Of Fairytales and Blood Bonds

[Rikugurl]

Riku frowned, hearing that a boy was missing. Then again... the way the owl talked, it seemed that he might of known what was wrong.
They were inside a storybook... and before Merlin, the wizard, gained it, it must of belonged to this Christopher Robin. What might of happened with this Christopher Robin, Riku didn't know. Perhaps nothing happened to him... and the book just got lost.

He didn't think... these animals would be seeing Christopher Robin again... but he wasn't one to give out bad news.

"I'm sure he'll be back someday. If not, that's ok too. At least you'll always remember him."
The name Tigger came to him. Well... there certainly wasn't an animal called a Tigger.

The piglet seemed to calm down a bit, his ears poking up as he heard the laugh. That was good. He wouldn't ever want to forget someone!
He blinked as he looked over to the man speaking with Owl, then back up at the younger.
"Oh b-boy! It's always nice to meet new people. Owl is always the b-best with stories, as is T-tigger."


Axel smiled as he looked out to see Roxas, his face in shocked and blushing more. What a cute kid.
Slowly he left Demyx's side and swam back to Roxas, swimming around him slightly.

"Don't mind Roxas... he's just has stage fright! His singing is real well... we just need to get him over the frights."
His green eyes looked out at Ariel and Sebastian. "Do you think you guys can help?"

"Dat would be splendid! We got a rehearsal in anoda hour. You should all join!" The crab seemed to much more happier now. "Da concert is in dree more days, so der is a lot of work to be done! Follow me!"
He suddenly started to swim away, towards the castle in the distance.

Axel looked down at Roxas and smiled. "Don't worry! We can do it!"


"Human like? As if!" He head tilted slightly, the gun still drawn. "Man... You really are a dud."
He suddenly put his gun back to his hip.
"Sometimes.... duds aren't so bad. With all the text... and then the encounter... you SHOULD be like the rest of them."

He looked over at Ven, frowning slightly. What was an Atterian protecting a boy like that?

He looked back and sighed.
"Don't know what the damn thing's name was." He was finally relaxed a bit. The Atterian they had encountered had played the same gag... only he wasn't guarding anyone... and wasn't so ferocious in doing so. This seemed like the real deal to him.
He glanced down at the woman next to him, seeing what her input was.

[Reno]

Owl just nodded, smiling. "It never hurts to keep hoping." He said simply, his wings stretching out once more. His old bones didn't work like they used too.

Sora had heard bits and pieces of the story from Owl and his mind whirled in thought. He wondered... His attention was brought back to the little piglet and then he tilted his head. "Tigger... what's a Tigger?"

"Hallo!"

Sora looked up when suddenly something bounced at him. "Ah!" He felt a solid yet fluffy form jump on him making him land on his back. He blinked a little dazed and very surprise. "W-What?" He looked up.

"Why hallo! I don't think I ever bounced upon you before!" Sora looked up and his jaw dropped. A... tiger?!

"Who... are you?"

"I'm Tigger. T-I-Double guh-Errrrrrrrrr!"

Tigger... tiger. Oh he got it. Sora laughed. "Well I'm Sora! S-O-one Er-aaaaaaaaaa! Why did you pounce on me?"

"I did not pounce! I bounced! Because bouncing is what toggers do bestestest!"

"Well then Tigger it was absoultely wonderful bounce." Sora said with a grin.

"Now Tigger you now bouncing on others is no way to greet them! Just think of how much Rabbit hates it!"

"Oh ol' floppy ears loves me!"


"So says you!" Roxas cried, burying his head in his hands. "You don't have to sing in... in front of... lots of p-people."

Ariel chuckled as she swum past following after Sebastian. "Don't worry, everyone gets a little nervous! After some practice with everyone else you'll get used to it!" Ariel swum past suddenly. following after her crab friend.

The blonde shook his head, denying that fact. How could he EVER be okay when the thought of performing in front of Axel had taken him a year to get fully used to - and then with Demyx he couldn't sing above a murmur? H-how was he supposed to DO a concert in front of... of HUNDREDS if he couldn;t even sing for two?!

"Don't worry Rox!" Demyx cheered, swimming over. "Your singing's awesome! And in three days we'll be able to get you over that stage fright!"

"I-I doubt it." He murmured pessimistically.

Demyx just smiled then glanced back. "Come on puppy!" He called to the wolf and swam after the others.

Roxas glanced at Axel. "Do you really think I can... do it?"


When Xigbar relaxed so did Terra and he sighed, sitting down on the floor, curling his tail around him. He had a very good feeling it had been Hatori... But why here? His father said he had respected this world...

Was that all a lie too?

Aqua's eyes narrowed when Xigbar looked at her for apporval. "Yeah well I don't trust the fucking slobbering savage." She growled at the Atterian then looked over him and up towards the blonde. "YO kid." She snapped. "What about you? Are you actually here by your free will? If your not we can go ahead and kill this thing right now and you'll be free."

Terra's ears twitched and he rolled his eyes. Yeah like Ven would EVER.

[Rikugurl]

Riku blinked as he felt something. A foreshadow? "Uh... Sora!" He called right before the tiger bounced on the Shee. He growled as was about to go to the Shee's side when he heard an overly friendly voice. He sighed in relief, hearing wings beat close by and the swing moving a bit.

Tigger?

"O-o-o-o-h dear. Y-you should be more careful Tigger. T-these folk are here to learn about stories. W-we don't wanna scare them off now." The small piglet stuttered as he rubbed his hand together slightly.

Riku sighed and nodded. "That's right... but I don't think Tigger did any harm. I'm Riku. Uh... R-I-koooooooo." He blinked and laughed softly. This was getting more and more.... fun?


The wolffish yipped as Demyx called him and quickly swam after him and then to his side. His tongue hung on the outside of his mouth as he continued to yip happily.

Axel looked back at Roxas and nodded. "If anyone can do anything, that's you Roxas. I know you can. And don't worry... I'll be right behind you all the way..." His green eyes became soft but he suddenly grabbed the boy's hand.
"Now let's go!"
He laughed and quickly pulled the boy after them.


Ven growled as she snapped at him. He slowly stood. No, he didn't like this world like Halloween Town. Everyone was creepy... but extremely friendly. Everyone here was just extremely creepy.

He frowned though, getting back his own spunk. He put his hands on his waist and shot back at her. "YO chick!"
Xigbar blinked, a bit drawn back but couldn't help but grin, glancing down at Aqua.

"No... I can't say I'm here on my own freewill. This Atter---whatever is my guardian though." He looked back at the wolf and frowned. "He might not be the most caring thing in the world... but he protects me from what I need to be protected from. He's going to bring me back to my home world... so I have to do as he says and follow his best interest."

"MAN, that sounds like fun." The other man shook his head and grinned.

[Reno]

"ah don't worry Pig-a-let!" Tigger said. "The best welcome any something can get is a bounce from a Tigger!"

Sora laughed, hearing Riku give his name. Now that was cute! It seemed this world was really going to bring the child out in the silverette. The pressures of the outside world and the horrors awaiting him and his brothers seemed a little less real when he was safe and sound... inside here.

"Why how marvelous. You all sound like a buncha locales~" Tigger said excitedly as both Sora and Riku gave their names.

"Hey, Tigger?" Sora asked. "Mind letting me up?"

"Oh! not at all!" The tiger bonced off of him and Sora stood, brushing himself off, laughing. "I hear your a good storyteller."

"Me? Of course! Storytelling is what tiggers do best!"

"Tiggers do a lot of things best, don't they?"

"Abso-positively-lutely!"

Sora laughed. Oh he already loved it here!!


Demyx grinned as the pup came to his side, reaching out to pet the little scamp. He was quickly becoming his best friend!

Roxas blinked in surprise, flushing at Axel's words. they were encouraging and really... sweet. "Ax-ELLLL!" He cried as he was tugged forward. Dragging him didn't appear to be too ahrd for the red-head, but Roxas beat at his tail anyways to help out, laughing softly.

This was going to be one hell of an adventure.


