Of Fairytales

[Rikugurl]

The kiss was broken... and Ventus finally realized what was happening. He shivered, the warmth of Terra leaving him. The water rippled softly as the elaborate wings softly flapped. His blue eyes looked down as he swallowed. Guess... there was no turning back now...
He had wanted to show Terra his wings here... because it was the safest place to do so. No Atterian was stupid enough to go through the desert... unless they had a 'guardian' with them.

But... he wasn't expecting them to just.... burst out...

He frowned, feeling his body shiver. "I... as... you can see.... I... I'm not an Atterian..." He swallowed as he closed his eyes. "I'm sorry... if I led you down a false direction..." He slowly looked up, still seeing the uncertain look on Terra's face. "My...my full name is Ventus... and... I'm a prince of the Shee." He swallowed once more before continuing. "M-my parents believe... that.... Atterians... do have hearts... a-and... I wanted to find one...."

He slowly walked forward, his hand reaching out and gently brushed Terra's cheek. A soft smile arose as his blue eyes shimmered, the reflection of the water doing the same to his wings. "And... I think I found one..."


A shiver ran down through the silverette's back as their lips brushed. Slowly he pulled away, but before anything else could happen, arms were around his neck and he was pulled down again. His eyes widened as their lips joined once more, pressing harder this time. Strong hands gripped onto Sora's waist as Riku tried to catch his balance.

Softly he pulled away, but not very far for Riku's voice pressed against Sora's lips. "Sora..."
Aquamarine eyes looked deep into the blue before he tilted his head again, and pressed their lips together once more.

Before lips could open though, Riku pulled away after hearing a sudden beeping. He frowned, looking down at Sora's watch.


Axel blinked as he was pounced on, his bat-like wings flapping as he fell over. He looked up, grinning as the blonde came close.
Well... this would be one of his first hugs too.
That was something else imps didn't know how to do.
Slowly he wrapped his arms around the other's waist, a soft purr coming from him as his small horns rubbed against Roxas's hair.

"All day?" He questioned, his eyes and voice dreamy. "I'll have to make a list them..." He grinned more as a snaky tongue slithered out and his tail wagged.

[Reno]

Terra was quiet, watching Ven's every movement as he explained. His eyes stayed especally concious of the red wigns perched on the other's back.

'Not an Atterian.' No duh.

'Sorry... false direction...' Tch, he wasn't that fooled.

'Ventus... prince of the Shee' Wait, back up! What?!?! The PRINCE?!

'Hearts... want to find one...' ... Eh?

The next thing he was aware of was the hand brushing along his cheek. He looked at the other, his emotionless expression never wavering. He reached up, curling his fingers into the others hand and tugged it away. He kept his hand clasped with the other's lowering it until they were half submerged in the water and Terra bowed his head, processing what he just heard.

"I became a total outcast when you were born." His mom tilted her head. "You know why?"
Terra shook his head.
"Because... I'm one... of the only Atterians... who know how to love." She pressed a finger on his chest, where his heart was, and smiled. "And taught this to you too."

"I wish..." He murmured softly. "You could of met my mom." He whispered softly. "She loved me and thanks to her... I'm... well, who I am."

Terra let go of Ven's hand suddenly and his own shot out, wrapping around Ven's shoulder and he abruptly turned the other around so his back faced him. The wings stared him in the face. They spread out like a butterflies, perfectly symmtrical, and looked like flames - full of red and orange and yellow shades to crate a beautiful concoction. He reached out brushing a hand against each wing gently, feeling the powdery surface, the soft, fragile texture.

Ven was shaking a little though and he could smell the fear still running off the other. Especally in this position. He knew why though. The wings were the Shee's weakspot. His father had trained him endlessly on this topic. If a Shee's wings were ripped out it would die - whether he was their to finish the job or not. It had something to do with their 'balance'. Even just dmagaing the wings could be fatal. All he understood would it by just like ripping out a Shee's heart - except a much, much slower and more painful death.

God what his father wouldn't give to be in his position. The killing of the prince would raise the otherwise obliterated Tellus name back home.

"I knew you weren't an Atterian the second I met you." The brunetted started slowly. "Your scent didn't match. You never changed. You never got tough or acted rough. You were interested in me but you didn't try anything. You know nothing of anything in town. You know how to use utensils. You helped me live." He brushed his hands along the base of the wings. "But the biggest thing that tipped me off? You knew the words 'You're welcome'. Only my mom and me... knew those words. I just... never thought you'd be a Shee."

He drew his arms around the other's waist and brought him agaisnt his chest, wings and all. "Stop shaking." He whispered in the other's ears. "I'm nothing to be afraid of. I've learned a lot since I've been in that library, including this thing called 'friendship'. That's what we have, right? And possibly... more?" His ears twitched, hearing something low and beeping but he disregarded it for now. He wanted his answer.


Sora was starting to wish he was just a little taller as Riku pulled away once again. His cheeks were flushed with pleasure and he smiled hearing his name, sending a pleasant thrill down his spine. "Riku." He breathed back, moments after their lips met again.

But then that dreadful beeping drew him apart and he glanced at the watch, seeing the H. His shoulders slumped a little but he knew if it was night here day was probably breaking back at home. Pretty soon the castle would be bustling with people and the town would be full of customers. Hopefully his brothers would cover for him so he could catch some extra sleep too - he didn't think he could do swimming lessons on two hours of sleep.

"I gotta get home." Sora said reluctantly, his eyes full of hesitation. He WANTED to stay. But he knew.. he couldn't.

He got on his tip-toes, giving Riku a simple yet sweet kiss before reaching down, picking up the bag and walking back down the road. He paused though and looked back, seeing Riku still standing there, that sad, uncertain look back on his face. Did Riku... not believe that he would be back the next day?

He bit his lip, before calling. "RIKU!" The other looked at him. "Don't forget! Tommorrow you're teaching me how to swim! Be there bright and early!" He offered the other his brightest of smiles before waving and parting away once more. Once he was back on the beach and out of sight of any commoners looking from the windows he let his wings spread and away he went.


Roxas could barely contain a giddy giggle as the other hugged back and nuzzled him. His toes curled in his shoes as a smile spread across his lips. And he wished he didn't have to leave.

"I can't wait." He said happily, wishing he was tommorrow and not Sora. He unwillingly pulled away, smiling sadly. "I'll see you tommorrow. With hot chocolate..." A spur of the moment idea hit him suddenly and he became excited. So excited that the fact that he was only going to catch three hours of sleep at most today no longer mattered. "And something else. Oh you'll love it!"

He laughed softly before getting to his feet, seeing Axel already getting that look on his face, that 'Tell me, tell me!' look. "It's a suuuurprise." He laughed and before the other could attack him for answers Roxas turned away and in the blink of an eye was gone.

When he got back on Norn he groaned audibly, falling onto the side of the fountain as all his exhaustion came back to him all at once. He drew his wings in feeling them shivered with the aching in his shoulders that he had completely forgotten about the minute he saw Axel.

He was pretty sure it had something to do with the lack of balance on Tarsa that made coming home so horrible for him. His very wings thrived on the balance but on that world... everything changed. No matter how tired he was when he left, it seemed to all just melted away when he stepped foot on the ashy ground.

But like an alarm clock when he was back home his inner balance reminded his body of all that it missed and more. Hell he could even taste the beginnings of a hangover and he had only one cup!

