One Destiny "The Ballad of Truth" Ch.10 The End (DDD spoilers)

[spirit-of-light]

Chapter IV

The Darkness in the Light

****

Zane held out his hand.“Nice to meet you Veritas.” I politely shook his hand.

“So what do you guys suggest we do about the worlds?” I asked. I assumed they would know a good place start.

“Let’s talk about this somewhere else.” Zane said. Rain placed Sky in his crib and we made our way to the grand hall. Zane was about to say something before Dawn interrupted him.

“The world was broken into many smaller worlds. If that wasn’t bad enough they are all covered in darkness.”

“How many worlds are there?” I asked.

“We don’t know; there are possibly an infinite number of worlds.”

“Oh.” I felt a hopeless. I could never restore all the worlds; no matter how hard I tried.

Dawn could see the sense of hopelessness on my face. “Cheer up; there is a way to restore all of them.”

I quickly perked back up. “How?!”

“There exist seven hearts of pure light. If we can gather them together, we will be able to restore all the worlds.”

I was glad to ber eassured. I knew with their help I would be able to restore the worlds. Then I realized something. “If you knew this why did you come find me?”

“Isn’t it obvious? We can’t use their light, and you can.” Blaze said. Like after all of Blaze’s comments, Julie hit him. “Will you quit?!”

“I will after you quit being such a smart-aleck.” Then she smiled at me. “What he was trying to say was you can command the light inside people.”

“Was that what I did?” I latter found out that my Master implanted that ability inside me. When he placed the light inside me the ability came with it.

“So now that that’s out of the way, do you mind telling us about yourself?” Zane asked.

I decided to only tell them half the truth; I’m pretty good at that. “When the war broke out my Master brought Sky and I here. He told me to use the light inside children to restore the worlds.”

“So who was your master?”

“He didn’t stay in touch with the others.”

“That would explain why we’ve never met you before.”

Then I decided to ask aquestion that had been bugging me for a while. “Are you guys all the Keyblade wielders left?”

“We don’t know yet, there are two others besides us.”

“Who?”

“There’s Dawns brother Arc and then there’s Vergil.”

I did my best to hide my fear. If Vergil found out about me, he wouldn’t hesitate to tell them. Or worse, come after me.

Dawn knew I had something on my mind. “Did he say something wrong?”

“No, it’s nothing.” I then changed the subject. “If you guys don’t have anywhere to go you can stay here. The castle has plenty of rooms.”

“Are you sure? Wew ouldn’t want to intrude.”

“Think nothing of it. It will nice to be around people again.” I then escorted them to the castles spare rooms. Dawn was the last person to receive a room. As I showed her the room I asked her a question. Looking back, it probably wasn’t the greatest question to ask. “Why are your eyes like that?”

She just ignored me.“Good night Veritas.”

I returned to my room and contemplated the day’s events. I knew with their help I could fulfill my Masters wish. But what would I do after that? I figured I would just cross that bridge when I came to it. Considering what was going to happen I should have thought it out more.

The following morning we all met in the grand hall.

“So where do start looking for the seven hearts?” I asked.

“We should be able to sense them when were close.” Dawn replied.

“Then let’s go.” Then I remembered Sky. “Can someone watch Sky?”

Amelia volunteered for the task. “I’ll do it.”

“Thank you.” We divided into teams of two; Blaze and Julie, Zane and Rain, and Dawn and I.“Let’s meet up here when we’re done.” We all summoned a corridor and setout.



Dawn and I arrived in front of a beautiful white castle. The first thing I noticed was this world was devoid of darkness.

“One of the hearts must be here.” Dawn said.

“Looks like.” I replied. Dawn and I made our way to the castle gates; there we were stopped bya guard.

“Who goes?” The guard asked.

“We’re looking for a recently born child.” Dawn said.

“The only child that has been born in sometime is the princess.” The guard replied.

“May we see her?”

“Why do you seek the princess?” Dawn explained the situation to the guard. “I see you may enter.” The guard opened the gate, and we walked inside the castle. The guard escorted us to a throne room; there the queen was sitting. “You are in the presence of Queen Elizabeth.” Dawn and I politely bowed. The guard then took his leave.

“So what do I owe this visit?” Elizabeth asked. Dawn explained the situation once again. “You two must be looking for Shannon.” She exited the room, and then returned with a baby in her arms. I could sense a strong light inside the girl. “So she can help restore all the worlds?”

“Correct.” Dawn said. “As soon as we find the other six.”

“I’ll await your return then.”

Dawn summoned a corridor, and we left.



We returned to The Land of Departure; the first thing I did was check on Sky. I found Amelia passed out with him in her arms. I returned to the grand hall; where Dawn was waiting.
“It seems the others haven’t come back yet.”

“Oh.” I decided to take this time to get to know her better. “So where are you from?”

“My home was destroyed by the darkness.”

“Oh.” I felt bad for bring up such a bad memory.

“Don’t worry about it; my home was taken long before the war started.”

“What do you mean?”

“These creatures called Heartless came when I was a child.”

“Heartless?”Dawn then explained to me to process of creating Heartless, and their goal.

“After that, my brother and master took me in.”

“So where did the Heartless come from, and why did they attack you?”

“I’m not sure where they came from, but my master said they came for my heart.” I could see the pain on Dawns face, so I tried to cheer her up.

“That must mean you have a strong heart.”

She began to blush. “You sound like my master.”

I smiled at her.“Then that means we’re right.” Now that the topic of darkness was brought up, I decided to test her. “How do feel about the darkness?”

She took a deep breath and began to speak. “I hate it, it twist and corrupts everything it touches.”

“Oh.” My suspicions we’re right after all. I guess she was like Vergil.

****

As I finished,Umbra punched me in the face. “What was that for!?”

“Don’t you ever compare her to him again!”

I didn’t feel like starting an argument. “Fine.” But I wondered why he was so touchy about Dawn in the first place.

****

Anyway, before Dawn could respond Zane, Blaze, Rain and Julie showed up.

“Did you guys find anything?” I asked.

“Nothing on our end.” Blaze said.

“Same here.” Rain chimed in. “What about you two?”

“We found one.”I replied.

“At least it’s a start.” Zane replied.

Over the course of the next few weeks we searched for the other hearts. Since the hearts were inside girls we called them The Princesses of Heart. In that time I got to know Dawn better. We became friends, but I still couldn’t tell her about my past; especially since she hated the darkness. We eventually found all of the hearts, except for one. Then Amelia came to me with some news.

“Veritas, we found the last heart.”

“That’s great, where is it?” I was ecstatic at thought of fulfilling my master’s wish.

“It’s in Radiant Garden.”

“Then what are we waiting for? Let’s go.”



Amelia and I went to Radiant Garden. Like all the worlds where the hearts of pure light were, it was devoid of darkness. Amelia guided to a small house.

“She’s in there.” Amelia said.

I knocked on the door, and a man answered. He had short brown hair, and a thin mustache. “May I help you?” I explained the situation to him. “I’m sorry she can’t help you.”

I was shocked at his response. “What!? I don’t think you realize what’s going on.”

“I do, and I won’t have her placed in harm’s way.”

“I promise nothing will happen to her.”

“I said no.” He slammed the door in our faces.

“Well what do we do now?” Amelia asked.

“Go to the castle, I’ll figure something out.” I replied.

“Okay then.”Amelia summoned a corridor and left.

I then knocked on the door once again. The man opened it, then immediately went to close it. I put my foot in the door.

“Why didn’t you go to the cross roads?”

The man was clearly shocked by the question. “I…don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“I know that you’re a Keyblade wielder.” I could tell since the moment I saw him.

There was a long pause till the man spoke. “Come in.” He led to a small room; there I baby girl was sleeping.

“What’s her name?”

“Hikari.” Even as a baby she had long red hair.

“So why didn’t you go fight?”

“My wife and I were both Keyblade Masters. Before the war broke out I learned that she was pregnant. I didn’t want my daughter growing up without a father, so I stayed behind. Then the worst happened. My wife died during child birth, and I’ve been raising Hikari ever since. I don’t want here involved in any of this. I just want her to live a normal life.”

“I know what you mean. All you want is for them to be safe. You don’t want anything bad to ever happen to them.” The man chuckled at me. “What’s so funny?”

“Aren’t you a little young to be a father.”

I was a little embarrassed. “Oh! It’s nothing like that. I just know what it’s like to have to raise a child on your own.”

“It defiantly isn’t easy.”

“You can say that again.”

“Okay then.”

“Huh?”

