Of Fairytales

[Rikugurl]

"Ven... whats wrong?" Blue eyes widened, the tears seeming to pause. He looked down, seeing the charm shimmer. He choked a bit, shaking his head as he rubbed one eyes from the tears. "I... I miss you so much..." He whimpered. He wasn't sounding... very strong...

Slowly he turned the chair to the flat side, his eyes widening. He could see... water in the reflection... and some fish. The... water at the oasis. He could also see some blurred spots in which he could tell it was Terra's hand. A spark of happiness called forth his wings as he studied the charm. A sort of... two way mirror?
"Terra... turn your charm around..." He spoke softly to his own, only for the reflection to move and.... saw one of the most beautiful sights ever.

Terra, looking back at him.
His heart pounded as he suddenly started to chuckle.


The last mythology book closed and put back on the shelf. He sighed, slowly looking back at his notes... wondering if Sora would ever come back... so he could ask if he heard of any of these.
Maybe that was...wishful thinking...

He left, walking off down the road. It wasn't the road to his home... but Kairi's...
He needed to confirm that Sora was indeed real... again... and... he needed to sit down... and tell her something that she needed to know...


Axel smiled more, tightening the hug. "Don't faint again. Got that memorized? You scared me!" He smiled a bit more as he nuzzled the boy, blinking as he noticed more of the white burn marks that littered the place. He had cried... a lot more than he thought. He himself had never seen these marks anywhere before.

Was he the only imp that... could cry?
Was that what made him better? That sounded kind of crazy.

He blinked though, snapping out of it was he looked over at the bag. "What's all this stuff for?"

[Reno]

"I... I miss you so much..." Terra blinked at the strange statement. He'd never really... had anyone who missed him before. It felt... nice.

He blinked curiously when the other gave another strange order. "O...kay?" He easily flipped the charm around... and his eyes widened as he saw Ven looking back at him, eyes puffy and tears stains on his cheek. He wished he was there, Ven shouldn't be crying...
Everything behind him was a shadow of blackness.

He tilted his head, seeing the other laughing but only frowned in concern. "You're not hurt or anything are you?" He asked. "Where are you?"


Roxas laughed at the other's words, nodding. "Deal." He placed his hands over Axel's fingers curling around the other's. He could already feel it, what Xan meant. His balance tipping, attaching himself to this world...

He wondered if all black-wings and white-wings had no sense of balance and that was why they were at such extremes? The pure and the tainted was how they were always referred to...

But he didn't believe that. He believed that a white wing could make the same mistakes as a black wing, just like a black wing could be just as pure as a white wing.

And he believed... that even against all odds he would find his balance on this world - or die trying.

At the others question he looked up at the curious green eyes and smiled mischeviously. "Nah-uh., thats my se-cret. I'll tell you later." He chirped, before taking Axel's hands in his, holding them between them. "Now come on Axel, where's your list? I'm here allll day, so let's start doing something fun!"

[Rikugurl]

Ventus blinked, tilting his head as he sniffed his tears up. He wiped them away with a hand before sniffling a little bit. "I-I'm alright..." He looked around, wondering if he could see all the books behind him. "I'm in a study... in my...uh.... home?" He frowned a bit and sighed, shaking his head.

"I'm in the palace... and...." He sniffed a bit more. "I... I can't come and see you again.... my parents.... grounded me." He swallowed. How childish...
"You... think you can cross the desert back to your home... by yourself?"


The imp pouted. He hated secrets! AND HE KNEW ROXAS KNEW HE HATED THEM TOO!
He tilted his head though, his eyes looking sad as he looked away. "Well.... I kind of... didn't make a list... because....I didn't know if you were ok or not. I was more worried about... how you were doing."

He slowly let the boy go and stood, walking towards the window and looked out over the burning world hidden over the tops of the buildings. "I'm sorry that... I just left you there in Norn. I'm glad you're still ok, Roxas..."
He looked back and smiled slightly. "But a list shouldn't be too hard to come up with! Since you're here all day... I think I know something we can do..." His small smile turned into a grin as he walked back to the prince.

[Reno]

"Groun....ed?" Terra repeated his brows furrowed at the strange term. He knew he had heard of that term before...

Whatw as it the dictionary had said. A non-violent 'punishment' of some sort. He'd first read the word in an old psychology book for young and troubled children - lots of stuff in that book hadnl;t made sense to him. And that was why he liked it, had read it five times at least. He loved the struggle the challenge to understand and comprehend. He LOVED learning.

And for an Atterian that was... wellw eird.

At the Shee's question he smirked suddenly, all confidence and bravado. "That little ol pile of pebble?" He waved a hand towards the desert uninterestedly, as if he hadnlt nearly died trying to cross it not two days ago. "I can cross that easy. You just worry about your 'grounded'ness and try not to fly away."


Roxas blinked as the others look fell. "Axel...?" At the other's utterance his eyes widened a fraction. He had worried... about him? The Shee blushed a little but he chuckled, shaking his head. "Don't worry about it." He didn't mind being left. He knew if... if no balance hurt him, then pure balance would hurt Axel too.

Didn't they just have that conversation last night? Neither of them could spend too long a time in one another's world because it was suicide.

He looked at Axel though when the other came closer and a strange smile on his face. It looked both mischevious... and chllenging. "Oh is that so?" Roxas asked, grinning confidently. "Alright then, what's that?" He could take anything Axel's got up his sleeve.

[Rikugurl]

Ventus blinked, but smiled, nodding a bit before wiping away more tears. "I'll be watching over you... even if I'm grounded."
At least.... there was a way for them to still see each other... even if they were worlds away.


Axel only smirked more, looking over to a burnt weaved basket that was at the side of his roost. "I'm sure you're going to love it."



Fire wings fluttered a bit as young legs dangled from his sitting spot. It was at the old practice tree. No singers today. Blue eyes looked out over the swamp, seeing all the butterflies and dragonflies and other creatures unique to Norn fly around in the clear sky.

He sighed softly, looking down to see the forest floor, seeing a guard standing around the base as he looked around.
It had been like this... if one of the Trinity left the palace, a guard would have to go with them. Sure they stayed away a good distance... but... it was still REALLY annoying.

He looked back out at the view and sighed. Roxas had disappeared. Both he and Soran knew exactly where their brother was... and was envy that he was able to run away. Their parents were busy trying to find him... but Ventus wouldn't open his mouth and Soran felt bad if he tattled.
They all wanted to go back to 'their' worlds... and didn't want to ruin it for their brother... no matter how they worried about him too...

He slowly turned his charm around, seeing that it was still being gripped by the Atterian and that his feet were still moving. Would he be home soon? "Terra...?" He whispered to the charm. "Can you see your town yet?"


Ocean waters ran over the golden sound as seagulls cried over the small town over head.
The morning, tropical sun pushed over the islands, brightening the houses, shops and school.

In a house close to the ocean, under lush trees, a window was opened. White curtains blew in the ocean breeze through the window, making white covers shift.
Aquatic eyes slowly opened, the silver hair in front of them made them even more bright.
Slowly the boy shifted in the bed before the eyes opened wider and a yawn was admitted.

Last night... he had confronted Kairi. She was a bit shocked when he had asked her if Sora was real. She said of course he was... and if Riku was feeling sick.
Riku had shook his head and said that he didn't think so.. but what he did know was that... their relationship was over. This news didn't go over so well... of course. Riku however explained that it just felt better to have her as a friend... and that his emotions were a bit screwed up lately.

Kairi had to admit that she was well.... flirting... with another boy. Tidus. She was expecting Riku to get a bit ticked... but he was actually... happy.
They parted with unsaid words... but Riku felt like everything... would be ok...