"Hey you alright?"
Roxas opened his eyes and glanced up. Soran. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just incredibly tired."
His brother sat down next to him, smiling softly. He knew it wasn't the entire truth. Ven had the same problems sometimes - Atteris had little balance as well. "I bet. Today was a hell of a day."
Roxas slid his eyes shut and shook his head, trying not to remember the days earlier events. Not when he had all of the pleasant ones with Axel to keep instead. "I'm fine really." He glanced at the other. "Please tell me it won't be as horrible when you leave? 'Cause I refuse to dye my hair brown."
Soran blinked, then laughed heartily. "I hope not! But Ven's trickier then both of us."
"Tch if I don't kill him first." A pause then, "So you excited? About tomorrow?"
Soran blinked, then grinned widely a smitten look passing over his face. "Yeah. I'm gonna learn how to swim!"
"And what, Riku's gonna pretend CPR on you?"
A happy sigh. "Yeaaaah- I mean what!?"
Roxas chuckled, shaking his head. "Oh Soran, you are so in love."
The blue-winged Shee was silent as he placed his head in his hands, a gaga smile spreading across his lips. "Yeah, I am."

Tch, figures Soran would be the first to admit it outloud. Roxas hadn't even done that - although it was no secret he was head over heels for the imp, not even to Axel himself.

[Rikugurl]

Ven swallowed as he looked at Terra's face. It seemed to do a 180 from only moments ago. Shit... he hated how his passion flared his wings out... He didn't have the balance that Sora did...
He gasped as Terra tugged his hand away and fear shot down into his heart, making the wings brighten.

What made him start to shake was when Terra turned him around... his wings exposed to a Shee 'enemy'. He leaned a little, holding his bare chest as his wings twitched.
I trust you.... I....trust you... He closed his eyes as his wings twitched with him. He knew... that one yank could kill him... one uncaring touch would put him in his death bed.

Since he was so frightened... he couldn't pull his wings back in... but... he didn't want to... because... his heart... trusted Terra.
His wing flinched as it was touched, and he looked back a bit, listening to what Terra had to say. He supposed... he made a bad Atterian... only a black or purple wing could probably pull it off...

His eyes widened as he was suddenly pulled against the other's bare chest. His wings wrapped around himself as some brushed on Terra's cheek. He closed his eyes, his hands running over Terra's arm as his heart stopped racing. His eyes opened slowly, the blue pouring out from blonde lashes. He slowly looked up, the blue looking through the spiky hair. Slowly he pulled away and turned, facing Terra again with a soft smile. He had heard Terra's stomach growl... but he would be quick.

"Terra..." He started before looking down slightly.. but looked up again. Gin taught him not to have a confrontation without staring the person in the eye.
He shook his head but smiled again softly. "I... want to show you... a different kind of love... one that... your mother couldn't show you..." He was about to continue when he suddenly heard something come from his cloak that he was wearing.
His watch.

He frowned before looking back up at Terra, his eyes softening. "I... need to go... There's some berries in the bushes and some small fruit in the trees... I... I'll be back tomorrow..."
He figured leaving Terra here wouldn't be such a bad idea... besides... he didn't have the supplies to bring the Atterian back to his home.

He came in close, placing a soft kiss on the brunette's lips. He slowly ran his fingers though the other's hair again. "I'll come back for you..." He whispered softly as he pulled away once more.


Aquamarine eyes frowned at the news. He blinked at the sweet kiss... and watched Sora rush off. His eyes became sad, along with his face. he wasn't sure if he was sad... but he knew... he was pretty confused. His eyes perked though as he heard Sora call back... and a smile ran over his face. "Alright!" He waved the brunette off before watching him disappear.

He looked back at the house, not seeing any sign of his mother spying on him.

He looked back at the empty road and sighed, shaking his head. He...kissed Sora. He... kissed another guy...
What... what was going on...? And... why did that satisfy him more than when he kissed Kairi like that...?
He swallowed before rubbing his arm, turning around and walked back to his house.


Axel's tail wagged as he heard about the hot chocolate! As long as it had the world HOT in it, he was sure he'd looooove it!
He blinked though as Roxas said he would have something else. His eyes got to the size of a seagull's egg as he followed the boy towards the window. "Tell me! Tell me!" He plead before getting on his knees and crawled.

He pouted though when he got his answer. MAN... he couldn't wait ALL day for a gift! It was going to KILL him.
He waved though as Roxas was gone and sighed, his wings drooping a bit. No far.... BUT HE HAD STUFF TO DO! He needed to think of something to do with the prince.
Something.... fun....


A blonde walked from the portal and looked around, seeing the night sky lighten up the fountain... and seeing his brothers sitting there. He walked over, his face bright, happy and looking accomplished.... however... Roxas eyed him... and... it wasn't looking all so happy.
"W-what...?"

[Reno]

Terra smiled softly, as their lips brushed on last time. "I know you will." He watched the other wade back to his clothes, and with one final glance back and a bit of magic, Ven was gone.

Terra's smile fell a little. "A different kind of love?" He waded over to the water's edge and pulled himself out. "Maybe like how anger and happiness are induced by different things?" He mumbled thoughtfully.

But when his mom had spoken of love, it seemed much grander. Like the alpha of all emotions - or like it wasn't even an emotion at all. It was in a category all it's own. "I guess I didn't study hard enough." Terra sighed. He'd read romance novels, fairytales, self-help books, though the sections with lvowe were relatively small and written in such a way that he could barely believe them or their validity.

He did hope Ven did teach him something about this other love. If Terra was anything he was a good student, always eager to learn.

He couldn't wait until tommorrow. But for now, breakfast. And some exploring!


Roxas sighed as he sat there, when he ehard footsteps approaching. He looked up and suddenly his eyes met the same blue as his own, though Ventus's was brighter from happiness. Oh he BETTER be happy. "YOU!!!" Roxas suddenly vaulted from his seat as if he were going to tackle the other and pummel him into the ground.

Soran watched nervously as his brothers squared off. He saw a twitch from Roxas and quickly jumped into action. "Okay!" Soran's arms closed around his littest brother's middle - though with the flapping white and black wings it was a little hard to hold on. "Roxas breathe!"

Roxas struggled against the other's hold pointing at Ven. "You have NO idea what we've been through! We got like THREE lectures at dinner from dad and, and I had to fly my ass to the library so much my wings probably have blisters and and..." He crossed his arms grumbling. "Where the fuck did you get such a strong grip Soran?"

"Where'd you get such strong language?" Soran teased back before turning around and setting Roxas down. He turned to face his warrior of a brother again, grinning. "Don't mind him, he's just really tired and sore." His smile turned mischevious as he indicating Roxas' wings which still had splashes of red, yellow and orange on them. "We had LOADS of fun while you were gone."

"Tch, whatever." Roxas grumbled sourly, not turning to face his brother he was angry with.

Soran pat the other on the head before smiling at Ven. "So, how'd it go?!" He indicating wildly at the fountain.

[Rikugurl]

Ventus blinked as his brother suddenly shot out and his wings exploded into brightness again. His happy eyes darkened as he growled at his brother, feeling a bit defensive. "Hey! I'm sure WE have to do the same for you when YOU go! I had to trudge though a desert ALL day!" He frowned more before crossing his arms... but he chuckled at the paint.

Boy, it DID seem like they had a lot of fun.

Ventus blinked though as he looked up, his happiness coming back as his wings started to glow in another sense.
"I... I did it! I..." He looked down, frowning a bit. "I... finished my mission..."
Even Roxas looked over at what his brother said.

Ventus started to explain... and Roxas would of fallen asleep if it wasn't for all the information that Ventus was spewing out.
The thing that caught BOTH their attention was when Ventus told them about Terra touching his wings.
He got his ass chewed out because of that.
"You could of been killed!" was one of them.

When all the excitement was done, the boys quickly went to sleep for their very few hours.


In the early morning, Soran was off for his day and night turn. Roxas and Ventus already started fighting about how they were going to cover up their not-so-easy-to-cover-up brother's missing. Ven cam up with an idea that they could say he was out with Lilo all day.

