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Chapter Text

Prince Sora and Princess Kairi were in a small house that they recently had constructed on the beach of Destiny Island.  They were on their honeymoon simply enjoying each other’s company. They just gotten married in a joyous celebration and the joining of two kingdoms.

Prince Sora was a brown haired man with blue eyes. He wears a very nice red outfit though it’s more traveling clothes that were light enough to walk around in. On his neck was his lucky necklace, it was a crown that had been given to him by his mother.

Kairi was a red haired blue eyed woman. She wore a pink dress that came down to her ankles. Like Sora’s it was a traveling outfit as neither wanted to wear anything too heavy. Clipped to a belt she wore was a sea shell keychain that she made when she was on the run. To her it was proof that in the darkest times you can find a little joy.

They had everything they ever wanted in this moment. Freedom from the evil and tyrannical King Xehonort and his dark kingdom, their friends happy and healthy, and most importantly each other.

It was the happily ever after that they dreamed of having for so long.

To celebrate Prince Sora had bought Destiny Island and built the house so that the two of them may have a place away from their royal duties. It was a modest house one where they would not need any servant to serve them while they were there. This truly leaves them away from the constant pressure of being a royal.

They simply just enjoyed the other’s presence. Staying in bed in the mornings, watching the sun set in the evenings, and counting the stars late at night.

It was perfect until a figure showed up behind them.

Roxas had been on the rode for several weeks now.

Roxas was a blonde hair man with blue eyes. He wore a white jacket with some black accents, and black to white genes. He also wore a crown necklace on his neck.

He’s been driving with no place in particular in mind. He got his high school  diploma but never got into college. So here he was driving a mini van that he gutted to hopefully greener pastures. He has enough money to go around for a few months considering he’s been saving up for so long.

Roxas did some small jobs when he was younger than went on working actual jobs as well to get more money. He was able to buy an old mini van for very cheap, and then he took out the back and put in an old mattress and cabinets that the orphanage didn’t use anymore. 

Yeah, you heard that right. Roxas is an orphan. He had nothing to his name, no future to look forward to, and no relationship to stay for. That’s why he’s traveling now, might as well find somewhere to go while he got nothing else to do. 

The only connection he had to anyone was a necklace on his neck and a keychain made of sea shells. He was found with both of these when he was younger and the director of the orphanage wanted Roxas to choose what to do with them.

Roxas seen a sign on the side of the rode, he’s entering a town called ‘Heartfield’.

Roxas never heard of a town like that but he might as well stop there to get something to eat. He’s been trying to get to the coast, just to see it. He lived in a city his whole life without being able to travel far. Might as well see if he likes the beach. 

Sora took out his sword, pointing it at the intruder while he kept Kairi behind him.

The intruder had medium length brown hair thats 

”How did you get here Dark Prince?”

The other man looked at the duo with indifference, ”Same as you did I believe.”

Kairi shook her head, “We would have spotted your boat. Try another excuse.”

The Dark Prince gave an eerie chuckle, “You caught me. I simply just portaled here.”

Sora glared, “So even with your master’s defeat you continue down your path.”

That was when the Dark Prince glared, “He hasn’t been defeated, not yet anyways. He will be back and you two will be sorry.”

It was Kairi’s turn to glare, “He disappeared in his own creation Terra, we had nothing to do with it.”

”Right, with you two being the one’s who faced him. I highly doubt that you had nothing to do with what happened.”

Sora gripped his sword tighter, “We didn’t, he let the darkness control him to the point that it got rid of him. We had nothing to do with that.”

”LAIR!!!”

Kairi held onto Sora tightly, “We would never lie about the darkness.”

Terra was now breathing hard, he didn’t expect either of them to bring up his master, Xehanort. They were both to ‘good’ to play a dirty trick like that. Or at least that’s what they like to believe. Terra knew the truth, they gotten rid of the only person he had left. Now they want to say he was the bad guy, not how it works.

”I didn’t come all this way to talk about my master. I came here to give you my wedding gift.”

Kairi glared, “We want no gift from you.”

”Ah, but I wasn’t invited to your wedding and you simply must have it.”

Sora had a look of anger on his face and he tilted his head, “And what gift is that.”

”No need to get hostile, I simply just wanted you two to have a great few days.”

Kairi gripped even tighter, “Enough stalling, what is this so called gift that you have for us.”

”Impatient. Tsk, tsk. Not very royal of you.”

Kari glared deeper, “You are the last person who gets to decide what’s royal and what’s not.”

”Well then, the gift. You see I was just giving you a warning of the inevitable.”

Sora glanced at Kairi confused, “What do you mean by inevitable.”

”Haha, I knew you would want the gift.”

Kairi did not see the humor in what her husband said, “Enough, tell us what the warning is for.”

“Very well, I have found a way to get rid of your Happily Ever After, and every one else’s. And I would soon make so no one would be happy.”

Sora looked at the Dark Prince confused, “How would you stop everyone from finding their happiness. That’s impossible.”

Terra had made a dark smile appear, “No it’s not, you see with the right determination you can do anything. Or do you not believe that, Prince Sora.”

”You use my own words against me now,” Sora raised an eyebrow. He said this to many people but usually if they were facing oppression, not if they were the oppressors.

”I was just doing what you taught me.”

Kairi jumped into the conversation, “You never answered how this would be possible.”

Terra gave a bone chilling smirk, ”I don’t plan to tell you that. I was only going to give you that one gift.”

Sora put his sword into an attack position, “YOU FIEND!”

“Bye, bye.”

With that Terra left through the dark portal waving to the now scared couple he felt proud of himself. 

On the other hand Kairi and Sora looked at each other, how would they be able to deal with this new threat. Xehanort had been hard enough to deal with but now this. The Dark Prince never showed himself, it made many believe that he would be like the original Good King Eraqus. Being adopted by the good king. But it seems like he’s every bit Xehanort. But this time they have no knowledge on how to beat him before he enacts his plan.

Roxas Finally got into the town and found a place to park. After doing that he walked around for a bit to find a diner or fast food place.

It looked like a regular town, not too small but definitely not big either. At least to him. He lived in the city for years, no town is bigger than all than that.

Eventually he found a place to eat called ‘Ice Palace’. Roxas went in and saw it was a seat yourself, so he went to the bar to sit.

When he got up there he looked around at the diner, it took the ice theme well here but it’s obvious with the paint is peeling off the walls that this is an older restaurant.

Before Roxas stayed in his musing any longer a voice took him out of it, “Hello, I’m Ienzo and I’ll be your waiter today. The soup of the day is Chicken Noodle, and the special is the meat loaf. Do you know what you want to drink to today.”

Roxas took a Quick Look at the man, he had bluish grey hair that covered his eye. Blue eyes and were a blue outfit that looks like every other waiter outfit.

”I’ll just take water, please.”

”No problem.”

Ienzo left probably to get his water. After looking at the menu and picking out what he wanted Roxas looked around the diner to watch the people.

There was a tall red headed guy in a police uniform, a man in a fishing outfit with silver hair, a child with gray hair, and a woman with pink hair.

Of course there was a few other people there but those were the ones that stand out the most. Mostly because he never seen hair color like that, he only seen blonde, brown, and dark red. Definitely not that flaming red color the tall man has.

When Ienzo came back he had the water, “Here you go. Do you know what you want to eat or do you need more time?”

”No, I know what I want. I’ll have the chicken tenders, please.”

”Coming right up.”

As Roxas waited for his food he didn’t notice the child with gray hair looking at him. He had a book with him and he looks like he has some sort of head ache as he looks at the blonde.

When Roxas’ food came out Ienzo couldn’t hold back his question anymore, “Are you new to town? I’ve never seen you before.”

”Kind of, I’m just passing through. Thought I would stop for lunch.”

”Well I’m happy that you stopped by. Though disappointed that you’re not staying. It’s quite dull in this town.”

“Sorry to disappoint, but I’m going where the rode takes me.”

“I wish I could do that, but my guardian barely lets me leave the house.”

Roxas chuckled a bit, “That sucks.”

”It does, anyways enjoy your meal.”

”Thanks.”

After he was done Roxas got the check and left. He didn’t want to pay more than he had to, he learned that when he was younger. 

Roxas went around town, saw an old clock tower, saw the beach, and even saw the city council office building.

Once he was done he went back to his car to leave the town. When he turned the key the engine didn’t start at all.

”No, No, No… don’t do this now,” Roxas mumbled.

When the car didn’t start Roxas let his head fall onto the steering wheel.

Sora and Kairi both went back to the castle early. Neither felt like they could finish the honeymoon after learning about the threat that Terra made.

The person who saw them first was their friend Riku. He’s been close to Sora since they were little kids. He vowed to protect the two of them for as long as he lived. He wore an old dark blue outfit though that might just be because he had the day off. Since he usually wore his knight uniform around the castle.

“What are you guys doing back? You’re not due for another two weeks.”

Sora looked at his oldest friend gravely, “Gather the counsel, we have terrible news that we must share.”

When Riku nodded and left, the two of them went to their chambers. Now they both needed to get serious about the new threat.

Roxas sat in his car until he heard someone tap on the glass. He was an older man, with blonde hair, blue eyes, and stubble on his chin. He wore goggles on his head and had a long toothpick in his mouth.

Roxas rolled down the window, “Yeah?”

”You okay kid? Your head is just sitting on the steering wheel.”

”Uh, yeah I’m okay. My engine just went out.”

“How about I look at it, I’m a mechanic so I know my stuff.”

Roxas looked hopeful at that, “Really, that would be really helpful.”

”No problem, though if there is something seriously wrong then I would have to take it to the shop to repair. And that would cost a pretty penny.”

Roxas looked like he’s been punched in the gut, “I’m not sure I could afford that.”

“I can work something out.”

With those final words the man went to the front of the car and popped the hood. He saw how old the engine is.

