Prologue: The Awakening

 

 

 
 

"In ancient times people believed that light was gift from an unseen land by the name of Kingdom Hearts.

However Kingdom Hearts was safeguarded by it's counterpart the X-Blade.

Warriors vied for that precious light thus beginning the Keyblade War.

But the violent clash shattered the X-Blade into twenty pieces.

Seven of light...and thirteen of darkness "

                                                                                                                                                                               

 

In a barren wasteland where rusted, and lifeless keys once waged war stood a man of elder age. The land itself was scarred, and ravaged but had otherwise lay untouched by anything other then time. Surrounding the man were the once powerful keys wielded by ancient Chasers of Light, and the infamous Seekers of Darkness. The man stood there with his eyes closed as a gentle breeze lightly ruffled his long jacket. He then turned opening his eyes as their golden sheen reflected the setting sun. A young boy of seventeen stood before him. The boy too had golden colored eyes with the same look of unquenchable curiosity the elder man had once wore. He wore a sleeveless grey jacket over a white shirt with matching grey pants. His hair was a long mane of silver, and he had the developed tan of an islander. Like the elder man that stood before him this boy's name was Xehanort. The two contemplated each other before the one of them spoke.

 

"Who are you?" asked the younger Xehanort.

The elder man just waved his hand, and three weapons appeared before him. He pointed to the three weapons and spoke in a gnarled voice."Power sleeps within you. If you give it form it will give you strength," he said.

 

The elder Xehanort pointed at the first weapon a magnificent sword. "Power of the warrior. Invincible courage. A sword of terrible destruction," said the elder Xehanort.

 

He pointed to the next weapon a mighty shield. "Power of the guardian. Kindness to aid friends. A shield to repel all."

 

Finally he pointed to the last weapon a magical staff."Power of the mystic. Inner strength. A staff of wonder and ruin." The elder Xehanort pointed to the young boy before him "Choose!" he shouted.

 

The younger Xehanort contemplated for a moment before reaching for the sword. The sword disappeared in a flash of light, and Xehanort felt of a pulse of power flow through him. The elder Xehanort lifted his hand, and summoned a Keyblade much like the ones that surrounded him. A creepy smile played across his face as he opened his mouth and spoke. "Your heart belongs again to darkness."

 

He swung his Keyblade in a powerful arc sending a strong gust of wind swirling towards his younger counterpart. The ground beneath them began tremble as powerful gusts wind forcefully blew the lifeless Keyblades from the ground. The elder Xehanort smiled as darkness began to ravage the surrounding land. The ground cracked as the younger Xehanort struggled to stay to his feet. The darkness swallowed everything pulling Xehanort into it's depths. As Xehanort felt himself lose consciousness the last thing he saw was the smile of his elder counterpart.

 
 

A world where nothing gathered. Existing on the edges of both light, and darkness. Inhabited by those never supposed to exist this world was built of discarded remains left behind by other worlds. The once scattered pieces now formed magnificent skyscrapers. In the center of the city was an airborne fortress that floated in the sky dominating it's view. In it's highest tower top Xehanort regained his consciousness. He stood up, and gauged his surroundings. Before him stood a large muscular man wearing a large black hooded coat. The man's hood was up, and his back was faced towards Xehanort as he looked up to the sky.

 

"Who are you?" asked Xehanort.

 

The man turned towards Xehanort and lifted back his hood. The man wore a long mane of messy silver hair and he too had golden eyes. The man lifted his hand and the word Ansem appeared. The man flicked his wrist and the letters started to swirl around him until again he flicked his wrist. As he did an X was added to the now scrambled name. The name now spelled Xemnas.

 

He opened his mouth and spoke in a deep silky voice. "I am what's left or maybe I'm all there ever was."

 

Xemnas turned around and lifted his hands to the sky. As he did images of countless worlds appeared before him. Xehanort stepped back and gaped in awe at what he saw. Xemnas turned on the spot and smiled. Lifting his hand he summoned a Keyblade. It was the very same one wielded by the man before him.

 

"All worlds begin in darkness-" he said in his enigmatic voice.

 

He pointed his Keyblade at the worlds above and shot a beam of darkness to the sky. The darkness swallowed the worlds as the castle itself began to tremble, and collapse. Once again Xehanort found himself struggling to stay to his feet as the castle began to crumble beneath him. Xehanort felt himself slip once more into the darkness as he caught one last glimpse of Xemnas.

 

 
 Xehanort awoke next in complete shadows. No floor could be seen and he appeared to be floating in mid air. He looked around and gasped in awe. In front of him the decimated remains of the worlds Xemnas had displayed earlier floated before him. Even more troubling were the massive balls of energy that were congregating from those remains and moving towards each other.

 

"The inevitable reality of all worlds is ironic is it not?" asked a menacing voice.

 

Xehanort turned around and was met with a sneering face. He had a similar appearance to Xemnas but his face and attire bore an uncanny resemblance to the elder man he originally met.

 

"What do you mean? Who are you? What's going on here?" asked Xehanort.

 

The man let out a bone chilling laugh and pointed to the remains of the worlds. "The worlds you see before have succumbed to the power of darkness. Just like myself they have cast aside their shackles and embraced the darkness. Their hearts are now free to reunite as a collective whole," he said.

 

Xehanort shook his head and pointed to the senseless destruction. "This doesn't seem right though," he said.

 

The man laughed once more "You understand so little. One who knows nothing can understand NOTHING!" he said.

 

He pointed to the world's hearts "Each world is born from darkness emerging into the world of light. From there it spends it's entire existence being protected from the very source from which it came. That protection acts as it's prison forever confined by the light. You see darkness' true essence is freedom; a freedom all hearts inevitably crave!" he cried.

 

Xehanort looked at him and asked once more. "Who are you?"

 

The man lifted his hands to the air summoning a keyblade the same one as his predecessors."It is I Ansem the Purveyor of Freedom, the Seeker of Darkness!" he shouted.

 

Darkness began pouring out from Ansem's body and began engulfing the entire area. "So all world's begin-" Ansem shouted, as the darkness began to entrap Xehanort pulling him lower and lower into it's depths. "-and all so end!" he finished.

 

 

 

A magnificent, and beautiful kingdom known throughout the worlds as the City of Light. In the central square just outside the main town stood a man who radiated great power. He looked very similar to Xemnas but with a much shorter crop of silver hair. His attire looked out of place compared to the world that surrounded him. He was dressed in the traditional garb of the ancient Keyblade Warriors. The man's golden eyes had a dazed look almost as if he was not quite sure where he really was. As Xehanort came to the man looked down at him. Xehanort pushed himself up and took a cautious step forward.

 

"What is it you guys are trying to show me?" asked Xehanort.

 

The man reached out and grabbed Xehanort by the throat. He then lifted Xehanort off the ground with startling strength. "Who am I?" he asked.

 

Xehanort struggled against the man's grip when he was abruptly dropped to the ground. The man suddenly doubled over in pain clutching his head with both hands. He then stood up and opened his eyes, a dark smirk painted on his lips. He summoned his Keyblade the same one wielded by all the others and spoke.

 

"You think yourself so different?" he asked.

 

He swung his Keyblade in a heavy downward arc that Xehanort swiftly dodged.

 

The man let out diabolical laugh. " I will guide you to the depths of darkness! Only there will you find the one truth that matters!" he shouted.

 

The man tossed his Keyblade into the air and caught it. He followed up by planting his Keyblade firmly into the ground as it crackled with dark energy. As darkness poured from the man's Keyblade he pointed at Xehanort.

 

"Your heart is no different. Darkness sprouts within it. It grows, consumes it. Such is it's nature!" he shouted.

 

Suddenly an explosion of dark energy erupted from his Keyblade knocking Xehanort unconscious.

Xehanort awoke to the familiar sound of waves gently washing over the pristine beach. He got up and found he was now on one the islands of his home. This particular island was familiar to him as he had spent many a childhood hours playing here. He had even built many of the tree houses with the help of his father.

 

"Was it all a dream?" he asked aloud.

 

He walked towards the water and looked out to the setting sun. He thought about what he had seen. However he found that thinking about it brought only more questions. He sighed in frustration at the limited answers his home provided to his many questions. Questions of a world much larger then his own. The very idea of it made Xehanort feel tiny, and insignificant. He stared out to vast stretch of sky before him.

 

"This world is just too small," he said aloud.

 

He looked over to his left and saw a boy with a black coat standing on island across the bridge. The hooded figure too looked out at the sunset and instinctively Xehanort knew they had both been thinking about the same thing. Xehanort jumped up onto the bridge and crossed it. He approached the black hooded figure

 

"Xemnas?" asked Xehanort.

 

The figure turned around and removed his hood as Xehanort stepped back in shock. This time Xehanort definitively recognized who he was. Standing before him was an exact doppelganger of himself. The two Xehanorts stared at each other, their golden eyes reflecting one another. The black coated Xehanort lifted his hand offering it to Xehanort as he spoke.

 

"In the end every heart returns to the darkness whence it came," he said.

 

The black coated Xehanort turned around as an aura of darkness erupted from his body and consumed the entire island.

Edited August 28, 20169 yr by Robbie the Wise

Rad!! Keep it coming!

Rad!! Keep it coming!

Thank you! Much more to come!

Wow, the prologue was good!! Will you write other chapters?

Edited July 14, 201510 yr by Seeker Of Nothingness

Wow, the prologue was good!! Will you write other chapters?

I had a busy last week but I am going to have one up this week!

That's very good to hear! ...Anything about Xehanort is always good to hear!

That's very good to hear! ...Anything about Xehanort is always good to hear!

Lol make sure you follow the topic so you can keep up to date.

Lol make sure you follow the topic so you can keep up to date.

Sure, I will!

Chapter I: The Power Within

 

"Sharpen your fear into rage.

You must!