Aqua's eyes widened a bit when the other suddenly snapped back. The hell? Chick? She scoffed as the blonde stuck up for the wolf, shaking her head and rolling her eyes. Either he was truly naive or this wofl had some sort of mind-control spell - she wasn't even going to CONSIDER the off-chance that this Atterian was anything but a killer. "Idiot." She scoffed. She was gonna hate herself in the morning for this. "Fine you guys can stay here, but NOT in the temple."

"Okay, fine." Terra agreed. "Where CAN we stay?"

Aqua smirked. "Oh I know a place." she turned, walking off. "Follow me."


~~~

Sora yawned languidedly, stretching out onto the grass hearing the swing on the tree moving back and forth as another kicked out his legs and brought them back. He turned his ehad, watching Riku. It seemed it had become one of his favorite pasttimes. Most times sora joined him, but together all he wanted to do was bask in the sunlight. But luckily Riku had gotten so good at swinging he didn't need any help.

The days and nights in this world passed pretty quickly. It'd only been three days and yet it felt like only a couple of hours. He knew that wasn't true but they just had been having so much fun the days just seemed to fly by.

They had met everyone in the 100-Acre Woods. Owl, Piglet, Gopher, Tigger, Kanga, Roo, Eeyore, Rabbit, and Winnie the Pooh. They were all terribly friendly in their own ways - well okay Rabbit had his moments.

Owl was the wise one of the world - yet his stories were actually indeed... very boring. Riku had been falling asleep on his shoulder after about two.
Piglet was the scaredy cat terrified about just about everything yet his small sparks of bravery usually came whenever Pooh needed him. He was such a SMALL thing though. The pig had eve told him the wind had carried him away plenty of times before!
Gopher he hardly saw as much of, but he was the tough critter it seemed, and the one who knew the know-how and everyone. Kinda like... gossip?
Tigger was a... bouncer. There was no other way to explain it. He bounced all the time and his stories were actually curious and exciting in their own ways - always giving tiggers a limelight of course.
Roo was funny. A small kangeroo that idolized Tigger a lot, he loved to bounce just as much yet being as small as he was he wasn't as good as it as the big tiger. Not yet at least. He was real creative too.
Eeyore... was a sad little creature. Always pessimistic and losing his house that's alright it probably woulda fallen over anyway...' "No way! I'll rebuild it! Bigger and better I promise!" or his tail! 'It's lost again, probably won't show up.' "Nonsense! I'll find it for you Eeyore!"
Rabbit was... well Rabbit was something else. He couldn;t describe him too easily. He and Tigger hardly got along though - but Tigger didn't seem to notice the rabbit's hostile words. The bunny loved his garden to death though and took great care of it. Unfortunetly the reason he seemed to HATE Tigger so much was the tiger always BOUNCED on his carrot fields. Sora felt bad for the rabbit once, watching part of it get destroyed and offered to help the rabbit in salvaging what they could and bringing the land back to what it was.
And then Winnie the Pooh...well he was a funny little bear. Loved honey to death and even took it from BEES. BEES!!!! He was fluffy though and even a balloon could lift him up. All the creatures here seemed more like walking stuffed animals though. Winnie the Pooh wasn't the brightest crayon in the box but he was certainly one of the kindest. Or at least... when he stole Rabbit's stash of honey he didn;t do it in any sort of malicious way and always apologized in such a way not even the rabbit could stay mad.

It was... Kanga however that made his heart hurt the most. She, being a large creature, actually had a spare room he and Riku could fit in - had told them that was were Christopher had used to stay and she'd never taken it out but knew he wouldn;t mind if they used it. Yet the reason it hurt his ehart was becuase of how... motherly she was. The only female and it had to be a mom. She remidned him so terribly of home at times, especally when she fussed over Roo in her loving ways and even to an extent over him and Riku. 'Oh no no eat more! you're so thin!'
The first night there, after a wodnerful dinner and sweet goodnights - he had caught a scene of Kanga taking roo to bed, kissing the little baby tenderly. He slipped away, got ready for bed, said goodnight to Kanga when she came to check on them, laid down... and then ten minutes later he was in Riku's bed, wrapped in the silverette's arms and crying, stuttering out how much he wished he could see his mom.

"I've been thinking." He said watching as the silverette swung, then glanced around, trying to make sure no one was around. "Maybe the reason Christopher Robin never came back wasn't because of anything bad.... maybe he just got too old. Or simply stopped believeing he could step into a book and meet other creatures. And he decided to give the book to Merlin for safe-keeping?" He had been thinking about Christopher a lot. not a day went by that he wasn't mentioned. He had really been loved here. He wished he could have met him.


Roxas rasied his hand to his mouth nervously. Demyx slapped it down.

"Stop that! You don't wanna get hangnails!"

"But! You don't understand!!"

"Oh come on, just remember what Ariel said!"

Roxas bit his lip, knowing better then to break the skin. Tpday was the big day after all. His FIRST concert. And his stomach was nothing but a knot of nerves and his heart was trying to do a marathon - or break a world record of most heartbeats per minute!

Three days of practice - LONG days of practice and even though up until last night he had felt completely confident... now he was treading here, wishing for nothing more then more TIME.

"Don't you ever get nervous?" Roxas asked the mermaid, still trying to get over the fact she was half-naked.
"Well of course, everyone does." Ariel said as she sat in the large oyster.
"then how do you... do it?"
"Sing? Easy, I turn all the nervousness into energy and just use it to give the best I've got!" Ariel said. "If it's something you really love to do Roxas, I know you can do it too. You just gotta believe in yourself."

Even Demyx had tried helping.

"U-Under the Seee-" His voice cracked, his cheeks flushing in embaressment as the others all looked at him. Too. Many. Eyes.
"Whoa whoa!" Demyx cried. "Roxas your stuttering too much!"
"I-I'm sorry..."
The blonde frowned, seeing Axel alreayd moving over towards Roxas, but he gave a wave of his hand, motioning for him to stop. Surprisingly - for once, Axel did and the blonde angelfish swam forward, murmuring to roxas softly. "You know I always got icnredibly nervous too, when I first performed."
"You did?" Roxas asked, surprised. Nothing about Demyx even seemed to waft the KNOWLEDGE of other people. He was one of those types who could be an idiot 24/7 and do embaressing things constantly and never realize it.
"'Course! But I was a gypsy, we had to perform for money and food. So I had to get over it. even knowing that the nerves never went away." Demyx smiled. "So i'll tell you a little trick. When I was alone I always loved to play my sitar where no one could hear. You sung a lot when your were alone right?"
"Yeah."
"Good! So... when your performing in front of people and you can feel all that nervousness just boiling under the surface, shut your eyes."
Shut his... eyes? "but... I have to swim around!"
"Yeah but you don't need your sight to do that!" Demyx reassured. "Anwyays, once you shut your eyes... just pretend your back home, singing in front of your mirrior - and if you mess up don't freak. Just keep thinking it's practice!"

Both of their suggestions worked to a point, but it was Axel who told him even with their advice he would still have to find his own way to become completely comfortable - his own little quirk that threw him into a sort of safety blanket.

And he'd probably only learn it the minute he was actually in the concert... today. He prayed upon prayers that he did find a way... or he was completely screwed.

"I think I'm gonna be sick!" Roxas groaned in an almost comical way.

"Ah no! Roxas breathe breathe!" Demuyx cried, unable to contain his laughter.


The 'Place' Aqua had mentioned? It was nothing more than some rundown home in the way far way of town, furthest away from everything especally people. It was shabby and unpleasant, uncomfortably dusty and dirty - but unlike the almost homely feel their home at Halloween Town had had when they lived their... this one had no comfort added to it. It was just... big and empty and LONELY. Aqua had told them it hadn't been lived in in years, said something about it being haunted.

At least the furniture was still good. He had to have Ven clean the sheets and blankets left over - which in itself was very itneresting. Their were no washers or dryers. Only a bin of water and some weird... metal... scrubber. It was an old peasant town - it had it's fields and hard laborers and old ways of doing things. Yet it reminded him of Atteris. Despite their bad reputation... they did make a living like every normal person - well except him. He wasn;t normal. Never normal. He;d done so many many jobs for just food alone - and because this town of Regole;s region was so poor he knew if he stole, he;d get in trouble.

In fact...

"alright." Aqua said as she shoved open the door. "Here you go." She turned, eyes narrowing on Terra. "YOU I want to remain OUT of sight of the villagers got it? you can travel around at night but when it's day stay out of it." She gave both of them a once over.