Black nails pushed up another black bead to a red one in blonde hair. "I think that's it." Exotic eyes brightened as a tall frame rose. "Take a look."
He pointed down towards the lake. The lake of lava that is.
He smiled as the shorter looked over, hearing the jingles his accessories made.

"So, what is it?" The prince had asked.
"I'm going to teach you how to dance." The imp nodded proudly.
"Dance?"
"Yea! You know... like... the dance you saw me how to do. We can do our own Danza.... all by ourselves! No one else will be allowed!"

They had worked for quite awhile.
Axel had brought Roxas into the closest volcano to pick out rare gems and crystals to use for jewelry. The redhead wanted Roxas to have his own things... so that they could both dance together. They found some cloth, making it into that 'embarrassing' bottom... but Roxas still let the imp measure his waist for it.

They gathered small bones and burned holes through them with finer bones, making them into necklaces and a waist belt.
The gems and crystals too were burned from the small bones and wrapped into Roxas's hair. Some dried mud mixed with blood was made to put some marks on the boy, to help him summon the demons in the fire... for Axel was sure there was no demon in Roxas himself.
The burned mud acted like make-up to bring out those blue eyes.

His bat wings flapped happily as he watched Roxas look at his reflection... and the imp didn't think he saw anything so beautiful.

[Reno]

Terra smirked. "nothing to worry about. So quit crying." He set down the charm and stretching out. He should get dressed and gather the water. It would be a long trip home.

He would take food too - but it would get so incredibly hot out there he wouldn't keep anything down.


Roxas chuckled. "Well, we'll see." He purred.


Terra set out not long after. Five bottles full of clear, healthy water was securely strapped to his belt, his clothes had been pulled back on - and because he was not able to take Ven's clothes as well he tore up the other's shirt keeping a few strips. If Ven couldn't visit him for awhile he damn well was gonna keep his scent with him! It turned out to be a rpetty interesting conversation.
"What... is that noise Terra?"
"Your shirt."
"What are you doing to it?"
"Ripping it up."
"WHY?!"
"Because I feel like it. Besides, you're not using it."
"Well, you ever think I mighta wanted to when I came back?"
"Tch, this thing? It doesn't even show your mark so it's useless."
"Are you... telling me how to dress?"
"....."
"You are!"

After he had started walking back home - almost a full hour later - he was reminded just how hot of a world he lived on. Without shade of clouds the sun had free reign onto his body once more and without cover old, fading cuts from rough sands got a second helping.

But Terra was determined to get home - he had made it to the oasis, he could make it home. And with the charm once again pointing the way he wasn't the least bit uncertain of his direction. With Ven's help that is.

The blonde, it seemed, also refused to sleep that night. He wanted to wait until Terra got home safely - despite the wolf constantly reassuring him he'd be fine. So... they talked. Actually talked that is.

It was a good way for the brunette t get his mind off of the neverending dunes, the shimmering air, the sweat across his body. Besides, he always wanted to know more about a Shee's lifestyle. So he elarned about the wings, the palace, the world itself, the thoery of the balance-
"So it's like a religion...?"
"I guess you could put it that way. I mean white-wings preach about the balance but it's not like a human's idea. We don't pray to it or offer sacrifices or anything."
"Mmm, sacrifices..."
"Terra!"
and of course the study. Terra was very excited about this Latium and his room full of books about thousands of worlds of the universe.
"I always wished our library had books on the worlds... I never traveled before." Terra admitted, flipping the charm in his hand like it was a coin, giving Ven a 360 degree view of the area he was in. "I've always wanted to, but Temptation is the goddess of seduction."
"You were... afraid you'd hurt someone?"
"I'm not a cannibal like the rest of my people. And I refuse to turn into one just for a selfish ideal."
"But Terra you're a good-"
"No, Ven. I'm a killer of revenge - even I know that is not a stance to be proud of."
"..........."
"..........."
"......Hey Terra?"
"Yeah?"
"You know I feel sorta stupid... why don't you just you know 'travel' back home?"
Terra chuckled suddenly. "Because this Ven, is something to be proud of. To be the second Atterian to cross the desert and come back home with news of the Oasis. It does nothing for the name of Tellus - but the name of Terra... that would be nice to be remembered."
"Second?"
"Rumors do not start unless some part, even very vague, is true. Someone else before I must have made it back to tell the tale - and it got so impossible to find, it became a myth."

There was, at one point, a fearful moment when he heard the yell of Ventus' name by a voice he didn't recognize and the charm went dead. Terra had frozen, and called for awhile towards it - but each time he tried to establish the connection with his own magical ability, Ven shut him out. It had been nearly a half-hour later of wondering and worrying later that the blonde had answered him.

And that was when he learned of Roxas' disappearence. They fell into... a slightly more sensitive string of conversations. Full of family, and friendship, and love and stuff that was disgusting like that - but Terra really wanted to know. what it was like having siblings that cared enough to lie for you, having parents who loved you, and having friends that didn't need to be afraid of you to like you. He even learned about Gin - the strongest Shee of Norn.
"Why don't you just drag your brother back home and bite him on the scruff until he behaves? Thats what the older brothers do to their siblings here. Heck I bet thats what my uncle did to my dad when they were young." Though he couldn't see it.
"You have an uncle?"
"Yeah, he's dead."
"O-Oh... well, it's not that simple for us. Roxas is like, obsessed with this imp named Axel and I don't think it's done him any good. I swear he's worse then you."
"An imp? Worse then me? Hardly. They're a cowardly lot."
"You just always have to win huh?"
"Of course.... though you know your brother must really like him. I mean if I could run away with you I would - if I didn't know that where I was running away to was in my arch-enemies' hands."
"Yeah but we're mates Terra."
"Whose to say they aren't?"
".............................. Let's change the subject."

"I don't actually have... many friends. My best friend is well... you. And then I have my brothers who I could tell anything and well... Gin I could always ask for for advice when I couldn;t of my own dad so..."
"Ven? You seriously need to get out more. You're pack is very tiny."
"Oh, and who's the lone wolf?"
"Hey, we weren't talking about ME."

All in all... he liked these conversations - but when Ven decided to venture outwards into the world (of which he saw exciting bits and pieces of in the reflection) their conversation became much less. Ven didn't want to arouse suspicion of his guard. He was really under lock and key huh?

He looked down, hearing the others voice. He lifted his nose, breathing in the air. Nothing. Nothing but sand and sun and and more sand. No hints of cooking meet, of the markings of territorys made by many of the males routinely, or even the never-ending scent of blood. It wasnlt even close.
He lifted the charm, his strength obviously stating to deplete. He gave a confident smirk however. "No. Don't get your wings in a twist, I'll be there soon. I can smell it." He didn't know why he was lying. He just... hated seeing the helpless, concerned look on the other's face.




The morning came on Norn, alighting the waterfalls with rainbows, the stream sparkling with life and the purple wings woke up to begin a morning song. It roused many of the early wakers - including two very disoriented and distraught guards. Something snuck past them - but the question was - was it in... or out?

Sora's eyes fluttered open, hearing the noise of his curtains fluttering with the breeze, the song whistling through the air and the sound of his sheets rustling as he stirred. The brunette yawned. "Morning already?" He groaned, feeling like, well... for lack of a better term, shit (Hey it seemed to be Riku's favorite cuss word).

At the memory of the silverette he couldn;t help but smile. He shifted up and placed his feet on the floor and - "OW SH-" Bam! The blue wings fluttered and fell across his back. Was it just him, or did the aching pain in his ass get worse overnight?

"Prince Soran are you alright?" A guard called from outside. His... assigned guard. Yuck.
"Huh? Oh yeah!" The brunette called back. He had a feeling... today would be tough.

