Part 5: New Horizons

Days seemed to go at a faster rate than usual, it was summer now, and Yen Sid wanted to find a way to give his apprentices a surprise for working hard, behaving (moderately) and keeping up with their magic and homework. He decided that surprise would be to invite some guests around, old friends to be precise. On the day of their arrival, the atmosphere was a little different than usual, Yen Sid seemed oddly chipper. Mickey and Starlight watched him tidy up the living room, waving his hands around to spiffy the place up and make everything a little neater. “What do you suppose he’s up to?” asked Starlight, setting herself on Mickey’s shoulder. Mickey giggled watching his master at work, whenever Yen Sid was in such a giddy mood it was such a fun scene to watch, and was often a distraction for the apprentices who would stop and stare away from their work. “He’s definitely planning something.” said Mickey, who admired the sparkles and decor that the master sorcerer was putting up. “I wonder if Percy has an idea, wanna go ask him, Starlight?” The little glowworm giggled and nodded, the two of them quickly going up the stairs as Yen Sid made his way out of the living room, in case he caught them watching. Arriving at Percy’s door, Mickey gave three taps to it before Percy answered, the man was looking like he was going somewhere fancy with the outfit he had on, it was sparkly and starry like Starlight. “Ahh hello you two!” Percy said cheerfully, leaning down to pat them both on the head. “And what can I do for you?” Mickey and Starlight snickered at each other, with Starlight adjusting her nightcap so it was straight. “We were wondering…” she replied in a cheeky tone, “Well actually it’s two things…one, why are you dressed like that? Are you going to a party?” Mickey responded with the second part of the question, leaning into the doorway a little. “And two…What’s Yen Sid planning? There’s definitely something going on, I reckon you both are in on it!” Percy didn’t respond straight away, he was trying to hold back a grin and flapped his hands a little, he didn’t want to give away too much too early, but he couldn’t contain his excitement, grinning widely he lowered himself to whisper to them. “Well little ones DON’T tell the master I told you buuut…” he whispered, trying to surpass a chuckle trying to escape his throat. “We have guests over and they are coming TODAY! They’ll be arriving at approximately…” he paused to think, checking his imaginary watch on his wrist and tapping it. “Hmmm two hours from now? So we must get the place set! I’ve got to go and set the table and the plates for lunch, and remember what I told you both!” He gave Starlight and Mickey a quick boop on their noses before zipping away in his light form, the two youngsters were quite surprised, but excited nonetheless. Mickey walked through the hallway, making his way past everyone’s rooms and towards Scout’s bedroom. 

“Guests huh?” he said to Starlight, who flopped down on his shoulder like a little beanie plush. “Who do you suppose they’ll be?” The little gloworm gave a shrug from her upside down position. “I can’t say!” she giggled. “Maybe it’s Ambrose and his family? It’s been sometime since he brought his kids over.” Mickey gave a smile at the thought, they all liked Ambrose and knew Golden would like to play with Coral and Caspian again, after all they were cousins! Knocking on Scout’s door, the two were greeted by the teenager in the midst of removing her headphones, and Golden peeking out from behind her, who was happy to see the two. “Hey Mickey, Starlight!” said Scout, offering them to come in. “You guys wanna make music too? Golden and I just came up with the most AMAZING remix ever!!” Mickey and Starlight were glad to see her enthusiasm, taking a seat on one of her bean bags next to her desk and computer. “That’s okay, Scout.” chuckled Mickey as he sank into the bean bag. “We actually came to tell ya, we’ve got guests coming over today!” This made Golden and Scout look at each other before the realisation set in, guests!! Eager to find out as quickly as possible, Golden was the first to ask the question. “Who are the guests? Oh please tell me, please!” Starlight gave a laugh, floating softly over to her best friend and landing gently in her arms, grinning as she poked Golden in the cheek. “Slow down, lil lady!” she giggled. “We don’t actually know! It’s supposed to be a surprise, we did wonder if it might be Ambrose…But we’ll find out later today! I suppose we all should make ourselves look presentable.” 

Golden wondered at the thought of Ambrose, immediately thinking of the memory Percy had shown her of that special Christmas Yen Sid had spent with him, and Vidor and the other apprentices Master Grey had been teaching, how happy he was, how happy they were. She wondered if maybe Yen Sid had tracked down his old friend Vidor? Despite not talking about him much, it was clear from all those years ago that Yen Sid had cherished Vidor not just as a friend and a fellow apprentice, but also as a brother. “Having guests around will be a nice change.” said Scout, breaking Golden out of her focus for a little bit. “Who knows what could happen? Julius has been in his room a lot recently, it would be good if some friendly faces could help brighten the place up.” There was a call from downstairs, it seemed like Yen Sid wanted all the apprentices assembled. Getting up from the bean bag, Mickey strolled beside Scout and Golden, who cradled Starlight closely in her arms. “I think you’re right.” he said. “Come to think of it, Julius has been seeming a little…lonely, hasn’t he? I hope he hasn’t been feeling left out.” Just as the words left him, Julius’s door opened, the little cat darting out of his room and trying to fix his robes neatly, trying not to trip over his tail in the process. “Hmm, maybe he’s been thinking about his old memories too.” thought Golden, “I don’t think we really asked him about them, maybe Percy could help! He’s usually so good with them!” Entering the main room, everything looked neat and pretty, there was a welcome banner above the door, and three new chairs at the table, giving the game away a little at how many were coming. There was something delicious cooking over the oven, with the broomies all working together to make a special lunch for everyone, and naturally there would be a fabulous desert for afters, but no sparklers as last time there was actual fireworks flying from the ice cream. Everyone noticed that Yen Sid was checking everything to make sure it was all ready, and everyone looked their best. “Umm, dad?” Golden giggled, pointing at her father’s hat. “Your hat is hehe, it’s askew!” Yen Sid glanced up at his hat, with Golden gently casting a spell on it to fix it, which he was thankful for, no wonder it felt odd on his head… “Okay everyone, the guests…they’ve arrived earlier than expected but it’s okay! Everything is set and ready!” Yen Sid announced, a cheerful hum in his voice as he went to the door, turning the handle slightly. “So, are you all ready to meet the guests?” Everyone gave a quick shout of ‘yes!’ with Oswald jumping up and down in great suspense. “Quit stalling old man!” he yelled impatiently and excitedly, “Lets see them! I can’t take the wait!!” 

Yen Sid smiled and pulled open the door, on the other side were a group of three people, who all had interesting outfits and happily glanced around as they stepped inside, Mickey’s face lit up immediately as he knew who there were. “Aqua!! Ventus!! Terra!!” he called out, his smile getting wider as he ran to them, opening his arms to hug Aqua. “It’s you guys!” Aqua, the tallest and only girl, leant down to return the hug to her old friend. “Surprise!” she giggled, holding him firmly and almost lifting him off the floor. “It’s been a long while, hasn’t it? How have you been, Mickey?” The little mouse took her hand and led her through, her two companions following closely behind, “Oh boy do we have lots to tell you!” grinned Mickey, “There’s so much we need to catch up on!” The boys, Ventus, the younger, and Terra the older were wistfully admiring all the work and decor that went into their arrival. Terra bowed to Yen Sid, “Hello there, master Yen Sid.” he greeted respectfully. “Oh that’s quite alright, Terra.” Yen Sid chuckled. “There’s no need for formalities, you’re all guests here.” Terra stood up, giving a slightly sheepish nod as Ventus continued looking at the nicely done up room, he was like a kid in a candy shop. “Woooow so cool!” he cried joyfully, before catching himself and ducking a little behind Aqua. “Hehe, hi there, Yen Sid…” he gave a shy wave, prompting Aqua to laugh and to try and coax him out. “No need to be coy, Ven!” she laughed, patting the younger boy on the shoulder good-naturedly. “You’ve been here before, and we’ve all met master Yen Sid. Oh right, what gave you the idea to call us over for a visit, master? You have something to show us, or is it just a lunch meeting?” Yen Sid noticed her give a sly wink, looks like she caught on. Directing them over to his other apprentices, he instructed his little crew to greet them and not be shy, as they are all friends and are more than welcome to talk. 

“Well, since last time I saw you three I have gotten some new faces around the workshop.” Yen Sid guided, pointing out Scout, Golden and Percy, who all gave a friendly hello. Golden stared up at Aqua, she was really pretty, and she appeared to be as beautiful on the inside. Her voice was warm, and motherly, and had an approachable demeanor that Golden couldn’t help but want to see. Taking a step forward, Aqua noticed her, and gave a smile and bent down a little, putting her hands on her knees. “Oh hello there!” she greeted sweetly, “I take it you’re one of the new apprentices? What’s your name, little one?” Upon being asked, Golden stepped back, shyly hiding behind Percy and peeking out from behind his robes. Aqua felt a little bad, not intending to frighten the girl, though she was young so it was likely expected. Yen Sid smiled and put a hand on Aqua’s shoulder, letting her know that it was all okay and no harm was done. “You are correct, Aqua.” he said warmly. “That’s Golden, my newest and littlest apprentice. But not only that, she’s my daughter too.” All three guests turned in Yen Sid’s direction, staring at him with wide eyed intensity, Ventus almost spat out the water he was drinking that was handed to him by one of the brooms. “Woah! Yen Sid, you have a daughter now?!” he spluttered. Yen Sid, Percy and Scout held back on their laughter, while it was Golden who answered him. “Um, a-adopted actually!” she chuckled nervously, she moved out from behind her favourite light man, approaching Ventus now that she felt the ice had broken a little, reaching out a hand to shake his, Ventus gladly accepted and shook her tiny hand in his. “O-oh! I see!” said Ventus, smiling brightly at the young girl, “It’s a real pleasure to meet you! I’m Ventus, but you can call me Ven!” Terra smiled at the two youngsters as they became friends, and decided he ought to do so as well, moving over to Percy and offering him his hand, which Percy took and gave a vigorous shake, which Terra hadn’t expected from the man but was rather pleased to meet him nonetheless. “It’s good to meet you, my fine young man!” chirped Percy happily. “I am Percy! The brightest apprentice of Yen Sid, and I mean that literally, haha! But you know I wouldn’t be opposed to anyone calling me the brightest for my wits either, I mean it IS true…” Terra chuckled quietly, already amused by how eccentric Percy was. “Same to you, Percy. I’m Terra.” he said, feeling charmed. “It’s been a while since we all were here, but some things feel the same…even with a couple of changes.” Percy gave a sneaky chuckle, boy were they in for a story…

Leading the three of them into the living room, he beckoned the brooms over, all of them carrying trays with assortments on them. One carried a tray of tea with milk and sugar, another had a tray of sandwiches and two others had trays of cakes and pastries and fruit. Everyone took a seat, with Yen Sid sitting in his own armchair, the Wayfinders all sitting together, Golden squeezing in between Percy and Scout, and Mum taking a seat beside Mickey, Oswald and Julius. Starlight sat snuggly on Mum’s lap and prepared to tuck into a big sandwich. “Right, everyone ready for lunch?” asked Percy, grabbing his knife and fork and pouring some fresh water from the jug into his cup. “So, the three of you might not have heard but are aware that SO much has happened over the past few months! Little Golden here was in a spot of trouble when she came here, on the run from a crazy maniac who wanted to kidnap her! So I quickly helped her out of that little spot because 1. I am Percy for goodness sake and 2. It was the right thing to do! I mean she’s just a little girl who needed help! So of course I had to do something!” The Wayfinders sat silently upon hearing that, with Aqua turning nervously in Golden’s direction. “K…kidnapping?” she stuttered. “Seriously?” Percy nodded his head casually as if this was a normal occurrence. “Oh yes yes!” he went on, “Long after that a glitch monster noise-like thingamajig almost destroyed Golden’s dreams but I wasn’t around for that you see, haha!” Ventus gripped his glass of water intensely. “A monster?!” he cried, “Like a heartless? Unversed?” He wanted to ask more questions, but Percy was already on the move. “After that everything seemed normal, but then all you kids went and made a superbroom of all things…oh, and we did some memory diving! And…” He was cut off suddenly by Yen Sid suddenly sitting up from his plate, staring at his younger apprentices as they all shrank in their seats a little. “So…there were some shenanigans happening that day while I was out?” he asked, unable to hide a smirk on his face. “A superbroom? What is with you kids?” They all turned toward Percy and scowled, clearly peeved he had just grassed on them like that suddenly. “Percy!” hissed Scout, “He wasn’t supposed to know that!” The light man’s eyes darted from them back to the Wayfinders, who all looked incredibly confused. Giving a shrug, Percy airily continued. “After the whole memory thing we found out about Golden’s kidnapper and the master became this overbearing, overprotective mother all of a sudden…” Terra slowly dipped his fork into his salad, trying not to laugh. “He what?” he snickered softly. “Sounds like you, Aqua.” The blue haired lady shot him a glare, though there was playfulness behind it. “Hey! Well…what do you expect?” she retorted. “Someone’s gotta get you two outta trouble! It seems it always follows you.” She ruffled Ventus’s hair and gave Terra a good-natured punch on the arm, all of them laughing together like a typical yet close family. Yen Sid wasn’t particularly fond of being reminded of that time he became so protective of Golden, and felt he had let it go to his head. “Ahh sorry master but it’s the truth!” said Percy, clapping his hands as he continued. “Then glitchy stuff happened and we found the guy who was after Golden and he almost kidnapped her again!” Aqua almost stood up in her seat, her palms slamming on the table, Oswald had to hold the jug still so it wouldn’t spill. “WHAT?!” she cried in surprise. “You were almost kidnapped a second time?!” Golden slowly raised a hand, a sheepish grin on her face as her cheeks turned as red as the tomatoes in the salad bowl. “Guilty…” she giggled, wanting to hide in her hoodie and almost losing her appetite after remembering Andrew. “Indeed…so we fought him, he got what was coming to him and we turned him into roaches…” said Percy, grinning rather darkly at the thought, it was a satisfying moment to say the least. “EH?” gasped Ventus. “Roaches?” Terra squirmed, looking a little grossed out. “Well it was actually the master who deserves that credit, hehe…but we helped!” Percy continued, thinking of what happened next. 

“Hmmm oh yeah! And then Golden and Mickey went out and found Scout’s mum! Though in reality she’s really a mother to us all.” Aqua and Terra found that rather sweet and smiled sentimentally, while Ventus was curious about this ‘mum’ person. “A mum?” he asked. “Who is she? What’s she like?” Mum leaned over the table and waved, catching the attention of the trio. “I’m right here, dears!” she said cheerfully. “I’m Sonatina, Scout’s mother but please, you can all call me mum.” Terra and Ventus jumped back a little in their seats, how had they missed her?! “AHH! Where’d you come from?” squeaked Ventus, making Mum giggle in a motherly manner and sit down, finding the Wayfinders all rather endearing already. “And then we celebrated Christmas!” Percy smiled, sounding like he ended his recap, but he wasn’t finished. “But before we had our little party a giant living organ tried to kill Scout and Golden, hehe!” Ventus almost spat out his drink again, Aqua was now fuming at the many instances Golden had been in peril, Terra unsure whether to calm her or feel more aghast at what Percy was saying. “HOW?” cried Ventus, slamming down his glass. “Crazy eh?” Percy grinned, giving them another shrug of the shoulders. “And uhh, hmmm…OH! Yen Sid got snatched, went on a rescue mission to get him back-” There was a cry of “WHAT” from the Wayfinders, now wondering what in the world they went through before today, their cry in unison almost shook the walls. “Grand villain scheme of course,” answered Percy, “And then Golden got pretty brutally tortured, pretty much died fighting those baddies and saving us all.” Aqua almost summoned her keyblade as her mother instincts began to hit its peak. “Villains…torture? Almost DIED?” she yelled, nearly knocking Ventus into Terra’s lap. Percy merely nodded his head. “Yup! Aaaaand…that’s it! And now you three are over having lunch, how wonderful!” Ventus sighed, not sure how much he could take and dabbed his forehead with one of the serviettes provided, Terra gave a meek smile and a thumbs up while Aqua slumped back into her seat, almost exhausted by everything that had been recounted. “Oh my goodness…” she breathed, chugging down one tall glass of water. Golden sat forward, waving a hand in front of Percy’s face to quiet him. “Just so we are clear!” she stated, “I am fine and I don’t wanna be known as the one who dies or gets kidnapped! It’s just a bad stroke of luck that’s all…” Percy giggled and gave her a playful ruffle on her head. “Oh but it’s true! You are the-BLUGH!” he was quickly shut up by Golden sticking a chicken leg into his mouth, her eye twitching as she turned back to her lunch. 

Eventually relaxing again, the Wayfinder trio settled back down to eating, with Aqua giving a warm look at Yen Sid. “Well master, it’s clear you’ve made a big wonderful family!” she grinned, “You’ve certainly come along since we saw you when you were training Mickey!” Yen Sid smiled back at her, his cheeks turning a little rosy at her compliments. “Ahh, why thank you Aqua.” he said kindly, “It truly is, isn’t it? I’m so glad to have every single one of you here.” Mickey raised his glass to the air, Oswald and Julius following him. “Here here!” he cried joyously, clinking his glass with his brothers, Golden picked hers up and offered to toast with Yen Sid, which he gladly did. “A toast to us all!” 

Everyone finally ate their lunch and continued their conversations, the brooms brought out a delicious dessert of ice cream cake and some custard, along with some little cupcakes with different symbols on them, including some unique ones styled out for the Wayfinders, which consisted of a blue, green and orange coloured cupcakes with stars sprinkles on them. They were very reminiscent of the wayfinders that Aqua had crafted, and even if they might have been too pretty to eat, they all tucked into them quickly, and got a little bit of icing on their lips. After lunch, everyone had congregated into the living room, and took a seat on the sofa, with Yen Sid taking Mickey and Golden onto his lap, Scout sitting beside Percy and Mum, Oswald and Julius sitting on the bean bags beside the game consoles. They all spent the afternoon and the evening telling stories, the Wayfinders had plenty to discuss about their adventures, some from their own apprenticeships. There were even instances where Mickey had joined them in some of their journeys and outings. 

The brooms soon brought in a meal for everyone as dinner time rolled around, it was a special home cooked pizza! “Wow, pizza!” cried Golden happily, easily picking up a slice and biting into it, Mickey and Scout tore off a piece for themselves, Mickey had picked the slice with the most cheese. “Now this is what I call success!” Mickey cheered, taking bite after bite of his cheesy pizza and gazing up at Yen Sid. “Say dad, what made you decide to bring these three over?” Yen Sid smiled and pulled out two handkerchiefs from his robe pocket, giving one to Mickey and using the other to dab away some cheese and pizza sauce from Golden’s mouth, though she was insistent she could do it. “To start, I was thinking about some of our old adventures.” explained Yen Sid softly, “It seemed like so long ago since we spoke, I can’t quite remember when, however they are our friends…so I felt we all deserved to meet up and see each other again, and get some of you who haven’t met yet introduced.” The brooms gave a little bow to the Wayfinders and took everyone’s plates once they were finished, with everyone full, it was almost time to settle in for bed. “It’s been a pleasure, Yen Sid!” smiled Aqua as she got her feet, stretching her arms up after sitting down for some time. “It has indeed.” agreed Terra, who couldn’t help but bow again to Yen Sid. “We hope we can do this again sometime, for now it looks like we better get home and let you guys sleep.” Yen Sid winked at the young man as he too stood up, still holding Mickey and Golden in his arms, who both looked a little sleepy now. “Why wait?” grinned the sorcerer. “I’ve set up a guest room for you three, so you can stay the night, and don’t worry I’ve had everything set up for you.” This was a pleasant surprise for the trio, and everyone else was glad they were staying, Golden in particular was hoping to chat with Aqua more. Ventus was ecstatic at the idea of a sleepover. “Wahoo! Slumber party!!” he cried, punching a fist into the air.

Oswald hopped down from the bean bag, and stood in the middle of the room, an idea springing to mind as a light bulb popped up between his ears. “I’ve got it!” he said, “Tomorrow, why don’t we all have a new adventure tomorrow? Like…like a trip somewhere!” The idea of a trip was intriguing, there were plenty of places around the Kingdom of Lumos that could be explored, perhaps even outside of it. “A trip?” Mum inquired thoughtfully, “Anywhere in particular, dear?” Oswald tapped his bunny feet in deep thought, wanting and hoping to pick a location that would appeal to everyone. He snapped his fingers, another light bulb popping up on his head. “Oh how about the beach?” he suggested, looking rather excited as he said it. “My kiddos love it there; there’s warm sand, cool water to surf or swim in, and if anyone wants to relax in the sun it’s perfect! But if you guys wanna do something else, there’s the mountains, the outer lands, maybe a city if you guys are interested?” Starlight perked up at the idea of the ocean, imagining herself swimming in the big blue deep, it would remind her of her night flights, except at the beach! “That sounds so fun!” she cried, zipping around Oswald earnestly and then Aqua, who giggled at the little gloworm as she spun around, leaving a cloudy trail of purple star dust around her as she waved her wand around. “Hey hehehe!” Aqua laughed, brushing down some of the star dust from her shoulders. “You’re a funny little creature, but you are cute and sweet! I like you.” Starlight grinned at the tall lady, amused greatly by her compliment. 

Starlight enthusiastically bounced onto Golden’s hair and nuzzled into it like a cat would, Golden scrunched up her shoulders at the funny feeling it gave. “Thank you! I am Starlight, Golden’s best friend!” introduced Starlight to Aqua, Terra and Ventus. “We’ve known each since forever! For…about eight years you could say!” Starlight crawled across Golden’s head, holding onto her locks as she leaned forward, flipping upside down in front of Golden’s eyes. “Goldie! You wanna go to the beach?” she asked, the little girl practically bouncing on her feet at the idea. “Yes yes I’d love to!” she answered happily, balling her fists eagerly. “Maybe we’ll see a mermaid! I’ve seen them in books, and they are beautiful creatures with amazing voices! Please dad, can we go? Can we?” Yen Sid was charmed by her cheerfulness about the beach, now thinking about it, he hadn’t ever taken her to the beach. A trip out to see the ocean and experience a day out at the beach should be something any child should have, especially with their family. “The beach it is.” he said, with Golden running to give him a hug around the legs. Starlight jumped up in the air and spun around again, this time landing on Aqua’s shoulder, leaving another trail of sparkly stardust falling through the air. 

“So, you’ve been friends for a long time, eh little one?” Aqua smiled, giving Starlight a little rub under the chin. “That reminds me of me and Terra, we go all the way back to our childhoods too.” Terra gave Aqua a warm, nostalgic look as he started reminiscing about his childhood days with Aqua, playing with toy keyblades in the Land of Departure while their master watched, and then Ventus arrived, and they were as close of a family more than they had been before. “Ahh, memories are quite an extraordinary thing, aren’t they?” Percy mused, thinking a little of how Golden and Starlight might have met, clearly when Golden was still very tiny, but how they met was a story untold. “You’re telling me, Percy…” said Scout, “Some memories are really crazy, but some are really beautiful! And without them, I don't think we would have ever found mum!” Scout leaned her head on her mother’s shoulder in a loving manner, to which Mum had started resting her head on her daughter’s, earning a couple of ‘awwws’ from the others watching, Ventus too found it heartwarming, and was unable to shake a thought his head as he glanced over at his two older friends. “I don’t really remember my parents.” he began softly. “But you know, I always considered Aqua and Terra to be the closest people I have to that, they’ve loved me and cared for me like a mum and a dad would…” Aqua and Terra turned to Ventus, Aqua almost tearing up suddenly as they both sandwiched Ventus between them in a tight hug. “Aww Ven…” smiled Aqua tearfully, petting Ventus’s soft golden locks like a mother would to her son. “And we love you like you’re our own Ven.” chuckled Terra, trying not to squeeze the boy too hard but enough to show how he cared for him. Ventus snickered and tried to wiggle his way out of their grasp. “Ahh! Okay okay guys!” he fidgeted. “I get it! I love you guys too!” 