"If anything funny starts happening in this town thanks to you two... i'll be coming after your throats, got that cocksuckers?" She scoffed. "We'll be watching." And with that she was gone.

It was a good thing he was a hunter and this town had plenty of wildlife along the mountains. It was the spring season and in the surronding forests rabbits, birds and other animals were easy to catch. At first Ventus had been extremely squeamish about stripping and cutting them up to eat though. He cuaght Ven once or twice trying toe at a bug - but the blonde quickly found out the ones on Halloween town tasted good, anywhere else they did NOT. At least not for his tyatsebuds. Terra didn't mind them but they were more bland he would agree. Defineitly no longer their staple food.

He HAD tried catching fish, but Aqua made a quick appearence when he started going into the ocean, smacking him good voer the head with the butt of her spear. She chastised him harshly about Regole and not messing with her home. If he wanted fish, Ventus would have to work for it.

He still had the bump over his head from that day. She must of thought he was stupid or soemthing. there was no way he'd allow Ventus to WORK in conditions like these. He'd stick to catching wildlife - at least he wasn't getting in trouble for that.

Terra walked across the house, the oil lamps hanging from walls but weren't lit as of yet. strapped to his tail... was a small broom. He was sweeping it across the dusty ground. Since he was confined to the house for the better part of the day, he usually took to either sleeping or cleaning. they were still trying to restore the house to what it once was but little by little, the beauty of it was coming back. he'd already thrown out all the chipped and broken dishwear, destroyed paintings hanging off the walls, old food left behind, ratty rugs and thigns that were too distorted beyond repair.

A little crystal ball was floating clost by to him, and in the picture was a blonde with his hair strung in a ponytail. It was Ventus. He had gone into town hours ago, exploring it, trying to make new friends as well. Even though he was requested to stay away from the town, he wasn't going to shirk on his Guardian duties just because of it. He could cross this town in two minutes if he had too...

Terra leaned down, clamping his teeth around a forgotten frame, the glass in it had been broken long ago but the shards were no where in sight. He swung out to the back door of the house - left open thanks to Ventus. No one could see him from here because all that was facing the house was the trees off in the distance. He walked out and pounced, dropping the frame in the trash can. He looked around curiously, and sniffed the air, catching Xigbar's scent instantly. That meant Aqua was following Ventus. they really were keeping their eyes on them at all times.

His ears flipped back before he walked back into the house, brooming trailing after him. He wanted to make this place livable for Ventus. He knew he didn't like the world... but he'd make it bearable somehow. He knew they could always just move again but... he didn't know where he could go that would be safe enough. He didn't know any other places that could hide a Shee's energy.

He walked into the living room and then froze and gasped. On one of the mirriors, written in the dust it said 'See you tonight, bring Ven'. Mickey... was going to pay a visit to them after all this time? AND meet the Shee?! He walked overf, snapping his teeth around the handle of the duster and lifted himself up, placing his paws against the wall. He tossed his head back and forth, quickly erasing all traces of the message. He'd tell Ven later.

Did the other's get a message too?


Wings fluttered as a form jumped from rofotop to rooftop, her eyes ahead of her and zeroed in on the blonde far awa. He was... strange. Something about him just wasn;t quite right. In fact something about them both... just was odd. Out of palce. an Atterian protecting a human? Why? for what purpose?

She still didn't believe a word of it. After what had happened to Xigbar... she wasn;t going to be fooled and she hoped her partner had the forthought not to either.

She jumped down from the roof, walking after the blonde. some heads turned to see her, but then went on their merry way. they knew her and Xigbar well. They were called the 'Dragoons'. Their armor and fake wings represented what they protected. she and Xigbar... protected Regole and it's townspeople. To become a dragoon however, one had to find a dragoon stone and if you saw the reflection of a dragon... once one did it was said that fate itself had determiend that you were one of the few with the strength and capabilities to protect a dragon.

She had found her stone long ago when she was 13 and took her job with the utmost seriousness. If these creatures were here to harm Regole, she wouldn;t hesitate to take them down.

[Rikugurl]

It had been nice to meet all the creatures in the 100-Acre Woods. He was very glad that he had thought of this place. For one, it was safe. Two, it was calm and a friendly place. And the most important, it would steer the forces off their tracks to be inside a world ON a world.
He didn't know where the other's had brought their Shee... but he could tell by Sora's calmness that they were safe again too.

Rabbit reminded him of himself when he was a child. Easy to anger but never stayed that way for long.

The first night at Kanga's was nice. She was a great mom... and even reminded him of his own. Of course he didn't see her affection... but he certainly hear it.
They ate a wonderful dinner, hearing Roo talk so fast and about everything that he got caught up a few times and forgot what he was talking about in the first place. He wanted to grow up to be like Tigger... and that seemed to be a great goal.

That night, Riku slept on a futon on the floor... and it didn't take long until the Shee wrapped around him crying. He frowned and held the boy close, running his hands through his hair and calmed him with re insuring words.

The silverette seemed to... really like swinging. He loved the feel of the wind blowing through his longer hair. He always wanted to do this... but was so cut off from the world...
"I've been thinking,"
Feet slid and the silverette stopped, slowly looking towards the boy's voice.

He smiled softly as Sora's curious voice started. When he was done, Riku tilted his head but smiled more, looking off and letting the wind pick up his hair. "I don't think anyone could get too old to visit friends. You should know that Sora.... I learned that from you." He spoke softly and stood.

He walked out, next to the tree to look over the forest that he couldn't see. It was true... the Shee had taught him a lot.
He walked around the tree and whipped around the other side, about to ask Sora if he wanted to get some honey when he suddenly felt something. In the bark?
He closed his mouth and straightened, his blind hands feeling... a carving?

The fingers tracked everything and he put it together.
'Tonight, meet me here with Sora too'
"Mickey..." He whispered. It had been more than a year since they had seen the king... he wondered... what kind of news he had.


Sebastian was already out in front of the stage. He held a baton and tapped it, looking over the music and nodding. This was it!
He looked, seeing the crowd of mermaids and mermen, sea horses and all other things of the sea. Up above was an old merman with flowing white hair and beard. A golden crown was on his head and a trident in hand.
"Oh boy, I hope dat der ready!" He pulled his claws over his head and shook it.

Axel was in the back, looking in the mirror that the other performers had gotten ready with. He pull more bangles around him as he added some red makeup around his eyes. Be blinked though when he put the makeup down... and it suddenly floated, writing something on the mirror.
His eyes widened as he saw the message it spelled.
'Please meet back at the cove tonight with Roxas... and Roxas only'

His already narrow eyes narrowed more and he quickly cleaned the mirror.... with tons of water around him.
"Been long enough..." He sighed but shook his head. He would tell Roxas later. There was no way he was going to ruin the Shee's big day!
He got off the rock and quickly swam to where the other performers were, finding Roxas and Demyx quickly... along with the pup at Demyx's side.

He swam over and smiled, hearing Demyx laugh.
He smiled, seeing the worried face on the Shee's face. He put on a huge smile and elbowed the blonde. "Don't worry Roxas. This isn't suppose to be stressful. Just go out there and have fun! don't think about it... just sing your lines and dance. We'll all be having fun out there... and if you mess up, who cares! This is for enjoyment.... for everyone!"

Just as he finished talking, the curtains closed and everyone started to take their places.
Axel winked at the Shee. "Alright... good luck... and have fun!" He smiled and passed them, swimming to the claim he was going to dance over and pulling it closed.


Ven... sighed in defeat as he saw the empty home. It was rundown.. and lonely as hell. Everything was dusty and broken... as if some mad man went nuts and then left, never to return again. Even the crooked house in Halloween Town was welcoming...
"Great way to make guest feel at home!" The blonde had complained... only to end up being called a cocksucker. He could only glare at Terra, who only looked away.

