Text Strings of Fate [KH AU]

Nisie · December 4, 2011

Disclaimer : I don't own Kingdom Hearts

Chapter 1 : Twins

“Roxas, I need to tell you something.”

“…What is it father?”

“You’re…「」”

“…Eh?”

———— 10 Years Later ————-

“Roxas!” Called a playful voice. That voice belonged to Ventus. His older twin. Although Roxas disliked that fact. He was always confused with his feelings. He couldn’t understand what he felt towards Ventus, or Ven as he called him. Ven loved him as a brother. For some reason, Roxas couldn’t see Ven as a brother. Merely just someone who had the same face as him.

“What is it, Ven?” He asked coldly, waiting for the other boy to catch up. “Why did you left me! I told you I want to go together, right?” Ven pouted. Roxas only replied with a cold look. “Because you’re still sleeping, and I don’t want to be late. This is our first day in Highschool.” He said before simply walked away from his twin.

”I- I was too excited that I couldn’t sleep well last night.” Well, that was a lie. For some reason Ven has been sleeping longer and longer than he usually take. Roxas was waiting for him to wake up that morning. However, his entire attempts to wake the boy were futile. Ven kept sleeping, and that made Roxas decided to leave him be. To give him more rest, hoping that if he did that, Ven wouldn’t sleep for too long.

“How childish.” He commented. Which amused the older twin. It was fun teasing Ven anyways.

“Don’t give me that look. I’m older you know.” He replied.

“Yeah, so what?”

“You should have respected me more.”

“Hmph.”

“What was that for?!”

“Anyways, we should hurry. School’s going to start soon.” Roxas said as he started to run.

“What?!” Ven shouted, running as he glanced at his watch.

————————————————

“Huff… We made it!” Ven exclaimed with a tired smile. Roxas was next to him, also panting. “It seemed like we’re not in the same class, Ven.” He said as he examined the information board. At that Ven made a sad look, but as soon as Roxas stated that their class were next to each other, he returned to his cheerful mood.

“I’m glad that we’re still close although we’re separated.” He said as he took something out from his bag. “Here, you forgot to bring this with you.” He said as he gave Roxas a lunchbox.

Roxas was surprised with that. When did Ven made this anyway? He was sleeping, wasn’t he?

“I made this last night. Don’t worry, I’ve reheated it.” He said with a smile, then left for his class. “Well, I suppose we should go now?” He said as he took the stairs to where their classes were. Roxas smiled back at him. “You’ve always done the unnecessary thing.” He muttered before following his brother to his class.

It has been four years since their parent’s death. They said it was an accident. Their body was never found, but they were thought to be dead. Ever since then, the two were under Eraqus’s charge. Eraqus was the head-master of Radiant Light High-school. As well as Terra’s father. Terra was their adopted brother. However, only Ven looked at him as brothers.

They have lived together for four years. But now that they have reached high-school. They lived separately in a dormitory. But Ven and Roxas were able to share a room, thanks to Eraqus’s special permission.

“Name’s Sora! My favorite food is Paopu Fruit! Nice to meet you all! ” Said a cheerful boy sitting in front of him. Roxas hasn’t been paying attention to the introduction. He was surprised when the boy in front of him suddenly stood. For some reason, he could imagine Ven saying the same thing as him.

He could hear the teacher, his homeroom teacher, Vexen or whoever his name was called for the next student. Which happened to be him. “I’m Roxas…” He wondered what to say next. In the end, he couldn’t say anything and quickly sat down. The boy in front of him turned and examined his face. Which irritated Roxas a bit.

“…What?” He asked. The boy chuckled and scratched the back of his head. “Ah, I’m sorry. I thought I’ve seen your face before.” The brunette chuckled. “But maybe it’s just my imagination.” He added.

“… Maybe you saw my twin brother, Ven. He’s in other class.” Roxas muttered.

“I see, that might be so! I’m Sora, nice to meet you..uh…” He introduced again, but then panicked as he couldn’t remember Roxas’s name.

“It’s Roxas.” He replied coldly. It has no effect to Sora, though. “Heh, Nice to meet you, Roxas!” He grinned. This boy was a splitting image of Ven. It’s Ironic, even though Roxas was Ven’s twin, this boy matched the position more perfect than him.

Their first day went quick. There were no lessons yet. Only explanation of rules, vision and mission. Roxas paid no attention to everything the teacher said. He already knew everything. It’s written in their Junior’s Agenda. Which was apparently given to every juniors when they first entered the school.

Next period was the ridiculous lesson, or so Roxas called it. They were supposed to collect every teacher’s sign and at least 15 seniors. Collecting the teacher’s signs were easy. All he had to do is come to the teacher’s room and ask every one of them. For the seniors, this is where the ridiculous part takes. They have to do the tasks the senior asks them before getting their signs.

Ven already got two from Terra and Aqua. Which happen to be his closest friends. Aqua was Terra’s girlfriend. Although, Ven must do several things Terra told him to do. Ven was, apparently asked to call them with “Big Brother” Terra and “Big Sister” Aqua.

The two didn’t hesitate to give their signs to Roxas, though. They didn’t even bother pulling pranks on him. Which saved him, and amused Ven even more. He could still hear Ven shouting unfair when he bumped into a red-haired senior. “Oh? Are you a junior?” He asked. Roxas examined him answering him with a simple ‘yes’.

“I see, well, do you want my handsign?” He offered.

“…No thanks.”

“Whaa? You’re one unique boy, you know! Most juniors are desperate finding signs now and you don’t want a free one?” The red haired laughed. “Heh, name’s Axel. A-X-E-L. Got it memorized?” He said before stealing Roxas’s junior agenda and signed it.

“Roxas, huh? I’ll get it memorized. Until we meet again then.” He said as he examined the book, and returned it to Roxas.

“…What a blatant person.” He muttered before taking his leave.

The next period was lunchtime. Yup, best period ever. He took out the lunchbox Ven gave him and opened it. Revealing a well cooked meal. “…It’s good.” He commented as he tasted it.

His next period was a tour around the school. It seemed like each class has different schedule. Which means, Ven might already got the tour. Not like it mattered. The person guiding them for the tour was a senior. Demyx or so his name is. He explained every little bit about the school. Even the place where he used to hide when he skipped class.

This school was bigger than he thought. He never knew his step-father would be ruling over such a big school. Nothing interested him but one part of the school. The ice stand. He just couldn’t resist buying that tasty looking sea-salt ice cream. He always had a thing for the salty ice-cream. Although a little salty, it’s also tasty. He knew he had to buy it after school.

Too bad that their last period, was a speech about appropriate attitudes from Xemnas. The most confusing teacher ever. Or so Roxas thought. His words didn’t even connect to each other. He was confusing alright. ‘…Damn… If this continues, the ice-cream will get sold-out.’ He thought.

And he was right.

His class was the last to get out, and the sea-salt ice cream was sold out. He frowned at the situation and just stared blankly at the closed ice-cream stand. ‘Damn that Xemnas…’ He thought as he pictured him beating up the said teacher. His concentration was blurred when something cold and salty met his lips. It was the sea-salt ice cream. Ven was holding it, he placed it on his lips.

“Thought you’ll want this.” He chuckled as he ate his own sea-salt ice cream. “…heh.” He smiled as he accepted the ice cream and ate it happily as they went home together.

------------------------------------------------

And there you have it. It's been a long time since I posted something. This one is gonna be long, I warn you.

Thank you for reading

Hunter Hawk · December 4, 2011

I love it!!! I always liked your stories and that one seems very interesting.

I also like how you put kingdom hearts characters in the story! Xemnas as a teacher? Wonder what he will teach others (my guess - theory about the hearts).

Don't ever stop writing, your stories rock!

Can't wait for the next chapter!!!

Nisie · December 5, 2011

Aww, thank you Hawkie Q___Q My one and only reviewers from all the time

Let here be chapter 2.

A/N: I don’t own Kingdom Hearts or any of their characters.

Chapter 2 : Naminé

It was their second day yet he couldn’t see Ven around. Was he up early?

With that on thought he walked out from their shared bedroom to the living room + kitchen. Yes, each dorm room consist of one small bedroom (with capacity of 2 beds), one bathroom and one kitchen. Although small, everything could fit in perfectly. There were no extra rooms because of it though.

Leaving the room, Roxas could found Ven, already up and dressed in their uniform cooking something. Probably another lunchbox. “Ven? What are you doing?” He called. The other boy was surprised and quickly looked back at his twin. “Ah? I’m making lunch for us. Do you want to add something else?” He asked. Roxas thought for a second before deciding. “…fishball.” He blushed before heading to shower. “Okay, fishball it is, then.” Ven smiled before preparing the ingredients.

School started almost similar to yesterday. What they had to do was only running to some seniors and get their hand sign. Almost every student had finished collecting the teacher’s sign. The only problems were the seniors. For sometimes they gave them impossible task. Although some were kind enough, or maybe don’t care to give their hand signs for free.

He was lucky to bump into Sora and his friends. He didn’t know how, but Sora has befriended lots of seniors, and most of the junior students. Perhaps it was because of his personality that people came to like him. With help from Sora’s friends, he got lots of senior signs. Wakka, Aerith, Leon, Tifa, Cloud, Sephiroth, Mulan, Belle, Ariel, Jasmine and Alladin. Counted with Ven’s friends (which he didn’t remember when his twin befriended them), Hercules, Cinderella, and Aurora he only needs a few more to complete his agenda.

Along with Axel, Terra and Aqua’s sign, he got 17 handsigns now. Only three more.

“What do you mean you don’t want to sign our agenda?!” Shouted a male’s voice. The boy seems to be a junior, seeing how he carried that agenda around. Behind him were two other juniors. One which is a girl. “It means what it means. You guys were not good enough.” Another boy, which seemed slightly older than the first laughed at the trio. There were three other students behind him. A tough-gorilla like boy, a mysterious girl and a short male wearing strange hat.

“Come on, Hayner. Let’s just go.” The girl behind the junior begged as she held his shoulder. Trying so hard holding the boy’s temper down. “Olette’s right, Hayner. There are still other seniors.” The other boy, a fat but sharp eyed boy held his other side. Also trying to stop him from punching the seniors.

“I can’t accept it. After all we’ve done for them!” The furios boy, Hayner glared at the taller boy. “Oh, come on. You guys don’t deserve our hand sings anyways.” The taller mocked. “We what?!” Hayner shouted before Roxas cut them off in the line.

“Hey!” He yelled at them. The two leader looked at him with annoyed looks. “What?!” The two shouted in resonance, which angered them even more.

“Well, I saw you fighting. I just have a suggestion. How about a struggle match?” He suggested. “If his team won, you must give them your signs. If you won, however… well, you decide.” He added as he walked to the junior’s side.

“Heh, you said you’re challenging me? Fine. As for if I won, how about you guys became my slave for the year?” He challenged.

“Fine, we accept!” The junior’s team leader accepted. Which made the other two panics. “H-hayner!” The girl, Olette creeped out. “Are you sure? We’re going to be their slave for the year if we lose!” The fatter one asked. But the fiery boy’s eyes didn’t show fear at all.

“Don’t worry, we’ll win this.” He said to them before looking at Roxas. “Hey, what’s your name?” He asked. “I’m Roxas.” He introduced. Strangely, he didn’t feel wrong with them. It’s like they were destined to be friends. “Roxas, huh? I’m Hayner. Nice to meet ya’” He said as he punched his shoulder lightly.

“I’m Pence.” The fatter one introduced. “And I’m Olette.” The girl smiled.

“Well, let’s go then, Roxas?” He asked as he grinned at the blond. “Yeah!” He replied with a smile before running to the school’s grounds.

“Well, here are the rules. Those who fell first became the loser. Are you ready? Let’s Struggle!” The referee, which happens to be Pence, blew the whistle. Signing the start of the match. Hayner has teamed up with Roxas while the other boy, whose name he learned to be Seifer teamed up with his underlings, Vivi, the boy with weird hat.

The match seemed to taken up audience. At which Ven, Terra and Aqua got interested in and decided to saw the match before Ven freaked out seeing his twin struggled in the match. “Roxas?!” He shouted as he watched the match.

Defeating Seifer were easy. But that Vivi was unexpectedly strong. Both team were down with one now that Hayner got a finishing blow from Vivi. “Hayner!” Roxas shouted. “I’m fine. Just concentrate on winning. Our lives’ in your hand now, Roxas!” The boy shouted back. At that Roxas nodded and concentrated in winning the match. However, Vivi was fast. He was also small that Roxas had trouble hitting him.

“ Behind you!” Shouted a voice. That voice was familiar. Yeah, it was Ven’s.

At his voice, he quickly reacted and blocked the smaller boy’s moves with his struggle bat. He quickly countered and finally made the smaller down.

“YEAAAAHHH!!!!” The crowd cheered. It seemed like they have attracted more attentions than they thought they would.

“Amazing Roxas! You really beat them!” Hayner shouted as he went to the boy and congratulate him. The other two, Pence and Olette did the same. Their face painted with happiness. “I guess I’m just lucky.” He replied with a small smile.

“Roxas!” Ven shouted as he approached him as well. “That was a Gr-“ Then something happened. Everything stopped. The time has stopped. No one moved but him. Not even Ven, who was about to say something to him before the time stopped.

“What’s happening? Ven? Hayner? Pence, Olette?” He yelled. But none replied to him. They just froze there. “Roxas.” A feminine voice called. A girl, probably a junior as well approached him. She has blond hair and pale white skin. Her appearance matched that of an angel. She was beautiful.

“…Who are you? What’s happening here? What happened to everyone?! ” He yelled at her. She smiled at him and put a finger on his lips. “Don’t worry, everyone will be alright. Come with me, and I’ll explain everything.” She said to him as she walked away.

“…Ven…Hayner, Pence, Olette…” He muttered their name before following the girl.

To his surprise, the girl led him into a white room that he didn’t even knew exist in the school. It was hidden behind a bookshelf in a library. Somehow, everything around them was frozen. Nothing moved. Not even a fly. It’s stuck there even though it’s still flying.

“Naminé! You’re late!” Called a familiar voice. That cheerful voice may only belong to someone. The first boy he met in his first day.

“I’m sorry, Sora. I brought Roxas with me.” She said to him. It was him, it was Sora. But not just Sora, even Terra and Aqua were there. Along with a silver haired boy, and a Maroon haired girl. Last but not least, his and Ven’s adopted father were there. Eraqus was there. They all looked excited to see Roxas coming in.