“My daughter will help you.”

“Thank you, I promise no harm will come to her.”

“You better hope not.” Then he began to cough. As he did so I saw blood coming from his mouth.

“Are you okay?”

“It’s nothing.”

I could tell he didn’t want to talk about his health. So I summoned a corridor and left.



With the last of princesses found, we brought them to the cross roads. I thought it was a very fitting location. The others placed the seven girls around me, and I began the process. Light began to flow out of their hearts and into my blade. I had neverf elt so much power before; it was a little over whelming. I pressed through and fired the light into the sky. The light spread through the sky, beyond my sight.

“Did it work?” Dawn asked.

“I think so.” I replied. “I couldn’t have done it without you guys.”

“You’re welcome.” Rain said.

We were about to leave, then I started to feel something tugging on my heart. I then realized that it was the darkness in me. It must have been trying to break the seal. I latter found out that this was because my light was starting to push out my darkness. Instead of dealing with this, I chose to ignore it.



When we returned to The Land of Departure, I found an uninvited guest.

“Where have you been Vergil?” Zane asked.

“I should ask you the same thing. I heard that you were able to purge the worlds ofdarkness.”

“We sure did.” Blaze gave me a pat on the back. “And it’s all thanks to him.”

“Yes, where are my manners, I’m Vergil. And you are?” Vergil held out his hand.

I didn’t know why he was acting that way around me. But I shook his hand for appearances sake. “I’m Veritas.”

“Pleasure to meet you Veritas. May all of you leave; I’d like to talk to our new friend alone.” The others did as Vergil asked.

Now that the others had left, I decided to confront Vergil. “Why didn’t you tell them?”

“I see no reason to reveal you past to them. After all, you have redeemed yourself in my eyes.”

“I can’t be redeemed.”

“Come now of cour/”

“I can’t be redeemed because I’ve done nothing wrong.” I always hated when Vergil talked down to me.

“So you’re still a creature of the dark.” Vergil summoned a corridor. “Very well then I willl eave you be. But I should warn you. Stay away from Dawn. Arc isn’t as tolerant as I.” Vergil then left.

****

“If I were you, I would have killed Vergil right there.” Umbra said.

“Even if I did want to kill him, that would only put Sky in danger.”

“So you were afraid?”

“It wasn’t like that.”

“Speaking offear, Sky appears to be afraid.”

“Then let’s go.” Umbra engulfed us in the light.



We arrived in one of The Land of Departures spare rooms. There Hikari was laying on a table with Amelia at one end and Sky at the other. Sky was holding her hand, while she letting out screams of pain.

“Is she gonna be okay? I’ve never seen her in so much pain.” Sky asked.

Amelia remained calm. “Of course she is you just worry about keeping her as relaxed as possible.”

Sky put on a goofy smile.“I don’t think that’s gonna be possible.” As Sky spoke Hikari punched him in the gut. When her fist made contact, he dropped to the ground.

“SHUT UP!”Hikari screamed.

“Hikari calm down he’s just trying to help. Sky get up, you’re a Keyblade Master start acting like one.” Sky got to his feet, and held Hikari’s hand once again. “Now Hikari, give me one big push okay.” Hikari let out one last ear shattering scream. Then the three became quiet, as we heard the baby crying. Amelia wrapped the baby in a blanket. “It’s a girl.”

I could tell Sky was disappointed about not having a son. I guess naming his child after me must have meant a lot to him. “Can you check again?” Sky said. Hikari then punched him once again, and as with last time he fell to the ground. I realized I should have taught him when to keep quiet.

Sky got up and went to grab his daughter, but Amelia stopped him. “Sorry, the mother sees her first.” Amelia placed the baby next to Hikari. Even though she had just endued the pain of giving birth, she could still smile. “What are you going to name her?”

Hikari smiled atSky. “We’ll name her Kirei.”

“What a beautiful name.”



Umbra and I returned to The Realm of Death.

“That was beautiful, don’t you think?” I asked.

“There was nothing beautiful about what we just saw.”

“C’mon it’s the miracle of life.”

“Not all life begins that way.”

“Yeah, you and Sky just appeared.”

“I’ve meaning to ask you something?”

“What is that?”I thought he was going to ask where babies come from. But I was wrong.

“When Sky and I were born, how strong were our hearts?”

I thought it was a rather odd question. “Now that I think about Sky’s heart wasn’t very strong when he was a baby. His light nothing compared to that of the princesses.”

“Why do you think that is?”

I didn’t really have an answer. I thought the heart of Kye would be stronger. “I don’t know.”

“Anyway back to your story.”

“Okay, this is when Sky gets his Keyblade.”

“And where I’m cast into the darkness.”

[spirit-of-light]

Chapter V

I’m Sorry

****

After Vergil left the others returned.

“What did you and Vergil talk about?” Zane asked.

“He just wanted to thank me.” I was still angry about Vergil’s words.

“Is something wrong?” Dawn asked.

“No.” I quickly changed the subject. “What are you guys going to now?”

“Find new homes and train apprentices.” Zane said.

“Sounds like a plan big brother.” Julie spoke.

“Wait a sec! Zane’s your brother?” I could never have imagined Zane and Julie being brother and sister.

“Yep, we’re actually twins.”

“Huh!?”

“Don’t feel bad; I thought the same thing when they told me.” Blaze said.

“If I remember right you couldn’t even speak.” Zane said.

“What did you expect?” Blaze replied.

“Well that’s enough small talk. We have a long road ahead of us.” Zane said.

“Yep, hopefully I can find a world by with a beach.” Amelia chimed in. Everyone except Dawn summoned a corridor and left.

I wondered why Dawn would stay. “Is there something wrong?”

“No, it’s just…”

“You can tell me.”

“I don’t know where to go.”

I smiled at her.“If you don’t have somewhere to go you can stay here.”

“You mean it.” Dawn returned the smile.

“Of course Ido.” I was excited at the thought of Dawn living with me. I didn’t know why I felt that way, but I felt a strong connection to her. But my hopes were quickly dashed.

“So this is where you’ve been.” A boy appeared in a corridor. The boy had blond slicked back blonde hair; with two bangs in the shape of lightning bolts framing his face.

Dawn ran up and hugged him. “Arc! Where have you been?”

“I’ve had to help Vergil with something.”

“It doesn’t matter I’m just glad you’re back.”

Arc then turned his attention to me. “Who is this?”

“That’s Veritas he helped us restore the worlds.”

“Thank you for taking care of my sister.”

“No problem.” Even then I could sense a great power inside Arc. It was almost frightening.

“At any rate we should go Dawn.”

“Okay. See ya Veritas.” Dawn and Arc left. As I was alone I wondered what I should do next. Everyone else was going to train others. I figured I should do the same. I wondered where to look for an apprentice. I didn’t know why I was thinking about it when I already knew the answer. There was only one person I would train; Sky. I knew what could happen if I trained him. The power he could wield would be unimaginable. But I remembered what my master had told me. So I decided to wait and see if Sky could wield a Keyblade; and then train him.



Four years had passed, and then one day Sky came to me.

“Master what’s this?” Sky then summoned his Keyblade. I was shocked that he could produce a Keyblade; especially since I hadn’t preformed The Inheritance Ceremony on him.

“That’s a Keyblade.”

“Like yours?”

“Yep, you’ve been given a great responsibility.”

“Sounds like a drag.” Even as a child Sky was lazy.

“Well no one’s forcing you. You don’t have to wield it if you don’t want to.” At least I can say I never forced the Keyblade on him.

“I see what you’re trying to do. You’re just trying to get out of teaching me.”

“I’m doing no so such thing.”

“Whatever, you’re not gonna get out of teaching me that easy.”

“Okay then we’ll start tomorrow.”

“C’mon why can’t we start now?”

“You won’t be talking like that tomorrow. Now go rest up.”

“Fine then.” Sky left the room. I was proud of him. Not only could he wield the Keyblade at such a young age, but he produced one all on his own. Then my thoughts drifted to you. I wondered if you were able to wield a Keyblade as well. But my train of thought was interrupted by Blaze.

“Sup.” Blaze said.

“Nothing what are you up to?”

“I came here to invite you to the wedding.”

“Did Zane finally ask Rain?” I said jokingly.

“Don’t be stupid. Mine and Julie’s of course.”

“How did you pull that off?” Even though Julie didn’t care for Blaze when they were young; they eventually developed feelings for each other.

“I just asked her, and she said yes.”

“And what does Zane think? I can’t imagine he would be just let you marry his sister.”