After a drawn-out experience of getting his clothes on, Sora eventually left his room, wings fluttering behind him confidently. He glanxced back, seeing the guard following. He chuckled. "I'm just going to wake up my brothers, relax."

However, the minute he opened Ven's door, he was upset to see the red-wing was not asleep. He was already gone. Maybe he woke up early for training? His guard was gone...

He went to Roxas' room, seeing his guard still standing outside and grinned, thinking up some vil ways to wake the blonde and opened the door - only to find it empty. And clean. Too clean.
Walking inside was like walking in a cave. Scary, dark, uncertain, hesitant. He didn't know what to expect from the new shadows revealed from clean corners and perfect sheets.

His fear... came in the form of a brief yet clearly scripted note. In Roxas' handwriting.

Ten second later he burst from the room his wings aflutter as he flew and yelling back to the guards he left in his dust, "GET MY PARENTS! ROXAS IS GONE!" He was flying for the training grounds - but he hadnlt even made it from the hall before he noticed a guard standing at the study and he found that quite odd because there never was one before.

Going by common sense, he touched down and entered - only to see Ven look up in a panic, a glow of magic around him. his blonde twin rushed to hide something - but for the moment Soran disregarded it. Something important had happened.
"Look at this!" The note was shoved under his brother's nose.
Ven let go of his pendant in favor of taking the note and reading of the familar script carefully. It was blunt and truthful just like Roxas.
I've gone away. Please, don't find me. I need to find my balance again; if I can't do that, then I'm not worth of the wings I was born with or the title as heir. I don't know when, or even if I'll be back. If I don't return.... then I failed. I'm sorry.
I love you all.
Roxas

Beware of the one named Xehanort.

Ven looked up, his eyes cold, and both of the brothers spoke at once. "Axel." The blonde sat up. "Tch, figures he'd do this. We should go there and-"
Soran sighed. "No."
"What do you mean no?"
"I mean, even if we drag him back Ven, he'll return there. He needs to make the decisions on his own." The Shee of peace sighed.
"But Axel-"
"May not be such a bad guy. We keep blaming Axel - but maybe it's not just his fault..." He looked up at the other and smiled. "We'll just have to see. Come on lets find mom and dad." The two made their way out of the study.
".... Hey Sora?"
"Yeah?"
"Why are you limping."
The brunette took a glance at the other, his eyes gleaming even as his cheeks pinkened. "Same reason you are I suppose."

They decided to show the note to their parents. What happened their well... was not pretty. The twins refused to give up Roxas' coordinates (played stupid) and definitely said nothing about his reasons because this... they didn't understand either. They thought it was love, but from Roxas' note... it seemed anything but.

So now Sora was back in his room nearly two hours later, resting his aching body on the bed as he made the finishing touches to his next letter to Riku. He smiled with pride as he follded the pages in a very intercrite shape, looking over his masterpiece happily. This would take a lot of magic but...

He placed his hands over the top and shut his eyes. "To Riku."


On a little island known as Destiny... a morning sun was just riding on the waves of the ocean, casting the world in its glow. Beinging in the musky, dew-filled scent through an open window, to where a silverette beauty was just beginning to awaken.

He, like most, probably yawned and sat up, stretching like any other morning - but a piece of white caught his eye and he looked down on the covers of his bed. And there, laying silently across his lap like it had been placed their with delicate precision, was Sora's letter.

Or should it be said, string of letters? There was 13 in all, each carefully folded into a shape of a very specific bird - a dove. They had been arranged to create a close-knitted heart, Only one stood out on the white paper right at the top of the heart where the doves angled inwards. One that had blue eyes drawn on and nothing more.

But it was enough. And that was were Riku would begin his read.

The letter itself was a long one. Almost novel-sized. And full of lots of information.

I love you Riku. It began. I bet you're wondering why doves? They're the humans symbol of peace I heard. And well, they're very pretty birds. So free and happy - they kinda... remind me of you. A free-spirit, a free mind a free life. Never lose that.
And I bet your wondering what all the writing in the margins is too.

That would be the writing at the top margin and in the sides. It would name a color like blue or pink (and consequently was also written in that color except for those that weren't able to be read like white) and then define it by what it meant to a Shee, the popularity of that color and some adejectives to give it life. Green - life, common, nuturing and loving.

And then down the sides would be names. Names of Shee and their occupations. I told you I was a Shee. And that I have the blue wings of peace - but there are many more. Thriteen in fact. So each page I'll be introducing you to a new wing-color.

However I didn't write this long letter just for fun. I have something serious to tell you...

And Sora - or Soran, wrote about everything. He mshed light on his family, their personalities and their strengthes and weaknesses. The going-ons of towns. The theroy of the Balance. The alliances with other worlds they had (and lack of ones). And especcailly... about Roxas and Ventus. He told Riku about their excursions, about imps and Atterians, their goals and the outcomes. Ven's happy ending versus Roxas' struggle. Even though Riku had never met them, Soran gave a clear picture of them so much so he could probably almost imagine knowing them for a long time - and by the last page, where Roxas wings were the final message, Riku found something else to keep. Something real speacial. A wallet-sized photo. Of Sora's family. Wings, all of them. Smiling and happy. And a beautiful, stunning world around them.

Wait for my next letter.
Sora.
P.S. Keep that picture and never doubt I exist again Riku. It ended.


Roxas stood absolutely still as he felt fingers in his hair, feeling oddly soothed by the fingers moving on his scalp - so much he could purr. Until sharp pains of his hair being pulled into beads made him re-think that notion.

He didn't make a sound however because he didn't want Axel to stop. The imp had promised by the time he was done with him he'd be 'to die for' which he figured was a compliment.

So the day had already been long as he and Axel searched the world in previously unexplored areas, looking for the 'perfect' elements needed for a Danza. Roxas felt pretty confident at the whole idea of manipulating fire. Even here he was known to be a fairly great mage. The traveler imp that came to Norn every so often had watched him perform some spells apparently when he was younger and passed on the news.

Fire was actually the simplest of all the magical arts - but to wield it well like Axel had... was a talent that took years. He would pale in comparison to the other's light show... but he would still try.

It was the clothes that... disturbed him. He was horribly modest and self-conscience of his body. He never though of himself as a good-looking person or even cute before. He was just... him. Average with goofy hair and weirdly shaped toes thats all.

And in moments Axel had convinced him to strip and wear soemthing that barely hid him away. And he knew in the dance, if Axel was actually serious, not even that would exist.

At the other's askance, he went over to the lava pool, looking down at his reflection in the red glop. And his eyes widened. "That's... really me?" He breathed. He looked at Axel, eyes wide, before looking back at his self like a prom girl would in her perfect dress for the first time.

The beads in his hair were strung as long as Axel considers his hair was shorter and untamed in an upward spiral.
"Can't we you know, smash it down?"
"Uh... Axel I was born with this hair and I've been trying for sixteen eyars now. I'm pretty sure it can't be done."
His eyes shined so well he could see their exact color in the lava. Around his arms and ankles were bangles of all sorts that made noise as he walked. Around his left thigh was a strip of spiral metal that he been bended around the skin precisely - just for design. On his chest was his faithful pendant - chain having been fixed with some clever fire-work from Axel.

Around his upper arms however, was his favorite pieces. They had been found in one of the deep caves they had explored not long ago. Shiny rocks that were alight with all sorts of colors - but he had kept on the darks one. Dark blues and greens and purples and reds. Somehow, despite the high heat, the rocks had been able to keep their polairty.

They were magnetic gem-rocks. It was the sort of balance in this world he had wanted to find. something that was not seen the first time - but could always been found when determined. He loved them - and loved how pretty they seemed to shine.