If you do not let the storm within you run it's course it will wipe you from the face of the world make no mistake!"-Master Xehanort

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                       

 

 

 

Complete, and consuming darkness surrounded Xehanort. He felt his very essence fading away. The darkness threatened to consume him as Xehanort willed himself to resist it.

 

"The darkness is nothing to fear..I can fight this!" he shouted to no one.

 

It was at that moment that no one decided to answer him.

 

"Do you truly believe that?" asked a disembodied voice.

 

Xehanort wearily looked around still struggling against the darkness that fought destroy him.

 

"Most people would believe that darkness equates an ending. Do you truly believe you can fight against something like that?" asked the voice.

 

"I'm still here..I..I haven't ended yet," Xehanort replied.

 

"This is true but darkness cannot be destroyed it can only be channeled. You've done well to last this long but you've only done so because you've willed yourself to survive. You've accepted that the darkness is not the end. Now all you have to do is seize control of it. The darkness will end you unless you do," said the voice.

 

Xehanort reached out into the darkness feeling it's aura surround him. He could feel the tendrils of it's power touch him as he willed it to do his bidding. He could feel his weariness slip away as he began to come out of his previous state of despair. He willed the darkness to dissipate and as he did he saw a growing light in the distance.

 

"Well done..perhaps you are the one," said the voice.

 

The light in the distance grew brighter with each passing moment.

 

"I don't understand," said Xehanort.

 

"It matters not. You showed no fear in controlling your own darkness. It is every bit a part of you as your light is. In the time before the worlds people thought light was the only way. In the end they ended up consumed by the darkness they brought into world because they knew naught how to control it. Remember this as you walk down the path your heart has laid out for you. If you do not let the storm within you run it's course it will destroy you," said the voice.

 

The light now burned with a ferocious intensity consuming all the darkness.

 

"But who are you? What does all this mean?" asked Xehanort.

 

The voice responded without answering Xehanort's questions. "Your path is set. On it our goals will align," it said.

 

Xehanort shielded his eyes as the light filled the room. The last thing he heard was the voice.

 

 

"Good luck...Xehanort..."

 

"Xehanort...Xehanort...XEHANORT!"

 

Xehanort awoke abruptly as he nearly fell from his bed. He looked up and saw his father towering over him. Xehanort closed his eyes and tried to capture the details of his strange dream. However he could already feel bits of it slipping through the cracks of his memory. As he tried retaining what little he could to memory, he was met with a smack to the forehead.

 

"Xehanort! Are you really going to go back to sleep right in front of me. You're the one who asked me to train with you today," laughed his father.

 

Xehanort sat up swiftly. He nearly forgot about the special training he had asked his father for two days ago.

 

Xehanort smiled sheepishly. "Sorry Father I was just pondering this dream I had," he said.

 

Xehanort's father raised an eyebrow with a knowing look. "I'm surprised your brain doesn't explode with all the pondering you do," he said with a laugh.

 

Xehanort's dad walked out of the room and headed downstairs. "Meet me at the usual place in fifteen minutes.. that is if you're not too tired to row the boat over there." he said with a wink.

 

Xehanort quickly got dressed and grabbed his practice blade before heading downstairs. He kissed his mother goodbye and headed out to the rowboat to meet his father.

 

 

Fifteen minutes later Xehanort was on the defense as he engaged his father in a warm up spar. He jumped backwards and blocked the heavy downward strike his father had just aimed at him. His father then proceeded to let loose a flurry of slashes attempting to create an opening. Xehanort however was very familiar with this tactic and pivoted himself from side to side with nearly flawless footing. His father then initiated a powerful forward thrust. Quickly reacting Xehanort slid to the outside of his father's guard. Xehanort then twisted backwards bringing his blade into an upward arc and knocking his father's sword out of his hand. In the next moment Xehanort used his blade to sweep his father's feet from under him, and then pointed his sword at his father's throat signifying the end of the duel. His father let out a hearty laughed as Xehanort offered him his hand to help him up.

 

"That was a good one son," he said.

 

Xehanort laughed as well at least his father was always a good sport.

 

"I think you're finally strong enough to handle your own Aura Weapon," said his father.

 

Xehanort looked up in excitement this was what he had been waiting for after all these months of training.

 

"Now as you know the heart is a powerful weapon," said his father.

 

Xehanort nodded having had the value of a strong heart beat into his head over the past few months.

 

"The heart allows us to draw forth and manifest the power that sleeps within us. This is how we are capable performing magic. Our hearts draw forth the energy within and we can manifest it into various magical attacks," explained his father.

 

Xehanort nodded eager to hear more.

 

"Now not only is the heart powerful weapon but it is also capable of creating powerful weapons. These weapons are manifestations of power deep within each individual and as such are unique to the individual. The heart draws forth that power and manifests it into what we call an Aura Weapon," said his father.

 

He lifted his hand and in a flash of light a large blue crystal sword appeared in his hand. "This for example is my weapon Tide Breaker," he said.

 

Xehanort gasped in awe as he had never seen his father's Aura Weapon. Then again on their tiny island home there was really minimal reason for one to need a weapon in the first place. It made Xehanort wonder why his father had actually bothered learning to materialize and use one.

 

"Now you certainly have enough power to materialize an Aura Weapon. The real trick however is being able to channel that energy and focus it into a physical manifestation," said his father, shaking Xehanort from his thoughts.

 

He gave his father his full attention, nodding for him to continue.

 

"Now this is similar to using the magic we have practiced these past few months. All you have to do is dig deep within yourself and draw forward your untapped power. The only difference is that instead of manifesting it as energy based attacks you have to bring it forth and will it into the physical plane," his father explained.

 

Xehanort nodded and closed his eyes lifting his right hand. He concentrated his power just the same as he did when he used magic. Only this time he dug deeper within himself. To Xehanort's surprise he had found a reservoir of power he didn't even know he had. This new found power startled him as he didn't know whether he could control it. Xehanort suddenly doubled over in pain. The power within him was already drawing forth and bouncing around his body begging to be released. His vision began to cloud from the sheer force of the pain. Everything began to spin as Xehanort struggled to remain conscious. He tried to focus on his father but even his father appeared distorted. One minute his father was there and the next minute he began to distort into something else. He then morphed into a large muscular man in a black coat. The man wore a mane of messy silver hair and shared Xehanort's distinct golden eyes. Xehanort recognized the man from the dream he had that morning but could not remember his name. The man lifted both of his hands and materialized twin blades of red. He smirked as the vision of him began to change once more. The image quickly warped into one of himself wearing the same black hooded coat that the previous man wore. The black coated Xehanort also lifted both of his hands and materialized a set of twin blades. However unlike the previous ones these were blue and shaped like the hands of a clock. Xehanort felt himself growing more weary by the second and could no longer tell if these images were real or not. Suddenly he heard the distinct sound of his father's voice.

 

"Xehanort! You must not be afraid of your own power bring it forth. If you do not let the storm within you run it's course it will destroy you!" his father cried, sounding very far away.

 

At these words Xehanort began to recall small details of his dream from that morning. In particular he recalled seeing visions of other worlds beside his own. For some reason this gave him a moment of clarity. Xehanort managed to pull himself to his feet and immediately his vision cleared. Seeing his father before him Xehanort raised his right hand and willed the power coursing through him to come forward. To his surprise a flash of energy sparked in both of his hands and twin blades of white-blue energy appeared in them. His father smiled widely and clapped Xehanort on the shoulder.

 

"You did it son and on the first attempt too!" exclaimed his father.

 

Xehanort weakly smiled back. "Yeah I did it!" he said.

With that the blades disappeared from his hands and Xehanort passed out from exhaustion.

Edited February 21, 20169 yr by Robbie the Wise

Chapter II: Ancestor From The Outside

 

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                       

 

In the months that followed Xehanort's skill with his Aura Weapons grew to the point of mastery. Long gone were the days that materializing them caused Xehanort great strain. He adapted quickly to dual wield combat, and soon his Malice Blades, as he had come to call them became weapons of deadly precision. He also learned from his father that he was capable of using them as a conduit to focus and use magic. Though this skill was much harder to master then using the blades themselves Xehanort soon found himself able to use powerful magical attacks in tandem with his physical combat.

 

His father too showed great interest in his Aura Weapons. Specifically he was interested in the form they took. His father explained that Aura Weapons are unique to the individual and no two weapons were alike. He explained of all the many unique shapes an Aura Weapon may take there was one that was not unique. Ethereal Weapons were a type of Aura Weapons that were extremely rare. According to his father's archives on Aura Weapons these weapons were associated with the divine. Their wielders had such untapped power that when materializing their Aura Weapons they always took on forms of pure energy. This was because a pure physical form like a sword or a gun had a finite capacity for how much power it could draw out. Ethereal Weapons had an infinite capacity and as such were the only forms capable of utilizing that power. Wielders of these weapons were quite rare, and always had a large impact on the greater world.

 

In his father's words this meant Xehanort must be meant for greatness.

 

"It's destiny!" his father would always say with excitement.

 

He would always have a look of pride when he explained this to the other islanders. But as Xehanort walked the beach late at night and stared out at the vast expanse of the ocean he was reminded just how trapped he felt. On his tiny island home he was a prisoner. Trapped within the confines of his world Xehanort failed to see what world changing destiny could possibly await him. Apart from mastering his Aura Weapons only one thought plagued his great mind. Looking up to vast sky, and taking note of the numerous amount of stars Xehanort once again pondered the other worlds he had seen in his dream. There was not many details he could recall but that part was always crystal clear. For whatever reason the vision of a world beyond his own resonated with Xehanort so powerfully that it had become nigh impossible to forget. He was inflamed by the idea. The very thought that there was more for him to experience beyond these shores shook him to his very core. Though he had no proof those worlds existed he knew that they were real. He was so sure of it that it was as if the very fact was etched into his heart. He sat down and continued to stare out at the vastness of the sky above.

 

He made no movement as he heard a familiar set of loud footsteps approach him

 

"Hello father can't sleep either?" asked Xehanort.