“Father?” He muttered as he saw his adopted father, as well as the head-master standing before him with his steady and strong appearance. “Roxas… So faith has turned its wheel, huh?” The man muttered before approaching him and placed his hands on Roxas’s shoulder. “Listen carefully, Roxas. You’re about to unveil the truth. Keep strong, Roxas.” He said before he walked away.

The girl, Naminé, approached him and held one of his hands. “…Roxas, Good luck.” She said before suddenly, a bright light flashed before him. Blinding him.

As he opened his eyes, he found out that he wasn’t in the white room anymore. He was standing on a stained glass. A green one with his picture on it. Sleeping peacefully. “…Where am I?” He muttered as he looked around. Nothing, everything were pitch black.

He couldn’t feel anything until three light orbs appeared out of nowhere. It soon formed into three different things. A Staff, a Sword, and a Shield. “…Am I supposed to take it?” He muttered to himself before approaching the floating sword. The sword soon disappeared and transformed into a key-looking sword. It’s held was golden yellow, it’s blade and its teeth were silver. The teeth of the blade had a form of a crown. In the end of the hilt was a keychain in the shape of a mouse’s head.

There was another light coming, this time a door stood before him. Followed up with a voice he couldn’t hear, yet understood.

“Be careful.” Said the voice. It’s like words appearing in his mind. He didn’t hear any sound, but it felt like it was spoken by someone close to him. “Beyond that door lies a completely different world… But don’t be afraid. Don’t stop walking…” The voice said

Don’t stop walking? He thought. But then decided to brush it off and exited through the door.

He has returned to the white room.

“How’s it, Roxas?” Asked Sora, who looked at him with his usual grin. “What do you mean?” He asked back. “Huh? Don’t you feel excited? You’re about to hold the strongest weapon of all.” He said.

“Said someone who didn’t want to bear it at first.” Riku added.

“Hey, I changed, okay?”

“Whatever. At the very least he wasn’t terrified like you was.”

“Riku!” Sora charged at him. But was stopped by Kairi.

“Come on you two. Can’t you give Roxas some space?” She said as she stood between the two, stopping the fight.

“Are you okay?” Naminé asked with a worried face. “…What’s that all about?” He asked back. He was okay, but that doesn’t mean that he’s in top condition. He had just seen something unthinkable. How could he be fine? He wished it was all a dream. After all, he was supposed to be mocking Seifer of his victory right now.

“Roxas, you are chosen as a keyblade-wielder. Come with us, it’s better to see with your own eyes.” She said as she took Roxas’s arm and led him out of the room. The others following but Eraqus.

He was led back to where the struggle battle was held. He could still see everyone frozen. Time has not moved, it seems.

“So, where is it, Naminé?” Sora asked, his hands placed behind his head. The girl let go of Roxas’s arms and then concentrated. “It should uncover itself soon enough. We’re close to it. Be careful.” She said before looking at Roxas again. “Be careful, Roxas.” She said as she walked away from the commotion. Kairi following her.

“Good luck, guys!” Kairi cheered from afar.

“What’s the meaning of this? What’s going to hap-“ Before Roxas could finish, a strange aura enveloped them. The source coming from Vivi’s direction. A white doll thing appeared. It suddenly multiplied and attacked them. Everyone but Roxas quickly summoned their keyblade. Everyone had different shapes. Terra has his Ends of the Earth summoned. Aqua has her Stormfall, Riku with his Way to the Dawn, and Sora with Kingdom Key. At which Roxas found himself confused. Unaware that the white dolls were approaching him.

“Roxas! Use the Keyblade!” Naminé shouted. He quickly looked up and put his hands in front of him to defend him from the monster. He closed his eyes, yet he felt no pain. He stood there for a second, and opened his eyes closely. On his hands were two keyblades. The first one illuminates a really bright light with a wing shaped grip and star shaped teeth. The other were as dark as shadow with a devilish wing as its grip and chain along the blade.

“Is this… Keyblade?” He muttered before the white monster thing flew around him. They came out and all attacked at once. However, Roxas was a better battler. He quickly slid away from them and made a reversal attack. A counter attack. He quickly got to their behind and attacked them with his weapon. Strangely, it felt like he was born to wield that weapon. Keyblade.

Soon enough, all of the monsters were defeated. Defeating them was quite easy. A few slashes and they were done for. That was what he thought. Until a big one appeared. This big one, however didn’t attack and instead, it flew elsewhere. Leaving the school ground and into the rooftop. As if challenging them.

The five of them, Terra, Aqua, Riku, Sora and Roxas followed the monster to the rooftop. This big one has tentacles around its neck, and instantly disabled both Terra and Riku with its spell. The spell has locked both their arms and legs to prevent them from moving. Luckily Aqua and Sora were still around to help him fight.

This giant monster, although big could move around as if it bears no weight. It waved its giant arms and made a brutal hit towards them. Aqua kept casted cure on the two while Sora tried his best to attack the monster. Roxas tried to do the same, however, due to his inexperience; he wasn’t able to deliver much damage.

“Roxas, behind you!” Sora shouted. But it was too late. The same spell has been casted upon him. He found himself bound by the spell, unable to move. The big monster approached him and aimed his punch at him.

“Roxas!”

As everyone shouted, Roxas managed to throw his body to the side, and countered the attack with the Keyblade. Resulting the monster to run away from him. However, that monster was still aiming at him. This time, he grabbed the boy and threw him up to the sky. It was weird, but he could feel the familiarity when doing this. It’s as if this wasn’t his first time.

Quickly as he fell, he hit the monster’s head with his keyblade, which happened to be the monster’s weakness. With one single blow, the monster disappeared to white ashes.

Then, as the monster was defeated, time continued to move. “You did it, Roxas!” Sora shouted. The cheerful boy ran to him and hugged him like a little kid. “That was a great battle!” Sora praised. For a flash, he saw Ven saying the exact word. That’s right. What did Ven wanted to say to him again?

“We should go back. It would be hard to explain the situation if you’re gone from the scene, Roxas.” Riku advised. Roxas was the winner of the Struggle battle. It would be weird to find him suddenly disappearing.

Nodding, he ran back to the School’s ground. Hayner and the others were there, waiting for him. However, their face didn’t show the happiness he thought they would. “Roxas! Where did you go, man? You suddenly disappeared!” Hayner said, half angry half worried. Pence came and gave him his agenda, already signed by Seifer’s team.

“Sorry, guys. Something came up and… Well, I had to go for a while. What happened?” He asked. The three of them went quiet for a second before telling him the truth.

“It’s about your brother, Ventus, he…”

“…What?”

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whoops, I ended it there Because I'm evil.

Hunter Hawk · December 8, 2011

Aaaaaaaa! You sure are evil!!!! I wanna know what happends next!!!

Sorry, for late comment. I've been pretty busy this week. Anyway, don't ever stop writing, your stories rock.

Nisie · December 12, 2011

I forgot to warn people that this story ships Rokunami and SorKai. .-. Hope you don't mind shippings.

Chapter 3 : Answers

“It’s about your brother, Ventus, he…”

“…What?”

“He suddenly collapsed, Roxas. Zack already brought him to the infirmary, but I think you should check on him soon.” Hayner ended his story. Soon after, the blond boy bolted to the said place. His heart racing. He didn’t understand why he felt so scared, and confused. Just what happened to Ven?

“VEN!” He screamed his lung out as he reached the infirmary. Within the room were a sleeping Ven and Zack, whom was waiting for him. “Hey.” Zack, another Ven’s friend, greeted as he smiled to him. “Don’t worry. The school nurse said that he’s just exhausted.” He smiled then stood from where he sat, handing over the chair to Roxas.

Roxas kept quiet as he watched his twin. He was sleeping peacefully. Like what he saw in the stained glass back then. Now that he thought about it, was it really him? Or was it Ven?

Terra and Aqua arrived shortly after Roxas entered the room. Both of them wore their panicked face as they saw Ventus lying asleep on the bed. The two rushed to Ven’s side and examined his condition before Zack explained the situation to them. “I see. Thank goodness, Ven.” Aqua muttered as she stroke the unconscious boy’s hair.

“It doesn’t seem that he will wake up soon, we should take him home.” Terra advised as he volunteered to carry the boy back to the dorm. Roxas couldn’t say anything but to agree. That might be the best way.

In the end, Ven didn’t wake up through the night, nor the day after. That was the first time Roxas went to school without Ven. Nor with the lunchbox Ven made. “…So much happened yesterday.” He said before yawning. He couldn’t get enough sleep. His mind was filled with the monsters, keyblade, and worries about Ventus that he couldn’t stop watching his twin’s steady breathing.

“Good Morning, Rox!” Sora greeted cheerfully before his face turned to concern. “…How’s Ven doing?” He asked.

“He’s still sleeping. He didn’t show any fever or anything, though. So, I think he’s fine.” He said. Truthfully, he didn’t want to leave Ven alone. However, knowing Ven, the boy would feel guilty if he skipped school.

“Well, Naminé asked me to tell you something.” Sora said before walking to his seat and sat down. Roxas following behind him. “She said to meet you at the art room at break time.” He smirked.

“What’s with the smirk?” Roxas asked, half annoyed.

“Oh, nothing.” He grinned.

Time passed rather quickly when you’re not paying attention to the teachers. Today’s lesson were about the curriculums and everything. Including the grades they needed to achieve to pass onto the next year. Of course, Roxas knew it all.

Today was the last day collecting signs. He wondered if Ven had finished his. After all, he skipped school today.

Lunch break. It’s the promised time. He better hurry to the art room. Naminé was waiting for him anyways.

“Naminé? You here?” He asked as he entered the art room. Within the room was Namine, holding her sketchbook and drew something on it with crayons. The drawing, however… looked like what a kindergarten would draw.

“Roxas, you came.” She greeted with a smile before motioning him to sit on the other side of the table. The art room was still clean. No paints or canvas. Only completed drawings hung on the walls. Of course, the club season hasn’t started.

“I thought I need to give a proper explanation to you. About everything happened yesterday, about those monsters, and the keyblades.” She said as she stopped drawing and showed him a painting of two monsters. One which he fought yesterday.

“Roxas, you are chosen by the keyblade. You’re a keyblade wielder. The same goes for the people you fought with yesterday. They too, are keyblade wielders.” She explained as Roxas listened carefully. There was a slight disappointment in his heart, yet he let it slip. He didn’t knew why he felt like that, though.

“Once, there was a man named Ansem who ruled this land. He and his apprentices were conducting a research of the realm of light, and the other side. They intended on making a ‘window’ to see the other world. For they believed that there are other worlds aside this one.” She paused then pointed at the monster drawings she drew.

“The one you fought yesterday, Roxas, they belong to that world Ansem was researching. They are called Nobodies. This one also belongs to that world, but you are yet to meet them.” She said as she pointed at the black monster.

“Ansem knew that he made a mistake as the window he created turned out to be a ‘door’ instead. And so, he created a weapon to destroy these monsters. That is, the keyblade you wielded.” She said as she flipped the page and showed him a drawing of keyblade. The very first one he saw. The kingdom key.

“These keyblades, however can only be wielded by few chosen people. You are one of them, Roxas. And so are the others.” She said then flipped the page back to the monster drawings.

“These monsters, what are they after? And why does time stopped when they appear?” He asked.

“These monsters are creatures made of evil intentions. Ansem said that they are well attracted to living beings. That is, beings with emotions. It is assumed by Ansem that their motives are people’s hearts. Also, time did not stop, Roxas. It’s actually just moving slowly. Very slowly. That is another thing Ansem made for us. Also, it only happens in this school.” She said.

“In…this school? What do you mean?”

“Roxas, this school, or should I say this land once belong to Ansem. This was where his castle was once. Upon spotting those monsters, he immediately sealed his own castle. And that made a protective program upon this land. Whenever these monsters showed up, a barrier shall be made, and that a protective spell shall be casted upon this land. And then only keyblade bearers may move around.”

“…The spell to slow time.” He muttered.

“Correct. Also, these monsters don’t appear outside this school.” She added.

“I see. What about the other one? You mentioned there are two kinds of monsters back there? I only saw the white one yesterday.” He asked again as he eyed on the black creature on her painting.

“Yes. This one is called Heartless. They are the other side of the nobodies.”

“The other side?”

“Yes, Heartless are evil creatures thirst for human’s heart. They are also born from the hearts of people who lost their heart. Nobodies are what become of a human who lost their heart. Or so said in Ansem’s reports.” She said as she handed him a scrapped piece of paper. “It’s hand-written by Ansem himself.” She added.

Roxas examined the paper, then sighed. “Why me? There are other peoples out there. Why does the keyblade chose me?” He asked.

“…That, I don’t know. The keyblades can be inherited from a keyblade master to their apprentices if they have potentials. Sir.Eraqus is one of these masters. He inherited it to Terra and Aqua. Terra has chosen Riku as his successor. Aqua accidentally did that to my cousin, Kairi. As for Sora, we found him in a similar situation like yours. He’s able to move around, even the spell has been activated. ” She smiled.

“But…I can’t summon the keyblade until I met you.”

“It is bound to happen, Roxas. The keyblade has chosen you, and you can’t change that. When we found Sora, he was already wielding the keyblade. He went through the same thing you went through. You saw it, don’t you? The place with the stained glass?” She asked.

Of course he remembered that. Did that happen to everyone? Was he really unable to run from his fate?

“…What about you? Where did you got yours? You own a keyblade too, don’t you?” He asked back, trying to change the topic. Seeing how he didn’t want to talk about what will happen to him.

“No, I don’t own a keyblade.” She shook her head then looked down.

“Eh? But… you just said that only a keyblade bearer could…”

“That’s because I have this.” She said as she showed a star-shaped charm to Roxas. “This has also been programmed by Ansem. This allows me to move when the spell is intact.” She smiled then puts it back to her pocket.

“Why would you do that?” He asked in surprise.

“What do you mean?” She returned with a confused look.

“Well, if you don’t have that, everything will move just normally, right? So, why bother?” He asked as he looked down. Now he felt very ashamed. “Why did you get yourself involved in this?”

“…Roxas, no one wanted this to happen. Ansem is at fault, and he had tried his hard to stop everything until his death. Sir.Eraqus, Terra,Aqua, Riku, Kairi, and Sora, they are trying their best to stop everything. How could I back down from their hardwork? Besides… I’m already involved ever since the start.” She looked down before taking a deep breath.

“Roxas, I am Ansem’s daughter.” She confessed. “I am bound to this. I’m just like you, and everyone else. I can’t run from this, no. I mustn’t run from this. Face the truth, that’s the option I have chosen.” She said with a smile. Roxas couldn’t say anything but to listen to the young girl’s explanation. She, whom he thought as a fragile angel, quieter than those of a mouse, had a very brave heart.