“The big guy acts tough, but deep down he’s a softy.”

“I know, so what are you guy’s gonna do after you get married?”

“We’ve decided to give up the Keyblades and settle down.”

“The normal life huh?”

“Yeah, she wants to have a family.” I couldn’t tell him, but I was jealous. I wanted a life where I didn’t have to constantly watch my back. “Well enough about me, what are you up to?”

“Sky got his Keyblade today.”

“Isn’t he al ittle young to have the ceremony preformed on him.”

“I didn’t.”

“He must have a really strong heart then.”

“That he does.”

“So what’s with you and Dawn?”

I could feel my face turning red. “What brought that up?”

“C’mon buddy. You’ve had a crush on her since the moment you met her.”

He was right.There had always been a connection between Dawn and me, but I never had the courage to act on it. I didn’t feeling talking about it with Blaze so I changed the subject. “So when’s the wedding?”

“Next week.”

“Okay then, Sky and I will be there.”

“See you then.” Blaze disappeared in a corridor.



The following day, Vergil summoned me to his castle. I didn’t know why he wanted to talk to me.I suspected it was a set up, so I was ready for anything.

“What do you want Vergil?” I asked.

“I heard your half produced a Keyblade.”

“What of it? What about yours, can he wield a Keyblade too.”

“No.”

“What did your Master name him?”

“Caelum.”

“Nice name.”

“It doesn’t matter now.”

“What do you mean?”

“Not that it concerns you, but I’m going to cast him in the darkness.”

“WHAT!?” I knew Vergil hated the darkness, but I didn’t know he would something like that to a child. I knew I had to try and changed his mind. “Give him a chance.”

“That boy is a monster. All he is is darkness.”

“He’s just a kid. You need to guide him.”

“Like you! You know we we’re forbidden to train them.” Vergil spoke the truth. We weren’t suppose to train you and Sky until the world was ready.

“They can use their powers for good.”

“The darkness is evil.”

“No it’s not! It’s the same as the light.”

“I was charged with keeping him. I’ll decide what to do with him.”

“Don’t do it Vergil. I’ll give you time to change your mind.” I summoned a corridor and took my leave.



Deep down I knew what Vergil would do. I knew I could have stopped him, but I was afraid. Not for myself, but for Sky. If I did go after Vergil he would just turn the others against me. Then he would go after Sky.

That night I received a knock on the castle gates. When I got to the gates, I found Dawnc rying.

“What’s wrong?”

“It’s nothing.”

“It doesn’t look like nothing.”

Dawn wiped the tears from her face. “I just…”

“You don’t have to talk about it if you don’t want to.”

“Can we just sit here or a while.”

“Sure.” We sat on the castle steps in silence.

“They're called The Eyes of Kingdom Hearts.” Dawn said.

“Huh?”

“My eyes, they're called The Eyes of Kingdom Hearts.”

I had neverheard of such a thing. “What do they do?”

“I can see the future.”

“That’sincredible! Can you see everything?”

“I only see visions every now and again.”

“What have you seen anything about me.”

“I’ve seen your death.”

“Oh, how do I die?”

“Are you sure you want to know?”

I was very hesitant, but my curiosity got the best of me. “Sure.” Even now I regret asking her.

“In eleven years, when Sky becomes a Keyblade Master a great darkness will come. It will cause chaos in the worlds, and you will die by its hands.” I couldn’t saya nything. Dawn wrapped her arms around me. “There’s one good thing about knowing when you’ll die?”

“What’s that?”

“You make every moment count.” Dawn leaned in and kissed me.

****

“So she really did care.” Umbra said.

“Yeah, she cared for both of us.” I said.

“Where do you think she is?”

“I’ve been wondering that for eleven years.” Then I saw a light over Umbra’s chest. “So how’s Sky?”

“He’s feeling angry.”

“About what?”

“Let’s find out.” Umbra engulfed us in the light.



We arrived on along metal bridge. In the distance I could see the ruins of a large city. I then recognized the city as Zanarkand. Sky was standing on the bridge with us, along with an old man. The man was wearing white and green clothes, with a strange pointed hat.

“How long has it been?” I asked.

“It’s been a year since Kirei’s birth.”

“What happened here?” Sky asked.

“There was a great war between Zanarkand and Bevelle. Zanarknad was unable to combat Bevelle’s machina, and was quickly defeated. At the end of the war a monster called Sin appeared. Sin destroyed Zanarkand and any other city that was powered by machina.”

“Why did Bevelle attack?”

“There were always tensions between the two. But I did hear a rumor.”

“What?”

“Bevelle sent a reconnaissance squad to investigate Zanarkand. Then the squad was attacked, and Bevelle responded with extreme aggression.”

“How long since the war?”

“It has been three years.”

Sky suddenly got a look of shock on his face. “This is my fault.”

“What do you mean?”

“Nothing.” Sky summoned a corridor. “Do you know what happened to Lenne and Shuyin?”

“They were captured by Bevelle. I don’t know what happened to them after that.”

“Thanks for telling me all of this, and I’m sorry.” Sky disappeared through the corridor.



We then arrived in The Land of Departure’s courtyard. There Sky was standing before Zane.

“What is it Sky?” Zane asked.

“Tell the others not to interfere in the affairs of other worlds.”

“Why?”

“We’re not peace keepers. If the darkness comes then we’ll act, but nothing else.”

“I see your point. I’ll inform the others.”

“Thank you.” Then Umbra and I returned to The Real of Death.



“He’s growing up.” Umbra said.

“Having a child will do that to you.” There was an awkward silence between the two of us. “Umbra.”

“Yeah.”

“For what it’s worth, I am sorry. I should have helped you, but instead I chose to stand by and watch.” I was waiting for Umbra to dash my apology away.

“Don’t worry about it.”

“Huh?” I didn’t expect that sort of response.

“I know I was wrong to blame you. I was just angry.”

“I’ll take that as “apology accepted.”

“I should have listened to Dawn.”

“What do you mean?”

“She told me not to blame others for my destiny; that I shouldn’t try to hide who I was.”

I decided to finally ask Umbra something that had been bugging me. “What was the deal with you and Dawn?”

“I told you, she was the only glimmer of light in my life. She was the only one who treated me like a human being.”

“Do you still miss her?”

“I never stopped. What about you? What happened between you two?”

“Something I will always regret.”

[spirit-of-light]

Chapter VI

The Broken Hearted

****

The following morning I awoke on the castle steps, with Dawn lying beside me. To be honest I don’t remember what happened the night before. The only thing I knew was I felt happy; the happiest I had felt in a long time.

“Good morning.”I hadn’t noticed that Dawn had woken up.

“Good morning.” I said smiling.

“What do you want to do today?” She asked.

I didn’t really care what I did, as long as I was with her. “There you are!” I turned to see Sky standing behind us.

“What’s up Sky?”I asked.

“Let’s get this training over with.”

“Well…” I had promised to train Sky, but I still wanted to spend time with Dawn.

“Why don’t you take the day off?” Dawn said.

“What do you think Sky?”

“Sure, beats training anyway. So what are we gonna do?”

“How about we go to the beach?”

“Sweet, let’s go!”

“Is that okay with you Veritas?”

I smiled at both of them. “Sure.”

“Okay, I have to go get ready, so I’ll be back in a few minutes.” Dawn summoned a corridor and left.

“You should get ready too Sky.”

“Na, I’ll just swim in my shorts. What about you?”

“I don’t swim.”The only reason I said this was to hide the seal on my heart. It would be hard to miss the black heart with a white X over it on my chest, especially in broad day light.

Dawn then returned to us. “So you ready to go?”

“Yeah.” I replied.

Dawn summoned a corridor, and we all entered.



We arrived on a small island, with an even larger island in the distance.

“Sweet.” Sky cried. He quickly stripped down to his shorts and jumped into the water. “C’mon guys!”

“Okay.” Dawn took off her coat, revealing a black pink one piece. I couldn’t help but stare.“Are you coming too?” I quickly turned my gaze else where.

“Na.”

“Fine then, your loss.” Dawn dove in the water with Sky. They played for a while, while sat and watched. I wished my life could have stayed like that forever. Where I was surrounded by the people I loved.

Then Dawn came out of the water and sat next to me. “He has a lot of energy.”

“He’s always been that way.”

Sky got out of the water as well, and sat next to us. “C’mon Dawn, you’re quitting already.”

Dawn smiled at him. “Sorry Sky, guess I can’t keep up.”

“Guess that’s what happens when you get old.”