”Well that won’t do any good, the engine is so old that it probably stopped working. You might need a new one.”

”What, but it’s been working fine.”

“Don’t know what to tell you kid.”

Roxas once again groaned and hit his head on the steering wheel. 

The man decided to be pitiful today, “How ‘bout this, I tow it for free and you just pay what you can for the new engine.”

Roxas looked at the man with pain in his eyes, “I don’t have the money for that.”

”It’s either that or get a new car, but not many people are selling.”

”I’ll see what I can do.”

”If you decide to fix the engine then you’re going to need my card.”

The man handed the card to Roxas and when he looked at it he saw that it said ‘Conaro car repair’ and that the phone number was for Robert Conaro. Saying thank you and watching the man leave Roxas went to the dash board in the passenger side and looked at the amount of money he had. 

Roxas was already running out and with his car unable to move it means that he would have to stay in this town, at least until he gets his car up and running and more cash to use. Which means now he would have to find a job here.

Chapter Text

Riku gathered the council in record time, making sure everyone who was in the castle.

Riku stood next to Sora and Kairi, then around the table was, Aerith, Leon, Cid, Yuffie, Cloud, Tifa, then back to the royal couple.

Everyone in the room was arguing most going over each other trying to find fault in the Dark Prince’s words.

”How would he even do that?!”

”He’s the apprentice of Xehanort. Of course he’ll know how.”

“He’s threatening every single person in the whole enchanted forest, though.”

”A threat is a threat. We should still be cautious.”

”How would he be able to achieve this though?”

None of them were even listening to each other, wanting to put out their own right and wrongs of the situation. Riku looked over to his best friend of many years and saw that he was holding his crown necklace  in his hand.

”Is everything alright Your Majesty?”

Sora looked over and with the smallest and most uncertain smile he’s ever seen on his own face he answered, “No, but I know we’ll get through this. We already done this before surly he won’t be as bad.”

Kairi looked over to him, “How do you know?”

“I don’t but life is nothing without faith, and I have faith we can get through this.”

Cloud looked over to the three of them making sure the rest of the table stopped talking so he could speak.

”Before we do anything we need to know if this is true.”

Kairi nodded, “Yes, but we’ve been at a loss at how to do that.”

Cloud looked around, “We’ve got a ninja right at this very table, and if all else fails we can always go to him.”

When Cloud said the second part everyone practically jumped out of their seats. 

Riku was the one who spoke up though, “How could you ever suggest that?”

”If this threat is truly as great as the Dark Prince claims then we need as much help as we can get. I was only stating opinions.”

Leon interjected quickly, “But him? Are you suicidal?”

Aerith spoke in defense, “It’s just an option. We need all we can right now.”

Before the rest of the table could speak Yuffie spoke up, “I’ll go see what I can find, and we’ll go from there.”

Sora smiled softly to her, “Thank you Yuffie.”

”No problem.” 

Yuffie left before anyone could stop her.

Sora looked to the rest of them, “We would all start getting ready for the worst. Cid, go down to your workshop, Riku and Leon go to the knights, Tifa get as many weapons you can, Aerith we need as many magical supplies as possible, and Cloud-“

”I’m going to search for someone.”

“You can’t leave now!”

”I have to,” Cloud sighed as he left the room with everyone watching.

Kairi quickly pulled everyone from the set back, “Riku, instead of helping Leon you’re going to find a friend of ours.”

Everyone nodded and started to disperse from the room. Leaving Sora, Kairi, and Riku in the room to finish their debriefing.

Eventually Roxas found a small bed and breakfast. Going inside Roxas saw a petite girl with black hair.

“Hello, my name is Andi and welcome to ‘Clarision’s bed and breakfast’”.

“Hi, I need a room.”

”Excellent, and how long would you be staying with us.”

”Let’s say a week and we’ll go from there.”

”Well then, we have breakfast from six to eleven every day and here’s your room key.”

”Thank you ma’am.”

”No problem, happy to help.”

When Roxas took the key he went to his van which had been moved to the shop to collect his clothes and personal items. As he went back to the bed and breakfast he saw a news paper box on the side of the rode and figured he should get one to see if there are any jobs available since he was staying here indefinitely.

When he got to his room he put his clothes in the closet and drawers, put the rest of his stuff on the table, and finally looked at the news paper.

Which was boring, most was about the mayor making big investments to the local school or about the different businesses. Though he also saw something about a drunk driver sitting in prison for a night, so not all bad. Roxas wasn’t able to find a place looking to higher though. Which was unfortunate.

Figuring that he might need to go and see if there’s any help wanted signs would probably be better so he got a jacket and left.

So he walked around the town, saw a big clock tower, went to the city council building, saw the grocery store, the sheriff’s building, and even saw the docks.

Roxas saw a lot of sights in the city but what he didn’t see was any help wanted signs.

Dejected Roxas started to walk home. When doing that he bumped into a man with pitch black hair.

”Sorry.”

The man looked at him with yellow eyes that bore straight into his sole.

”It’s no problem, an accident is an accident. No harm done.”

”Yeah, ha, anyways-“

“I don’t believe I’ve ever had the honor of meeting you,” the man said with a gravely voice.

”Ah, no, you wouldn’t hav- I mean I just got into town. I’m Roxas.”

”Roxas you say, what a great name. I’m Dean Draco, but you can call me Mr. Draco.”

”Pleasure.”

”Where are you going in such a hurry.”

”I-I wasn’t in a hurry.” Roxas muttered before answering. “I’m currently looking for a job, but it doesn’t seem like anyone is hiring.”

”Oh, people haven’t hiring people for as long as I remember.”

”That doesn’t sound plausible.”

”I may just be living in my own world then. I can never tell. Anyways, where did you get that necklace? It looks exquisite.”

Roxas looked confused as he lifted the necklace slightly, “This old thing? It’s a family heirloom.”

Technically Roxas doesn’t know that, but it’s one of the only things he has from his birth family. He doesn’t want others to know that though.

Mr. Draco looks him up and down and then says, “Interesting, if you ever need to get it off your hand why don’t you come to my shop and we’ll handle it.”

”Ah- wha-what is your shop.”

”It’s Mr. Draco’s antique shop.”

”I-I guess that makes sense, have a good day.” Roxas said before rushing away from that guy.

Roxas hear behind him, “You too.”

Kairi was pacing in the garden looking anxious.

She had a flower in her arm as she waited for her husband to return from his talk with Riku.

Who just got from his mission. It’s been a month since the initial meeting but they’re not making as much progress as they need to. The weapons, magical items, and making tools were coming in very slowly and training the army for something you don’t know yet is difficult. Yuffie hadn’t been able to get close enough to learn the needed information.

Riku seemed to have good news from their friend but even that seems to still need time.

Kairi saw Sora make his way across the garden looking a little relieved. Not in the situation but at the small bit of progress made.

When Sora reached her he smiled, “They’re willing to help us look for a solution. Though it might be a little bit before they’re able to help.”

Kairi nodded but look dejected despite having to good news.

Sora of course noticed his wife’s dejected demeanor immediately, “Is everything alright, my love?”

“Sora,” Kairi’s voice was somber as she dealt with the storm inside your mind, “I think there might be another problem.”

”What is it Kairi? Are you okay?”

Kairi looked away back to the flower in her hand unsure of how to continue, “I-I believe that the situation just got worse.”

Sora looked confused as he tried to get Kairi to look at him, “Worse? How?”

”Sora, I’m pregnant.”

Sora face had a mixture of multiple expressions. He looked terrified, he looked relieved, he looked confused, and he most of all looked thrilled.

”That’s wonderful, we must have a celebration.”

Kairi shook her head, “We can’t, it’s too dangerous.”

Sora looked at her with understanding but he said, ”We can’t in fear. Terra can’t know that we’re afraid.”

”But I am afraid. Now we’re bringing someone who’s innocent into the fray as well. The child could be killed, they could be used against us. How can we not feel afraid?”

Sora hugged her, he knew that she was far more afraid than before but he also knew that letting themselves fear every possible outcome would spell disaster for them and their future child.

”I know, but if we go down that route then we would never be able to come out.”

“You’re not taking this seriously!”

“I am Kairi, but we can’t stop everything. Terra isn’t being reasoned with and if we worry ourselves to the ground then we can’t fight. We would be giving everything up to hide in fear. Do you want to live in fear of being found?”

Kairi looked to the ground, “No, I don’t. But how can we fight what we don’t know?”

”The same way we always do,” Sora said with a smile, “We have faith and we trust each other.”

Roxas found a nice park to sit at for a while. It wasn’t big but the path looked nice and there was a little mountain to walk up. 

He was at a lost, how would he be able to pay for his car to be fixed? No one here needed any help, not even Mr. Conaro who said they don’t get enough cars in the shop to justify the help.

Basically he was finding nothing and he knows he can’t live in the hotel for ever. He would be on the streets with a car that can’t run at all.

As he was sitting there in the corner of his eye he saw a sliver haired child with blue eyes come up to him.

Once he stopped in front of him the child held out his hand, “Hello, I’m Charlie.”

Unsure how to proceed Roxas followed suit, “Roxas.”

”Are you new here?” Charlie asked innocently.

”Yeah”

”Do you like it here?”

The boy was watching him intensely, not unlike Mr. Draco but this time it was in pure interest.

”Yeah, I guess. I only got here yesterday.”

“That’s so cool. I’ve never been out of this town.”

”Cool,” Roxas nodded before looking around, “Are you here by yourself?”

”Yeah, I wanted to get out.”

Roxas looked amused at that, ”Out? You’re what ten?”

Charlie looked embarrassed as he glared at the ground. “I shouldn’t be.”

Roxas raised an eyebrow, “You shouldn’t be?”

”I should be older.”

”Sure…what are you doing here anyways?”

That seemed to make the kid brighten up, “I saw you earlier, I was curious of who you are.”