Lilo was quiet and wasn't one to lie. Her father and mother made sure of it.
However, Ventus thought a bribe would win the girl over.
A date with Roxas.
That didn't fly well.
"WHY ME!?"
"Because she LIKES you!"
"I think I've done enough! This isn't fucking fair!"
Ventus frowned as he crossed his arms and looked away. "FINE you big baby, I'LL pretend to be you and go."
Roxas grinned and shook his head. "Yea, I heard how well YOU are at acting."
"HEY! SHUT UP!"

So there it was, Roxas told Lilo that he would go on a date with her next week if she stayed in the Wood all day and to tell her parents she was out with Soran.
Hopefully... nothing would go wrong...


In the training yard, a blonde stood in the personal training section behind the bushes. No one was training as of yet... it was the meal break, so he figured he could touch up on some techniques... at least... that's what he told Gin.

His feet were moving... but not in the way of a warrior... more... like a waltz.
He held his spear blade, dancing with it...
"So this is love, Mmmmmm
So this is loooove
So thiiiis is what makes liiiife diviiiiine~
I'm all aglow, Mmmmmm
And now I knooooow
The key to all heaven is miiiiiiine~"

He spun, a grand smile on his face.
"My heart has wings," His wings fluttered, the fire glowing brightly. "Mmmmmm
And I can flyyyyyy~~" He suddenly pushed off, betting his glowing wings so he could go into flight. He held the spear close and protectively as one hand reached out for the sky.
"I'll tooooouch ev'ry staaaaaaar in the skyyyyyyyy
So this..... is the miracle that IIIII've been dreaming oooooof"

He fluttered, gracefully coming down to earth once more. He pulled the spear from it's hold and held it like he was dancing with it once more.
"Mmmmmm
Mmmmmm"
He started to waltz again before pulling the spear down and leaned onto it, his bright and lively eyes looking at the spear head.
"So thiiiiiiis iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiis loooooooooove~~" He ended softly, his heart fluttering.

His eyes closed as he soaked into the feeling... but a sound of a twig snapping made his eyes shoot open.
He looked back, seeing a figure. He looked at his spear and pushed it behind him as if to hide it. His face blushed heavily as he swallowed. "Uh...h-hey... master Gin..."


The tropical wind blew in the early morning as the sun was almost out of the sunrise. Seagulls called overhead as the sound of the ocean filled the grove.
Bright eyes looked over the ocean, seeing all the colors start to fade as the day was starting.

He had gotten up bright and early...

A soft sigh rose as he leaned back on his hands. The kiss was still baffling him. What had come over him?
He wanted to apologize... but he didn't know what for...
His heart on the other hand... felt as light as a feather... as if... it fell in love again. He couldn't stop thinking about Sora all night, having a hard time sleeping.

He was ready to jump out of his skin waiting for the brunette. He had never felt so eager in his life.
He had stopped looking back at the door in the rock... knowing that it would hurt his neck if he kept looking every five minutes.
He would come...

[Reno]

Sora tilted his head, seeing the unhappy look on Ven's face when he mentioned his mission was done. Why was he so...?

But quickly they got wrapped up in the story that Ven was telling. Leading Terra out of the library, the trek across the desert, the desperation to reach the oasis, the swim in the water... and of course the touching of his wings.

"What?!" Sora gasped. "Ventus that's wasn't wise!"
"You could have been killed!" Roxas said, his sourness at his brother completely gone.

But after that, they all decided it was definitly time for bed, non of the boys really up for a full-blown fight. Roxas lead the way back to Sora's room where the window was always left open.
The boys said their good nights and the king-to-be was the first to leave, his wings drooping so much that the other two could almost imagine them dragging on the floor.

Soran however stopped Ventus. Out of all of them, they had thought Ven's mission was going to be the hardest to complete - but he had managed to finish first. Neither boy's were jealous of this fact, but it had installed some desperation in both of them to complete theirs as well.

If Ven could do it, so could they.

"Hey Ventus?"
"Hmmm?" The blonde looked back.
Soran smiled. "Don't be so sad about finishing you're mission. It doesn't mean... your friendship with him is finished." He chuckled, remembering his overration only minutes earlier. "I can't wait to meet him. If you trust him Ven, so do I."


Roxas was sitting in his dad's throne his wings brushing the tall headrest. The black and white tips were curved inward, framing him like a window framed glass. In his lap was a music notebook, have scrawled up with a new song. His chin was dropped down to his chest and from his even breathes anyone could tell he was sleeping.

Except his dad of course whose back was turned to him while he conducted the meeting. The Shee in the meeting would occasionally glance over Jet's shoulder or around his body to catch sight of the sleeping prince, and some of them would giggle or chuckle and try to muffle it. It was just such a cute picture, especally because King Jet continued to be obvlivious that his son was completely out of it.

Everyone knew Roxas was at that age - the 'you have to attend every meeting with the King' stage. His distaste and boredom at the meetings were obvious to anyone looking. But this time he was just completely tuckered out.


Out on the training yard, an elder man with bright silver wings was walking along the worn path - when he heard the most curious of sounds. Singing.

He paused, tilting his head before following the sound. He caught sight of red wings and a moving form - along with the singing that wasn't completey in key but held a lot of feeling within. He chuckled, recognizing the boy easily and he continued forward, unabashed when he stepped on a twig, drawing the other's attention.

"So that's where you must of been all yesterday." Gin teased, hearing the embaressed greeting. "I thought it was strange, watching Roxas play as you all day while Soran made up all these silly excuses for you, but now it makes sense. Someone caught your heart eh?"

He caught the wide eyed gaze and grinned. "Don't worry I didn't tell your parents anything. I'm surprised they didn't figure it out themseleves, especially since Jet used to skip his own lessons to see his 'little Runa-bear' all the time."


Sora yawned stretching his arms up towards the sky, his wings folding out as he walked along the beach. Moments later the twin pair receded from his back and to anyone who could of been watching, they would have guessed he was just any other regular boy.

Heh, things weren't always what they seemed.

Sora walked up to the familar door, opening it and revealing himself to the backside of the island. He walked out readily, and was caught by the aquamarine gaze that had just looked back for what must of been the 188th time that morning. Of course, Sora didn't know that.

He gave the other a wide grin, before sparing a suspicious glance down the bridge. He hesitated, before steeling his courage and sprinting across it, easily jumping over the hole that was thankfully still there, and making his way onto the second beach where Riku was waiting.

Then, in a burst of crazed impulsion, he TACKLED Riku into the sand, giving him a great big hug, and a great big smile and asked, "Miss me?!"

[Rikugurl]

The king continued to talk to the brown wings about expansion. It was a conversation about child birth rates and wondered if he could release the one-child-per-couple ruling that his grandfather had to press.

After awhile... when everyone's faces were distorted, the king frowned and blinked, stopping his questioning. He tilted his head and frowned a bit. "What?"
A woman grinned as she pointed behind the king and Jet looked back, seeing his son.... sleeping on the thrown.
He smiled softly but shook his head, turning back to the others. "I will let you break for now... please come back in a hour."
The Shee bowed as they walked off, whispering to one another as Jet turned.

He walked over to is throne and reached out, taking Roxas's shoulder and started to shake him softly. "Roxas...? Prince Roxas, wake up."


Ventus's face only grew more red as Gin walked over, but his blush turned into shock. He should of know... his master was very big on detail. He, out of all the Shee, could pick out Ventus and Roxas even if they wore the same clothes and stood side by side.

He rubbed the back of his neck, looking down slightly before looking up. Well... it wasn't a lie. "Y-yea..." He puffed his chest out a little. "Thanks for not telling... but... please don't tell anyone about the singing either please!" He begged before glancing down, a shine in his eye. He blocked it so it wouldn't hurt and blinked, seeing that it was the sun glaring off Gin's wedding band.

His expression faded, just looking at the band for a moment before looking up at the silver-wing he had learned to love like a father. "Gin... when you first met Lady Firi... did you know she was the one?"