The minute they were left alone... they started to work on the house. Ven was ordered to clean the sheets on the couches... and did so the old fashion way. He grumbled as he scraped the sheets in and out of the water against the metal plate, wiping some sweat away as he did so.

He also held his stomach as Terra brought home bloody animals... and was told to gut and skin them. He had done that with fish... but never animals!
He shivered and gagged as he did though, giving raw pieces to Terra here and there before they put it over a fire.
One of the days, Terra had come back with a nasty bump on his head, and the boy rubbed it a bit to make it feel better. Terra just blatantly said that they wouldn't be having fish.

The other things grossed him out so much... that when he was in the back, watching Terra sniff the air, a worm wiggled in the mud. Ven's eyes widened. Finally! Something good.
He grabbed the worm and wiped the mud off it, quickly shoving it in his mouth. He was about to crunch down when...
"AAAHHHHEEEEEWWWWWGAAAAAHHH!"
The boy yelped and spat out the earthworm, the poor thing hitting the ground all crippled.
The boy spit out the mud that was still left behind and almost fainted.
Terra only laughed.

But now that he was on a new planet... and with dirty, damp clothes... he decided to take the munny he had left and head towards the town. Terra had warned him about that crazy woman and the odd man... so Ven said he would disguise himself... as in putting his hair up in a ponytail...
He walked to town, looking for a new set of clothes and maybe making a friend or two.

That didn't end up very well. Many of the people were too busy at work... or to snobby to talk to 'dirt'.
He sighed and continued to venture for a NICE set of clothing.

Boots sunk into damp grounds as they headed to an abandoned house.
Armor and fake wings casted a shadow as the figure walked to the back door. The trashcan was full to the brim.
The helmet came off and long black and grey hair fell over the navy scales once more.

Xigbar... wasn't originally from this world.
He had come here about 16 years ago. He home world... ended up like Noir. Atterians had come and sucked the planet dry, along with those who lived on it. He was one of the very few who made it off the planet alive.

When he first crashed into the world, he fell into the ocean. He surfaced and swam to the shore, only to get kicked in the head by a little girl.
"O-ouch! What was that for!?"
"That's for swimming in Regole's waters!"
"Regole?"
The girl him him again.
"Don't be stupid!"
She huffed and stormed off.
The man who was already ripped to pieces only blacked out.

When he awoke, he was still on the shore, in between life and death. The little girl wasn't too far away from him... and he could now see that her hair was blue. He mumbled and winced, slowly looking out of the only eye that worked. Something caught his eye. Something shiny. He reached out and picked it up, looking at it. Inside... was what looked like a dragon.
"H-hey... kid." He had called. The girl looked over and walked over.
"What is it now?" She scoffed.
"What does it mean if you see a dragon in a stone?"
Her blue eyes only widened... but she smirked "It means you need to get a better hair style! You're going to be a guardian!"
The man's eyes widened. At the time, his hair was in a tight ponytail. "Guardian's have to be good looking?" He questioned playfully.
"Like YOU'D ever be good looking!"
"As if... little brat."

After that, some of the town's people helped the man to a refuge and bandaged up his wounds. They stitched things back together and put an eye patch over his missing eye. Every since his recovery, he was always seen with the girl... and grew older with her. They now lived in the same house as guardians of the townspeople and Regole.

The boards creaked as the man walked into the house. Already three days had passed and the place was starting to look homey. He walked into the 'living room', seeing the wolf erase something. He crossed his arms and tilted his head. "For an Atterian and an adolescence, you guys aren't doing too bad."

[Reno]

Sora frowned a bit, then nodded. Yeah that was true, "but it sounds nicer then thinking he's well..." He looekd away, uncomfortable with the idea of death. He heard the other shifting around behind him and sat up, glancing backwards. He saw riku walking over towards him when he suddenly froze, hands running over the bark.

He saw the look o the others face and quickly stood, hurrying over and saw the carving as well, hearing the name fall from the other's lips. "Mickey? THE King Mickey? I get to meet him?!" He said excitedly. It had been over a year and still he had seen hide nor hair of the proclaimed 'mouse' king. The same person who had abided to his mother's wishes and brought them to their new family... the mouse that had saved their lives and stayed in the shadows while keeping them protected for YEARS. He owed the little guy a lot... and he couldn't wait to go to finally thank him. He grinned excitedly when he heard a faraway voice.

"And you bounce like this Pooh ol' buddy boy!"

Ut oh, that was Tigger... trying to make Pooh bounce again! His attnetion was quickly drawn and he took off down the hill. "Tigger! Pooh can't bounce!" He yelled out the reminder, knowing it was going to be another eventful day of stories of heffalumps and woozlies, of bouncing with tigger, of stealing honey from the bees for Pooh, of watching Rabbit tend to his garden and offering to help, of... everything and anything he could think off. his mind quickly erased the memory of the message - it would be important later... but for now he had lots of friends to attend too.

He slid to a stop suddenly, remembering something and turned grinning. "come on Riku!!! It's time to play!"


"A-Axel!" Roxas called just as the other swam away but between all the hustle and bustle of the others getting ready his voice went un heard. If anything his knot got even worse. He took a deep breath, drawing his hands across his stomach. It was all okay... all okay.

"You'll do fine! Come on puppy" Demyx reassured, patting him on the shoulder before swimming away as well to join the orchestra. he slung his sitar out in front of him and treaded their, smiling at the others. There all gave him a hyper greeting and well-wishes, kind as always. He had some odd quirks and a love for music that didn't sound good but whne he played seriously, they knew he was one of the best in their bunch.

"You okay Roxas?" Ariel swam from above, looking down.

"Y-Yeah." The blonde stuttered.

"Take deep breathes."

He nodded in agreements, watching her swim off for her placement in the middle of a grove of plants, being hidden by large leafy-like plants. Her father was watching this. THE King Trident. THE KING!! "oh jeeez." He groaned taking deep breaths trying to keep down his panic. I can do this I can do this! He swam to his place hidden behind a rock, chanting his mantra quietly.

Their was a tap, then Sebastian's introduction - one that had seemed so long during practice but was so short now. Then the first song was announce and the curtain was pulled.

I CAN'T DO THIS!!!

He buried his head in his hands, trying to disappear as he heard some of the female backups beginning the first song. Instruments of music quickly joined in with the melodic voices all of the sea creatures bouncing around with each other, as the first verse quickly passed The chrous lead into the clam opening and the beautiful lead singer being revealed. Ariel took to the stage naturally and began to sing.

He was right after the chorus. He HAD to get out there NOW... but he couldn;t. He looked around frantically from his hiding spot - trying to shut his eyes but two nervous he;d swim into something - trying hard to pull his nervousness into energy and failing...

What could he do? He had to... had to!!!

Ariel was finishing the verse and suddenly Roxas' eyes caught sight of something red and beautiful swimming over head, body twisting in the water as he dance. And... and Roxas felt something odd overcome him - something he hadn;t felt in a long time.

Calm. His eyes zeroed in on Axel's dancing form and without even realziing it he had swum out into the open, just in time. He twisting in the water and suddenly sung out his verse. "Down here all the fish is hap-PY!
As off through the waves they rooooll
The fish on the land ain't hap-PY!
They sad 'cause they in their booooowl
But fish in the bowl is lucky~
They in for a worser fate!
One day when the boss get hungrrrry
Guess who's gon' be on the plate!"

Demyx grinned, hearing Roxas' voice come through perfectly. His dancing wasn't as enthusiastic as it was in practice but half of it might have to do with the fact that he couldn;t stop looking at Axel! It looked like Roxas had found his own way to get comfortable with singing - he was singing to Axel.

Ariel spared a glance towards Roxas, smiling softly as he sang his part perfectly. His attention was away from the audience but that wasn;t a bad thing. In fact, this was the first time she heard him sing it with such enthuisiasm!

"Under the sea!" All the singers chroused.


Aqua watchedthe blonde as he studied the few sewing stores and things for wear - he probably was hoping for something fancier then what they had. His clothes we're somehting knew she'd say that much. She sighed rolling her eyes as he glanced in at the thrid store, looking displeased by what he was seeing.