He nibbled on his lip, before turning, looking at Axel suddenly even more aware of what he looked like and the lack of what he wore. "I-I do... l-l-look good right?" His cheeks darkened. gosh, he sounded silly. And why was he stuttering again?! He hadn't done that since... since his first day on Tarsa!

[Rikugurl]

"REALLY!?" Blue eyes widened but something below him rustled, making him clasp a hand over his mouth as he glanced down at the guard who was looking up at him. "Uh... I... just saw a butterfly that I never saw before?"
"You should let Sir Latium know about it, your majesty."
Ventus nodded then looked away, rolling his eyes before looking back down at his charm.

"Really...?" He whispered. He smiled softly and gripped onto the charm tightly, sending some majick to Terra. "I'll give you some extra strength... to go the extra ways... because I need to leave now. Please warm the charm when you reach your library safely ok...?" He smiled softly before slowly bringing the charm close, giving it a soft kiss.

He let the charm hit his cloak before fluttering down and landed next to the guard.
He slowly started walking towards the palace, hearing footsteps behind him. A sigh was admitted. God... wasn't this guard thing a bit unnecessary?

They walked through the kingdom, Shee bowing as he walked by or saying their hellos. Ventus just returned the favor, heading into the palace and down the hall to a familiar door.
He walked down the familiar stairs to see familiar red wings training and a familiar silver wing in front.
"Alright! Time for a break!"
The blonde suddenly yelled before everyone stopped and looked up at the prince. Without another second notice, the red wings were about to rest, drinking some water or talking to the others.

The fire winged Shee walked up to the silver wing, a slight bow as he came close. "Master Gin... could I have a secret word with you?" When Gin agreed, the two walked into the meeting hall. Before they could enter though, Ventus turned, looking at the guard. "That means you're not allowed in here either."
The guard frowned but saluted. "Yes, sir!" The door was closed and the guard awaited outside.

Ventus sighed as he walked into the room and then stopped, looking up at the silver wing.
"Do you know...anything about a person named.... Xehanort?"


Up above, a distressed looking king sat on his throne. A dark skinned messenger stood at the base of the stairs, looking up towards him.
"I am sorry King Jet... but we have found no trace of Prince Roxas's trail. He must of used high majick to erase his warping destination... something that he must of learned from Sir Artios himself."

Jet sighed, closing his eyes. He shook his head as tired eyes looked down at the red wing. "Thank you, Dyre... Has my wife been informed?"
The Shee shook his head. "No sire, she has not. I was going to deliver this message to her first but it seems as if she is not in the Traveler's Room."
"Then please deliver this message to her. I believe she's in the garden..."

The man frowned, seeing the look on the king's face. He seemed so... worn...
He bowed though. "At once, you majesty."
With a quickly flutter, he was off to find the queen.


Riku did stretch, yawn and sit up. His eyes widened as they laid upon a very strange letter... but he knew exactly who had sent it the moment he saw it.

Without any hesitation, he picked it up carefully and started to read.
As he read, he missed a few calls from downstairs that breakfast was ready and if he was coming down. He never replied to his mother's calls. He was too fascinated by all the information. All the colors and... even Sora's hand writing.

His eyes darkened though as he flipped the page... and there was a picture.
A picture that... didn't seem real.
There stood a man and a woman.
The man had extremely long, brown hair that had a wavy spike look to it at the top. His eyes were bright blue and alive with life and happiness. Behind him were wings... very much like Sora's in both shape, size and color. The woman next to him was fair skinned with beautiful golden locks, sweet lips that held a joyous smile and with blue eyes as well. Behind her... were wings too, same shape and style... but these were red and bright with a sense of passion.

In front of them though... were obviously their children.
Three triplets that were known as 'The Trinity'.
They all looked about nine in the pictures, huge smiles on all their faces as all three had bright, happy blue eyes.
On the right was a boy with blonde spiky hair. Behind him were wings much like the woman... but with a more fire like theme to them. On the left was another blonde that seemed identical to the one on the right, but his hair was a bit more swirly and behind him were wings of black and white.

The one in the middle though...
Riku slowly reached out, his finger running over the brunette boy in the middle.
His eyes became soft as he looked into that big smile with hopeful and honest eyes. Eyes... that he missed so much...
"Sora..." A whisper passed his lips as he looked at the boy, wings much like the man behind him.
Behind them all was a large tree with wild flowers that he had never seen before.

This was the royal family of Norn.

He slowly pulled it off from its holding, only to see a P.S behind it.
His eyes widened as he read it. "and never doubt I exist again Riku."
How did he....?
The silverette finally stood, pulling on his pants but forgot his shirt as he reached his dresser. He grabbed his black wallet and opened in, slowly pulling a picture of him and Kairi out and onto his mirror instead. This new picture replaced it.

Noise came down the stairwell and a silver haired woman looked up from the stove. "Oh Riku, there you a--"
The front door was opened and then shut, making the woman blink more. It was unlike Riku to have breakfast during the summer.
The boy walked down the dirt road and down towards the docks. Some children were already playing by the shore as he stood on a single dock and looked out over the ocean.

Aquatic eyes looked over towards the horizon, bright and determined.
Are you out there somewhere... my love?


The imp put his hands on his now very visible hips as he looked down at the blonde. It was... weird seeing someone dressed like this... with no horns, or bat wings or the devilish tail.

Actually... now that he thought of it... this was the first NON-imp to have a.... Danza. Would it really work?
And... why was he.... suggesting Roxas to have one? He blushed at the thought and looked away. "You look great."
Was it so that he could...
What an impish thing to do...

He slowly looked back at the boy, eying him up and down before smirking. They were both in Danza wear and the fire sky was becoming a rich, dark blood color... indicating that it was Tarsa's night sky.
He looked up, smiling slightly. "Come on... let's start."
He slowly walked away from the pit and grabbed a bag that was a tad heavy. He reached inside and started to pull out flat rocks. He moved around, his tail swinging back an forth as he made a circle from the rocks.

When he was done, he tossed the bag away and took another, this one bigger and lighter. It held sticks in which he placed around the circle of rocks. When he was done, he threw that off to the side as well. He then walked over, grabbing two drums and placing them close to the circle, but made sure they weren't too close to catch on fire.

He looked back at Roxas and smile before stepping into the circle. "Let's practice a bit before the show huh?"
Even if this 'show' was their own private one...

[Reno]

Terra nearly jumped at the enthusiastic response. Was it really that exciting? It's not like it had changed any since he last saw it - when he saw it.

He chuckled softly, hearing the other's talk of a butterfly and softer repetition, remembering the guard the other had spoke off. And with a tip off like that, he would have been instantly suspicious - but apparently Shee trusted to much. Heh.

He shut his eyes, feeling the jolt of energy and smiled. "I will..." He leaned down, brushing his chapped lips with the charm as well. And for just a moment... he could feel the other's kiss.

And then it was gone and the charm went dead. Terra pulled away, looking at the thing, expecting it to glow again... but it didn't.

His body tingled weirdly, his stomach twisted and his heart clenched. He... missed him already. He frowned, placing the charm around his belt, before fingering the bottles of water at his side. One and a quarter left. His skin was turning an ugly shade of red as well.

Hopefully that shot of energy was enough for a long, long trek.

He took a deep breath and with renewed vigor tore through the sandy lands. He would get there... he would. For Ven.


Gin was a pretty routine person. He got up every morning, went to the bathroom, took a shower, brushed his teeth, got dressed, did his hair, came for breakfast, gave a kiss to his wife and his daughter and then it off too work to train and order and order and train.

That had always been his way but a little firecracker named Ven was never part of hsi routines. He was like... a variable. an unexpected variable.