“I’m not old!”Dawn cried.

I just sat there and laughed. I had forgotten to teach Sky not to comment on a woman’s age, or her weight for that matter.

“What are you laughing at!?” Dawn said turning her attention to me. “We’re the same age.”

“Maybe I am getting old, I already have the hair.”

“True that Veritas.” Sky said laughing.

We sat on the beach until the sun began to set.

“The perfect ending to the perfect day.” Dawn said.

“Yep.” Sky replied.

I just sat there in silence. I was overwhelmed with happiness. I just wish I would have made it last longer. “Are you guys ready to go?” I asked.

Dawn let out a yawn. “Yeah, I’m pretty tired.” Dawn and Sky got dressed and we left.



We returned to The Land of Departure. Sky and I went to our respective rooms. As I laid in my bed I saw Dawn standing in my door way.

“I thought you would have gone home.”

Then she spoke in the most sensual tone I had ever heard. “Can I sleep with you again?”

“Again?”


The following morning I woke up with Dawn beside me. Just as the other night I couldn’t remember what had happened. I wondered why I couldn’t remember anything, but just as before I woke up feeling happy. Then I noticed Dawn waking up beside me.

She smiled at me. “Good morning.”

“Good morning.”

Over the course of the next week Dawn continued to stay with us. Our days consisted of training Sky and spending time together. The nights on the other hand were just as the first two. Every time I woke up with no memory from the previous night. Even now I have no idea why I couldn’t remember anything.

Then came the day of Blaze and Julies wedding. We all gathered at the Shores of Harmony; evenVergil and Arc showed up. I had always thought that that place was a good spot for a wedding. We all sat in white chairs while Blaze, Julie, and Zane were standing in front of us. Julie was wearing a beautiful white dress while Zanea nd Blaze wore their white coats. I wasn’t paying attention to Blaze and Julie at all. I couldn’t keep my eyes off Dawn. I hoped that one day we would be standing where they were. Then I noticed Arc was sitting adjacent to us. He just kept glaring at me. I guess he didn’t like the idea of me being with his sister, but I didn’t care. I didn’t see how it was any of his business anyway.The ceremony ended and I went to congratulate Blaze, while Dawn was doing the same with Julie.

I walked up to Blaze and patted him on the back. “How do you feel?”

“To be honest I thought I was going to pass out.” Blaze replied.

I had to laugh at him. “I think Zane would have been pretty mad if you did that.”

Zane let out a slight chuckle. “I would have been more worried about Julie. She would have probably hit you till you woke up.”

“Na, she would have probably sat me on fire.”

“Then good thing fires your element.” I said while laughing.

“I’m good with fire, put I’m not fire proof.”

Then Vergil and Arc walked up to us. “Congratulations Blaze.” Vergil said.

“Thanks.” Blaze replied.

“I’m sorry but we have to go.”

“Okay then, thanks for coming.” Vergil summoned a corridor. As he and Arc went to leave he passed me and whispered in my ear.

“Don’t say I didn’t warn you.” Then he and Arc disappeared.

I was shaken byVergil’s words. A part of me wishes I would have listened to him. At least then I wouldn’t have been free from the pain.

****

“Don’t say that.” Umbra said.

“Why?” I asked.

“If you would have listened to him you wouldn’t have had any of the memories.”

“You’re right.” I realized that my time with Dawn was worth all the pain in the world.

****

After Vergil left I went to congratulate Julie. As I walked toward her, she was whispering something to Dawn. I was only able to catch the end of the conversation, but I had good idea what they were talking about.

“I’m sure he’ll ask soon enough.” Julie said.

“Are you sure?”Dawn asked.

“He can’t drag his feet forever.”

“What are you two talking about?” I asked.

Dawns face turned bright red. “Nothing.” She then quickly walked away.

I smiled at her; she was so cute when she was embarrassed. “Congrats Julie.” Julie started to glare at me. “Is something wrong?”

“It’s not nice to toy with a girls feelingsVeritas.”

“What do you mean?”

She took a deep breath. “Are you gonna ask Dawn to marry you or not!?”

I was caught off guard. “What!?”

“You love her and she loves you so what are you waiting for?” I didn’t know what to say. Shew as right though. The thought of marriage had crossed my mind, but I figured I would wait. “All men are the same. Why don’t you man up and quit dragging your feet?”

I smiled at her.“Thanks Julie I needed that.” I did take Julies words to heart. I decided to ask Dawn to marry me, but I was going to wait for the right time. We talked with others until the sun started to set. I then gathered Sky and Dawn and left.



When we got home I put Sky to bed, and Dawn and I went to the training grounds. We sat on the bench and gazed at the stars.

“I heard Amelia’s apprentice has powers like yours.” I said.

“What do you mean?” Dawn asked.

“She can look into people’s hearts.”

“That isn’t like mine.”

“Huh?”

“Sometimes a Keyblade wielder will have a certain ability. Some can sense the light and darkness, and some can see the futures, the list goes on and on.”

“So that’s why you can see the future.”

“No, future sight is random, but I can control my visions.”

“But you said you only received visions every now and then.”

“They did, but I’m learning to control it.”

“Why now?”

“I want to stop your death.”

“Why?” I didn’t know why I asked when I already knew the answer.

She leaned in and kissed me. “Because I love you.”

“I love you too. So have you looked into our future?”

“No, I want it to be a surprise.” If she only knew.



Dawn continued to live with us for another month. She taught me so much. She was the reason I knew how the war ended, and the purpose of the princesses. She even taught me how to use the spell Faith.

Finally I decide to ask Dawn to marry me, and tell her everything about Sky and I. I left her note telling her to meet me on the islands. With the note I left a sliver neckalace with a crown shaped pendant. I waited on the main island and contemplated my decision. I was a little nervous about what she would say, but deep down I knew she would say yes.

Finally a corridor appeared, but instead of Dawn, Arc came out of it.

“What are you doing here Arc? Where’s Dawn?”

Arc summoned his Keyblade. The blade was in the shape of a blue lightning bolt, and the teeth were in the shape of the kanji for lightning (霆). The guard was in the shape of gray thunder clouds, and the key chain’s token was crossing lightning bolts. “A creature of dark is not worthy to be with her.”

“What!?” I wondered how Arc knew about me, but I already knew.

“Either way, I can’t allow your kind to exist in this realm.”

“I’m not going to fight you. I won’t hurt dawn like that.”

“It won’t be much of a fight.” Arcs Keyblade became coated in light, and then he rushed me with blinding speed. I went to create a barrier but he was able to attack me before the barrier was up. He slashed my left arm,and it immediately went numb.

“What did you do!?”

“It’s the electrical current going through your muscles. I can at least do the kindnesso f not letting you feel your death.” I could see the killing intent in hiseyes.

I summoned my Keyblade. “Fine I’ll fight.” I created chains of light to try and constrict Arc, but he was easily able to dodge it. He appeared beside me and slashed both my legs; I then dropped to the ground. I fired several spheres of light, but as with the last attack Arc easily dodged it. He then slashed my right arm, causing me to drop my blade. I realized that I was going to lose this fight.Even if I wanted to I couldn’t undo the seal on my heart. Then Arc slashed my body even more. I couldn’t even feel the blood dripping down my body. “Are you really going to hurt your own sister like this!?”

“I’m not hurting her, I’m saving her.”

“How blind can you be!?”

“Don’t worry I’ll take care of Dawn. Then I’ll deal with Sky.”

“Stay away from him!”

“I can’t just leave the heart of Kye waltzing around now can I? Is heart is too strong to exist in this realm.”

I tried to move, but my body was still paralyzed. Then Arc fired several fire balls into the sky. The sky slowly filled with thunder clouds. Then Arc pointed his blade to the sky. “Even if you could, you would never be able dodge this attack. Unlike the spell this is natural lightning.” Arc waved his Keyblade downward. “May your heart be purified by the thunder clap.”

I closed my eyes and prepared for the worst. As the lightning fell my life flashed before my eyes. Even though it had been difficult, I was still happy. Then I opened my eyes, and realized I was still alive; though the lightning had spared me, it blown off all my clothes except my pants. I then noticed the X over the seal had vanished. I then looked above me and saw the darkness swirling above me. Then darkness started coming into my body, and my wounds began to heal. I was then able to move, and pick up my blade. I then felt all of my negative emotions come bubbling to the surface. As these feelings came up, more and more darkness began to appear.