 

"How can I sleep when my wife keeps bugging me to find out where our son who likes to stay out late is," he said with a wink.

 

"Sorry father I was just doing some thinking and lost track of time," said Xehanort.

 

"It's okay just let your mother know next time. She has tendency to worry, and when she worries I end up hearing about it," said his father clapping Xehanort on the shoulder.

 

His father then sat down next to him as he too gazed up to the stars. As if reading Xehanort's mind his father then spoke about the very subject he had been thinking about.

 

"When I was your age my father used to tell me that for every star there exists another world," he said.

 

Xehanort was shocked at such a confirmation from his father. Xehanort turned his head and paid his father rapt attention as he continued.

 

"He told me that our people's history is deeply rooted with a man who came from another world. He told me that there once was a time when all the worlds were one. However something happened that separated them," explained his father.

 

Xehanort was enthralled, all this time he had wondered if his vision could possibly be true, and now here was confirmation. Xehanort nodded eagerly urging his father to continue.

 

"In the aftermath of the worlds separation a man appeared on this island. He arrived with five children and stayed here seeking refuge. He raised those children as his own and in time they began to call this place home. The people of this island welcomed them with open arms," said his father.

 

He paused and gazed back up towards the stars.

 

"Then one day the man and four of the children disappeared without a word. They were never seen again. The only evidence that they had ever been there was the silver haired boy that had been left behind," his father finished.

 

Xehanort was amazed beyond believe at the reality that there really were other worlds; that his own people had history involving them. The possibilities flew through his head.

 

"What happened to the man and the other four children?" asked Xehanort.

 

"No one knows they were never seen again. We only know that the fifth child remained here. He stayed here for the vast majority of his life before one day disappearing himself. It's said that though he left his descendants remain here to this very day. Although time and word of mouth have distorted which family are actually his," his father responded.

 

Xehanort contemplated for a moment. The males of his family had always bore the same long crop of silver hair. Perhaps his family were the descendants.

 

"It's not us if that's what you're thinking," his father said, interrupting his thoughts.

 

Xehanort smiled, his father always had a way of knowing what he was thinking.

 

"I've combed our ancestry more times then I care to admit and there is no link that connects us to that man," his father said with a laugh.

 

Xehanort laughed as well and then once more turned to his father.

 

"Why are you telling me all this father?" asked Xehanort.

 

"Because I was like you when I was your age. I too dreamed of a world that lay beyond these waters. I dreamed of the adventure and knowledge that the outside world would bring me," his father explained.

 

He let out a long and weary sigh.

 

"But those dreams are distracting, dangerous even. It was those dreams that almost cost me the life of your mother."

 

For the first time in Xehanort's life his father wore a look of deep sadness.

 

"I tell you this not as a deterrent but as a warning. Don't let your dreams become an obsession. Don't let them distract from what matters the most," he said gently.

 

Xehanort stared at his father then nodded.

 

"I understand father," Xehanort said.

 

His father clapped him on the shoulder his cheerful disposition returning immediately.

 

"I almost forgot. Tomorrow is your birthday. Now that you'll be old enough I want you to accompany me on my survey of the Northern Islands," said his father.

 

"What does that entail?" asked Xehanort.

 

"As an elder it is my duty to survey the unexplored islands to see if there are any resources our people can make use of," his father said.

 

His father stood up and motioned for Xehanort to do the same.

 

"Tomorrow we're going to explore a particular island from the Northern Islands. We got a long day ahead of us so let's head home and get some sleep," he said.

 

Xehanort got up to follow his father but paused and took one last look up at the stars. Regardless of what he told his father his dream of seeing the outside world seemed more possible then ever. Xehanort felt deep within his heart that tomorrow's journey would be crossroads of his destiny. His entire life suddenly felt as if were building up to whatever awaited him on that day. One way or another his destiny was upon him and tomorrow would be it's first step forward.

Chapter III: Destiny's Departure

                                                                                                                                                                                                                       

"The door has opened...The door has opened Sora! Now we can go to the outside world! Once we step through, we might not be able to come back. We may never see our parents again. There's no turning back! But this may be our only chance! We can't let fear stop us! I'm not afraid of the darkness!"-Riku

 

Xehanort woke up early the next morning and packed up some clothes and extra provisions for his journey. He then went outside to do some training with his Aura Weapons. He was working on a technique he had dubbed Peerless Slash. It was flurry of light speed slashes that temporarily stunned the opponent. It was followed up by two jumping slashes that finished the opponent off. Xehanort had recently discovered that by using his Aura Weapon as conduit he could channel his excess power reserves to increase the strength or speed of his attacks. This new technique was the results of his discovery. After training Xehanort returned to his house where is father was now waiting for him.

 

"You must be excited. I don't recall the last time I've seen you up so early," his father said with smirk.

 

"Ha ha ha," said Xehanort.

 

"By the way happy birthday!" his father said.

 

He reached over and handed Xehanort a small package with his name on it. Xehanort eagerly opened it and pulled out a long gray sleeveless coat. The coat was made of extremely light material and also had a hood.

 

"That has been handed down from father to son for generations. It is always given when one becomes of age. It's a lot more suited for combat then that stiff vest you have on now, especially with all the magic woven into.", explained his dad.

 

Xehanort looked down at his vest. Now that he thought about it his old vest had gotten quite tight on him. Xehanort had become more muscularly developed with all the training he had done over the past few months. His vest, as a result had grown more restrictive. He took off his vest and put on the jacket. It fit perfectly almost molding itself to his body. Although Xehanort was not usually one for fashion even he couldn't deny it looked good on him.

 

"Thanks father!" said Xehanort with a smile.

 

"No problem son I'm glad you like it. Now come on we have a long day ahead of us," his father said, as he grabbed his gear and prepared to head out.

 

Xehanort too grabbed his things and prepared to face whatever the day held in store for him.

 

...

 

Twenty minutes later Xehanort and his father were tying their provisions down. As soon as they arrived at the docks, they noticed that in the distance dark storm clouds appeared to be gathering. As his father wished to be safer rather then sorry, they decided to secure their equipment. After ensuring that everything was safe they set off for the Northern Islands.

 

As they sailed his father explained that while the East, West, and South Islands had been mostly explored, the North Islands were largely uncharted territory. The Elders had decided the time was ripe to start exploring them. In particular they wanted a certain island explored, one that was marked by a large statue that supposedly took on the shape of a horned creature. Xehanort kept a keen out for the identifying landmark while his father charted their course on his map. Xehanort who was eager to find the island would overreact to the slightest sight of movement. This greatly amused his father who was tense with worry about the growing storm in the distance.

 

Finally after what seemed like hours of searching Xehanort spotted a large stone structure mounted proudly on the forefront of an island.

 

"Land ho!" shouted Xehanort.

 

His father burst out laughing.

 

"We're not pirates Xehanort!" his father said, still laughing.

 

Xehanort laughed as well, knowing how silly he sounded.

 

"I know father I'm just excited after waiting all this time!" Xehanort said.

 

The two men sped off towards the island as the unknown loomed closer and closer.

 

...

 

After Xehanort and his father tied their ship onto the dock, they set off to do some long awaited exploring. The first thing they set out to examine was the large stone structure that guided them here. After trudging across the large stretch of beach, they finally arrived at the structure.

 

Finally getting a closer look, Xehanort was in awe. Instead of a tribute to some forgotten creature, like he was expecting, before him stood a magnificent statue of a unicorn. The statue depicted the unicorn rearing forward on it's hind legs. His father also seemed impressed with statue though his interest in it extended only enough to wonder who placed it there.

 

His father scanned the island then spoke.

 

"Xehanort I think we will cover more ground if we split up. I want to get this done before this storm hits us," he said, looking at the looming storm clouds. "If you find anything of interest or run into trouble just cast Fire into the sky,"

 

As if to give an example he summoned Tide Breaker and shot a fire spell to the sky.

 

"Just be vigilant son. We don't have any idea who or what may be on this island."

 

With that his father set on his way. Xehanort watched his father walk off into the distance and then returned to examining the statue. He was not sure why but he was drawn toward the structure and he felt that it would lead him into the right direction. He began to study the base of the statue, circling the pedestal in which the great unicorn stood. On the front of the base directly underneath the head was a strange marking. Xehanort dusted off the marking, hoping to get a clearer picture of what it was. As it turned out the image was that of a crown. It appeared to be on raised surface compared to the rest of the base. Xehanort pressed down on the crown and stepped back.

 

Immediately the statue started to shake as a beam of light shot from the tip of the unicorns horn. The beam flew high into the sky and shot back down hitting the statue. The structure started to tremble as it began sinking into the ground. Once the statue was completely submerged, a new pedestal began to rise in it's place. The new pedestal only held a glass podium. Xehanort took a closer look and saw that on the podium was a single piece of paper. The paper itself was ancient and looked as if had been torn from a book. At first the paper bore nothing on it, but when Xehanort took a closer look words began to appear onto the page.

 

"Xehanort rowed the boat into the storm, looking back at his father for the last time.

The storm would steer him into the darkness to a world far beyond his own.

Beyond the storm his destiny awaited."

 

 

Xehanort nearly dropped the page in shock. Here on an uncharted island, untouched by man in ages was piece of paper with his name on it. Xehanort trembled as he contemplated what this could possibly mean. Here right in front of him was a depiction of events that had never happened to him. Yet, here they were on a practically prehistoric piece of paper. What was worse was the depiction seemed to confirm he would reach the outside world, but at the cost of never seeing his family again.

 

Xehanort put the piece of paper into his pocket and sunk to his knees. He wasn't sure of what to make of this newest revelation. He began to wonder if he should even hold stock of what was written on that page. For all he knew this could be some elaborate birthday hoax played on him by his father and the elders. However no sooner then the thought crossed his mind rain began pouring down. Xehanort looked up and realized storm that had threatened them from the moment that had left this morning had finally arrived.

 

...