Percy clapped his hands, grabbing everyone’s attention as he pointed out the clock, somehow it was eleven PM already, and the smaller apprentices were all looking a little bit tired. “Okay everyone, it’s bedtime and you know the drill!” he cried, “Wayfinders, I know you’ve had quite a long journey and must be quite tired, so if you would follow me up the stairs I’ll show you the guest room! As for you boys, hurry up and get into your pyjamas and brush your teeth, the last one to do so does all of next week’s laundry! And Scout, make sure the littl’un is in her room and tucked into bed by the time everyone else is!” He jumped up and quickly transformed into light, leading the way to the guest room where Terra, Ventus and Aqua were to stay. Oswald, Julius and Mickey were already racing ahead to win first place, none of them wanted to do ALL of the laundry but this was the rule Percy had set. “I’m gonna beat ya, Oswald! You won’t catch me!” laughed Mickey, already ahead of his brothers, Oswald was trying to sprint past Julius without stepping on his tail. “Mickey I am NOT doing laundry!!” he glowered, thinking him being a lucky rabbit wasn’t helping right now, he was now ahead of Julius. “Hey! Guys I wasn’t ready!” Julius wailed, the three of them now scrambling for the bathroom to brush their teeth, the adults all laughed at their antics and were pleased with how much of a successful night it had been. Golden gave a yawn, and so did Starlight who was nestled snugly in her arms. “Are you feeling ready for bed, sis?” Scout asked as she picked Golden up, the young girl giving a sleepy nod of the head. Scout held her up to Mum and Yen Sid, who both gave Golden a kiss goodnight. “Goodnight sweethearts.” said Mum, lovingly giving a kiss to Scout too. “Sleep well, both of you!” Yen Sid waved them both off as the girls went upstairs, before letting them go, an idea had come to mind for the beach trip. “I’ll send Aero a message, and ask if she’d like to come with us to the beach.” he said gleefully. “I’m sure she’d never say no to the beach!” Golden gave a wide smile, happy to know that Aero would be joining them for a day out at the beach, which would also mean Star would accompany them. 

The hallway was filled with a cacophony of yells and laughter in one of the guest rooms, it appeared Mickey had won the race and he, Oswald and Julius were in the middle of a tickle fight, with Percy playing coach and the Wayfinders watching the funny scene play out before them. Scout and Golden giggled as they walked past the room, and Golden looked past her sister’s shoulder, unable to take her eyes off of Aqua. Once inside Golden’s room, Scout handed her some pyjamas and let her get dressed before helping to tuck her into her bed, noticing Golden was now looking a little more awake. “Hey Scout?” Golden spoke quietly. “That lady, Aqua…I’d like to talk to her, before we go to sleep, can you ask her to come into my room to see me?” Scout smiled, giving Golden a wink as she brushed her hair, Starlight quickly burying herself under the thick blanket. “No problem, Golden!” Scout grinned and set down the comb. “I’ll go get her as soon as the boys finish their little game! Just don’t be up too long, okay? Dad’ll know…” Golden giggled, it was true that Yen Sid had some kind of instinct of knowing when one of the youngsters was out of bed, she snuggled down into bed, ready for sleep to take over her. “Alright Scout, thanks, and goodnight!” Scout got up and waved her little sister off to sleep. Golden wasn’t ready to sleep straight away, but her room felt rather hot, even as she pushed the covers off a little. Sitting up, Golden opened her window a little to let in a nightly breeze, which was perfect as the stars were out. “Ooh, look at the stars…” Starlight gasped, staring out at the dark sky, and the distant glow of the moon. “Hey Golden, I’m gonna go for a little fly, that okay?” Golden tiredly nodded, and opened the window a smidge more so her little friend could squeeze out. “Have a safe night.” Golden whispered, watching Starlight fly out toward the stars. 

Now alone, Golden tried to settle back down into bed, but that seemed impossible. She still felt hot, and started sweating, why did she feel so sweaty and uncomfortable? Why was…she seeing roaches on her bed crawling toward her? She couldn’t move, yet the feeling of dread overtook her, and she couldn’t shake it. The roaches got closer to her, she quickly covered her head with her arms, panting heavily as her glitching started to activate, spiralling into an out-of-control glitch process, darkness filling her arms as the moon suddenly went out. The roaches, the darkness, this inescapable void, it was all an overwhelming sensation, like a large stone lodged deep in her stomach and her throat, too tightly to scream, she sat still, alone in the dark and twisted void, where she stayed there feeling the unbearable sense of dread even as the door to her room opened…

“Golden, it’s me Aqua.” came a gentle, feminine voice. “Scout said you wanted to- Golden?” Aqua stared as a light source began flicking from the bed, the heavy breathing and the constant glitching was a horrible sight, especially considering it was Golden, a young child in the middle of a panic attack and unable to hear Aqua. “Oh my goodness!” Aqua gasped, rushing to the girl’s side and quickly but gently trying to rouse her out of her state. “Golden?! Hey, Golden, what’s wrong? Look at me!” But Golden was unable to hear her over her heavy breathing and rapid heartbeat. Aqua tried to call her for her again but it was clear her voice was unable to reach Golden, Aqua wasn’t sure if she should call Yen Sid, Mum or even Percy for help. “Golden…!” Then her hand reached for Golden’s, seemingly without notice, and gave it a gentle but somewhat firm squeeze. Gradually, Golden’s breathing began to slow down, though it hitched slightly as she began to speak. “Its…dark…” she said, barely above a whisper, her glitching not quite under control. Taking her other hand, Aqua spoke softly again to Golden, hoping her words would get to her. “It’s alright, Golden,” she soothed, “Everything’s fine.” Golden’s glassy eyes blinked, her vision returning as she gazed up at the blue haired woman, whose matching eyes were kind and compassionate. Golden’s breathing and heart rate returned to normal, and her glitching began to stop. “A…Aqua…?” Aqua nodded, letting go of one of Golden’s hands as she sat down beside her and started to stroke the young girl’s hair. Shaking off her fear and panic, Golden couldn’t help but throw her arms around Aqua and hold onto her tightly, pressing her face into her shoulder, and although it did surprise her, Aqua wasn’t hesitant to return the hug and softly patted the child’s back. “Shhhh…it’s okay, it’s okay.” Aqua whispered, her voice warm and motherly. Taking a deep breath, Golden found herself starting to fully relax at last, still clinging onto Aqua for good measure. “T-thank you, Aqua…!” she said, noticing the moonglow was back, and Aqua looked radiant in it. “Aww hehe, it’s no problem!” the older girl smiled, delicately moving some hair that was stuck to Golden’s face. “Are you okay? You can tell me what happened.”

Golden looked up at her slightly, and hesitated for a moment. Aqua was…she seemed warm, but could she really understand? She took a second to breathe again, and then looked away slightly. “Well…I have this thing, Percy sorta mentioned it earlier, it’s called a glitch. That and a whole baggage of things up here…” she sighed, tapping her head and Aqua ruffling her hair gently. “Oh, I see. Hmm…you wanna talk about it?” she gave a gentle smile, Golden once more looked hesitant but the feeling of being held by the older girl was really nice, and she felt safe with the moonlight once more illuminating her room, and not a single roach in sight! “It’s a lot but…I can always try. Thanks for listening, Aqua…” she trailed off, but Aqua didn’t seem to mind, instead gently picking her up and taking her towards the window, which was still open, and the two stared up at the moon together. “You know, you remind me a lot of myself.” Aqua smiled, Golden looking at her in curiosity. Apart from the hair, were there really that many similarities? Aqua seemed so strong, so brave, whereas Golden felt pretty pathetic in comparison. Aqua turned to her, though, and there was a brightness in her eyes, but also a wistfulness. “Mm. When Terra and I were little, we lost our parents…there was a man who took us in, and we were his apprentices, a bit like you and Mickey. But also like all of you, that man treated us as his own. It didn’t matter that we were two little orphans living together at the time, he really gave us everything…” she trailed off, Golden trying to picture this. “What’s his name?” she asked, Aqua giving a slight sigh and staring up at the moon all the way up there, and giving a nostalgic smile. “He was…Master Eraqus. He and Yen Sid knew each other well…but unfortunately, something terrible happened. Master Eraqus…well, he’s now in our hearts, and guiding us.” she finished, placing a palm on the window and Golden knowing the feeling all too well, leaning into her. Aqua truly was beautiful and kind, but…she also knew loss and pain, perhaps they weren’t too dissimilar as she’d said. Perhaps telling her some things wouldn’t be too hard, then, as she felt like she already knew her well, and stared up at the moon alongside her, imagining Aqua’s heart sounded like a cello, steady and strong, but also soft and graceful when need be. 

They moved back toward Golden’s bed, Aqua gently putting her down and sitting beside her, Golden leaning on her slightly. She sighed and pulled her knees up to her chest, taking a deep breath. “Well…Percy told you most of it, but not really in detail.” she began, Aqua thinking back to the lunchtime conversation and now seeing it in a new light- perhaps Golden was still affected by the things that happened, even if it was a while ago. Her hands started to glitch slightly, the girl pulling her sleeves over them and continuing to take deep breaths. “Sometimes…I wonder if I’m really weak…and useless.” she forced out, her voice barely a whisper and Aqua immediately putting an arm around her, the girl balling up her fists as her arms continued to glitch, though her sleeves concealed most of it. “What makes you say that?” Aqua replied, patient as usual as Golden blinked nervously, looking up at Aqua slightly as if it was obvious, but the older girl just gave a slight smile. “Well…last time we were fighting a foe, I got tricked and hurt a lot. I gave away my heart because…I was being selfish. I thought if I gave it up, I’d be able to make sure we have a safe future.” she admitted, Aqua now curious about how you could give up your heart, since they were meant to stay locked up inside you. Though, the thought of Golden as a little shadow heartless, or wandering round as a small nobody…she ruffled her hair and smiled, the image was pretty cute, even if the road to get there was something nobody should experience. “After the whole torture, everything went dark and I ended up in this scary place, all dark and alone. I didn’t know where I was and I couldn’t see anyone, not mum, dad, or even Percy! And…then I felt this horrible sensation all over my body, like I was burning and it really hurt…and then I woke up.” she explained, now looking lost and frightened. Aqua exhaled and took a second to process, before moving the girl slightly closer to her. “All I want…is to be strong, I wanna be like the wizard in the book, the one that makes music go all around him. I want to be strong, and then nobody will hurt me or try to kidnap me anymore.” she finished, Aqua pausing and then nodding, gazing out the window once more as the moon passed overhead, casting light down onto both of them. 

Aqua turned to Golden and gave a slight smile. “You know, this reminds me of something I once said to someone. He was struggling to believe in himself, in his strength, but…” she trailed off, before leaning her head atop Golden’s, and placing a hand gently on Golden’s chest. “You’ve got strength in your heart. Being physically strong won’t change a person unless they have a strong will and connections with others. In your case, I can see that within you. You love your family and friends with all your little heart, don’t you? You’d do anything for them, even die for them, though of course we don’t want that.” she giggled, gently booping Golden’s nose, who thought about it and nodded. Aqua smiled at this and pulled Golden into her arms once more, resting her head atop hers. “Then you’re already strong. You’ve just got to believe that, Golden.” she finished, before gently tucking Golden in, the girl sitting up to give her one last hug. Aqua smiled as Golden’s eyes sparkled with new happiness, as if she’d been renewed by the words, and put a hand over her own heart, glad to see a smile once more. “Thank you, Aqua.” Golden grinned, pulling her covers over her, the ones adorned with stars that almost perfectly matched her hat, and even the wayfinders. Aqua gave her a smile, leaning against the doorframe. “Hehe, anytime, honest! Now, you should probably go to sleep- I heard Percy mention that you get cranky when you don’t get enough~” she teased, Golden chuckling and nodding, “He would mention that, you don’t want to see me cranky, really!” she replied, now facing Aqua as she lay down, eyes bright as she looked at the older girl. Aqua chuckled, it reminded her of Ventus, and they wished each other goodnight, Aqua closing the door and Golden curling up, now feeling much happier and finding herself excited for the beach…maybe she could convince Yen Sid to play favourite whale in the sea!

Out in the hallway, Aqua headed back up to her guest room, before bumping into someone in the dark, Mum quickly casting a spell to dimly illuminate the person in front of her, giving a warm smile. “Ah, it’s you Aqua. I didn’t know you were still up.” she smiled, leaning on the nearby balcony rail that overlooked the main workshop, Aqua joining her. “Oh haha! Sorry, your daughter, Scout, right? She said Golden wanted to talk to me, we just had a little chat, she’s all good now.” she explained, Mum being attentive to the last part but giving a sweet smile nonetheless. “Oh? I can see you have as big a heart as she does, hehe.” she replied, Aqua blushing and scratching her cheek in embarrassment. “Yeah…?” she chuckled, a little flustered but feeling her heart warm, this lady was so kind, so caring… she almost felt like she could be Aqua’s own mother, though that might be a bit embarrassing to ask! “Yes. I think you two will be wonderful friends, along with those two boys with you.” she replied, before looking slightly wistful as she looked toward Golden’s door. “Golden is…a wonderful little girl. She’s unfortunately been through a lot of pain, both physically and emotionally.” she started, but put a hand on Aqua’s shoulder when she looked slightly saddened. Mum smiled, remembering the gift Golden had received at Christmas, and then took Aqua’s hand. “However, the fact that she has so many wonderful people in her life also means so much to her. The light she has within her outweighs all the darkness, and that light is what we guardians protect, you and I.” Mum smiled, Aqua nodding. “It’s our duty, just as Master Eraqus taught me.” she smiled, looking down at the wayfinder safely attached to her belt, Mum examining it for a moment. “Somewhere out there, there’s a tree with star-shaped fruit, representing an unbreakable connection.” she smiled, Aqua’s eyes lighting up at Mum recognizing the legend, and nodded. “We all have one, I made them. I didn’t have shells, but I used what I could.” she admitted, and Mum just shrugged. “As long as the oath lives in your heart, materials don’t matter. What matters is the promise.” she replied, Aqua nodding eagerly and the two of them starting to walk up toward the guest room on the floor above, Aqua turning to Mum. “Golden has such a great family…I’d be honoured to be a part of it, if she’d like that.” she admitted, Mum giving a warm smile. “I’d like that a lot too, dear.” she replied, Aqua feeling that maternal warmth and being slightly wistful, moving a little closer to her. “What should I call you…?” she asked, the woman smiling slightly. “I’m Sonatina Simons-Symphonus…but please, ‘Mum’ is just fine, thank you.” she chuckled, Aqua feeling her face turn a little red and wondering if she was really allowed, but at the same it felt right. She nodded, and at that moment, Starlight flew in through an open window, watching them bid each other goodnight. Mum gave her a wave as she passed, Starlight zipping down and through Golden’s door, nestling under the blankets and the girl’s arm as she slept, waving her wand gently and making sure Golden had the best dreams, and falling asleep herself. 

The next morning, Ventus awoke first, energetic as usual. Throwing on some casual clothes, he headed outside to see Percy hanging off a balcony like a bat, still half asleep but looking comfy. Rather confused, he leaned over slightly, sheepish. “Excuse me…?” he started, Percy’s eyes snapping open and the man falling to the ground with a crash. “Oh heavens!” he called, somehow not having cracked his head open and instead just sitting there, balancing on his head. Ventus ran down…and realised Percy had caught himself with magic, balancing on top of a platform of light. Almost wanting to chastise the light man for making him panic, he watched the man turn himself over, giving a grin. “Are you alright?” Ven asked, cautious but slightly pouty, having legitimately thought Percy was injured for a second there. Percy winked, and chuckled slightly. “Oh yes, perfectly fine, don’t worry your little head about it, son! Now…what do you say we wake everyone else?” he smirked, a mischievous grin crossing both of their faces as he pulled out his bell, battering it with a stick and Ven covering his ears as it resounded across the entire house. “Wake up, everyone up, bright and sunshiny day, though not as light as me!” he chortled, groaning all across the house resounding as everyone was forced to wake. Scout was first to open her door, and spotted Percy holding the bell, her eyes furious. “Percy…SHUT THE HELL UP!” she screamed, throwing a CD case right at the light man, who barely dodged it…and it smacked right into Yen Sid, Scout’s eyes going wide in a mixture of anger and pure horror…she was done for! Yen Sid took the case into his hands and folded them, meeting Scout’s eyes, who cringed and went almost as red as her robes. “Scout, that language is not permitted. And do not throw things at your brother.” he spoke, now stern and the girl nodding, shrinking down into her pyjamas slightly in shame. Percy smirked up at her, mouthing what Yen Sid said as he spoke- until he received a whack to the back of his head from Yen Sid. “And you, no instigating or imitating me. If I wanted a parrot, Percival Symphonus, I’d have bought a good looking one!” he smirked, Percy ranting under his breath about that comment, especially with his luscious locks, but Ventus just laughed into his hand, Yen Sid catching his eye and giving him a subtle wink. 

Golden’s door then slammed open, the girl looking rather cranky. “Percy, YOU INTERRUPTED MY SLEEP!” she shrieked, the boys coming out on the floor above and nodding in agreement. “Ahhh, I’m so sleepy…” Julius moaned, but all of them were shut up when Percy started dancing. “We’re going on a trip, in our favourite rocket ship, zooming through the sky, Little Einsteins!” he sang, holding his arms out like a plane as he pranced around the workshop, everyone looking at him in confusion as they all walked down, Oswald looking especially annoyed. “Percy, what the actual hell are you on about?” he asked, Percy giving an excited grin, looking as if he would explode with joy. “We’re going on our holidays, that’s what! Don’t you remember suggesting it, Oswald?” he asked, watching the rabbit practically inhaling some coffee and everyone else sitting down at the table for breakfast, Percy sitting down too and eyes shining with excitement. Oswald thought back a moment, and then nodded. “Yeah, I remember now!” he grinned, “we’re going to the beach!” Percy nodded and turned to everyone. “As soon as breakfast is done, get packing! We’re going for two days, so bring everything you want!” he crowed, everyone eating pretty fast and then rushing upstairs to get what they wanted. Scout packed some light clothes, Mum a beach hat, Julius found his ball, and Golden grabbed drawing supplies along with everything else. She wanted to make a gift for someone, so she needed her stuff! She was about to grab her jacket alongside her backpack, when she reached for it and… “BOO!!” Starlight called, popping out from inside and startling her slightly, the girl giggling. “There you are, Starlight! Come on, we’d better get going or Percy will ring that stupid bell again!” she laughed, Starlight giggling and grabbing some doll-sized clothes and sunglasses, packing a small case. “I knew that was him, you know!” she chortled, the two walking downstairs and seeing everyone now had a bag or two of stuff they wanted to bring, nothing too huge but just bits and bobs. Julius was nearly falling asleep on his suitcase until Oswald passed him a coffee, knowing that feeling all too well! 

Mickey looked at everyone in turn, and then up at Yen Sid, now wearing a blue top and some red shorts, perfect for a day at the beach! He even had a little gold shell necklace and some different shoes, sandals, he looked ready to swim right there and then! “Oh boy, this is really exciting! Say, where did you say we were going exactly, Percy?” he asked, Percy giving a wink. “I didn’t! That’s for me to know.” he smirked, everyone now wondering where exactly they were heading. Yen Sid had a twinkle in his eye, though, and turned to Percy. “Come on everyone, I’ve prepared us a rocket!” he cheered, leading them outside, where a big red Rocket awaited them, making a noise of happiness that sounded much like a marimba. Aqua bent down to Mickey, and whispered in his ear. “That’s a rocket? Mickey, I thought we might be going in the Gummi Ship!” she giggled, the mouse turning and nodding, “hehe, I thought maybe the Clubhouse Rocket! But looks like Percy knows what he’s doing!” he replied, everyone piling in and Percy turning to them all, giving a huge smile. Ventus put on his seatbelt, turning to Terra, who chuckled slightly at how excited he looked by everything. “Oh boy, this’ll be fun!” He grinned, Terra unable to resist rolling his eyes slightly, though playfully. “Ven, you’re such a child.” he snickered, Ventus elbowing him in the ribs. Rocket made a little sound, one that sounded like a laugh, and everyone continued to sit. “Let’s get going, what’s the holdup light man?” Oswald laughed, Mickey gently shoving him so he could sit comfortably, Julius then starting to nudge both of them until a green screen popped up to distract them all. 

“Girls, why don’t we all sit together? There’s space for all of us!” Mum suggested, plonking Golden onto her lap, who was wondering all about this rocket and if she could befriend it. Scout nodded, sitting down next to Mum and throwing on her headphones, smiling. “Good call, momma!” she replied, Percy rubbing his hands together like a showman. “Alright everyone, this rocket is a special type, as you can see! We all gotta pat our laps to make it go!” he grinned, the broomies piling in and a familiar tune starting up, some rolling their eyes, but eventually everyone was patting along, Mum jokingly patting Golden who was on her lap, making the little girl laugh as she enthusiastically drummed. And soon, the rocket had enough power, and off they went, way into the sky.

They flew past the mountains surrounding Fioritura, over Nocturne, Percy spotting his apartment and Golden seeing the theatre, and then past the council, everyone waving down. Someone flew by them, Aero having caught up and Star waving at Starlight, the two racing against the rocket but being slightly slower, and then they were over the ocean, a beautiful expanse of sea and shore…islands coming into view. There were around nine of them, dotted with little fishing villages and boats sailing out at sea, the boys all trying to spot people on the beach from above. They zoomed past them, toward a different coast, and then finally landed, in a vibrant place known as Aquatica, more specifically, Kookaburra Cove. They landed close to a beach, Rocket making delighted sounds at the sand beneath its wheels, and then they all piled out, the broomies instantly rolling around in the sand and earning quite a few stares. Yen Sid chuckled at their antics and took Mum aside, both of them heading to sort out a hotel, trusting Percy and the Wayfinder trio to watch everyone whilst they did. The group all ran down toward the beach properly, where sparkling waves crashed all around, and they rolled up their trousers, kicking off their shoes and running into the blue, all splashing and laughing together as the sun shone down. And then…they heard a squeak.