”Oh,” Roxas said breathlessly surprised by what he said.

Charlie nodded, “Yeah, I’ve never seen you and I’ve seen everybody.”

Roxas nodded, “So you wanted to talk?”

”I wanted to know how you found this town.”

”How I found the town?”

Charlie nodded enthusiastically, “Yeah, not many people come here so I was curious.”

”Well I just drove my car.”

”That’s it?”

Roxas nodded, “That’s it, and now I’m low on cash. So I’ll be here for a while.”

That somehow made the kids face brighten, “Really?”

Roxas leaned back, “Yeah, I need money to continue moving.”

”Well I know someone who could use the help.”

Roxas looked confused, “You just happen to know someone who needs help?”

Nodding enthusiastically, Charlie continues, “I go watch him work every so often, I like going on his boat. He says that he could always use more help.”

Roxas raised an eyebrow, ”This guy with a boat?” 

“Yeah,” Charlie started to pull Roxas’ arm, “I can show you.”

Roxas didn’t want to meet a random person that knew this random child but he was desperate so he let the child pull him to the man’s place of work.

Sora paced outside the room, they had Selphie and Olette check Kairi out.

It’s been several months and they still don’t know anything about Terra. On top of that the baby is coming along no matter what. 

It leaves very few options that may force the royal couple to jump to step two of the plan. They couldn’t risk the baby, they should be able to grow up free of worry but now they don’t know what could happen to their baby.

As Sora paced back and forth he saw someone pop in on the corner of his eyes. His friend finally made an appearance.

A small cat like creature was in the room looking as though they were out of breath.

”King Sora, King Sora!”

”Chirithy, you finally came.” Sora said in relief as he slumped down.

”Yes, and I have found multiple things on Terra.”

That popped Sora up immediately as he demanded, “What things?”

”He’s in leagues with origination. They’ve been working together.”

Sora’s eyes widened. Being with the origination was practically suicidal. He tried to calm his racing heart, “He is?”

”Yes,” Chirithy nodded gravely, “What their planning is still unknown but we know it has backing.”

Before Sora could speak he saw the door to the room open, Selphie and Olette stepping out.

Selphie looked relieved, “Everything is fine, with her pregnancy. Though her stress  is starting to take a toll on her health I would suggest to keep her as calm as possible.”

Sora nodded then looked at the room unable to speak up.

Olette noticed and nodded her head, “You can go in now Sora. She’ll need your support for the end of the pregnancy.”

Sora nodded and left the three of them in the hallway thinking about when the baby would come.

Roxas was finally back to the docks where he sees a few people working. Though most of them were pretty old and looked close to falling over.

Charlie though, went to the one person who was about the same age as him, maybe a year or two older. That was when Roxas realized he didn’t even ask Charlie about his name. Scratch that, he didn’t ask Charlie anything.

The man was working on fixing a fishing rod as they approached. He was about Roxas’ height with striking blue eyes. He had a red shirt and blue fishing pants on. He wore an easy going smile as he hummed a song under his breath.

He looked up and noticed that he had company coming towards him. He put down his tools as he wiped his hands on the towel.

Charlie was practically jumping up and down as he was yelling, “I found you more help!”

The man chuckled, “Charlie convinced you to come down here?”

When Roxas nodded the man kept going, “He does that often, he really wants to get me some help.”

Roxas raised an eye brow, “Oh, does he now?”

”Yeah,” the man chuckles as he ruffles Charlie’s hair, “Something about finding the right person.”

Roxas eyes both of them, “Seems like he cares about your job a little too much.”

”Probably.”

Roxas then shrugged, “Anyways, do you have an opening?”

The man laughed, “We can always use the help, especially from someone younger.”

”Then I’m your man. Name’s Roxas.”

The brown haired man had a big smile, “Hi Roxas, I’m James Anderson.”

Chapter Text

Sora was pacing back and forth in the garden once again. Unable to comprehend what they are learning. Chirithy may be had sneaking around in the organization’s headquarters but they have yet to get anything useful. They got that they would be going to another world but nothing else. It makes it hard to even come close to figuring out what was going on. 

Sora was going out of his mind trying to come up with a plan. They can’t go in randomly as Terra is still royalty. He has an entire army at his disposal. They can’t attack the organization as they are too powerful. It leaves Sora at a loss. Not long he wouldn’t care about the power the others had, but now he has everything to loose. He can’t leave Kairi or his unborn child alone like that.

“Well you look like someone took your favorite dessert from you.”

Sora jumped as he turned around to see who snuck up on him. He saw black hair and yellow eyes and immediately knew who it was.

”Vanitas,” he growled, as he glared at the intruder.

Vanitas put his hands up, “No need to get so hostile.”

Sora calmed down, it was no use being angry at the dark one. No matter what he always comes out on top.

Sora took a deep breath, “What are you doing here?”

Vanitas came closer to Sora, “I came to see how you’re handling the news, Your highness.”

Sora glared at Vanitas, knowing that it was more than that.

Vanitas seeing the glare sighed, “I was wondering if you wanted to make a deal.”

Sora snorted, “With you? Never.”

“Not even to help your precious child?”

Sora froze, “What about my child?”

Vanitas smirked, “I’ll tell you this for free, but anymore information would cost you.”

Sora narrowed his eyes, “Then I don’t want it.”

Vanitas’ smirk grew wider, “But I’ll tell you anyways, your son would be involved with everything in the future.”

Sora looked as though he’d been crushed as soon as Vanitas finished his sentence, “I-I said I didn’t want to know.”

Vanitas started making his own dark portal as he said, “I told you, that piece was for free. I’ll leave for now, but call for me if we have a deal.”

Sora ran towards the portal trying to catch Vanitas but he was already gone. Leaving Sora in the garden once again.

Roxas followed James Anderson to a table close to the docks.

James looked him over before asking, “So Roxas, you ever worked with fish before.”

Roxas looked embarrassed, “Not particularly, but I have worked at many different places. Like fast food and babysitting.”

”That’s not exactly what happens here, you know.”

Roxas face heated up, “I know but I really need a job.”

James laughed, “Well I can’t leave someone who needs something. But this job might not be what you’re expecting.”

Roxas practically fell out of his seat, “Please, I can do anything you need me to do. Learning how to do something is just a curve I can overcome.”

James laughed again, “You would be stuck in here. Just so you know. We don’t need more fishermen.”

“I can do that.”

James shook his head, “You certainly are more excited than the others Charlie brings. I’ll bring you on for a week as a trial run, you would get paid of course but if it’s not a fit for you think we can’t have you.”

“Thank you, Mr. Anderson, sir.”

James looked uncomfortable after the words were out of Roxas’ mouth, “Just James is fine.”

Roxas once again looked embarrassed, “Are you sure?”

James smiled, a small but amused one, “Yeah. Meet me here tomorrow at ten sharp, I’ll start teaching you then.”

”Thank you, si-James.”

”No problem, but I have to get back to work. So I’ll see you around.” James said as he got up and started head over to the crates behind him. 

Before Roxas could get up, James turned back around and moved goodbye. He then passed Charlie and ruffled their hair.

Charlie ran up to Roxas when James left. They were practically jumping out of their skin with excitement.

”How was it? Did you get the job?”

Roxas grabbed both of their shoulders as he spoke, “I got a trail run.”

”Yes, I knew you were it. James never gave trail runs before.”

Roxas raised an eyebrow, “Oh really, I thought you brought others here for a job as well?”

Charlie waived their hand in a ‘whatever’ motion, “Well they never gotten farther than the interview. So obviously they weren’t the ones.”

Roxas looked confused at the kid in front of him, “Right one for what? Hauling fish?”

Charlie shook their head violently, “No! To help the town.”

”Help the town, by selling fish?”

Charlie looked taken aback at that, “Again no! By getting everyone to remember who they were before.”

Roxas laughed weakly, “Remember who they are?”

Charlie had a serious look on his face, ”Yes, and where they came from.”

Roxas smile became forced as he tried to understand them, ”What like what country they came from? Because I doubt they all came from the same place.”

”No,” Charlie looked at Roxas like he was being an idiot, “They all came from a different world.”

Roxas nodded a long, “Got it, and what world would that be.”

Charlie looked excited when he asked, “I’m so happy you understand.”

Roxas probably should have stopped this before the child started to pull him to who knows where, but it’s too late now.

Sora ran inside to tell Kairi what happened. She may be taking it as easy as she can right now but that didn’t mean she wanted to not be told about what is currently happening.

Once he got there Sora saw her with Olette, Selphie, and Riku. They were helping her get more comfortable in their room. Once Kairi saw Sora though she knew something happened.

”Sora what’s wrong?”

The other three in the room turned to look at the prince. Riku immediately went up to him after he saw the look on his face, helping him into a seat that Olette took out.

Sora looked at those around him before taking a deep breath, “Vanitas came by while I was in the garden.”

All around him he heard the room stop, he looked up and saw Kairi holding her stomach, and the other three holding the hilts of their swords.

Sora continues, “He’s gone now, but he told me something that I think you need to know Kairi.”

Kairi looked as though she was about to burst out of the room to find the Dark One, “What did he say.”

Sora looked her in the eyes as he said with no emotion in his voice, “He said, ‘your son would be involved with everything in the future.’ Not the warning I want about our child.”

Kairi held her hands to her mouth shaking her head, “No, no, no. He must be mistaken.”

Riku looked down as he told the princess, “We both know that Vanitas doesn’t lie to get what he wants. He just omits the truth.”

Selphie turned to Sora, “That’s what he’s doing now, isn’t it?”

Sora nodded, looking down to his lap.

Olette looked thoughtful, “He knows more than he’s letting on them. How though?”

Riku shook his head, “No one knows. Which begs the question why he would come to us?”

Sora looked at him, “You think there’s more to it?”

Riku nodded, “Why tell us he knows something? It’s like he doesn’t want them to succeed.”