She walked up behind him, her reflection appearing in the glass. "Your not going to get anywhere if you keep being picky." She crossed her arms. "Our materials are in short supply, we don't have time it waste it on a fancy amount of belts and what not." She looked at him. "what were you thinking traveling without luggage anyways?"


Terra's ears twitched when he ehard footsteps in his house, the scent coming to him strongely. He wasn't surprised when the other started to talk to him, just continued to dust the mirrior until it was as clean as he could get it. He dropped down to the floor, setting the duster on the floor. he turned looking towards Xigbar quietly.

Then he tilted his head. "what is THAT supposed to mean?" He walked past the other. "I've been living on my own since I was a pup - it is not very hard to take care of one's self."

He flicked his tail, brushing the broom across the floor, dust rising from the swipes. "Even if i DON'T have opposable thumbs I can still take care of a house."

[Rikugurl]

Riku frowned as the Shee seemed pretty excited about meeting the king. Riku on the other had... wasn't so sure if it would be a good thing or not. It also didn't mean that they would be meeting the REAL king. The most they had seen of him was a picture from another world in the shape of a mouse... but the king stated that he might.... or might not be a mouse.

It didn't matter much to Riku WHAT the king was... just as he kept his side of the bargain. He didn't mind guarding Sora... it was actually turning out better than he had expected... and it seemed like he gain his first real friend.
However... he did want to see again....

He heard the noise far away too and Sora quickly left his side. The silverette sighed and shook his head. Was the king meeting the others that night too?
He wondered... what it was about.
He blinked, hearing Sora call for him. He looked towards the voice and shifted.

Riku suddenly wasn't really in the mood to play anymore... but he needed to keep his Shee happy.
"Coming!"
He called as he slowly walked down the hill.


Axel sighed as he sat in the darkness of the clam. He wondered... if Roxas was really going to be ok. He kinda felt... bad just leaving him out there. He was his guardian right!? But... he didn't want to be a pain in the ass either... and be absolutely no fun. There was no way Axel couldn't be fun! He's die before he became... boring.

The wolffish yipped happily as Demyx called for him and swam after him, circling around him as he started to set up his sitar.

When Axel heard the tap, he took a deep breath as well. What was HE so nervous for? He loved music... and as an imp, he was a natural dancer. He had done fine in practice and everything. Maybe... he was just so worried around Roxas.

Suddenly, the music started in a tropical, beautiful and upbeat way. The women started to sing and as they ended, the other creatures started to. The clam opened, revealing the lionfish merman. His hair was bright red with bright exotic green eyes, outlined with even more red. He wore shinny red bracelets and shells that picked up the sun rays, making them shine.
His fins fanned out as he started to swim to the beat.

His green eyes went astray, seeing Roxas behind a rock... and covering his face. He frowned... and even if he wasn't suppose to... he 'danced' his way above Roxas, trying to make it look like a part of the act.
Their eyes met... and he automatically knew... that everything was going to be ok.

Roxas swam up to him... and sang with the most enthusiasms that Axel had ever heard. Axel couldn't help but smile as they twirled around each other. That voice... he always wanted to hear that voice...
He took the boy's hand and smile happily, starting to dance with the boy. Their hips swished back and forth as their eyes still stuck together like glue.

"Under the sea!
Under the sea!"
They all started.

"Nobody beat us
Fry us and eat us
In FRICASSEE!!"
Demyx sang out.

"We what the land folks loves to cook
Under the sea we off the hook
We got no troubles
Life is the bubbles
Under the sea!"
Other's sang.

"Since life is sweet here
We got the beat here
Naturally!"

"Naturally-ee--ee!"
Axel and Roxas bumped their hips together.

"Even the sturgeon an' the ray
They get the urge 'n' start to play
We got the spirit
You got to hear it
Under the sea!"


The concert... by far... was a hit.


Ven stopped and blinked, looking back at the blue haired woman. He growled and started to walk off, hearing her follow him. "I lost my luggage. I lost all my clothes... all my books, all my necklaces and everything!"

He stopped and looked back at her, his face angry. "And why do you keep following me? I'm not going to do anything! Trust me! I've already been through hell and it's not even over yet. I don't need some.... some bitch following me all over the place! Leave me and Terra alone!"


A golden eye rolled as the wolf started off. "And I thought Aqua was the testiest thing on this planet. Man, Can't say one thing to you or it sets you off." He was ready to hear the wolf go off about that.

[Reno]

Sora was just about to keep going along his merry way when he noticed Riku's unhappy gait. Now Sora he DID understand that not everyone was ever happy ALL the time like he was - in fact with two emo-rific brothers it was a wonder where he got his spunk and cheer from.

But, even though it had already been a year, he already could read the simple message of 'I'm feeling forbidding things' sprt of message. Being the only other person around for miles, you learned a lot about a person and their habits and emotions through body langage, tone, all sorts of stuff.

Sora glanced back towards where he could hear Tigger's encourgaing voice and Pooh's complaints - they had lived just fine without him and Riku for decades... they'd be fine for one day.

He turned back, hurrying over. "Are you taking moping lessons fro m Eeyore or something?" He teasted lightly, wrapping his fingers lightly around riku's wrist and dragging him off down the path towards one of the most tranquil areas in this whole, small world. The brook.

He sat down beside it, the nosie of running water comforting, and shed his socks and shoes, rolling up his pant legs and dipping his feet into the water. "Ahhh... you should dip your feet in too Riku it feels WONderful." He chuckled, not surprised when the other protested. "Silly, you gotta stop missing out on the simple pleasures of life. no wonder you frown so much. Your gonna have a thousand wrinkles when your thirty."

They sat in silence for a little while then Sora tilted his head in thought. He wodnered if riku was worried that the new Mickey had to share was some sort of extension of their mission - afterall he knew the other was only doing this to get his sight back. Sure they were friends and all... but it was sort of like they were FORCED to be friends. Had he and his brothers been together... they probably woudn't have gotten as close to their guardians as they are now.

"You know Riku even if it's the worst news in the history of news... it'll be okay because we can do anything we put our minds too." Sora murmured softly, then landed down on the grass. "We're gonna get through this and you ARE getting your sight back and then everything will be okay. I'm not allowing for anything less." He teased.

From their he went on into nothing but idle conversation mostly to distract both of them from the upcoming meeting that night. Some of the topics were - quite honestly - comical. If it was an anteater up against an army of a thousand little ants with little laser guns... who would win? Or If blue and red make purple and red and yellow made orange what does purple and orange make? purange?

Some of them were slightly more serious. I've missed all the holidays this year. My parents' birthdays passed and... mothers day and fathers day and Christmas and now i have so many gifts to make up for and not even a logbook to share the stories with! And even Riku what do you think my blood parents are like? I have dreams about them sometimes... but their just blurry faces and lots of screaming and crying like someones losing a fight...

The most SHOCKING question however was one that made evem Riku hesitant. Sora had not forgotten the occurence that nearly hadn't on the ship - was it really only a few days ago? Riku is being gay bad? The question was stunning but once Riku finally stuttered out his answer, Sora did nothing but hum in thought, fall silent for a few minutes as he let the answer roll over in his head, before jumping back into other conversations, other questions his ehad seemed to be full to the brim and spilling over with. What's your home like? and What other worlds do you know about? what are they like?

Time passed and eventually it was time for dinner. they trekked home to Kanga's and ate quietly, knowing after this their lifess could be taking another violent twist.


Roxas smiled as Axel responded positively to his gaze - and soon they were dancing together, his voice ringing out loud and clear and beautiful. They were quite a pair, their twists and turns around each other magnificent as if they hadn't been dancing for three days but three years. Roxas couldn't help but laugh in excitement. This was exhilerating!!

Demyx laughed a bit, Puppy (yes Puppy was his name) swam around him doing a little fish dance all on his own. his excitement grew as his part came up. the minute he was cued, he sung out loud and clear, "Nobody beat us
Fry us and eat us
In FRICASSEE!!" His fingers ran across his sitar in an almost miniature rock chords - his signiture that surprisngly sounded GOOD with the song but probably only because it was so short - before he went back to his original playing a wide grin over his face. At first this had been so horrible but now this whole adventure was the best he'd ever had!