Riku sighed as he sat up. It was feeling like it was taking forever... He looked back once more... but this time his eyes widened as he saw Sora at the door. Finally!
He got up quickly as Sora started to walk over the bridge, a soft smile on his face. He watched the brunette carefully as he hopped over the bridge and made it to his side.

He put his hands in his pockets... but not for long as he suddenly saw Sora rush to him. He pulled his hands out and flailed slightly before he was tackled down.
He fell back into the sand, the sound heavy but nothing painful. He blinked, shaking his head from the small daze as he looked up at the excited blue eyes.

He blinked again, before a large smile ran over him. "Y-yea... I did." A tone of love behind the words.

[Reno]

Roxas stirred as he was shaken his eyes slitting open. "Huh?" When he saw his dad, he jerked up straight, his music notebook clattered to the floor loudly. "Uh the answer is Hollow Bastion!" His father's face didn't change. "Uhhh... t-twenty-five?"

His dad's face seemed amused and Roxas finally took a look at his surrondings, recognizing the throne room and not the study. He blushed, absolutely mortified. "Um, I'm guessing we weren't having a pop quiz... were we?"


Gin laughed softly, easily agreeing. "My lips are sealed." He tilted his head however at the next question and his eyes darted down to his hand as well.

"No, I didn't know." He answered truthfully. He glancedf up, catching the sight of Ven's disappointment, "You've got to remember Ven I was just a kid when I first met her. To me, girls were still 'yucky' and I'd rather of hung out with Jet all day then think about marriage and sappy stuff like that." He chuckled.

"But... I did know she was different. Different from everyone I had ever met. I was always so... awkward when I was around her even as I grew up. I stuttered a lot and tripped over nothing and did all these silly, stupid things. It took quite a few years though for me to figure out what all that meant exactly though. The minute I did though I didn't hesitate to tell her and I'm glad I didn't, or else I wouldn't be as happy as I am now." Gin smiled before shaking his head.

"Loves kind of funny that way Ven, and it's different for everyone. For some people, they know the second they lay eyes on the person, for others it takes days, weeks even years to figure it out. And some... never understand it."


Sora grinned dopely as he got his answer, resting his chin on Riku's chest. "Really? That's great." He said, his breath having a hint of mint from his tootpaste it in. He stayed like that for a few moments more, just enjoying looking up at the other until he could sense the other was getting uneasy.

He rolled off of him, getting to his feet and helping Riku up as well. "I'm glad because you've got me allllll day." He glanced backwards, seeing the rolling waves and the tantilizingly pulls of the tide just calling to claim him. "You'll just have to protect me from her." He nodded with a fearless grin towards the ocean.

[Rikugurl]

OOC: MY LOVE! I am still very sick... but I want to write you something. TAT
And here is something for Kadaj.

Jet blinked when his son woke and smiled softly. He pulled away and crossed his arms, looking down at the heir that was sitting in his future throne. "Roxas..." He trailed off and shook his head. "You know... when I was your age, I thought these meeting were pretty boring myself... but you know... I still payed attention." He got an embarrassed look and shook his head again. "You know... one meeting I stood with my father... your mother walked in... maybe you might run into the same thing."

He was a bit shocked that Roxas didn't have a sweetheart yet... or not even a girl that he glanced at. He never went into the kingdom or anything like that.
The king rubbed his chin before smiling. "Maybe we need to get out of the palace more." He nodded and smiled before frowning slightly. "And find a way to wake you up."


Ventus frowned as he looked down. "And some... never understand it." Maybe.... maybe HE didn't understand it. He shoot his head a but before looking up at Gin. Of course when he first found Terra... or... well... heard Terra almost fall... he was fixated on him.
Terra wasn't like any other Atterian...
He knew he wasn't like him because he didn't act like one... and...never took Ventus up on that fight.

But... it was... that oasis... that brought out a beauty that he had never seen before.
One... that he never wanted to leave again...
He wanted so badly to bring him back to Norn... to show people that Atterians DID have a heart... it was just... their way of being raised that made them hid it.

But what about the balance?
Just because he found ONE doesn't change a thing...

He sighed more and shook his head before looking up at Gin again. "Thanks Gin..."


Riku blinked as the other just... laid on top of him. He swallowed a bit, his cheeks flushing only slightly as he looked around uneasy.
That was when Sora stood, and he did as well.

He dusted his pants off and sighed, looking out at the ocean. The breeze flew through his hair, making him close his eyes, smile and take a big smell of the ocean. He looked down at Sora and smiled. "She's really not so bad... but she does have a few tricks up her sleeve. Come on."

He motioned over and walked towards the shore. He pulled off his shoes and socks before pointing out. "What you need to always watch out for are currents called Subsurface currents." He looked down at Sora again before explaining. "When a wave comes in and crashes, the Subsurface currents pulled deep to go back towards the ocean. This is how some people drown because their feet and legs get sucked in and they get pulled down and out into the ocean."

He got a nervous look and smiled. "We won't swim in those kinds of waters though. At least no yet." He looked back at the wooden structure with a door and grinned. "We're going to learn how to swim in the fresh water pool before we go into the ocean."
He reached down and took Sora's hand before turning and walking towards the door. "It's this way."

When they walked through the door, Riku walked up some platforms to where the waterfall was. There was a pool at the bottom, not all too deep and a smaller size.
"When you swim in the ocean, you have to be ready to hold your breath... so we'll start here where it's easy to surface."

[Reno]

OOC: *nuzzles* you should take it easy my darling! I just got back from school
Kadaj: Mmmm, yum~ I'm tapping that

Roxas sighed hearing the lecture tone once again and looked away from his dad and down at the floor, his bangs hiding his eyes. He frowned a bit, rolling them when dad mentioned mom.

If only he knew!

Roxas suddenly realized something that made his ehart ache. He and Axel... could never be could they? At least, not on Norn. Though homosexual relationships were 'okay' in another Shee's eyes, it was only so with other species. With themseleves however going with the same gender was blasphemy. It went against the balance.

And if he was to be king... then he'd REALLY have no luck.

Roxas looked up when his dad mentioned getting out of the palace and he smiled a little. "...Coffee?" He suggested.


Gin looked at the other, tilting his head a little. He chuckled. "You're welcome kiddo. One last piece of advice, nothing speaks the better truth than your heart. Listen to it, instead of you brain."

He turned and walked back towards the tree line, only to pick up a spear and spin it on his fingers, turning to face Ven. "Love is like a battle. When your fighting an opponent you don't hesitate to exploit their weak points - to take the shot when the other lowers his defenses. So when you find love you shouldn't let it get away either. You strike and strike and strike until you've won, because if you give in first... all that's left for you is death."

Gin stalked forward, stopping a respectable distance away. sparring distance. "Not to be over-dramatic or anything. Just saying, if you think you found the one Ven, don't let her get away - or you'll regret it. Trust me."


Sora watched Riku quietly, blushing a little at the peaceful look that seemed to pass over his face. He smiled as well glancing out at the ocean, only to pale as he saw a big wave drop down onto the water. Maybe this was a bad idea.

He glanced at Riku who was taking off his socks and shoes and quickly did the same. His figners curled nervously around his crown necklace as the other explained about the ocean. "Way to be a confidence booster." He joked softly.

He tilted his head at the others next statement and nodded as he follwoed his to the 'freshwater pool', but was highly aware of the fact that Riku was HOLDING HIS HAND!

He gained a goofy grin, fingers squeezing securely with the others. He liked this.

He paused at the edge of the little pool he remembered seeing the first time he had wandered onto this island, glancing at the little waterfall that was casting rainbows in it's depths. "Alright." He said, reluctantly letting go of Riku's hand, and without a moment's pause, jumped into the pool. He was rather proud of the fact that his feet could touch the ground.


Learning how to swim was, honestly, quite an interesting experience.