“Did you hear that?” asked Julius curiously, moving in the direction he had heard the squeak, Scout putting a hand behind her ear as she listened closely. “Yeah, I think I know what it is…” she mused, stepping ahead of her brothers to get close to the shore. In the water, something was moving, and in the sunlight they all recognised it as a dolphin! It squeaked again at the gang to greet them, turning on it’s side to wave it’s flipper!  “Yo, that’s a dolphin!” gasped Scout, admiring the beautiful creature as it playfully splashed around in the sparkling water. “Look at that!” Mickey grinned, gesturing to Golden to come closer to see. “Woah…it looks so sparkly in the light, look at it go!” Golden’s eyes widened as she watched the dolphin, she had never seen one in person, and it looked so majestic. With another squeak, the dolphin jumped up high into the air, performing a flip and twirling around before landing back in the water with a splash. Everyone clapped for the dolphin, which encouraged the little creature to show off more and continue with it’s tricks. It performed a front flip, a back flip and plenty of mid-air spinning, it spun to the side, leapt and dived, making plenty of huge, sparkly splashes, the dolphin really knew how to put on a show! “What a funny little dolphin!” smiled Percy, popping on a pair of sunglasses as he watched the dolphin do its tricks, “It’s quite a little show off, a talented one though!” Mum giggled in agreement, coming up beside Percy and holding onto her sunhat to avoid the wind blowing it off. “And yet it’s somehow so graceful.” she said. The dolphin knew how many eyes were on it, and started performing its many tricks again, everyone watching in amazement. Yen Sid smiled at the group, magically setting up several chairs, parasols and tables, along with the brooms setting down a basket of food and a cooler full of fresh juice and water. “If any of you wish to swim, you may.” Yen Sid told his apprentices, taking off his hat and placing it on the table beside him. “The dolphin won’t harm you, in fact, I think it wants to play as well.” Sitting down, he turned to the Wayfinders, who were all watching the dolphin showing off too. “You three too, you may do whatever you wish, after all you’re on holiday!” Terra and Aqua were keen on the idea of swimming, and perhaps trying out some water wrestling to see who’s the best, maybe Scout and Aero would be up for it while positioned on their shoulders? Their train of thought was cut short by Ventus tugging on Aqua’s hand. “Hey, can we get sea salt ice cream?” he asked, putting on a pleading, puppy-dog eyed expression. “Pleeeeeease Aqua?” Aqua smiled, which turned into a snicker as she patted her young friend’s head, walking with him and Terra to find the nearest ice cream truck. “Oh Ven, why not?” she winked, not against the idea of getting ice cream herself either. “The water will still be there later,” said Terra with a smirk. “And then you’ll get to watch me dunk Aqua and show her who the real winner is!” Aqua smirked smugly back at him, giving him a light swat on the back of the head in a similar fashion to Yen Sid earlier. “Yeah, the real winner will be ME!” she laughed, he tried to whack her back, but she was too quick and the two were stuck in a playful fight while Ventus watched and looked forward to his ice cream. Julius stepped into the water, the dolphin waiting for him to approach it. Although a little shy, Julius held out his hand to the dolphin, who kicked its tail to get a little closer and nudged his hand softly. The dolphin’s skin was so soft and squishy, and it clearly enjoyed being petted and cuddled. “Aww, it’s letting me pet it!” Julius laughed, watching the dolphin squeak again as everyone else got up close for a turn. “You’re so friendly, aren’t you?” The dolphin clicked, allowing Mickey to pet it next, then Scout, Oswald, Percy, Aero, and Golden and Starlight were up to take a turn each. The dolphin paused, and then suddenly leapt up again and performed a backflip, splashing the group and soaking them from head to toe. “Ahhhh!! I’m soaked!!” squealed Starlight, who couldn’t help but laugh at the situation, “I’m a sky person, not a sea person!” Golden even tried shaking the water off like Julius. “Cheeky dolphin!” she grinned, wanting to now dive into the water and swim with her new friend. The dolphin kept squeaking and kicking its tail to splash, and Golden was excited to play some more too, but everyone’s attention was soon directed to Percy, who was walking back up the beach. “Lunch everyone!” he called out, “The brooms have laid out sandwiches! And hot dogs and burgers too if you think you’re fast enough!” The boys turned back to the shore, already starting another race to get to the table, they could already smell their lunch and it made their stomachs rumble and their legs move faster. “Oh boy! Hot dogs!” said Mickey, “One of my favourites!” Oswald felt his mouth water and instead of running decided to fly with his ears, it was easier than running through the thick sand. “And burgers too! Perfect for a hot beach day!” he cried, Golden grimacing behind her brothers. “Euuurgh…I’ll stick with sandwiches, thank you very much!” she stated, hoping they’d have tuna, cucumber or cheese sandwiches, Julius’s favourite always had sardines, while Scout was looking forward to some freshly prepared juice. They all waved to the dolphin, hoping he’d stay there for when they come back later and have a swim, as the day was still early. Under the large parasol, everyone ate their food and bathed in the sun, at this time it was high in the sky and made the day even more beautiful. Golden sat on her chair, watching Yen Sid, Mum and Percy relax on the sunbed chairs, while Scout got ice cream and spoke with the Wayfinders, all talking and walking together while Mickey and Julius were burying Oswald in a sandcastle, Aero went for a stroll along the rocks, looking for seashells along the shoreline, Star and Starlight were helping, and Star appeared to be carrying a large clam in it’s stubby hands. “Everyone seems busy…” Golden thought to herself, “Maybe the little dolphin is still here, time to go swimming!” She stood up and stretched her arms, feeling the warm sand between her toes. The beach was truly a remarkable place, she didn’t ever want to leave now! Heading toward the shoreline, Golden stepped into the water, which was cool in the hot sun. The dolphin reemerged, moving close to her for a cuddle, the young girl reached out her hand, stroking the dolphin’s smooth head. “Awww! You waited for me!” she said sweetly, the dolphin squeaking in response. It moved forward a little, showing it’s dorsal fin to her, motioning for Golden to take it. “Oh…you want me to hold on?” she asked, feeling a bit uncertain, she was in the water by herself and hadn’t told anyone. It could end badly, but she’d probably regret not doing it if doing this ended up being wonderful…she took hold of the fin, and the dolphin began to gently move through the shallow water. This was quite a nice feeling for Golden, and the dolphin was slow and considerate for her, she did read about dolphins and that they were highly intelligent creatures who could read the emotions of others, she giggled cheerfully, and the dolphin made happy little clicks in response. “Let’s go for a swim! The others will wanna-WOAH!” Golden was suddenly pulled out of the shallow waters as the dolphin began to pick up the pace, going out further to the big blue. Golden was a little apprehensive, she didn’t want to go out too far from the others, but the dolphin displayed no aura of wanting to scare her, and was simply playing. She was surprised when the little dolphin suddenly took a dive, taking her with it. Holding her breath, Golden held on the fins tightly in the hopes she didn’t get left behind. Opening her eyes, she was amazed by the beauty of the underwater world, all the marine animals and plants, the rocks and the shells, it was like she had entered another realm, and was completely mesmerised. She looked up, a pod of dolphins swam by, likely her little friend’s family! She let go with one hand to wave at them, and had to hold on tight again as the dolphin picked up speed. It shot off like a torpedo, and turned upward, ready to jump and make a huge splash. Golden saw the surface above, it was like she was charging toward a ceiling! She held on, the surface of the ocean getting closer and closer, and in the very corner of her eye, she didn’t see the dolphin…instead what caught her vision was…a man?

SPLASH!! The open air filled her lungs, droplets of water fell through the air in slow motion, the heat from the sun on her face…she was still moving toward the sky, when she felt something take her hands, lifting her arms above her head and giving her a twirl. She fell backwards into someone’s arms, she thought it was Yen Sid, but something was very different, yet somehow familiar…looking up, there was the man she saw earlier, he was smiling and had the brightest aqua coloured eyes she’d ever seen as they glistened in the bright sunshine. He wore a grey and cyan wetsuit that was the same texture as dolphin skin. He landed on something hard, a small strip of land in the water, and set Golden down gently beside him. “Hello there!” he squeaked happily, greeting her enthusiastically. “That was quite a swim! Was it your first time? I hope it was as exhilarating as you had hoped!” Golden stared at the man, in both wonder and confusion. He seemed rather friendly, but he was also a stranger and Golden immediately felt her guard go up. “W-who are you?! Have I been kidnapped again? Where’s my dolphin friend?” she asked nervously. The man’s face turned from gleeful to surprised before finally turning to reassurance as he shook Golden’s hand. “Kidnapped? Oh ho ho goodness me no!” he chortled, keeping a humorous front up for her. “No need to fear, young one! I hope I didn’t startle you, I never meant for that, not at all! I am Delphis, the spirit of the sea! I saw you up on the beach with all those people, I’m gonna guess they are your family? You all were so friendly and approachable, I was hoping to give each of you a ride!” It took Golden a couple of seconds, but she soon tweaked and smiled up at Delphis. She realised now she shouldn’t be surprised, anything was possible these days, even dolphins that turned into people! “Well, Mr Delphis…” she said, starting to grin. “That was an AMAZING ride! And it was my first time, it was really fun! A-and thank you!” She reached up and gave Delphis a hug, which he happily returned, both of them overjoyed to meet a new friend. He picked her up under the arms, giving her a little twirl in his arms, which wasn’t difficult given their size differences and Delphis’s strength. “Haha! Aww you sound just like Marina! Ooh and speaking of which, you two should definitely meet! Ha ha ha it’s always a pleasure to see the look of pure joy on someone’s face when they take their first ride in the sea!” Marina was a new name to Golden, thinking of who she might be, she gazed up at Delphis with a look of curiosity. “Marina? Is she your wife, Mr Delphis?” Delphis froze, a small whistle escaping his throat as his cheeks turned a rosy red. “Wha-! Oh ha ha ha! No no, Marina is not my wife!” he laughed, trying not to look too flustered, waving his hand in front of his face to cool himself down. “Haha! BUT…I do have a wife! Oh, she is the most beautiful lady you would have ever laid eyes on…mi amore! Oh how I love her…!!” He seemed to go off in a trance, looking rather enamoured as he thought about his wife, hearts fluttering around his head like butterfly fish. “My Aurora is so amazing…you MUST see her! When you see her, you’ll forever be reminded of her when you see a rainbow!” Golden was intrigued, her name was Aurora…she sounded as beautiful as Delphis had described, and she was eager to meet her. It occurred to Golden suddenly that she hadn't even told Delphis her name! She was getting introduced to new people and yet completely forgot to introduce herself. “Oh I um…she sounds wonderful!” she grinned, standing up straight and trying to look professional like her dad when he spoke to others. “My name is Golden, I’d be more than happy to meet Aurora! And Marina too, I bet my family would all be happy to meet you too- OH SHOOT!! My family! I need to get back to them!!” Delphis watched her fret about what her family might think knowing she was gone or she just went swimming with a dolphin-man spirit, humans were such funny creatures and Delphis couldn’t hide his amusement. Picking her up, he sat her on his shoulders and gave a dainty jump into the water, making a splash. Golden yelped suddenly as she was picked up, and the water drops splashing in her face got into her throat, causing her to have a bad reaction to the salt she was tasting. “AHH! Ewww salty!!!” she cried, hacking up and spitting into the water, she was not getting that taste off for a while. She realised that Delphis was taking her for a swim again, he was going much slower and gentler this time, and it was a much smoother ride through the ripples. Looking down, Golden noticed they were in a shallow area of the sea, so she could see kelp and small crabs and shells on the sandy floor. “I’ll take you back to your family!” Delphis smiled, taking a turn and swimming past some rocks into a more wide open area. “I can get acquainted with yours, and they can meet my family! I consider the whole ocean to be my little family, but there’s some I know you’ll just LOVE to be friends with!” Golden had almost forgotten about her worries and her strife, knowing she was in safe hands with Delphis, and clung to him with glee as they waded through the water. They could see the beach up ahead, and Delphis made a beeline for the shore. Golden thought perhaps he would transform into a dolphin again, but he stayed as he was as he pulled up to the beach. Scout and the Wayfinders were close by, running up to Golden when they noticed her with a stranger. “Golden! There you are!” cried Scout, holding onto her hat as she quickly approached. “Who…who’s that?!” Reaching the shoreline, Golden stepped into the shallow water, running to her family as Delphis rested in the clear sea, watching as he grinned and kicked his feet. Scout and the Wayfinders looked ready to check Golden if she was unharmed, the young girl looking slightly worried they might turn on her new friend. “This is Delphis!” she smiled, looking back at him as he wore a sweet, completely wholesome stare as she reunited with her relatives. “This might sound odd, but…let’s face it, nothing is out of the ordinary here! Delphis is the dolphin we were playing with earlier! He’s also a very nice dolphin man and let me tell you he can really SWIM!!” Golden giggled giddily, feeling the rush of excitement from her time earlier when she rode on Delphis’s back as he raced through the ocean and passed all the marine life. Delphis winked and performed a little backflip, diving back into the water before resurfacing with a playful pose. “That’s me!” he cheered, waving his hand at everyone like a performer greeting his fans. “The spirit of the sea, Delphis! It was a pleasure to meet you all earlier, but you left! When Golden came back to play with me I just HAD to give her a ride! It would be terrible of me not to do so, and as I guessed she loved it!! Anyone else want a go?”

After many, many rides around the cove, Delphis lay flat on his back on the surface, serene and relaxed, the waves gently lapping against the shore as the ocean was still as glass. He then turned to Golden, who was paddling, and smiled. “Ah yes, I was telling you about my wife, wasn’t I?” he smiled, Oswald looking up in surprise. “You’re also married?” he asked, Delphis raising an eyebrow as if the answer was obvious- who wouldn’t want to marry such a sweet man, even if he was like 3 billion years old…actually, maybe most people would be put off by that, but oh well! He gave a smile and created some jets of water which burst into bubbles, forming little pictures above. First, they showed two indistinguishable blobs, one above and one below, and they transformed into ancient creatures. These creatures slowly moved toward one another, at first frightened, but then becoming friendly, and then slowly morphing as they stayed together, going from ancient to more recognizable, cetacean and avian…and then humanoid, through magic. Delphis smiled as he watched the bubbles waltz, switching in an instant from humanoids holding one another to macaw and dolphin, encircled in rings of beautiful bubbles. “Aurora…mi amor, she’s a beautiful macaw I fell in love with…maybe around 2 and a half billion years ago?” He tried to estimate, but his perception of time was all confused. Golden nearly gasped at how long ago that seemed, she was only eight…that must seem like less than a second to someone like Delphis. Nevertheless, the dolphin spirit gave a warm smile just thinking of those times, and Golden timidly moved toward him, joining him and floating on her back, both looking up at the bubbles. “How old are you, Mr Delphis?” she asked, the man smiling. “As old as the sea, and she is as old as the sky. We were born together, all those billions of years ago. Aeons passed, and the world changed around us, writing so many stories that I’ve seen…we’ve seen.” he smiled, before moving his hand slightly, separating the bubbles apart from one another. “It used to be hard…I wouldn’t see Aurora for centuries due to certain issues. The humans had been given weapons capable of controlling us, as if we were mere objects…” he gritted his teeth, not liking the thought of that trident. “Atlantis, for example? The sinking of that was done by the trident. Humans keep them on the land, so I can’t get to them, and neither can Aurora. Because the two items were diametrically opposed, they would create storms and maelstroms of the worst varieties, and the humans blamed us. Then…the storm and maelstrom spirits came, and forced us to live apart…” he looked quite sad, Golden swimming close to him and gently resting her head on his arm, which he put underneath her to keep her afloat, a small smile appearing. “But you know what happened?” he teased, Golden shaking her head and incredibly curious about the story. He moved his hand, creating a third person in the bubbles, a young girl…and then a little boy beside her, even younger. He gave a sweet smile as the young girl took the hands of each spirit, bringing them together, and the little boy clung to the sea spirit, all of them looking much like a family. “Marina and Kobu happened. And they changed our lives. Since then…warding off the spirits has never been easier, and we’re seeking to destroy those items once and for all.” he finished, before turning to her.

“Golden, can I give you some advice? Advice from a being of 3 billion years?” he winked, the little girl nodding and continuing to stare up at the bubbles, which now had even more sea and sky creatures surrounding the group, a family nearly as big as her own. “Never let anybody treat you as if you are an object, an item. You are so much more than just that, as am I, and never allow yourself to be used as such, or view yourself as such.” he smiled, Golden looking at him in wonder. Their eyes were roughly the same shade, but his held so much wisdom, whilst hers were innocent, taking in every word and never forgetting. He chuckled slightly as he lay back, before Scout swam over to the group. “Hey Delphis, can we meet your wife?” she grinned, Delphis liking the idea and nodding. “Perhaps…there are ways to summon her.” he replied, still relaxed and merely flicking his wrist slightly, a jet of water coming from nowhere and launching an empty conch shell into the air, the man deftly catching it without a care in the world. He put it to his lips and blew, a mighty call echoing all through the area, one which alerted everyone else. The boys all looked at him in curiosity as they built a sandcastle. “Hey, he looks so calm…” Julius remarked, Mickey nodding as he put some shells as decoration around a moat. “Yeah, I wonder if he’s in a good mood, haha! I wouldn’t want to see the ocean when he’s angry!” he giggled, Oswald shrugging. “Hmmm, maybe it’s because the sea is calm? I wonder if the sea changes with his mood, or if his mood changes with the sea…?” The three of them scratched their heads at this idea, it was possible not even Delphis knew, as he was the sea, and the sea was him. They weren’t separate entities, but he could dissolve any moment into a tide, only a small blue trail marking him as distinct from any piece of foam or shifting current. 

Aqua approached Starlight, who was building a little castle of her own, struggling to turn over the bucket due to the fact she could literally fit inside it, and eventually resorting to using magic. She’d built turrets, and arches, and even added some little seaweed flags, Aqua sitting down and giggling to herself as Starlight sat herself on a sand throne, looking as if she was pretending to be rather high and mighty, a playful pout on her face. “Hello there, funny little one!” she teased, Starlight’s face glowing as she was startled, orange…and then red with embarrassment. “Ah, I was just…just checking! Making sure it was a good throne…!” she tried, crimson as Aqua laughed into her hand. “Mhm? And is it a good throne?” she winked, Starlight sheepishly nodding. “It’s the throniest throne that ever throned!” she declared, becoming tongue tied as Aqua continued to laugh. Starlight gave her a slight side eye, but then looked behind her, and grinned. “Delphis is cool, isn’t he? And I wonder who this wife of his is…maybe we can be friends!” she smiled, Aqua nodding as she once more glanced at the sea spirit, who was now chatting about his little family. The older girl smiled slightly as she noticed how relaxed Golden seemed compared to the night before…perhaps this holiday would be the cure to some of her anxieties, and she didn’t seem at all stressed at that moment. Starlight perched on her shoulder suddenly, startling her ever so slightly, but earning a little boop on the nose from Aqua. “Hey, I heard something about water wrestling earlier?” the glowworm teased, Aqua nodding. “You’d be right, I’m going to take down Terra! Aero will be on my team!” she declared, Aero looking up as she heard her name mentioned. “Team for what?” she grinned, before Star suddenly dunked itself underwater, coming out in front of Delphis and covering him in stardust, which made his hair flick out in a rather funny way. And when it touched his chest, it looked truly as if he was made of water, ripples emerging from the center of him and through the water, Star giggling. It played around with its stardust as Delphis created some rings of bubbles for it to duck and dive through, and then a bubble dolphin for it to ride, Star donning a scuba mask and fins as it flew through the air, everyone giggling. And then…there was a beating of wings, a scarlet macaw descending through the sky and down onto the sands, Delphis beaming. “Fashionably late, mi amor.” he teased, the scarlet macaw squawking and motioning with its wing, where several other flying creatures appeared, a bluebird, butterfly, and bumblebee. Delphis raised his eyebrow, and grinned, before the macaw flew upward and transformed with a twist in the air…into the most graceful, elegant woman any of them had ever seen.

Her hair was tucked neatly in a headdress, one adorned with feathers of various shades, orange, yellow, blue…mainly red. She had two enormous wings that were a rainbow, just as Delphis had said, and a beautiful flowing dress with a small feathery train, landing en pointe and elegantly bowing to everyone present. “Mi amor…? That must mean…” Golden gasped, Aurora smiling sweetly to confirm. She took flight, hovering over the group, and Delphis practically scrambled to his feet, now literally standing atop the water’s surface and on his tiptoes, making a face as she was hovering just out of his reach, definitely on purpose. He huffed and flicked his wrist, raising himself up ever so slightly, causing ripples on the previously still water. Nevertheless, he gave her a nose rub and raised his arms, pulling her down into a hug, her large wings wrapping around him and holding him close. The sight was enough to melt any heart, and Delphis’s spirit heart was as free-flowing as the water- he was lucky to be the ocean, it could hold all his emotions! Aurora smiled, gently touching his nose, and turned to the other fluttering creatures. “Go ahead, don’t be afraid.” she encouraged, the three little creatures looking rather shy, though the butterfly moved and landed on Starlight’s nose, startling her. And then…they all transformed, so now Starlight was being held by someone, looking up to see a blonde, tanned girl with golden butterfly wings and a purple dress, a kind smile on her face. “Hey there!” she giggled, Starlight’s jaw dropping, but managing a shy wave in reply. Flutter then nudged the bumblebee, which made angry buzzing noises in return, though was careful not to sting. In a twist, it transformed into a boy around the same height as Ventus, with wings that looked crystalline and iridescent in the light, beautiful reams of ribbons hanging off his arms and a vibrant yellow outfit contrasting his darker skin and hair, the boy affectionately petting Starlight’s head, who really wasn’t used to this much attention. Finally, the bluebird fluttered to Aurora’s side, turning twice for dramatics and transforming, in an outfit similar to hers, though the wings were smaller and the train less emphatic, though the vibrant feathers on her head were enough to make up for it, sea-green, blue, turquoise…Bluebird gave a cheery wave. “So, what are we doing?” she giggled, Aurora shrugging slightly and Delphis once more lying on his back. “Nothing.” he replied, Bluebird looking surprised, and then jokingly pouted. “I thought that’s what your reef is for!” she retorted, Delphis chuckling as the rest of the family looked at him in confusion. He gave a smile, and waved his hand in the water, a blue glow beginning, one which streaked down into the depths, further than any of them could see. “Instead of explaining, because frankly, expository speeches are quite tiring for an old man…” he suddenly furrowed his brows, looking as if he was a grumpy old man, making everyone giggle, and then relaxed again, “how about I bring the Nothing Reef to you?”

The Nothing Reef…Golden furrowed her eyebrows and looked at everyone, no one had heard of that before and were curious as to what the sea spirit meant. Raising his hands, Delphis gave a quick clap and winked, the tides suddenly began to pull in as if they were coming alive, and the waves grew larger, creating a vortex in the centre where Delphis lay. Star quickly jumped out of the water and flew into Aero’s hands for protection as the young woman stepped back, the boys staring intently as they watched the scene unfold as the water suddenly transformed, and Golden clung tightly to Delphis to avoid getting swept away, it frightened her a little as the water surrounding them began to pick up and become rough and strong, enough to separate them if possible. “Delphis!! We gotta go!” she wailed, worried for herself and her friend, and her family nearby, she fretted about a sudden wave crashing down on them and the beach as it would capture everyone and everything, but Delphis gave her a reassuring smile and held her close in his arms, letting the water spin them around like an amusement park ride. “Fear not, little one!” he giggled, still keeping a close eye on Aurora, the macaw lady watching in amusement and waiting for her husband’s spectacle to reveal what was happening. Figures appeared in the water, and with a spectacular splash, they emerged and landed with a graceful yet powerful finish. Golden’s jaw almost dropped, who were they?