“So Vergil was right. But the darkness can’t save you from me!” Arc rushed me and went to attack and was able knock my Keyblade away. I then grabbed his Keyblade and broke it with a single hand. I grabbed Arc and threw him into the air. I then summoned chains made of darkness and constricted him. The chains began to choke the life out of him so I called them away, and he fell to the ground. “Why didn’t you kill me!?”

“I owe you no such kindness.” I wanted him to suffer, though this may have been the darkness talking. Then the darkness created claws around my hands. I kicked Arc into the air and slashed him with my claws. I then fired a huge ball of darkness at him, sending him rocketing toward the ground. As he landed he bounced off the ground, so I summoned more chains to keep him upright. I walked toward him and raised one of my claws.

“I thought you didn’t want to hurt Dawn.”

I then began to hysterically laugh. “Trying to get away by bringing up Dawn huh? Sorry, you brought this on yourself.” I was prepared to deliver the final blow.

“VERITAS!” I turned around to see Dawn. She was holding the crown necklace I had left for her.

“Dawn….this isn’t what you think.” I went to reach out to her, but she backed away.

“WHY!?” I didn’t know what to say, but I didn’t want to lose her.

“Just let me explain.”

“No! I never want to see you again!” Dawn threw the necklace down and disappeared into a corridor.

I bent down and picked up the necklace. “Dawn.” As I spoke I felt tears streaming down my face. Then I heard Arc laughing.

“You should have stayed away from her. I told you a creature of the dark isn’t worthy to be with her.” I then sprinted toward Arc and drove my claw into his chest. I saw no reason for him to live anymore. “Why?”

“You took her away from me, and I can never forgive you for that.” I removed my claw, and Arc began to fade away. “Don’t worry, Vergil will be joining you soon.”





The battle between Arc and Veritas may seem familiar to some of you. Try to guess where I got the idea from.

[spirit-of-light]

Chapter VII

Their Mothers Eyes

After I dealt with Arc I summoned a corridor and went to Vergil’s castle. I knew he was the one who orchestrated my battle with Arc. I could feel my heart being consumed by the darkness, but I didn’t care. They had taken the girl I loved away, and I was determined to make them suffer for it. When I arrived at the castle I began to break anything I could reach.

“VERGIL! COMEOUT AND FACE ME!” As I screamed the darkness began to swirl around me. I called out to Vergil once again, but he didn’t show. “C’MON VERGIL PUT ME OUT OF MY MISERY!” I truly believed my life had lost its purpose. If I could be manipulated so easily, then what was the point? Finally I decided to leave. If Vergil wouldn’t end my suffering, then I would have to do it myself. I summoned a corridor, and went to the edge of darkness.

I stood over the cliff and stared into the darkness. I didn’t care anymore. The darkness could have me for all I cared. As I stared into the darkness I heard a voice.

“Is this the path you’ve decided to walk?” I turned and saw a figure in a black coat.

“Who are you?”The figure pulled down its hood, and I was shocked by his appearance. His face was the same as mine, except for his yellow eyes.

“You once embraced me, but you decided to lock me away. I gave you strength, and you decided to follow the light. But you forgot one very important thing.”

“And what would that be?”

“Without me you wouldn’t be who you are.”

“You’re right. I shouldn’t have tried to lock you away. I should have embraced who I was.”

“Glad to see you’ve come to your senses. So what do you plan to do now?”

“If you are who I think you are, you should already know the answer.”

“So you’re going to give into to despair?”

“Yes, then my pain will end.”

“So in the end you’ve decided to give up? That doesn’t sound like you at all.”

“I don’t care anymore.”

The figure began to laugh at me. “Fine, give up, but your pain will not end. The only thing you will feel is regret. And besides, what would Sky and Dawn think?”

“SHUT UP!” I went to slash the figure, but as soon as I raised my hand he disappeared. I wasn’t in the mood to be lectured, especially by myself.

****

“Yourself?” Umbra inquired.

“He was a manifestation of the darkness within me.” I replied.

“Sounds like Xyke.”

“Xyke?”

“He was my darkness.”

“Clever name.”

“He thought it was.”

****

I then began to stare into the darkness once again. As I did so all off the loss I had felt in my life had resurfaced. Losing my Master, losing Dawn, my heart couldn’t bear it anymore.

“I’m sorry Sky, please forgive me.” I closed my eyes and put my foot over the edge. As I did so I felt a hand pull me pack. I opened my eyes and turned around. I saw a woman in a white coat covered in black designs. The hood was up so I couldn’t see her face. I could sense a strange power coming from her. It reminded me of the light within the Princesses. “Why did you stop me?”

“This is not your destiny.”

“I’ll decide my destiny, not you or anybody else!”

“You still have the task of raising him. That is the path you must walk.”

“If I can be toyed with so easily, what chance do I have of protecting him!?”

“As long as you believe in him, no harm will ever come to him.”

“And what if I fail?” I knew I couldn’t deal with losing Sky. If that happened I would probably jump into the darkness head first.

“You won’t fail, that I can promise you.” I didn’t know why but I believed the woman’s words.

“Okay then, I will protect him.” Then I noticed the woman staring at my face. “Is there something wrong?”

“No, it’s just your eyes. They’re filled with love, just like your mothers.”

“My mother?” I was left confused by the comment. You see I didn’t know my mother. My master found me when I around five, and he raised me ever since. I had no memories from before then, but that wasn’t the weird part. The weird part was when he found me I could use the Keyblade. “So you knew my mother?”

“Yes.”

“Where is she?”

“She died.”

“Oh.” For some reason I felt sad. Even though I didn’t know her I still felt a sense of loss.

“Don’t worry; I know she would have been proud of you.” The woman began to vanish, but before she left she decided to tell me something. Something I never stopped believing. “She still loves you.”

“Huh?”

“Dawn; she still loves you and she always will.”Then woman then vanished completely.

I then began to contemplate what I had been told. Although I had lost the woman I loved, I could still move forward. As long as I had Sky my life, I would always have a purpose. I summoned a corridor and returned to The Land of Departure.



When I arrived Zane, Amelia, Rain, Blaze, and Juliew ere waiting. I wondered what they were doing there.

“Hey guys.” I then realized the seal on my chest was visible. As I noticed it, Amelia walked up and slapped me. I barely even moved. Her slap was nothing compared to the battle I just fought. “What was that for?”

“Why didn’t you tell us!?”

“Tell you what?”

“That you could use the darkness.”

“Huh?” I thought Vergil was the one who told them.“Who told you?”

“Dawn told us.”

I prepared for the worst, and summoned my Keyblade.“So you’re here to finish the job, is that it?”

“What kind of people do you think we are!?” Blaze cried. “Who cares if you can use the darkness, you’re still our friend!”

I then began to cry. I realized that they were my friends, and I should have trusted them. I was wrong to assume they would attack me if they knew about my darkness. “Thanks guys.”

“Alright you can stop the water works now. C’mon, people who can use the darkness are supposed to be tough.”

I quickly wiped the tears from my eyes. “Sorry about that. You have no idea what it was like to carry that secret around for all these years.” They then proceeded to tell me about Dawn. She told them that I could use darkness, and that Arc had attacked me. However she didn’t mention anything about Vergil. She must have been too distraught realize we were setup. “So where is Dawn now?”

“She said she was going away, and that she wasn’tc oming back.” Rain replied.

“Oh.” The pain in my face must have been easily noticeable.

“She did tell us something else.”

“What?”

“She said to look after you.” The mysterious woman was right; Dawn did still love me.

“So what are you going to do now?” Zane asked.

“I’m going to find her.” I wasn’t ready to give her up that easily. As long as I lived I knew I would find her again. “If you don’tmind, can you look after Sky?”

“No problem.” Zane replied. Zane was always easy to count on.

“And, would not tell anyone else about me. It’s probably better if we keep this a secret.” All five of them nodded in agreement. I retrieved one of my spare coats and left.



I searched the worlds for at least a month, but there was no trace of Dawn. On my journey I began to master my darkness. I knew it was something I needed to do if I was going to protect Sky. Finally I decided to return home, but first I had to go get Sky.

I went to The Plains of Tranquility; Zane’s home.There Zane was having Sky practice using light.

“Any luck?” Zane asked.

“No, I couldn’t even find a single lead. So how’s he doing?”

“Is skill with the light is incredible. I’ve never seen anyone his age wield the light with such prowess.”

“Light is his element.”

“You can say that again.” There was an awkward silence between us, until Zane spoke. “I want to ask you something.”

“Shoot.”

“If you don’t mind I would like to train Sky.”