"Hold your breath for as long as you can." Riku said.
"Okay." Sora grinned teasingly and raised his hands in front of his face, breathing out and trying to catch his breath. "Two seconds! Three! I'm winning!"
"Sora!" Riku complained. "Get under the water."
"I don't think the game would work that well down there." Sora grinned innocently at the agitated look he receieved. "Okay, Okay."

"Now if you ever DO get caught drowning again, you shouldn't panic like you had yesterday."
"Oh then what should I do Riku? Have a tea party with the fishes?" Sora muttered.
"No! Listen, I'm gonna teach you how to float. It'll lessen the exertion you'll need to use until someone can get to you and help you out."
"Float?"
"Yeah here," Riku dragged the brunette closer, "Lay on your back."
"Uh Riku I don't-" Sora cut himself off, blushing as he felt the hand against his back, guiding him into a lay position. He blinked, looking around then just stayed there, Riku's hand still supporting him and sending tingles down his body.
"And relax."
Then the hand was gone.
"GAH!" Sora cried flailing as he sunk.

"Riku this is really odd." Sora mumbled, his elbows on the edge of the pool side. His body was floating some on the water and he was kicing his legs, trying hard not to splash. Beside him, Riku was in a similar position.
"No, it's a really good exercise actually. It teaches you how to-"
"No not this, THIS." Sora nundged Riku's foot with his own.
Riku gave their feet an absentminded glance, noticing the color difference. "What about them?"
"Well, you've lived on a tropical island all your life yet you're as pale as a sheet, while I'VE lived on a forest-world all my life and i'm as tan as... uhh well something that gets tanned."
"What's your point?"
"It's just weird!"
"Sora, what does this have to do with swimming?"
"Uhhh..."

"So this is a doggy paddle."
"A... doggy... paddle? Are you making fun of me Riku?"
"No it's really called that!"
"Suuuure."

"And this is a breast stroke."
"............."
"... What?"
".... Hehehehehehehehehe!"
"Sora!" Smack!
"Hey!" Splash!
"Sora!"
"You desereved it!"

"Now stand here and try not to fall."
"Here?" Sora asked as he stepped at the edge of the beach,. the tide came in, splashing agaisnt his ankles, and then pulled, some of the sand under his feet slipping away. Not prepared for it, Sora let out a garbled yell and fell over, wet sand flying everywhere.
He laid there, pouting and glared down his body at the two large and blumsy things attached to his legs. "Stupid feet." He grumbled.
Riku only chuckled and helped him up. "Try again."

But finally after all the trials and tribulations and a lunch break, they had finally come to that point. It was time to try swimming in the ocean. Not too far out of course, and Riku was going to be right there with him, but Sora couldn't help bouncing on the balls of his feet despite all the aches and pains swimming caused.

It was getting close to evening time, the sun low in the sky. The water was cold and fast, and their was a slight breeze in the air, but Sora was determined.

"Come on Riku, come on! Let's do this!" He grabbed onto Riku's arm and dragged him towards the water confidently, no longer unsure of his steps as the tide hit his legs. He was an amazingly fast learner, and though he wasn't a pro swimmer or anything he already felt like he was decent. The ocean was the obstace he wanted to face right now.

The only thing that bothered him was, apart from leading him to the pool, a shy brush of limbs every now and then or a movement to correct an angle that was off, Riku hadn't touched him. Meaning he hadn't KISSED him. They hadn't even discussed it. And they certainly hadn't done it again - though during lunch Sora had sure tried when he ' accidently' slipped into Riku's lap, or during their practices when he got just a little too close to the other. But either Riku didn't want to or Sora was the most uncharming troll to ever have lived because it hadn't happened.


Wide jaws with rows and rows of sharp teeth gaped open as the form emitted a loud yawn, the sound slightly screechy at the end. A large head was rested once more atop crossed paws. Yellow eyes looked out across the clear water, a tail swishing at the edges. Around the large creature were leafs and pits of fruit eatten, and very little bones from the very little fish in the water.

Terra licked his chops idly, wondering where Ven was. He was bored. He had no books to read, he had already explroed all of the oasis and he had already eatten -TWICE in the past hour. Paradise was rather lonely...

Though he had to say, he'd never felt better. He felt stronger just by drinking the undirtied water and eatting the fresh food around him. So it had it's pluses. He just... didn't want to live here alone.

Where is he...? Maybe... he wasn't coming back? No, Ven wouldn't lead him him, wouldn't have saved his life (twice now) had he of wanted to abandon him. It would hold no logic... but neither did Ven wanted to be his friend.

Unless Ven was crazy. Or you're a schizo. He berated himself. It has been nearly ten years since he had a real companion, someone who heled break him from his ritualistic, day by day routines and showed him that life and goodness still existed on the outside of his library walls.

Or he could have gotten so desperate for a need of someone to talk to, he made Ven up, a Shee because it would be the ultimate rebellion against his dad, in hopes of staying sane. Of course, he was a murderer out for revenge, there was nothing sane about him...

Terra sighed shutting his eyes. What do you see in me Ven? His mother had said... the only way he would survive this life was by either running away or closing off his heart. He... had done the latter. Or he... thought he had, until the blonde came around. This is too confusing.


Roxas wings fluttered and he glanced at Ven. "Well, see you in the morning." He told the other before lifting his vial. he drank most of it, but spared three drops, one for a bag full of something white, and another for two cups full of hot chocolate. The liquid hissed as it cooled but the minute he got on Tarsa it would heat right back up, but at least the cup wouldn't burn into nothingness.

He put the bag in his pocket picked up the cups and with a final good-bye to Ventus, he was gone.

Though the day had been eventful it had also been lucky. Lilo kept her promise and didn't utter a word about her lie, and both mom and dad had been so busy they had both missed dinner so Ven and Roxas were left to eat on their own (after Roxas made sure his father excused him from the meeting with the green wings and their new medical practices'). They didn't know where their mother was, all they knew was she had left early in the afternoo for a trip on another world with some of the other traveler Shee to bind a treaty down.

It was taking longer then expected. But without their parents they only had to pass on the word that Sora was in bed and asleep and he had had a great time with Lilo. Roxas even made sure to hint and use 'air quotes' as he spoke with his dad, as if gesturing about a 'thing' between Lilo and Sora. (He knew it was mean and bad to lie, but after today's conversation in the coffee shop that was like the advanced version of the birds and the bees... well let's just say he knew Sora could handle it, in love with Riku or not).

Roxas stepped onto the hot worlds and sighed happily, spreading his wings. A smile grew over his face and he felt more at home here then anywhere else. Maybe he should have been more worried about the sudden changes he was going through - the rebellious thoughts, the disinterest in Latium's lessons and his father's words, the lying, the creul actions, the addiction to this world and it's unbalance, the withdrawl symptoms he went through when he was back on Norn. He wouldn't be surprised if one day he looked back and say his wings had gone completely black.

But he didn't care. He was too far gone to care - and no one, not even himself, could see it. The Trinity were all to caught up in their lives - too caught up trying to finish their missions and get to know their chosen friends that they had forgotten... to take care of themseleves along the way.

Roxas flew up towards the familar roost, being careful to stay even so he didn;t spill the drinks. He hovered at the window and looked in - smiling as he caught sight of the red-head. "You are becoming so much easier to find lately." He teased. It wasn't that long ago that he had been spending hours just to find Axel, know he always could. "I brought it." He said, holding up the cups, "but if you want it, you have to follow me."

He flapped his wings, flying backwards. Axel gave him an uncertain gaze - and he knew it was because of the Danza. Axel hadn't wanted to leave since then. "Come on, we'll be all alone I promise." Roxas winked before turning and flying off. He glanced back only once, smiling when he saw Axel following after.

The blonde landed away from the 'town' if you could call it that, walking down an old path and Axel followed him as the prince lead him into the burnt forest that was at the southeast corner of the world. Twigs crumpled under their feet and the area darkened as the rays of the sun were further obscured, though the ash that constantly was lighter due to the emtpy branches of trees stretching above their heads.