“Hello Delphis!!” said a young girl, she had iridescent colours and flowing hair, a little clear hat that looked bouncy, and a pretty, frilly dress, swimming up to greet him, along with the others who appeared. The girl appeared to be a jellyfish, Golden quickly recognized her as a moon jelly. Another figure, a boy with black and white patterns swam beside her, a commerson dolphin! The second boy, who was bigger and wore a friendly if not mischievous and toothy smile, was very shark-like in appearance. Golden swallowed, hoping he wasn’t thinking of viewing her as food and wanting to take a bite. “Hello my dwellers of the Nothing Reef!” Delphis greeted, the three youngsters swimming close to him and getting a good look at Golden, curious as to why a small human was sitting in Delphis’s arms, looking a little bit apprehensive as they stared down at her. “Ohh…who’s your friend?” asked the commerson dolphin, reaching out to touch her hair, making her flinch a little, though he seemed to simply be curious rather than suspicious. His face lit up suddenly as he grinned at Delphis. “Ohhh!! You’ve adopted another! Is she gonna be Marina’s little sister? Cousin? Where did she come from?” Golden almost dropped out of Delphis’s hold as all these questions started bombarding her mind, almost feeling she should answer them and tell them she wasn’t being adopted! Was she? Her thoughts were quickly cut off by the sound of Delphis bursting into a good natured laugh. “Ahahaha! Oh goodness no, Cody!” he chuckled, patting Golden on the head to try and reassure her, noticing she looked a little speechless. “She’s a visitor here! I am taking her and her family for a little swim! And I needed you all to meet, and look at us! It’s like a biiiig happy family reunion! Oh, and I just need to get Marina…hehe!” Golden began to relax a little, these new and colourful faces all appeared to know Delphis well, much like the flying creatures that accompanied Aurora, they were all their own little cohorts, or even apprentices…Golden suddenly let out a frightened yelp as the young shark appeared suddenly behind her, bearing his sharp fangs. “If you’re not adopting her…'' he grinned, making himself look taller to appear more menacing. “Perhaps she’d make a good snack!” Golden covered her eyes and buried her face into Delphis’s shoulder, she didn’t wanna be shark food! She prepared for a bite but the sound of a fist hitting a skull was heard instead. “MAKO!!” shouted Bluebird, looking a little annoyed as she glared at the mako shark boy. “Don’t be ridiculous! You know better than to eat the beach dwellers!” Mako pouted angrily, nursing his sore noggin where he had been lightly punished. “Ugh, it’s a joke!” he moaned, “Don’t get your feathers all ruffled, birdbrain! Sheesh!”    

Two more figures floated up from below, a manta ray flying through the waves and transforming into a young person, having relatively short black hair and a long cape, one which accented their black robes. They even had two little horns atop their head, a perfect little ray! The final creature, a firefly squid, dove from atop their head, transforming into a beautiful girl wearing a grey gown that glowed with spots of turquoise, markings across their face and hairless head also glowing in the light. Delphis gave them a wave. “Glad you finally joined us.” he grinned, Mantra and Luma swimming over. Luma hopped up behind Delphis, curious as to who the new little one was, whilst Mantra gave a wave over to Bee and Flutter, who were playing with Starlight. Everyone then turned, noticing Yen Sid approaching, who instantly spotted Golden in the water with strange people and raised an eyebrow. Even whilst dressed in a hawaiian shirt, he was still intimidating! The old man approached the crew of sea and sky creatures, Delphis standing up straight as Golden gave her dad a wave, and Aurora gave a sweet smile as he passed her. “Excuse me? Who might you be?” Yen Sid asked, Delphis chuckling for a moment and moving closer to the shore, his friends seeming to shrink behind him slightly at the sight of the sorcerer. “I am Delphis!! Dolphin spirit of the sea!” he grinned, Golden nodding. “Papa, he was the dolphin from earlier! He can transform!” she explained, Delphis giving a slight smile. Oh she had no idea… but Yen Sid seemed much more relaxed now. He knew the legends of Delphis and Aurora, in fact he used to read about them as a boy, so knowing they were real made him feel a sense of wonder and excitement that brought a smile to his face. “Thank you for looking out for my daughter and children in the ocean.” he spoke, Delphis giving a gleeful giggle and turning a little red. “Of course, of course! As the spirit of the sea, it is my duty to protect all life within the waters, whether living there or visiting!” he smiled, gently booping Golden’s nose as he spoke. He moved to the shallows and held out his hand for shaking, the rest of the creatures coming out from behind him and now excited to meet this mysterious man.

Eventually, after introductions and a little playtime, Yen Sid had an idea, watching as Rocket whirred on the sand, using its antenna to play sounds and its wheels to build a pile of sand below, making noises as if it was laughing. He walked back over to Delphis, who was now dunking Oswald in the salty seawater, the rabbit thrashing around and kicking his feet as the cold water washed over him. “Delphis? What do you think about getting to know each other in another way?” Yen Sid asked, Oswald using the distraction as an opportunity to wriggle out of Delphis’s grasp, and swimming around with Cody. Delphis made a happy little squeak at the idea, and nodded. “That’s a wonderful idea! Oh, and Aurora? You could take some of our friends through the skies!” he cheered, Aero immediately looking up at the word ‘sky’ and thinking of flying…she wanted to go!! Aurora chuckled. “I’d be happy to! And rest assured, they will be in safe hands and wings!” she winked, the wayfinders thinking about their gliders and giving a grin. Mickey then tugged at Yen Sid’s shirt, who looked down. “But dad? We don’t have a boat, how can we go on water?” he asked, Percy running over and grinning. “Leave that to me! Our rocket is a special type of rocket, it’s not just a rocket, are you?” he called over to Rocket, who moved its antenna and made the same giggle noise. Percy winked, heading inside the control panel and tinkered with it, finding the combination necessary for the transformation. It transformed into a large vessel, a wheel now in place of the control panel, and a large open area for anyone who wished to ride, complete with a little flag adorned with a treble clef! Aqua and Terra ran over to help him push the boat toward the ocean, Percy finding a captain’s hat and donning it, grinning. “All aboard!”

And so everyone boarded Rocket, who took to the water as naturally as a baby turtle as it was now a boat. Percy took the wheel as he usually did, looking like a proper sea captain leading his crew to an ocean adventure. Golden remained in the water by Delphis’s side, swimming out and wading through the calm waters, beside Mako, Frill, Mantra, Cody and Luma. She could see the fish and the kelp and various clam fish nestled in the warm sand under the water, it was an astonishing sight, and a calming one at that. Scout and Aero sat with Mum in the middle, holding Starlight and Star respectively. Oswald reached his hand over the side of the boat, feeling his fingers run through the cool, crystal clear waters. The brooms stood at the ready beside Percy, like his very own shipmates and were even given hats with numbers on them, it was convenient this way as once they saw Percy with one, they all wanted a hat, so rather than squabbling to have it, each one had their own so they were happy. Mickey sat next to Yen Sid, holding onto his shirt and keeping close to him, Julius did the same with Mum as neither liked being near the deep water too much. As for the Wayfinders, Ventus was fascinated by everything he saw, much like a young boy would be, leaning a little close to the side of the boat. Terra stood by him, standing up in the boat to get a grand view of the open sea, they had all seen beaches and the sea before, but never this vast. Aqua giggled at the boys as they drank in the scene with great enthusiasm, before noticing the slightly nervous looks from Julius and Mickey as they stayed close next to the adults. “Hey, are you two okay? You’re not seasick, are you?” she asked kindly, sitting down nearer to them and putting a hand on Mickey’s shoulder. He shook his head no, and gave her a small smile. “Aww it’s okay, Aqua.” he said softly. “I’m a bit nervous around deep water, I can’t swim that well and…I gotta admit it’s a bit scary, haha!” Julius nodded in agreement to that, clinging a little tighter to Mum’s dress and trying to huddle under her arm for extra safety. “Same here!” he mewed nervously. “Cats have water issues, so no deep ocean for me either!” Yen Sid and Mum were a bit amused by what they said, although they did try to comfort them about their understandable fears. Mum petted Julius on the head, making him purr a little, while Yen Sid gently took Mickey’s hand and patted him gently on his back, gestures he’d always do to ease him when he was feeling nervous. “My boys…whatever has gotten into you both?” he asked, grinning a little but trying not to make it obvious. “Yes, you two were having so much fun earlier.” said Mum, a small giggle in her gentle and maternal voice as she started to comfort Julius, rubbing his shoulders. Even Scout reached out to pet her small brother to try and relax him. “Well, that was in the shallow end!” Julius said. “No big waves, no deep end, nothing like that!” Overhearing their concerns, Delphis slowed down and moved closer to Rocket, reaching up to lift his upper body over the side, Golden giggling as she clung onto his shoulders. Delphis gazed at Mickey and Julius, wearing a kind and understanding smile as he chuckled, reaching out a hand to them both. “Please do not fret.” he began in a honeyed voice as he spoke to the two. “There is nothing to fear out here, not even the deep! The ocean might be big, but it’s beautiful with so many wonders and discoveries! Rest assured, my friends and I will do everything to protect you, out here you will be safe. Down here in this ocean, I know all the sea creatures and they know me! We all do our best to maintain that each and every one of you is safe and happy! I hope that helps, even for a little bit, how do you feel?” Mickey and Julius looked at each other, both surprised by how attentive Delphis was to them, and also thankful to him for trying to ease their fears. They smiled and nodded, and with an encouraging push from Mum, Yen Sid and Aero, they stood up and approached the side of the boat, albeit slowly and steadily. “You’ve got this!” smiled Aero, happy to see they were feeling a tad better, and it would be much more enjoyable for them rather than to be scared. “Are you certain, dad?” Mickey asked, looking for one more extra word of motivation from the sorcerer, who nodded gently. “Indeed, there is nothing to fear.” Yen Sid said soothingly. “Everything is alright, my boy. And like Delphis said, with him and the others here, we have nothing to fear, and only our thanks for being there for all of us.” Delphis grinned, winking at Golden as she held onto his shoulders, he gave a playful backflip, landing with a big splash back into the water. Although Golden coughed and spluttered, she couldn’t help but laugh hysterically at her friend’s antics, moves he’d pull off even with a small girl on his back! “Of course I would!” Delphis cried, trilling like a cheerful dolphin as he bounded through the water, taking one splash after another. “It’s not just an obligation as the spirit of the sea, but it’s also a big adventure for me! Never in a million years have I been in the company of so many people! I daresay this is one of the happiest days of my life!” Mako, Mantra and Luma followed close, mimicking his moves and splashing water back at him in a playful competition, it was as if they all tried to see who could knock him off balance first, but Delphis was quick and knew their strategy, so he manoeuvred around and splashed them back with a bigger jet of water. As he laughed at his small victory, Delphis flipped over and settled Golden on his belly, allowing him to keep her safe with him as he floated and looked up into the sky, spying the beautiful rainbow feathers that adorned the bright blue sky. “Oh mi amor!!” he called out with a wave of his hand, blushing almost as crimson as Aurora herself. The sky spirit laughed, lowering herself down to get closer to him. Nearing his face, the two legendary spirits rubbed their noses together, giggling like a young couple on a date. There were various ‘awwws’ from each of the witnessing individuals, Frill, Luma, Flutter and Bluebird were all very endeared to see the loving gesture between them, Mako meanwhile stuck out his tongue and put a finned finger in his mouth. “Ewwww gimme a break, will ya?!” he grimaced, with Cody giving the most smug smirk he could at that comment and nudging Mako. “Oh don’t get on at them!” he said, arching an eyebrow almost as intensely as Yen Sid. “You would so love to try that with Marina, wouldn’t you lover shark?” Mako swiped at him, almost taking Cody’s head off. “Shut up!!” he snarled, his cheeks turning a bright pink that contrasted brilliantly with his darker colours. “You don’t know anything, Cody! So quit your yapping!” Cody was not deterred, and kept up his smirk as he changed his voice, beginning to mock Mako as he continued. “Oh Marina, you’re so pretty!” he grinned, sounding like a lovey-dovey Mako as the shark boy bared his sharp teeth furiously at this take on him. “You’re just so sweet and kind, and more beautiful than any pearl I’ve ever seen! Would you like to go out with MEEEHEHEHEE!” Cody was suddenly swimming for his life as he burst into laughter, evading the jaws and ferocious splash attacks from Mako who began to give chase. “I’M GONNA EAT YOU!!” shouted Mako, as if catching the smell of blood. Cody was enjoying himself way too much to be intimidated. “Only if you catch me first!”                                

The Wayfinders all took to the skies as Scout stared off the side of the boat, they were practically flying over reef after reef, and she caught sight of so many creatures. “The water’s so clear here, you can see…everything!” she grinned, Delphis giving a nod and flipping back over, so now Golden was (very excitedly) standing on his shoulders. “Yes, the deep is absolutely spectacular, and so full of life! I was formed at the bottom of a trench all that time ago, even before I met Aurora! And down there are turtles, sharks, jellyfish, eels, whales-” he was cut off by a gasp from Golden. “There are whales here? Where? I want to see them!” she grinned, Delphis giving a slight chuckle. “Slow down there little lady, there’s none here right now, but…” he trailed off, Golden meeting Yen Sid’s eyes for a moment, who had a slight smile on his face. The old sorcerer stepped forward. “Well there’s one whale here right now.” he replied, Delphis looking up, down, left, right, and being very confused, but Golden nodded. “Yes! My favourite whale.” she giggled, Delphis thinking about it for a moment and realising what she meant exactly, giving a smile. “Yes! Oh, can I be your favourite dolphin? Pleaaaaaase?” he begged, his face going cutesy and Golden immediately nodding and giggling as she swayed atop his shoulders, nearly losing her balance as she laughed. “You’re all my favourites!” she crowed, Cody and Mako stopping their squabble after hearing that. Mako smirked. “Hear that, Cody? I’m her favourite! Shark WIN!” he grinned, Cody playfully nudging him and giving him a knock on the head. “We’re ALL her favourites you clown! Gosh, are there anemones in your ears or something?” he chuckled, Mako once more baring his teeth. “I’m the favouritest favourite” he pouted, looking up at Golden, “right?” Golden thought about it, she didn’t want to upset him…so she gave a slight nod. “You’re a cool shark!” she replied, Mako giving a very toothy grin and hopping up next to her, Delphis helping him out by summoning a wave as they followed the boat. “Thanks! And you’re a cool human. As a reward, you won’t be a snack.” he winked, Golden now knowing he was joking and both of them giggling.

They continued moving through the water, Mako remembering that the old sorcerer was her Papa and becoming curious. “Say, kid. How’s that old guy your papa? He’s old!” he asked, Delphis immediately shooting him a look. “Mako, don’t be rude. It’s the same as us, remember? I’m billions of years older than you.” he replied, Golden holding onto Delphis a little tighter and considering the question. “He adopted me when I was five.” she finally said, Mako being relentlessly curious but understanding why she didn’t want to explain. He didn’t like to talk about the years before Delphis, but…something told him that it might help. He slowly began formulating a plan, and then they caught up to the boat, Mako pointing ahead as more ships came into view. “Tourist alert! Get ready for loud music, stupid laughter and alcohol!” He rolled his eyes, dropping beneath the water and the others joining him. Delphis moved a bit closer to the boat, giving Golden a smile. “They don't like tourists. They think they’re loud and…a lot of them can be very disrespectful to marine life. But there are also good tourists too, these guys just don’t like interacting too much with them.” he explained, showing Golden a little bar on the side of the boat for her to hold onto, so she didn’t have to tread water. “Stay there just a second! I’m going to surprise them!” he grinned, switching back into a dolphin and Percy following, a few of the brooms monitoring Golden to make sure she was still holding on. They got closer to the vessels ahead, Mum finding some binoculars and watching, whilst Oswald flew up to the top of the boat and sat at the highest point, overlooking everything with a smile. 

The dolphin spirit tore through the ocean, kicking his tail as he increased speed further, ready to make a splash and soak some tourists. However, as the group got closer, they noticed something was a little off about the largest vessel. The captain looked down just as the dolphin emerged, gasping and pointing to his crew. “A dolphin!” he cried, the rest of the men springing into action. Mum watched through her binoculars, a frown appearing on her face as she observed the men, actions Delphis couldn’t see due to being below and swimming alongside the trawler, ducking underneath and not hearing nor seeing anything. Mum tried to call out and warn him, but he was too far away. Yen Sid approached her. “Mum? What’s wrong?” he asked, Mum continuing to look through the binoculars and pointing. “That ship, it’s not a tourist boat at all! It’s full of poachers!” she yelled, everyone else running to the side to take a look, Golden craning her neck and now worried for Delphis. The crew pulled out a net and put it right in the dolphin’s path, who became startled and tried to break free, though he was just dragged further in each time. “We’ve got it!” One of the men called, three of them starting to pull the net out of the water and Delphis thrashing, angrily squeaking in what could be translated as several curses. Above, Aurora and the rest were all flying, but noticed Golden holding onto the side, Ventus pointing down. “Hey, what’s up with her? Wasn’t Delphis just with them a second ago?” he asked, Aurora frowning slightly. “Strange…unless he wishes to show them a trick, he usually doesn’t leave anyone unattended. Let’s head down, just as a precaution.” she spoke, giving a comforting smile toward Aqua, who had begun to look quite worried. Heading down slowly so as not to harm anyone due to the pressure change, they drifted downward, where Golden remained holding onto the side and everyone was observing the ensuing chaos. 

“I hope Delphis will be okay…” Golden fretted, Yen Sid gently leaning over the side toward her. “My child, I’m sure he will. I have read many legends in my time about this incredible man. As the spirit of the sea, a few mere poachers will be no hassle at all.” he replied, Golden giving a slightly relieved smile and then looking down. Mako was right below her, jokingly pretending to bite her ankles, and gave her a wave. He then turned, and suddenly seemed to yell, zipping away right toward the other boats. Upon reaching the net, he bit it so hard that it snapped, allowing Delphis to jump free as he leaped over the boat, though the crew were determined. They threw another net toward him, and then a harpoon- it missed, barely grazing his fin as he tried to transform into another creature, but his flipper was entangled in a net, preventing it. The surrounding boats formed a circle, putting out their own nets to ensure the dolphin couldn’t escape. Mako felt his heart in his mouth at the sight…shaking in place, he raced forward, and tore a hole in one of the nets, trying to stop them taking Delphis aboard…but it was no use. Delphis noticed him and gave a comforting whistle, but then was dragged onto the boat, leaving Mako alone in the ring of nets. Everyone watched the sight in horror, Percy awaiting orders on what he should do- nuking or ramming were his first thoughts- but Aurora already had a plan. Leading Bee, Flutter and Bluebird, she propelled herself off the deck so hard that the entire boat was sent slightly backward by the force, Aurora blazing through the skies like a very angry meteor. “Hold on my love…” she gritted her teeth, suddenly striking downward and right toward the boat, turning into a macaw and scratching at the poachers with her talons. The oceans came alive in a flurry, too, the other residents of the sea realizing their king was in danger, and his entire pod appeared to fight for him. Frill hopped aboard the boat and bashed one of the men with her large hat, causing him to fall overboard, where Luma entangled him in her tentacles and dragged him down. Cody used his whistle to call even more creatures forward as Frill returned to the water, feeling a little dried out, but he then noticed Mako was practically frozen in the middle of the scene, rushing toward him and dragging him out of the nets as the rest of the vessels tried to get closer to the largest one, hoping to help the crew with whatever attack was happening. 

As flurries of birds and fish alike grew, Yen Sid knew they had to do something, the broomies continuing to watch over Golden. Quickly, he instructed the wayfinders to draw out their keyblades, Aero pulling out her wand alongside them, and the masters all began a spell, one intended to keep the main boat still so that Delphis could be pulled off it, as he felt himself drying up. The apprentices soon joined, except Golden who was still in the water, and everyone cast the spell as one, the other vessels being pushed away and the main boat unable to move, allowing everyone to save Delphis much faster. Mum moved over to the side of the boat, the waves becoming rougher and crashing around them as the oceans teemed with creatures, and held out a hand for Golden. “Hurry onto the boat, quickly! Take my hand!” she instructed, Golden trying and managing to clasp her palm, but finding the ocean current made her slip. Still keeping one hand on the metal bar, she tucked her feet under and stood up on it, using her other hand to grab Mum, who tried to lift her as they rocked and swayed. Golden’s foot, though, was seemingly caught in the metal, and more and more creatures began to appear, causing her to lose balance and fall, where she was completely submerged. She tried to call out for anyone to help her, but found herself tumbling down, down, deeper down into the water, where her foot still felt attached to something. Her ears picked up a sound, though, as she held her breath…a song from the deep.

As Mum and the broomies tried to search the waters for Golden, everyone managed to keep the boat still. Not intending to lose, the Captain held up a harpoon right over Delphis- and was promptly kicked overboard by Aurora, who was, to put it lightly, very pissed off. As the rest of the vessels began to retreat, Aurora rushed over to Delphis, who was lying under the net and very dried out, slightly grazed by the harpoon. “Are you alright, mi amor?” she asked, Delphis giving a slight nod and Aurora using her wind to pick him up and gently shake off the net, the dolphin leaping down into the water and being surrounded by the hordes of fish. His wound healed instantaneously, due to being in his domain, and he gave a wave to the Symphonus family, indicating he was fine. However, he then picked up the sensation that someone was down there, and peered at the boat a little closer…Golden was no longer holding onto the side. Feeling himself grow worried, he shook off the concerns of his subjects and the water became calmer again as they retreated, and the dolphin spirit dove down into the waters, hoping to find wherever Golden was and return her safely. Meanwhile, Yen Sid did a head count, and upon realising she was missing, sighed slightly. “Not even gonna pretend to be surprised at this point.” Oswald quipped, Mum looking worriedly at Aurora. “I hope she’ll be safe.” she mumbled, the bird spirit giving her a reassuring smile and gently putting a wing around her. “She’s in the hands of the man I trust most in the entire world. As the ruler of the seas, he’ll do everything he can to save her. And if there’s anyone who I believe to be capable of protecting submerged humans, it’s my husband.” She replied, Aqua moving over to Mum and touching her shoulder too. “Golden is strong, she just needs to believe that more often.” she smiled, the Nothing Reef crew suddenly appearing on the other side of the boat and startling some of the apprentices. Yen Sid smiled at Aqua’s words, glad they connected, and glanced toward the oceanic group that appeared.

Mako looked…pretty upset, to say the least, and was now hanging onto Cody like a small child, who tried to shake him off as the shark clutched his arm. “What’s with him?” Oswald asked, Julius staring down at the shark for a second. He looked lost, and lonely, a feeling Julius really understood, feeling empathetic toward the shark, which was surprising considering the amount of differences between them. “Leave him be, he just needs time.” Julius replied, a strange maturity coming into his tone that made Oswald’s ears stand up in surprise slightly. He glanced at Mickey as the cat went to go see Percy and help him with the boat, both of them wondering if their older brother was okay. Frill gently rubbed against Mako in a comforting way, but the shark looked pretty distraught, though he tried to keep up a happy front. He didn’t look like he wanted to talk about it, though.