"Alright! Time for a break!"

It was a good thing he liked math.

He smiled, shaking his head. "Ven you can't just-" His attitude changed a little at the others sudden demand and he tilted his head. he frowned abit, but nodded. "Yeah no problem." He had already heard about Roxas somewhere between getting his teeth brushed and his clothes on - it seemed all the Trinity wanted to be variables for him this morning. Next Soran would come tumbling in wanting to marry Lilo.

Especially after that 'whole day' together they had which Gin knew all along was a total lie. He was proud of his daughter's loyality however.

Gin followed after, waving to the guard almost teasingly as they were seperated. He knew Jet and Runa were worried sick - EVERYONE heard that fight - but seriously a guard? Now thatw as just humilating, especally for a proud kid like Ven who took care of himself at all times.

The door was shut and Gin gave a glance round the empty room - but the question that came out of Ven's mouth left him startled and speechless. "Wha- how- you- How do you know that name?!" Stupid question. Roxas had known. Jet had told him about the note.

At the other's silence he sighed, wings flapping proudly on his back. He could feel the Balance weakening but to him it was like flies landing on him. "Alright guess you're gonna need to know no matter what." He motioned for the other to take a seat while he leant back against an empty crate, his hands placed behind him. Once the other was settled he began:

"Alright you know the story of the beginnings right? The times before the Ancient Key was made? The time of pure Light getting overtaken by Darkness?" When he got the affirmative he moved on. "Good. After Xan the black and white wing made the Key, it had set up not only a balance for us as Shee, it turned out to set up one for a good portion of the universe as well. It was far from being stronger enough to hit the edges of infinity of course, but it helped. Stars stopped going out of the sky and everything seemed okay."

He sighed. "There were oppositions of course. You've heard of the infamous Ansem who experiemented with Darkness and created new Shadows for everyone to face. Or the witch Malificent who tried to rule from Kingdom Hearts gates by imprisoning the Princesses of Heart. Or the Memory-stealers who tried to piece together their own hearts by stealing things of memory everything from photographs... to people's hearts." He got another quiet nod.

"Yeah? Well Master Xehanort, as he called himself, makes all of them look like hamsters." He growled. "I... wasn't much of age when he was locked away. Barely one I believe. My father told my stories of him though. Terrible... terrible stories. Many elders still remember him - and his name still strikes fear in their hearts. No one speaks of it anymore because of how much peace that has reigned for so long. Most of the generation below it, and none of your generation know of him. Your father... learned it from your grandfather as well. Like the knowledge of the Key, that knowledge is meant to be passed from King to heir when they come of mature age. Roxas... never reached thta age though, so I'm not sure how he learnt of it."

He leant back, frowning some. He could see the look on Ven;s face. He wanted to know more. "You know there is more then one Ancient Key of course? That Xan's was merely the first? That now there is rumored to be a ten? Each with it's own origin and unique power?" Gin's fingers drummed on the crate nervously. A habit not very often shown. "Your father and roxas know were every single one of them are. It is not just one but all. And that knowledge... can be very valuable."

"I only know the origins of three. Xan made one. King Mickey created one. And... Xehanort created one. Xehanort's... was rumored to be the worst of all. A world stealer. It sucked up a planet's heart and left it to die. The stars, in those days, started to go out of the sky again. Because of one Key." His eyes were dark. "And that was not all he did. He ruled the army of Shadows. Even the Atterians... were frightened of him. The Shadows, afterall, are said to be pure poison to them. Everyone was scared in those times, afraid and talking wondering if their world would be next. If the next trip out would be the last..."

He grit his teeth. "I also heard... that the only power stronger than his own... was that of the Shee. But Xehanort, that disgusting... worm, started to equal that power by overwhelming lone Shee that were out on simple jobs like improting or traveling... would kill them and suck up their blood. And then he would attack us. He's use our blood... as his greatest weapon. It enhanced his magical strength ten-fold... and nearly wiped us out for good."

"I don't really know how Sorias was able to stop him but I do know he put a curse on him to keep him locked away for awhile. But due to vying strengthes... it is said the curse itself is not very strong. If Prince Roxas is feeling his return is coming... I would not doubt it."


Runa was, as her husband predicted, in the gardens. Of course when you are married to one for so long, you learn to read your partner. She, for example, knew her husband was sulking at the throne.

He was always so determined to do work when he was not even close to his top form. that was...a king's duty.

She sighed, sitting enar the rosebushes, fondly rubbing the soft petals. she had them planted in the farthest corner in the garnde due to Jet, Soran and Roxas' allergies. They still didn't know if Ven allergis to them and she'd be happy to never find out.

Soran when he was young, was an accident waiting to happen. his feet were growing way too big for him at his small stature and he tripped over things constantly. Still did actually. Not very graceful for a prince, but no one really blamed him. when he was about 6 he had come to the gardens and one way or another managed to tumbled and roll right in the rosebushes. scratching up, covering in rashes and sneezes up a storm he had been sick for days.

Roxas had found out at ten, when a shy Lilo barely five asked him, in a teeny, tiny voice, to marry her, and gave him a rose. He didn't answer, instead he sneezed all over the flower, turned tail and ran. Lilo didn't remember thank god, but it had crushed the brown-wings heart for hours until Roxas apologized and played some girl games with her.

Runa shook her head, smiling softly but a fluttering drew her attention. She caught sight of Dyre, the messenger Shee, and quickly got to her feet, her eyes hopeful. "Did the results...-" his face was as grim as his answer and her wings glowed a little less. She sighed. "Of course... thank you Dyre." She turned away, not meaning to be so cold with her dismissal, but too hurt to care.

Roxas why...? What had he meant by 'needing to find his balance'? It was... true he had been acting off the past couple of weeks. His demeaner had changed, his attitude was a little more riled and his smiles became much rarer. He always seemed to be... in a hurry as if there was somewhere else he'd rather be. always finished dinner first, never shared how his day was...

She should of noticed ther signs. Like a good mother. But she had pushed it away as a phase. Or slight rebellion brought up from his dark-winged side. He was grounded after all, and some
Shee were known to reacted harshly to punishment. And maybe the stress and pressure from the expectations of becoming the next king... even Jet had had his off days after particularily rough days...

But running away... was it that serious?

"Oh Roxas..." the woman whispered, placing her hand over her mouth to muffle her words. "Please come home..." A tear slipped down her cheek.


Soran's eyes opened suddenly and he looked around the room. the candles he had lit had dimmed. He stared at them dreaily, before sending a glance out his window, his frown becoming more pronounced at the sight of the fountain. The glow was dimming.

How was Roxas going to find his Balance if he didn't have the notion he always had one to come back home too?

Under normal circumstances, soran would have heard Riku's call, but with the balance as it was and his own lax in magical skill and understanding it was lost. Instead he stood and walked out the room, sending a nod to the guard who had given him his privacy. "Thanks." He walked down the hall, not commenting as the other followed. He liked company usually, but he had a mission.

He passed room after wall, painting after window, and statue after figurines but nothing itnerested him. He did spare a glance for Latium's study - and it concerned him greatly that the yellow-winged Shee was not within, and the books were still strewn on the floor. He made a mental note to look up on his professor and clean the room.

The doors to the throne room were wide open. The doors were always open to any Shee needing to be heard. But... who listened to that Shee when he needed to be heard? Who helped him in his time of crisis?

He glanced around, seeing some other Shee strewn about their work. One cleaning the floors, another two talking quietly in a corner, a blue wing hovering by a window... and all of them were nervously looking away from their King who was slouched in his throne, looking miserable.