I wondered why Zane would even propose such an idea.“Why?”

“Don’t take it the wrong way. I just figured you would want to continue your search for Dawn.” I knew his heart was in the right place, but if anyone was going to train Sky, it was going to be me.

“Sorry, but I’m going to be the one to train him.”

“What about Dawn?”

“I know I’ll find her one day.” Then Sky realized I was there. He immediately ran up to me.

“Veritas, where have you been?”

“I had some things I had to do. What about you? Zane says you’re pretty good with the light.”

Sky flashed a cocky smile. “What did you expect? Ithink I’m as strong as you now.”

“Not yet, but you’re getting there.” I then summoned a corridor. “Thanks for taking care of Sky for me Zane.”

“Any time.”

****

“Is it really that easy to overcome pain?”Umbra asked.

“Yep, as long as you have something to fight for, any pain is bearable.”

“At least Arc got was coming to him. You actually spared me the trouble.”

“What do you mean?”

“You mean you donn’t know.”

“Know what?”

“Okay then, let me ask you something. Have you ever wondered why you never met anyone who could use the darkness?”

The question had crossed my mind, but I never thought anything of it. “Yes, why?”

“Arc and Vergil were hunting them down. They mercilessly slaughtered anyone who could wield the darkness. They even used me for this task.”

“How so?”

“They discovered I could track the darkness. I was nothing more than a blood hound to them.”

“Can’t say I’m surprised; after what he did to I figured nothing was beneath him.” Then I remembered something I wanted to ask. “If you have some of Sky’s light, does that mean you got some of his memories too?”

“They aren’t really memories, they’re more like feelings.”

“I think I get it, that must be why you wanted to learn about me.”

“Not exactly.” Then a light appeared over Umbra’s chest, but this light was different from the ones before. This light had more of a reddish tint to it.

“What’s with the light?”

“Only one way to find out.”



We appeared at The Land of Departures training grounds. There Sky was watching Kirei pick flowers. She had grown since we last saw her. She wore a pink and white dress, and had a small pink bow on the side of her hair. She was almost identical to Hikari; her hair her eyes, everthing.

“So how old is she?” Iasked.

“She’s five now.” Umbrareplied.

“She looks so much like her mother.” She did have her mother’s appearance, but I wondered whose personality she had.

The little girl thenr an up to Sky, holding a small bouquet of white flowers. “Do you think mommy will like them?” She asked.

“I think she would like anything you gave her.” Sky replied. Then we could hear Hikari calling for Sky.“I better go see what she wants. You stay here; I’ll be back in a second.”

“Okay then.” Sky then left the training grounds. Something was off though. Every time Sky went some wherewe would follow him, but we remained where we were. I brushed it off and turned my attention to Kirei. I wished I could talk to her. She probably the closest thing I had to a granddaughter. Then she began to curiously stare in our direction. “Who are you?” She then walked up to us.

“Wait, you can see us.”I was amazed that anyone could see us.

“I would have to be blind to miss you two.” I then began to laugh at her. “What’s so funny?”

“You may look like your mother but you act just like your father.”

“You know my dad. Then how come I’ve never met you before?”

I didn’t see the harm in telling her. “We’ll I’m Veritas and this is Umbra.”

“My dad’s told me about you. You two are supposed to be dead.”

“We are.”

“So let me get this straight, you two are like ghosts.”

“Something like that. So what has your dad told you about us?”

“He said that you were his master.” She then pointed at Umbra. “And he said you were his brother, and that you attacked him.”

“That’s it?” Umbra said.

“Yep, why do you ask?”

“I expected him to bash my name. After all I did try to take his heart.” I didn’t know why Umbra would say such a thing, especially to a little girl.

Kirei put on a smile; the same smile as her fathers. “Oh yeah I remember now. He said you did it because you were sad. He said you just needed a hug.” She then proceeded to hugher uncle. I expected Umbra to push her away, but instead he did something completely out of character. He smiled at her and hugged her back. His hair then turned from silver back to black, and his eyes turned from yellow to blue.

“I think your father was right.” Umbra reached into his pocket and pulled out a pink and black charm bracelet; the charms were in the shape of hearts. He then put it on Kirei’s wrist.

“What’s this?” The girlasked.

“Consider it a late birthday present form your uncle.”

“KIREI!” Sky then returned to the training grounds.

“I got to go.” Umbra then whispered something in Kirei’s ear. “Okay I’ll tell him for you.”

Kirei ran to her father’s side. Sky quickly noticed the bracelet Umbra had given her. “Honey, where did you get that?”

“Uncle Umbra gave it to me.”

“Umbra?” I could tell it had been a while since Sky heard his brother’s name.

“He said to tell you him and Veritas are happy for you. They only wish they could be here with you.”

A single tear rolled down Sky’s cheek. “I wish they were here too.”

Umbra and I were then swallowed by the light once more.



I didn’t know what to think of what I had seen. It was the first time I ever saw Umbra smile.

“Is something wrong?”Umbra asked.

“It’s just…”

Umbra must have read my mind. “I know my hair and eyes have changed.” He then tugged on one his black spikes.

“Not just that, for a second there you…”

“Reminded you of Sky. I decided to take a page from you.”

“What do you mean?”

“If you could get overcome your pain and loneliness, why couldn’t I.”

“Glad I could help. Oh! Where did you get that bracelet?”

“Dawn gave it to me. She said to give it to a pretty girl.”

“That does sound like her. So what do you think that light was.”

“It was Kirei. I don’t know how of why her heart called us, but I’m glad it did.”

“She definitely takes after her father. She reminds me a little of Mirya.”

“Who’s Mirya?”

“My daughter.”

[spirit-of-light]

Chapter VIII

The Product of Love

“You have a daughter? How did that happen?”

“You see when a man anda woman love each other….” I was about give Umbra the same generic speech all adults give to children about where babies come from.

“I don’t mean that. I mean who’s the mother?”

“Dawn of course.”

“Huh?” Umbra was trying to connect the dots, but I figured it was best if I explained it to him.

“Okay, I’ll tell you.”

****

It had been five years after Dawn left. In that time I trained Sky, and we went on several missions to keep order in the worlds. But as time went by I knew my death was inching closer and closer. I wanted to prevent this, so I continued to master the darkness in secrecy. Then one day in Radiant Garden, destiny decided to show me something.


I was out for stroll while Sky was improving his Faith spell. While I was walking something was reflecting the sun in my eyes. I shielded my eyes and look for source of the light. Then I saw the light reflecting off her hair. She had my hair, and her mother’s dark pink eyes. I thought I had imagined her, but then she ran into me.

“Sorry mister I wasn’t watching where I was going.” As soon as appeared she ran away.

I then gave into my curiosity, and followed her. In retrospect it probably looked strange for a grown man following a little girl around. But I kept following her until she arrived in front of Radiant Garden’s school house. The girl quickly ran up to one of the teachers.

“Where have you been Mirya?” The teacher asked. I thought Mirya was nice name. I wondered who named her.

“Just out playing.”

“That’s fine but you shouldn’t run off without telling us.”

“Okay then.”

“Now get inside before class starts.”

“Awww.” She reminded me so much of Sky.

“No whining, now go.” Mirya entered the school house. The teacher was about to do the same thing.

“Excuse me!” I yelled. I quickly ran up to her.

“May I help you with something?”

“I just wanted to ask about that girl.”

“You mean Mirya?”

“Yeah, who are her parents?”

“She doesn't have. Her mother brought her here five years ago.”

“What did her mother look like?”

“She was young when we met. She had pink eyes and black and pink hair.” I was left speechless. I wondered why Dawn would keep something like this from. I was her father I had the right to know. “You must be who she warned us about.”

“What?”

“She said one day a man with silver hair may show up, and if he did not to let Mirya go with him.”

Initially I was furious, but I decided to see what Dawns reason was. “Did she say why?”

“She said she didn’t want your lives for her. She wanted her to live a normal life.”

“Then I’ll honor her wish.” I truly understood why Dawn did what she did. I wouldn’t wish my life on my worst enemy, let alone my own child. “Did her mother name her?”

“Yes.”

“Sounds like something she would pick.” I summoned a corridor and left.

****

“Do you regret not getting to know her?” Umbra asked.

“A little, but I knew it was best to stay away from her. Dawn probably wouldn’t be too happy if I went against her wishes.”

“I’d imagined she is pretty scary when she’s angry.”

“She always was scary when she got mad.” The two of us shared a laugh. I still wasn’t use to this new happy Umbra. “Umbra, you’ve changed.”