Kairi shook her head, “He helped them before. Vanitas only cares about making a deal, if one has a better deal then he follows that route.”

Olette looked thoughtful, “So we have something he wants. Something Terra or the Organization doesn’t have.”

Selphie looked around, “But what though? In case you all forgot, playing on his terms is a bad decision. As of right now though, he has all the cards and we have nothing.”

Sora thought about it, “Why don’t you three go talk to Chirithy about this. He might be able to provide insight.”

Riku was about to fight the decision but he saw Sora’s downcast look. Sora wanted some time alone to talk to Kairi. So he just nodded and left with Olette and Selphie not too far from behind him.

Sora looked over at Kairi when the door shut, “I know we wanted it to be a surprise.”

Kairi looked at him before looking down, “I don’t care about that, as long as he can be healthy and safe.”

Sora looked solemn as that, “We’re trying everything we can, but they seem to be miles ahead of us.”

Kairi finally looked up completely, “Sora I think we have to talk to him.”

Sora looked worried, “Kairi, we can’t-“

Kairi shook her head, “We have to Sora, if he knows something then we have to try.”

“We don’t know what would happen, or what the price is.”

Kairi looked determined, “I don’t care, it may be the only way to save our son.”

Sora sighed in defeat, “Alright. Vanitas, I want to make a deal.”

Eventually Roxas and Charlie made it to an old tree house. Roxas followed Charlie up to the top of it and sat down beside him.

Charlie was bouncing up and down, “This is my secret hideout. No one knows where it is.”

Roxas looked at the structure he was sitting on, “Gotcha, so what is it you wanted to show me.”

Charlie got up and went to some old sacks that were up there, he eventually pulled out the an old book. Charlie then came back to Roxas and gave him the book as they sat down. Roxas looked at the cover and read ‘The kingdom’s heart’. Opening it, it showed pictures on one side that looks like it was made from paint and words on the other side. It looked like a regular children’s book.

Charlie started speaking when he noticed Roxas not saying anything, “Everyone in the book is in the town.”

Roxas raised an eyebrow, “I’m sure that whoever wrote this just took inspiration from the town.”

Charlie shook their head, “This book is very old, but the people in the book look exactly like the people of this town.”

Roxas looked at the kid, he didn’t want to break his spirits, “And say I believe you, who cursed everyone.”

Charlie looked thrilled at the idea that someone beloved them, “That would be the Dark Prince Terra. He wants revenge on Kairi, the princess of heart, for destroying his master.”

Roxas looked through the pages, until he spots a read headed woman, “Really, and who are they based on?”

Charlie glared at him for his phrasing but answered, “They are both the mayor and the secretary at city council.”

Roxas nodded, “Got it? Who was the person I met today?”

Charlie brightened up at the question, “That would be Prince Sora. He’s a guardian of light.”

Roxas looked over to Charlie, “So it was important to meet James because he’s a guardian.”

Charlie looked at him in bewilderment, “No, it was important to meet him because he’s your father.”

Roxas choked on his saliva when he heard that, “My father?”

Charlie nodded with a serious look on his face, “Your parents are Kairi and Sora. They needed to keep you safe so they sent you here.”

Roxas didn’t like the way Charlie said that with a straight face, “We’re almost the same age kid. Besides if ‘Kairi’ is a secretary then did she even meet James.”

Charlie looked down to his lap, “Not in this life, but they knew each other before the curse.”

Roxas rolled his eyes but made sure Charlie didn’t see him do that, “And what, I’m supposed to pretend to be their missing son.”

Charlie looked up quickly, “Wha-No! That would make you seem crazy. You just have to break the curse.”

Roxas nodded before asking, “Wouldn’t the curse already be broken since I’m here.”

Charlie almost got up at that question, “Curses don’t work like that. You have to break it somehow not just show up.”

Roxas held up his hand, “Just checking.”

Before Roxas could continue Charlie got up, “Read it tonight then meet me here tomorrow. That way I can explain to you the plan.”

Roxas tried to stop Charlie but he ran away too fast. Charlie, I never agreed to this!”

It was too late Charlie already left and he wasn’t turning around.

Behind Sora was a familiar sound of a portal opening then closing.

”That didn’t take you long at all.”

Before Sora could say anything Kairi spoke up, “We want this to be on fair terms, what would you have us trade you.”

”Ah, ah, ah. I’m afraid that’s not how this works. The desperate ask for something and then I come back to collect.”

Sora glared at him, “Before we continue, why would you help us?”

”Lets just say the organization isn’t my favorite thing.”

Kairi looked at him hard, “You want them to fail?”

”Not particularly, but I don’t want them to succeed either. That answer your question.”

Sora mumbled out, “Barely.”

Vanitas sighed, “Look, I don’t have all day,  so do we have a deal or not?”

Kairi in desperation immediately answered, “Deal what is everything you know.”

Vanitas smiled, “This curse is one of old, from thousands of years ago. I don’t know who made it but it’s meant to bring everyone to a place that wouldn’t let them have a happy ever after.”

Sora looked at him with a hard look, “What place?”

Vanitas just shook his head, “I’m afraid I do not know your highness. Anyways, many years ago Xehanort found the curse once again but never used it. He gave it to a companion of his. One who’s in the organization, once he disappeared they went to Terra with the curse.”

The information didn’t help Kairi calm down, “How can we stop it?”

Vanitas shook his head, “I’m afraid we can’t. Not with all the protection that’s around the curse, we can’t curb it either. But we can break it.”

Sora and Kairi perked up at that last sentence both question hopefully, “We can?”

Vanitas groaned, “Couples,” then spoke up louder. “Well not us, but that child inside you.”

Sora got up with his sword out, “You want us to use our own child.”

Vanitas didn’t flinch, “To help the whole world? Yes. Aren’t heroes supposed to think of the greater good?”

Kairi shook her head, “Not like that. How could we use our child like that?”

Vanitas shook his head, “It’s the only way.”

Sora’s whole body shook, “No, there has to be another way.”

Vanitas sighed, “I told you all I know, so now you hold up your end.”

After you told us our child would have to fight our battle.”

”The deal was, I told you what I know you do something for me. I made no promises on protecting you or your child.”

Before Sora could continue the argument Kairi spoke, “What did you want?”

Vanitas straightened up, “I simply wanted the child’s name.”

Kairi looked conflicted at that, but Sora had one more question, “When would he be back?”

Vanitas frowned at the interruption, “I believe sometime after eighteen years.”

Sora’s shoulders slumped, “Eighteen years, we’d miss his whole life.”

Kairi eyes shook but she straightened up to complete the deal, “Roxas, our son’s name is Roxas.”

Vanitas smiled once again as he made the portal again to exit the room, “Excellent, it was a pleasure making a deal with you.”

Vanitas left Sora and Kairi in their room looking at each other in worry.

Roxas was at the dollar store seeing if there was something he could eat, while he was browsing the isle he accidentally bumped into someone.

Looking over he immediately got up and then helped the woman he bumped into up. 

“I’m so sorry, I didn’t see you there.”

The redhead just laughed, “That’s okay, I didn’t see you either. See no harm now foul.”

Roxas sighed in relief, “Good, you looking for a quick meal too?”

The woman nodded, “It was a long day today, and I just want to eat something quickly.”

Roxas laughed slightly reaching his hand out, “Same, names Rroxas. Yours?”

The woman took it, “My name is Ashley. It’s nice to meet you. Are you new in town, I never seen you before.”

”Ah, yeah. My van broke down so I had to stay. Right now I’m in a hotel until I can get somewhere better to stay.”

Ashley looked surprised by that, “Oh, if you ever need somewhere else to stay why don’t you call me. I can help you find somewhere.”

Roxas blushed, “Oh, thank you. I’ll think about it.”

Ashley gave him a card, “I will love to help you get settled in. But right now I need to get home.”

Roxas laughed weakly, “Well it was nice meeting you anyways. I won’t want to be bother too soon though.”

Ashley started leaving the isle at that point, “Nonsense. I love helping people out. It was nice meeting you Roxas.”

Roxas waved bye as he said, “You to Ashley.”

Once he was done getting several things of ramen Roxas went back to the bed and breakfast.

He put the book on the table, and made his food. Then back to the table he read the book as he ate.

Chapter Text

Sora and Kairi told the table about what Vanitas told them. The table took it as well as they thought they would. Which to say not well at all, they started talking over each other almost immediately trying to find fault in what Vanitas said. None were coming up with anything useful at all.

Riku couldn’t take the yelling anymore, “Everyone shut up!”

Sora gave a small nod to Riku, “Thank you, Riku. We don’t have time to find fault with this. We need to start finding solutions.”

Leon shook his head, “We know nothing of this curse. We going to be forcefully moved from our homes into an unknown world. None of us even gotten close to the Dark Prince’s castle. What solutions could we get that would stop this at all?”

Cid looked apologetic at the couple, “He’s right. Without any details means we go in blind. We would loose no matter what.

Aerith looked at the two of them, “So we don’t fight at all?”

Leon shook his head, “I didn’t say that, just that we would loose if we try to fight now.”

Yuffie looked thoughtful, “Why don’t we focus on getting you two to safety instead?”

Kairi looked up to her, “What?”

”Think about it, with you two safe you can eventually come back to us and get the rest of us to safety while still raising your child.”

Sora shook his head, “We can’t leave you all here.”

Tifa shook her head, “I actually get what Yuffie is saying. It would be a tactical retreat until you’re able to get back to the rest of us. If what Vanitas said is true then we can do nothing now, but we can do something in the future.”

Cloud looked at them, “Think about it, once you decide we would go into immediate action trying to get you two out.”

Sora and Kairi nodded though both looked down at the thought that they might have to leave everyone behind.

Roxas woke up a seven in the morning after a ruff night. He moved his reading to his bed after he ate but the bed was different than what he was used to. The book was entertaining but he didn’t see Charlie’s vision when it came to the characters and the people in the town.