Yet he still forgot to ask Axel or Roxas about the wings...

The concert was in fact a hit and everyone got to take a bow by the end of it, some of them laughing. by the time they were back at the dressing room they were all congratulating each other - some of the more touchy-feeling (A.K.A. Demyx) sharing hugs.

But Axel pulled the happy blonde back eventually, murmuring something to him. "Mickey wants tos ee us tonight at the cove." Roxas' smile didn't falter - in fact if anything else it grew, excited by the prospect of finally meeting the mouse that had a hand saving his life. He nodded, saying they'd worry abut it later. It was time for something to eat!

But night would eventually come upon them as well, darkening the sea considerably.


Aqua scoffed as she was immediately brushed off then walked after him anyways, crossing her arms. "You know you'll never make friends that way acting hostile towards everything that walks on two legs." Not like she had any room to talk. "Besides be glad I even agreed to let you be here rather then carting you and your little doggie off into space."

She stopped in front of him, poking him in the chest, her eyes gleaming a bit. "I'm doing my job just like your little wolfies doing his. If what you say is true and he is your 'guardian' then you should understand this. I'm the guardian of that dragon swimming in those waters over there. This world is bent on the balance and safety of the dragons spread across this world - if we were ever to lose even one dragon on this world it would be a disaster. And one Atterian alone could take ALL of them down." She tossed her head, her hair flipping some. "Do you understand that blondie? I don't want to take any chances and if your little friend turns out to be like the one that hurt my friend Xigbar then I sealed my own region's fate. I'm not going to allow that to happen. So YES I'm going to keep watching whether you like it or not." She turned, walking off some, then stopped sighing in frustration.

"Listen kid I don't hate you or your friend. I'm just trying to get you to understand that I've been entrusted to do something and i'm not going to shirk on my duties just cause you don't like it." She sighed running her hand through her hair, trying to find a way to be civil. "And as for clothes theirs not a lot out their that's anything speacial but if your looking for exotic crap... go down that street and turn left. It'll be a building with a purple door." She continued on her way, giving a back wave to the young male.


Terra's mouth opened as if to snap back, then he sighed agravatedly, his body seeming to slump some like a human's did when they felt upset and defeated. "I'm sorry." He murmured - a surprise even for him. He hardly ever apologized. "It's just the way I am. I've been criticized nearly all my life and when I was a younger pup I had nothing to fight back with but my words. So it's a habit." Heh... no wodner Ven hated him sometimes. He was just too much.

He passed another broom, this one bigger and longer. he leant down, teeth clamping around it and he tossed his head, releasing it. the broom clattered and rolled until it tapped against Xigbar's feet. "Listen if you're going to stay you MIGHT as well help clean. It's not very good manners to stand around in someone's house and not help out." So he was giving the man a decision - help clean or get the fuck out.

Whther Ven took Aqua's direction and went to the clothing store to find 'exotic' things or Xigbar took Terra's advice and helped clean was irrelevant. by that night, Terra had caught dinner, informed Ven on how to skin it - again - ate some of the raw meat happily and then finally revelaed that yes indeed they were being visited that night.

That's how they found themseleves holed up in the master bedroom were they had taken to sleeping - curtains drawn to keep Aqua and Xigbar's watchful eyes from looking in. Ven was laying across the bed and Terra once again had found place on the floor, both just waiting pateintly for the meeting to begin.

Aqua's eyes were narrowed on the house. something strange was going on. The curtains had never been drawn before. "We need to get closer." she whispered to xigbar. This was something they needed to hear!


In a world farther away were two mermen holed up in a cove, tails intertwined with one another and seaweed drawn over them to keep them warm in the dark area. Roxas was laying against the other, a soft smile on his face still proud of himself for today. He sung he did it! Axel, Demyx and Ariel had all been right! he COULD do it. He couldn;t wait to tell his brothers... if he ever saw them again.

Demyx swam quickly, through the cold water, coming into the clearing he had first come into. He caught a hint of the red taile scaping inside the cove and nodded. they were UP to soemthing and he wanted to know what. He glanced atthe wolfpup hearing it trying to yap and grabbing it's muzzle, "Sssh Puppy! we need to be quiet!!"


On a third world that lived on another world, a small brunette sat upon a wooden swing, legs dangling, a silverette leaning against the rough bark of a tree his customary position for these meetings.

"Maaaan~" Sora whined. "Is this gonna take much longer? I want to sleep sometime today!"


Despite all expectancies, it still took almost ten more minutes of quiet silence and soft spoken words before anything happened. in a clearning of the woods, and a cove underwater, and a house in a water land a small golden light formed, glowing bright. Demyx would gasped softly, seeing the light spilling from the cave. Aqua would tense, the light unable to be hidden even by the curtains - that was no oil lamp!

But then, as all six watchers on all three worlds studied the light, waiting for it's customary greeting, they got something different. the light split in half and then in each two pictures were shown.


Roxas' eyes widened as he studied the pictures coming into focus like adjusting a camera and gasped sharply. "SORAN! VENTUS!" He yelled, forgetting to stay quiet like Axel had always said.


Sora jumped in his seat as the picutres appeared, Roxas' voice coming through LOUD and clear! "Roxas!!" He grinned and turned his eyes, staring into the reflection of his other shocked brother. "Ven!! Oh man guys I miss you so much!!"

Their youngest brother laughed, nodding in agreement. "Oh man guys theres so much I wanna tell you!"

"Me too me too!"


Terra's ears twitched and his eyes widened, suddenly hearing voices spilling from the lights. He stood and without waiting for permission jumped upon he bed, coming up beside Ven and looking in the balls of light. in one reflection he could see Axel and Roxas huddled together in a dark surronding the light of the... lights illuminating them both. the bubbles apeparing around them gave him the impression that they were under water. Not to ention he could see the tails. Axel had gone to Atlantica afterall. No wodner he was able to touch Roxas.

He glanced at the next one, seeing Sora sitting on a swing, enthisiastic smile beaming back, and he saw something move in the corner of the screen, sppeaing beside the brunette. Riku, looking cheery as ever. "Axel. Riku." He said, nodding to each in greeting even if one of them couldn't see it.

He didn't understand what was going on or why the king was showing them each other, but he was a buit worried about Ventus respond to this. He had so adamently refused watching his brothers beforehand - but he could guarentee right now he wouldn't of been able to open communication lines between them either. this was different... he hoped.

[Rikugurl]

Riku stopped as Sora came back to him. He blinked, hearing the Shee chuckle and mention something about Eeyore. He laughed and shook his head. There was no way he could EVER get that pessimistic... even if he tried.

A small blush ran over his face as he felt the other wrap his arms around his waist and lead him down the hill. He could hear the bubbling of water, knowing that they were at the brook. Slowly he sat down next to the Shee.
He frowned when the boy told him to stick his feet in but he shook his head. Sora insisted.
"Alright, alright." The silverette smiled and pulled off his boots and put them to the side. He smiled at the comment of getting wrinkles. "You get wrinkles when you smile too." He pointed out happily. "You'll get them as bad as me." He stuck his feet in after rolling up his black slacks and smiled contently. It... really did feel nice... and the little sucks from the fish made him smile even more.


Some of the creatures of the world wanted to talk to Sora... but once they saw the two having a nice conversation, they left.

"If it was an anteater up against an army of a thousand little ants with little laser guns... who would win?"
The silverette chuckled. "Depends on how hungry the anteater was."

and

"If blue and red make purple and red and yellow made orange what does purple and orange make? purange?"
"Maybe it just makes ugly."

Then came the more serious ones.

"Riku, what do you think my blood parents are like? I have dreams about them sometimes... but their just blurry faces and lots of screaming and crying like someones losing a fight..."
Riku frowned slightly. They probably weren't dreams... but visions. "I don't know... they were probably brave... and cheerful. Kinda like someone I know."

The thing that got him though was one of Sora's last question.

"Riku, is being gay bad?"