“Naminé…” He muttered slowly before lifting his face up with a determined look. “…Thanks.” He said with a smile. He’s already part of this. He couldn’t back down. He’s needed. “I was… confused, back then. Sorry. Sorry for being so…pathetic.” He apologized. Then she smiled.

“No, I’m sorry. It was my father’s fault that you’re involved in this, but… Thank you, Roxas.” She smiled again.

Then the bell rang. It warned them that they only have 10 minutes until the next class.

“Wha? It’s this time already? Damn, if I don’t hurry there won’t be anything left at the cafeteria!” Roxas shouted as he suddenly stood up. Due to Ven’s condition, he hadn’t had the time to make his own lunchbox. Nor did Ven made one for him. He’s left with the cafeteria food.

“E-eh? Don’t you bring a lunchbox, Roxas? I mean, Sora said that you always bring a lunchbox, so I called you at lunchtime… I thought you won’t need to go to the cafeteria…I’m sorry…” She said with an apologetic look. She seemed to be really regretting her actions that she looked like she wanted to cry.

“It’s not your fault. I agreed to came, didn’t I?” He tried to cheer her up before she clapped her hand and turned to reach for something in her bag. “I almost forgot!” She said as she showed him a packed bento.

“Kairi said that she’ll have lunch with Sora. So she didn’t take her bento. Would you like to eat it?” She offered. There are two lunchboxes in the package. One which seemed to be Naminé’s.

“Can I?” He asked as she nodded happily. He then took a seat and took the lunchbox from her. “Thanks.” He said before trying a bite. Unfortunately, it tasted worse than how it looked.

“…Naminé? I’m sorry to ask, but...how exactly did you cook this?” He asked with a really pained face. He tried his best not to show it. But he just couldn’t help it. The rice ball was so hard to chew and… too sour for goodness’s sake.

“Eeh? But I only added soy-sauce…” Naminé said with an apologetic look. ‘She must be mistaken the soy-sauce with vinegar…’ He thought as he chewed another on another one. “Oh! You don’t have to eat it… It’s bad after all…” She said as she looked down, covering her face with her bangs.

“…It’s fine. I’m hungry, so everything tastes good now.” He said as he devoured everything quickly. “Oh? This one is good.” He said as he showed her a half-burnt sausage. She smiled slightly at that.

“…Actually, I don’t know how to cook.” She confessed again. “Kairi is always better than me. Even after she taught me, I still make lots of mistakes. I… I don’t know. Everything I touch burns…” She muttered to him.

“Don’t worry, you’re still learning.” He chuckled. “I’m sure, you’ll get better at this soon.” He smiled at her. She blushed upon hearing him, then looked down again, this time, her cheeks red as cherries. “W-will you…” She muttered quietly. “Will you, try it again? My cooking…” She muttered as she looked at him with a shy face.

His face flushed a bit at her shyness, then looked away. “O-of course.” He answered.

She flushed happily.

“I’m home.” He said as he reached his home. He couldn’t stop thinking about today’s lunchbreak. Although he didn’t really know why he couldn’t. His thought made him didn’t realize that the light was lit.

“Welcome back, Roxas.” Ven greeted from the sofa.

“Ven?!” He shouted as he ran to his twin, whom jerked in surprise seeing his brother’s sudden movement.

“Are you okay? How are you feeling? Have you eat? I’m sorry I left-“ He was stopped by Ven.

“I’m okay, Roxas. I just… I don’t know. I suddenly felt dizzy before passing out. When I came to, it was already noon.” He chuckled. Roxas then checked up Ven’s temperature. It did seem normal, though.

“Anyways, where did you go, Roxas? It’s rare for you to come home this late.” He asked as he checked the clock. It was six already.

“I-I uh…” He stopped. He can’t say that he was with Sora and the others, learning the basic of holding a keyblade. He desperately looked for a bluff until Ven stroke his hair. “You had fun with your friends?” Ven asked. At which Roxas can only said yes. “That’s good, Roxas.” He smiled. Roxas can only look down. He never thought that lying to Ven would be this… painful.

“Oh, there’s something I forgot to tell you.” He said, Roxas could hear him mutter something about him fainting among the process.

“That was a great match, Roxas.” He smiled.

Roxas couldn’t help but look away. His heart guilty and hurt.

----

Thank you for reading. X3

Nisie · December 21, 2011

Chapter 4 ::

It was nighttime. Ven had gone to bed after their dinner. Even though he said he was completely recovered, Roxas could still feel the slight exhausted tone in his words. Which made him send Ven off to bed soon after dinner and let him clean the rest.

He waited and waited.

It was 11 at night when he heard a beep from his cellphone. It was a text from Sora.

[Meeting at Rooftop on 12. See ya guys!]

Roxas quickly let the phone slid into his pocket before he checked Ven’s condition. His twin was deep in sleep. He smiled gladly at that, and then left secretly without making any noise. He locked the door and then quickly left the dorm.

“I’m here.” He said as he reached the rooftop. Naminé was the first one to greet him. Almost everyone was there, only Riku and Eraqus were absent.

“Riku and the master are in the base. You remember, right? The one at the library.” Terra explained as Aqua filled him in. “Riku is researching Ansem’s reports, so he don’t help us often. Me and Riku often change shifts. So you won’t see us very often. The master had to stay, because he’s monitoring everything.”

“Apparently there are more hidden writings than the one I showed you this morning, Roxas. So Riku is staying in the library in case there are more hidden ones.” Naminé said as again she held his hand. “Good luck, Roxas.” She said to him.

“Naminé, how come you never say good luck to me?” Sora said, protesting as Roxas blushed. “But, Sora, don’t you have Kairi to…” She wasn’t able to finish her words when Kairi butted in. “Naminé!” She pouted, then looked at Sora with a murderous look.

“I-I’m sorry, Kairi! I was just joking! No! Stop that! That’s a keyblade! Kairi!” Sora shouted as he ran away from Kairi’s chase. Terra and Aqua just chuckled, commenting on how they looked adorable together.

“…That reminds me. Kairi also hold a keyblade, right? Why didn’t she join the fight yesterday?” Roxas asked. The other blonde looked down. She seemed like she was about to explain, but she refrained herself from doing so.

“It’s…because of me…” She muttered. Her voice very quiet that Roxas had a hard time to listen to her. “It’s…because I’m…” Again, she was unable to finish her words.

“It’s because I want to be with her.” Kairi stated, behind her was a half-beaten, half-burnt Sora. She approached the blonde and head-butted her on the head. “I’m here because I want to be here, Naminé. You’re precious to me, and to everyone else. That’s why I’ll always be by your side. So… don’t blame yourself.” She said with a smile. “Besides, I believe that without me, everyone will do fine. Right, Sora? You have my charm after all.” She said as she smiled to Sora, whom smiled back at her.

She then looked at Roxas and gave him a murderous look. In which Roxas wondered what he did wrong.

“I won’t forgive you if you make her cry.” She stated before looked away.

‘Wha? What’s that? A declaration of…war?’ He thought before he saw Sora approaching.

“Naminé has a special ability. She can tell where the heartless or nobody will come. However, she is unable to wield the keyblade. That’s why Kairi stayed with her, in case anything happens.” Sora whispered to him. That makes sense now.

-----

“There’s something I forgot to tell you.” Naminé said, right before Roxas returned to his class.

“Don’t tell anyone about this. Not even your brother.” She stated as she wrapped up the lunchbox. “And… look at your cellphone tonight.” She said, ending their conversation before returning to her own class.

-----

“Say, Sora.” Roxas called as he watched the starry night. “What are we supposed to do here?” He asked, still oblivious to what’s going to happen.

“You’ll know soon enough.” Sora said with a grin. And he was right. Naminé has detected something coming from the sky. It seems to be getting closer and closer.

“Get your keyblade ready, Roxas!” Sora yelled in excitement as he drew his Kingdom Key while Roxas his Oathkeeper and Oblivion. As he shouted, three figures appear at the shine of the moon. Each carrying a similar figure without wings with them. As they reached the school, each of them dropped the figures they were carrying, revealing them to be Heartless.

“Here they comes, let’s go everyone!” Sora yelled as he charged into the heartless. Naminé and Kairi had secured themselves far behind and close to the stairs. Aqua backing them up with her spells and Terra, being Terra, just charge on his enemies like some kind of rhinoceros or something.

Roxas, being a more collected fighter than Sora decided not to get too close to the enemy and strike them from behind. So far, his strategy was doing well. That was until the three flying heartless called for their friend. Five more air soldiers came with each carrying their cousin, the soldier with them.

Again, they dropped the reinforcement to attack.

“If we don’t do something about those flying heartless, it won’t end!” Aqua shouted as she casted her spell on the flying heartless. Too bad the flying heartless were faster than her magic. The air soldier then hovered, before quickly flew down and strike on Aqua.

“Aqua!” Terra shouted. He quickly dashed to her aide. Blocking the next air soldier aiming at her. “I’m okay. Heal!” She shouted as she casted a magic to heal herself.

They have managed to defeat all of the soldier heartless, however, none of their attacks can reach the hovering soldiers. And they seem to be mocking them. Which angered Sora even more.

“If only he’s here…” Aqua muttered. In which caught Roxas’s attention. “Riku?” He asked. Aqua suddenly panicked and answered his question. “N-no, It’s… the Master! Yeah! Master Eraqus. I was hoping for Master Eraqus, right, Terra?” She asked as she looked at him with a begging face. Terra, also hesitating nodded with a slightly panicked look.

“Y-yeah! Of course!” Terra replied. Roxas was about to question them further, but he was wise enough to let them go. The fight still goes on and he didn’t want to abandon Sora just like that.

“Damn it. We can’t win if we stayed on the ground…!” Sora stated as he realized something. He started yelling and then threw his keyblade into the air. Performing a strike raid move. Surprisingly, it hits, although barely. “Hey, it works!” Sora shouted as he caught his keyblade back.

“Nice move, Sora!” Kairi cheered from behind before she noticed a change of expression on her senior’s face.

Both Terra and Aqua stared blankly at Sora, as if remembering something. But then they quickly broke away from their thought and continue their attacks. With Aqua casting thunder at the sliding down air soldiers and Terra charging at whoever got electrocuted by Aqua.

“Roxas! You should try throwing your keyblade to the air too! Trust me, it works! And besides, you got two with you, so it’ll double the damage…” He quieted down. Roxas was staring blankly at the sky where the air soldiers were panicking. “Roxas? Are you okay?” Sora called with a worried expression on his face.

But the blonde replied with a smile.

The air around him started to move. It’s as if Roxas was controlling them. He smiled kindly at the change of wind and then threw his keyblades. The movement was similar to Sora. However, they didn’t return immediately.

Instead, the wind was carrying his keyblades. They spun around and beat the heartless until nothing is left.

When the keyblade returned to him, Roxas returned to his senses. “Huh? Wh-what just happened?” He muttered to himself as he examined his keyblades. The wind no longer linger around him.

“Ama~zing! Roxas! How did you do that?! That was amazing Roxas! Brilliant!” Sora yelled as he ran to him and glomped him down. Kairi and Naminé soon approached them with smiles on their face. “There are no more Heartless, we can rest now.” Naminé stated as she made another check with her ability.

Everyone was happy. But not Terra and Aqua. Both of them wear the sorrowful face. However, they managed to hid their expression before anyone noticed.

Eraqus soon appeared with Riku tagging along and thanked them for their hard work before they were all dismissed.

“You should go back. I thought I’d explain you everything tonight, but you’re tired enough. I’ll explain tomorrow in the art room… Oh…with the bento…as well.” Naminé said with a shy face before she disappeared along with Kairi and Aqua to the girl’s dorm. The girl’s dorm were on the other side of the boy’s dorm.

‘What was that power?’ Roxas thought as he clenched his fist. He can still feel the flow of energy coming from him. The flow that controlled the wind. He didn’t know where it came from, but it was there. It was definitely there. He just didn’t know how to control it.

“Well, see you later, Roxas! Terra!” Sora waved goodbye as he entered his and Riku’s room. Terra went to the room next to his as Roxas entered his own. He quickly get changed and then slumped into his own bed after taking another check on Ven. Which seemed to be still sleeping peacefully.

He smiled at the solitude.

---

Roxas woke up to find Ven already gone. He heard sound from the bathroom so he might be still in the shower. Just as he walked out from the room, Ven also came out from the shower. His face looked sad.

“Ven? What’s wrong?” He asked as he approached him. His older twin looked surprise hearing his voice. He was too deep in thought that he didn’t notice Roxas was already up. “Ah, Roxas, good morning.” He smiled before returning to that sad face. “It’s nothing, actually. I just… had a bad dream.” He said to him as he chuckled lightly.

“Bad dream? Like, nightmare?” He asked. But his twin only looked down. “…No, I think it’s a bad dream, but… I can’t seem to remember it.” He chuckled again before walking to the refrigerator to check on their supplies.

“Well, don’t think too much about it. It’s just a dream after all.” Roxas suggested before he went to take shower. “Oh, and Ven? You don’t have to make bento for me today.” He added as he went to the bathroom.

“…? Well, if you said so.” His older twin replied with a confused face as he prepared everything for school.

---

Today was the last day of the orientation session. It’s during this day that the seniors collected the junior agendas and checked if there’s anyone lacking off. He was glad that Ven was able to finish his. Terra had actually taken his junior agenda, and completed it for him. Those who don’t complete their agenda shall receive punishment. The punishment varies. It can be cleaning the toilet, squat jumps, or run for 10 laps.

The next activity is to have a tour of every clubs in the school. This school was big enough that it takes a lot of time visiting every clubs. Terra was in the Kendo club. What’s more, he’s the captain of it. It seems like no one is stronger than him in the club whilst Aqua is the captain of the archery club, adored by both boys and girls. Sadly, no one can approach her whenever Terra is around.

Sora and Riku has decided to join the blitzball club while Kairi signed up for the cheerleading team. Naminé, being Naminé has found her place in the art room.

It seemed to him that he was the only one who doesn’t have a club. Even Ven has found his place in the library. For some reason, he has a thing for books, and has already got signed up as a committee.

“Hey, Roxas? Have you decided on any clubs yet?” Hayner asked with a grin, a struggle bat on his hand. “No, have you?” He replied as he chuckled. It’s obvious that the boy has just joined the struggle team. And Roxas was right as he saw the boy grin and swirl his bat.

“Whaddya say, Roxas?” He asked as he pointed the handle of the Struggle bat at Roxas. The blonde smirked and pulled the bat from him. “Sounds fine to me.” He smirked. Then the two laughed. Unknown to him that Ven was watching him from afar, smiling as he watched Roxas laugh.