 

Dark clouds had gathered with startling speed, as heavy rain poured down like bullets. Xehanort raised his hood to give himself some form of cover. The storm's intensity quickly picked up as the wind began to blow with increasing force. Xehanort managed to gather his senses and as he did, he remembered their ship was still on the dock. If he didn't want their ship to be blown to smithereens, he had to secure it better.

 

He ran along the beach as bursts of lightning and claps of the thunder rolled through the island. He got to the ship and began working quickly to secure it to the dock. Once he was finished, he got onto the ship to check to see if their provisions were secure. He double checked their equipment making sure everything was tied down. He grabbed his knapsack and pulled the piece of paper from his pocket. He was about to store it into his knapsack when a powerful gust of wind blew it from his hands and out to sea. At that same moment he heard his father calling out to him. He saw his father running towards the ship as fast as he could.

 

Xehanort who was normally very collected, felt himself begin to panic. That page was the very key to his destiny. Without it he would be forever prisoner of his tiny island home. He knew it would be very stupid and foolish of him to go after it. Yet his heart was begging him with every fiber of it's being to go.

 

Without another moment's hesitation Xehanort threw his knapsack on and materialized his Aura Weapons. Moving quickly he cut the life boat from the side of the ship and dropped it into the water. He grabbed the two oars and jumped into the small boat. As fast as he could he began paddling out to sea. He looked back at his father who just managed to get to the ship.

 

"Xehanort! What the hell are you doing?" his father shouted.

 

The devastation, and desperation in his voice nearly made Xehanort turn back. He managed to collect himself enough to respond.

 

"I'm sorry father I have to do this!" he shouted.

 

"Xehanort get back here! XEHANORT!" his father screamed.

 

But Xehanort continued to row on. Tears formed in his eyes as the desperate screams of his father for his son to return echoed over the noise of the storm. As hard as it was as Xehanort rowed forward knowing in his heart, he had to push on. Xehanort's skill and strength allowed him to navigate the rough waters, but he was unsure of how long he could keep up with the increasing intensity of the storm. His eyes desperately scanned the waters for any signs of the piece of paper. However it was growing extremely difficult as the storm raged on.

 

Just when Xehanort had begun to think he dragged himself into death's arms for no reason he spotted it. He rowed towards it hoping that his eyes weren't playing tricks on him. His faith was rewarded as he managed to scoop the paper out of the water. To his surprise however the paper was bone dry. Xehanort scanned the paper noting it still bore the small paragraph that led him here in the first place. Unfortunately his moment of distraction cost him dearly as a rogue wave slammed against the side of the small boat. The boat was knocked into the air as Xehanort was immediately flung from it.

 

He clung to the piece of paper in his hands for dear life as the waves knocked him around. Suddenly Xehanort could feel the surrounding water pulling in one direction. Xehanort turned to see the water starting to swirl into a giant whirlpool. In the middle of the whirlpool was what he could only describe as a dark portal. Xehanort began desperately trying to fight the pull of the water when he remembered what the page had said.

 

"The storm would steer him into the darkness to a world far beyond his own."

 

If Xehanort's heart could speak, it would be screaming right now. He knew this was the moment he had been waiting for all along. With great determination Xehanort swam towards the dark portal. Without an iota of fear, he dove into the portal and felt it's dark energy suck him in.

...

 

Once again, Xehanort felt the sensation of floating in mid air. His body was sore, and he felt greatly fatigued. For a moment he wondered if maybe he died and gone to heaven.

 

"No boy, you are not dead," said a disembodied voice.

 

Xehanort recognized the voice but could not place where he had heard it before.

 

"Where am I?" asked Xehanort faintly.

 

"You currently drift the Lanes Between and are close to your destination," said the voice. "Once again you showed no fear in stepping into the darkness. For that I have chosen you Xehanort, " 

 

Xehanort however could no longer perceive what was going on and once again felt himself slipping into unconsciousness.

 

"Xehanort...my successor.."

 

...

 

"Hey are you still alive? Hey come on wake up!"

 

Xehanort slowly opened his eyes, and awoke to a young boy with long dark hair peering over him.

 

"Thank goodness you're alive I thought for sure you-" he said, stopping mid sentence as Xehanort suddenly pushed away from him.

 

Xehanort stood up quickly making quick note that both the page and his knapsack were missing. Xehanort tensed and quickly materialized his Aura Weapons.

 

"Who are you? Where am I?" Xehanort asked fiercely.

 

He took note of his surroundings and saw he was in what appeared to be a courtyard. Before him stood a grand set of steps that led to a magnificent castle. The boy who awoke him stepped backwards and put up his hands trying to indicate he meant no harm.

 

" Calm down I was just trying to help," he said.

 

"Where am I?" Xehanort asked once more.

 

"This is the Land of Departure..you fell from the sky.. this..this is my master's castle,"said the boy.

 

Xehanort felt his Aura Weapons slide from his hands and disappear as he fell to his knees. His last thought before he passed out once again was that he had done it. He had finally reached another world.

Chapter IV: Eraqus

 

 

 

"Upon reflection, my life underwent the most considerable sea-change when I arrived at that place. Yes, it began when I found a Master, and another I would later call my brother—when I found a new home."- Xehanort Report I

A gust of wind blew the ancient page into the air as a dark haired boy repeatedly shook Xehanort in an attempt to wake him. The page flew lazily in the air going higher and higher before finally landing on a balcony belonging to one of the higher towers. The page laid there for a moment before it was picked up by with a man who had just stepped out onto the balcony.

 

The man wore an ornate red cloak with an elegant hood that covered his blonde hair. His amber eyes looked over the page with mild interest before widening with shock. He stepped forward and looked over the balcony to see his pupil interacting with another young man he had never seen before. He watched as the new arrival materialized Aura Weapons. Much to the man's surprise the boy's weapons were Ethereal Blades. The man looked back towards the page taking in the words that had appeared on it. As he read them a look of curiosity crossed his face. There was a sudden interruption as a young man came out to the balcony.

 

"Master I was sent to find you. A boy, he fell from the sky-"

 

The man held his hand up to silence the boy. The boy handed him a knapsack which held a tag on it. The tag bore only the name Xehanort. Once more the man's eyes widened, a momentary flicker of fear flashed in his bright eyes.

 

"Bring him into the castle. Have one of the rooms prepared," he said.

 

"Yes sir," said the young boy.

 

After the boy left the man's eyes turned to the page once again taking in what it said.

 

"The ark had finally arrived at the Land of Departure. A herald to the rise of darkness.

The shattered remains prepared to surface all the pieces destined to appear.

A great destiny to be fulfilled alone.

Guided by the light of the first piece, Xehanort would continue on the path his heart had laid out."

 

"Could this mean?" the man asked aloud.

 

He tucked the page within his robes and walked back into the castle.

 

...

 

Xehanort came to the next morning and found himself in the comfort of a large bed. The memory of everything came flooding back to him. The torn page, the storm, and finally the arrival in a new world. Xehanort felt a pang of sadness at the realization that he may never see his family again. A lone tear slid down his cheek at the thought of his father's desperate screams for Xehanort to return. He thought about how his mother would react when his father would tell her that her only son was lost at sea. His only consolation was that he at least secured the ship and gave his father a safe way to get back home. Although Xehanort was filled with a deep sadness at his loss a part of him could not help but be excited at what he gained in return. The ancient page he found had told the truth, he had finally managed to reach another world.

 

He got out of bed and looked around his room. Neither his knapsack or his page were anywhere to be found. He then walked over to the window and marveled at the view. Just as he presumed Xehanort was inside the castle he saw when he first arrived. He took time to take in the magnificent landscape that surrounded the castle. He looked down and saw the courtyard that he landed on when he first arrived. His thoughts suddenly drifted to the dark haired boy who had found him. He wondered who he was. The boy had said that this was his master's castle which made Xehanort wonder if he was some kind of servant.

 

There was a sudden knock on the door as it swung open revealing the boy from the previous day. The dark haired boy gave Xehanort a look of surprise as he spoke.

 

"Oh I didn't expect you to be awake. Good to see you're not in coma," he said with a short laugh.

 

Xehanort observed the boy, he couldn't have been any older then fifteen. He had long black hair pulled in a ponytail with the remaining of his stray bangs that hanging over his forehead. He wore a long white hooded coat over a blue sleeveless shirt and rather large traditional looking pants. The most striking thing about him was he had a look of absolute cheerfulness that somewhat annoyed Xehanort. The boy walked over and he too looked out the large window.

 

"It sure is beautiful huh?" he asked.

 

Xehanort however continued to stare at the boy's attire.

 

"What's with the weird pants?" Xehanort asked rather rudely.

 

The boy narrowed his eyes giving Xehanort the notion he was extremely annoyed.

 

"What gives? I'll have you know this is very traditional gear. You don't see me making fun of your gray hair," he said defensively.

 

The boy looked had such a stern look and was so serious that Xehanort burst out with laughter. The boy looked at him for a long moment before laughing himself.

 

"Well I suppose to an outsider these pants are a tad bit over the top, " he said with cheeky grin.

 

He put both of hands behind his head and leaned against the wall.

 

"I'm sorry if I startled you the other day. It's not every day you see someone drop out of the sky. I was only making sure you were still alive," he said.

 

Xehanort crossed his arms and joined the boy on the wall.

 

"It's okay in all fairness I kind of overreacted," he replied.

 

There was a slight pause before the boy spoke again.

"So do you have a name?" he asked.

 

"Yes it's Xehanort," Xehanort said.

 

There was another momentary pause before the other boy finally addressed what was on his mind.

 

"So judging by the fact people around here usually travel by foot rather then falling from the sky... I'm guessing you're not from around here," he said nonchalantly.

 

Xehanort chuckled a bit at the boy's sense of humor.

 

"Yeah I guess you could say I'm from... out of town," he said with a smirk.

 

The boy raised an eyebrow as a curious look crossed his face.

 

"Well to be perfectly honest.." Xehanort said with a pause.

