Five years ago the final battle was fought and won. Xehanort and his darkness was defeated by the light and a semblance of peace washed over all the worlds. The Keyblade Masters had won. There were costs, of course, but none too great.
With the end of Xehanort came time for a great decision. The worlds could not be returned to their original states - they could not be made as one - but as long as the lanes between worlds remained open in any fashion darkness would always have a chance to grow. Even if they remained vigilant for the rest of their lives it would only delay the inevitable repeat of Xehanort's actions. Clearly something had to change.
Census
HUMAN
KEYBLADE MASTERS
KEYBLADE APPRENTICES
DREAM EATER
NOBODY
HEARTLESS
Total
The hum of the transportation devices slowed down. The light faded and Rain felt sick. But there really wasn't much she could do about it. Her brown eyes opened, and she looked around slowly, her expression withdrawn and distant. Everything was blurry the closer it got. She sighed once and touched her nose where her glasses would be. But she had not worn them in a while. She pulled out her hair and draped her bangs over her eye. She looked up and stepped forward.
She clutched a strap with on hand and searched for people. It would be nice to find a Master. They knew all the people who came through here, and could help better. But maybe a student would still know where her friend was, if he was here. She knew the way to the academy, but wondered what it really looked like. She never wore her glasses when she came here, and could only see things at a certain distance. It made it easier to talk with people.
She saw someone. It was very blurry, but the colors were not the same as the academy, and in the shape of a person. She walked closer. She reached a hand out to catch his or her attention. "Excuse me. Do you have a minute?"
Post by Zephyr Kaitzur on Jun 23, 2013 16:19:59 GMT
It was a strangely silent today at the academy. The usual hustle and bustle of classes and training was at a minimum, leaving little more for Zephyr to do than to go to the library- not that he was complaining. The library meant the opportunity to research, which meant potentially learning more about his mark, or even learning new magic. Both of those were admirable goals. With that decided, he strode down the corridors, and down towards the library- or at least, that had been his intent. For all his wisdom, he had seemingly made a wrong turn, and wound up outside by the transportation device instead. Gah. Accursed... he started to think, only to be ripped from his thoughts suddenly.
"Excuse me. Do you have a minute?" an almost timid, feminine voice called out. As Zephyr turned, he saw a girl with long, brunette hair and deep, brown eyes. Without a word, Zephyr nodded, and quietly approached, his face devoid of expression, but infinitely curious. This one- she was not a student. That much he knew. Zephyr had a knack for remembering faces and names. That, and not many girls at the academy stood quite so much taller than her. In fact, with more than half a foot between them, he had to look up to her as she answered. "Certainly. How may I help you, miss?" he queried, tilting his head slightly to the right as would an owl in observation.
He doesn't sound familiar...thank goodness. Rain smiled a little in relief. She looked down at the blurry boy. He was nice and polite too, and Rain felt better for it. But he sounded young, maybe younger than her. Then again, she looked young for her age, if not for her height.
"I was looking for someone. Do you know everyone who comes through here? She asked. She tilted her head too, but she did not see the boy had done that too. She folded her hands in front of her. "He's very tall and has... um, wait... he might look like a girl. Long brown hair, and talks kinda... funny." She winced. Rain didn't know how to describe him to someone who might not know what to look for. "Does any of that sound familiar?"
Post by Zephyr Kaitzur on Jun 23, 2013 23:26:36 GMT
Know everyone who comes through here? Just about, as though Zephyr wasn't sociable, he made mental notes of everyone to know who to go to for what, as well as which students were to be considered friendly and which were to be avoided. However, her description was somewhat vague, and he wasn't really able to run it with someone. Long, girlish brown hair... did she perhaps mean Master Terra? No, he didn't talk funny. Genuinely perplexed, he closed his eyes, thinking deeply. "Long, brown hair, and talks kind of funny... Mm... I'm afraid that your description is rather vague, unfortunately. Are you seeking a student, or a Master?" he queried, opening his eyes and staring into hers. "The only one who comes to mind is Master Terra, and I'm afraid that I seldom know the Master's whereabouts."