‘He’ll do fine… He’ll be alright.’ Ven thought as he walked away.

----

Thank you for reading. X3

[A/N : I'm just wondering... should I write everything simpler? Since... it seems like my writings are long and hard to read. .-.]

Hunter Hawk · December 21, 2011

You don't need to change it!!! I like the way you're using now and it's very readable. Keep up that style cuz I'm freaking loving it!!!

Nisie · December 24, 2011

Chapter 5

“It tastes better. You’re getting better at this.” He chuckled lightly as he tasted on Naminé’s lunchbox. She made an omelet today, and although it barely survived from the burn, it tasted slightly good.

She smiled happily as Roxas praised her cooking.

“ Say, about last night…” He muttered as he ate another bite. “The one we beat was Heartless, right?” He asked. Naminé nodded in response.

“Yes, you are right. Heartless were different than Nobodies. They are created from darkness that lurks at the other side of the door, which has been opened by Ansem. Heartless feeds on human’s hearts. When one’s heart is stolen, the empty body shall become a nobody. Roxas, do you remember what happened to Vivi, yesterday?” She asked.

He remembered, of course. In his struggle match, the boy suddenly emitted evil aura, and suddenly, the nobodies appear.

“…Vivi’s heart has been stolen by the Heartless. His body has turned into nobodies. However, by beating both the heartless and the nobody, Vivi has returned back to normal.” She explained.

“Heartless, they are made of darkness. That’s why they can only appear at night, and they appear every night. That is why we must have a night patrol every night.The nobodies, however, may appear at any time.” She said.

“You said that in order to return someone whose heart is stolen, you need to destroy both the heartless and the nobody?” He asked. He was slightly surprised when she said that they must come to school every single night. Then again, time was slowed down during the heartless’s appearance. Besides, it’s not like he could protest about it. She nodded and then explained. “The heartless that stole Vivi’s heart has been destroyed by Sora and the others.” She said with a smile.

“…Then, how did that happen? I mean, how did he have his heart stolen?” He asked again.

“The night before you got your keyblade, Vivi came to school, and… well, we didn’t know why. His heart has fallen to darkness already, and so the Heartless targeted him. By the time we managed to destroy the heartless, it was too late.”

“…So you waited until his nobodies appear?” He asked again before taking another bite of the lunch Naminé made.

“Yes.” She nodded.

“…Isn’t there any way to stop these Heartless? Where is that door Ansem created anyways?” He asked. This time, she shook her head.

“I’m sorry, even I don’t know. It’s only known that he created this door.” She replied.

“Was that why Riku stayed, yesterday? To look for clues?” He asked.

She nodded again and then explained. “It is unknown if whether Ansem hid the rest of the reports, or it is hidden within the ones we have found. That is why, Riku and Aqua were trying to look for clues in the reports we have.” She said, then looked down.

“…I’m sorry, if my father didn’t make that door, none of this would have happened.” She said with a guilty tone.

“…Naminé…” He muttered, and then sighed. “There… must be a reason for this.” He said. “Your father, he didn’t write anything about why he created such door.” He said. She can only remained silent. “So, there must be a reason. And you have to believe in him.” He said to her. She smiled in return. “Thank you, Roxas.” She muttered.

“You’re welcome.” He smiled.

-------------------

“…You looked happy, Roxas.” Ven commented when they decided to go home together. Last period was nothing but bunch of advices and comments from the seniors. Especially from the student council.

“Do not.” He said then looked away from Ven. Ven chuckled and then teased him. “What? Did you get someone you liked?” He asked.

Bull’s eye.

“O-of course not!” He denied. However, Ven knew him better than anyone else. “Oh, come on, you can tell your older brother, who is it?” He asked.

“W-what are you saying Ven?! Don’t make things up!” He said with a slight blush on his face.

“Hmm… is that why you didn’t want a lunchbox today? Did she made you a lunchbox? Such a kind girl you found, Roxas.” He teased again. Roxas could say nothing. His face completely red.

“Aww, my baby brother has finally grown up. I’m happy for you~” He grinned.

“Shut up, Ven!” He yelled with a blushing face.

“If you said so.” He chuckled. Then, he suddenly stopped walking.

“What’s wrong?” Roxas asked, Ven’s face paled. As if he saw a monster or something. Far away from them was a red-haired man walking with another man with blue hair. It was Axel.

“Axel? What’s wrong with him?” He asked Ven again. This time, Ven looked down and trembled slightly. “Ven? Are you okay?” Roxas tried again. Ven still won’t answer before he suddenly took Roxas’s hand and pulled him away from the place.

“Ven?! What’s wrong with you? Hey, let me go!” Roxas yelled as he tried to break free from Ven’s grip. But his brother just won’t let him. It was after they reached their dorm that Ven released his grip.

“…Really, what’s gotten into you? Why did you suddenly –“

“Don’t get near him, Roxas.” Ven stated.

“Huh? Do you mean Axel? I don’t think he’s-“ Again, he was cut off.

“Listen to me, Roxas.” Ven said with a cold tone. It was rare to see Ven like this. In fact, this might be his first of ever seeing one.

“Those guys, they’re bad news. Just… don’t get near them.” Ven muttered before entering their room.

“…If you said so.” Roxas said before following him in. Unable to decline his request.

That night, they spent their dinner in silence.

--------------------

“Ven did that?” Aqua asked in curiosity. Roxas was trying to find out what’s between Ven and Axel. However, it seemed like neither Aqua nor Terra knew the answer when he asked them at his second night gathering. “It’s rare to see Ven mad… No, I don’t think I’ve ever seen him mad before.” Terra added.

“I see, so you don’t know either, huh?” He muttered.

“Guys! The master wanted to speak.” Kairi called. Namine was behind her. They were soon led to the white room again. Eraqus was waiting. Along with Sora and Riku. Terra and Aqua quickly bowed down whilst Kairi and Naminé just smiled. He never knew that Terra and Aqua respected him so. It was never seen. Perhaps they were hiding it.

“Well, everyone. It is good news that our numbers are increasing. Today, I would like to form an annihilation team. In order to lessen the burden of everyone. I would like to create shifts over our night watch. Of course, I will be participating every night. Until now, Terra and Aqua has been doing great job watching over the school. But now, we have Sora, Roxas as well. I think it’s time to make shifts.” Eraqus stated.

“Master, we don’t really mind…” Aqua stated while blushing. How she loved being praised by the master. “I have trained the thr...” He coughed before continuing. “Two of you ever since you’re little brats. But Riku, Kairi, Sora, and especially Roxas has just awakened their keyblade not too long ago. It won’t do them good if they have to fight the heartless every night.” He explained.

Terra and Aqua nodded in union. Sora looked slightly displeased, but agreed in a way while Riku just kept his cool.

“…Father, what about Naminé?” Roxas asked.

To his question, Eraqus only sighed. It pained him to answer.

“I’ll stay.” Naminé stated with a smile. “If Naminé stays, then I will, too!” Kairi exclaimed with a determined face. “But, Kairi…” She muttered, at which the maroon haired protested. “I refuse to be nowhere near you, Naminé.” She said.

“Then, I’ll –“

“You rest, Roxas.” Eraqus stated. He was surprised by the master’s cold tone. Then he glared at his foster father. “Kairi, you too, rest. Only Naminé should come every night.” He stated again, then glanced at the pale skinned girl.

“I am sorry to ask you this, Naminé.” He apologized to the frail girl, at which he received a kind smile from her.

“Well then, I’ve had Riku assembled the schedule for you. Will you, Riku?” He said as he looked at the silver haired. The boy then walked to the center of everyone and unwrapped a big paper.

A total of seven days were written with everyone’s names under every days.

Monday : Terra, Riku, Sora

Tuesday : Aqua, Roxas, Kairi

Wednesday : Terra, Sora, Roxas

Thursday : Aqua, Riku, Kairi

Friday : Terra, Roxas, Riku

Saturday : Terra, Aqua

Sunday : Aqua, Sora, Kairi

“Huh? What is with this question mark?” Sora asked as he pointed at the marks on Saturday. Soon after everyone noticed that, they all looked at Riku with curiosity.

“It’s a free day. I believe both Terra and Aqua are used to the night work. Anyone may come. But other than that, they have no responsibility to come at this day.” Eraqus explained. All seven of them quietly agreed. None can fight against his will.

“This schedule shall be followed starting tomorrow. With that, dismissed.” Eraqus stated before he turned back to the monitor, watching every surveillance camera he secretly put in the school.

“Well, then. Are they here yet, Naminé ?” Riku asked. Naminé concentrated to try looking for the Heartless’s aura, but she found none.

“No, not yet, Riku.” She said as she shook her head.

“Then whaddya say we go out and take patrol?” Sora suggested. At which everyone agreed.

They each went out in pairs. The pairings were decided through a game of Rock, Paper, Scissor. Terra went with Riku, Aqua with Kairi, and Sora with Roxas.

Terra and Riku has decided to walk around the school to look for any abnormality. Aqua and Kairi stayed with Naminé in the white room with Aqua teaching Kairi some tricks of her magics. Sora and Roxas was left with patrolling the School’s grounds.

They ended up resting near the school’s pool.

“Whoa, look Roxas! The sky’s bright tonight!” Sora exclaimed. It’s true that the sky was clear tonight, which was rarely seen. They spent a few moments resting in silence as they watched the sky. It was filled with countless stars.

“…Somehow.” Sora stated. Roxas turned and face him. Sora was smiling. “Somehow, it felt like this isn’t the first time I spent a time with you like this, you know, under the stars, close to the sound of water…” He muttered. Then he stared at Roxas’s face.

“…What is it?” He asked, obviously disliked how Sora stared at him.

“Ah, Sorry. It’s weird, though. Wherever this feeling came from.” He muttered again, then glanced back to the sky.

“Maybe it’s just your feeling.” Roxas replied, he did the same thing as Sora.

“Yeah, you’re right.” Sora chuckled.

Then suddenly, his phone rang. It was Kairi.

“Heya, Kairi, what’s up?” He answered cheerfully.

“The Heartless…” Kairi muttered, her voice trembled slightly. It seemed like she was in a shock or something.

“Kairi? What’s wrong? Has the Heartless appear? Where are they?” He asked, but then he felt a tug of his clothes, Roxas’s face paled, he was pulling on Sora’s Jacket.

“The Heartless… they… they…” Kairi muttered, her voice still in a state of shock.

“Sora… look at them.” Roxas said, his voice in similar state of Kairi’s.

“They look just like you, Sora.” Kairi finished.

Before the two of them, there stood many Heartless, all of them in form of Sora.

----------------------

“Why do they look like Sora?!” Riku yelled as he bashed on the Heartless wildly alongside Terra. They were in the school corridors when they saw a shadow of Sora, thinking it was him until Aqua called Terra and explained the situation.

“How should I know?!” Terra yelled back as he dashed and performed Ars Solum on the multiple Sora – Heartless.

“Battling here won’t do us any good. Let them chase us to the grounds!” Terra yelled at his subordinate. “Roger” Riku replied as they make run for it.

---------------------

“Riku! Terra!” Sora yelled when he spotted them running to the school ground.

“Sora!” Riku called back and immediately approached them.

“The real thing?” Terra added. Sora pouted at his comment. “They keep appearing. How are we supposed to kill them all?” Roxas asked. The two of them, Sora and Roxas has cleared the path from the pool to the grounds. However, the Sora-Heartless were endless and it seemed like there are no end to this.

“We have to find the source. We have to find out where they appear and destroy whatever it is that makes them appear.” Terra pointed out.

“But how are we gonna do that?” Sora asked. Terra hadn’t a chance to answer before his cellphone rang. “Good grief, Aqua!” He said as he answered the phone.

“…Is it true? Right. I’ll check it out.” He said before hanging up. “Naminé has found out the source. It’s close to us. Search this place thoroughly!” Terra commanded. The other three nodded in unison and then split up. Beating the countless Sora-heartless and look for the whatever causing them to keep appearing.

It was then they heard a psychotic laughter, followed by a sudden appearance of a dark purplish hollow.

“What was that?” Sora asked as suddenly a boy whose face was hidden by the helmet he wore appeared.

“You called that a fight? What a laugh.” The masked boy laughed again. There was something from him that felt different from any other beings. Anyone could feel that his own existence emitted evil aura, and pure darkness.

“Who are you?!” Terra yelled at him as he blocked the Sora-heartless that surrounded them.

“Me? I’m nothing. After all, you guys will all die here.” He laughed again and then bent his arm, gathering the energy of the heartless as they were absorbed into the boy. Then the boy glanced at Roxas. He laughed and then used the gathered Heartless to summon a more powerful being.

“W-what is that?!” Sora yelled as the gathered Heartless formed a bigger being. It has long hair and a hole shaped like a heart on its chest. It was as big as the Nobody that they fought the other day.

“Hmph, let’s see what you’ve got.” The masked boy said, still glancing at Roxas. But none took attention at him.

Soon after it’s completed, the dark heartless attacked by swinging its arm to the ground, attempting to punch at them. Its attack missed for they were faster than the heartless. However, the monster’s attack created dark pool and gave birth to small heartless. Which was a bother since they had to take on them as well.

“I’ll take care of the smaller ones. You guys take on that big one.” Terra said as he launched himself to the small heartless. They kept trying to attack the monster. But the monster was far stronger than they thought. It barely received any damage.

“Sora!” Riku shouted. The monster was formed dark energy on its hole and then shot it to their direction. Riku was the first to notice and took the brunt of the attack while covering Sora from it.

“Riku!” Sora yelled and quickly caught him before he fell to the ground. Riku was injured badly. Sora tried to cast heal on him. The injuries healed; however, the dark force that caught him had adsorbed his energy and thus left him unconscious.

“Sora, take Riku away. We’ll handle this.” Terra commanded as he finished killing the small heartless. Unfortunately, the monster made another dark pool and summoned more small heartless. Giving Terra an endless job to do and left Roxas taking care of the big one alone.

“Hang on, Roxas! I’ll be right back!” Sora yelled as he carried Riku away.

Roxas nodded and kept attacking with his dual keyblade. This time, the monster created a dark ball on its hand, and then shot it to the sky. The dark ball splitted into smaller orbs and fell from the sky. Making a rain of dark energy.

“Whoaaaaa!!!” Roxas shouted. A barrier suddenly appear before him and Terra. The barrier reflected the dark orb and hit the monster. Which made a good amount of damage.

“Aqua!” Terra sighed in relief. Aqua has arrived, along with Kairi. “Sorry, there are heartless blocking the way. We had a hard time passing through. Don’t worry, the master has taken charge of Naminé.” Aqua explained as both kairi and she joined the fight.