 

"The truth is I came from another world," he continued.

 

The boy cocked his head slightly, raising his eyebrows even further

 

"Really?" he asked.

 

Xehanort nodded. "Yeah it's a long story."

 

The boy walked over to the desk and pulled out one of the chairs.

 

"Well I got some time to kill," he said with a grin.

 

In spite of just meeting him Xehanort couldn't help but trust the boy. There was a pull kinship that he couldn't but feeling towards him. He didn't have many friends back on the islands, probably because he always felt different from the rest of his peers. This boy was different and the similarities between the two were certainly visible to Xehanort. The ease at which the boy was able to talk to Xehanort didn't feel forced either. It was natural like they had been friends all their lives. For this reason Xehanort sat down and told the boy his tale. He told about how he had come from the islands and the bits of his strange dream that he was still able to remember. He told him about finding the mysterious page and how it led him to row out into the middle of the sea during a storm. Finally how he crashed his boat and swam into the a dark portal that somehow transported him here. After he finished the boy let out a long low whistle.

 

"Wow that's quite a story. I can't decide if you're really brave, really stupid, or you just really hated that island," he said.

 

There was another pause between the two followed by another bout of laughter.

 

"Well to be fair that was a pretty out of character thing for me to do. But when destiny calls..." Xehanort said, trailing off.

 

"Well I can respect how fearless you are even if that was pretty stupid," said the boy with a slight chuckle. "Although that just means I have someone else around here that is not afraid of a little danger. Unlike the rest of the stiffs around here." With what was beginning to seem like his trademark grin he got up and extended his hand.

 

"Regardless of how you got here, I feel like it was meant to be. So I figure having a friend might make the transition easier," he said.

 

Xehanort looked at the boy with a grin and shook his hand.

 

"By the way you never told me what your name was," said Xehanort.

 

"Oh, " he said with a slight pause."My name is Eraqus."

 

He stood up and motioned for Xehanort to do the same. "Come on I'll show you around," he said.

 

Xehanort got up and followed as the two boys set off, ready for whatever adventure that fate had in store for them.

Chapter V: Master Ansem

 

Over the course of the next few days Xehanort and Eraqus became fast friends. The pair had become almost inseparable, often engaging in practice spars, or holding deep conversations. Eraqus wasted little time showing Xehanort all of his hangouts, both in and around the castle.

 

Today the pair were hanging out at the old training grounds, located a little ways out from the castle. The grounds overlooked the surrounding mountains, and villages. Eraqus explained to Xehanort that the area was once often used for training, but now it served as a hangout for students, as well as making a great observation point for the frequent meteor showers. While they relaxed Eraqus began explaining the purpose of the castle. It served as place where young pupils could study magic and combat.

 

The castle was under the leadership of a man named Ansem who held the title of Master. Under Ansem, there served a council of mentors who tutored the students in their respective areas of expertise. When a pupil proved him or herself of high caliber potential, they were invited to undergo an apprenticeship with Master Ansem for more 'specialized training'. Eraqus was about to explain what that training entailed, when a man in a white robe approached them.

 

Eraqus let out a loud groan.

 

"Oh boy here we go," he muttered.

 

The man reached them, and pointed at Eraqus with a stern look on his face.

 

"Eraqus where have you been? This is the third lesson you've missed this week," he said.

 

Eraqus gave the man a bored look.

 

"Come on Jensen lighten up. It's not like I've missed anything that I don't already know," he said dryly.

 

Jensen let out a sigh of frustration. "I don't care how advanced you are in your abilities. Your father would not appreciate you and your sister skipping lessons for your-" he looked smugly at Xehanort-"frivolous pursuits."

 

From the context of the exchange, Xehanort could tell two things. The first was that this was a reoccurring argument between the pair, and the second was that Jensen for whatever reason, disapproved of Eraqus' new found friendship with Xehanort. As if to prove his observation correct, Eraqus simply shrugged casually at Jensen, rubbing him off. Jensen in return shot a nasty look at Xehanort before returning his attention to Eraqus, who clearly didn't have the slightest interest in what he was saying. Instead he put his hands behind his head, and leaned back slightly a smirk sliding on his face.

 

"So my sister is playing hooky too?" Eraqus asked Jensen.

 

Jensen tossed Eraqus an annoyed look that gave him the answer.

 

"Yes, apparently the notion that class is beneath you runs in the family," he said.

 

Eraqus laughed. "Which is why her and I make a good team. Great minds think alike."

 

This time it was Jensen's turn to slide a smirk on his face. "Well great minds become less great when they don't keep up with their studies. A sentiment I shared with your father when I told him of your...absences."

 

Eraqus once again let out a groan.

 

"Really Jensen, you just had to snitch me out," he said, clearly annoyed.

 

Jensen straightened himself to full height, smiling at his small victory. "Yes..Yes I did. Your father expects you in his study by the end of the day... and bring the boy too." With that Jensen bid the pair a good day and walked smugly back towards the castle.

 

Eraqus turned back to Xehanort still wearing an annoyed look. "I know Jensen means well but sometimes he is a real in the-" Eraqus stopped, and let out a long sigh. "-Well I guess there is no use griping about it. Might as well get this over with now."

 

Eraqus began walking back to the castle, and motioned for Xehanort to follow. Xehanort however halted Eraqus.

 

"Hey Eraqus no offense but why on earth do I have to meet with your father? Is he someone important around here?" Xehanort asked.

 

Eraqus rubbed the back of his head nervously and let out a small sigh. "Look I didn't want to bring it up right away for a couple reasons,"- his face had suddenly contorted to look like he was about to spit out something unpleasant.-"You have to understand people treat me different once they find out." Eraqus was clearly about to admit something that was a source of discomfort to him.

 

"Will you just spit it out Eraqus," Xehanort said, as he started to laugh."I promise not to judge you."

 

Eraqus stared at Xehanort for a moment.

 

"Well you know how I told you about the master of the castle?... Well I forgot to mention he's also my father..." he said, trailing off.

 

"And?" Xehanort asked, rather bluntly.

 

Eraqus snorted.

 

"What do you mean 'and'?" he asked. "That's a kind of a big deal."

 

Xehanort shrugged.

 

"It's not as big a deal as you're making it to be. Back on the Islands my father was on the Council of Elders," he said.

 

Eraqus stared at Xehanort for a long time dumbfounded at his new friends reaction, or lack of reaction at such big news. Clearly Xehanort was the first person to ever be unimpressed with Eraqus' father being the master of the castle. Finally Eraqus clapped Xehanort on the back.

 

"You know this is why we get along so well, you don't let anything phase you. My sister is going to love you. I can't wait to introduce you," he said with a smile.

 

The two boys began trailing their way back to the castle. As they walked Xehanort decided to ask Eraqus something that had slightly bothered about his recent revelation.

 

"Eraqus, why would your father's position be something you're ashamed of?" he asked.

 

Eraqus was silent for a moment before letting out a soft sigh." I'm not ashamed of him it's just we don't always get along.-" he stopped walking-"He doesn't treat me like his son half the time. I'm more like his student...I mean what sort father makes his son refer to him by his full name and title."

 

Xehanort nodded in understanding. Even though his relationship with his father was a lot different he still understood the strain that comes from your father being an important public figure. The two started walking again as Eraqus continued

 

"I mean it wouldn't be so bad if it was just in public but it's all the time. He's like one of those weird actors who never breaks character," Eraqus said sarcastically, putting his hands behind his head.

 

Xehanort laughed at the joke causing Eraqus to laugh as well.

 

"Well I guess you'll be finding out for yourself since he wants to meet you as well," Eraqus said.

 

He gave Xehanort a curious look wondering what his father could possibly want with him. As the two closed in on the castle, he could have sworn he saw a flash of blonde hair sweep into the doors. But when they arrived at the doors there was nothing there. Deciding his eyes were playing tricks on him he brushed it off and followed Eraqus into the castle as they headed for his father's study.

 

...

 

 

Eraqus led Xehanort through the castle before finally stopping before two large heavily decorated doors.

 

"Well here goes nothing," Eraqus said.

 

He knocked three times on the door and waited. There was a momentary pause before the two heard a voice telling them to enter. Eraqus pushed the doors open, and entered the study, as Xehanort followed suit. The room was full of bookcases, each holding many large volumes, and ancient looking scrolls. A large glass stained door, leading to an outside balcony, filled the back of the room. In the center of the room stood a lone desk, and chair. The man occupying the chair could only be Eraqus' father Master Ansem. Xehanort's first impression of the man, was one of authority. The man oozed an aura that left no doubt as to which man in the room was in charge. He wore an ornately decorated cloak of red. Underneath the cloak was a set of highly traditional looking robes. He had blonde hair, despite his aged face, and had striking amber colored eyes. His eyes told Xehanort more of a story then any words could. It was here Xehanort saw a man of great intelligence, and power. His eyes told Xehanort that before him stood a man not to be trifled with. Master Ansem met Xehanort's gaze as the two sized each other up.

Finally it was Eraqus who broke the silence.

 

"Father you wished to-" Master Ansem looked sharply at his son, and cleared his throat rather loudly. "-I mean Master Ansem, you wished to see me," Eraqus said, quickly correcting himself.

 

"It has come to my attention that you, and your sister have been skipping your lessons with Mentor Jensen," Master Ansem said, after a slight pause.

 

Eraqus quickly went on the defensive. "But sir, Jensen is just being a stiff. He refuses to move us forward in our lessons even though we have long since mastered the material. It's not our fault the rest of students are-"

 

Master Ansem held up his hand effectively silencing his son in way Xehanort had yet to see since he arrived.

 

"I did not ask you for excuses," he said, harshly giving Eraqus a stern look. "I expect you, and your sister to be at Mentor Jensen's next lesson no excuses."

 

"But sir-" Eraqus said, starting to complain.

 

His father stood up to full height, making even Xehanort flinch.

 

"That was an order, and I expect it to be followed. Am I understood?" he asked.