The silverette tensed, his eyes widening a bit. He looked down, his silver hair covering his face. "I-I don't think so. I mean... I don't know much about love... but... I remember something my mom said to me when I was growing up."
"Oh? What was that?"
The young man only looked over to the Shee, his dull, blind eyes staring right into Sora's.
"That love... is blind."

Sora quickly changed the subject. Riku explained that he came from a tropical island that had a crystal clear ocean surrounding it. There were palm trees and yellow star shaped fruit. Houses were make of wood and the sand was warm all day long.

They talked until one of the creatures did finally interrupt. Roo. It was time for dinner. Riku and Sora dried their feet and walked back to the tree where they would eat dinner. Riku of course wasn't very hungry that night... but Kanga insisted.


Axel and Roxas smiled as they bowed at the end of the show. They waved happily at the crowd who cheered them on. King Triton was even clapping happily, a large smile on his face.
After all that, the performers went out back to take off all their costumes and things.
Axel and Roxas's hands never split.

The green eyed imp looked around, his red hair floating around his small black horns. He suddenly pulled Roxas to the side.
"I got a message... before the concert. The King wants to see us in the cove tonight."
Roxas only seemed to be getting happier... which made Axel calm about bad news.

The pup yipped happily as he swam around all the performers that Demyx hugged. Everyone seemed so happy!


Ven continued to frown and growl as the woman followed him. His blue eyes blinked as her index finger was shoved into his chest. He frowned more... but listened... unlike what he usually did. One ear and out the other.
He looked away, the frown still on his face. He understood... it was her job like Terra's job was to guard him... but SHE didn't have to be so NASTY too.

Did you HAVE to be a nasty person to be a guardian?
Were his brother's guardian's like this too?

He sighed as he saw the woman walk off and was about to turn when she started to talk again. He sighed but nodded, seeing her wave. Slowly he turned, looking in the direction that she had told him. He walked down the street, thinking about it all. Dragons? Couldn't dragons take care of themselves?
He shook his head and found the purple door.

Unfortunately... they didn't have anything that caught his eye either.


Xigbar saw the other one about to yap... but stopped. He grinned but frowned as he saw the wolf slump. That wasn't like Atterian's to do. This one really was a dud. His golden eye watched the wolf like creature continue to dust... which was quite a scene itself. When Xigbar thought of Atterians... all he could see was blood, claws and fangs... not... sweeping.

He could only smirk as he heard the wolf's comment about good manners. It seemed like Xigbar had lost all his manners thanks to Aqua. She really rubbed off on him.
"As if." He smirked as he slowly left the house, grabbing the trash can and pulling the trash away.



Riku leaned on the large tree as they waited in the darkness. The stars were out again and shining like diamonds in the sky. Or at least... that was what Sora had said they looked like. Riku knew the view well though..

His hood covered his face in darkness as he let the breeze flap at his jacket.
He shifted though as he heard Sora get off the swing. He stayed in the same place... but what shocked him was that he didn't hear the small noises of the King... just Sora... calling his brothers.

He blinked as he heard Terra's voice... and then Axel. He just nodded and pulled his hood down.
What... was going on?


Ven came home empty handed... but he smiled as he saw how well the house looked. All the trash was gone and everything was dusted and swept. The minute Ven cam home, Terra left for food.
He came back with some ducks and Ven quickly took them. His stomach was growling as he started to pluck the feathers out and put it over the fire.

That was when Terra told him the news. After their meal, the two went into the master bedroom. Ven sat on the bed as Terra pulled the sheets over the window and then laid on the floor. He sighed, slowly laying down and waiting in silence.

Outside, up in a tree, three eyes looked down at the now covered window.
The yellow one glances at the blues and nodded. Slowly they climbed from the tree quietly and moved through the grass to the window.
Suddenly, a piercing light came from the window and both their eyes narrowed.

Ven's eyes widened as he saw the light. He sat up and hardly felt the weight on the bed. He gasped a bit as he saw the light suddenly split. He bit his lip as he saw visions in the light. It was... Sora.... and Roxas.
He hadn't seen them... in over a year.
His blue eyes looked down slightly. His brother's looked different... more grown up... and he wasn't even able to grow up with them. Roxas out of the two looked VERY different.

The other thing was... they both looked extremely happy.
Ven hadn't been extremely happy... since they left Akbar.
He sighed softly, an pushed a small smile on his face.
"Hey guys."
This... didn't feel real...


Axel sighed as they went to the cove. He... really wanted to do something special after the performance. He knew of something that would just make Roxas's day even better... but... they had to meet the king.
They swam back to cove after eating and wrapped themselves in the seaweed there. The ocean got cold at night.

Their tails twisted together as they sort of snuggled in the covers. Both blinked when they looked up, seeing a bright light.

The pup followed Demyx as they swam back to the cove and was about to yip when the blonde grabbed his mouth. His eyes widened as he looked up at the blonde but nodded, following him as they swam down closer.
He was about to yip again when Demyx closed his mouth again and hold him to hush.

Axel's eyes widened when he saw the visions, seeing the other Shee and the guardians. Roxas left is side happily and Axel swam over too.
"OH MY GOD! Hey guys!" Axel waved cheerfully to Riku (who wouldn't be able to see) adnd Terra. "How have you been!?"

[Reno]

"What in the world is going on?" Roxas asked softly, his eyes drifting from one sight to the other. Why was... he able to see and ehar his brothers all of a sudden and after ALL this time... Could Mickey ALWAYS do this? Damn it why couldnlt he of done it on their birthday?! or the day after they got chased down?! He had really wanted to see them both then!


Sora's eyes were automatically drawn to Ventus when he heard his less then enthusiastic response. He frowned some. "Ven you look like you need a major hug." Of course Ven wouldn't accept it but he'd never seen Ventus this down before except for the time when he turned 13 and was denues once again the chance to ride in a hot air balloon - soemthing about that year hadn't suited well with Ven. He had gotten so excited saying how he was a teenager and was going to ride in it for SURE that year because even though he was short he wasn;t a kid anymore and... well mom and dad said no.

But the only reason Sora could think of that could make his brother's smile recede so much - except maybe the seperation itself - was the ANIMAL he was with! His eyes narrowed onto Terra. "Have you been taking care of my brother?!"


Roxas also took notice of Ven's unhappy look and chuckled faintly when the brunette gave the wolf the third degree. Sora was very protective of them, always had been, and anytime anyone messed with either one of them he jumped onto them and annoyed the hell outta them until they apologized.


Terra's ears twitched, looking towards Axel when the red-head asked. He shrugged. "Depends on who you ask." He informed - second later he heard the angry question from the brunette Shee and looked over. He was started to get sick of all this mistrust in him - it wasn't his fault he sucked at social skills and Ven practically hated him. Atterians WEREN'T social creatures - why did Mickey choose him out of everyone to do this anyways? "Again: depends on who you ask."

Sora seemed to blink in curiosity, getting the hint. He looked towards his blond brother, frowning a bit. "Ven... are you okay?"


Meanwhile outside the home, two guardians of a dragon were lsitening in, their ears close to the glass. The voices were surprisngly coming through nice and clear - as if it was predicted they would be listening and were beign allowed too.

Aqua's eyes narrowed, hearing the newer strange voices - enthusiastic hello's and monotone answers from Ven and Terra both. What... was going on? What MAGIC was this?

Could it be a seance? Were the two talking to the bed or something?

Ven had a BROTHER?


Meanwhile, Demyx had slowly started to swim closer until he was at the edge of the cove, keeping a firm hold on Puppy's mouth so he didn't make any noise. He made sure he stayed out of sight and his eyes widened hearing roxas speaking to some one and getting NASWERS back. Same with Axel. Who... and HOW were they talking to anyone.

He wanted to peek inside to see if he could see anyone else butknew if he did he'd be spotted immediately.

[Rikugurl]

Riku blinked as he heard the conversation. So... Terra was still the same old... even after the year? Axel sounded the same as well.... but that wasn't so much a bad thing... unless you were trying to get some sleep and some big mouth was awake.

He crossed his arms as Sora seemed a bit worried. He really did care for his brother's... didn't he?

Ven blinked, hearing Terra give the monotone answer. He glared at the other then looked back at Sora. "Yea. I'm fine." He waved it off and smiled.