Roxas decided to take a shower and put on his nicer clothes. By nicer it meant the only clothes he has that fit, don’t have wholes, and don’t have stains. Which is few and far between.

Once he was done he ate some mini doughnuts that he found yesterday at the store. He ate that and watched Tv until it was time to go. 

One it hit nine Roxas left the room and went to his first day at the docks. Once he got there he saw James already there working on the inventory for the day.

”Hi, James.”

James jumped slightly but turned around with a smile on his face, “Hey, Roxas. You came back.”

Raising an eyebrow Roxas said, “Yeah, why wouldn’t I?”

”Half the people who are your age realize they don’t want to be here.”

Roxas paused, “Oh, what about the older folks?”

James gave a bitter smile, “They are great, but not the workers we need. Also they mostly stay to themselves.”

”Ah, well I’m here so what should I do?”

James bounced over to Roxas grabbing his arm, ”I’m going to show you how to catch fish.”

”Roxas let himself be pulled knowing he is in charge, “Really? Wouldn’t I need a day or two learn what this job is about?”

James smiled back at him, “We catch fish and then sell them. But since we’re younger and more physically fit we get to do the more demanding jobs.” When James saw Roxas nod he continued, “I think the best way to learn is by doing it, so I am going to show you what is needed. Besides if you continue working here after the week  I would be on the boat with you anyways.”

Roxas was slightly shocked, “That’s laid back.”

James nodded, “We get to spend the day on the sea, the others work on inventory and selling. Once we’re done here though we would have to do the box moving because they refuse to do that.”

Roxas looked confused, “Why?”

James shrugged, “They don’t want to break their backs. They do fill up the crates but we need more people to work regardless of what they do.”

”Then I’m here to help.”

James gave a big smile, “That’s great. Then all you have to do is listen to me.”

They got onto the boat and James showed him how to drive it, though he didn’t let Roxas touch the wheel. They spent the day laughing and talking about themselves on the boat while they fished. After a few hours they finally went back to the docs.

Once they were there they took the fish out and gave it to the men as they went on their lunch break.

James seemed to have something on his mind, “Why did Charlie bring you here?”

Roxas shrugged, “He thinks I can help with something. I don’t really get what he wants me to do here.”

James tilted his head to the side, ”How does he think you’ll help?”

”He thinks everyone is book characters, and that I can save them.” Roxas shook his head, “Like I, a random kid in a van, could save a town.”

James laughed, “Charlie gets something in his head and doesn’t let it go. Good luck Roxas.”

”Thanks…”

James threw away his food with Roxas following behind him, “We should get back to work. How about later we get dinner together at ‘Ice Palace’.”

Roxas smiled, “I’m down.”

James smiled as they went back to work loading the fish onto the different trucks.

Kairi was looking out the window worriedly when Sora walked in looking upset.

When Kairi saw Sora come in she immediately asked, “Where did you go?”

Sora sighed, “I went to see Chirithy. I was hoping they would have better ideas than we did. They didn’t and now I think they are finding us a way to escape the curse.”

”Without the other’s,” Kairi asked with tears welling up in her eyes, “We can’t do that.”

Sora didn’t look much better as he looked to the ground, “It seems like everyone thinks it’s the only way. We might have to let this happen.”

Kairi shook her head, “We would be leaving everyone here to suffer our problems. Terra wants us not them, but he refuses to see reason. Not to mention we would be dooming our own son.”

Sora looked pained as he said, “Don’t think about it as dooming him. He would have a better life than what the curse would let him. We would be giving him his best chance at surviving.”

Kairi didn’t look convinced, “So that’s it, we leave and everyone else gets to suffer.”

”They will be saved Kairi, but there is nothing we can do to save them when we would be in the same situation as them.

Kairi couldn’t argue anymore, logically she knew Sora didn’t want this to happen as much as she didn’t but right now she couldn’t think of it like that.

In the silence they both jumped when they heard a knock on the door.

Riku’s voice called in, “Sora, Kairi, Chirithy came back saying they have a solution.”

Sora looked at Kairi before answering, “We’ll be right there.”

Once he said that he turned to Kairi, “I don’t want to do it either, but sometime we have to make the hard choices to help the whole kingdom.”

He held his hand out and Kairi took it knowing that there was nothing else they could do.

Once they were done for the day, James and Roxas walked to ‘Ice Palace’. It was quiet but not awkward. Once they got to the Diner they sat down at a booth and ordered drinks for themselves. 

While they waited both James asked about Roxas’ family.

”Oh-uh”

Quickly back peddling James tried to change the subject, “You don’t have to answer if you don’t want to.”

Roxas rubbed the back of his neck, “It’s not that. I’m an orphan, so I don’t know my family.”

James face went sad, “I’m so sorry. I won’t bring it up again.”

Roxas tried to go onto something lighter, “What about your family?”

James froze when that was asked, “My family?”

Roxas nodded and prompted him to continue.

”I haven’t seen them in so long, I’ve need alone for as long as I remember.”

Roxas looked at James confused, “what do you mean? Were you also an orphan?”

James put his head into his hands, “No, I grew up with them but we fell apart after I turned 18. It’s been so long since I seen them.”

Roxas face lit up in understanding, “Oh, so it’s just been a few years since you saw them.”

”James shrugged looking slightly hurt, “No I don’t think so. I can’t remember the last time I saw them.”

Roxas looked confused, “How ‘bout you try giving them a call. Just check in.”

Like a switch James smiled, “You know that’s a good idea. Thanks.”

”No problem.”

Roxas looked behind James and saw a familiar face, “Hey Ashley.”

Ashley jumped slightly but turned around with a smile, “Roxas you surprised me.”

Roxas held up his hand in surrender, “I’m sorry.”

Ashley shook her head, “It’s fine.” She looked over to James, “Sorry, that was rude of me, I’m Ashley.”

James looked caught of guard as he stared at Ashley, “Uh-ow!”

After being shell shocked Roxas kicked him to get him to start talking again, “I’m James, it’s nice to meet you.”

Ashley smiled, “You as well. Roxas are you settling in Okay?”

Roxas nodded, “I am. Though eventually I’m gonna need an apartment. Hotels aren’t really my thing.”

”It’s like I said, just give me a call.” Ashley smiled before waving, “Anyways I have work I need to finish so I’ll take my leave now. Bye Roxas, bye James.”

Roxas waved back, “Bye Ashley.”

James had been staring at her the whole time finally snapped out of it, “Oh-uh, Bye Ashley. I hope I can see you again.”

”Same to you, James.” Ashley turned around and left the Diner leaving James to watch her. Roxas watched James very amused.

Roxas cleared his throat, “Love at first sight?”

James immediately denied that, “No, no, no. Besides she probably just saw me as the very weird guy.”

Roxas shrugged “I don’t know, she seemed to like you enough.”

James hid his face in his hand in embarrassment, “Stop, please.”

Luckily for James food came not to long after so Roxas stopped the teasing. They ate mostly in silence but like before it felt just right.

At the end of the meal James got up, “I have to go, since I get up earlier than you. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

Roxas waved bye to James as he left, before Roxas is able to get up someone else snuck up on him.

Sora and Kairi made their way down to the meeting room, unsure about what is going to happen.

Once they got there they saw everyone standing around the table, Chirithy on the table, and a tree truck besides the table.

Sora could hold back his confused look, “Why is there a tree truck in here?”

Chirithy looked at the royal couple, “This is our ticket to safety. This trunk is magic, and when built correctly we would be able to use it to transport one person to safety.”

Everyone once again started to speak up all at the same time, until Kairi held up her hand.

”What do you mean only one person?”

“I’m sorry your highness, but this trunk only has enough magic for one person.”

Kairi looked shock, “No- it has to be enough. I can’t go alone.”

Sora grabbed her, “You must, I will be waiting for you. We all will. Our son needs his mother though.”

Kairi shook her head, “I can’t leave you all here. I will not run.”

Aerith Looked at her sadly, “Sometimes we all have to make hard sacrifices. We’ll be fine until you get back.”

Kairi shook as Sora and Riku tried to console her. While that was happening Leon had his own questions.

”Where would it take her?”

Chirithy shrugged, “I do not know. But she would be safe from the curse.”

Cid then stepped in, “What would need to be built?”

Chirithy looked thoughtful for a second, “Anything that old do, I suggest a simple wardrobe. But otherwise anything that will be able to close.”

Cid nodded before looking at the couple, “I will build you a wardrobe, your highness. That way you would be able to leave comfortably.”

Sora looked him, “Thank you, my friend.” 

Cloud and Leon immediately started to help lift up the tree truck with Tifa not too far after them. Cid finally got over to help them as Aerith and Yuffie went in from and behind to help direct them.

Riku stayed behind with his two oldest friends, “Kairi, I know you don’t want to do this but it’s the only way.”

Kairi kept shaking, “I can’t leave you, Sora, or the whole kingdom behind while I get to safety. This whole thing started because of me, I should be the one to deal with it.”

Riku immediately tried to stop that line of thinking, “Don’t go down that path. I did that once too and it only got me into a darker place. Besides we have no choice if we want to save everyone.”

Kairi tried to argue more, “Bu-“

Sora stopped her, “He’s right. Nothing can be done now. You have to go.”

Kairi didn’t want to, leaving behind everyone else seemed so cowardly. On top of that, was she supposed to raise her son for slaughter? She never wanted to use any child like that let alone her own child.

Chirithy spoke up, “I’m sorry Kairi, if there was a better way I would do it. But there isn’t.”

Kairi cried until there were no more tears to cry and when she was done the two men helped her to her and Sora’s room so she can hopefully rest.

Chirithy looked at them sadly, he knew this was the only way. It’s what ‘he’ would have done. But the people who get caught in the crossfire have to deal with the pain instead.

”Hey,” Charlie said surprising Roxas, “Did you read the book?”