She's certainly not a student. Should I be concerned? he wondered silently, watching for anything unusual. His assessment, however, assured her that she wasn't a threat- not directly, anyway. In fact, she seemed rather kind, and she definitely wasn't pushy. "If you're seeking a student, however, I'm certain I can point you in the right direction. Without classes, most of them stick to their rooms or seek out training. Either way, I'd be happy to help. I don't have any plans beyond paying a visit to the library to study magic," he stated in a rather straightforward manner. Then, it struck him he hadn't extended the introduction of his name. "... How rude of me. I didn't even introduce myself. My name is Zephyr- Zephyr Kaitzur. I'm a mage of the academy," he stated, briefly but humbly bowing in respect.
Rain smiled a little in embarrassment. It was true she was vague. She did not know how else to describe him to someone. But "talk funny" was much more telling than people realized. When they actually met him anyway. She shook her head at his suggestion. She knew who Master Terra was, and he was definitely not him. For one, he certainly could never be mistaken for a girl.
She held up a hand in protest. "It's okay. You should study..." She quieted as he introduced himself. Then straightened in alarm when she saw him bow. He must have been Chinese. She lived in the Land of Dragons for a little while, and wanted to show the same courtesy. "Oh, no, um-" The older girl bowed too by habit. "I'm sorry, my name is Rain. It's nice to meet you, Zephyr Kaitzur. Listen, it's okay, you should focus on your studying. I just..." She winced and stood up straight. "If you don't know who he is, he's probably not here. He's... memorable. I can ask a Master to be sure but..."
Rain looked up to the building in worry. She was not sure she wanted to speak to a Master. It always made her nervous. And she did not even think he was here. She had only come as a routine.
Post by Zephyr Kaitzur on Jun 24, 2013 2:23:20 GMT
Suspicious. Yet... not malicious. Concern, is most likely, Zephyr thought, observing the girl's reaction, specifically noting the way she gazed at the building. Rain, is it? I'll remember this one for sure- she returns courtesy, and shows genuine kindness, much unlike so many here. Pah. So many are simple glory hounds. No matter. They're irrelevant. The girl is the issue at hand- her and her friend. "Nonsense. My studies are of much less importance than your friendship," came Zephyr's rebuttal, lined with a slight smile. "It's clear as glass how much this friend means to you. I'd be a poor example of the quality of people within the academy if I put my own selfish ambitions first. Rest assured Rain, I'll offer assistance in whatever way that I can- that is, if you'll have it. I'd not impose," he offered, tilting his head once more, but to the left this time as his quirks often dictated. As he did so this time, however, his bangs parted, revealing the mark upon his forehead, which he was quick to conceal in embarrassment.
It seemed there was little cause for such, however, for Rain too appeared nervous. Zephyr was left only to ponder what for. Had he caused some unknown offense? Or perhaps caught her off-guard with courtesy? It was a forgotten art around these parts, it seemed. Though, it could also have been the thought of dealing with the Masters, if she was as timid as she appeared. Zephyr too sometimes felt daunted at the thought. Perhaps it was a combination of those factors? Whatever the case, the young mage wanted to help.
Rain blinked. Her brown eyes were wide and she was very surprised. He was so sincere and sounded so honest, Rain did not know what to do. She had only just met him and he wanted to help so much already.
She smiled slowly and listened to him talk. She closed her eyes. "Zephyr... thank you. But the truth is, I came here already knowing I wouldn't find him here." Turning to look up at the hallway, Rain's smile became a little nostalgic. "I've been here before, actually. I come here once every year, asking for the same thing. And every time, it's the same. I think I just come by necessity now. And chances are, this year will be no different." She turned to look at him, and her smile showed her gratitude. "But... just the fact that you want to help me so much means alot to me. It's... nice. You're a very kind person."
I should go... Rain glanced back at the transportation device. She knew she should say it, and not waste this nice boy's time anymore, but she was reluctant. Even looking at Zephyr, she did not see his marking because she was half blind. He was only a blurry outline to her. She turned back to see him, and looked down."But do you think you could... tell me where I can sit down? I've been walking for a long time now. And I still have a long way to go. Do you think they'd mind if I rested for a few minutes?"