Down in the depths, Golden found herself struggling for breath, her vision blurry and salt stinging her eyes, the girl looking up and spotting the surface, which looked like a ceiling. The air in her chest shrunk due to the pressure change, the girl feeling her head spin and a dizziness come over her, woozy and confused as stars started to dance before her eyes in momentary flashes of blackness. Her ears continued to ring as a giggle rang out amongst the bubbles and splashes all around her, and that same feeling of being pulled continued, as she felt herself move deeper and deeper down into the waters. As her vision blurred once more, she heard that same laughter continuing, and wondered where it was from, hoping it might be Delphis playing a trick, and that he’d got free from the net and was now messing with her. As the black flashes became more and more frequent, the girl lost all consciousness, and below, the turquoise spires of a submerged sandstone city were beginning to come into view. It seemed Itar would have a young visitor once more.

Air flooded Golden’s lungs as she gasped for breath, water leaving her system as she coughed and hacked up droplets which pooled on a marbled floor, iridescent and almost perfectly reflecting her face. She stared down for a moment, the dizziness fading, and reached up to rub her eyes, groaning slightly. She raised her head, and yelped. A woman was staring at her! She had long black hair and bright aquamarine eyes, giving a warm smile. As soon as Golden met her eyes, she held up her hands, gentle in her movements and friendly. “No need to fear, little one! You are safe here, you were going to drown, so I saved you!” she smiled, Golden hesitated a moment, getting her head around what she just heard. She had been saved…but that voice was definitely not Delphis. She rubbed at her eyes, which she regretted as the salty water coating her hands stung her slightly. She soon adjusted her vision again, and stared up at the woman. “What…? Who are you?” Golden stammered softly, slowly adjusting to her new surroundings, the marble structures, the watery scenery, and this…woman, who’s scaly skin was shimmering in the light. “Oh, silly me!” the woman giggled, giving Golden a rather sassy yet innocent smile. “I’m Merlie, I work around here with my sisters right here! We take care of this little place all for our great ruler, Allura!” Golden stumbled a little as she got to her feet, feeling her head spin a little. She stared back at Merlie, and noticed behind her the two aforementioned figures, her sisters. They looked much alike, aside from a few differences to indicate they were sisters. Stepping back, Golden felt a sense of apprehension as she glimpsed at all three of the newcomers. “Where…am I?” she asked softly, one of the other ladies approached her, looking a tad more friendly than Merlie, offering her a scaly hand. “Come with us to see Allura.” She said in a warm voice. “She will tell you everything! She might seem scary, but when she discovers what happened to you, and how we rescued you, she’ll be the friendliest in all of Atlantis you’ve ever met! Aside from me of course.” Golden retracted her hand, but regardless of doing so, the woman took her hand anyway. There was a slimy, sticky substance that coated her palm, and Golden couldn't shake it off, she felt disgust overtake her brain as she vigorously shook her hand to rid herself of the sticky slime. “Ewww! What the heck?!” she squirmed, almost wiping her hand on her shirt but quickly refraining from doing so. “What is this slimy stuff? Get it off! Get it off!” Merlie moved closer, taking advantage of the situation and handing Golden a small cloth, shooting a glare at her sister. “Stelle! Don’t be so rude to our guest!” She sneered mischievously, watching as Golden quickly wiped down the slime, and dropping the used cloth as it dripped with slime, grimacing at it. “Yuck! What is with you slimy people! You’re not smooth and squishy like Delphis…” The three women stiffened at the mention of the name of the sea spirit, Merlie scowled, turning to each of her sisters as she stood up tall, brushing herself off and looking a little more presentable to Golden and she reached out, taking the young sorcerer by the shoulders and leading her out of the room and through a marble passageway, it had a watery atmosphere as if they still submerged underwater, Golden could have sworn she saw a small fish swim past her, followed by a trail of bubbles. Golden wanted to flinch away and run, feeling a strong uncertainty as she was led through the hall, given her history of people who kept trying to kidnap her or even kill her. She hoped that Yen Sid and the others were looking for her, along with Delphis and Aurora, and that the former wasn’t hurt or captured, which weighed on her mind quite a bit. “Where are you taking me?” she asked quietly, “Don’t get any ideas, will ya? Or my papa will beat your a-” Merlie placed a long finger on Golden’s lips, shushing her in a somewhat playful but more so condescending way. “Hush you! You are permitted to stay quiet until you are spoken to.” she said quickly. “It is rude to speak out of turn in front of Allura.” Golden rolled her eyes, sticking her tongue out at the dark haired woman who looked more than ready to scat her across the head, one of her sisters took her by her arms and gently coaxed her to stop. “Now Merlie, let’s not be hasty, eh?” Merlie pouted, almost pulling her arm away, her stare being incredibly intense, Golden almost felt it herself. “Don’t boss ME around, Emilie!” Emilie giggled, quickly wrapping her arms around Golden in an almost protective way, and patting her on the head. Golden was about to snark and bite at the woman, not enjoying the sudden act of being hugged and patted on the head, and once again covered in slime. “Let’s remember, sisters…” Emilie continued, “This poor mortal has probably had a very bad bump on the head! She’s not all herself right now…” Golden was outraged, she was not hurt, hoping she wasn’t at least. What was with these three?! “Not herself…sure! Just a simple mortal from above.” Merlie sneered, “But with any luck, she’ll be dealt with soon.” Leading Golden further through the passageway, the three sisters took Golden into a wider room that went to the outside. Golden found herself in awe at what was in front of her, a city with a view, stunning pillars, a street that expanded across the entire city, a populace of fish swimming in and out of buildings in the town, there were even little trees among the street, growing little fruits. It was an inspiring sight, and Golden couldn’t take her eyes off the place. “Wow, this place looks…so beautiful!” she exclaimed in wonder, her eyes twinkling in the bright light, as if the sun was shining underwater. She recalled a story Yen Sid once read to her in a storybook, about an underwater city where mermaids and seafolk lived in harmony. Could it be the same one? Golden couldn’t believe it, but at the same time, she could, and she felt incredibly excited and amazed. “Is this place…really what I think it is?” Merlie, Emilie and Stelle shared a small giggle, quietly conversing between themselves as Golden drank in the scene, completely mesmerised. Clearing her throat, Stelle took Golden by the shoulders, leading her down a set of stairs, followed closely by Emilie and Merlie. “Let’s go down here…” Stelle snickered in a quiet tone, whispering close to Golden’s ear, which made her shift a little. “The throne room is through this hall down stairs, and when you meet Allura, I expect you to behave, dear girl…and don’t take that lightly…” Golden did not meet Stelle’s eye, yet her curiosity peaked at the mention of Allura, these odd women seemed to mention her a lot, and sound like they held her in high regard. Stelle went on, giving Golden a somewhat gentle squeeze of her shoulders as she lowered the tone of her voice, giving a sort of friendly manner of speaking. “And if you’re wondering…yes, you’re right.” she said. “This place is wondrous, isn’t it? Atlantis, the underwater city, probably not a concept you mere humans are familiar with! Regardless, you will feel much welcome here, and you’ll soon grow accustomed to everything once you have a talk with our ruler. She’s very generous and all-giving, so if I were you, I wouldn’t turn down anything she will offer in regards to your safety.” To Golden, this sounded neither benevolent nor malevolent, knowing full well she’d need to see for herself just who this ‘Allura’ was, and how she’d treat a newcomer like Golden who happened to land in this vast city. Part of her hoped she’d be given the privilege of getting a tour of Atlantis, the view from her current point was much too beautiful to turn away from, it really felt like a fairy tale world from the ocean, one of which she had heard many years ago. Stopping at a pair of large, ornate doors, Merlie gave them a push, opening them up to a wide, well spread-out room, filled from the floor to the ceiling, as well as the walls and pillars, with beautiful decorations. Fish ornaments, walls covered with seahorses, shells, mammals like whales and dolphins. Golden smiled at them, the dolphin definitely reminded her of Delphis, and Cody. The little shark right beside them was a reminder of Mako, how his sassy nature was already burned into her mind enough to recall him just from seeing a picture of a shark. There were pots of plants with fancy looking foliage, much like kelp or small trees from the sandy bottoms of the sea. A beautiful iridescent chandelier hung from the middle of the ceiling, lighting up the room like a gorgeous ballroom. Golden looked straight ahead, and almost did a double take. At the end of the room was a large throne, decorated with shells, pearls and little ornate crustaceans, but what took her by surprise the most was who was sitting on the throne. An imposingly tall and mysterious looking woman, who had a long tail instead of legs, a siren…or a mermaid? Golden knew about these creatures and they were known to inhabit the waters of Atlantis, according to the stories. But the mermaids were beautiful and resembled humans in so many ways, inside and out. This one however had many attributes of sealife, plenty of scales, fins on her body and around her face, her hands were webbed and clawed at the tips…On top of her long, dark and tentacled locks was a crown, a signal to her status as the ruler of Atlantis, along with the throne. “Well well.” Allura mused aloud, her voice smooth yet mystifying, giving an eerie sensation throughout the room. “It appears we have a visitor. Not someone I’ve ever seen before…it looks like we have discovered some treasure.” Golden arched an eyebrow, wondering what in the world this siren meant by that statement. “Excuse me?” Golden said softly, a hint of anger in her voice. Allura’s mouth curled into a smile, though it wasn’t a sweet one that offered a welcoming presence, it seemed sinister, and given how quiet the sisters were, they didn’t appear to want to speak out of turn. “You are a sight to behold, like a diamond hidden among the rocks.” Allura went on, she rose from the throne, and Merlie, Stelle and Emilie slid back from Golden, bowing before the great siren before them. “Your grace!” said Stelle in a high voice. “This human was drowning! So I went out and swam to save her, if it weren’t for me, well she’d be dead!” Merlie glared in her sister’s direction, her stare like a sword piercing the skin slowly as Stelle froze still, as did Golden as she witnessed. “Always gotta be in the spotlight, eh Stelle?!” she snarled, her lip curling like an angry dog. “You saw I was there too, I helped! You’d still be out there trying to reel her into the city if I wasn’t there!” Stelle shook her head, wagging a finger condescending at her angry sister. “Oh nooo! That would be the opposite! You’re so slow you’d be there for a millennia! Floating with a human corpse under your arm, how droll Merlie!” Emilie was already having enough, bonking her sisters harshly on the heads amongst their bickering, causing them both to yelp in pain, Stelle moreso with her exaggerated cry. “OW!! What was that for, Emilie?!” she wailed, clutching at her head and trying to sooth it. Emilie merely sighing. “You two are clearly delusional,” she uttered, sounding completely bored and apathetic with them. “You couldn’t even catch a simple mackerel, both of you. You needed my help and that’s why this creature is even here. You dunderheads needed help when you hatched.” Stelle was offended, and was about to slug Emilie hard, there was enough force powering up in her hand to throw her across the room. “You little seaslug! How dare you!! Oho, now you’re going to get it, Allura wouldn’t have you talking like that in her presence! Now, apologise dear sister.” Emilie looked as deadpan as a partygoer at a funeral. “Nah, I won't. I said my bit.” Stelle saw red and grabbed ahold of Emilie’s shoulders, ready to claw her eyes out, yet the bigger siren looked completely unafraid. “I’ll show you, YOU NASTY LITTLE-” Allura held up her webbed hand, silencing the bickering siblings, scowling hard at them with a particularly intense stare. “Enough.” she said in a chilled voice. “I won’t have you arguing like a pair of small fry. We do have a guest among us, and I’d appreciate you behaving at best in front of her.” Golden sighed, shifting her feet a little on the marble floors, admiring the seashell design painted into them, which was a good distraction from the arguing sirens. “About time someone put a stop to their stupidity.” she murmured under her breath, not lifting her head, she was already fed up and wanted to get back home, but not before hopefully exploring the beautiful city outside, once she got away from these noisy yet intimidating sirens. “You’re right, Allura, my sincerest apologies!” Stelle exclaimed, bowing once more to the siren by the throne, giving her a toothy grin and a nervous eye twitch. “Here, let me bestow upon you our new arrival! Come on, dearie. There’s no need to be shy! Allura is kind, and warm, she’ll make you feel like you’re a true Atlantean!” She tried to push Golden further forward toward Allura, but the young girl dug her heels in, refusing to move, she hated being forced to do anything by anyone bigger than her, she had developed an instinct to run or push them away, Stelle grew agitated by her behaviour, and gave Golden a harsh push, knocking her down in front of the ruling siren. “You are being very inconsiderate and rude, girly!” Stella yelled, standing over Golden with a threatening stance. “You are standing, or in this case lying in front of Allura, ruler of Atlantis! But now, it looks like you’re gonna face a harsh punishment!” Merlie grinned maliciously, moving closer over to Golden as well to intimidate her further, feeling a power rush at seeing her knocked over. “Oh dear little one,” she giggled, “You’re in for it now, Allura is going to shishkebab you!!” Emilie recoiled at that, and Stelle did a double take, almost throwing up at the mere mention of ‘shishkebab.’ “URGH!! Merlie!” She groaned, Merlie giving a smirk and Golden looking up in fear. “WHAT?!” she cried, Merlie stifling a giggle, before a mighty yell silenced them all. “QUIET!” Allura roared, all three siren sisters shrinking back, Emilie even turning into her humanoid form out of fear. Allura’s brightly lit, searing green eyes seemed to survey them all in turn, before they faded down to their usual blue, and her demure temperament reappeared. “Child, approach me. I wish to look at you.” She smiled, Golden pushing herself up off the floor and standing, brushing off her robes, before discovering a ripped hole in her sleeve- something to worry about, or rather, play with, later. She stood in front of the throne, Allura giving her a warm smile, and tried to return it, though it came across rather nervous and fearful. Nevertheless, the siren stared her down, her gaze not nearly as intimidating. In fact, Golden watched in awe as the siren began to shapeshift, her tentacled grey hair becoming beautiful blonde locks, grey skin turning fair, encrusted with little pearls in a similar fashion to acne, whilst her outfit changed too, into a white dress similar to that of a nymph. Due to being the queen of Itar, she had 3 forms, and this one was the least likely to frighten the girl, although Golden still felt herself tremble when she stared into her eyes. The monarch smiled, starting to braid a few strands of her hair, all whilst looking Golden up and down. “It isn’t every day we have a young visitor here in our city. But clearly it is not your fault, no, you look as if you have your wits about you, child. Nevertheless, I shall personally see to it that you are taken care of, within these walls.”

The beach was calm, quiet even. There was no one there playing on the yellow, sandy shore, nor anyone cooling their feet in the gentle waves that splashed upon the land. Apart from the calls of seagulls, there was silence, until the ginormous splash in the middle of the water as Rocket anchored itself up against the beach, Percy stood up first, hopping out onto the small bridge beside the rocky shoreline, the broomies quickly following behind him. Yen Sid followed, offering a hand to Mum to help her step down, followed by Scout, who looked rather unnerved. “Why aren’t we still looking??” she cried, worry oozing in her voice. “Golden could be still out there! What if…she’s drowning?” Aurora had transformed back into a macaw, perching on a nearby rock and resting, her wings giving a gentle flap as she looked at Scout, a soft, kind look in her eyes. “Fear not, little one.” she said, the sunlight bouncing off of her red feathers. “My beloved knows every section of the ocean, he’ll find her, there won’t be anything down there he will miss.” Scout felt a sense of comfort from the sky spirit’s words, but still could feel that certain sense of unease knowing her little sister wasn’t with them, safe and unharmed. The Wayfinders were now back on the beach, Ventus was a little shaken, but tried to look brave in front of his older friends, not wanting to worry or fear the worst. “Aqua?” he asked, “Do you think Golden will be okay? It’s a huge ocean, there’s more water than there is land! We’d need a miracle to find her.” Aqua could feel how nervous Ventus was feeling, she too worried for her, regardless, she smiled softly and placed a hand on Ven’s shoulder to comfort him. “I think…yes, she’ll be alright, Ven.” she told him, “She might be young, and little, but she’s much stronger and braver than we make her out to be.” Terra chuckled, ruffling Ven’s slightly wet hair. “Kinda like you, eh Ven?” he smirked, Ventus giggled and tried to shove away Terra’s hand, feeling assured by their playfulness, which was better than worrying themselves sick. Watching the three of them, even Yen Sid felt at ease again. “And if there’s anyone who can bring her back safely,” Aqua continued confidently, “it’s Delphis! And he’s got his friends backing him up, so he won’t be alone in his search.” Oswald nodded with great enthusiasm, his ears flopping back and forth. “Aqua’s right!” he declared, pumping his fist into the air. “You might not know this Ven, but the kind of adventures we have? Well, Golden USUALLY ends up in some sort of conundrum, I mean this time she could have her heart stolen, or maybe smashed, buried, torn up and thrown away, etc! Whatever happens she’ll turn up right as rain afterward!” There were two light smacks delivered to the back of his head, spinning it in a cartoonish fashion around his neck and startling him, grabbing his head. Oswald noticed his two brothers giving him a glare that could give Yen Sid competition. “OSWALD THE LUCKY RABBIT!” Julius exclaimed, his hands placed firmly on his hips, Mickey followed his movements. “THAT is our sister you’re talking about!” he cried, “How can you talk about this so casually? And look at Ven! I think you broke him with what you just said!” Oswald turned to look at Ventus, whose mouth was gaping and even Terra and Aqua were lost for words. “Hey hey, calm down! It’s a joke!” Oswald said, a little flustered as he tried to defend himself. “I was uh, just trying to lighten the mood! I mean somebody has to, right?” Bee and Flutter gently flew over to where Aurora was perched, looking at each other in thought. Flutter landed on the rock, staying close to her queen. “So, what’s the plan from here?” she asked, “We can’t go into the water like Delphis, and certainly not as deep. What do we do, Aurora?” Aurora looked out to the sea, the waves were glittery and sparkling as the clouds parted ways to bring in the sun, shining down on the waters, it made Aurora smile, she too would part the clouds when she and Delphis met up again after being away from each other, and he’d be directly under the sun’s rays as she descended down to see him. “We should help.” Aurora answered, her voice gentle and soft like a morning breeze. “Every one of us, together. I only wish we could get down lower into the ocean, we sky spirits aren’t quite as adapted to it as the sea spirits, and you humans can only take so much pressure underwater…If only I had the power to change that.” Yen Sid approached Aurora, his hands folded much like they would be under his sleeves, though he was currently sleeveless. “Aurora, it means so much that you want to help us rescue Golden.” he spoke, “We will certainly come up with a solution, and with Delphis and his team already on the search, we’ll no doubt find her before sundown. And please, no pressure on yourself to help us, even with your current powers, you’re already a big help to us.” Percy gazed over at Rocket, an idea forming in his head, he could almost turn into light right here and now like a little lightbulb. “We may not be able to dive deep underwater ourselves…” he said, a grin forming on his face, “...However, there is a way we can achieve it! Leave it to me everyone!” He sprinted over to Rocket, placing his hand on the front, and smiled down at it as he was addressing a person, he clearly valued Rocket just as much as everyone else he knew. “Rocket, old friend!” he cheered joyfully, “It’s time to make some adjustments, we are going to need a lot of power after this, but everyone shall be patting their knees once we reach the deep dark abyss! If Lumen is down there I dread to think what it’s like…but if it IS black and dark down there won’t be much to see anyway…” Percy set to tickering with Rocket, laying out a blueprint and pulling a tool box out of his hat like a show magician. The blueprints contained pieces related to a submarine, and Percy already had parts for one at the ready to start. He picked up a spanner, and held onto a screw, removing some small parts from Rocket, and replacing them with submarine pieces. “This shouldn’t take long.” he whispered, half to himself, half to Rocket. “And with any luck we should be down there with Delphis, searching for our little Lumen. By Jove, I hate to think how she feels out there in the ocean, all alone…no one…feeling…a-abandoned?” His thoughts drifted, his work on Rocket slowly coming to a stop as a feeling of dread overwhelmed him, and he completely forgot where he was. It wasn’t until a small tap on his shoulder brought him out of his daze, feeling startled, he turned around to see. “Percy?” It was Starlight, who looked a little worried. Percy quickly realising what he was doing and what he was thinking, he shook his head with a small smile, gently placing his hand under Starlight to hold her. “Oh, Starlight! Forgive me I was…” he gazed back at the spare parts in the tool box, his eyes flickering between them and the little glow worm. “I was just a bit distracted, these submarine parts can be a bit confusing! It’s been some time since I did work like this on ol’ Rocket. Fear not, we shall be down in the waters soon!” Picking up the spanner again, Percy went back to work, Starlight giving him a little nod as she floated back to the others. She landed lightly in Mickey’s hands, and he cradled her close to him as he sat on the warm sand beside Oswald and Julius, and received a gentle ruffle of the ears from Yen Sid, who sat by them on the rocks. “Hmmm, the sun is still high.” Scout mused out loud, staring up at the sky and squinting from the bright star. “I hope it won’t be dark by the time we can dive down.” Yen Sid peered up at the sky a little, it looked beautiful, not a cloud in sight, and the sky was a calm, gentle blue. He looked to Scout, offering her a look of reassurance. “Percy shall be quick, he’s very good at this sort of thing.” he said to her. “Aside from magic, he was always good at engineering, he managed to infuse the two to make something quite extraordinary, much like he is doing with Rocket now.” Scout and the boys were amused, it appeared Percy was always full of surprises, and had something new about it each time, there were several reasons why they all liked him a lot, and he kept giving them reasons to do so. “Once inside this submarine…” Aurora said in a honeyed voice, still in her macaw form as she leaned toward Yen Sid, Flutter flapping gently beside her. “My cohort and I will accompany you?” Yen Sid nodded, taking Flutter onto his hand as she nestled into his warmth, and the comfort of how he held her. “Of course, Aurora.” soothed Yen Sid, “All of you are coming with us, we’ll need everyone to be there for Golden out there.” Bee suddenly zipped past everyone, and began buzzing around Yen Sid’s head as well as Aurora, he appeared rather frantic, and stumbled on his words as he tried to speak. “Your majesty!!” he exclaimed, “Out in the water! Hurry! I…I saw something!!” Yen Sid stood up, as did Mum, the fear in Bee’s voice was concerning, as were his wild movements despite his efforts to remain still. “Bee, please remain calm.” Aurora told him, voice as gentle and soft as a breeze. “What is out in the water? Is it Golden?” Bee shook his head vigorously, and pointed toward the sea, he gestured for Aurora to follow him as he flew out toward it, Oswald got, propelling his ears into flight mode and took off after them. “Follow me.” Bee said, his voice no longer alarmed, and leading Aurora and Oswald far out toward the ocean. The rest watched them grow smaller and smaller as they went further into the distance, the bright sun not making it particularly easy for them to watch. “What’s going on?” Yen Sid asked quietly. “Surely…it couldn’t be…?” Aurora, Bee and Oswald almost appeared as dots before they soon came back into view, flying close together as they all carried something, it was too small to be a person, even a child like Golden. The hope in everyone slowly dwindled when they came back to the beach, until they got a better look at what they had. Aurora flew back to the rocks, perching on the one next to Julius, Bee followed and took the spot beside her, not appearing as loud and animated as before. Oswald flew down to his family, holding what the three had brought back. “Dad…” Oswald said, his voice a tad nervous. “Bee saw this, it’s…it’s her hat!” Oswald handed the waterlogged hat to Yen Sid, who began to inspect it. The colours, placement of the stars and the moon, even the stitching, it was no doubt Golden’s, he stared intently at the headpiece, hardly blinking. “Huh? What?” Scout wanted to take the hat herself to look at it, but something inside stopped her from doing so. “How did… dad?” Mum placed a hand on Scout’s shoulder, trying not to assume the worst, though seeing Golden’s hat without the owner was nonetheless an eerie outcome. “If…her hat was out there…” Mum began, “Then, surely she’s not far?” Yen Sid felt something different as he looked at Golden’s hat, and it wasn’t dread. He held the hat to his chest, squeezing it a little and making his shirt wet, not that he minded. Taking a deep breath, he opened his eyes, looking at each and everyone who was staring at him for an answer, a positive one. “Golden is alive.” he said, straight to the point. “Holding this hat in my hands, I can feel it. She’s out there, I just…hope she’s not near any danger. We will set out as soon as Percy has Rocket ready. Hold on, Lunula…we’re coming for you.”