After calming down he looked at Charlie, “Don’t sneak up on people like that!”

”Sorry, I was just excited.”

Roxas nodded, “I can see that. Yes I read the book.”

“You did,” Charlie asked excitedly, “Did you see it then?”

Not wanting to crush the kid Roxas nodded, “I do, how do you plan to help though?”

Charlie thought about it for a second, “I don’t know exactly, that’s what we have to figure out. But most stories end with love triumphing over evil. So that’s my guess.”

Roxas’ brain stopped working, “Love? What am I supposed to get into a relationship?”

Charlie shrugs, “I don’t know, that just what most of the book is about. Love conquering all the evil.”

”First off, that’s cliche. Secondly, I’m not finding a relationship to break the curse. That would be rude.”

Charlie immediately started to make a ‘no’ expression with their hands, ”I wasn’t saying do that. We can find out how to save everyone without using people.”

”Sure kid.” Roxas rolled his eyes hoping the kid didn’t notice. To his relief they didn’t see anything.

Roxas gave the book back to Charlie hoping this would be over soon.

Charlie looked at the clock on the wall, “I have to go, I’ll see you soon.”

Roxas chuckled at that, “Bye kid.”

Shaking his head Roxas moved to get out of the booth.

After months the wardrobe was finally ready, but it was during this time that that everything went down hill.

The curse was on its way as they heard the alarm bell ding for their attention. While those two things happen so did the last stage of the pregnancy. Kairi wasn’t able to be moved anymore instead she stayed in her room with Olette and Selphie helping her deliver the baby. Sora right by her side. 

It took a while but soon the baby was born,  Sora was handed the baby so he could let Kairi see him for a second.

When Kairi did she cried, all her emotions coming out, “He’s beautiful.”

Sora smiled tenderly, “He is, I’m sorry Kairi I wish you had more time with him.”

Kairi shook her head, “Get him out of here.”

Sora nodded and immediately left the room, Riku joining his side as he burst out the door. Both fought off any invaders as they got to the wood shop room. Once in there Sora place the baby in the wardrobe with his necklace and Kairi’s good luck charm on him. Kissing the top of Roxas’ head.

”You will live a wonderful life. I’m sorry we can’t be there.”

once Sora said that he closed the door on the wardrobe just in time to see Terra pulling a weak Kairi into the room. 

“Where is the child?” Terra demanded.

Riku answered for the two parents, “He’s safe. You lost.”

in his anger Terra threw Kairi to the ground where Sora is. Sora grabbed her as they both glared at Terra.

Terra looked at the curse that was coming closer, “I don’t believe I did. I was just trying to put salt in the wound.”

When Terra didn’t get a response he smiled at them, “The only happy ending will be mine.”

Once he said that the curse came swallowing them all whole. Leaving The Dark Prince standing tall as he smiled about his victory.

Roxas finally gotten out of the restaurant, wanting to just lay down. Not paying attention he accidentally bumped into someone.

The man made a sound as he turned around angrily, Roxas on the other hand nearly groaned.

Roxas immediately tried to apologize, “I’m sor-“

“How dare you!” The man hissed.

“Like I said I’m sorry, I wasn’t watching where I was going.” Roxas tried to smooth over.

The man scoffed, “Obviously.” He then looked closer at Roxas, “I never seen you around before. Are you new?”

Roxas would love to leave conversation but he’s polite, “Yes, I just got to town.”

The man practically glared as he looked Roxas over, “My name is Terra, I’m the mayor of this town.”

Roxas was shocked, “Oh, uh, sorry Mr. Mayor. I’ll pay attention better next time.”

The mayor turned around in a huff, “You better.”

Roxas stood there for a couple seconds, “He is so rude.”

Shaking his head, Roxas kept walking to his hotel room to get some alone time before he goes to bed.

Chapter Text

Cloud could never put names to his emotions so he doesn’t try to. Like when he woke up early to get ready for the day. Earlier that week there were spies telling them that a village was going rouge so the knights had to deal with it. Cloud could never understand his uncomfortable feelings before so he figured he shouldn’t try to now.

He heard a yell at the end of the hallway, telling everyone to start getting ready. So Cloud gotten up as quickly as possible making sure he puts on his armor quickly and correctly. Once he was done he met up with the other knights standing straight as the captain came through the door.

The captain of his squadron was Zack, a friend of his that helped him get into the knights. He’s typically nice enough but in battle he was a force to be reckoned with.

Behind him was Prince Terra, looking very upset. It was clear this village was taking a toll on him. So him coming along wasn’t the beyond the realm of disbelief. 

They starting to march in the direction of the village. They have a lot of work that they have to do. Eventually they were at the village. Terra and Zack made their way up to a stage to he everyone’s attention. There was a group in front of the stage, about six knights in total. Cloud was apart of the group that would be positioned around the town.

Zack made sure he got everyone’s attention, “Attention everyone, Prince Terra would like to speak!”

The villagers all stopped talking looking nervous. 

Terra looked around before he spoke, “It came to my attention that you helped Princess Kairi. A fugitive of our kingdom.”

The villagers took big steps closer to each other, fear written on their faces. They do not know what would happen to them now.

Terra continues, “You all know that is treason. Yet all of you allowed this to happen. I can not forgive that, not when she continues to stay at large. But fear not I will give you all a slight mercy, your deaths would be quick and painless. Knights!”

Cloud and Zack both jumped as the rest of the knights started to kill the whole village. Zack shook his head but continued to do as his prince commanded. Cloud lost sight of him before he saw Zack do anything but the screaming that came from that direction was enough to tell Cloud what happened.

Cloud pointed his sword towards two small girls one with pink hair and one with short black hair and a cat stuffed animal. Cloud couldn’t do it, he was a knight meant to protect not kill innocents.

“Go, go as fast as you can away from here.”

He stepped away from them and as they ran he heard the girl with the pink say, “Thank you.”

Once the two to run past him, he plunged his sword in an already dead body. He didn’t want anyone to claim he didn’t kill anyone. He stayed in the area until he saw that they killed everyone.

Once they all made it back to the group they fell back into line, Zack once again taking command. Terra looked at all the carnage without an expression. He made a gesture for the knights to follow him as they all start heading towards the castle.

Cloud couldn’t help but look back at the village, wondering if there could have been another way.

Roxas was with James as they went around a store trying to find some more clothes for Roxas.

”I don’t get why you wanted to come with me to find clothes.” Roxas wined.

James laughed, “You can’t use your regular clothes on the boat. They will all get so stinky.”

”Because that is so bad.”

”If you want to be able to go into town. Then we are getting you new clothes.”

Roxas groaned, “Yes dad.”

James shoved him slightly, “Hey. I’m no father yet.”

Roxas looked at him like he was crazy, “You sure act like you are.”

James gave a sad smile, “No, not yet.”

”Do you want a family?”

James picked up some pairs of pants trying not to face Roxas, “Maybe someday.”

Roxas smiled, “Then that is a fine dream to have-“

Roxas was cut off when someone push him from behind. A taller man with blonde hair. He was running out the door of the store with an employee running after him.

”GET BACK HERE!”

Someone was on the phone in the back of the store talking frantically. While other employees were trying to keep the shoppers calm.

Roxas couldn’t help but ask, “What just happened?”

James looked thoughtful, “You don’t see thieves all that often here. I wonder who that was.”

Roxas looked around, “Should we go?”

James shrugged, “You could just get back to shopping. I’ll be right back though.”

Roxas looked at him confused, “Where are you going?”

James shrugged, “I’m going to check to see if everyone’s okay. That was chaotic and I want to make sure nothing happened to anyone else.”

”I guess,” Roxas mumbled, “I’ll just follow you then. We can continue afterwards.”

James smiled, “If you say so.”

James took his arm and almost dragged him over to help the employees and shoppers as much as possible. Picking up some dropped items when possible. After doing that for a little bit Roxas saw someone else come up to the employees.

This man has a red spiky hair and wore a sheriff‘s  outfit. He was going around talking to the employees, writing down on the note pad. One he was done he came up to the two of them and started to speak.

”Hello James, I wasn’t expecting to see you here.”

James smiled up at the man, “Hello Lea. It’s good to see you.”

”I would like to say the same but I’m here for work. You know how it is,” Lea groaned slightly.

“Then I won’t keep you,” Sora said back. “Oh but before you go, this is my new friend Roxas.”

Lea turned his head as Roxas gave a small wave, “Hello, its nice to meet you.”

Lea waived back, though his eyes became sharper. “It’s nice to meet you to, we don’t get to many people coming to our town.”

”Yeah,” Roxas awkwardly thieves, “My car broke down so now I’m staying here.”

”Glad to have met you.”

James jumped up, “We have to keep going. Or we might not finish shopping.”

Lea chuckled, “Then, like you said, I won’t keep you.”

Both Roxas and James waved goodbye as they went on shopping not noticing Lea’s eyes on them.

Cloud couldn’t get the sight of the massacred city out of his mind. It was unlike anything he’s ever seen before, anything he’s ever participated in before. It wasn’t right, but then again who was he to say what was right when all he is, is a soldier.

He is not the one that makes those calls, but he shouldn’t have let those two escape. They are now liabilities, but Cloud can’t bring it in him to go after them either.

Trying to clear his mind Cloud went to the training room to hit the dummies. Though it looked like he wasn’t the only one to have that idea.

Cloud couldn’t hold back his shock as he saw Zack also in the training room.

“Zack!”

Zack jumped in surprise before turning around to greet Cloud.

”Hey man, what brings you here?”

”Just,” Cloud starts to force out. “I just wanted to train a bit.”

Zack looked at him carefully, “I’m guessing today’s assignment was too much for you?”

”No, no it was not.”

Zack nodded, “It was hard for me.”

Clouds eyes went wide, “It was?”