“Heal!” Kairi shouted as she healed both Terra and Roxas.

“Now this is a counter-attack!” Terra shouted as he activated his Critical Impact form and Aqua her Spellweaver form.

Terra’s attacks has gotten stronger and Aqua got her magic heighten. They kept charging on the monster while Kairi healed them whenever they received damage. Aqua was in charge of protecting everyone with her barrier while the monster summoned its dark rain.

“Just a little more! Hang on everyone!” Terra yelled. He jumped and charged and then slammed his keyblade down to the monster. Forming a huge blast.

The monster was defeated.

“Finished!” Terra yelled. The masked boy laughed again. “We’ll see…” He laughed before he disappeared into the same hollow of darkness. Roxas and Terra tried to chase after him. By the time they reached the dark hollow, it has already disappeared.

“Who is he?” Aqua asked.

“I don’t know, but he seems to be controlling the heartless. Whatever he is, he’s bad news.” Terra tried to explain.

“…He’s… dark. I don’t know, I don’t like him.” Kairi stated.

“At least, let’s report to the master. We have to check on Riku’s condition as well.” Aqua suggested.

As they began to return to the homebase, Roxas stayed for a while. His mind filled with the image of the masked boy. It felt as if he knew him. He can’t get him off his head.

“Roxas, come on!” Kairi called. Her voice caught him and disturbed his thought.

“Yeah!” He yelled and chased after the three.

‘Who is he?’ He thought as he followed them.

-------

Thanks Hawkie =)

Hunter Hawk · December 24, 2011

You're welcome Nisie!

Wow, that sure was one epic chapter. I really liked it!

I just don't get it... why none sees your awsome work? I bet everyone would love it, cuz it's so good and also readable.

Nisie · December 25, 2011

I'm happy with you reading it though, Hawkie .

-------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 6 :

“Morning, Roxas.” Ven greeted. Today he felt really horrible. Battling the countless Sora-Heartless plus the big one really worn him out. Both his face and hair were messy. He could hear Ven being a worry-wart and question him many things, in which he hoped he could slip away.

However, Ven didn’t do that. Instead, his eyes were staring blankly at the floor. “…Ven?” He called. No response. “Ven.” He tried again. Still no response. “What’s wrong, Ven?” This time he tapped on the boy’s shoulder.

“Wah!” Ven cried out. Then focused his eyes on Roxas, whom examined him with a worried face. “What’s wrong? You’ve been weird lately.” Roxas asked. His twin then looked down again. His eyes looking even sadder than yesterday.

“…I had a bad dream.” He muttered then chuckled. “Yeah, I shouldn’t think much of it. I’ll go ahead first, okay?” He said before he turned and walk away.

“…Sure.” Roxas replied before he went to the shower.

------------------

Today was the first day they had actual lessons. His first period was chemistry, taught by Professor. Vexen. The man was rather mysterious and scary. He seems to be obsessed to the subject he was teaching that he didn’t even notice some of the students had fallen asleep on his theoretic explanations.

In the end, all Roxas could catch from Vexen’s explanations were “Homeworks from page 5 to 11.”

He yawned as he walked to the art club. He couldn’t help but wonder what Naminé made for him today. Which, of course won’t be very appetizing. However, he could dream, couldn’t he?

With that in thought, he walked to the art club while humming.

-------------------

Lunch Break – Library

scribble scribble

“…”

scribble scribble

“…khu…Not good… I can’t remember anything.” Ven muttered as he scratched the page he was writing on. He slumped his head to the desk, trying to get some rest. His head was pounding like crazy. It has been like that ever since morning, no. Ever since he got the first nightmare. He told Roxas that he didn’t remember. It hurts him to lie, however, he didn’t want to make Roxas worry.

“…Just what… is that.” He muttered to himself. An image of three boys in black coats appeared to his mind. The first one was a boy with blue hair, the other has fiery red hair. The two looked just like the two people he saw yesterday. The third person was a child no older than 10. He looked exactly like him. Yet he didn’t remember ever meeting the other two. The child was holding a key-like weapon. His eyes lifeless just like a living doll. His body covered by scraps and injuries. He was bleeding, the boy.

However, what worried Ventus the most was what the two called the boy.

“Roxas.” The red-haired said.

And that memory stuck in his head.

“…Who are they?” He muttered again as he began scribbling again. He tried to withdraw more memories from scribbling the vision he had. The result was none.

Giving up on the first, he then started to draw on the second. This time, it was an image of a smiling bald man, and a shining “X” on his hand. The man walked to him.

""χ"... A most ancient letter. Some say "kye," but the meaning is the same. Death... A letter that spells endings." The man said.

His head hurts. He tried to hold it in; however, trying to remember these memories that flashed through his minds just pained him. And he couldn’t help it. He lied down and stared at the ceilings.

“…It’s only a dream.” He told himself. It would be good if it was a dream. No, it must be only a dream. There’s no way it could happened. Roxas has always been with him. Along with Terra, Aqua, and their stepfather. The five of them has always been together.

“…only a dream?” A voice whispered on his ear. The blonde was surprised and quickly stood from his chair and turned to face the whisperer. However he could find no one but bookcases.

“…Must be my imagination…” He told himself then decided to put away the books he took. It was then another hand stopped his. He looked up to find a boy with golden eyes and black hair, smiling evilly at him.

“Who are you?!” He growled. He didn’t know why, but he could feel that this boy was emitting evil aura. It made him sick. It gave him lots of pressure, as if he was going to be eaten away. Somehow, just making contact with him sapped his energy.

Ven gave the boy a sharp glare, but the boy replied him with an evil grin. The boy tightened his grip on Ven’s arm. Ven tried to break free, but the boy’s strength was beyond his. At least, him at the moment. “Let me go.” He ordered as he tried to pull his hand. The boy’s hand was cold, as cold as ice.

“You better hurry, Ventus.” The boy smirked before he harshly threw Ven’s arm away. Leaving the boy in confusion. “What do you mean hurry?!” He asked with an anger tone. Although, he couldn’t yell for he was in the library.

The boy smirked again and this time he reached out his hands to catch Ven’s face. He leered and at the same time, a painful jolt reached Ven’s head. “Nggh… wha…?” He tried to stand, but soon after the pain reached him, he lost his balance and fell. Both of his hands reached his head. It was so painful to bear.

Then he saw a dream.

He was in a tube. He felt blank and empty. As if he was dying. Before him stood the same bald man and another boy. The boy has similar black hair and golden eyes. The bald man smiled at him. “Forge the X-blade…”

Then everything went blank.

“Roxas!” a voice shouted. He returned to reality. His head still hurts like crazy. His vision blurred and the last thing he remembered was that the black haired boy smiled to him.

“Roxas! Are you alright?!” The same voice asked him. The voice’s owner lifted him a bit and examined him. Slowly, his vision cleared up. The voice’s owner turned out to be a boy, whose face was identical to the black haired. The only difference was that his hair was brown.

“…No…I’m Ventus.” He said as he tried to lift his body up. The headache has disappeared. But he was still a bit dizzy. “…Huh? What are you talking about, Rox-“ Then the boy stopped, as if remembered something.

“Ah, that’s right. He has a twin brother.” The boy said again then offered Ven a hand to help him up. Which was gratefully accepted by Ven.

“Thanks.” He said as he smiled. He examined the boy carefully. Since he mentioned Roxas, he should be Roxas’s friend. The way he was so familiar to the black haired crept him up a bit, then again, he might have dreamed that up. He was unsure which was real, now.

“You’re welcome! I’m Sora. Nice to meet you, Ventus!” He grinned. This boy was lively and cheerful. So very different from the other one he saw. He must have dreamed that up.

“Oh, you can just call me Ven. Nice to meet you, Sora.” He said. Then he looked around. Trying to find the black haired. But his attempts were futile.

“Say, Ven. Why were you laying on the floor just now?” Sora asked.

“Well, I felt dizzy just now and… well, I guess I must have fainted.” He chuckled, deciding to keep it a secret for now. “Are you okay? I heard you also fainted on the other day.” Sora asked with a worried face. Ven just smiled at him.

“I’m okay. Don’t worry.” He said with a smile.

“Well, if you say so.” Sora chuckled.

“Well, do you need any help?” Ventus asked, which made Sora confused. Sora was unsure what to answer him until Ven chuckled and showed him the library arm band attached to his arm. Proofing himself to be an official library committee.

“I see. Well, I need help finding a reference book for Chemistry.” He smiled as he scratched the back of his head. “The Chemistry books are this way. Please come with me.” He said as he led the way.

----------------

Lunch Break – Art Club

“Are you sure it’s okay to use this room everytime? We could have just eat in your class or mine, you know.” Roxas asked. Namine was smiling happily. It seemed like whatever she made today had turned out good. “It’s okay. I’ve got permission from Mr.Eraqus. This is where I like to sort the clues we found.” She said.

“Clues?” He asked. Then she showed him the scrapped paper, Ansem’s Reports. He smiled in understanding.

“…I wanted to know everything. The truth behind my father’s intentions… and… what he’s like.” She said then gave Roxas the packed lunchbox. “I was so small when it all happened, so I remembered only little about him…” She said, faking her smile. But then she turned and

“Shall we eat, then?” She asked. He nodded then examined the bento she made. It was sushi. Although the size was a little bit off, it looked fine enough. ‘I wonder… I don’t think this is the right time to ask…’ He thought as he tried the sushi.

“How is it?” She asked shyly. And he tried his best to smile. He could feel his tongue burns. He was sweating hard. “N-naminé…” He panted. She looked pale looking at him. He was desperately trying to hold himself from running away and find himself some water. “How much wasabi did you put in?” He asked. Trying to hint her her faults.

“Eh? Was it too much? I thought you must make the wasabi visible…” She muttered before she saw him making pale face while struggling against the spiciness. “Kyaaa! Roxas! Water! Water!” She screamed as she reached for the iced tea she brought along.

“Aah, I’m saved…” Roxas muttered after he drank the water. “I’m sorry…” She apologized. He chuckled and patted her head. “It’s fine, I don’t hate spicy food. It’s just… You put in too much wasabi.” He smiled.

“But I failed again, didn’t I?” She sighed.

“Well, they said that failure is the road to success.” He attempted to cheer her up.

“…Thank you, Roxas.” She smiled.

“No problem. After all, we’re all friends, now, right?” He chuckled.

“…Yes.” She blushed happily.

----------------------------------

Roxas couldn’t help but smile sheepishly all through the rest of the day. He was way happy, and that was obviously shown on his face. Although, that didn’t last long.

‘Where’s Ven?’ He thought as he looked around the corridor. Ven was usually there, waiting for him and then they’d walk home together. ‘Should I pick him up?’ He thought, but then he felt a pat on his shoulder.

“Ven?” He turned only to find Hayner puzzled. “Oh, what’s up Hayner?” He asked. The other boy grinned and asked him out along with Pence and Olette to enjoy an ice cream together in their ‘secret base’ which they’re about to show Roxas.

He made a glance to Ven’s classroom before agreeing. ‘His classroom is already empty. Maybe he went ahead?’ He thought before he followed the group.

‘He went ahead today, too. What’s gotten into him?’ He thought again before brushing it off his head and hurried to catch up with the others.

Hunter Hawk · December 25, 2011

O___O Jeez, Vanitas always creeps me out. I could imagine how Venny feels...

Anyway one more time - epic chapter!!!!

I'll try to inform my friends about your story, cuz it totally rocks!!!

replika13 · December 25, 2011

Inte3resting story! make more pleeeeeaaaase!

Nisie · January 2, 2012

Chapter 7

Happy New Year guys

-----------------------------------

“X-blade…” Ven muttered. He kept looking for information about this X-blade. He scribbled down everything in his notebook. The three memories he had. The pieces of mystery. He was scared to know, yet he felt as if he needed to know. And that black haired boy wasn’t helping. He only made everything worse.

‘Better hurry, Ventus.’ He remembered. What was there to hurry about? And how did he knew his name?

‘So confusing…’ He thought as he slumped his head again on the library desk. It was almost dark now. He wondered if he should go home soon. He didn’t want Roxas to worry. Then again, Roxas was probably still out with Hayner.

He was waiting for Roxas to get out until he saw Hayner. They were in the same class, and their class got to get out earlier. Hayner had invited him to his (their) secret base, and told him that he wanted to show Roxas as well. It was then he decided to let Roxas go home alone while he continued his research in the library.

“…This is stupid, I must look crazy.” He said as he read one of the psychological books he brought. It was luck that Sora didn’t look at these books. Or else he won’t know how to handle his embarrassment. ‘What am I trying to do? I don’t even knew if these memories were real…’ He thought to himself as he kept reading.

The Amnesias: A Clinical Textbook of Memory Disorders by Andrew C.Papanicolaou

THE ORIGIN ANDMEANING OF DREAMS by ERNEST HARTMANN, M.D.

False-Memory Creation in Children and Adults by David F. Bjorklund

And so on.

He read them all, and the more he read, the more confused he become. “…This is meaningless, I should go home, after all.” He muttered as he put away the books and grabbed his bag.

“Going somewhere?” A familiar voice called. He flinched and turned around to see the same black haired boy smirking at him.

“You! How did you get in here?!” He shouted at him. The boy just smirked and he seemed to enjoy his agitation.

“You should have known.” The boy chuckled.

“…What do you want?” Ven hissed. He disliked this boy. He wanted to get out from the library as soon as he can. However, as much as he wanted to leave, he also wanted to know what this boy knew about him. It’s clear that whoever this boy is, he was related to him.

“I’m testing.” The black haired chuckled as he approached Ven slowly. In which the blond took small steps backwards, trying to distance him from the black haired.

“Well… shall we start?” The boy chuckled. Behind him appeared a black hollow. The black haired bent his arms and from the dark hollow there came an army of blue monsters. The blue monsters charged at him and disabled his every movement until he lost his balance. They wrapped around him. Leaving him completely useless.

“Let me go!” He yelled. This is not good, he couldn’t break free from these little monsters. The black haired just approached him calmly, and then crouched down to his level. He smirked evilly and then covered his face with his hand.

Then everything went blank.

------------

“See ya later, Roxas!” Pence said as he waved goodbye.

“Have a great weekend, Roxas.” Olette followed.

“’til next time, buddy!” Hayner finished as the three disappeared to each one’s house. They didn’t live in the dorm. Their houses were close to school that they didn’t need to live in the dorm.

Roxas watched until he couldn’t see the three before leaving. He could hear the train’s sound. It gave him a slight warm feeling that he wondered where it came from.