Post by Zephyr Kaitzur on Jun 24, 2013 8:41:28 GMT
Now Zephyr was just perplexed. This girl knew that her friend wasn't here, and yet hoped that he was? In what right mind would that be a sound course of logic? Zephyr narrowed his eyes not in malice, but in confusion, trying to wrap his mind around the concept. He wanted to utter some sort of response, but could find none that wouldn't sound horrendously rude, and so kept his mouth shut, and instead raised his right eyebrow. There was no sign of deception in her tone or gaze, of that much he was sure, and yet still, this was so unbelievable!
"You... came all this way just to see someone you knew wasn't here? ... You're a perplexing person indeed. And yet, at the same time, I almost think I can relate. Strange," the mage rambled, drifting into thoughts of his mother. How often had he returned to the various rooms of his house, hoping to see her there? That seemed like an eternity ago. "I suppose it doesn't matter though.Traveling as you said you have, I can only imagine you're exhausted. Would you prefer an out-door or indoor environment?" Zephyr asked, trying to be as accommodating as possible.
Rain looked down, never losing her sad smile. He did not know how "perplexing" it was. She was a strange one. And getting more desperate.
"Wherever is closest." She answered easily. "I really don't mind either way. I just need a place to sit. It doesn't have to be fancy." She would have just looked for a bench herself, but she could not see.
Post by Zephyr Kaitzur on Jun 24, 2013 18:19:39 GMT
Zephyr noted the sorrow in Rain's smile, with seemingly no attempt to hide it. It seemed strange that such a kind person should be so sad, but then again, Rain had already proved herself outside the norm. Still, it almost seemed like she had no hope whatsoever, and that she barely had the will to go on. There was no point in dwelling on it though- she wanted rest, and it would be rude to pry. "Very well then, Rain. Right this way," Zephyr answered, motioning with his right hand for her to follow his lead. As the youth turned, however, he turned his head back a moment, gazing in wonder. Who exactly are you, Rain? he wondered briefly before returning to a nice, calm stride.
Slowly, taking care not to leave the newcomer in the dust, he paced towards the gardens, keeping his glance back on Rain, though whether it was concern for this girl or something else entirely, Zephyr wasn't certain. "So you're a traveler of the worlds then? Is it because of your friend, or... is it something more? ... Forgive me, I suppose it's not my place to ask. Think nothing of it," the mage rambled, placing his palm upon his forehead, as though he'd caused a great disgrace. Curiosity, honest or not, was likely not the best course of action right now. Zephyr had only just met Rain, and didn't want to offend her by any means.
They have gardens here? She never knew. But she also never looked. Outside was bright then shady. The leaves filtered the sun, but kept the place cool. Rain looked over the green plants curiously. No flowers? Maybe it was not spring time in this world. But it was still nice and pretty. Even prettier without the flowers, in her opinion. Rain did not notice Zephyr watching her. She was too lost in her own world looking at the trees and plants. But she held back a chuckle at his last statement. His mannerisms reminded her so much of China, but it was funny somehow.
"It's fine, don't worry about it. I just wanted to see the other worlds. Wanted an adventure, like everyone else did, I guess." She lied smoothly, and finally looked back at him, smile genuine. "But I don't do well in schools. My friend is just someone I met a long time ago that I lost. I just want to see him again."
There was a bench in the garden for people. Rain could see it, and she took a seat. It was better already. She stretched out her feet. She knew he could not ask questions, so changed to focus to him. It was the best way to hide. "What about you? Aren't you here to learn about other worlds too?"
Post by Zephyr Kaitzur on Jun 26, 2013 3:27:00 GMT
As they entered the gardens, Zephyr turned back to Rain, watching as she took a seat. As he listened, he noted that something seemed off. He wasn't stupid by any means;he knew a diversion when he heard one. Rain was hiding something, which led the mage to wonder- was it something that horribly painful and morbid? Or was it something more sinister? He'd have to keep his wits about him just in case. Still, she did stir his heart and mind. He hadn't really given thought to why he'd come here in a long time. Certainly, he had wanted to escape his father's confinement, but it was definitely more than that. "Adventure... The worlds..." the mage repeated, supposed that was part of it for him.