“I know, and call me Caelum.”

“Fair enough Caelum.”

“So is your story over? I know what happens after I show up.”

“Not everything.”

****

After I returned from meeting Mirya, I found Sky passed out. I figured he must have over done it with his training. Then he jumped awake and let out a loud scream.

“Sky! What’s wrong?” I quickly rushed to his side.

“I just had the worst nightmare.”

“Do you remember what it was about?”

“I remember I was fighting a guy in a black coat. I was able to hit him a few times, but he eventually knocked me to the ground. Then he said something to me.”

Sky was very hesitant; this was one of the few times I ever saw fear in his eyes. “What did he say?” I asked.

“He said “Soon you will have your revenge.” then I woke up.”

****

“That was when our hearts began to connect to each other. He must off been able to see things through my eyes.” Caelum said.

“I had a feeling that’s what it was.”

“Eventually I was able to do the same to keep tabs on him.”

“You saw everything?”

“Just enough to infuriate me.”

“Why were mad?”

“I was jealous of him. I hated that he had such an easy life, while I had to train until my bones cracked. But in the end he was still able to beat me.”

“Do you understand why?”

“Yeah, he drew his power from love, and I drew my power from anger.”

“It was just as it was with Kye.”

“That’s what Xyke said.”

****

Anyway, over the course of the next six years Sky continued to have nightmares. I did my best to help him, but he wouldn’t have it; he just said it was stress. Finally the day of Sky’s Mark of Mastery Exam came. Then I realized how much little time I had left. So I decided to write Sky a letter. It entailed everything I learned over the course of my life. In short Sky passed his exam and then went on to train Hikari. Then Rain came to me and revealed the X you had branded on her. I went to see Vergil to confirm who was coming after Sky and I. Then I went to try and find Dawn once again. But just as the last time there was no trace of her.



Eventually I found myself on the islands. I wished I could see her just one more time. To tell her I was sorry.

“You haven’t given up, have you?” Then the mysterious woman appeared before me again.

“I’ll never give up.”

“You won’t see her again in this life.”

“You’re probably right. If I haven’t found her in all this time, what are my chances now? I just wish I could see her again.”

“Is that your only regret?”

“Yes.”

“I see then.”

“Who are you?” That question had plagued me since I had met her.

“I have been called many names. But you would know me as Sky’s mother.”

I wasn’t surprised at all. After all the events in my life, I had become ready for anything. “Then it’s up to you to watch over him after I’m gone.”

“I will.”

****

Caelum began to laugh. “What’s so funny?” I asked.

“She saw all this coming, and she didn’t do a thing to stop it.”

“She lets us choose our own path. Or at the very least, she lets us think we do.” Caelum became enveloped in a light; this light was the same as the other lights that we had seen. “What’s he feeling now?”

“He’s surprised.”



Caelum and I had arrived at The Land of Departures courtyard. There Dawn was standing before Sky. I was shocked at seeing her gain. Not only that but she looked the same age as me.

“How long has it been?” I asked Caelum.

“It’s been twenty years since Kirei’s birth.” I wondered how Dawn could look so young, considering how much time had passed. Then Dawn began to speak with Sky.

“You’ve grown since the last time I saw you.” Sky stood there with a curious look on his face. “Oh! I’m sorry you probably don’t remember me I’m/”

Sky quickly cut her off. “Dawn right?”

“Glad to see you remembe rme.”

“Why are you here? I’ve you’re looking for Veritas, he died a long time ago.”

“I know I’m here to see you.”

“Why?”

“You and I are the same. We can both see what has yet to come.”

“And?”

“Have you seen your death?”

I wondered why Dawn would ask Sky such a question. “I have. I die in my bed with my daughter by my side.”

“Do you know the circumstances of your death?”

“No, and I hope I never do.”

“Okay then that’s all I wanted to know.”

“That’s it?”

“Yes.”

Sky looked very confused. “Okay then.” Sky walked into the castle. As Sky walked away the light was starting to return. Then I ran toward Dawn, and embraced her.

“Veritas?” Caelum yelled.

“NO! I’m not letting her go again!” As I spoke I could feel the light pulling on me. Then the light vanished, and we were back in The Realm of Death. “Dawn.” I then began to cry. Then I felt someone’s arms wrap around me. I looked down and saw Dawn, still in my arms.

“Don’t cry Veritas.”

[spirit-of-light]

Chapter IX

Truth and Lies

I was shocked that Dawn could exist in The Realm of Death, but I didn’t care. I was just glad I could be with her again. “I knew I would see you again.”

“I knew too.” Dawn hugged me tighter. “I wish I could have been with you.”

“I know, I pushed you away. I should have told you everything from the beginning.”

“I know you only fought him because you had to.”

Then something clicked in my mind. “Wait, if you knew why didn’t you come back? I thought you loved me.” I said while pushing her away.

“It’s complicated.”

“Then try explaining it to me.”

“Okay, I owe you that much.” Dawn took a deep breath. “You see, I’m not suppose exist in this realm.”

“What!?” I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. “Of course you exist.”

“Let me finish. When I was attacked by the Heartless, they took my body. But somehow, Kingdom Hearts gave me a new one; she even gave me her eyes.”

“I don’t care about that! We could have still been together!”

Then Dawn got a little flustered. “I said let me finish! After you fought Arc I had a vision. Well it wasn’t really a vision; it was more of an order. Kingdom Hearts told me to stay away from you. She said you had to raise Sky alone.”

“What!?” I guess I was right; out fates were decided for us.

“So everything was predetermined.” I hadn’t noticed that Caelum had been standing behind us.

Dawn smiled at him. “I almost didn’t notice you Caelum. It’s good to see you again; you’ve grown into quite the young man.”

I noticed Caelum’s face turning red. “It’s good to see you too.”

“Oh! I had almost forgotten there’s someone else who wants to talk to you two.”

“I’ll take it from hereD awn.” Then a man appeared before us. His face looked exactly like Sky’s, but his pupils were in the shape of X’s.

“Are you…” I was little hesitant to ask.

“Kye.” He answered. “I sure am.”

“You mean the Kye?”

“Yep.” I didn’t knoww hat to say. It was an honor to be in the presence of the creator of the Keyblades.

“So what did you want to talk to us about?” Caelum asked.

“I wanted to tell you the truth about X-blade.”

“We already know the truth. When Sky’s and my heart merged we created your X-blade.”

“Not exactly.”

“What do you mean?”

“I’ll explain. Long ago my mother created Xyke and I. We were created to protect her and carry out her will. Then Xyke began to crave power, this eventually led to our battle. When I won, I had created the true X-blade. I eventually taught others to craft blades from their hearts. In honor of me they called them Kyeblades, but the pronunciation was changed from “kye” to “key”. Then some of the wielders began to crave power; just as Xyke had. So I decided to destroy the X-blade, and remove the temptation. But when I split our hearts the X-blade wasn’t destroyed. It turns out our power can never leave this world.”

“Then what are Sky and I? Don’t we possess yours and Xykes hearts?”

“In a way. When I split our hearts, our power remained inside the X-blade. So you and Sky are what remained of us. That’s why you two possessed our will and memories.”

“So what happened tothe X-blade?”

“It remained in the worlds and was passed down. The wielders always hid their presence in the worlds, and kept balance in secret. In fact the last wielder of the X-blade was your mother Veritas.”

“My mother.” In a way I wasn’t surprised, I guess I had always known. “Then who’s my father?”

“You don’t have one.”

“Huh?”

“Your mother couldn’t stand the solitude anymore. So she asked my mother to give her a companion.Then she blessed her with you.”

“So I’m like Sky?”

“Not really. She carried you, she gave birth to you. My mother just cut out the middle man.”

“Then why did she give me up?”

“She didn’t want her life for you. She wanted you to live happily, and have many friends. And from what I’ve seen you’ve fulfilled her wish.” I was glad I could make mother proud. “So are you angry at her for giving you up?”

“No, I understand why she did what she did.” I couldn’t be mad, because I had done the same thing. “So what happened next?”

“Eventually my mother foresaw the Keyblade war. First she sent Xyke and I back to the world, but something happened.When we returned we returned as babies. Then the Keyblade wielders found outa bout us. So my mother gave the Grand Masters orders to go to the Cross Roads of Destiny. There, your mother appeared, and broke the X-blade. The reactionwas so violent that it broke the world into many pieces.”

Caelum then interrupted Kye. “I thought you said the X-blade couldn’t leave the world?”