“…Ven’s waiting.” He told himself as he hurried to go home.

When he reached his room, all he could see was an empty room with no sign of Ven. Ven would usually be there, smiling at him and greeted him. Preparing dinner or ask him about his day.

He didn’t get any of those today.

“…Ven?” He called. There was no response. He looked at the bedroom and the bathroom. Still no sign of Ven. His twin also didn’t answer to his calls. He tried calling Terra and Aqua, but they also didn’t about Ven’s location.

He panicked and rushed outside. He searched the school. The library, it was locked. He kept trying to reach for Ven’s cellphone, but all he could hear was the same message about the phone unreachable and please try again in a few minutes.

“Damn it, Ven! Where are you?!” He told himself as he gritted his teeth and ran across the hallway to look for his brother.

He was angry, and scared at the same time. He couldn’t even believe that he was feeling that way.

In the end, Ven was no longer in school. He lost his breath and decided to take a quick rest in front of the gate. ‘Calm down, Roxas… He might be messing around with his friends…’ He thought to himself as he watched the sky. It was completely nightfall.

‘…No, Ven isn’t the type to go out this late…’ He thought again and walked aimlessly. That was when he met Terra and Aqua, also panting. It seemed like they had looked around the town. And seeing how Ven wasn’t with them, it seemed like they also failed to find him.

“Roxas!” Aqua called as they caught up with him. “Aqua, Terra…did you find him?” He asked. Hoping to hear good answers from them although he already knew the truth.

“…I’m sorry, we’re unable to find him anywhere. When was the last time you saw him?” Terra asked.

And he suddenly became guilty. Terra’s voice echoed through his mind. The image of Ven, leaving their room this morning flashed to his mind. “I’ll go ahead first, okay?” Ven’s words echoed. His heart raced. His mind become numb.

“Everyone!” A cheerful voice called.

For a moment, he felt joy. For a moment, he found hope. That cheerful voice sounded like Ven’s. That was until he noticed that the voice was in a different tone. A more childish tone.

Sora was waving his hands in the air. Kairi, Riku, and Naminé tagged along behind him. They all smiled, completely oblivious to what’s going on.

“Ven disappeared?!” Sora jumped at Terra’s explanation. Roxas kept silent.

“Yeah, did any of you seen him?” Terra asked. Riku looked away and Kairi scratched her face. Naminé shook her head. Neither of them had even met him.

“…Well, not after school… I saw him at lunch break in the library.” Sora said. Hearing that, Roxas was slightly relieved. At least that meant that Ven was at school until school ended.

“He was acting weird, though… When I found him, he was lying on the floor. But he said that he was only dizzy. Oh! He’s also reading weird things!” Sora explained.

Roxas cringed.

“The books he read has many difficult words… and oh! I remember the cover has something like ‘Nightmare’ on it! Oh, wait. This doesn’t give clue at all?” Sora said with a confused look.

Then Roxas jumped at him. “He passed out?!” He yelled as he grabbed Sora’s collar.

“Roxas calm down!” Naminé shouted as she tried pulling him.

“Y-yes?” Sora answered. His eyes staring at Roxas’s horrified face. Roxas must be very worried. Sora never thought that Roxas could snap like that. To him, it looked like Roxas was a calm and collected boy. The type to keep his cool like Riku.

Roxas let go of him. His face looked very guilty and lost. No one could say anything to him. They were left in silence for what seemed like 10 minutes.

“We mustn’t give up. He must be somewhere. Right, everyone?” Naminé tried to raise the mood. Kairi smiled and agreed with her.

“That’s right. If we give up now, we’ll never find him.” Kairi stated.

“…You’re right.” Roxas said as he stood. His eyes filled with determination.

They were ready to take off until Roxas’s phone rang. He quickly read the caller id and pressed the answer button in insane speed soon after he saw the name written on it.

“VEN?!” He shouted, which led everyone surprised.

“Well, not quite right.” The caller chuckled. His voice was familiar. The same cold and annoying voice of the masked boy from last night.

“You… what did you do to Ven?!” He hissed. The name written on his phone was Ven’s. Obviously, he had done something to Ven.

“Oh, nothing much.” The boy chuckled. “Look up.” He added.

Roxas did as told and saw a boy with black hair whose face resembled Sora standing on the school roof. Next to him stood Ven. The blond didn’t respond to anything. Not even to Roxas’s desperate calls. It’s as if he was a puppet.

“You bastard! What did you do to him!?” He shouted in the calls. The black haired put the phone away from him for a while and then answered with a laugh.

“I told you, nothing much. I’m just preparing him for a fun game we’re about to play.” He grinned. Roxas kept shouting on the phone. Cursing the black haired boy with his might. “Energetic, aren’t you?” The black haired laughed, it only angered Roxas even more. He was having fun from all this.

“Roxas, calm down a bit. This is what he wanted. Don’t fall to his traps!” Naminé tried to calm him down. The second he heard ‘traps’ he stopped cursing and took a deep breath. Trying to keep his head cool.

“Traps? I’m not placing any traps, you see. Oh well, I should explain the rules. It’s simple, all you had to do…” He paused and grinned.

“is to fight this brother of yours.” He grinned before he threw the cellphone down and disappeared to the dark hollow.

“Wait!” Roxas shouted at the cellphone, only to find a loud crash and a terminated connection. He then sprinted to reach the stairs. However, he was stopped by Terra when the older noticed something strange with the flow of the wind.

The wind was gathering around Ventus. It happened just like when Roxas performed the strike raid move. Only this time, he wasn’t the one controlling the wind. Ventus was. Behind Ventus, six light blades appeared. The boy closed his eyes for a second and let the wind carried him.

He was floating in mid-air. Then, as he opened his eyes, he dove down to Roxas, two of the light blades on his hand.

“Roxas watch out!” Naminé screamed. Roxas summoned his keyblade and blocked Ventus’s attack. However, even though he managed to block the first attack, Ventus quickly attacked him with the rest of the blades behind him.

“Roxas!” Sora yelled as he ran to help him. His Kingdom Key ready on his hand. “Wait, Sora!” Roxas tried to warn him, but Ven was much faster than him. He easily slipped to Sora’s sides and attacked with the renewed six blades behind him. It was pure luck that Aqua managed to cast a barrier to protect Sora. Else he would have been severely injured.

“Kairi! Get Naminé out of here, quick!” Aqua yelled as she concentrated on Ven’s movements. They can’t bear to attack him. But at the same time, if she didn’t block his attacks, it won’t do them any good.

The red haired nodded and grabbed Naminé’s hand before they fled the area. They were about to reach the front doors until Naminé noticed something.

“Everyone! The heartless are approaching!” She warned.

“Damn it…Riku! You and I go take on the Heartless! Aqua! I’ll leave Ven to you!” Terra exclaimed as he and Riku both ran to the Heartless’s locations Naminé detected.

“Ven! Snap out of it!” Roxas called. Again, the boy remained emotionless. He kept attacking them as if he was possessed by something. They need to find a way to make Ven snap out of it without hurting him.

“Damn it… I can’t attack him. But what should we do?!” Sora shouted as he blocked Ventus’s attacks. Which was hard to be done. His attacks were fast and powerful. Even if he succeeded in blocking, Ven would still be able to lay damages on him.

Even Aqua had trouble blocking Ventus’s attacks.

“Let’s take him to the pool!” Aqua suggested. The other two agreed and they ran with all they might to the school’s pool.

Meanwhile, Terra and Riku were having a tough time beating a number of large body Heartless. These heartless can only be beaten when attacked from behind. So far, they were having hard time blocking their attacks.

Even after Kairi joined them, they were still unable to finish the Heartless hunting.

“Naminé! Leave this place!” Kairi commanded. At first the pale skinned hesitated, but after hearing her yells, she decided not to be a burden and left.

“We had no choice.” Terra said as he activated his Rock Breaker form. In this form, he was much stronger. Giant rocks appeared soon after he finished his move. They surrounded him and then unleashed a large damage to the Heartless in every direction. Crushing them at the same time.

However, doing that really takes a lot from Terra. He was left with no energy after using that form and that left Kairi taking care of him while Riku went to help the others.

-------

Once they arrived at the pool, Roxas acted as the bait as Aqua jumped and slammed Ven from behind. She caught him and made him fell to the water along with her. The two remained in the pool for a moment until they re-appeared with Aqua badly injured from the slashes and Ven gliding the air.

“Aqua!” Sora yelled as he came to her aide. “I’m fine. Heal!” She yelled as green light surrounded her and healed her wounds. Although, even with her wounds healed, her strength wasn’t recovered. She used too much of her energy making barriers for all three of them when Ven attacked continuously.

“Ven! It’s me! Roxas! Don’t you remember?!” Roxas kept yelling at him. His throat parched and hurts. It hurt him when his voice was unable to reach Ven.

It surprises him when Ven paused in mid-air. His eyes locked to Roxas’s with confusion.

“Ro…xas?” Ven muttered. Roxas saw his chance and kept yelling at him.

“That’s right! I’m Roxas! Your twin! Your brother!” He yelled.

“…kh…R-rox…” He muttered again. Both his hands supported his head. His head hurts like crazy. He wanted to end this. It hurts so much.

Then a voice whispered to him.

‘End it.’ The voice said. With a cold and evil tone, the voice controlled him once again against his will.

“…N-no. Don’t!” Ven shouted as he struggled against the unknown force that controlled his body. He cringed and shouted at Roxas before the force controlled him fully.

“RUN!” He shouted. The six blades behind him began to glow and pointed down. He was enveloped in a ball of light before the sword fell and circled Roxas.

Roxas remained frozen when it all happened.

The six swords only needed Ven to finish the move. To vanquish everything trapped in between.

That was the first time he ever heard Ven screamed his lung out. However, his legs were going numb. His end was near. And the one ending his life was no one but his brother.

‘At least… Ven’s back to normal… right?’ He thought before he closed his eyes.

‘Seriously, must you make that kind of face at my last moment?’ He thought again. The last vision he saw was Ven’s horrified face. Which wasn’t really cool for one’s last moment. He could have seen a smile. Which was much better.

He waited

and waited.

Yet the end never came.

Slowly, he opened his eyes. The six swords were gone and so was Ven. He looked around to see Sora supporting Aqua with a relieved face and Riku carrying an unconscious Ven. Behind the silverette was a demon-like monster. It resembled a Heartless, yet it’s attached to Riku’s body.

“Riku!” Sora yelled. Concerned about his friend. His reply was “I’m fine, Sora.” and then the monster disappeared.

Riku laid Ven on the ground. Tears rolled down from Ven’s eyes. But he laid unconscious.

“…What happened?” Roxas muttered, he could still feel his head intact. It seemed like whatever Riku did had saved him from being annihilated by his own brother.

“Riku came just in time. Although, I can’t say you did the right thing unleashing that thing from your heart, Riku.” Aqua told him as she scolded Riku at the same time. The silver haired nodded and admitted his mistakes.

“I’m sorry, I can’t find another way. I promise not to release it again.” He said as he bowed down in apology.

“Well, I can’t really blame you. If you didn’t do that, Roxas would be gone by now.” She said, sighing in relief.

“Aqua!” Terra yelled. Kairi and Naminé following not far behind. “Is everyone okay? How’s Ven?!” He asked as he noticed the unconscious Ven on the ground.

“Everything is fine. How’s the Heartless?” Aqua asked in return. Terra only smiled, which gave her enough information about the condition. “Let’s return. We must bring Ven home… and heal our wounds before he wakes up.” Aqua noted as Kairi healed everyone with her Curaga.

------------

Far away from the school was a bald-headed man watching their actions through his monitors. The same black haired boy was standing next to him. The old man grinned as he asked the boy. “What do you make of Ventus?”

“Right now it’s still impossible. He still needs to be polished.” The boy stated. “Also, his half is missing.”

“Missing… I see…” The bald mean smiled. “Then shall he be polished in another way.” He added.

“…As you wish, Master.” The boy said before he disappeared into the black hollow again.

--------------------------------------

Aaand I hope you like it

Again, thank you for reading!

Hunter Hawk · January 2, 2012

OMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMG!!!!!! That chapter was freaking awsome!!! The best one I've seen so far!!! Keep writing cuz you rock!!!

Jeez I'm in love with you stories :wub:

I can't bloody wait for the next chapter!!!

Nisie · January 5, 2012

A/N: Reviews help me to get the story better.

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CHAPTER 8

“ROXAS!” Ven screamed right at the moment he woke up. He blinked when he saw the white environment. Next to the bed he was sleeping in was an opened window. Fresh breeze of wind flapped the window’s curtain. It was early in the morning.

“…eh? Where…” He muttered until he saw Roxas sitting on the corner of the room. His eyes closed. His body remained motionless, which scared the hell out of Ven.

“ROXAS!” Ven screamed again as he jumped from the bed to reach his twin. Unknown to him that his hand was attached to the IVs. Tears rolled down from his eyes. Not because of the pain jolted from his sudden movement, or from the IV syringes, but from the fear of losing Roxas. He bumped to Roxas harshly.

“Gha!” Roxas cried when he felt someone head-butted him on the stomach. “Wh- Ven?!” Roxas yelled when he saw his older twin clinging to him with eyes crying a river.

“Roxas! You’re alright! You’re alive!” He cried then he started to mumble many things that Roxas couldn’t catch on. “Ven… calm down…” He muttered. ‘I wonder which one of us is the older brother sometimes…’ He thought as he watched his older twin bawling like a baby.

“I’m sorry…” Ven muttered as he clutched his hand on Roxas’s shirt even tighter. “I almost killed you… I’m sorry.” He muttered again. “Ven…What are you talking about…” Roxas tried to explain to him that those weren’t real albeit the fact. He couldn’t let Ven knew about the truth. And so he tried his best to make Ven think that everything was just his dream. That is, if his brother was listening to him. Which, he didn’t.

“I’m sorry… I almost killed you…I’m sorry.” He kept repeating those words. Roxas was starting to get irritated. Looking at Ven right now saddens him. It wasn’t his damn fault. It was the black –haired – whoever-his-name’s fault.

“Geez, Ven. I don’t get what you’re saying. Come on, snap out of it.” He said as he sighed. He tried to keep an act. And he was surprisingly good at it. Hearing that, Ven stopped crying and looked at Roxas with confused face.

“…Your face is priceless.” Roxas chuckled when he saw how ridiculous Ven’s face right now. “Come on. Wipe up those tears.” He said as he handed him his handkerchief.

Ven accepted the handkerchief and did as told. Then he looked around. Confused to where he was. “…Where are we?” He finally asked. It seemed like he has returned to his senses.