The brunette walked down the red plush carpet, easily climbed the steps and stood before the throne. His guard stayed off a respectable distance for both of them but his bow went unnoticed. "Dad...?" He called. It took another call or two for his father to finally hear him and look up and the brunette shee of peace was not pleased at the desolute expression over his father's normally strong and brave face. All that cheer that had been in him seem to of just left... like good skin left with age.

He never looked...

"Dad...." Soran murmured before his knees hit the carpet and he leant forward, wrapping his arms around his father.

... like he needed a hug more.


Roxas smiled at the other's confirmation, glancing back at his reflection, blushing softly. Axel said he looked great! Of course, this was all the red-heads ideas so that might be the only reason why but hey it made him feel much happier.

He didn't look... as awkward as he felt. Almost naked that is. He just looked... normal. He didn't look anywhere enar as attractive as Axel though.

"Okay," He answered, watching the other. his cheeks darkened however as the other went to work. he looked away uncomfortably at the sight of the ass presented to him as Axel set up the dancing floor. Was he doing that on purpose?!

He glanced back a moment later when he heard the sound of a drum echoing, getting a faceful of chest instead. God! The blonde placed a hand over his eyes, cheeks darkening a little.

He looked between his fingers at the others call. He gave the other a clueless look - before the other made a gesture to join him. "O-Oh! Right!" He chcukled nervously, walking forward carefully (no underwear, that was weird) as he carefully climbed into the circle beside the other. "S-So..." He started, turning to face the other, staring at the others ribs - damn was he skinny - before quickly looked up at the other. Face up. Look up at all times. "Uh... is there any speacial tricks to this?"

[Rikugurl]

The blonde prince's eyes darkened as he listened to his master's story. Well... it wasn't much of a story if it was true. His wings brightened, felling the word grow deep. How come... no one knew about this? Was it kept hidden for a reason? Would it make everyone live in fear that this Master Xehanort would come back...? Would this fear throw off the Balance?

He looked down and frowned. Was he going to come back before Roxas was...? Then... what would happen?

He slowly stood and frowned, but looked up at Gin. He gave a nod before turning. "Thank you..." He said quietly before walking out of the building and across the field. The guard blink and picked up his pace as he fallowed the boy.


Jet sighed as he slouched into the throne more, his chin on his palm as he stared out into nothing.

He blinked though as he heard footsteps coming up the carpet but didn't more at all. He seemed to be in a deep trace... full of nothingness. Why... why did Roxas run away...?
Dad?
He wasn't pushing him too hard.... was he?
Dad?
Maybe he wasn't--
Dad?

His blue eyes blinked a bit as he snapped out of it. He was still on the throne?
He slowly looked down, seeing his eldest son standing in front of him. He could see the look on the young ones face and sighed softly. He... didn't look very happy. What happened next though made his eye widen. Soran fell to his knees and...wrapped his arms around his waist.

The king blinked as he felt his son's warmth and a small smile ran over his features. He slowly leaned over, running a hand down his son back and the other though the untamed brown spikes. "Soran..."

Before anything else could happen, more footsteps were heard coming down the thrown. A brave stride brought the second youngest towards the thrown.
"Ventus?"
The blonde boy stopped and frowned. "I need to talk to Soran. Alone."


The imp grinned as the prince walked over and noted how weird he felt. What? Have he never walked around naked before?
He grinned even more at the question though.
"Very special tricks.." He hissed as he took Roxas's shoulder and suddenly turned him around.

With the snap of his fingers, small little demons appeared around the circle and some of them took to the drums. They suddenly began to pay softly, just enough for them to hear it whisper in their ears.

"Now... a Danza is a very special dance to us imps on Tarsa. our world's name 'Tarsa' means 'A worshiper of fire'. This dance shows how devoted we are to our world.... sort of like how you're devoted to this Balance on yours. Now here is how it works."
He snapped his fingers again and the drums started to get a bit louder, making the ground rumble a bit under their feet.

"Now... you feel that?" He asked as he leaned over the other. "This is what your feet must do. Move them as if they are dancing on the waves of sound that the drums make. Move them as if you are floating on them." He snapped his fingers again and the remaining demons started to clap together. "This clapping is for your hips. You move them as if these claps are like whips... helping you snap them to it.... like this..." He ran his frail fingers over the bare skin on the prince's hips, pushing more force on one side to make his hip jerk. "Perfect..." He whispered into the other's ear.

"Lastly are you arms." He leaned in closer to the boy, almost so that their skin was touching. "Us imps believe that arms are the connection between your body and the world. You can remove your tension from them." He slowly moved his hands up to Roxas's head, pressing his indexes on both of Roxas's lobes. "Bring all your tension here." He pressed a bit more firmly. A few moments later, he moved his fingers down the boy's neck and shoulder slowly before he drew the tension to Roxas's chest.

With one hand, he pressed it down where the tension was and slowly started to drag it over one of Roxas's arms. The black nails slowly slid down the youngster's arm, his other hand holding it up horizontally. He stopped when he got to his fingers. His own frail fingers found their ways through Roxas and then out, making it look like he releasing something. "Feel that tension just leave you? Your worries all gone?" He continued to ask in the other's ears. "Move your hands to release more troublesome thoughts. Release yourself and become one with the fire. Become one with your inner--" He stopped and shook his head. "Well... I doubt Shee have inner demons... but... become one with the fire."

He slowly left Roxas's side and pulled away, the demons making room for him outside the circle. "Now... if you do it correctly, you'll come into a trance. You'll become one with either the world or demon and it will give you the power you need. This power will open your body and it will release smells to attract others. When the music stops, you'll still be in a trance... and imps usually fly off to where they want to be...." He looked away and rubbed his neck. "You know. They say if you wake up from the trance, you are an alpha for you are strong to take in the power you have just received. If you don't wake up... you'll become the cohort of the one who... entered you first..."

He coughed a bit but shook his head. "And that's a Danza. Do you... still want to do it...?"

[Reno]

Gin looked at Ventus quietly, seeing the emotions playing out on his face as he took in the new information. He nodded silently to the other's thanks watching him leave. The silver-wing sighed. "I hope... that that outcome never comes."

He turned and stretched his wings. Nevertheless, it was time to up the training. He wouldn't let this nation fall - not without a fight.


Soran smiled softly at the warm touches. He wondered how badly his father was hurting. Having to deal with not only Diliza leaving him, but Roxas as well. One a black-wing one half of one.

Selfish... He couldn't help but think, and then immediately regretted it. At lweast, in his twin's sense. He knew what Roxas was doing and WHY he needed to do it it just still... hurt. To be left.

In the end however all of them had to leave someone. Ven left Terra, Sora left Riku, and Roxas left them. Someone would have gotten hurt in the end - it was just too hard a decision to make who.

Footsteps made the peace-wing glance back, seeing his brother and hearing his well... command really. He frowned a little - wasn't HE the oldest here? "Gentleness is a becoming trait." He stated wisely and teasingly, but he was glad to see his brother wasn't moping. He was already to his old self again - albeit a little bossy.

Soran let go of his dad but smiled up at him. "Don't worry dad, he promised he'd be back... so now all we have to do is trust in his success and he'll be fine."

He smiled confidently before turned and walked over to his brother, motioning him to take the lead.


Roxas stood in the circle uncertainly, and he looked at Axel. He blinked, his stomach jumping in warnign as he saw the evil look passing over Axel's face and his mind started to tell him to 'Get out now and never return' but the minute he felt those hands on his shoulders, nails nicely sharpened into claws, he felt frozen.

A snap. Roxas flinched. And jumpy. He was definitely jumpy. He glanced around the area, but didn't make any noise of surprise at the sight of the shadows. Sure the first time he has wandered upon them he had been a little... freaked out, just like he had been a LOT of freaked out seeing everyone naked, or seeing two imps uh well... doingit but now it was like an every day thing. Weird but surprinsly not hard to get used to.