“It can’t be destroyed, but it can be broken. It broke into seven shards of light, and thirteen of darkness. Then my mother used the thirteen shards to create The Realm of Darkness. To make up for her absence my mother created seven hearts of pure light. It was because of these hearts that the worlds wern't swallowed by the darkness.”

"What about the other seven shards?" I asked.

"When the Princesses are in danger they will choose seven guardians, and bestow upon them their power."

“That's all well and good, but what did Sky and I create?” Caelum asked.

“An imitation X-blade.You would have had enough power to fulfill your goal, but you wouldn’t have been able to unlock my mother.”

“Why are you telling us all this?” I asked.

“In the future someone will try and recreate my power. He will cause unimaginable torment, all in the quest for my mother.”

“But that’s in the future.”

“I hope some piece of you will remember.”

I didn’t know what Kye meant by the comment. “Do you know anything about the man?”

“All I know is his name starts with an X.” Then Kye began to fade away. “Looks like my times up.Veritas, Caelum, never forget, even when you’re overwhelmed and you feel like you can’t go on. Remember, look to others, they are your light within the darkness.” Kye then completely faded away.

Then I noticed Dawn begin to fade away. “Dawn!” I went to grab her, but my hands went right through her.

“Looks like my times up too.” I then saw tears began to fall from Dawns eyes. “I’m sorry I couldn’t be with you. I wish we could have raised our daughter together.”

I then wrapped her inmy arms. “I wish we could have been together too.” We then shared on final kiss. “I love you.”

“I love you too.” She then completely faded away.

“Are you gonna be okay?”Caelum asked.

I then smiled at him. “I’ll be fine. I love her and she loves me, and that’s enough.”

“So what do you think of what Kye said?”

“It sure would explain a lot of things.”

“What do you mean?”

“That would explain why you and Sky are drawn to the princesses. Deep down you just wanted to reclaim yourlost power.”

“It makes sense.” There was an awkward silence between us.

“My story’s over. So why did you want to know about me?”

“I wanted to know more about the man who raised my brother.”

“That’s all?”

“That’s all.”

“So what do we do now?”

“We wait for Sky to join us.” As Caelum spoke, we were enveloped in a light.

[padlock]

Oh no! I had just finished the fourth chapter this morning, then I get on tonight and the fic is updated with DDD spoilers. Just my luck. I like the general flow you have going on with this story, although I didn't like the clicheness of the female wearing pink clothes, and yeah, I think it is very strange that Veritas was not only a Master at 12, but had an apprentice who was a baby. Whut? Haha. You have a lot of general clunkyness in your writing, and lots of mistakes (for example you write 'of' instead of 'have' quite a bit) but it has forward motion! I feel like I am moving with the story as I read it :). Well done on beginning an engaging story. I guess I will have to finish it in August :p if you wanna reply to this me, cause I am not gonna look at the last page in case of spoilers :p

[spirit-of-light]

Chapter X

It Ended With a Smile

Caelum and I arrived at The Land of Departure. There Hikari was lying in bed, with Sky and Kirei by her side. Kirei had grown into quite the woman. She was blessed with same beauty as her mother.

“How long has it been?” I asked.

“It’s been a month since the last time we were here.” Caelum replied.

I then noticed both Kirei and Sky were crying. It was then I sensed the light within Hikari starting to grow dim. Then Sky began to speak through his tears. “Please don’t go.”

She smiled at him.“It’s my time, there’s nothing I can do.”

“NO! I’ll find a way, just hold on a little longer!”

“No, I can’t ask you for anything more. You’ve both given me more than I could ever ask for.”

“Mother.” Kirei said quietly.

“No tears Kirei. Pretty girls don’t cry.” Hikari then wiped the tears from Sky’s and Kirei’s eyes.“It’s okay; you both will be fine without me.”

“NO! I said I’ll find away!” Sky cried.

“Sky, Kirei, good bye. I love you both more than you will ever now.” Hikari then smiled one last time. Then her body faded away into light.

“No, no, NO!” Sky then summoned a corridor.

“Where are you going father?” Kirei asked.

“I’m going to get your mother back.” Sky then disappeared in the corridor.



Caelum and I were transported to The Realm of Darkness. There Sky was standing before Kingdom Hearts.

“GIVE HER BACK TO ME NOW!” Sky yelled. I understood why Sky was standing before his mother. He must have thought she would bring Hikari back. “You took away my master, my brother,and now my wife! How much more do you want!?” Then the mysterious woman appeared before Sky.

“Everyone is destined to die Sky. That is the fate of all humans.”

“I don’t care! Now bring her back!”

The woman shook her head.“That’s not how it works.”

“I said bring her back!” Sky summoned his Keyblade and went to attack the woman. She grabbed his blade, and it disappeared.

“You’ll see her again.”

“What?”

“Along with your brother and your master.”

“When?”

“Soon.”

“I want to see them now!”

“Wait.” The woman then disappeared.

Sky fell to his knees and let out a loud scream. Then Caelum and I were enveloped in a light once again.



I understood why Sky was acting the way he was. I too knew what it was like to lose the girl you love. But Sky was never good at handling loss.

“Will Hikari be joining us?” Caelum asked.

“No, her heart cannever leave the worlds. She’ll probably just be reborn.”

“His heart has been through a lot. I wish we could be there from him.”

“So do I, but at least he has Kirei.” I then realized how far Caelum had come. He use to hate others, but now he could feel empathy towards them. I was proud to call him my friend.

Then a light began to glow around Caelum. “His light is fading.”

“What!?”

“He has given up on living. He wants to see us again.”

“Then let’s go see him.” Caelum engulfed us in the light.



We arrived in Sky’sroom. He was lying in his bed, with Kirei by his side. I noticed Sky hadn’t aged since the last time we saw him.

“How long were we gone?”I asked.

“About a month or two.” I couldn’t believe Sky would just give up on living. He had always had such a strong will.

“Don’t go father. I can’tl ose you too.” Kirei said, while speaking through her tears.

“It’s okay I’m going to be with your mother now.” Sky summoned his Keyblade, and handed it to Kirei. “It’s your turn to change the world now.” With those words Sky’s light completely faded from the world. Even thought I knew I would see him again, I still felt sad about seeing my apprentice die. Then Caelum and I were engulfed in the light one final time.



When we returned to Realm of Death, Sky was waiting for us.

“Veritas…Umbra…” Sky quietly said. He must have been surprised to see us. I walked up to him and punched him in the stomach as hard as I could. “What was that for!?”

“I didn’t train you to give up like that! I thought you were better than that!” I then let out a slight chuckle. “Look at me lecturing you like I’m still your master.”

Sky smiled at me. “You will always be my master.”

“Aren’t you a little old to have a master. I mean you’re older than me now. I can even see a fewg ray hairs.”

“I’m still young at heart.”

“I’ll give you that.”

“It’s good to see you again Sky.” Caelum chimed in. Sky then began to curiously stare at him. “What’s wrong?”

“Umbra, what happened to your hair, and your eyes?”

“I got over my pain,and it’s Caelum.”

“I gathered as much from Kirei, Caelum. So were you guys watching me?”

“Yeah.” I answered.

“Did you see everything?”Sky slyly asked.

“Only the important parts.” Caelum replied.

“At any rate, it’s good to see you guys again.” Sky then began to look around. “Where’s Hikari?”

“She must have moved on already. It’s probably time for us to do the same.” No sooner than I spoke, a heart shaped portal appeared above us.

“Then what are we waiting for, let’s go.” Sky jumped into the portal. I was about to do the same,but Caelum stopped me.

“Why did you lie to him?”

“The same reason I didn’t tell him about Kye. I figured it would better if he didn’t know.”

“So why do think Kye appeared to us?”

“I think he wants us to return. We’re probably going to fight against the guy he talked about.”

“You know you won’tr emember.”

“I know, and aren’t you going to return?”

“No, you and Sky can handle things fine without me.”

“If that’s what you want to do” Caelum then smiled at me, and I did the same. “I’m gonna miss you Caelum. I’m glad I can call you my friend.”

“Same here, I’m glad I got to know you.” We both jumped through the portal, on to Kingdom Hearts.



I remained within Kingdom Hearts until the age Kye spoke of had arrived. Kingdom Hearts then gave me the option to return to world. Naturally I said yes.

I was born on the islands that Dawn and I had visited so long ago. I was being held by my new mother. Then a nurse asked her what my new name would be. As the last of my memories were being sealed away, I heard her speak.

“We’ll name him Riku.”

The End

Thanks for reading guys :)