 

Eraqus reluctantly nodded lowering his head in defeat.

 

"Yes sir," he said.

 

"Good, you're dismissed and if you happen upon your sister relay her the message."

 

With that Eraqus traipsed out of the study, still wearing a look of defeat.

 

Xehanort was about to follow him when he was halted by Master Ansem.

 

"I did not dismiss you yet," he said.

 

Xehanort turned back around and walked back to the desk.

 

Master Ansem sat back down in his seat.

 

"Please have a seat." he said.

 

Xehanort looked around for a chair but there was none to be found.

 

Master Ansem chuckled slightly.

 

"My apologies," he said, as he waved his hand and conjured a chair from thin air.

 

Xehanort's mouth dropped open in awe as he sat down in the chair.

 

"Please excuse my earlier tone, my children have been ah...rebellious as of late. They require a firm hand," Master Ansem said.

 

Xehanort kept silent about the subject, feeling it was not his place to question anyone's parenting skills. Instead he blurted out something else.

 

"How did you make that chair appear out of nothing." he asked.

 

Master Ansem laughed. "Inquisitive I see-" He held out a hand. "-Before existence, there existed nothing. Out of that void of emptiness the beginning of our world was born. Nothingness lays on the cusp of both destruction and creation. Harnessing it allows us minor abilities of creation.-"he materialized a small apple and tossed it to Xehanort. "-Few have the ability to master it. Even those that have only have are only able create no more then furniture or small amounts of food, " he explained.

 

"Do students learn that here?" Xehanort asked.

 

"It is not learned by the students..at least not by the average student," Master Ansem responded.

 

Xehanort nodded in understanding. Master Ansem studied Xehanort rather curiously before speaking again.

 

"Eraqus tells me you came here from another world. Is this true?" he asked.

 

Xehanort hesitated before nodding. " Yes sir."

 

Master Ansem nodded in return.

 

"From which world did you come from?" he asked.

 

"Destiny Islands sir," responded Xehanort.

 

Upon hearing this Master Ansem raised an eyebrow, his curiosity peaking with interest.

 

"That world has rich and extensive history," he said.

 

"Yes my father has told me some of it. How an outsider came to Destiny Islands with five children, and how he left leaving one of his children behind," Xehanort said.

 

Master Ansem stroked his beard and smiled.

 

"Yes..that's how the story goes," he said slowly.

 

The way he said it gave Xehanort the impression that there was much more to the story that Master Ansem knew of. However he didn't elaborate, and instead appeared to be in a state of deep contemplation. Xehanort stayed nervously silent waiting for Master Ansem to continue. He suddenly returned his attention back to Xehanort.

 

"How did you escape your world? Under the circumstances it should have been impossible."

 

Xehanort hesitated for a moment not holding the same level of trust with Master Ansem that he shared with Eraqus. Xehanort proceeded to tell Master Ansem a modified version of the events that led to his arrival at Destiny Islands. He made certain to leave out certain details such as the ancient page he found. When he finished Ansem studied Xehanort giving him the impression that he was aware Xehanort was not being wholly truthful.

 

"Do you wish to return home?" he asked, suddenly.

 

Of all the questioned he could have asked this was the last one Xehanort expected.

 

"Wha..what?" Xehanort stuttered.

 

"Do you wish to return home? If you so desire I can easily return you to the Islands. That is, if that's what you want," he said, watching Xehanort carefully.

 

Xehanort was suddenly filled with anxiety. He couldn't leave now, he had only just arrived. He thought about his parents who were probably stricken with grief at the apparent loss of their son. However his heart was desperately reminding him that his place was far beyond the shores of Destiny Islands. His destiny began at the Land of Departure, and he knew in his heart he had to finish on the path he started.

 

"No sir I believe I was brought here for a reason and... I would like to see what that reason is. I think this place has a lot more to offer me then the Islands," Xehanort said.

 

Master Ansem gave Xehanort a short nod. "This castle serves to teach students in arts that will equip them for a world much larger then their own. Whether it is combat, magic, or defensive strategy, our Mentors who teach here are the best. Few students master what we have to teach here, even fewer have the qualities necessary for the true calling that this castle offers. I hope you prove yourself one of those few. I expect you to join Eraqus and my daughter at their next lesson.-"

 

Xehanort interrupted. "Pardon the interruption but what is this true calling you speak of. Eraqus said you do specialized training but he never got around to explaining what that training is."

 

Master Ansem laughed.

 

"Follow my son around I'm sure you'll figure it out. Part of discovery is the journey that leads to it," he said with a wink.

 

For some reason Xehanort felt this statement held a double meaning.

 

"At any rate you will begin your lessons alongside my children. Do your best to impress me. You are dismissed," Master Ansem said.

 

Xehanort got up and was about to leave when Master Ansem halted him.

 

"One more thing when you arrived I noticed you were capable of materializing Ethereal Blades. Could you show me?" he asked.

 

Xehanort lifted his hands and summoned forth his blades. Master Ansem nodded approvingly.

 

"A very impressive form of Aura Weapon, even more so for one of your age. Thank you for showing me you're free to go," he said.

 

He stood and reached behind his desk pulling out what Xehanort immediately recognized as his knapsack. "I believe this belongs to you. It was brought to me when you first arrived."

 

Xehanort took it, and ruffled through it's contents everything appeared to be there except the torn page.

 

"Sir did anyone find anything else when I arrived? Maybe a torn page?"he asked

 

Master Ansem gave Xehanort a questioning look.

 

"It's a keepsake from my father," Xehanort quickly made up.

 

Master Ansem looked at Xehanort for a long time before shaking his head. He looked directly into Xehanort's eyes.

 

"No one reported finding such an object. It must have gotten lost when you arrived," he said.

 

With that Xehanort left the study, and went to go search for Eraqus.

Edited August 17, 20169 yr by Robbie the Wise

Chapter VI: Nadia

 

"The three of us will always be one."- Aqua

 

As it turned out Xehanort didn't have to look too hard for his friend. He found Eraqus close by, leaning against one of the support pillars, a worried expression painted on his face. Xehanort decided to take the opportunity and scare him. He stealthily snuck up on Eraqus and tapped him on the shoulder.

 

Eraqus nearly fell over, letting out a shout of surprise.

 

"Geesh Xehanort what the hell," he said.

 

Xehanort laughed loudly at his handiwork as he helped Eraqus steady himself.

 

"Sorry Eraqus I couldn't pass up the opportunity," said Xehanort.

 

Eraqus gave a short laugh wearing an amused look. "It's not that big a deal-" he punched Xehanort lightly on the arm. "-To be honest I didn't think you had that kind of thing in you. You're usually so straitlaced," he said.

 

Xehanort punched Eraqus lightly in return. "Hey! What's that supposed to mean?"

 

The boys continued to laugh as the headed away from Master Ansem's study.

 

"So your dad is..." Xehanort started.

 

"Intimidating, bossy, out of touch with how to be a parent," Eraqus listed off.

 

"I think intimidating would have been my first inclination, but I suppose those other adjectives could also be applied," Xehanort said with a laugh.

 

"So what did my father want anyway?" Eraqus asked, turning to Xehanort with a look of curiosity.

 

"Well he wanted to know if I was really from another world. Then he wanted to hear the story about how I got here. So I told him 'pretty' much everything," Xehanort said.

 

"Only 'pretty' much everything?" Eraqus asked.

 

Xehanort nodded. "Yeah I kind of...left some details to myself," he said.

 

"That was probably smart, it's best to not place all your eggs in one basket. Especially if that basket is being held by my father."

 

Xehanort gave Eraqus a questioning look. "What do you mean?" he asked.

 

Eraqus stopped walking momentarily "My father has been known to like controlling the situation. He likes order and structure. Sometimes he manipulates things in order fit things into the way he feels they should be," Eraqus explained.

 

Xehanort nodded, relieved his instinct to not be totally trusting of Master Ansem wasn't unfounded.

 

Eraqus continued to walk as he further elaborated. "I'm not saying you have to be completely on guard with him but some things are better kept unsaid. Like that page you told me about. With everything you told me about it was capable of...perhaps it's best my father didn't know about something like that."

 

Xehanort nodded agreeing that his actions were probably the best way to handle the situation for now.

 

"So what else did he want?" Eraqus asked.

 

"He offered to take me back home..back to the Islands," Xehanort responded.

 

Eraqus suddenly stopped walking a look of sadness, and disappointment crossing his face. "Oh...I suppose you would want to go home to your family... not much reason to stick around here..I mean I completely understand and-"

 

Xehanort held up a hand to stop Eraqus' rambling.

 

"Relax Eraqus I turned down the offer. To be honest I don't think he really wanted me to accept the offer rather he just wanted to see what choice I would make," Xehanort said.

 

A look of relief swept over Eraqus as his usual mischievous grin slid back on his face.

 

"Well that's cool not that anyone would miss your loud snoring," he said casually.

 

Xehanort gave Eraqus a playful shove. "Says the guy about to cry because he thought his best friend was about to leave."

 

Eraqus put his hands behind his head. "I don't know what you're talking about but I sure as hell wasn't about to cry." he said laughing.

 

Eraqus gave Xehanort a shove.

 

"Last one to the old training grounds has to do dishes tonight," he said, taking a head start.

 

The two boys took off out of the castle and raced off for the training grounds.

 

...

 

Several minutes later the two friends lay in a heaps of exhaustion having finally arrived at the training grounds.

 

"Looks like I win," Xehanort said.

 

"No way I totally got here first," Eraqus responded.

 

Instantly the two boys kipped up into combative stances.

 

"Tie breaker spar," they said simultaneously.

 

Eraqus went over to the trainer's shed and pulled out two practice swords. Tossing one to Xehanort, he faced his friend and took his battle stance. As always the two gave each other a bow of respect before charging into combat. The two friends rushed at each other, each preparing to strike, when suddenly they were interrupted by a blonde haired girl who, swiftly jumped between them. As Xehanort held back his strike to prevent himself from hitting her, she tossed him a wink. She then caught Eraqus' attack with her own practice sword. She used her blade to catch the hilt of Eraqus' and twisted it. Eraqus' sword immediately fell out of his hand clattering to the floor. She then gave Eraqus a light push knocking him softly to the ground.