His mind was taken away quickly by the red-head whispering in his ear, more a demon than those around them, and he couldn't control the pleasant shiver that went down his spine. "Eep!" He uttered, cheeks darkening as the other touched his hips and at the push he instinctively moved it. "A-A" He started to utter-

'Perfect...' Oh god what did he get himself into?!

But the worst was yet to come. The blonde became extremely short of breath as he felt the arms touching him, blazing a trail of flame after it. So much heat it was almost... unbearable.

His breath hitched and he shut his eyes, feeling the other coaxing all the tension inside of himself to expel itself, but he certainly didn't feel his worries leave. Cause his worry was right behind him TOUCHING him.

He sighed in relief as the other left, his eyes glancing at the other as he finished the explantion, blinking. Well he was a Shee, not an imp so... who knew how this dance would affect him.

He blanched suddenly when he realized something very key, "You mean I have to-to do it alone?!" He hide his eyes behind his bangs suddenly, feeling silly, but Axel only seemed amused if the glinting in his eyes was any indiction and he answered that yes indeed he had to do it alone.

Roxas swallowed hard, looking uncertainly around at the demons who were all perched and waiting, and at Axel who stood there, a look in his eyes that the Shee recognized. Lust...

It was a mating dance after all - and the success of it depended on the dancer himself.

How are you going to find you Balance if you do this? He berated himself standing there uncertainly. Then again... how would he if he didn't?

What was the saying? 'When the intial exit is closed off, sometimes you have to dig deeper into the cave to find the light?'

He needed... he needed to figure out himself and Axel first. His feelings towards the red-head and vice versa. He needed to attack the biggest thing tipping his Balance before he could take care of the small things, otherwise he'd be too distracted to do anything at all.

He took a deep breath, uncertain still. Courting his way... hadn't worked. He had tried to catch the others attention with gifts and words and feelings - and none of them had proved attractive in the other's eyes.

So... he would do it the imps way. "Alright, I'll do it." He shifted in the circle until he was in the center and stood there. Feet with the drum beats, hips with the clapping, hands with well... whatever he wanted.

[Rikugurl]

Jet blinked but smiled, nodding and stood as Soran did. His son really did remind him of his father. Proud and... always doing the best for people around him. "I will Soran..." He smiled softly before watching the two walk off, two guards walking after them.

There was a sudden clap, making everyone look back.
"Kitchi, Nadav.... have a break for now and let my sons talk in private."
the two guards blinked but saluted, walking off to where the kitchen was.
Jet looked at Ventus and Soran, nodding before walking down the stairs. "If you need me, I'll be in the garden with your mother."

Ven smiled and nodded before taking Soran's hand and racing down the hall towards his bedroom.
The two large doors closed and the blonde sighed as he leaned on them.
Blue eyes looked up into another pair as he shook his head. "Soran... This is really bad..." He shivered a bit before walking towards the balcony. "You know how Roxas said something about someone named Xehanort? Well.... I asked Gin who that was... and he said he was a horrible person. That grandpa Sorias put a spell on him and that it wasn't very strong. Norn might be in real danger if what Roxas said was true.... like... if he comes back! We need to find out what he means!"

He turned back to Soran and frowned. "I mean... we have to go to Tarsa.... or he has to come back!" He looked down and sighed before sitting on his bed. "I know we don't want to tell mom or dad where he is but.... we could be in a lot of danger if we don't... and not just us..."


Axel watched the Shee as he thought. His head tilted, the beads in his hair jingling at the movement. His eyes glazed over as he got the oh so sweetly innocent question asked and grinned, only nodding. The beads jingled more as he watched the boy more.

But that was when his eyes widened.
"Alright, I'll do it."
He couldn't help but lick his lips as he watched the younger growing more confidant.
He looked around at the small devils who were at his command.

Let the Danza begin.

Slowly he took a drum and a mallet to bang it with. He looked up, seeing a spiral of orange clouds start to turn above them like all Danza. This would be the forth Danza that Axel attended. None of them had been successful to him... especially not his own.
Maybe... his luck would come tonight.

Another snap of his fingers and the music started.

[Reno]

Soran smiled to his dad - and before he knew it he was being grabbed and dragged off, free of the guards for once. He blinked as he was taken down the halls and past many of the other shee servants and whatnot before he was thrown in his brother's bedroom.

He turned to regard his younger brother, seeing the worry and fear in his eyes. At the other's words however he frowned. Of course he still remembered the warning -
Beware of the one named Xehanort.
-but he hadn't know what it meant. all he knew at that point was that he was not a good warning - why would Roxas warn against him otherwise?

At Ven's words though he grew a little more worried but he frowned. "Ven... Ven calm down." He walked over to the other on his balcony, putting his hands on the other's shoulders trying to soothe him.

"Maybe we don't have to tell anyone where Roxas is..." Soran stated, his eyes comtemplative. "We don't want to mess up whatever he's trying to do. But maybe... we could go find him."

And get groudned more if someone found out. "Maybe... Roxas knows the curse is breaking and thats why he told us to beware."


Roxas stood there, silent and nervous - then the music started. He fumbled around a bit, trying to get his bearings as the drumbeats started. He moved, ungracefully, moving uncomfortably and Axel could see it. The claps were even worse, his timing off and his movements rough and not fluid. He started to yell out some suggestions above the music-

Roxas blushed, feeling foolish. What did he think - he'd be graceful the moment the music started like Axel so effortlessly was? No he was just some clown up here, messing around with soemthing he didn't really grasp. He couldn't dance.

But... but music was something he understood.

Feel the music...

Roxas shut his eyes, blocking out the sights around himself, the eyes of Axel watching, of the demons playing. He cut it all out like he cut out the world when he wrote.

The rumbling under his feet made him move and he blindly danced, the steps being made like his words and being felt as they were - in the moment. He rose his arms above his head, hearing the claps like he heard a song and just as the lyrical beats had to be, his movements had to be the same. He twisted and turned and smiled.

Maybe for him... this dance wouldn't make him one with his demons... or the fire. But his Balance.

He moved his arms as Axel told him to, expelling his worries as they came at him.
"You are not king material, at least not yet... the blackness in your wings have sucked in the selfishness of Tarsa." He twirled both wrists and crossed them raising them both above his head as he gyrated his hips.
"I remember when you're grandfather took on the might Xehanort - he was the only one not scared and he... he went above the odds and won." He stamped his feet harder, his eyes opening and flashing a little. he saw nothing around him as he spun his body, mixing the colors and spreading his arms.
"I love you Axel but... when the time coems will that mean anything to you?" His eyes flashed and turned yellow, his wings burst onto his back, though their glow was muted. He tilted his head back and lifted his hands towards the sky and breathed fire.

It was a small flame that broke in two tendrils twisteing around his arms like snakes, curling around his fingers. He felt the heat, bare centimeters from his skin. A Shee's magic was much mroe dangerous then any other creatures - because it was so easily to get carried away... destructions with magic was so, so easy and if someone didn't have a good sense of Balance... they could easily end up destroying themseleves.

"I guess it's already too late... this world already corrupted you...'

His feet and hips moved not to his relization, the beats were getting faster and faster. His confidence was growing. He kept his concentration with the fire as he moved, before he jerked both hands down and the fire untwisted and ignited the ground around him. He looked up at Axel for a breath moment, smiling slyly.