Zack nodded, “Ever since I was young I wanted to be a true hero. Went all over the globe trying to help as many people possible, but this was against that. But duty and personal beliefs don’t always go hand to hand.”

Cloud turned away from him, “What do you do when it doesn’t go with each other?”

Zack sighed, “I can’t tell you what to do. You will have to find out by your self.”

Cloud couldn’t look at him, “What about you? Which would you pick?”

Zack picked up his sword, “Duty could mean any number of things. I can’t tell you what you should feel.”

”Not even a hint?”

”Not even that.” Zack got up, “I won’t hold what ever you choose against you, but know that might mean we stand against each other in battle.”

Zack left the training area leaving Cloud to think about what he wanted to do.

Roxas was walking away from the store after he and James waived goodbye. Roxas started to walk past an alley when he saw familiar hair. There isn’t any doubt that this was the man that ran into him earlier. 

Roxas couldn’t hold in a shout, “Hey you!”

The man turned quickly he heard the shout. When he saw Roxas standing behind him and so the taller man tried to run away from him. Though he didn’t get so far as he wanted as he went straight into a garbage pile.

Roxas very quickly ran to the man, since he doesn’t have any weapon to help him Roxas hoped that he looked scary enough. The man groaned as he turned around looking at Roxas with a huge glare.

”Why did you yell at me?”

Roxas crossed his arms, “You stole earlier. I wanted to be sure I caught you before you tried to leave again.”

The glare stayed put, “So I guess you called the sheriff then?”

”Yes,” Roxas lied, “He’ll be here any minute.”

The man studied Roxas until he smirked ever so slightly, “No he isn’t. You bluffing.”

“No I’m not!”

The man looked behind Roxas then looked back, “We aren’t far from the store. That would mean that he would be here in like a minute but I don’t even hear sirens. So I know he isn’t coming.”

”Well- why are you this close to the store anyways?” Roxas asked instead of admitting he lied.

”They would expect me to be further away and the alleys provide cover. So I came here instead of running in the wide open.”

Roxas smirked, “Gotcha.”

The man got up brushing himself off, “Not that it would be any used to you. Since you won’t be seeing me again.”

Before Roxas could retort he was pushed to the ground and the man went flying to a different direction. Leaving Roxas in the alleyway by himself.

Cloud thoughts long and hard what he wanted to do, and in the end he felt there was only one thing left to do.

Cloud packed up some clothing and some weaponry that he knew he was going to need later. Collecting as many coins as he can Cloud left the sleeping courters. He was going to get one chance and once it was gone it was gone for good.

He watched the guards as they walked back and forth in the hallways trying to find an opening. He eventually got an opening as Cloud made his way through the castle.

For a second Cloud was going to leave but then he thought of something better he could do. It would make him a fugitive but with any luck what happened today won’t happen ever again.

Cloud made his way up the castle to the Prince’s corridor, sneaking in. It was hard but not impossible. Eventually, he made it all the way up.

The room was dark as cloud snuck in through the door. He quietly went to the bed and lifted the knife. This was going to change his life for good, so Cloud stored his emotions away.

Moving the sheets a tiny bit Cloud was able to see that the bed was… empty. Terra wasn’t there at all. 

Behind him he heard the door shut, and cloud turned to the door and saw Terra glaring at him.

”You thought I wouldn’t notice your treasonous plot. I could see it from a mile away, especially since you couldn’t kill anyone in the village.”

Cloud’s eyes widened, he hoped that didn’t mean the two girls were in danger.

Terra continued, “I could forgive that. Not many are able to put duty first but coming to kill me. That’s where I draw the line.”

He sent a blast of dark magic at Cloud. With no other choice Cloud dodged the blasts, though Terra was not letting up no matter what Cloud did.

Cloud eventually made it to a balcony that was in the Prince’s room. With no other choice he jumped on the railing, and tried to swing into the room below. Against all odds, Cloud did it. He landed in the room below as he crashed into the window.

After staggering he got up and ran to the door, unfortunately the knights knew he was an enemy now. As soon as the door opened he saw a barrage of knights coming after him. He closed the door and backed away until he hit the wall. Suddenly he fell backwards and he looked up, he saw that Zack was standing over him with a smile.

He quickly pulled Cloud up, “Come on before they break the door down.”

Without waiting for a response he books it, expecting cloud to follow.

Cloud mutters to himself, “Your helping me.”

Zack whispered harshly back, “Follow me and be quiet.”

Cloud couldn’t stop a question though, “Why are you helping me?”

”My duty is to the people as is my beliefs, nothing can take that from me.” Zack not looking back answered.

Cloud was shocked silence until they made it to another hole in the wall. Zack opened it up and then stepped to the side.

“This is as far as I can take you. Keep running until you make it to the woods, that is where you find cover. Don’t stay in the open and be smart.”

Cloud stared at his captain, “Your not coming?”

Zack smiled, “I still have work to do here. I’ll meet up with you again if I can. Now go!”

Zack pushed Cloud out closing the passageway. Cloud tried to get back in but he couldn’t, so with a heavy heart he fled to the woods just as the knights started to chase him.

Roxas quickly made his way back to the store trying to find Lea. Eventually he found him looking at security footage.

”Lea, I think I know what direction he’s heading.”

Lea looked up at him, “Oh, really.”

Roxas nodded, “He was in an alleyway near here and ran out the other end.”

Lea stood up, “Show me.”

Roxas did, bringing him to the spot Lea saw what Roxas was talking. Though looking around it was clear that it didn’t lead to anything useful.

”While that was insightful, it doesn’t tell me where he went. Thanks for trying shorty.”

Roxas immediately glared, “My name is Roxas, not shorty.”

Lea laughed, “Temper, temper. I was just joking. You get anything else from him or no?”

Roxas shook his head.

Lea sighed, “Them this doesn’t help anything. I’ll see you around but for now I need to get to the station and figure out a game plan.

Roxas bit his lip as Lea left. He was just trying to help but like usual it didn’t lead to anything. Thats what he gets for trying.

Roxas shook his head until he saw a chain on the ground. It showed a few people in the picture, one was the man that ran away from Roxas, and in the background was a cabin in the woods. Not knowing what else to do Roxas followed it.

Almost immediately though, Roxas regretted it. He didn’t know where the cabin was he was walking blind. That was how Roxas spent his evening until he found an old run down cabin.

Stealing his nerves Roxas went to the door and started to open it up.

Chapter Text

Cloud ran until he was away from the castle. Though it was so much harder to get rid of the rest of the knights. Cloud was nothing if not persistent though, so despite everything he kept going until he was deep into the wood. Eventually Cloud made it to a cliff over looking the ocean. Looking behind him Cloud knew that he has one option, he jumped into the ocean hoping it would break his fall.

He made it to the water with a big splash, he stays under for about 10 seconds not moving before he starts to head over to the side of the cliff. Breaking through the water Cloud let out a big breath, trying to get his breath easy he looks around. 

“This is just great. Where am I supposed to go now?”

Shaking his head Cloud stuck close the mountain trying to get to the nearest beach that he can. Soon enough he found a spot that lets him get out of the water. Swimming quickly he got out, and started taking off his clothes. Not even checking if this spot would be safe.

He realized that mistake when he heard a gasp come from behind him. Turning he saw a woman with brown hair, looking at him suspiciously.

”Who are you?”

Cloud immediately tried putting on his shirt as quickly as possible.

”I’m sorry ma’am, my name is Cloud. I was just trying to get aw- out of the water. What’s your name?”

”I’m Aerith, and you can’t stay in those close. Get out of the water please.”

Cloud looked down embarrassed, “I didn’t want to make you uncomfortable ma’am.”

Aerith waved him off, “Nonsense, in fact come with me. You could use a nice place to get warm. How about you come with me.”

Cloud was shocked, “You want to bring a man you never met before with you. How do you know I’m not a killer?”

Aerith smiled, “Are you a killer?”

Cloud shook his head, “I’m not. But how would you know?”

Aerith started to leave expecting him to follow, “I don’t but I like to have faith. Now come on.

Roxas walked into the cabin looking around. It definitely looked bad inside with  very old furniture and bags full of random clothes. But it didn’t look abandoned, which probably meant that he was going to find the man here.

Roxas looked in the living room, then the kitchen, he was about to look in the next room but he heard the door open once again.

Hiding behind the door, Roxas saw that it was the man from earlier. Roxas slightly cheered knowing he was right.

Of course that meant he celebrated to early, the man somehow knew he was there because he turned to his direction immediately.

”Come out if you know what’s good for you!”

Roxas knew he could hold out for divine intervention or he could just get it over with. He chose the former, raising his hands he finally made his way out of the kitchen.

”You-what are you doing here?”

Roxas looked around, “I wanted to catch you since you stole earlier. Is-is this where you live?”

The man glared, “Whats it to you?”

Roxas gulped, “My name is Roxas. I’m new in town, and I wanted to help find you.”

The man glared never let up, “Well now you found me. Are you going to bring me in now?”

Roxas took out the necklace, “Is this yours?”

The man stared wide eyed, “Where did you find that?”

”On the ground.”

The man took a step forward, “Give it back.”

Roxas took a step back, ”What’s your name?”

The man never eyes never left the necklace, “My name is Carter Banout. Not that anyone cares anymore.”

”Why would no one care,” Roxas asked confused.

“Ever since my friend vanished, everyone left me. They claim that I was too far gone for help anymore.”

”Why would they say that Carter?”

Carter finally looked away from the necklace, “Because I became obsessed with finding out what happened to him. Because I pushed everyone away. Because I became violent. Take your pick new guy.”

Roxas put the necklace onto the ground, turning towards the door. 

“I will. But I ask that you don’t leave here. Please.”

Roxas didn’t wait for an answer, unsure why he’s doing this Roxas went back into town determined to help the man in the woods.

Aerith smiled at Cloud as he came out of her room with different clothes. As he put his old clothes near the fire place he heard her speak.