"Perhaps that's part of it. Perhaps a journey was what I wanted- no, what I needed. It's more than that, though. I... feel compelled by something- something that I can't explain. It's almost as if my heart itself guided me here," Zephyr explained, a solemn, distant gaze in his eyes. "I have always been gifted in the ways of magic, so long as I can remember. Foremost, I want to know why- and more than that, I want to know how I can use it to save lives! Though Xehanort is gone, his shadow lingers in the form of the darkness in the hearts of others, drawing ever closer to the surface and calling forth the heartless. I can't help but wonder... should others ever attempt his atrocities, will I be able to make a difference?"
Zephyr shook his head, returning to reality. "... I'm sorry. I was rambling again. You asked a simple question; not for my life story." With a heavy sigh, the mage took a seat next to Rain, his long, raven hair billowing momentarily with the motion, once again revealing his mark, much to his annoyance. "Accursed..." he grunted in irritation, fidgeting with his hair until the symbol was hidden once again. How embarrassing... If she could have actually seen him, anyway.
Rain couldn't see very well, but she still saw him moving. She saw his hand move up to his head, but thought his hair was in his eyes and was fixing it. "It's fine. And you should get a clip or a headband. It'll keep your bangs out of your eyes." She said helpfully. Or so she thought. The girl looked up into the trees, growing distant. "You're really lucky, you know, to have a place like this. You'll learn everything you want, without putting yourself in danger. And you... you know magic. I'm sure you'll make a difference out there. Because you have the best teachers of all the worlds right here to help you get there."
Rain smiled a little nostalgically, but sincerely. She really did think the masters were the best there were. She turned to face him. He was younger than her and so idealistic. It was nice. Inspiring. And painful. "But... don't forget the little things too, Zephyr. Even if you don't become a great fighter, you can still make the worlds better. Even a smile, or just a small favor to help someone in need can help fight off sadness or anger. We need kindness. Not just power. Don't lose that. Okay?"
Post by Zephyr Kaitzur on Jun 27, 2013 2:54:44 GMT
Rain's raised several thoughts in Zephyr's mind that he'd yet to come across, really. It was true- he had much to be thankful for. Despite his past adversity, he, unlike many others, was here at the academy, where he had access not only to almost infinite knowledge of magic, but access to the counseling of the masters. The mage's suspicions were definitely dwindling, and his guard lowered. Rain's level of empathy and kindness seemed to indicate the lack of a threat- of that much Zephyr was sure. "Kindness... not power..." he quietly repeated again, closing his eyes as he leaned back, resting his head. Slowly but surely, he smiled again, then opened his eyes, turning his gaze back to Rain.
"Rest assured, I have no interest in power- I only realize its necessity. Power without wisdom brings only destruction. History is that sad story set on repeat. Myself? I've no interest in power alone. I only desire enough to be a force to defend those who cannot defend themselves. I spent all my life shut in a room while the worlds around me fell to darkness. I won't stand idly by and watch another attempt the same. You... You're a kind and perceptive person, Rain. Much different than the adventure-mongers and muscle-heads I've gotten so used to," Zephyr explained, ending in a chuckle.
"As for my hair... Well... It's not that I want it out of my face. It's that I want it over my face to hide something. A mark of sorts, if you will. That's... another part of the reason I'm here. I've researched symbols and magic greatly, but I haven't found a match yet." With that, he let out a heavy sigh, and what joy and energy he'd built up quickly dissipated.
Something about his statement made Rain perk up. "while the worlds around me fell into darkness"... did that mean he knew what was happening? Was he from a world that knew what was going on six years ago? Or did he just hear about it later? Maybe that was why he was so determined. Rain was not sure, and did not want to assume. Besides, his next comments were more important. She kept her smile and simply said: "Thanks." But she did not agree with him. She knew she was perceptive, and she liked to think she was smart, though she could act really dumb sometimes. But she did not think he would say that if he knew the truth about her power. But she would not argue with him. She was just glad he seemed nice too, and actually listened to her. She did not want to see him go bad.
"Really?" Rain frowned and tilted her head. But squinting did not do anything to help her see. "Sorry, do you mind if I...?" She set her duffle bag down next to her, and pulled out her glasses case. Rain slipped them on, then looked at the mark, frowning in uncertainty. She leaned closer to get a better look, forgetting about personal space. "How long have you had it? You really don't know what it is?"