Roxas finally found a clearing with nothing but dirt and a broken stump. The area was rather undisturbed so Roxas felt confident that they'd be left alone. He set the glasses down on the stump and slapped Axel's hand when he reached for one, "Not yet! Find some sticks we can burn okay?" He grinned, before turning and quickly gathering up some rocks and making a ring. Not long after, Axel returned with the 'fire' wood. Roxas took it and threw it in the circle except for two that he set aside.

After asking Axel to light it, the Shee drew in his wings, smiling as the flames dancing shadows across their faces. He sat down, inviting the imp to join him and finally gave him the drink. "Here;s the surprise - so don't drink yet." The fire pyro whined in return. "I know, I know, but you'll love this."

He took out the bag he had previously stored away and shook it in Axel's face, grinning. It was full of big fluffy white things that looks like cynlidrical cottonballs. There were two sizes - small and large.

Roxas opened the bag and picked out the small ones, dropping them in his and in Axel's hot chocolate. "They're called marshmellows. They're really sweet and a little sticky, but they taste really good with hot chocolate. Or roasted." He grinned before lifting a stick and puncturing a big marshmellow on his stick, holding it over their little campfire. "We learned this from the humans. They would do this thing called 'camping' where they got together with friends or family and go out to the middle of nowhere and well... sleep outdoors and 'live off the land' sort of thing. And they'd do stuff like roast marshmellows and tell ghost stories and sing."

He glanced at Axel and smiled. "I just thought you'd like it cause well... we got to light a fire." He wasn't going to mention it was also... very romantic if you did this with someone you liked.

[Rikugurl]

OOC: Ah, I'm feeling a bit better... at least I've stopped shaking. I should be 100% tomorrow... so I'll see you tomorrow. I'll be on 3 your time but I know you have school so don't worry. ♥ ♥ ♥

Jet blinked as his son asked fro coffee, but he smiled and nodded. "Sure, why not?"
He took his staff and pulled on his outing cloak as he and Roxas headed off towards the kingdom. The king stopped and informed a guard of their outing so he could tell anyone who asked and to bid the others an apology when they came back for their meeting... for it was canceled.

Sure Jet didn't know about his three children's secret lives... but that didn't mean that he couldn't try to give them the REAL lives that they should be paying attention to. He knew how hard it was being a prince... and he would go the distance to make sure all three were happy... by a limit. He couldn't allow them to be like his mother... but he did make as much time for them as he could.

Some Shee were a bit skeptical as usual... but they knew it must of been a handful being royalty AND raising the Trinity on their own.
They walked into the kingdom and walked along the crowd, getting their respectful bows here and there. King Jet and Queen Runa had already done wonders for Norn... they weren't going to bother them how they take care of their children for they knew they would do a wonderful job.

They went to the local coffee shop and took a seat by one of the windows. As they drank, Jet held most of the conversation. He talked about some memorized he had about when Roxas and his brothers were younger... and even ones when they were babies. He gave some pointers, but always smiled as he said some critical ones. However... Roxas still hardly smiled.... He still didn't seem happy...


Ventus blinked as Gin continued. Love is like a battle? He swallowed as Gin continued to explain, feeling a bit uncomfortable. Isn't that like... forcing someone else to love you? He knew what Gin was trying to get out... it was hard for a silverwing to teach someone about love he guessed... since they were experts at war and other tactic things.

He could only give Gin a soft smiled and nodded. "Alright... I won't give up." He looked down slightly, at his spear-sword and sighed. Her... yea, right. He shook his head though and grinned, getting into stance. "How bout a round!?"

Gin happily agreed and they were off. Ventus spun his spear skillfully as they started a fighters 'dance' around the small training field. His blue eyes stared down the other's dull ones, seeing who would make the first strike.
It would be him.
His fire wings brightened with power before he shot out, turning and swinging his spear behind him, missing Gin as he dodged. The powerful rod caught the other's weapon as it was slashed and pushed it off.

They 'danced' once again, grins on their face before Gin gave out a taunt. Ventus came again, this time swinging his spear over his head, his torso and stomach muscles stretching perfectly as he did some fancy footwork. He twisted in the air and his spear head came down, smashing into the ground below hard. Only a second later, the earth the head was in exploded in a powerful blast, clumps of dirt and grass flying into the air.

Ven looked back, his wings flapping brilliantly as his dark eyes looked back at the satisfied teacher.


Axel sighed as he looked out the window to see nothing but the red sky and the volcanoes making the black clouds. He looked down, seeing well horned, winged and tailed imps walking about, evil laughs come up every now and then when an imp went rushing down the street, another chasing it with swears covering up the laugh.

His tail wagged slightly as he slouched over the sill. It seemed like the hours would never end until Prince Roxas came. He... still didn't know why the prince came to visit everyday... He was sure it had to do something with this thing that most races understood. Love. He... still wasn't all to keen about it. Imps didn't understand love... they never had to. It wasn't that they COULDN'T love... or that they COULDN'T be loved like said about the Atterians... but... there was no need for love on Tarsa. Danzas did all the work in finding a cohort... and made mini... packs?

He shook his head. He would have to learn more... but with his little black heart pounding in his chest... he was starting to catch on. This waiting and loneliness probably had to do something with it.


Riku laughed as he was pulled out to the ocean around the back of the island. It was almost the end of the sunset as they walked down to the shoreline. He looked out, frowning a bit as his silver hair reflected the evening colors. It was dangerous to swim at night... the tides were much more powerful when the moon was out and the sun retired. He looked down at the brunette and smiled softly. "You sure you don't want to wait till morning?"
He got a determined look and laughed softly. "Alright, alright."

The day had been... the best day that Riku could remember. He couldn't remember how long it had been since he laughed like that... or was so childish in nature... and... he never felt awkward. He totally let loose and enjoyed the brunette's company so much.
He had... forgotten about Kairi... and how mad she was the night before...
He should of visited to say he was sorry and to make sure she was alright... but the thought never crossed his mind once.

He slowly walked out into the waters until it got to his hips and smiled. It had been awhile since he went swimming at night like this. He looked out at the beaker that wasn't all too far away... but far enough and looked back at Sora. "Race you!" He called before suddenly diving into the ocean water, flawless like any island boy.


Ven nodded, waving a bit as his identical twin disappeared into the portal. He sighed, looking down at his spear and closed his eyes. The spear started to glow and burst with light, completely disappearing. Gin had taught him how to absorb weapons so he could summon it instead of putting it on a shelf. This was an important trick so if he was ever to cross danger, he could defend himself easily.

He knew with Terra... he wouldn't have to worry.

He looked down, seeing the bottle water all set to go, bring five this time...
He would have to bring Terra home... but unlike last time, he didn't have the time he needed to trudge through. He would fly Terra most of the way until it became too dangerous to keep his normal form.

He slowly walked to the portal... and then through.
His eyes widened as they saw a close rainbow over the waterfall. He appeared behind it...
He looked out, seeing Terra sitting there, looking rather bored... but much more healthier. His fur seemed to shine under the sun and his eyes a brighter color. He smiled softly, before a blush came over him.

Slowly he pulled his cloak, revealing his power over Atterian and letting Terra know he was here... but where?
He slowly pulled his shirt over his head and tossed it onto his cloak. He pulled the bottles off his belt and gently placed it down on the clothes before his pants were pulled down... and then his underwear. His wings burst from his back and fluttered slightly as he held himself.

"If you think you found the one Ventus, don't let her get away - or you'll regret it."

He nodded as he slowly walked towards the rushing waters. He knew that both Atterians had to agree to... a... relation... so... this was his red flag.
He had found the one... and even if he was only 16... he knew... he just knew Terra was the one...
He continued to walk towards the water and held his hand out, making sure the water wasn't falling too hard for his wings to handle. It was perfect.