 

"Sorry little bro but you had your fun-" She turned to Xehanort and pointed her sword at him. "-Now it's my turn to test the new guy."

 

Xehanort studied the girl, completely caught off guard by her presence. Eraqus had always mentioned he had an older sister, but since Xehanort had arrived, he had yet to meet her. She looked about Xehanort's age and was strikingly beautiful. She had long blond hair pulled back into a ponytail with a few stray bangs left hanging over her forehead. She wore a sleeveless button up of oriental style. Attached to the shirt was an ornately decorated, pale blue hood. She wore white finger less gloves, over long, black armsleeves that came up to her elbow. Two belt's crossed over her waist forming an X, the belts held two pouches on each side and hung over her skirt. The attire was finished off by knee length leggings and armored boots. Her look was admittedly a lot more modern looking then Eraqus'. It was a perfect combination of girly, and intimidating.

 

Xehanort looked into her piercing blue-green eyes, and it was there the real story was told. When Xehanort met with Eraqus' father, his eyes held an aura of power and confidence. This girl's eyes held the same aura, magnified by a hundred. Her eyes held confidence, intelligence, and a fiery burning passion, all twinkling simultaneously in their blue glow. She winked and slid on a mischievous smirk, identical to the one her brother frequently wore.

 

"Are you going to check me out all day or are we going to fight," she said rather bluntly, laughing at Xehanort's obvious discomfort.

 

Xehanort blushed, snapping out of his daze. He gave her a smile of his own, readying himself for combat. "Sure why not I could use some practice."

 

The girl merely laughed as Eraqus looked on with a worried look.

 

"Go easy on him Nadia," he said.

 

Xehanort took slight offense to the remark. He was unsure of what to expect, but she couldn't be much more of a threat then Eraqus if the two had trained together. Xehanort took his stance, and charged straight for Nadia hoping to catch her off guard. He quickly moved in swinging his sword in a downward arc. Nadia merely stood there unflinchingly. She easily caught the strike with her blade and knocked it away. Using the opening she ducked under Xehanort's second strike and elbowed him in the stomach before pushing him backwards, creating distance between the two. Xehanort quickly realized that his previous assumption about her skill level being no better then her brother's was wrong. Dead wrong.

 

Xehanort tightened his focus, as Nadia effortlessly volleyed a series of slashes that Xehanort had just barely managed to parry. Her speed with the weapon was impressive, wielding it with the skill of a seasoned master. Xehanort began pushing back her strikes with some of his own. His father had been training him in the art of swordplay since he was five. He wasn't about to dishonor his father's teaching by being easily defeated.

 

He began pressuring her with a flurry of fast strikes, trying to bait her to strike back. He let his guard down slightly, to give the false illusion that there was an opening she could take advantage of. Nadia took the bait and quickly jabbed her sword towards the opening. Xehanort took advantage of her momentum and used his blade to hook the hilt of her sword. He twisted his blade, loosening her grip on the sword, and then knocked it out of her hand with another strike. Nadia gave Xehanort a look of surprise as he moved in for the final strike. He jumped in the air and swung downward, preparing to finish the fight. Before he could land however, Nadia quickly performed a backwards cartwheel, completely dodging Xehanort's strike, which instead hit the ground. Just as quickly she surged forward and kicked Xehanort's sword out his hand, grabbing his arm in the process. She turned into him and using her body as leverage flipped Xehanort over her shoulder. Before Xehanort could even raise his head, her knee was at his throat.

 

"Checkmate, I win," she said with a wink.

 

Xehanort was impressed beyond believe, he had never seen someone with the skill level of her caliber. Not even his father, who Xehanort had long surpassed, matched Nadia's skill in combat.

 

Eraqus chuckled at Xehanort's expense. "Don't worry dude, Nadia is the best warrior in the entire school. She's even kicked our father's a-"

 

Nadia shot Eraqus a threatening look. "Don't be disrespectful little brother. Unless you would like go another round."

 

Eraqus put his hands behind his head.

 

"I'll pass, I still have bruises from our last sparring session," he said sheepishly. "Xehanort meet my sister Nadia. Nadia, this is Xehanort who by the way is doing dishes tonight."

 

Nadia looked back at Xehanort.

 

"Nice to meet you Xehanort," she said.

 

"Nice to meet you too... but can you get off me please," said Xehanort in constricted voice, as he still had Nadia's knee embedded in his throat.

 

"Oops," Nadia said with a laugh.

 

She got off Xehanort, offering him her hand to help him get up. Xehanort took it, noticing how nice it felt and how warm it was. He was also suddenly painfully aware of how sweaty his hands were. Once he got up, Nadia began circling around him, almost like a hawk studying it's prey.

 

"Hmmm good posture,-" She grabbed his bicep and gave it a squeeze."-excellent muscle tone,-" She playfully stroked her hand against his face, winking in the process. "-nice jawline."

 

Xehanort had little experience with women, but it was obvious that Nadia was a flirt, and was immensely enjoying making Xehanort squirm. She stopped circling Xehanort and looked toward her brother.

 

"You certainly found a decent recruit little bro, unlike the usual scrubs we have to deal with," she said.

 

She returned her attention to Xehanort.

 

"Sorry about the whole judo flip thing...that was the first time someone has ever disarmed me, so I kinda got carried away..." she said, trailing off.

 

Xehanort subconsciously rubbed his throat.

 

"That's okay I can see why no one's ever disarmed you. You're beautiful!" he said, before realizing what he actually came out of his mouth. "I mean you're amazing...I mean...uh very skilled."

 

Eraqus walked over to Xehanort and draped an arm around him "Geesh buddy do you always get this nervous around pretty girls. Relax Nadia is one of us-" he pulled Nadia under his other arm. "-We're going be three peas in a pod." He suddenly let them both go. "Although, that will probably start after Xehanort get's over the fact that he has to do both our dishes."

 

Eraqus, and Nadia burst into laughter. After glaring momentarily at them Xehanort also joined in. The three of them began heading back to the castle, enjoying the new bonds of friendship that the day had forged.

 

 

 

Chapter VII: The Kingdom Key

 

"The Keyblade. One legends says it's wielder brought peace to the world another says it destroyed it. "

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                      

 

After dinner, dish duty fell on Xehanort as according to Eraqus, he lost the tiebreaker spar. Though it was a technicality, considering Nadia's fight with him was unrelated to their bet. However Eraqus insisted she acted as a substitute for him. Xehanort took the punishment not seeing any real reason to argue the point. Rather reluctantly he set off to do the mountain of dishes the three friends had created. He had just started scraping off the dishes when Nadia surprisingly walked in.

 

"Mind if I help? she asked, picking up a dish and starting to clean it.

 

"Sure..though by the looks of it you didn't need my permission." Xehanort responded, laughing.

 

"Nope," Nadia said bluntly. "After all, technically speaking, my little brother didn't actually win the dual."

 

Xehanort nodded.

 

"True," he said.

 

The two continued to wash in an awkward silence. Finally Nadia broke the tension between the two.

 

"So who taught you swordplay?" she asked.

 

Xehanort smiled. "My father did..he started as soon as I was five," he said.

 

Nadia's face lit up in excitement.

 

"I started at four," she said smugly, sticking her tongue out.

 

"I had to beg and beg my father to allow me to learn. He had more...traditional ideas seeing as I was a girl." She slipped into what Xehanort assumed was recollection. "He would always argue that I was his first born and that swordplay was inappropriate for a young girl." Her face crumpled into a look of disgust.

 

"After he said that I told him to get his head out of the stone ages and give me a chance." She took the dishes they had finished washing and began drying them as she continued her story."I threw a giant temper tantrum for a week straight, not even my mom could calm me down. Finally after a week and a half of my ah...ruthless behavior, he finally decided to give me a chance."

 

Xehanort laughed at the determination of the girl, imagining a little blonde ball of energy, running around raising hell for her father. "Well at least he gave you chance."

 

Nadia nodded. "Unfortunately my father and Mentor Jensen made it really hard for me. Especially Jensen, who after discussing it with my father, threw me in with the Tier Two students which is a step below our highest ranked class."

 

Xehanort looked up in surprise. "And your father agreed to this?" he asked, passing her another dish to dry.

 

Nadia shrugged. "He didn't agree to it, but he didn't disagree to it either. He decided to let the cards lay where they fell. My mom was furious though."

 

She started stacking the dishes and putting them away.

 

"So basically they threw me into Tier Two and gave me two weeks to master the basics or I would be taken from the class. Needless to say those were two of the hardest weeks of my life. The training was intense and I was expected to keep up with everyone else. I practiced nonstop and even had a few sleepless nights. By the end of those two weeks the little girl who was expected to fail had not only mastered the basics but had earned the respect of every student in the class. Even some of Tier One students were impressed with my work ethic."

 

The two friends finished the remainder of the dishes and Nadia led Xehanort over to a nearby table. The pair sat down to resume their conversation.

 

"So at the end of the two weeks, there was a big showcase to present to my father all that I had learned. Of course having mastered everything he had asked me to, everything went smoothly. However Jensen wasn't satisfied with me simply me knowing the basics, even though that was what my task was. He picked a Tier One student and ordered me to beat him in a practice spar in order to 'prove' myself."

 

Xehanort frowned.

 

"This Jensen guy really is a stiff huh," he said, mimicking Eraqus' earlier description of Jensen.

 

"Yeah... he is most of the time." she said with a laugh.

 

"Anyway little did Jensen or my father know that I had my own trump card. My mom had secretly been prepared for that sort of scenario to play out. Every night, when everyone went to bed, she gave me private lessons. A lot of those lessons included strategies on defeating larger or more skilled opponents. So this kind of fight, while difficult, was right up my alley. Long story short, I took advantage of my opponent's arrogance. I managed to disarmed him, then beat him using the same judo flip I used on you today."