Underwater, Golden found herself curious about what the queen could possibly mean, raising an eyebrow in a similar fashion to that of Yen Sid. Her eyes narrowed, and she clenched her fists tight, summoning her courage. “What do you mean…taken care of?” she asked, Allura continuing to braid her hair and putting a small starfish at the top of one of the braids, Golden noticing that even more pearls were encrusted into her long blonde locks, sparkling in the light flooding in through the gilded palace windows. Several jellyfish gathered around the place, as if they were a part of the building itself, and a few yellow-headed jawfish poked out, as well as some garden eels, all intently watching the discussion between child and queen through the cracks in the floor. Allura twirled some hair around her finger, and it seemed to shift as she did so, turning into that ugly grey again, little suction cups appearing, but retreating as soon as she let it go. She gave a smile, and Golden raised her eyebrow even more, so much so that it might have just fallen off. “But of course we will take care of you! Here within these walls, we will fix up your robe, provide you with food, and anything you need or desire will be attended to. That is…if you’ll stay?” The queen offered, Golden stiffening and feeling the sisters approach behind her, turning to face them briefly as they, too, became humanoid, turning into their regular nymph forms, distinguishable only by hair and the few features setting them apart. Golden swallowed nervously, and then reached up and touched her hat. How would Yen Sid respond to something like this? She thought hard, and then took a deep breath. “What do you mean by…“stay”? Just one day or…or forever?” she spoke, practically forcing out that last part. Allura’s face creased with a frown for just a moment, a flicker of irritability passing over her usually demure and calm features. It made the child nervous, almost like when Yen Sid told her off for messing up a spell, but she stood her ground, Allura turning away and continuing to mess with her hair, brushing sections of it with her fingers. “Merely a day or two, until we can safely get you back to the surface.” she spoke, still not looking at the girl, who tried to meet her gaze, but Allura wasn’t obliging. Golden hoped with all her heart that the queen was trustworthy, but what Merlie had said…it still rang through her mind, setting off alarm bells louder than a symphony. “If it's okay…your majesty…I’d like to stay elsewhere or…or even just g-go home now?” she stuttered, Allura’s eyes changing slightly, a look of irritance crossing her face once more. “Whilst you are here, consider Atlantis your home. I promise that my people are very hospitable, we have several taverns and places of rest, and none of them would do anything to harm you.” she spoke, before her eyes crossed the three sirens, who all looked down, especially Merlie, once her hostile gaze reached them. “Your majesty, we were just…” she stammered, Allura curling her fist and Merlie promptly shutting up, which relieved Golden after all their squabbling. “You were just joking. But do not let your awful sense of humour ruin a potential friendship…” she finished, once more looking at Golden. She rose off her throne and walked toward the girl, offering her hand for shaking. Nervously, Golden accepted, and was surprised to feel no slime, the hand was human, soft skin and warm. It was comforting, so she looked up at Allura, and offered a very soft smile. “Child, let me promise you this. By the first light of dawn tomorrow, we’ll have you back home. For mermaids like myself, and especially sirens like that rabble, it is much easier to approach Kookaburra Cove by nightfall, when there are less people around.” she finished, Golden nodding. She still was praying Delphis would reach her first, hoping to god he was looking for her and would save her from these weird women, but if what Allura said was true, she wouldn’t be gone long and would be safe here.

Delphis found himself swimming deeper and deeper, noticing his friends were following. Cody had blown his whistle to encourage them all to follow, and Mako was leading the charge, suddenly barrelling into Delphis, who was surprised. Nevertheless, he knew exactly what was wrong, and gave another comforting whistle, as he couldn’t necessarily talk in dolphin form. He rubbed his head against the shark’s, who bumped him, as if to say ‘idiot’, but then nuzzled him back affectionately, Frill joining in and plopping on Delphis’s head, the dolphin playfully shooting her up by using his blowhole. Mantra joined in by swimming onto Delphis’s tail, and Luma had latched onto one of his pectoral fins, Cody finally joining on his other pectoral. It was the closest thing they could get to a hug without transforming, and it reassured each and every one of them. Cody then blew on his whistle- he carried it even in dolphin form, and everyone, as best as they could, stood to attention, Delphis even playfully joining in. They then realised they had company, noticing several mermaids were approaching, Mako baring his teeth and getting ready to bash them if needed. Delphis whistled, encouraging him to calm, and transformed into his humanoid form, swimming toward them. “What are you here for?” one of them asked, beautiful purple hair drifting and swaying in the current, violet eyes sparkling in the sunset that cascaded through the waters. Delphis floated in place, and gave a warm smile. “Have you seen a young child, around eight? She seems to have gotten lost down here.” he explained, the mermaids all looking at each other for a second. “Yes…she went that way.” one of them pointed, Delphis looking toward the direction- a small reef. It wasn’t exactly Atlantis, but close enough to the city, and he wondered if Golden could’ve got stuck there. He decided to check, transforming back into a dolphin, but whistled to Mako, who sped off the other way. The rest of the Nothing Reef crew followed their leader, Cody noticing Mako leaving and motioning toward him with a fin, but Delphis just whistled again, reassuring him that he knew what he was doing. The mermaids accompanied the group, almost as if they were stalking them, and Delphis found himself thinking as he searched, though he was almost certain Golden wasn’t here. He wondered if something like this could be a test of the Itarians and their virtue. They weren’t monsters, just in pain, and found themselves victims of a perceived war between land and sea. He couldn’t help but hope that someday the city could rise again, and the people would be freed, but until that day arrived, he was content to watch over them and pray for their protection.

Mako sped through the ocean, approaching the city and transforming into a humanoid, to blend in easier. He found himself wondering why Delphis would put himself in such danger, after what had happened in the past, he wanted to protect his dolphin dad at all costs, and hoped he would be safe no matter what. To put it simply, he needed Delphis, and hoped that Delphis felt the same. Sometimes he wondered if he was burdening his dad through his presence and jokey demeanour, but although he was a nuisance, he knew deep down that his dad really cared for him. And in a new room, in an upper part of the palace, a small girl was having similar thoughts. The room itself was rather beautiful, windows looking out up toward the open ocean, where rays of sunlight danced through the blue, reminding her of the spirits. She surveyed the entire place, looking to see if anyone could be hiding there or if there were any secrets, and thought of her usual room as she did so. This one was so…empty, just a bed and closet, and a few nightstands. The one at home had all her toys, a big bed for a big girl, and a closet full of magical items and fun things, as well as a bookshelf and toy chest…she wanted to go home! She missed Starlight and the broomies, and hoped they’d all be waiting for her when she got back. She looked under the bed, pretty spacious, and crawled under, curling up and pulling her knees up to her chest. She remembered Aqua’s words, and closed her eyes, breathing deeply and trying to avoid the fear she felt. Under here, there were no roaches, slimy sirens or scary queens. There was just herself and the floor, and that was comforting. She touched the marbled floor and felt it cold against her palm, continuing to breathe and keep herself calm. She had strength in her heart, and that strength would get her home, no matter what. 

A knock at the door suddenly startled her, the girl glitching out from under the bed and sitting atop it, Merlie opening the door and giving a smile. “Hello there dear. We have brought you a change of clothes, since we need some time to repair that pretty little robe of yours.” she explained, Golden looking down at the robe, and then at the clothes Merlie had brought. They were nice, encrusted with pearls and seashells, but…her robe was warm, and kept her safe. She could burrow into it if needed, or pull up the hood, and it was so special to her. She couldn’t imagine giving it to these strangers to fix. “Um…thank you but…” she tried, Merlie folding her arms. “You can’t possibly be content to walk around in that thing! It’s got a hole in the arm!” she insisted, Golden smiling and putting her hand through the elbow hole, playing with the flaps of fabric and the strands of string that had been torn away. “I’ll fix it myself when I get home, or dad can do it! But look, it’s fun!” she giggled, waggling her hand through the hole and smiling, folding her fingers down so she was making a peace sign, like a rabbit. She made it hop around, before Merlie closed her hand around Golden’s, holding it a little uncomfortably. “Hmmm…alright then, but Allura wants you to have dinner with her, so she’d prefer if you wore something more…customary.” she explained, Golden going stiff. She’d have to have dinner with Allura?! Oh hell no! She felt her heart thumping in her chest at the mere thought of being alone at the table with such a formidable person, even if she seemed sweet enough, and gulped. “Um…Merlie, I’m really sorry, I’m not hungry, I…” she trailed off, trying to think of a lie, “I…get really seasick! So I can’t eat at the moment…” She remembered that her old biological dad apparently used to get seasick…the thought of him in that moment made her heart feel heavy, but there wasn’t time to dwell on those memories, there were more important things to focus on. Merlie frowned. “I’m not asking. If you don’t eat now, you won’t be fed. So I suggest you do as you’re told…” she scowled, drawing in closer. “After all, we sirens don’t like being…rejected.” she whispered, Golden trembling in place. She didn’t want to know what these women could do, given the chance, especially if Merlie’s earlier words had any weight. Chills cascaded down her spine, and she took a deep, albeit shaky, breath. “Okay…I’ll get ready. T-thank you…” she whispered, Merlie giving an approving nod and setting the clothes down on the bed beside her, exiting the room. 

Golden got dressed, looking at herself in a mirror on the closet door. She had a long white dress on, one that reached her ankles much like the garments Merlie and the rest of the nymphs wore, and some brown sandals decorated with a few shells around the buckles. The dress was long sleeved, edges encrusted with pearls and tiny white seashells, sewn in like beads or gemstones. She even had a little headband to wear, with the same decoration, and put it on, and then, the hat on top. Surprisingly, it fit, but she didn’t look like much of an apprentice any more, rather, she looked like a princess out of a picture book, perhaps even like Ariel. She gave a small twirl, despite everything, the dress was rather pretty, and she wondered if she could keep it. She then wondered why they would even have a dress in her size, as if it had been made for her, or perhaps they had been expecting her. Either way, it was creepy! She heard a rustle behind the door, peeking out and seeing a flash of blue pass by her, but then nobody. She turned, seeing Merlie walking down the hall, and the woman gave her a sweet smile, pleased she was ready. She took in the sight of the smaller girl, before a frown crossed her face. “You can’t wear that!” she cried, Golden feeling her heart stop. Had she done something wrong? Was she being offensive? What had she done?! She looked up at the nymph in fright. “But…but I’m just wearing what you told me to! Did I…did I do something wrong?” she stuttered, Merlie pausing for a moment and realising the child had misinterpreted her words. “Oh no, you look beautiful in that, just one…little thing.” She smiled, gently fixing one of the child’s sleeves. “But I’m talking about your hat! It doesn’t look right at all!” she insisted, Golden’s eyes changing and the girl backing up slightly. She needed her hat! Without it…she’d have no means of defence! “I’m sorry but…I really can’t take it off.” she tried, Merlie’s eyes narrowing. “Well then, let me!” She grinned, suddenly grabbing Golden and pushing her down into the floor, the siren towering above her. Her hair went back to that ugly grey, tentacled look, and all at once the tendrils shot forward, grabbing Golden’s hat, despite her struggling. She grimaced, knowing her hat would be full of mucus and would need a nice wash from the broomies after this, but tried to escape the grip, though Merlie was holding her tightly. She struggled, managing to grab one of the tentacles in her fist, Merlie emitting a wince, and due to her struggle, the hat flew out the window. As soon as it hit the ground, Merlie retracted her tentacles, turning them into her usual black hair. Golden was in disbelief for a moment, speech clogging her throat as a billion insults flooded her head, most of them far too explicit for use, but she eventually found her voice. “You…you did that on purpose!” she yelled, Merlie giving the slightest hint of a smirk. “Oh dear, I’ll go and fetch it now. And it was an accident, please accept my sincerest apologies.” she smiled sweetly, Golden folding her arms and pouting. She felt anger bubbling like an undersea volcano, and felt as if she could literally bite Merlie like a shark, but Yen Sid had taught her far better manners. She sighed, adjusting her headband and playing with her fringe for a second, and remembered what he’d taught her about calming down when she was nervous or angry- count to ten, try again. She mentally counted, and then took a deep breath, looking up at Merlie, who was feigning her regret. She met Golden’s eyes, and her face changed into the usual smile, though with a hint of a smirk. “Allura is awaiting you, little one. She doesn’t like it when her guests are late. But, I’ll leave your hat here when I retrieve it.” she offered, Golden sighing and walking out the room. She glared as soon as the door closed, sticking out her tongue, and tried to remember the way down to the throne room. She found herself heading down a stairwell, ending up down the side of her target, where a large waterfall was ever-flowing, the wall decorated with beautifully painted portraits, including a grandiose one of Allura. Curious about who could have painted such things, she glanced down at the signature, but…there was just a fiddle. She could almost imagine Julius playing it, though he usually liked his kalimba, but the melody that she could imagine, it comforted her. She took a deep breath, and stared up at the queen’s portrait, unaware that someone was watching her through the waterfall, and was very curious. 

Heading through the corridor, she found herself in the throne room, where there was a long table, full of delicious and extravagant dishes. She couldn’t help but scowl as she spotted the queen at the head of the table, politely waiting. Allura met her gaze, giving a sweet smile, but Golden folded her arms, her stubbornness overcoming her. She was frustrated by Merlie, and wanted her hat back, but her thoughts were cut off by the siren’s voice. “There’s no need to look like that, see child? There’s a banquet prepared just for you. Think of it as a welcoming gift.” she smiled, Golden scoffing to herself. A gift…no, it reminded her of the mirror, and her other self…it was a trick, she was sure. She felt a wave of nausea pass over her as she remembered that mirror, that image with all the pain and suffering, her thoughts descending down. She then remembered that illusion Forte had shown her, that isolation…all that fire and injury…she shook in her boots, standing in place and now unable to move. Allura frowned slightly. “Come, child. It will get cold if you aren’t careful.” she warned, Golden stiffening as she felt her heart begin to beat faster. She had to stay calm, she breathed again, counting…and then she was okay, averting her panic. She moved closer to the table, her stomach suddenly growling, damn it. Pulling out a chair, she sat far away from Allura, looking at the food, and wondered where it could have come from. The other sisters soon joined, but one chair was still empty. Golden wondered who it could belong to, but was soon distracted as the sisters piled her plate high with various foreign foods. She was a little picky, but tried some of it, finding it tasty and filling enough to keep her sustained for the time being. She ate silently for a while, remembering she hadn’t eaten since lunch, and even then it had just been sandwiches, but the food was good enough for now, though…she’d rather eat with her family. She looked over toward Allura, who was eating, and gave her a slight smile, the little girl wishing she could shrink down into the folds of her robe, but this dress was form-fitting and offered no such comfort. “Thank…you? I guess I should say that.” she faltered, Allura giving a slight chuckle. “No need to thank us, little one. We Itarians only treat those who enter our domain with the utmost kindness and hospitality. We’re especially known for our tours, but that will have to wait until morning. We have our own culture down here, incredible music and dancing, and singing to sweep you off your feet. And if you like art, Merlie has a wonderful collection of statues!” she giggled, Merlie’s face changing ever-so-slightly. “Yes, I do. It…it isn’t finished, though. I still need to collect more.” she smiled, seeming a little shy at the mention of her hobby. Speaking of art…Golden turned toward Merlie. “Do you paint, as well?” she asked, Merlie stiffening slightly. “No, I don’t. Why do you ask?” she replied, Golden turning to the other sisters, who also shook their heads. “Who did all those beautiful portraits in the hall? They’re…amazing.” she smiled, Allura looking slightly nervous. “I…I commissioned them. Back when we were on the surface, all that time ago. I’d send for artists far and wide to paint my picture!” she laughed, Golden raising an eyebrow at her vanity, though she supposed it was only natural for a queen. Plus, dad had portraits in his office too, so…she tried not to overthink it. “I see.” she replied, continuing to eat, looking at the diverse bowls of food, which were served in beautiful dishes with all sorts of pictures on them. Despite this, her mind wandered, the girl hoping someone would come for her…she found herself longing to be sharing a meal like this with her family, too. It seemed she always ended up away from them, somewhere far from where she wished to be, and she just wanted to stay with them. She felt a few tears pricking her eyes, but tried to keep from crying. The food was unfamiliar, it wasn’t the food Yen Sid, Mum or the broomies would cook, or even Percy’s incredible pasta- how she craved it! But the thing she missed the most was comfort, like hearing Oswald boasting at the table, or Julius and Mickey chatting to her, or Scout and Yen Sid discussing music…she missed the feeling of family, more than anything she could describe. She tried to imagine them with her, but fatigue was forcing her to focus on what was in front of her, and she couldn’t daydream the meal away. Stelle tapped her shoulder. “Something wrong, little one?” she asked, Golden looking up in surprise. “No, no…the food is delicious. Thank you.” she spoke, a melancholic flatness entering her tone, one that often showed itself when she was demotivated or down. In fact, it would be particularly pertinent in the current situation to describe herself as ‘feeling blue’. Emilie smiled gleefully. “Good, glad you like it! We only prepare the best food in the city! And after dinner, there’s far more to come!” she exclaimed, Golden turning her way in curiosity. She wondered if the things to come would include reaching the cove, or perhaps the Nothing Reef crew coming to rescue her, but the thing she wanted most of all was to get back to her hotel room, and curl up in her nice warm bed, even if it wasn’t her own, it was much more homely than the room she’d been given here. “That’s nice…” she muttered, before looking down at the food in surprise as a thought came to her. “How do you have so much food? Doesn’t most bread and things like sugar dissolve in water?” she asked, remembering the little bit that Percy and Mum had taught her about cooking, especially when she’d helped Mum make her biscuits. Allura gave a soft giggle. “I’m sure to surface dwellers like yourself, everything feels a little strange! We are just full of surprises, aren’t we? We have all sorts of spectacles down here, jumping fountains, gardens…take your pick!” she laughed, Golden finding herself imagining these things, it was almost like a dream. “Now, eat your fill. We are having a party in your name later!” Allura smiled, Golden cringing as a chill went down her spine. She swallowed some pita chips with effort, glancing out one of the windows, the stars and moon emerging above the water, the bright glow of the moon refracting and dancing in the current. She remembered reaching out for it, and silently thanked it for being there for her all the time, hoping she could keep looking up at it for hope. She smiled slightly as she remembered the nights in the observatory, when she’d sit on Yen Sid’s lap, and on Christmas when Aero, Star and Starlight had all flown by, or even in the fight, when they’d been showered with stardust… she gave a warm sigh at the thoughts. Sometimes they’d spot constellations together, and he’d tell her their stories, or they’d try and spot the shores of the fairytale realm dancing in the distance, or watch over the closest ones from above. She snapped back to reality, though, and remembered that she needed to find her hat, making a plan. Allura and the other nymphs shared a glance, noticing she’d finished her plate and was lost in thought, much like someone else often was… Allura cleared her throat, Golden looking over at her in slight surprise. “Well, it is almost time for our party, little one. I’m sure you will be the belle of the ball!” she giggled, Golden immediately thinking of Belle- no BELLE was the belle of the ball! She couldn’t help but smile as she thought of the beautiful princess, though, and wondered if she might like the beach. In fact, she couldn’t help but imagine all of them spending a day there, the daydream feeling comforting amongst the frightening reality. Though she hadn’t met the princesses in person, she knew of them and their stories, from books her father would show her, and Angelique telling her many tales on Christmas Eve…she sighed dreamily, but tried to control her wandering mind. Allura stood, alongside the other nymphs, offering her hand, but Golden saw a chance and took it, feigning a yawn and rubbing her eyes. “I think…I might have to go to bed…I’m sorry…I’m very sleepy, your majesty…” she tried, making her voice sound croaky and intersposing yawns amongst the words for greater emphasis. The three nymphs looked almost offended, but Allura put her hand up, silencing any of the things they would have said. “Very well, then, if you are finished with your meal…but…” she trailed off, a sly smile crossing her face that sent chills down Golden’s spine once more. “Let me…sing you to sleep, then, little one.” she offered, Golden immediately hearing alarm bells, louder than Percy’s annoying bell, echoing across her mind. She stiffened, having hoped to use the time to escape and find her hat! But Allura was insistent, taking her by the shoulders and leading her upstairs to her room. From outside, the queen called someone over, but it was indistinct due to the distance, and soon she reappeared with some pyjamas, again, tailored exactly to her size. Golden took them into her arms, closing the door, and then…immediately changed back into her robe. She remembered Oswald teaching her some knots he’d learned, and tied the sheets of her bed together, anchoring it to her bedpost. The drop was high…but, wait! She had a brilliant idea, and waited just a few more seconds, clambering down the sheets and keeping her feet on the wall, dangling there for just a second more…and then jumped down, landing on top of one of the jellyfish surrounding the palace. She hopped down safely onto another, then another, and finally reached the bottom, noticing her hat was perched on another smaller one, reaching up and grabbing it. She was right- it was slimy, but she put it on her head nonetheless, trying to ignore the weird feeling, and ran. She glitched away as fast as she could, ending up in various spots, but none were quite where she needed to go. She needed to go up, back toward her family, and her wish was granted, unfortunately, as she ended up in the open ocean. Her eyes filled with water, lungs tightening as she tried to hold her breath, and she felt her hat drifting off her head, holding one hand over her mouth and using another to keep it down, but she was too far down in the ocean to swim up to safety. Her ears began to hurt from the pressure, causing her to feel a horrible pain in them, as she did not know how to equalise, and the sound of several splashes all around her frightened her, feeling herself panic. Two mermaids approached her, grabbing her arms, and as she tried to struggle, her hat floated away, right up to the surface, which it felt like she’d never reach now. She relented, having no energy left to fight, but wearily opened one eye, seeing a tail heading the other direction, a grey tail that looked familiar…her head hurt, but she couldn’t help but wonder…was Delphis abandoning her? She tried to reach an arm out for him, but her strength was gone, and the mermaids dragged her down, practically throwing the weary child into the throne room. 