The flames crackled and the music kept going. He spun a 360 on his heels, shaking his hips to give Axel a nice view of his ass. His blonde hair was sticking to his forehead, sweat running down his back as the heat encased him. His hands flared gracefully in the arts of a fire-bender as the fire picked itself up off the ground and flew around him in spiraling wings. He was tempting fate as they came close to his wings, the burn just a wingbeat away - but he knew what he was doing.

His fingers curled and the flames danced to them, turning into poles of fire, more flames collecting at both ends like the ends of a scthye. He began to 'twirl' the fire on his fingertips, the flames never once even touching his skin. The poles twirled like batons and he twisted and moved. The fire danced light across him and made his wings appear dim in comparison. Sweat and weariness was beginning to make his movements slow.

The music started to crecendo and he knew the end of the music was coming. He knew he had to finish. Something grand...

He threw the 'batons' to the sky and the flames joined as if they had never been apart. Harmony. They twisted and turned until they took shape of a small yet long dragon. One with little wings and a small tail and tiny horns. It's eyes... were green flames and it even seemed to have purple markings on its face. He blew out another small stream of fire, meeting the dragon halfway.

Roxas held on the stream, as if it where a leash to the dragon. He seemed to pull it along as the beats grew louder. He control the dragon twisting it around the edges of the circle again and again as if he was controlling it. The drums began tow arn the time.

He danced with the dragon before tugging on the leash sharply and throwing it towards the air. The dragon flew as far as it could on the leash, and Roxas let it go... set it free. It flew, higher and higher until it met the sky and seemed to twist upon itself before exploded into colorful lights, making a rainbow in the sky.

The music stopped and in the silence the sparks of the fire fell with the ash. As the sparks hit the ground, they didn't crackle - no it sounded like the soft dings of a bell. It came through clearly in the light of the quiet.

Roxas stood there, no longer watching the sky but his eyes were on Axel. He was panting some, trying to catch his breath as his eyes slowly turned back to blue. He didn't move.

[Rikugurl]

Ventus looked up. Curse was being broken? So... that meant that Soran knew what was going on to... but how? Only their father and Roxas were suppose to know... and he was sure Gin knew it too because he was so close to their father.

Maybe Latium squealed.

He swallowed and shook his head. "We need to go find him and ask him what he meant!" He looked up at Soran, taking his hand slightly. "Look... I know you miss Riku... and I miss Terra.... but we do have to watch over our world too... and you don't see US running away... I mean... this isn't right for Roxas to do... Shit, he's a heir to the throne... we need him the most if something horrible happens."


The imp winced silently as he watched the blonde fumble over himself. Well...this obviously wasn't going to work. He put a curse on the mallet to beat itself against the drum as he swatted next to it. "Roxas! Just relax!" but it just continued to be a train wreck. He shook his head and sighed... but blinked when the Shee suddenly stopped.

His head tilted his head, the beads sounding as he watched the blonde more a moment... and then those rather large feet started to move. Green eyes narrowed as the other's body started to move... like it should on a Danza. He still had two minutes...
The show continued and the younger one's body moved so perfectly. A devilish tongue came out, licking the lips of the imp as he watched.

His own hands were pulled, clapping along with the demons he had made. The fire around them hot... and he lived with fire all his life. He never knew how hot or strong a Shee's fire was... but being an imp... and living on Tarsa... he learned that he was a worshiper of fire... and he knew that he would have no problem worshiping this fire... or its master.

The narrow eyes became even more narrow as he saw a bare bottom shaking at him, his fangs starting to grow as saliva ran down them like a hungry snake.
He continued to clap and eat up the movements of the other's hips. How they swung so deliciously... how the fire just melted around them. His black nails started to grow in length as his fangs became larger as his tongue continued to lick at his lips.

His own sweat started to be drawn by the display and the heat of the fire.
He was... really glad that no one else was here.
He... didn't have to share.
So... selfish.

The drums gave a last beat and the fire exploded around them, mixing with the ashes that were never ending.
The soft chimes ran out over the lava pit as the two figures stared at each other.
Axel panted as his green eyes glowed. His fangs were bared as his claws dug into the ground. A small tail wagged softly as his bat wings were ready to take flight at any moment. Sweat ran down his face, making his purple markings bold and highlighted those glowing eyes.

Ash fell around them once more like snow as the sky cleared up from the Danza dance.

Will you lead me somewhere.... Prince Roxas?

[Reno]

Soran frowned his eyes sad. "Ventus..." He shook his head. "Didn't it ever occur to you that maybe Roxas left because he thinks he isn't ready to... be the heir?"

The other started to argue but Soran rose his hands. "Yeah I know I know. We didn't get a choice either but we're ready - but come on Ven, maybe we were just lucky. I love the idea of traveling for a life... and face it you love to fight whether you admit it or not, not to mention bossing people around." He smirked a little before shaking his head. "But... I don't think Roxas is confident enough in himself to like ruling you know?"

He looked away his eyes dark. "And didn't you consider why he wanted to 'find his Balance again'? He didn't have a problem with it... until he met Axel. So naturally he has to be there with Axel, to figure out why."

He waved a hand before turning and walked over to Ven's bed spiraling out on it. "When mom and dad find out we've all fallen for guys we're going to be so screwed."


Roxas looked at the imp quietly, before suddenly he turned and spread his wings. With a quick but pwoerful beat he took to the air, sailing through the sky. He flew easily, not too fast so the red-head wouldn't lose sight of him.

He heard wingbeats in the air and he smirked. He flew over the lands of Tarsa, seeing the many imps below up to their usual actions. Not a one of them was interesting at all.

He glanced back, blue eyes gleaming seeing the other's tongue practically lolling out. With a chuckle Roxas drew his wings in, taking a mad dive towards the roosts. With experiences grandeur he slipped right into Axel's room. His wings spread and beat once more and he touched down easily before he hid in the darkness of the room right by the side of the window.

Not a moment later Axel flew in and paused, seeming to look around. For him.

Roxas reached out, his hand falling into the light from the window and gripping Axel's arm before tugging him backwards. He twisted them around until he had pinned Axel up against the wall. "Hello..." He purred before leaning up, catching the other's lips in a passionate kiss.

[Rikugurl]

Ventus sighed as he was stopped and looked away. It's all that imp's fault.
He frowned and shook his head before standing up and looking at his brother on his bead.

"Well.... fine! How about... I'll be king...? Yea! I can be king and Roxas can be whatever he wants to be. Then everyone can be happy... and Roxas can come back, no pressure or anything! Then... then mom and dad won't feel so sad... or depressed... like it was there fault that Roxas left or anything.... and then... I can start a treaty with Atteris. Terra's strong enough... he could convince the others and... that will work.... then you can start a treaty with Destiny and have your Riku."

He flapped his wings and sighed, looking back out the window. "I wouldn't have a problem being king..."


The narrow eyes widened as he watched the wings of the Shee beat... and he was off. Not a moment later was the imp in the air, the strong beat of his wings making the demons disappear and the fire disburse. He flapped his wings hard as he stayed close to the other's trail. He could smell the body orders from the other. There was no way he was losing that scent.

He also wasn't surprise that the Shee was heading to his roost.
His green eyes continued to glow as he swooped down and around, following the Shee and even reaching out for his nails to slightly brush on the other's ankles.

When they got to his roost, his landing wasn't so graceful. He had to pull back a bit and flutter in. When he landed, his eyes glowed in the dark but before they could adjust, he hand an arm around him and he was pinned.

A moan escaped as his legs felt weak, that trance running over is own body. Saliva escaped his mouth as he whimpered into the kiss. His tail wagged as he moved his devilish tongue all through Roxas's mouth, feeling every corner and space that he could. His face darkened as he moaned into the kiss, his black nails running down the other's wet hips as his very apparent erection pressed on the other's. "Roxas..." A hot pant escaped as he pulled away.