 

Xehanort gave a playful clap, impressed at her accomplishment. "Not bad for a four year. You got me beat can't say I did something like that when I first started."

 

Nadia laughed. "Hey don't be down on yourself. You're actually really good. Like I said you're the first person to ever disarm me, that alone takes a lot of skill. Your father must have been a skilled warrior if he was the one that taught you. " she said reassuringly.

 

Xehanort smiled gratefully at the praise. "Well I don't know about warrior, since my home world doesn't have any threats to speak of, but he was certainly a master swordsman. "

 

She narrowed her eyes. "So the rumors are true? You really are from another world?" she asked.

 

Xehanort nodded and after a half a second's consideration told her the entirety of his tale. Nadia paid Xehanort full attention as he regaled his story of escaping Destiny Islands. She reacted in all the right moments, particularly when he dove into the dark portal that brought him here.

 

"That was pretty brave of you," she said.

 

Xehanort gave a small laugh. "That's funny, your brother said it was a pretty stupid thing to do."

 

Nadia smirked. "Well I suppose it was a little reckless, but then again my brother is always...hesitant when it comes to being reckless."

 

Xehanort raised an eyebrow. "Are you implying he's a scaredy cat?" Xehanort asked.

 

Nadia continued to smirk.

 

"I'm not saying anything," she said slyly.

 

Xehanort burst out into laughter, to which Nadia soon joined in. Suddenly Eraqus poked his head into the room.

 

"What are you guys laughing about?" he asked suspiciously.

 

Nadia and Xehanort looked at each other and burst into another spurt of laughter. Eraqus grumpily left the room after sticking his tongue out at the two of them. Nadia let a long yawn before getting up from the table.

 

"Well I think it's time we headed to be bed we got a long day tomorrow," she said.

 

Xehanort gave her a questioning look.

 

"My father assigned you to join me and Eraqus in our lessons right?" she asked.

 

Xehanort nodded in response.

 

"Well we have lessons all day tomorrow with Mentor Jensen and his sessions start bright and early. My father told me I have to make sure you get there, so off to bed." Nadia said bossily.

 

Xehanort got up, rather perturbed at being told what to do by someone his age. He was about to leave when Nadia gave his arm a light squeeze.

 

"Goodnight Xehanort, I really enjoyed our chat," she said tossing him her signature wink.

 

With that she skipped from the room and headed to bed.

 

...

 

Xehanort was abruptly woken by a hard slap to the forehead.

 

"Wake up Xehanort!" said a female voice.

 

Xehanort groaned groggily, he rubbed his eyes, trying to wipe the sleepiness away. Not being accustomed to waking up this early, Xehanort quickly looked to see who had woke him up. Standing over him, with an impatient look on her face, was Nadia who was holding her half asleep brother by the scruff of his hood. Xehanort suddenly became aware that he was only wearing his boxers.

 

"Nadia what are you doing in here?" he asked, quickly covering himself with his blanket.

 

"I'm waking you up goof," she responded impatiently.

 

"You can't just barge into my room, ever heard of privacy, or at the very least knocking," Xehanort said.

 

Nadia simply rolled her eyes. "Xehanort I train with shirtless guys all the time, I used to bath this one-" she shook Eraqus, who wobbled like a rag doll. "-all the time when he was young. Needless to say, I've seen plenty of the male anatomy. Now get dressed, we have twenty minutes to get to Jensen's lesson, before he blows a gasket. I am not running an extra twelve miles because you two can't wake up on time."

 

She stomped out of the room, clearly annoyed.

 

"Geesh and I thought I wasn't a morning person," Xehanort said to himself.

 

"If you're not out here in the next ten minutes, I'll show you what kind of morning person I can be," said Nadia from the other side of the door.

 

Xehanort quickly got out of bed and got himself dressed. He then followed an irritated Nadia as she dragged her still half asleep brother to class.

 

...

 

If Xehanort had the impression that Mentor Jensen did not like before, today was the day it was officially confirmed. Despite their rough start the trio had actually arrived early to Jensen's lessons. However even though they were more then on time; Jensen wasted little time throwing Xehanort dirty looks. As Nadia had told Xehanort the previous night Jensen was the swordmaster of the castle. As also she explained there were three tiers within the class Tier One, Tier Two, and Tier Three. Tier Three consisted of young children and young teens, Tier Two was reserved for the older students who were far more progressed in the program. Tier One consisted of the best students of the program. The Tier held the least amount of students but they certainly were considered the fighting elite. Nadia, and Eraqus headed over to the Tier One portion of the class.

 

Nadia stopped and led Xehanort over to the Tier Two portion of the class. "Xehanort, I guess you'll start here for now."

 

She noted the look of distaste on Xehanort's face. "Look it's only temporary. It's just so it's easier for you to get adjusted to how things work here. I'm sure you'll get moved to Tier One easily with your skill level," she said reassuringly.

 

Xehanort reluctantly nodded. He headed over to the Tier Two students and was about to introduce himself when he was abruptly pulled backwards by Jensen.

 

"And where do you think you're going?" Jensen asked.

 

Xehanort nervously cleared his throat. "I thought I was to start in Tier Two," he said with a gulp.

 

Jensen let out a crude laugh."Oh no no no. I won't have our new celebrity in Tier Two. No, you'll be joining the Tier One students."

 

Nadia stepped forward. "But sir, shouldn't he get acclimated to how things are first I mean-"

 

Jensen held up his hand silencing Nadia's reservation. "My class is sink or swim Nadia. You either cope or you leave the class. You should know that better then anyone," Jensen said coldly.

 

With that he swept the pair towards the Tier Ones and began his training.

 

...

 

Xehanort learned quickly why there were so few Tier One students. All of them were at near peak skill level. The training to match their skill level was grueling, and extremely intense. They started with a ten mile jog as a warm up. They then proceeded onto calisthenics before finally reaching actual swordplay training. Xehanort silently thanked his father for his extensive training. Without it Xehanort would have been drastically behind the rest of the students.

 

As it turned out, despite Nadia's earlier reservations, Xehanort easily adjusted to the class training and his skill level was certainly on par with the rest of the group. He caught Nadia several times flashing him a wink of approval, as Xehanort skillfully completed several of the their training regimes. Even the other students seemed to approve of Xehanort after a while. The only one who seemed to disapprove of him, was Jensen who criticized him every chance he got. However Xehanort did not let that deter him, and continued on with the lessons, completing every single one. By the end of the class, everyone had clapped him on the back, welcoming him into the group with approval.

 

This however, was the final straw of Jensen's patience.

 

"Attention!" he shouted.

 

The group quickly got into standard formation.

 

"Xehanort step forward," said Jensen sharply.

 

Xehanort stepped ahead of his peers.

 

"You seem to fancy yourself one these warriors who stand behind you. I however, am not impressed. I want to see you apply what you've learned today. So today you'll be entering the Pit," said Jensen.

 

The rest of class gasped in outrage. Nadia, and Eraqus quickly stepped out of formation, both clearly angry.

 

"You can't do that Jensen, Xehanort's never fought a He-" Nadia started.

 

"Silence your tongue Nadia!" Jensen shouted, stopping her in mid-sentence. "This is my class and I will test my students as I see fit."

 

Jensen then proceeded to lead the group to a closed of area north of their training grounds. Once there, he pointed to a giant crater and told Xehanort to get in. Xehanort went in and Jensen waved his hands erecting a magic barrier around the pit. Xehanort waited, a sense of foreboding creeping up on him. It happened almost instantly, a wisp of darkness appeared to his left, and out of it popped a creature Xehanort had never seen before.

 

The creature was pure black with bright yellow eyes and had distinct antennas on it's head. Just as quickly, three more of these creatures appeared. Xehanort tensed, instinctively materializing his Aura Weapons. The creatures were still for a moment, when suddenly their antennas twitched in the direction of Xehanort, and they all turned towards him. Suddenly, one jumped into the air and attacked, while another attempted to ram him from the side. Xehanort quickly reacted and knocking the one who attempted to ram him to the side, where it forcefully slammed against the barrier Jensen created. He then used his other blade to cut the other creature down in midair. The third creature charged forward and Xehanort cast fire at it, causing to be temporarily stunned before Xehanort cut it down. The final creature had recovered from Xehanort's earlier blow and proceeded to attack. This time however Xehanort was ready and quickly destroyed it. Xehanort turned to the class who had erupted into applause and gave a thumbs up sign.

 

It was at that moment everything went bad. Suddenly a much larger portal of darkness opened, and out of it a gigantic version of the creatures Xehanort just fought appeared. It easily knocked Xehanort against the barrier with a single swipe of it's giant hand.

 

Xehanort could tell by the other students reactions, that this was not a normal occurrence. Even Jensen looked startled and worried. Xehanort even a heard one of his fellow students say something odd.

 

"How did a Darkside get in? I thought only Shadows could breach the barrier."

 

Jensen quickly tried to calm his students.

 

"Everyone calm down, I will take care of this," he said.

 

However Nadia pushed Jensen roughly out of the way. She held out her right hand and materialized a mysterious weapon that looked very familiar to Xehanort. The blade was silver and the edge had the shape of a key. The hilt was bright yellow and attached to it was a key-chain that bore a mouse like emblem on it. Swiftly Nadia slammed the key like weapon against Jensen's barrier, completely shattering it. With deadly precision and speed, she warped right through the creature, cutting it into dust and vapor.

 

She then rushed over to Xehanort.

 

"Are you okay?" she asked, worried.

 

"I think so. What is that?" he asked pointing to the weapon on her hand.

 

She held up the weapon. "This is my Keyblade, the Kingdom Key."

 

At those words Xehanort felt his exhaustion catch up to him as he passed out.

 

Edited August 27, 20169 yr by Robbie the Wise