“We’re in the hospital. You’re unconscious for a week, Ven. Really, I’m the one who should be worried.” He sighed. Ven looked around again before he finally locked his eyes on Roxas. “…But…Did I really dream that thing up?” He muttered as he examined Roxas.

Roxas tried to keep his calm when Ven asked that. “Just what were you dreaming?” He asked. Ven looked down before he told Roxas his dream. It was a good thing that the only thing Ventus remembered was when the six blades circled Roxas. When he was about to finish him. But that scene alone must have scared Ven a lot.

What would you feel when you saw yourself about to kill somebody you loved?

Roxas never thought of that. Then again, he never thought that he would fight Ventus either.

“But, thank goodness… it was only a dream.” Ven sighed gladly. “If…it was real… what would I do?” He muttered, then he shook his head. The thought was too scary to think about. Roxas sighed then lifted his brother up from the ground and piggybacked him to his bed.

“Hey, I can walk on my own.” Ven said as he struggled from Roxas’s grasp, but failed to do so. Somehow he felt really weak. Roxas said nothing and kept walking. Ven had become lighter. Probably due to his stay in hospital. After all, he hadn’t eaten anything for a week.

“Well, I bet you’re hungry. Wait here while I get you something.” Roxas said as he placed Ven securely on the bed.

“Oh, and I’ll get the doctors too while I’m at it. I think you broke the IVs when you jumped earlier. Hold on, kay?” He added before he exited the room and looked for doctors.

“…He saw through me…” Ven muttered as he held his hand. The syringe has completely left his hand, but the pain from it being pulled out so sudden still lingered. It wasn’t just his hands. His entire body felt weak. As if his life force has just been sucked down. But that was normal, he guessed. After all, he hadn’t move for a week. Of course there are weird feelings at every joints in his body.

“…But if those were dream… How did I pass out?” Ven muttered then looked at the window. Trying to remember the events happened back then. He was in the library. Trying to find out how to sort the memories he found in his dreams. Then there was him. The boy with black hair and golden eyes.

“…He resembled Sora.” He muttered as he watched the curtains flapped. Sora. The name rings a bell somehow. Why did it feel like he’d met him long before?

“…I think I’m becoming old.” He told to himself as he decided not to worry about things. It wasn’t like him to worry about confusing matters.

--------

“Terra? Yeah. Ven has woke up. Please pass this to Aqua and father as well.” Roxas said. He clicked his cellphone and then dialed the next number. “Sora? …No, nothing happened, don’t worry. Ven just woke up... Eh? Now? Well, it’s fine. Ven’ll be happy… Sure, thanks.” He hung up.

“Speaking of Cellphone…” He muttered as he stared at his cellphone. Ven’s cell got destroyed when Vanitas threw it. He didn't know how to tell Ven about this. Sooner or later Ven would be looking for his cell.

He kept thinking of an idea to deceive Ven while waiting for the takeaway pancakes from the cafeteria.

Lightbulb.

--------

“Ven! You’re awake!” Aqua cried when she saw the younger boy sitting on his bed wide awake. “Aqua! Terra!” Ven replied with a smile. He was happy to have company. Roxas was still away it seemed, probably still at the cafeteria. A nurse came to check up on him and repair the IV syringes earlier. Probably due to Roxas’s call. However, she went out quickly, leaving Ven alone in the room.

He was bored. But he was glad that Terra and Aqua came to see him. Aqua brought him fruits and even made apple rabbits for him. “You’re really skilled, Aqua. Thank you for the apples!” Ven smiled as he chomped happily on the apple rabbits.

“I’m back. Ah, Terra, Aqua. When did you come?” Roxas greeted as he noticed the extra numbers. “Welcome back, Roxas! Aqua made these apple rabbits!” Ven chirped cheerfully. Roxas was glad to find Ven back to his cheerful self.

He placed the pancake box on the desk and took a seat next to Aqua. He took a deep breath before he performed his action.

“…Um…Ven, I need to apologize.” He said with a slight blush on his cheeks. His twin tilted his head to the side. Wondering what Roxas did wrong. “I…uh, kind of stepped into your cellphone when I found you, so…” He gulped. “I’m sorry, I was panicking and then…your phone broke…” He ended. He waited for a response.

What came from Terra and Aqua’s looks were ‘Uwaaah, that’s so lame…’ with both of them staring at Roxas.

However, Ven chuckled in response.

He expected him to be angry or making the confused look. However, Ven chuckled, not even that, he even giggled.

“What? I thought you did something else.” He laughed then reached out to pat Roxas’s head. “Were you that worried about me?” He smiled the kind smile. “Then I’m sorry I made you worry…but, thanks. Roxas.” He said before he turned to Terra and Aqua to apologize from making them worry.

‘Ah…it hurts.’ Roxas looked down. A pain was throbbing on his chest. He lied again. It hurts to see how kind Ven reacts to his lies.

It hurts.

“Ya~Hooo!” cried a cheerful voice. He knew this voice too well that he immediately smacked the head of the one shouting.

“Ow, Roxas! What was that for?!” Sora cried. “You’re too loud.” He replied coldly. Behind Sora stood Riku, Kairi and Naminé.

“Sora! You came too? And… umm…” Ven exclaimed when he saw the four. Then his eyes fell on the other three whom he never met.

“They are my friends. Riku, Kairi, and Naminé!” Sora introduced as they greeted each another and Naminé placed the bouquet of flowers she and Kairi bought earlier in the vase.

“I see, nice to meet you guys.” Ven smiled. Then came another guest. It was Eraqus.

“Father!” Both Terra and Ven exclaimed. The man carried a small box with him. “Ventus. I’m glad you’re finally awake.” He smiled as he handed him the box. “What’s this?” He asked. Eraqus just told him to unwrap it.

He did as told and revealed a new cellphone within.

“I heard that your cellphone is broken. So I decided to buy you a new one.” The old man smiled again.

“Father… I’ll take good care of it. Thank you very much!” Ven thanked him.

He had fun. He was so happy to see many people visited him. Although, they were soon kicked out by the nurses for visiting time was over. Ven needed to stay in the hospital for at least tonight until he can be released.

Roxas had spent the last week sleeping alone. He found it hard sleeping while Ven was in that state. He couldn’t help but worry. But today, he could finally find solace in his sleep. It relieved him so much that Ventus is finally awake. He was also doing fine. With that in thought, Roxas smiled in his sleep.

‘Tomorrow’s gonna rock.’ He thought before sleep consumed him.

--------

“Congratulations for your son’s recovery, Mr.Eraqus. There were no abnormalities. He may continue his study tomorrow.” The doctor congratulated him. Ventus was happy to hear how he can continue his school days tomorrow. He had been skipping so much for his first year in high school.

Terra and Aqua were also there to pick him up. Roxas and the others were unfortunately nowhere to be seen and his two friends just won’t tell him where they are. “You’ll see, Ven.” Terra repeated as Ven kept bugging him.

And then after he reached home, everyone threw confetti at him. Everyone was there. Including Zack and Hayner’s gang.

“Congratulations!” They shouted together.

“Everyone…” Ven muttered. Mesmerized by the thoughtful feelings they gave him. “…I don’t know how to thank you.” He smiled happily.

“It’s Roxas’s idea. He planned all this.” Kairi explained as she pointed to Roxas, whom was blushing at the corner of the room. Ven immediately ran to him and glomped the boy. “Thank you so much, Roxas!” He cried out. Roxas was blushing madly. “Y-you would have done the same!” He blurted out.

“Then let the party start!” Sora cried out.

The day ended with that small, yet wonderful party.

----------

“A~h, sleeping in your own bed is the best.” Ven muttered after they both tucked into their beds, ready to sleep. “What is it like in the hospital?” Roxas asked. Ven pouted and commented how uncomfortable he was and how the IVs hurt.

“…But worse of all, you weren’t there, Roxas.” He muttered then rolled to face his twin’s face with a smile. “…what? You’re such a child.” Roxas teased. “Everyone is.” Ven replied.

“What does that mean?” Roxas asked again with a chuckle.

“Hey, Roxas… did you…miss me?” He asked. Roxas stared at Ven’s face for a couple of second before he smiled. “…I guess… I couldn’t sleep well without you there.” He said as he looked at the ceilings. The bed which was once empty has its owner back.

“…Were you worried?” Ven asked again. This time, Roxas looked at him with a confused face. “Who wouldn’t? Of course I’m worried.” He answered. Then he yawned. “Come on, let’s get to sleep. We have school tomorrow.”

“Roxas.” Ven called.

“Hm?”

“Thanks.” He smiled.

Hunter Hawk · January 5, 2012

Awwww that was so cute!!!

But I kinda have a feeling that Venny will found out the truth sooner or later...

Oh, forgot to tell you that I really liked how you put Wingblade command style into previous chapter. I'm still imagining him in sky, flying with swords like wings. !!!

replika13 · January 5, 2012

happy new year there ^^

hope y had good holidays.

Nisie · January 9, 2012

-Sorry I seem to have trouble with posting that I ended up triple posting. -

Nisie · January 9, 2012

Aww, thanks you two ^ ^.

And replika13. Happy -late- new year to you too CX

------------------------------

A/N : This is a flashback of what happened during Ventus's sleep.

Chapter 9 ::

Day one : Sunday.

“Don’t worry, Terra, Aqua. I’ll protect Ven no matter what.” He told to his two seniors by phone. It was Sunday night. His body was still trembling, a bit. He looked at his unconscious twin lying on the bed motionlessly. It scared him. He was on the verge of death and the one ending his life is no one but his own twin.

Had Riku not come at time, he would have vanished for good.

“Are you okay, Roxas?” Came a worried voice. It was Sora. The brown haired then took a seat next to him. Watching the unconscious Ven on the bed.

“…He didn’t stir, not even a bit.” Roxas explained. Both of them looked down.

“The master said that we’ll need to bring him to the hospital if he didn’t wake up tomorrow.” Sora said.

He only nodded in response.

----------------------

Day two : Monday.

“Then, I’ll go now, okay? Ven?” He said as he looked to the sleeping boy on the bed. Ven still won’t wake up. Roxas locked the door and walked to school alone. He tried his best to distract himself from the thought of unconscious Ven. He knew that Eraqus will be watching over Ven. But he couldn’t help but be afraid of that black haired boy which resembled Sora a lot.

Was that why the heartless that night looked like Sora?

Then, would that mean that the black haired boy was controlling the Heartless?

In the end he couldn’t distract himself.

-------

“Roxas, don’t push yourself.” Naminé said to him, trying to cheer him up. He just smiled at the girl. He knew she was trying her best. And that he can’t let her down. “You’re right… Well, how did it go today?” He asked, referring to the lunchbox she made.

“Ah! I managed to make Riceballs!” She said with a pushed cheerful voice.

“Really?” He asked.

“Yes.” She nodded and then let him taste one.

“…It’s good.” He said.

By the time he reached home, he got a call from Eraqus. Notifying him that Ven has been transferred to Hollow Bastion Hospital.

That night he slept alone.

-------

Day Three : Tuesday.

“Terra and Riku is watching over him, so you don’t have to worry.” Aqua assured him. If it was the usual him, it’ll feel awkward for him since he was the only boy in this night’s team. But tonight, he didn’t want to think anything. He only wanted to unleash his anger on the heartless and then quickly went home.

He wanted to see the day Ven wakes up.

Why can’t time move faster?

-------

Day Four : Wednesday.

He’s slowly breaking apart. It has been the fourth day. He’s starting to think if Ven would never wake up.

Everyone was also overwhelmed by restless feelings. Even the cheerful Sora.

“Hey, Sora?” He tried to start a conversation. Hopefully that could change the mood.

“Hm?” was all he got from Sora. They were waiting for the Heartless to come.

“How did you have your keyblade?” He asked. That definitely wasn’t the best topic.

“Well… it happened before school starts. I thought I was having a dream. You had one too, right? The one where you’re standing on a stained glass and the sword, staff, and shield thing?” He asked.

He remembered seeing an image of him sleeping. Yet he wondered if it was really him. Somehow that image fit the sleeping Ven right now.

“I basically was recruited after I told Riku. I’m also surprised to see Kairi already in the team long before me.” He chuckled.

“Now that I think about it… I don’t know anything about the keyblades. I already know that it came from Ansem. Naminé’s dad. But I don’t know anything else…Not even about you guys.” Roxas muttered.

Yeah, he didn’t know anything. Not even the fact that this team was assembled by his own foster father. They did a good job hiding it from him. And now, he’s hiding it from Ven.

“In that case, would you like to know?” Came the rough voice. It was Terra. It seemed like he overheard the two talking.

“Terra!” Sora exclaimed in surprise. Terra then took a seat next to the two and explained.

“…Ansem was a very good friend of the master. He was also a genius scientist. I was still a little kid back then. My father, Ansem, and another man. They were close friends. So close that they called among themselves as brothers. And, as Ansem opened the door to darkness, the heartless started to appear. Ansem tried his best to fix the wrongs, and so the Keyblades were born.” He sighed looking at his bare hands.

“The three of them used this keyblade to fight against the heartless. They made a good record until the other two disappeared. And so my father had no choice to pass the keyblade to me… and Aqua which was with me at that time.” He paused for a while, took a deep breath and then continued.

“Father, he was very guilty for dragging Aqua into this. And ten years later, foolish I did the same thing as him.” He said looking at Sora.

“You did the ceremony to Riku.” Sora stated. Terra nodded.

“He was really mad when I brought Riku with me.” Terra chuckled. “But once the ceremony has been made and the keyblade accepted, it can’t be canceled…” He said looking guilty.

“Then, what about Kairi?” Sora asked. “And Naminé?” Roxas added.

“Let’s start with Naminé first, shall we? When Ansem and the other person disappeared so suddenly, Father found Naminé, left alone and then took her to her uncle, which is Kairi’s father.” Terra explained until Sora butted-in.

“Naminé was really quiet back then.” Sora commented.

“Anyways, when the three of us were busting the Heartless at night as usual, she suddenly showed up.” Terra said.

“She what?” Roxas asked.

“She appeared. Telling us that there are more heartless coming. And she was right. Without her, we would be really screwed.” Terra sighed again. “We were all very surprised with her ability. But none of us knew why. Perhaps it was her relation to Ansem that gave her that power. She insisted in joining and thus has spent the days with us every night.”

“And then as said, I made Riku join… and Kairi…” He paused. “Kairi found out that Naminé has been sneaking out every night. She was very angry at us back then. However, she came at the wrong time. The heartless saw her and targeted her. Aqua came to her rescue, but she accidentally touched Aqua’s keyblade. And the keyblade acknowledged her.” Terra finished.