”So what brings a Knight of Prince Terra to my humble beach.”

Cloud immediately straightens up, “You know what I am.”

Aerith nodded, “Hard not to when you wear that outfit. So what’s the story.”

Cloud looked at the fire, for nothing else than to ignore the woman beside him.

”I’m a traitor to the crown. I’m now on the run. I shouldn’t even be here.”

Aerith didn’t speak for a second, “Where would you go?”

Cloud finally glanced in her direction, “Home, probably.”

”Does Prince Terra know where your home is?”

“I don’t think so,” Cloud shook his head. “I doubt he would know where all his knights live especially those at the bottom.”

Aerith smiled slightly, “Then how about I come with you then. So you don’t have to go alone.”

”You don’t have to.”

Aerith already stopped listening, “A friend would never leave another friend out dry. I’m coming no matter what you say.”

Cloud sighed, “Okay then. You will listen to me while we are out though.”

Aerith giggled, “We’ll see about that. Come on.”

Cloud picked up his stuff putting them into a bag then turned around to follow Aerith as she walked.

They walked in silence for a while, neither knowing what to say. Though it wasn’t awkward as they both hadn’t minded the silence they were in. As they drew closer though, Aerith couldn’t hold back her curiosity.

”What’s your village like?”

Cloud jumped slightly, not expecting Aerith to speak. “It’s a small village, though we get lots of traveling merchants coming through. We have a creek nearby for the kids to play, and woods surrounding the entire village. On a smaller scale, most people know each other as travel out of the village is minimal.”

Aerith smiled, “That sounds lovely.”

”What about you? Where did you come from?”

Aerith’s smile began to fade, “I always lived away from any village. My grandmother didn’t want us to get in trouble with them.”

Cloud looked in her direction, “Get in trouble, how?”

”My parents were seen as traitors by King Xehanort. They never did anything dangerous or against him, but he didn’t care. They spoke out against one decision and the town said they were traitors. King Xehanort hadn’t liked the idea of traitors, so he executed them.”

Cloud was uncomfortable but he gave Aerith a side hug as Aerith wiped a tear off her eye.

”I’m sorry for bringing it up.” He saw Aerith wave him off slightly so he tried putting them on equal footing, “I never really knew my parents. They were gone when I was younger leaving me to be taken cared by the village.”

”I guess it does take a village to raise a child.”

Cloud chuckled slightly, “Yes. It would seem like that saying is true.”

Aerith was about to speak again until she gasped at something ahead of her. Cloud turned to look as well, only to see a huge fire right where the village should be. Cloud without a second thought started to run towards the village Aerith not too far behind him.

Roxas wandered around town trying to find the other people in the Photo when he bumped into someone. Honestly that was very lucky because this turned out to be one of the people in the photo. The brown haired woman immediately started to apologize.

”I’m sorry sir. I didn’t see you there.”

”Roxas waved her off, “That’s okay. It was probably my fault anyways.”

The woman laughed slightly, holding out her hand. “My name is Jenna, what’s yours?”

”I’m Roxas. It’s nice to meet you.”

“Nice to meet you two.” Jenna was about to turn away from him before Roxas grabbed his arm.

”Wait-do you by any chance a man named Carter Banout?”

Jenna gasped, “Carter? I haven’t seen him in a long time. Do you know where he is?”

Roxas nodded, “I do. He needs help, he lives on a run down cabin in the woods. Completely on his own.”

Jenna rubbed her arm unfortunately, “I- I won’t be able to help you. I can’t- I can’t do that again. Not if he refuses to move on.”

“Move on from what, Jenna?”

Jenna shook her head, “I’m sorry. I just met you so I’m not comfortable telling you.”

Roxas looked down, “I guess you’re right. I’m sorry for bringing it up.”

Jenna nodded slightly, “Goodbye.”

Roxas waved as she walked away, “Bye.”

Roxas sighed when he was alone, he wondered if that’s going to be what happens with all of Carter’s old friends. He was thinking on the bench lost in thought, not knowing that someone was coming up beside him.

A familiar voice spoke up, “Are you okay?”

Roxas looked up to see Ashley sit down beside him.

”Yeah, Ashley, I am.”

”Are you sure. You look upset.”

Roxas looked away, “I just wanted to help a friend out. Though after speaking to one of his old friends, I don’t think it would be easy.”

Ashley put her hand on his back trying to comfort him, “Who are you trying to help?”

”His name is Carter Banout.”

Ashley thought for a second, “Carter Banout…I know who he is.”

Roxas looked up, “You do?”

Ashley nodded, “He used to be the deputy of the town, working under the late sheriff. He died in duty though, leaving Carter alone. It was too much for him though, he couldn’t take it and he fell apart. Leaving the sheriff post open for Axel to take it.”

Roxas looked shocked, “What happened to the original Sheriff?”

Ashley shrugged, “No one knows. Thats why Carter’s mental health declined. He tried finding it out and it cost him so much.”

”Do you know if he had anyone to fall back on?”

Ashley face saddened, “He did. His friends helped them as much as they could but he didn’t make it easy. Eventually they couldn’t do it anymore. Leaving him to start their own lives again.”

Roxas was shocked at the story, “That’s horrible.”

“Sometimes someone has to move on. They can’t spend their lives looking after others.”

Roxas shook his head, “That isn’t how friends should act. They can’t just leave when it gets too hard.”

Ashley looked away, “I can find out where they are. If you really want to find all of them.”

Roxas smiled slightly, “Thank you.”

Cloud made his way to the village seeing that some people were still in there. Without thinking Cloud ran in picking up as many people as possible.

Aerith not too far behind him, helping people up. When they got as many as they could get both ran out of the village to the nearest body of water. Out of breath, Cloud put down who he was carrying. As he was huffing he heard a familiar voice speak up.

“Cloud is that you?”

Cloud got up to see Tifa come his way. She hugged him once she reached him.

”Hello Tifa, it’s good to see you.”

”I didn’t know you were coming home.”

Cloud shrugged, “It was a last minute thing. What happened to the village?”

Tiff looked around, her sadness clear on her face. “I don’t know, one minute we were going about our lives the next the fire started. None of us know how.”

Aerith thought for a second, “Cloud are you sure that Prince Terra doesn’t know where you live.”

”I said before, he would know where one knight live.”

Tifa looked between the two, “Why do you think it’s him. Could it not be an accident?”

Aerith thought before answering, “It could be but the timing suspicious. Also if it start suddenly, wouldn’t it have been dealt with quickly instead of taking the whole village down?”

Tifa looked away, “I guess your right…”

Cloud shook his head, “That requires a what if. That doesn’t mean that the prince did this.”

Aerith nodded, “Your right about that but I think the timing is suspicious. You become a traitor and then your home gets burned.”

Tifa stepped back in shock, “You became a traitor how.”

Cloud looked away himself, “I would rather not talk about it.”

Tifa sighed, “I guess I never liked the prince anyways.”

Aerith smiled, “Agreed.

Tifa shook her head, “Come on. We have to meet up with the others. Make a game plan.”

Tifa pulled Cloud over to a group of people. In the group was Cid, Yuffie, and Leon.

Tifa called out to them, “Guys look who I found.”

Yuffie looked first, immediately running to hug Cloud, “How have you been?”

Cloud awkwardly returned the hug, “I’ve been well, Yuffie.”

Cid spoke up next, “I see your back from the castle. How was your trip?”

”Good, until I reached the village.”

Leon shook his head, “Now’s not the time for catching up. We have to figure out where to take all the refugees.”

Aerith spoke up, “I have a small house. That’s where we came from, if you think everyone can make it I can take you all there until you can get an actual game plan.”

Cid thought for a second, “Are you sure?”

”Yes, I can’t let all these people wander the woods with no idea where they are going. Besides we got a knight escort to help us. Cloud are you up for the task?”

Cloud nodded, “I would love to help.”

Aerith smiled, “Excellent, gather everyone together. Get them ready to walk.”

Cid, Yuffie, Leon, and Tifa all nodded. They started gathering everyone together.

Cloud turned to Aerith, “Thank you.”

”I’m glad to help.”

Soon the whole village was ready to move, though it was clear with the injured, young, and old it was going to take a while.  They started heading back to Aerith’s house.

Roxas got the list of people from Ashley, he was surprised that Robert Conaro was on it. He went to the car shop to find him.

Roxas got up to the shop, “Mr. Conaro? Are you here?”

Robert yelled from the back, “I’m back here kid. Also just call me Rob!”

”I need to talk to you.” Roxas said as he went into the office.

”Is it about your car?”

”No, I still don’t have the money yet.”

Robert grunted, “Then what do you want?”

”I wanted to know if you knew a guy named Carter Banout?”

”I did, don’t know what happened to him. He disappeared long ago.”

Roxas paused, “Disappeared? Did you not look for him?”

Robert glared at him, “I did. We all did, Carter just didn’t want to be found. I assumed he died.”

Roxas looked confused, “Jenna said that she couldn’t do it again and Ashley said that you all left him.”

Robert sighed, “We left when he disappeared. None of us knew where he went and we still had lives we had to live.”

Roxas nodded, “What happened to the original sheriff?”

Robert got up, getting more coffee. “He went missing long ago. Leaving Carter to take care of everything. He’s been gone for as long as I remember.”

Roxas paused, “What does that mean? I thought everything knew when he disappeared?”

Robert glanced at him, “A figure of speech. I can’t recall when it happened only when Carter went missing. Sheriff Lea came in helping people afterwards and when it became clear that no one knew where Carter was Mayor Terra officially gave the title to Lea.”

Roxas nodded, “How long ago was that?”

Robert shrugged, “I’m not completely sure. What’s with all the questions? Did you find Carter?”

“I did, and I think he still needs help. He lives in a run down cabin in the woods.”

Robert sighed, “I’ll call Daisy. I’m sure she could help.”