He closed is eyes and suddenly turned, backing into the water and let it pour down on him. He shook his head, his blonde hair easily becoming weighed down by water as he drenched himself. His red wings flapped, shinning in the sun and catching Terra's eyes as Ven faced away from him, his hands running down his wet body.


Axel laid on his stomach as he poked some holes into some thin bones of an unfortunate animal. His eyes narrowed as he stuck out his tongue, his tail wagging as he pushed a hair through it. His ears perked as his eyes widened though at the sound of wings fluttering.
He dropped what he was doing and looked back to see the prince at his window. "Roxas!" He called as he stood, his leather pants shifting as he dusted some ash off them.

He grinned at the other's words and shrugged. It was of his best interest to lay low for awhile before heading out into public again... and Roxas knew it. He frowned though as the prince flapped away, taunting him to follow. He looked down, not feeling all to safe... but after the prince boosted him, he sighed and nodded.

He crawled onto the sill and watched the black and white winged Shee fly off before pushing himself out. His small bat-like wings flapped, catching his balance and quickly shot him off after the blonde. They flew over the town, Axel looking much more awkward than the blonde... for his limps were lanky and only keeping him up were little wings that were far from portion to his body.

He blinked as the boy landed and so did he. He looked around, seeing that Roxas was headed to a burnt forest. Axel shrugged, walking after the prince and looked back to make sure no one was watching.
They walked deep enough so that the ash was heavy, making the ground look as if there were a few inches of snow about. His eyes brightened as he saw the cup being placed down and reached for one... only to have it get slapped away. He pouted and rubbed the back of his hand. "HEY!"

He pouted more as he was ordered to find sticks. Well... that wasn't hard. He only ventured out a bit, his black nails reaching through the ash and finding some nice sticks and twigs. When he returned, he placed them in the circle of rocks that Roxas had made. He placed his hand over in the position as if he were about to flip a coin... however, he just ended up igniting his thumb. He lowered it and set the brush on fire before fanning it out.

They sat around the fire, the smell of what Roxas had brought him making the imp lick his lips. He was about to take the nearest cup again when... He was called out on it. He pouted more. "But Roxas~~~" He crossed his arms and slouched over as Roxas started to mingle with a bag full of... puffy things. The redhead tilted his head as he watched, blinking as he took a larger stick.

His watched the white things get dropped into the hot liquid... than watched Roxas put a bigger one on the end of his stick. He grinned as he reached over, taking a big marshmallow and was ready to put his on his stick when... it melted in his hand. "H-HEY!" He pouted as he took another... but that melted completely before he could put it on his stick too. A large pout ran over his face as he started to lick his hand as he tried once more with his other hand... but it still melted all over before he could get it on his stick.

[Reno]

OOC No worries darling I'll be on by then!

Sora stepped into the water with Riku shivering at the pleasant cold the water was encasing him in. It was cool, but surprisingly wasn't as freezing as the accidental dip he had taken yesterday. He smiled, his toes curling in the sand that was slipping past his feet each time the tide pulled away.

Yeah today had been perfect. It had been-

"Race you!"

Sora's eyes snapped open, only to seeing riku's back as he jumped flawlessly into the water and took off. "H-Hey!!" He cried, hurrying after. "Cheater!" He dived into the water as well - albeit much clumsier then Riku and his... his perfection.

Sora gasped as he took off after the other, swinging his arms and legs in the fashion Riku had shown him, struggling to get used to the ocean's waves. Riku of coruse had no problems at all. How was this fair exactly?


Terra's eyes snapped open as he felt the familar power source ghosting over his body, making his fur stand on end and his tail twitch excitedly. "Ven!"

No answer. He sat there for a moment, sniffing at the air, but could not find Ven. But something red caught his eye and he turned his head. The scent smacked into him then, one of desire and arousal.

Terra sat up and stared at the Shee's backside greedily, limbs moving without his consent. He stood, walking along the lake side. His legs braced themseleves and then he jumped powerfully. In mid-jump he changed and his feet landed on the edge of the waterfall, the rushing of the water making his hair droop instantly.

"Are you teasing me?" He asked softly, hands brushing the other's waist as he pressed close. Though he wasn't completely naked he was still only wearing his pants, and that fact was rather obvious to both of them now. He chuckled licking the shell of the other's ear.


Roxas watched the other and laughed as he ineffectively tried to spear a marshmellow. "Silly." He pulled his own marshmellow from the fire, nicely browned and held his stick up to the other's mouth, grinning. "Here, eat it."

He smiled fondly when the other did. He took two more marshmellows, sticking one of his stick and the other on Axel's before holding his own back over the fire.

"See?" Roxas murmured softly. "Good things come to those who wait." He chuckled.

Disturbingly, in the course of barely ten mintues Axel's very presence was able to do what his father hadn't been able to over the course of a whole day. He got him to smile; real, true smiles.

[Rikugurl]

The silverette continued to swim with much grace as he eyed the floating thing that looked like a lighthouse. Of course, this was a warning for anyone who was swimming not to pass it since it was dangerous to go any further.

He easily reached it, wrapping his arm around it and looked back though his wet hair. He laughed, seeing the other flail about. "HAHA! Come on Sora! You're doing fine! Just remember what I taught you!" He laughed more as Sora got closer and the beaker moved around as Sora grasped it. He smiled, looking out at the other panting a bit. "Wow, you really are a fast learner." He smiled more as the other's blue eyes looked right up at him. His breath caught as he saw them shine in the moonlight... and... felt something brewing deep in his heart.

But... it might of been fear too.
A familiar motion started to sweep under his feet and the water bobbed, making him look out into the ocean... and his eyes widened in horror.
A wave was starting up... and it was no little one. The full moon was out... and the waves would be big like this. DAMNIT! How could he be so stupid!?
But Sora.... Sora wanted too....
"GET BACK TO SHORE! HURRY!" He cried as he pushed off and swam back towards the beach.


Ven's wings continued to flutter his fire wings as the water sprayed over him. He smiled softly, enjoying the fresh water over his body... even if he still couldn't believe he was doing this.
His eyes widened as he felt the fingers on his waist. Before he could pull away slyly, a lick was on his ear. He felt a tingle go down his body as he pulled away, turning to face him as he walked backwards into the waterfall more. Placing his a hand over his privates and one around his neck, he gave the other a devious grin.

He suddenly dropped backwards into the pool and sunk to bottom. Some bubbles came up before the blonde surfaced, gasping and shaking his head as he looked up at the Atterian. His eyes shimmered again as he laughed and started to do a backstroke. "Let's play catch again..."


The imp pouted more as he continued to lick both his hands now, one after the other in a silly scene. He blinked though as he saw the stick pointed at him with a roasted marshmallow. He grinned and leaned in, taking a small bit and then chewing. He tasted it and ran it all over his mouth to absorb it all. A huge grin ran over his face as he licked his lips. "Shit--- I MEAN! Jeez Roxas... you find the yummiest things!"

He blinked as Roxas started to set up one for him and he took it with his messy hand before putting the marshmallow over the fire. "Thanks..." His wings flapped softly as his tail wagged. He looked up as Roxas continued to talk and smiled. "You can say that again..." He said softly before watching the things roast. He reached over with his other hand and grabbed the cup, drinking down the warm liquid.
OH! IT....IT WAS ALMOST AS GOOD A COFFEE.

He held it as he looked over the fire at the prince. "You know... I had an idea on what to do for your extra day here."

[Reno]

Sora spluttered a bit in indignition as he heard Riku's calls. Cocky bastard. His eyes narrowed in determination as he swam through the rough waters, and by the time his figners curled around the bouy his arms were complaining and he was completely out of breath. Yet his pride had definitely gone up a few points. He had made it!

He looked up at Riku though and smiled proudly, face aglow as their eyes met. His cheeks darkened a little as he looked at the other. Riku seemed completely angelic in the moonlight, pale skin glistening and a ring of light caught in the silver hair that mimiced a halo.