“Then… what about us?” Sora asked. Pointing at himself and Roxas. “I mean, I don’t think I’ve ever touched a keyblade before. Or meet someone who passed down the keyblade to me!” Sora stated.

“I’m sorry, but even the master didn’t know how the keyblade went to you two…” He said. But then he looked at Roxas. Terra’s eyes showed him the eyes of a knowing man. He was about to question him further when Naminé arrived. Telling them to get ready and that the Heartless will get here soon.

------------

Day Five : Thursday.

He felt a little better after knowing the other members’ past. He learned that Sora, Riku, Kairi, and Naminé were best friends ever since kids and that Terra and Aqua has been under Eraqus’s wings for 10 years or so. It must have been hard for the two. Training ever since a kid. No wonder they possessed the level of a master. Even though they claimed Eraqus to be far stronger than them.

In the end, he was the only one unrelated to other keyblade wielders aside from him and Ven being Eraqus’s adopted children. “…Wait a second. The master and our real father… He said they were friends… right?” He muttered to himself as he watched Ven sleeping. He was alone at the hospital room. Waiting for the boy to wake up.

“…Then, was the other person Terra mentioned… our father?” He asked to himself. Then again, he couldn’t even remember the faces of his own parents. There were no photographs, or anything left related to his and Ven’s family. Everything was burned down.

Yes, he remembered.

After all, he was the first to meet Eraqus at that time.

----------

They were at the outside. On a white flower bank. Ven was lying before him. His head was bleeding. He remembered screaming. He remembered how he shook Ven to wake him up. Ven was injured. But why on earth was he fine? Why was he… unhurt at all?

“Ventus! Roxas!” Cried a voice. It was a voice he never heard of. He kept Ven close and hugged him tightly. The voice was coming closer. There, came a face he had never known. That man’s face had burn marks. He could smell smoke coming from the man.

“W..who...?” Roxas asked. His voice shaked. He was preparing to run. He won’t let this man hurt them.

“Come with me, quick. The fire is spreading, and we have to tend your brother’s wound. Don’t worry, I’m a friend to your father.” He offered a hand. He wanted to refuse. But that man was right. They need to tend Ven’s injuries.

And with that, he took that man’s hands. The man which was now his and Ventus’s foster father.

Ironically, neither him nor Ventus ever recall what happened before their arrival at the flower bank. Whenever he asked Eraqus, he was only told that an accident happened and their parents died in the flame.

There were no ceremonies because there are no known relatives.

He became the only one for Ventus. And Ventus became the only family to him.

“That’s right… you’re my only family…” He muttered as he pinched Ven’s nose slightly. “I won’t forgive you if you won’t wake up, Ven.” He said with a sigh.

------------

Day Six : Friday

“Come to think of it, I never thanked you properly for saving my butt.” He said to Riku when they finally meet in the nightshift. He hardly ever found Riku in school. He seemed to be the loner type of a man. He’d bump to Sora and Kairi sometimes. But he never saw the silverette.

“Well, you did now.” Riku replied.

Riku was a man of few words. The quiet guy. He talked less, remained as an observant all the time. Yet he could think with clear head all the time.

“What was that thing, though? You know, the one behind you at that time.” He asked. Riku seemed to be hesitant in answering.

“That was… my guardian.” He answered.

“Guardian?”

“Well, sort of.” He chuckled.

“Sort of? What is that supposed to mean?” Roxas sighed. Here he thought Riku was the cool guy.

“The only thing I know about it is that… it came from here.” He said as he placed his hand on his chest. “It has always been there. My…darkness.” He said as he stood up from where he sat. Then he walked away.

“Anyways, you don’t need to worry about this. This is for me to settle. You guys just focus on the Heartless.” He said before finally disappeared into the white room.

“…Whatever you say.” He muttered and followed suit.

------------

Last Day : Saturday

Last night’s work ended faster than usual. There are less Heartless roaming around that Roxas decided to stay at the hospital again.

It was uncomfortable sleeping on a chair with your head resting on the wall. But faintly, he could listen to Ven’s light snores. That alone became a lullaby that lulled him to sleep.

He woke up to find Ven crying river.

Roxas was weak in the morning. He couldn’t say anything to the bawling Ven. He felt joy in his heart. Ven is awake. He’s finally awake… and this is the usual Ven. The usual cheerful and worrywart Ven.

His older twin started to blurt out everything. Which he already knew. And he knew that he had to keep an act. He tried to make it look like Ven was dreaming everything up. Surprisingly, it worked so easy that Ven stopped crying. Gazing at his older twin, he couldn’t help but laugh.

“Your face is priceless.” He chuckled.

----------------------------------------------

Yay, I revealed some of the twin's past CX

Nisie · January 9, 2012

-sorry for triple posting, I had trouble posting. .-. -

Hunter Hawk · January 9, 2012

A-W-S-O-M-E JOB!!! I really liked that chapter! I was so epic, reading a flashback and some of Roxy's and Venny past. Keep updating your awsome work, cuz I and my bro will always be there to read it!

replika13 · January 11, 2012

so cool ^^

Nisie · February 2, 2012

A/N: I finally updated. ._. I'm sorry for the very long wait.

------------------------

Chapter 10 :

“Roxas!” Hayner called as he waved his hand to inform Roxas their location.

Upon Ventus’s awakening, Roxas has finally returned to himself. It felt like a huge hole within his heart has been filled.

“I heard your brother finally recovered. Congratulations.” Olette smiled. He smiled back in return.

“Say, Roxas, do you know? They said that this school has seven wonders!” Pence started. Roxas looked at him with a confused face. “Like, THE seven wonders?” He asked. The fat boy nodded and then showed him his small pocketbook.

“Okay, the first one is the roaring sound at the school’s auditorium building. It seems like a monster appear there at night since the sound can only be heard at night. The second one is a ghost that appears in the hallway. Next is a talking mirror at the third floor. You know, the one at the staircase.” He explained them one by one. It sparked little interest in Roxas’s eyes, however it burned the spirit of someone else’s

“Is that true?!” Sora suddenly barged in. His eyes shone brightly with interest. Ven was following from behind. “What are you talking about?” He asked calmly until he noticed Roxas. “Roxas? That’s rare for you to come here.” He teased.

“Erm, well, I kinda need to do my homework. And library is the best place, don’t you think? Besides…” He looked at Sora and snorted. “I never thought you’d be here, Sora.” He teased.

“What does that mean?” Sora pouted angrily. His cheeks resembled that of a squirrel.

“You must be Ventus.” Olette added as she approached him and congratulate him for getting out from the hospital. In which Ven thanked her in return.

The three then introduced themselves, and then eyed Sora with curiosity. Sora chuckled and introduced himself as “Ven’s friend.” At which Roxas eyed Sora in suspicion. ‘When did Sora and Ven started hanging out, anyways?’ He thought, but then decided to let it slip away.

“Well, the library committee is at your service, how can I help you?” Ven asked.

“Is there any reference book for Chemistry?” Pence asked. Ven chuckled and then turned to pick a book from his and Sora’s desk. “Will this one do?” He asked. Pence jumped in surprise when Ven held out that book.

“Whoa! That’s really the one we need!” Pence exclaimed. “You don’t mind, do you, Sora?” He asked, the brunette shook his head and then smiled.

“Yeah, I’m done with that one.” He replied as Ven handed them the book. Pence hummed as he took the book, but then paused as he examined Ven and Sora’s face.

“Hmm?” He muttered when he examined Sora’s face, and then Ven’s face closer. “That’s funny, you guys look like each other!” Pence stated, then looked at Roxas. “Guess what, we have three people that look alike here.” He laughed as Hayner and Olette started examining their face as well.

“That’s true… Sora looks like Roxas and Ven a bit.” Olette said as she examined the three.

“Could it be that you guys are actually triplets?” Hayner teased.

“Oh guys, come on. That’s not funny.” Sora sighed, and then crossed his arm while Roxas just looked at Sora with disbelieving eyes.

“Sorry, but you really look similar, you know.” Pence stated then returned to his homework.

“Well, I’ll bring the other books for you.” Ven said as he disappeared to the other shelves with Olette thanking him in the process.

With Ven gone, Roxas immediately grab Sora and then pulled him somewhere else. “Sorry guys, I need to talk to him for a while.” Roxas said to his friends with a somewhat demonic look on his face. Sora couldn’t do anything but to obey while the three just watched the two fled.

“…Siblings fight, huh?” Hayner said as he nibbled his pencil. “…To me it looks like Roxas’s jealous?” Olette giggled while Pence hummed in agreement.

The two settled down in the corner of the library. Roxas had a somewhat angry look on his face while Sora faced him with a sheepishly face.

“So?” Roxas mumbled. Sora laughed nervously in response and then asked. “…err…so…what?” He asked nervously. This Roxas was somehow scary.

“Just how did you and Ven get along?” He asked in somewhat murderous tone.

“…just now? I mean, I asked Ven to help me with the chemistry homework since he looked smart. I mean, Riku and Kairi won’t help me… soo…” He said as he tried to look for help. It appeared to him that Roxas could kill him at any minute, now.

When suddenly, Roxas calmed down.

“…I don’t like it.” He said. Sora blinked at him. “…You look like him.” Roxas added.

“Who? Ven?” Sora asked, his voice quite relieved when he saw Roxas calmed down. But then Roxas glared at him again. He even hissed at him this time.

“…That guy with black hair.” Roxas answered. This time, Sora quieted down.

“You reminded me of him. That guy… he used Ven like a toy. I don’t like him.” Roxas huffed. Sora only sighed in response.

“…Well, I’m sorry?” Sora asked. Roxas looked at him and then sighed. “…No, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t get angry at you like this. Sorry…” Roxas replied as he flumped on the table. Cooling himself down on the using the table’s surface.

“So… let’s go back?” Sora offered. Roxas took a deep breath before he calmed himself down and then smiled at Sora. “Yeah.” He smiled.

------------

Ven walked deeper and deeper to the other side of the library. He’d walked past through the chemistry shelves. Down to the backside of the library was a small room with many organized files and old books. No students ever bother to check on the archive room as it was usually left empty. Ventus went there alone. Yet he knew that he wasn’t by himself.

“…So?” He muttered as he turned to see a smirking black haired laying his back on the wall. His golden eyes eyeing on Ven as if he was his prey.

“What do you want… Vanitas?” Ven asked.

The black haired, whom Ven called Vanitas chuckled. “Oh? So you’ve remembered my name?” Vanitas teased. The blond just leered at him angrily.

“Just what are you? Why do you look like Sora?!” He asked in an angry tone.

“…So you haven’t retrieve everything back, huh? That’s too bad. Well, can’t really blame you. Anyways, I’ve found the best way to return your memories.” He said as he approached Ven and snickered.

“My… memories? What do you mean?” He felt really weak whenever Vanitas approached him. As if his soul was absorbed. Ven tried to keep his balance. He didn’t want to be used by Vanitas again. He fought back the whatever pressure that pushed him into this state.

Vanitas was only a few inches away from him now. Ven could feel the dizziness on his head. The boy then whispered on his ear.

“I’m more than just your illusions, Ventus.” He snickered and then walked away. Ventus gasped for air when the pressure suddenly disappeared. He fell to the ground and then tried to gather his strength.

“Wait!” Ven yelled as he chased after the boy. But stopped soon after he exited the archive room. Vanitas has vanished.

“…If he said that those are my memories… then… was everything… was what I saw… true?” He said looking at the ceilings with a grim look. Remembering himself lunged down to Roxas, almost killing him.

‘Empty creature from Ventus riven. To you, the name Vanitas shall be given.’ A voice echoed through his head as he remembered an image of Vanitas waking up with empty eyes. The dream he had when he was knocked unconscious for the past week. And the thought of Vanitas was actually just an illusion he saw.

Everything… was true.

----------

“…Ven’s taking a long time, isn’t he?” Olette asked in a worried tone. “Oh! There he is!” Pence exclaimed as he pointed at the blond.

“Here are the books… where’re Roxas and Sora?” Ven said with a faked smile.

“They left after you left. I’m sure they will be back soon, though.” Hayner said and then chuckled when he saw the said pair appeared.

“See?” He said as he pointed at the two. Ven smiled in relief seeing the two together. Then returned to his seat.

“If you don’t hurry, Professor.Vexen is gonna be angry, you know.” Pence exclaimed. Roxas hurried and sped up his work. Sora mimicking him.

However, the bell rang just when they were about to continue.

“…Good luck, both of you.” Hayner said, patting Roxas’s back, who grimaced at the sound of the bell.

----------

“I made fruit salad today!” Naminé exclaimed happily. Roxas smiled with joy at her. “Is that so? Then it’s good.” He smiled. However, his smile was somewhat different than usual. Today it felt like flowers were scattering behind him.

“…what exactly happened, Roxas?” Naminé asked, sweatdropping in the process.

“So that’s what happened.” Naminé smiled after she heard Roxas’s story. It was simple, actually. Roxas has been restless when time reached the sixth period, which was chemistry class. However, he was saved by Vexen’s sudden illness or whatever reason that made him unable to teach today. He was really happy when he heard the news.

“I bet that teacher fell ill from drinking his own potion or whatever.” Roxas chuckled. Naminé just watched him and smiled in relief.

“I’m glad, Roxas.” She said, suddenly. Which caught his attention. “I was really worried past this last week. But… seeing you today, I’m really happy that you returned to yourself.” She smiled.

“Naminé…” Roxas muttered. He didn’t know that he made her feel this way. He smiled and then patted her head. “Thanks.” He smiled. Naminé only blushed in return.

“I-it’s nothing. W-we’re friends, so… thi-this kind of thing is normal.” She said while blushing. “Besides…” She paused, then smiled at Roxas. “You helped me with my cooking. You gave me more confidence. I… really like it… the way you smile when you eat my cooking… although my cooking is bad.” She muttered as she closed her eyes.

“I like you too, Naminé.” Roxas chuckled. Then realized what he just said and blushed madly. Naminé blushed even redder and covered her mouth with her hands. Perhaps, preventing her from shouting whatever it is written in her mind.

Roxas was left speechless after realizing what he just said. His heart beat faster and his face went red. He just stared at Naminé and there was the awkward moment.

“Thank you.” She squeaked with a really small voice. He nodded.

That day they spent quietly with their hearts thumping.

‘Is this… love?’ He thought.

------------------------------------

replika13 · February 2, 2012

keep up the good work there ^^

Hunter Hawk · February 2, 2012

No offense, but why did you put the chapter that you have already posted?

Either way, I love your writing!

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