She coughed and sputtered as her lungs took in the air that somehow existed down here, head ringing and ears painful from the pressure, her chest feeling like it was burning, almost like the time she’d been revived. She lifted her head to see the nymphs once more staring down at her, the two mermaids taking their leave and swimming up again, having spotted a certain creature they disliked amid the tussle. Allura frowned, holding up the knotted sheets, Golden feeling fear and shame wash over her. “Well, well. How did that work out for you, escapist?” Merlie teased, the girl sitting up and folding her arms, in no mood for conversation. She stood and shook some of the droplets away, almost like Julius, and watched Allura step forward, scowling. “My dear, we promised to take care of you here in the castle, did we not?” she asked, the girl giving an uncertain nod, fiddling with the ripped part of the robe and now unable to meet the queen’s eyes. “I…I just want to go home…” she whispered, voice breaking as she felt a sob rising in her throat. She remembered that fin…had Delphis truly left her down here to die? She tried to hold in the sadness, but he didn’t seem like he was that type of person at all… her trust was shattered, though, and she just stared at the floor, feeling, ironically, blue. Allura, though, held out a hand, and gently stroked the girl’s hair. “And you will, in due time.” she replied, Golden desperately wanting to trust her, but unable to. Nobody ever delivered on their promises. 

Back at the reef, Delphis was waiting for Mako, the mermaids having dispersed some time ago. He rushed toward his dad, transforming into his human form to easier transmit his message. “Dad! Some mermaids, they got her! And they took her down!” he yelled, breathless as he bared his teeth in contempt of the underwater city. Delphis took a breath, staring at his little crew, and transformed, taking Mako’s hands in his own. “Well done, Mako. Let’s go.” he smiled, Mako pumping a fist. “Shark win!” he grinned, before they all headed down, Frill resting on Mantra’s back alongside Luma, the entire group speeding down to Atlantis and hoping the child could wait just a bit longer. The city came into view, a magical quality entering the water that involuntarily turned everyone into a humanoid, the group descending. Mako and Cody searched the old tower on the edge of the city, alongside the unused underwater channels that used to lead to other islands, whilst Luma and Mantra took the streets. Delphis and Frill, though, waited at the edges of the city. If Delphis was seen, he could cause a scene, and Frill was a little frightened of going in alone. But the second they saw Golden, they would spring into action.

Golden stared down the four sirens, scowling as she felt her resolve grow. She’d fought magical enchanted organs, witches powerful enough to destroy the realms, and she’d mostly lived to tell the tale. What good were a bunch of fish against her, she ought to can them like sardines! The thought of Julius enjoying that made her giggle slightly, but her joy was cut short when Allura spoke up again, looking displeased at her expression. “Come now, dearest, it doesn’t have to be this way. This is all going completely in your favour, so why don’t you stop being a little pest and do as you’re told?!” she yelled, suddenly drawing out a harpoon and pointing it right at Golden’s chest, who was surprised for a moment but then snickered slightly. “This is so cliche, your majesty. This literally happened only a few months ago.” she giggled, trying to keep up the brave front in front of them, Allura raising an eyebrow. “Oh?” she muttered, Golden giving a brave smile. “Yeah, I didn’t tell you? I got my heart stolen by like this massive bunch of villains, they kidnapped dad and then ME! Then they beat me up with a whip and pins, I was like, dude, that’s a bit far but okay, and then they crushed it! It was pretty broken but I’m really awesome so I came back from dying, and then I went and kicked villain as-” her story was cut off by a sudden loud shout. “SILENCE!” Allura screamed, Golden looking unnerved for a moment, but her mouth curved into a smirk. “What’s wrong? Afraid I’m not scared of you, octopus features? Well guess what, queenie, I’m not! And I’m gonna kick your butt just like I did to the others!” she grinned, Allura snarling as more of her siren form began to emerge, tentacles holding the harpoon alongside the webbed hands, but the girl was undeterred. “What happened next?” Emilie suddenly piped up, her sisters wrapping all of their tentacles over her mouth together, a sight that got another giggle out of Golden. “Oh, well if you really want to know, I basically died again, but everyone’s love and the power of friendship brought me back, you know, the usual deus ex machina? And now we’re here, I was planning to have a wonderful day at the beach, but it was RUDELY INTERRUPTED!” she shrieked, Allura growling and swiping at her with the harpoon. She glitched out of the way, but without her hat, it was pretty uncontrollable, and she ended up stuck up a pillar! “Oh come on! Now is not the time to be screwing up!” she groaned, trying to slide down. As she did, the sisters spotted her, grabbing knives from the dining table, as well as several bowls, and threw them up at her with their various tentacles. The loose flap of her robe got stuck, but, thinking quickly, she tore it off completely, leaving her with a gaping hole in her sleeve but free. She glitched again, finding herself in the middle of the city, where a jumping fountain splashed her in the face, the girl groaning at her luck and running, hoping to find somewhere to hide. She passed through the centre, which was electric with music and nightlife, and bumped into several people, who all had various interesting appearances- some looked like eels, others like varieties of fish, and some were nymphs like the others had been. Though she had no time to stare, a part of her wished she could stay longer, but she breezed through the town, hearing the cries of the sisters and Allura as they chased her. With what little magic she had, she knocked over a few market stalls to cause a diversion, but tried not to hurt anyone in the process, many residents too shocked to even stop her. She ran as fast as her little legs could carry her, reaching the edges of the city and finding an empty boat, clambering in and trying to row, until suddenly she felt herself get lifted up, tentacles clamping over her face and holding her in place. “Ah ah ah! That was rather thoughtless of you, child. Don’t think you can run, there’s no escape from Atlantis, and you are no longer welcome here!” Allura growled, Golden squeezing her eyes shut in fear underneath the tentacles, not enjoying the feeling one bit. Her fears of the queen returned as she tried to wriggle free, Allura smiling as she left the water and held the child fast above her head, a small crowd forming and wondering what could have possibly earned the queen’s fury. “My lovely citizens, a party waits for nobody! Let us go- AH!” she was caught off guard as something suddenly hit her in the head, something…squishy. She turned round, and Frill gave a smile. “My hat isn’t just for decoration, you know!” She grinned, continuing to whack the siren queen and forcing her to drop Golden. And then, several of the citizens pointed up to the sky, where droplets of water now cascaded down on them, a little funnel reaching down to the ground and encasing Frill, Allura, but most importantly, Golden. A riptide tore her away from Allura, the girl still having her eyes shut but hearing the cries of shock and awe from the various residents, and then feeling herself getting swept into someone’s arms…she opened her eyes, and there he was. The spirit of the sea, right on cue.

“DELPHIS!” Golden cried out, it was almost like a dream. She thought he couldn’t come for her, and yet there he was. Seeing her a short way away from the siren queen, Delphis swooped down through the dark water, swiftly and effectively taking her into his arms and manoeuvring upward, he was fast and was already ahead of the sirens. Merlie, Stelle and Emilie had arrived to assist the queen, and as soon as they spotted the sea spirit, they shrank back a little. “What’s HE doing here?” shrieked Emilie, grinding her sharp teeth in anger as she spotted Golden in his grasp, she swam forward, her sisters following quickly behind her. Delphis continued to make his way to the surface, not an iota of worry on his face, Golden was relieved, and tried to refrain from tearing up as she came to fully realise that he had come to rescue her. “Not long now, my little friend.” smiled Delphis reassuringly, giving her a playful wink. “The top will be here soon! We just need to keep going up, and up, and alllll the way up!” He gave a little laugh, it was much like a dolphin’s squeak, making Golden smile widely. As he swam, he carefully encased her in a little bubble, keeping her from running out of oxygen; they weren’t out of the woods yet, or at least the abyss. Turning his head slightly, Delphis spotted Allura, who looked positively enraged, today was not her day, but she wasn’t ready to give up yet. Her tentacles were swinging fast, her harpoons at the ready, aiming for Delphis, but more importantly, Golden, she had her icy cold eyes fixed on her, wanting her dead. “Don’t let them ESCAPE!!” Allura screamed, charging ahead toward the two. “Free Atlantis!! Give up for the freedom of Itar! We won’t rest until we rise again!!” She threw one of the harpoons, sending it speeding toward Delphis like a torpedo, Golden yelped in fear, clinging tightly to her marine friend and hiding her face in his shoulder. Delphis caught the harpoon hurtling toward him, and flipped upward, avoiding the tip narrowly by the skin of his teeth. “Woah! That was close!” he cried, keeping a playful hint in his voice despite his more serious expression as he looked toward the siren beneath him. “Allura, please see reason.” he began, sounding more solemn now. “You and I both know I had no choice, and for that reason I cannot choose to raise you, at least not yet. If you prove yourselves virtuous and well-meaning, then there would be a chance…but so far this has not been shown to me. So I’m sorry, but I refuse. And you are not showing any signs of making a change, you kept an innocent child here and were about to kill her! I have no intention of changing my mind right here and now.” Allura growled, she readied a second harpoon, but there was a change in the water as the three sisters rose up beside her. “He’s escaping, your majesty!!” yelled Stelle, snarling toward the sea spirit. Allura slapped her forehead, sighing in great exasperation. “Really? I could not tell! Tell me something I don’t know, STUPID!” she snapped, ready to backhand Stelle who was looking rather embarrassed. “After them, all of them, and bring them alive! I want to gut them personally…and then you three can have yourselves some new statues, I know that’s something you’d like, Merlie…” This appeared to give Merlie some excitement, she rubbed her webbed hands together, giving a piercing glare as she spotted the others, Frill, Mako, Luma, Mantra and Cody were right behind Delphis, giving him backup at the rear. “Looks like they all have a death wish, then…” Merlie grinned, leading her sisters toward the Nothing Reef gang, Delphis and Mako turned their heads, seeing the sirens coming for them. There wasn’t any sign of light from the surface yet, so they hadn’t a choice but to fight and defend themselves and protect Golden. “You don’t frighten US, Delphis!” Merlie yelled, her tone was crazed and manic, her fingertips were now pointed, claws appearing at the ends in a vicious, attack-style mode. “We will take you on, and the rest of them will fall after, you made a BIG mistake coming here today!” Delphis slowed, turning around to face Merlie, Stelle and Emilie, there was a distinct smirk on his face, holding Golden much closer to reassure her, and keeping her face from turning and facing their petrifying eyes. “I don’t frighten you?” he grinned, and bowed a little as he continued to float upward. “Oh hehehe! My dear, I’m not the one you should worry about…they are!” Merlie wasn’t able to register his words before getting a full smack in the face from a shark tail, and then several jellyfish tentacles wrapping around her and holding her tightly in place. “GOTCHA!” cried Mako, feeling incredibly satisfied with his attack. Stelle and Emilie were also overcome by the Nothing Reef gang, Luma and Mantra performed a spin together, creating bubbles and sparkles to confuse and blind her before another strike from Mako’s powerful tail, leaving the two to finish with a majestic twirl and finishing step. “Beautiful moves there, darling!” Mantra winked, admiring Luma’s poise and elegant moves. “Oh, haha goodness me, thank you!” Luma smiled, her face turning a soft shade of pink as her friend complimented her. “You’re very good yourself, perhaps even better than I.” Delphis gave a gleeful smile, Golden looking up at him briefly as he kept a hand on her head, gently brushing his fingers through her hair and leaving droplets. He was almost translucent, in this state, since he was merged with the water. His hair was far bluer, and skin almost purple, but his aquamarine eyes continued to sparkle, just as hers did. He gave her a soft smile, and she leaned against him again, the sea spirit leaning his head down on hers for a moment. She then caught sight of Mako’s tail, and realised- he’d been the one there, not Delphis! And he hadn’t left her, he’d gone to find his family for backup, just as she would. The thought made her smile, she really needed to thank him.

Meanwhile, the family were diving down, down, deeper down, in their red submarine. Percy was at the wheel, whilst the broomies were performing various duties, one of them pointing the directions, though to everyone it seemed as if they were just going deeper for the heck of it. Aurora gazed out the window, hoping to see her husband somewhere amongst the waves, whilst Bee and Flutter were perched on top of Julius’s head, Bee careful not to sting him. Mickey was sitting next to him, Mum having an arm around him, since he didn’t like deep water one bit, but having her there was a huge comfort. Yen Sid, too, was gazing out at the depths, pointing out various creatures to Ossie, including a strange pod- an anglerfish, lionfish and yellow-headed jawfish. What they were doing together was anybody’s guess, but he was amused by the mishmashed sight. Oswald spotted a remora, which promptly latched itself to Rocket, who gave the same giggle sound, before an eagle ray passed overhead, Oswald giving it a shy wave as it swooped down toward the window, almost as if it was looking at him. Its beautiful patterns sparkled in the moonlight, as if it was dusted with stardust itself, and it flew ahead, Percy spotting it and feeling rather amazed by the sight, it reminded him of someone dear…he gave a slightly nostalgic smile, and continued propelling them further down, where they were sure Delphis would find them.

Rising up toward the surface, Delphis and his pod were heading up, the funnel disappearing and leaving the Itarians to ponder what on earth had just happened. Allura, though, was furious, and her fury knew no bounds, the siren giving orders to the three subordinates, which they subsequently headed off to accomplish. Meanwhile, she heard a familiar chime, and gave a malicious grin. Time for some fun. She watched as the figures of Delphis and his little group grew further away, and swam in another direction, ready to begin her plan. As they headed up, Golden pulled herself away from Delphis slightly, looking around at the beautiful creatures following her. Frill bobbed around the bubble, using her fists to blow bubble rings toward Golden, who reached out and popped them, giggling. Mako stuck close to Delphis, putting an arm around him and letting himself rise alongside the sea spirit, whilst Cody took Luma and Mantra’s hands, leading them up and Golden taking a look at the whistle around his neck, she wondered if he’d let her try playing with it. They continued further, whistling and clicking suddenly filling the silence as Delphis’s pod appeared, all swarming him. The sea spirit giggled as they all rubbed themselves against Golden, who liked the feeling, throwing her arms around them all in the best hug she could manage, the bubble warping as she did, though Delphis held it steady. Finally, they reached the surface, Delphis playfully popping the bubble, leading her to the shore. It was night by now, the shore was deserted and the sea was calm, waves lapping gently as the bright glow of Kingdom Hearts shone down on the world. Delphis surfaced at a small patch of rocks, practically throwing Golden up onto them through the wave power, though it was easy and gentle to land. The rocks were flat, and she sat on them a moment, before coming to a very obvious realisation- her family were nowhere to be seen. She almost gasped, but one look at Delphis gave her comfort. “They are likely out searching for you. I will lead them home, and then you all will be able to spend some time here before bed, if you so wish.” he smiled, Golden nodding and liking the idea. She found herself gazing at the surrounding area- the hotel had many lights, she could see silhouettes of various people in the windows, and there was music in the air, resounding cheers of partygoers filling the otherwise calm environment. But here, on the beach, there was nothing but sky and sea, and the air was clean and wonderful. She took a deep breath, Delphis still bobbing in the water, before he gave a smile. “Stay here, child.” he insisted, Golden frowning slightly- she didn’t want to see those sirens again, but…but she’d seen the trouble Delphis could get into. “No, I want to go with you! I’m coming, Delphis!” she insisted, the sea spirit merely giving his usual warm smile. “Child, I know you mean well, I really do. But I will be so much faster alone- I can turn into the ocean itself and find them in an instant. Please, stay here for me?” he asked, a slight whistle coming into his voice that brought her comfort. Reluctantly, she nodded, but cheered up when he created some jumping streams of his own, leaping up over the rocks and spurting over her like fountains, which made her laugh as she dangled her feet in the sea, watching him depart. She thought of the moment she’d see them all again, imagining them coming out of the water and rushing toward her. The rest of the Nothing Reef crew were down there, searching too, and she imagined Oswald getting bashed by Frill’s hat or Julius and Mickey riding on Cody’s back, all thoughts that made her smile and kick her feet, creating little splashes. She was excited to tell them all how well she’d handled the danger, especially after the last escapade, and all on her own too! Well…actually, she couldn’t have done it without her oceanic friends, but she was still proud of herself. She watched the water ripple suddenly, standing excitedly and expecting them to be there, waving her hands as a grin stretched across her face, heart racing in joy…but then, a tentacle shot out from the depths, grabbing her ankle. One, and then three, five… she couldn’t keep her balance, falling over and hitting her head on the blunt surface of the rocks, letting out a cry of pain due to how unexpected it had been. She tried to glitch away, but they held fast, snaking up her waist and pulling her further in, the three sisters appearing at the surface and holding her up in the air collectively, like a trophy. “Hold your breath, little one!” Merlie cackled, Golden panicking and closing her eyes as the three sirens’ eyes started to gleam maliciously in the darkness, before they suddenly pulled her under, the cold seawater once more dousing the child. It seemed there really wasn’t an escape from Atlantis…

“We all live in a yellow submarine, yellow submarine, yellow submarine!” Percy sang, one of the brooms jiving along as he spun the wheel in his hands, the group continuing to dive down. Julius heard him singing and gave a groan, that song always got stuck in his head! “Percyyyy….” he whined, Mum giving a giggle as she continued to point out fish to Mickey, Scout having joined them and gazing out at the aquatic life. Starlight sat on his shoulder, arms folded, whilst Aero and Star were drawing pictures with magic of the various things they saw. “It’s not even yellow, Percy! Are you colourblind?” Starlight called, Percy turning round briefly and giving a grin. “It is yellow because I say it is. No questions.” he smiled, before his radar began beeping, all seven broomies running toward it and pointing at it, to the point that the light man couldn’t even read it. “Yes, yes I SEE it is beeping, you planks! Now let me read it before I get our emergency axe!” he jokingly threatened, the brooms scurrying away and one hiding in Yen Sid’s robes, who sighed- was this going to be a regular occurrence? Percy glanced down at the radar, noticing something enormous on the screen, and looked ahead. “What do you think it is?” Aqua called, Ventus and Terra engaged in a little banter beside her, Percy turning to her with a smile. “My calculations say something big.” he replied, Oswald rubbing his chin in thought. “A pod of whales?” he offered, Ventus also thinking. “What about a sea monster?” he chimed in, Percy shrugging. Yen Sid gave a smile. “The Kraken.” he grinned, Percy rolling his eyes. “Either way, master, it’s coming our way or we are headed to it!” he insisted, shining the light around and Rocket giving little excited sounds at what it saw. Something was moving, and then pressed itself right against the glass- it was Delphis! He looked very cheery, the rest of the Nothing Reef crew swimming toward the submarine and popping up in the windows, Julius screeching as Mako bared his teeth at him, even though he knew he was harmless. Aurora stepped forward, folding down her wings so they wouldn’t accidentally hit any of the controls, and gave her husband a relieved wave. “You’re alright, mi amor! But where is the child?” she asked, Delphis giving her a wink and pointing upward, everyone giving a sigh of relief, especially Yen Sid. It made them all smile, imagining her waiting for them at the beach, knowing her she’d probably have built a sandcastle as tall as the sky out of her boredom, if they were gone a while. Their gleeful ideas were interrupted, though, as a tentacle appeared from nowhere and wrapped itself around Delphis. More suddenly emerged, entangling Frill and Cody together, the two of them trying to wriggle free but being pressed back to back, Cody gently moving his hand to hold Frill’s, as she was shaking. Another grabbed Luma and Mantra, who couldn’t help but raise an eyebrow. “If you ship us this hard, just say so!” Mantra called, Luma going bright red and squealing into her glowing dress at the remark, though it definitely lightened her mood. Delphis did everything he could to free himself, but found himself faced with several harpoons, Aurora hoping he’d be fine, since he was able to heal whilst in the ocean, but she still worried nonetheless. Restrained like this, he couldn’t easily turn into water and slip away, as much as he’d like to, but he tried to wriggle free, thrashing as the harpoons just missed him, the three siren sisters rising up alongside their leader, appearing in the light and ready to capture Rocket, and everyone inside. By now, there were so many people in the front that Percy could barely reach his controls, everyone worried about what could be happening. “What on earth is that?!” Scout yelled, Mickey huddling closer to Mum. “Whatever it is, it sure doesn’t look like the Kraken!” he replied, Mum putting a hand protectively on him, but nervous herself. “What do we do?” she asked, Percy turning around to face them all. “Have no fear my lovely crew, because Percival is here! Come on broomies, let’s get us out of this pickle!” he smiled, the broomies pushing everyone down into seats, Aqua gazing out and watching Frill and Cody struggling. She wanted to help them, but she had no idea how, wondering if it was even remotely possible at the present moment. Percy grinned, the broomies all looking very excited, and Yen Sid had a sudden feeling of worry when he looked at his son… Percy rubbed his hands together and pressed some buttons, a big red button appearing that he hovered his hand over. “Rocket, I know you said this wasn’t allowed, but at this point I think anything goes!” he grinned, Rocket making a sound similar to a sigh, before chiming in a very determined fashion. Percy pressed the button, and a hatch opened, revealing missiles. He gave a cheer, the broomies all punching the air excitedly, and the light man began to fire, hitting the sirens in various areas to free the oceanic gang. Cody and Frill floated out the way, before Cody got a brilliant idea and hopped onto one of the missiles, riding it down toward Mantra and Luma, freeing them and managing to keep them out of the blast zone through his speed and quick thinking alike. Finally, Delphis felt a shockwave run through the tentacle restraining him, but not from a missile. He looked up, and there was Mako, angrily biting at the tentacle, having hidden in the dark and avoiding capture. “Get your tentacles off him!” he growled, biting it a final time and his dad escaping, the Nothing Reef gang getting ready to take on Allura and her posse once more. But they were suddenly surprised when the tentacles shot past them, all entangling the submarine. Percy fell from the shock, the broomies rushing to help him up, and Star rolled across the floor, needing to be caught by Terra, who gave it a little pat to check if it was okay. Oswald managed to keep himself steady by holding Yen Sid, whilst Mickey had his arms around Starlight, who pulled her hat over her eyes in fear. The group felt themselves rocking with the effort of trying to reverse up against the mass of tentacles, and were frightened as the three sisters appeared in the windows, grinning nastily at them. Yen Sid warned everyone not to look into their eyes, the entire group covering them, and Percy leaving the broomies with instructions on how to man the cockpit, since they didn’t have eyes to begin with! They felt themselves being dragged down into the ocean, Yen Sid warning the Wayfinders to get their Keyblades ready, and Delphis flitted between several points, trying to use his current to push the submarine off whilst also avoiding the tentacles. However, he paused upon watching Frill and Mako get slammed by a particularly well-timed attack…and then scowled, feeling rage bubbling up inside him, which was rather unusual. He felt himself change slightly, no longer was his appearance that of a dolphin spirit, but he became a mass of tentacles himself, his clothes ripped and coral-coloured, the edges of his hair turning blue as his fury overtook him. He drew his entire pod close to him, hugging them with the tentacles, and gave directions to the brooms through his hands, who followed his command and tried everything he suggested. Eventually, Merlie swiped at him with another harpoon, managing to barely graze him, and he met her gaze, unfazed by the siren eyes. He warned his pod to keep their eyes shut, though, and knew that the brooms wouldn’t last forever at the helm, so he swum closer to Merlie, who gave a smirk. “Fighting us isn’t a good idea, sea boy. Allura wants a word with that girl, and the spirit of the sea is just an added bonus.” she teased, Delphis feeling the same rage envelop him, his grip tightening around his pod protectively. “Leave her alone, she’s just a child who has done nothing to you! She just wants to go home and be with her family, how can you be so heartless to deny her that simple request?” he demanded, before a thought occurred to him. A potentially very dangerous thought. Mako would kill him, but he had to try. He let his rage cool, his kraken formation diminishing into his regular dolphin one, the Nothing Reef gang finding themselves no longer wrapped in his embrace, Cody instead finding a nook they could stay in and leading them. Delphis turned to Allura, narrowing his eyes. “Exchange Golden for me. Doesn’t that appease you? You could raise yourselves up.” he taunted, Allura raising an eyebrow. Merlie spoke up again. “I’m sure she finds it rather tempting…but if you want to protect that pretty little creature you call a wife, and those surface dwellers, it would do you well to listen to the wishes of the queen.” she smiled, Delphis rolling his eyes slightly. King of the seas, listening to this puny little shrimp calling herself queen? That was funny. He followed her, though, hearing the rest of his little group trying to follow, and gave them his signature whistle, encouraging them to stay and that he would return, as he always promised.