Sora was about to say something when he noticed Riku's look quickly turning to terror. "Riku...?"

Suddenly the silverette was yelling, and swimming away. The brunette blinked, utterly confused before he turned his head. His eyes went wide, turning a bright orange. "Oh shi-" He curled his feet up against the side of the bouy, kicking off and twisting in the water, moving his limbs rapidly.

But he wasn't fast enough. Riku was getting farther and farther away, reaching shore... and he was still so far away.

The wave crashed down. "RIKUUUU!" His scream was lost under the roar of the water.

The pressure shoved Sora viciously downwards, the pull stronger then he had expected. Stay calm, Stay calm! His body twisted in the water as it was shoved down and the desperate Shee curled up his body and when he stopped being pushed he spread his arms out and frantically kicked towards the surface.

He reached it and he drunk in a gasp of air - just as another wave crashed over him. He felt like he had been punched in the gut as he was thrown under once more and he wasn't even given a chance to try to reach the surface when a third wave from above hit down.

He was shoved further down and his head smacked into something hard. White light exploded in his eyes and then his body went limp.


Terra watched Ven's every movement as he backed away, blue eyes diluted with interest. He perched himself on the edge of the fall, looking down at Ven's body.

He smirked. "Catch it is." He murmured, before backing away his form blurry under the rush of the waterfall so Ven could barely see him.

He hummed, slipping off his pants to even the score a bit more - but hey the boxers were staying on. He wanted to keep Ven guessing.

He grinned widely suddenly and suddenly ran forward. He leaped through the waterfall easily flying over Ven and landed in the water. A splash rose up and ripples circled the pool, hitting the edges.

Terra twisted under the water and kicked his legs. He grinned and could almost imagine some evil tune of music going off as he swum around the blonde like a shark and came under him. His arms emerged from the water, locking around Ven's chest and bringing him down underneath.

His hand reached up, brushing along Ven's chin and turning his head to face him; their blue eyes met and he leant close, lips meeting in a passionate kiss.


Roxas just chuckled at Axel's attempt at 'proper' language. He didn't really mind of course, he cussed every now and then too. His parents would have a heart attack if they heard him though - he could already imagine the lecture now.

'A prince does not speak in such an unmannered wya. Instead of 'bitch' you say 'female dog' and instead of 'shit' say 'feces' or 'excrement'
Ugh. Parents.

"Mmm, what's that?" Roxas asked curiously as he took his marshmellow away from the fire, eatting it viciously. Mmmm, so good. He really needed to do this more often!

[Rikugurl]

Riku gasped as he continued to kick his legs hard... but even he had a hard time getting to shore. The first wave hit and PUSHED him violently towards the shore. He cried out and landed in the sand. He quickly shook his head and stumbled up before the second wave came. He rushed to dry land then looked back in horror as a third large wave came.

Aquamarine eyes widened as they darted over the black water. "S-sora...?" He walked back to the shore, squinting to see if he could spot the brunette. "Sora!" Still nothing. He looked out, gasping as he saw that the beaker was upside down. Those were... really heavy.
"SOOOOORAAAAA!" He cried in panic... but still nothing. "SHIT!" He gripped his silver hair, water sloshing everywhere. '

Tears started to run down his face as he continued to look around... but he knew what had happened... and he would only have a few more minutes before the moon made more waves. His eyes grew dark as he pulled off his shirt and pants, his boxers only to hug low on his waist. He couldn't let anything weigh him down. He shot out and dove into the water. He pushed himself deep, only using the moonlight shimmering above to aid his eyes underwater.

He pushed his legs with powerful beats as his arms pushed him down into the depths. His eyes tried to adjust to the darkness, trying to find his friend. When he was far enough, he could see the top of the beaker. He looked down and dove deeper until something caught his eye. A silver pendant floating up from a chain. And the chain was around a soft neck.

Riku's eyes widened more as he dove quicker, feeling his breath become limited. A strong arm reached out and wrapped around the other's arm. He yanked the body; it was extremely heavy now... from water and... from dead weight.
He wrapped his arm around the other before pushing his legs hard to surface. By the time they broke, Riku could only gasp quickly before waves fell over them, pushing them under again. Unlike Sora... Riku knew how to swim under these sort of situations.

He followed the current until it pulled back. He twisted in the water and pushed off, breaking free from the hold. The second wave pushed them to shore and before it could pull them back, Riku grabbed hold of a branch from one of the bushes. It pulled and uprooted... but held.
When the wave receded, the silverette pulled out of the water, his limbs and body aching from the struggle.

The brunette was carried close as he dragged him towards dry land. Riku collapsed after lying Sora down on his back. Panting could be heard as water fell from the silver hair. "Sora...?" He coughed, moving over the younger.
He stopped though as his breath caught. Something was wrong. Quickly, he leaned over and placed his ear over Sora's mouth. Nothing. He wasn't breathing.
"SHIT!" He leaned over Sora more as he reached down, his fingers finding a vein to see if there was a pulse.

Nothing.

He suddenly ripped Sora's shirt open, exposing a bare torso in which didn't hold a scar or cut. Perfect... but pale.
He moved over the other, pushing his wet hair out of the way after it splattered onto Sora's face. Riku pinched the boy's nose hard before opening the dull mouth. He pushed his own mouth over and sealed it so no breath was lost. He breathed in some air slowly. His eyes darted over his shoulder to see Sora's chest raising.

When he gave Sora two slow and long breaths, he pulled away and crossed his hands over the lowest tip of the breastbone and pushed down with his shoulders.
"1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15."
He counted as he pushed on Sora's chest... but nothing. "Shit..." He pinched Sora's nose and sealed their mouths once more before two more breaths were pushed through the airways.

He pulled away and pushed his hands down again.
"1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9----"


Ven smiled as he saw Terra disappear. He had a good idea that Terra was thinking of something. He continued to do a lazy backstroke when his eyes widened. He gasped as he stopped, just bopping in the water as the other FLEW over him!
He looked back, blocking himself from the large splash and laughed. He blinked though when the other didn't surface... but could only see a black figure circling around him like the animal that Latium taught them about. Something called a shark?

He yelped as he was suddenly taken, and pulled down under the water. His flailing arms made the water bubble and his wings fluttered, making the water shift.
However, even if it felt fun... his necklace started to glow. His eyes widened, no longer the beautiful blue but a bright yellow. Something was wrong. SORA!

Before he could push away or surface, his chin was taken and pulled over his shoulder to meet wet lips. The yellow eyes lidded as the kiss started and slowly closed. Their lips were sealed so that no water could interrupt their tongues as they danced. His fire wings floated and whisped in the water like ribbon as the blonde wrapped his arms around the Atterian's shoulders, rubbing them as the kiss continued. Slowly, his heart started to calm as the feeling slowly lifted.

Sora would be ok... but what had happened...?


Axel grinned, an impish look on his face. "Not teeeeeelllllllliiiiiiiinnnnnnggggg~~~" He licked his lips before pulling the stick to his mouth and eating the roasted marshmallow. He took another sip of his hot chocolate... well... he gulped down the rest before reaching over and placing the cup down.

Well.... almost placed it down. His fingers didn't seem to want to let go. He blinked and pouted, trying to shake the cup off. The sugar from the melted marshmallow melted to the cup... meaning that it was stuck on his hand. He whimpered as he continued to pull off the cup in a comical scene. He smiled softly as Roxas came over and tried to figure a way to free him.

He watched as the blonde though... but he suddenly looked away as a horrible bright light suddenly came from the boy. He frowned, one eye peering over his shoulder to see... Roxas's necklace shinning. "Wha... what's tha---" His own eyes widened as he saw the prince with bright yellow eyes. He knew what that meant. Something was terribly wrong... It was either worry, fear... or rage... when a Shee's eye color changed.