I wish I had a guardian like yours...

Xigbar raise his eyebrow and glanced at Aqua. What was going on inside? He could hear voices that he had never heard before... but no one had entered the house except for Ven that evening. Something strange was going on.

Axel blinked but smiled. "Oh come on Terra! Cheer up!" He knew Ven wasn't the.... happiest boy... and maybe it wasn't all Terra's fault for the boy's poutyness.
"It's good to see you all again!" He smiled even more and looked at Roxas who seemed to be pretty happy too.

Narrow eyes looked around slightly.
"So... Mickey... is this just what you wanted to do?"

[Reno]

Aqua's eyes had gone wide at the mention of the name Mickey. Mickey... as in King Mickey - THE King Mickey?! Of course she knew who he was. There wasn't a world in space that hadn;t at least HEARD of the famous mouse king and his amazing deeds to the universe.

"No of course not." Was the immediate answer. Terra, Riku and Axel were all used to it but Roxas seemed to yelp and fall back against his guardian, Sora jumped, and Ventus was looing around suspiciously.

"What the heck?!" Roxas cried.

"Don't be alarmed young one," The chipper voice said. Roxas was watching the lights and each time the voice spoke the lights seemed to pulse and ripple like water... it was very odd.

"This is just my means of communication. The reason I did this was because it is just simpler to deliver the emssage onceinstead of three times - and I thought you three needed to see each other again like this before seeing each other in person once more."

"In person?!" Sora said, enthusiastic once more. "Are we going home?!"

"We get to see each other!!" Roxas crowed, his smile turning brillant.

"Mickey what's going on why now?" Terra demanded, unsure if this turn of events was a good thing.

The lights seemed to become a little overwelmed as almost everyone started to speaking at once, some joyful, others skeptical. "now now!" he spoke, quickly cutting off all queries. "How will I ever answer if you don;t stop asking?" He laghed, his voice pleasant and kind. "Don't worry I'll explain but FIRST... Axel, Roxas, Terra, Ventus, maybe you should invite your guests in. They might as well be seen to hear this as well rahter then hiding."

Demyx tensed his hands looosening and suddenly Puppy was free and barking and he desperately tried to shush him quiet.

"Wha..." Roxas started and then his eyes narrowed, hearing a yip and a shushing and turned his head towards the entrance of the cove. "Demyx... you and Puppy might as well come in here."

The yellow-tailed mermaid looked in guiltily and then swam forth getting inside the crowded cove. "I-I'm sorry it's just you both ran - well swam - off so fast i was worried and uh well curious and stuff and... s-sorry..."

Terra's eyes narrowed and he glanced towards the side. He could hear roxas and Axel making a commotion on their end - and a new voice suddenly coming to scene. Terra hopped from the bed and walked over to the window, his teeth grabbing onto the curtain and tugging it down revealing two guilty guardians right outside the window. Aqua;s eyes had gone wide and was just staring inside, seeing the lights and... what WAS this?

"Majesty... are you sure it's okay?" Terra asked.

"Yes. Go ahead." The mouse reassured. "They're good people."

Terra frowned a bit, then looked up at them. "Go around the back door it's unlocked then come on inside here."

Aqua blinked then looked at Xigbar. they were the guardians of this planet... and now theyw ere being invited to figure out exactly what these two new strangers were doing here - she was NOT passing up the opportunity. "Alright." she walked off and towards the back door, navigating her way though the house until she came into the bedroom - luckily unlocked and stepped inside. Terra had jumped back onto the bed and without much of an option she walked over and sat down as well, joining the already crowded bed. she looked past them, into the two bubbles of light, amazing that she could see PEOPLE in them. "What sorcery is this?"

Sora's eyes widened, watching the scenes take place before him - seeing a blonde and... what the heck sort of fish was that?! - appear next to Roxas and Axel. Then he looked towards Ventus' world seeing a blue haired woman walk in and grew excited. "Hey you have wings!!"

Aqua seemed to look uncomfortable, staring back towards the brunette. "Uh...Y-yeah... They aren't real though..."

[Rikugurl]

Riku frowned as he tilted his head. Damn... he really wish he could SEE what was going on. Things were becoming... a bit confusing. He jumped a bit when he heard about them meet.
"Seeing each other again?" He added with the other's questions.

Axel's eyes widened as he said something about their company. He too suddenly heard the bark and looked back, seeing a blonde tap his fingers together. Axel frowned a bit as Demyx swam over. What a sneak! Reminded him of himself. They all crammed in together and Axel pouted. Talk about loss of personal space!

Ven blinked as well, watching Terra leave the bed and to the window. He yelped as he saw the to staring in like deer in the headlights. Damn those two...
He sighed as Terra came back... and suddenly heard the noises of people coming in.

The bed lowered even more as Aqua sat down, and a man stood next to the bed.
This, was all very odd.

[Reno]

Roxas shifted some and then moved even closer to Axel to give Demyx more room, his tail intertwining with the imp's. Demyx sighed as he moved closer, knowing he was stuck in this emss whether he wnated to be or not. he probably shouldn;t have wlaked through the portal - then again that leopard probably would have eaten him.

He curled his arms around Puppy, hugging him close and looked up towards the pictures before him and his jaw dropped. "whoa! Roxas you have a twin!"

"Triplets actually!" Sora chimed, waving towards the newcomers with a grin.

"Really! Whoa that's awesome! Why didn't you guys tell me?!"

"Uh... personal reasons?" Roxas stuttered.

"Welp I suppose the cat's outta the bag guys." Mickey interuppted once more - it was unnerving for Aqua, Xigbar and Demyx two, hearing the unseen voice. "Yet, after I'm done here what you three - or technically four decide to do - is completely up to your own judgement."

"Whoa whoa WAIT a second. what IS going on? Are you REALLY King Mickey?" Aqua demanded snappishly.

"I am, but whether you believe it or not is up to your own judgement."

Aqua's eyes narrowed. "Well... if you are... then what happened 12 years ago on this planet?"

"Mmm... 12 years... ah! wasn't that when Zieg got sick? I believe i paid a visit to Dragoon and shared some dark energy with him and he was up and flying by the next day." That was why Mickey was so well known - he had saved one of the dragons back when she was still a kid. she heard rumors of the mouse king who had dropped by. No one not even the dragoons or spring were able to stop the dark dragon's failing health, but then a mouse dropped from the sky, offering his energy to help heal him. And it had worked.

Aqua stuttered a bit, then dropped her head. "It's uh... nice to meet you your majesty. I'm Aqua and this is my partner Xigbar."

"Ho, ho you haven't met me yet young one. But, you are going to be given the chance too."

Enough was enough. "What's going on!" Terra snapped, trying to get this whole scene back on track. "Mickey why... why are you talking about us all meeting again? And what do you mean about these newcomers?"

"My my alright. I suppose we could quit the jovial banter. Well then, Aqua, Xigbar and Demyx was it?" the three gave answering nods. "Alright, do any of you know the history of the Shee?"

"The she...?" Demyx asled. "Uh... like as in uh... girls?"

Roxas rolled his eyes, hitting him over the head. "Shee! Si-he! Fairies!"

"O-Oh... uh... yeah a little. I mean the gypsies talked about then as some of the most powerful creatures in the world..."

"They're extinct." Aqua said plainly.

"Not quite. Ventus, Roxas... and Sora." All three drew their heads up, curious. "These three are the last alive. And Terra, Axel and Riku are their guardians."

".... you're having an ATTERIAN guard a SHEE?!"

[Rikugurl]

Riku sighed too. This was taking pretty long... and his nerves were at end. He knew something big was coming up... and people who weren't even guardians were knowing about this all. The thought it would of been safer in the small numbers... but he couldn't question the king.

Ven frowned as he looked at the woman. What a piece of work she was... How could she question the KING of all people!?

Xigbar blinked too as she questioned the light. It was a bit hard t believe too... but his eyes widened as the light replied. He... really was the king... and then...
".... you're having an ATTERIAN guard a SHEE?!"

The Atterian was obviously a traitor.
Atterians lived for power.
Shee's were pure power.
How....?

He looked back at the blonde who was sitting on the bed. Terra had brought one of three Shee left to Dragoon? It was... kinda of a honor. He looked away, feeling bad that he accused such a being of hurting anything... but he, like Aqua, had to protect the dragons no matter what.

Axel rolled his eyes when he heard the blonde. She.... haha. For once, he thought he found someone more simple than him... but he couldn't say that really.
"So... what will I be guarding?"
"A Shee!"
"Oh? What's her name?"
Yea... he had been there and done that.

Riku slowly walked to Sora's side.
"I guess the Shee will be gaining even more guardians...?"