As he dove down, deeper and deeper, toward Atlantis once more, Delphis found himself feeling rather introspective. Golden was safe for now, he reckoned she might have fallen asleep on the rocks, or perhaps she was collecting shells, but he had a strange feeling of unease that coursed through his veins. He wondered what on earth it could be. The weapons of the sirens couldn’t do anything to him, he was the literal ocean, and could easily catch them or even throw them back. Their gazes weren’t effective, either and their threats were futile, so why did he get such a sinking feeling? He chuckled to himself slightly, wiping off a little mucus from the tentacles as he swam down. He didn’t mind tentacles at all, he was used to his little friends tickling him, especially the octopuses, which were known to sneak up on him at night in their camouflage state. He even recalled a million squids bombarding him one time, and he’d STILL managed to escape without a single one of them tickling him. So it wasn’t tentacles, or threats, but the nagging feeling of anxiety persisted, causing him to wonder what on earth it could be. He entered the palace, sitting down at the table, and Allura entered around the same time, both of them staring each other down. “Let us begin.” the siren spoke, sitting at the head of the table, whilst Delphis stared at the various things on the table, including the tablecloth itself. It was all familiar to him, the same old meeting imitation that was so often held here in Itar. He rolled his eyes and turned toward her. “I still don’t even know what you want. Why don’t you make that clear to me first?” he asked, Allura looking down slightly, and then meeting his eyes with a slight fury. “Fine. The way I see it, I can get rid of some annoyances polluting my ocean, and perhaps even another set of hands around here, or my city gets raised up. That is, if we can reach an accord.” she offered, Delphis raising an eyebrow in disbelief. She really was vain, thinking she was anywhere near the level of making deals with him. “So, your proposition, in essence, is that you’ll kill the guests to my ocean, or I bring your city to the surface?” he replied, Allura giving a nod. The sea spirit scoffed at this display of petulance. “Come on now, we both know I have the entire power of the ocean at my disposal. And without my special little trident, you really can’t do anything to me, can you? I can save the entire Symphonus family and leave you and your city to rot, if I so please. What do you even have to bargain with, angelfish?” he replied, Allura hiding a smile. She reached under the table and placed something atop the tablecloth. A little red shoe. Delphis felt his heart drop at the sight, knowing exactly who it belonged to. His senses weren’t lying, she was definitely in the ocean, and that meant she was in danger. He looked at Allura for a moment, a seriousness washing over his features. “What did you do?” he growled, the siren smirking. “Just one request, your…majesty,” she said, mockingly, twirling a harpoon in her hand, “raise us, or I will destroy them all.”

For a moment, Delphis outstretched his palm, feeling a sense of defeat, but then clenched it, staring the siren in the eyes. “Okay…I’ll do it. But please, just one question. What happened to Golden?” He asked, Allura giving a smile as she continued to twirl the harpoon, glad her little idea had worked. “Golden? Ohhh, is that what you call the pest? But it would ruin the surprise if I told you…” she teased, Delphis clenching his fists further. “Oh, I’m sure you have a lot of surprises up your dainty little sleeves, don’t you? In fact, if I raise the city up, I’m willing to bet you wouldn’t keep your word, would you? You’d just let everyone die if it meant you got your way, you selfish monarch. Have you thought once about what your people want? If they’re suffering whilst you sit here in your fancy palace, surrounded by pearls and delicacies?” he demanded, the queen feeling incredibly offended and gripping the harpoon so hard that it snapped in two. “My people want what I want! Name one person here who wouldn’t agree with their queen! Go on, I dare you, King of the sea!” she challenged, Delphis giving a dry, sarcastic laugh. “Oh? But a good ruler would listen to everyone’s voices, and wouldn’t merely put themselves above others just for their own vanity. A good ruler would make sure their people were safe and happy, and strive for a bright future for all. I would know, I rule the seas and know everyone, and thus, I ask: why don’t you look inside your heart and ask your people if they are truly happy in their current situation?” he replied, Allura scowling and raising what was left of the shattered harpoon directly toward Delphis. “How absurd…you dare waste my time on such pointless discussions?! I will just crush them now, then, and once this city rises, you will bow to-” she was cut off by a blinding blast of light, and three cheers. “STOPZA!”

The siren queen froze in place, her harpoon inches away from the fin decorating Delphis’s chest, who turned with a bright smile. The Wayfinders ran through, followed by Aurora, who was shaking many droplets of water off her plumage, though to the spirit of the sea, they only enhanced how beautiful she was. She soared toward him, though, and he swept her into an embrace, spinning her around as the three keyblade wielders watched with a smile, especially Aqua, who felt her heart soar at the sight. “Mi amor, all the forces of the world couldn’t keep us apart!” he proclaimed, Aurora nodding eagerly and giving him a nuzzle as she buried her face into his shoulder, truly glad to be back with him. Aurora smiled as she held onto him, looking up at him. “My sweet star of the seas…I’m so glad you’re alright.” she smiled, moving a hand up to his cheek and wiping away a stray droplet, before giggling as a slight blush appeared on Delphis’s cheeks. Terra gave a grin. “Nice stalling, Delphis!” he laughed, Ventus nodding eagerly, and Delphis gave them a wink. “No problem! Honestly, I think I had quite the enlightening discussion, too!” he chuckled, Allura scowling but still unable to move. Aqua, though, found herself dwelling on something else, and picked up Golden’s fallen shoe, holding it in her hands, and then looking over at Delphis. “Is…is she here?” the keyblade master asked, Delphis giving a grave nod. “I am sorry, I underestimated what that little troupe was capable of, especially when commanded by Allura. Golden might be here…I believe she’s in the ocean, at least. I…I couldn’t keep her safe…” he mumbled, Aurora leaning into his chest and continuing to hold him. “Ma moitié, don’t blame yourself. You swore to protect every living thing, every creature in these oceans, and that’s what you’ll do. I know it.” she smiled, Delphis feeling as if his spirits had been lifted, which always seemed to occur whenever she was side by side with him. Delphis nodded, resolute. “Of course. I will protect her, at all costs.” he smiled, Aqua feeling as if she’d heard those words before, and putting a hand over her heart. Ventus tugged at her arm. “We should go tell Yen Sid and the others! We beat up those other stupid girls, so they will have gone away, and they will be happy to know Delphis is looking for Golden, right?” he asked, Aqua reaching down to ruffle his hair. She felt a slight sense of unease as she looked down at the shoe, though. Was it really okay to leave the girl here? Allura took note of the last part of Ven’s words, it surprised her they’d managed to get to the siren sisters, but she believed it, considering how incompetent they could be sometimes. “Ohhh, so you’ll just go running back to your little submarine? Is that really all you’re going to do?” she teased, Aqua turning to face her with a harsh glare. “Not if you’ll tell me where you’ve taken Golden.” she replied, Allura giving a little hum and raising her eyebrow. “Who is she to you, anyway? Just some random brat you decided to care for? A sister? A daughter? Who is that little kid to you, and why should I tell you?” she teased, Aqua’s hand tightening around her keyblade. She’d like to see Golden as a baby sister, if possible. It seemed the kid got adopted by absolutely everyone she met, if they didn’t hate her at first glance! Aqua took a deep breath, and met Allura’s eyes. “My sister. And if you’ve got a problem with that, talk to my weapon!” She replied, thrusting her keyblade toward the siren, who broke out of her frozen state and held the keyblade tightly with her tentacles. Aqua was shocked at this movement and tried to pull it away. “You humans…always choose violence. Whether it be harpoons, swords or whatever this is, you never change.” The queen muttered, Aqua having an expression that could freeze the sun, her keyblade being thrown toward her feet. “That’s very ironic, coming from you.” she replied, picking it up and Allura folding her arms. “I have business to attend to, and no intention of fighting you.” she finished, walking away. But Delphis had other plans, summoning a riptide and pulling the siren queen right into his arms. “Oh no, you stay right here!” he chuckled, grabbing some seaweed and wrapping it around her, along with some yarn he’d borrowed from Star. Leaving her tied to the throne, he gave a chuckle and added a cute little bow, dusting off his hands and leading the group away. “Let’s go whilst she’s busy!” Terra encouraged, taking Aqua’s hand, but the older girl looked nervous. Delphis, attentive as ever, gave her a smile, and blew a bubble between his thumb and finger, handing it to her. “Breathe, child. You are allowed to look, and I will see you soon.” he smiled, giving her hair a cheeky ruffle, as if she really was a child. And to a being of 3 billion years, she might as well be. She ran through the halls, now feeling much better and finding air coming easily, whereas before there had still been a slight sensation of being underwater, even though the city had a special magic to it. Delphis gave a smile and waved her off, before leading the group back to the submarine, planning on watching Percy through the window, since he liked to understand how human stuff worked.

The palace was quiet, save for the occasional sounds of jellyfish moving about, and a constant trickling of water. Aqua used her keyblade to glide, finding herself amongst portraits that looked expertly painted. She couldn’t help but stare, yet tried to keep her mind on the main goal, wondering where Golden could have been kept. She turned a corner around two tall pillars, and suddenly bumped into something, or someone. Rushing to steady herself with her keyblade, she looked up and stared at her assailant…though in fact, they weren’t a sea creature or a nymph, rather, a girl. “Huh? Who are you?” Aqua asked, the girl holding up both hands, as if surrendering. Aqua looked closer, she was smaller, but had a kind look in her eyes, despite her face being mostly covered by a blue hood, a cloak stretching down the entirety of her body and covering most of her features. Aqua kneeled, putting her hands on her knees and letting her keyblade sparkle into nothing. “Are you lost? My little sister is too, we can go together!” Aqua smiled, offering her hand for the girl to take, who took it readily. It felt a little funny, but Aqua just chalked it up to being one of the Atlantean people, trying not to mind. Despite her appearance, the girl seemed friendly, and was more than ready to help Aqua. As they walked, Aqua turned to her. “What’s your name? I’m Aqua.” she smiled, the girl detaching herself from Aqua’s grip and signing something with her hands, playing an instrument. Aqua thought for a moment, slightly confused. “Umm…violin?” she asked, the girl making a laughing motion and playfully facepalming, Aqua giggling, before trying again, her smile perking up. “Wait, wait!! Fiddler? Oh, Fiddle!” she tried, a hopeful grin on her face. And the girl, Fiddle, nodded eagerly, taking her hand as Aqua giggled slightly, she definitely seemed nice. Leading her through the halls, Fiddle brought Aqua to a waterfall, and pointed at it. “What’s behind there?” she asked, Fiddle covering her head and walking through, Aqua following. Floor to ceiling was made up of books, jellyfish swimming between them and a blue light cascading down throughout the entire library, Fiddle clapping her hands enthusiastically. Aqua had a sudden realisation- this was where she lived. Fiddle spun on her heel, looking much more comfortable here, and then remembered their goal, leading Aqua the other direction, back under the waterfall and once more pulling on her hood to avoid getting too soaked. As they walked, a thought came into Aqua’s mind, but she was a little worried about hurting Fiddle’s feelings. “Um, Fiddle…? You’re not really like those nymphs or…the Queen. And you live in the library…” she trailed off, the two coming to a halt as Fiddle looked at her expectantly, Aqua watching her fiddle with her hands as she waited for the older girl to finish. “Are you a prisoner, Fiddle?” she asked, the girl looking down. Aqua could tell she was right, and felt incredibly sorry for the young girl, she knew how it felt to be kept prisoner, and swore nobody else would go through such pain. She gently took the girl’s hand in her own, making an oath to ensure her safety, as well as Golden’s, and they walked further through the halls, until they finally reached a locked room. Fiddle wiggled her fingers, a little hint of a smirk on her lips, and reached into her hood, as if performing a magic trick. Then, she pulled out a key, showing Aqua with a hidden smile. “Wow, you stole that from the Queen?! That’s impressive, you must know a few magic tricks that she doesn’t!” she giggled, Fiddle nodding and unlocking the door, staying in place to keep watch as Aqua entered. The room didn’t hold much, merely acting as a cell, but there were bars, and a bed beyond, upon which Golden lay, unconscious. The floor was cold beneath the master’s feet, and she was shaken by the sight of her young friend looking like that, it reminded her of some of Sora’s past conversations about Kairi, and she felt that same protective care in this moment. She blasted a hole in the bars with her keyblade, and ran in, moving over toward the sleeping girl. “Golden, hey, wake up! It’s me!” she insisted, trying to shake the girl, but she remained down for the count, face pale. Aqua gently knelt down beside her, using a healing spell- it appeared the little girl was concussed. She gently stroked her hair with her free hand, and then gasped when she noticed blood on her palm. “Ah, no! D-don’t worry Golden, I’ll heal you as much as I can!” she fretted, quickening the spell and using it over the girl’s head. The wound disappeared, but she was still likely to be a little woozy. As her eyes began to peel open, she caught sight of Aqua, and gave a weary smile, but it took her a few moments to realise exactly where she was. But as soon as she did, she practically threw herself at Aqua for a hug, and the keyblade master was more than happy to oblige. “Aqua!!! How did you even find me?! The sirens, they said that nobody could get here, that it was a secret place!” she exclaimed, leaning her head on the older girl’s shoulder, who gave a smile and gently booped her nose. “You’ve got to thank Fiddle for that, she’s like a little compass!” Aqua chuckled, Golden being confused for a moment, but then realising and giving a small smile. “Thank you…” she mumbled, Fiddle giving a nod and slight smile. Aqua gently helped Golden up, making sure she could walk, and then the three girls hurried through the halls. And, of course, Golden put her shoe back on, too. 

They hurried toward the old Itarian channels, Aqua having seen them and knowing they led to the open ocean, though Fiddle wasn’t as sure. Nevertheless, they went the right direction, Fiddle being sure to avoid the Queen in the process- she did not want to deal with the consequences of being known to help surface dwellers! Regardless, due to it being night, she’d have an easy time blending in, and they kept running. Eventually, they reached their destination, and Golden spotted the boat she’d used earlier, Aqua sitting down and encouraging Fiddle to join her, but the girl shook her head. She pulled up one of her sleeves, and ran her hand across the surface of the water, a patch of turquoise scarring appearing almost immediately, looking like a severe burn. Horrified, Aqua came to a realisation, and both she and Golden spoke at the same time. “You can’t touch water…” they said in unison, Fiddle shaking her head in agreement, before gently motioning for them to leave, Aqua feeling sad at the prospect of leaving her behind. Nevertheless, she reached out her pinkie, leaning toward the girl. “Promise me you’ll be okay?” she spoke, Fiddle nodding and joining her scarred pinkie in response, both managing a smile, before Golden took the oars and started to row, Fiddle giving them a wave and pulling out some pan pipes, playing her melody of sea and sky, of dreams and wishes, and of hope for all. 

As Golden rowed, they began to find themselves in darkness, where bioluminescent creatures appeared with every movement of her oars. Water filled the channel, Golden coming to a slightly frightening revelation- they’d have to row up. She looked at Aqua as their boat filled with water, and the girl gave her a reassuring smile, encouraging her to pass the oars so Golden could focus on holding her breath. They soon drifted into the actual open ocean, the current seeming to work in their favour, and Golden cupped her hands over her mouth, closing her eyes to avoid saltwater making them sting. Aqua focused on rising as fast as possible, but it was hard work, and the boat wasn’t designed for this. And then, a bright light frightened them both, Aqua covering her eyes and moving to shield Golden, who already was curled up and terrified that this would be another showdown with the sirens, and that she’d be put back into prison, no family nor friends to shield her. Aqua realised she’d let go of the oars, and the boat was sinking down, reaching to grab them as they began to sink too, but something grabbed them from behind, making them jump. For a second, Golden resigned herself to her fate, but heard Aqua giggle slightly, and wondered what could have happened. But she was answered by a familiar, friendly chuckle that sounded like a dolphin’s squeak, and a wide smile stretched across her face, even with her eyes still closed. Delphis brought her close to him, giving Frill and Mako a wink, who had recovered from their previous thrashing and were holding Aqua together, who was more than happy to float up, relaxing in their grasp. “Close call!” Mako smiled, Aqua nodding, but Frill shook her head. “We knew you’d make it out, master Aqua! We did prepare to go help you, just in case, but you were so fast, like zoom zoom ZOOM!” she laughed, Aqua also laughing at the enthusiastic moon jelly. “Both of them are a brave pair! And dealing with sirens, that’s no picnic! But now, up we goooo!” Delphis finished, rising further and Golden holding tightly, trusting him to keep her safe and guide her. “Wait, Delphis, what was that light? Was that you?” Aqua suddenly asked, but he shook his head. “No, but it was a signal, one to say you’d come out safely. Look there!” he smiled, pointing down, Aqua seeing the submarine resurfacing alongside them. She waved as Ventus and Terra cheered for her, Ventus suddenly being picked up by a broom in excitement, causing him to be rather flustered, and Aqua couldn’t help but laugh at the sight. Turning, Percy gave her a playful salute, one she returned, and then Aurora rushed through, alongside Starlight and Mickey, making the cockpit suddenly very full. They couldn’t help but wave though, feeling excitement coursing through their veins, and Starlight was so happy to see Golden curled up in the arms of the sea spirit, it gave her nostalgia to how she would often do the same. Being lovingly held was the best feeling in the world.

Once they reached the surface, Golden felt as if her lungs were almost regenerating after holding her breath for so long. She stared up at the dark sky, the night was still pretty young, but the moon was shining down on them all, and causing the tide to shift and change. They moved toward the shore together, Delphis holding Golden on his shoulders, and Percy helped Rocket onto the sands, where the broomies piled out and embraced him in the biggest group hug ever, proud of him. “What a positively wonderful rescue, eh broomies? I had one more missile in my artillery and I think it’s a fair shame I didn’t get to use it!” he laughed, Oswald cringing slightly as he helped Julius and Mickey out of the water. “You and missiles are a scary combination, Percy.” he muttered, Julius mewing in agreement, Mickey lying on the sand and staring up at the stars. “That was somethin’!” he chuckled, Mum sitting next to him. “You did well, though. A fear of water is completely reasonable, but I’m proud of you for pulling through to help Golden.” she smiled, putting her arm around him. He snuggled into her, Julius also joining the hug, and Mum turned to him. “And you too! You both did very well today, you’ve got the makings of true sorcerers.” she whispered, both boys feeling a little blush appearing on their cheeks. Terra and Ventus ran toward Aqua, holding her in a tight embrace. She hugged them back, all three glad they were unharmed and safe. Aurora rushed to hug Delphis, before giving him a kiss, a crimson blush appearing on the sea spirit’s face, almost as red as Aurora herself, due to how unexpected it had been. They earned a few cheers from the Nothing Reef crew, as well as Bluebird, Bee and Flutter, and then Golden peered at everyone, clambering down from Delphis’s shoulders, turning to everyone and then…stumbling forward. Mum immediately rushed to catch her, worried. “Woah, easy…you okay, sweetheart?” she whispered, Golden giggling a little, nodding. “Oh yeah, I…uh, I had a bump on the head, haha! But Aqua saved me, and…also the other girl. I hope she’ll be okay…” she trailed off, hugging her mother tightly. Then Julius, Oswald, Mickey, Percy…everyone embraced her, all except Yen Sid, who was waiting for her a little further up, a smile on his face. She rushed toward him, feeling herself renew in his arms, before he reached up and gently placed her hat back on her head, magically cleaned and new. He noticed the rip in her sleeve, too, and subtly fixed it with a spell. She really was back to normal, and she had a bright smile, which he adored. He was so proud of how well she’d handled a brush with danger yet again, and gave her a kiss on the cheek, his beard tickling her and making her giggle.

The spirits watched the group depart, wishing them goodnight, and Mako whispered something to Cody, who reluctantly handed over his whistle, Delphis staring in amusement and wondering what his boy could be up to. Nevertheless, Aurora and Bluebird bid everybody goodnight, Bee and Flutter following them up into the sky, and the sea creatures ducked down into the depths, Delphis giving Golden a wave goodnight before flipping and following everyone else. And yet, there was still a sense of magic in the air, one that all the apprentices could feel. Yen Sid put Scout in charge of the young cohort, but allowed them to explore for an hour before bed, as long as they stayed out of trouble and stuck together. Agreeing, they took a walk along the beach, finding several interesting rock formations and eventually coming to a lush garden, where there were several beautiful and intriguing statues. Beyond, there was a door overhung by a grass roof, looking like a tropical serenade, and the five of them grew excited by this discovery, moving further in and staring at the statues- until one of them moved. 

He had a face resembling a clock, and water from his mouth would fall into a bamboo funnel, one he dropped into an ever-flowing stream. A horn suddenly blew, startling them all, and there was a ticking from inside the statue. He looked up at them all, giving a smile, and continuing to blow out water as he spoke. “My name is Maui…natives call me the mighty one. I tamed the playful sun, and gave my people time.” he smiled, all five of them staring at each other in wonder as he spoke, amazed that this was even possible. The statue winked, looking at Oswald in particular, since it could tell he was particularly appreciative of humour. “Now they set their clocks by mine, for I am tropic standard time.” he chuckled, before going still, Scout actually rubbing her eyes to check if this was real. Mickey and Julius looked at each other in shock, and Golden moved further, wondering what else might happen. Another spoke, to her left, so she ran over, the rest quickly following. “Alooooha! Wahine me keonimana! I am Koro, midnight dancer!” He spoke, the concept intriguing Mickey. “Midnight dancer?” he whispered, the statue this time being perched atop an ornate drum, face gleeful and excited. Golden stared at the intricate swirls on the drum- one looked like an upside-down heart! “Today my magic feet no move. My head sore! But last night, all tiki gods have biiig time. Some luau!” he continued, Julius imagining all these statues coming alive- so they were tiki gods! Did that mean they were spirits like the others, or completely different entities? He scratched his head, wondering, but continued to listen to Koro’s words. “When drums begin to pound, my head full- big sound!” he proclaimed, drumming intensifying beneath him and causing Scout to feel the rhythm, bopping slightly. A breeze rushed past them, and they turned, seeing two more statues had come alive. One of them was tall, face looking like it was blowing something, eyes closed and mouth in an o, though atop their head, in the wind, a wooden structure turned, with patterns looking like eyes that rotated and watched no matter the direction. The other was smaller, but wore some sort of hat, with a moon-shaped carving atop it, face looking a little nervous. They introduced themselves to the apprentices, who all stared up in awe at them once more. The tall one spoke first. “They call me Tangaroa-Ru, the east wind!” she spoke, another breeze flying by and causing the wood to spin, almost as if summoned by her. “And I am Hina, goddess of rain.” the other replied, chimes sounding, much like rain. “We often travel together, wind and rain, to tropic lands across the seven seas!” Tangaroa-Ru continued, Oswald imagining the violent storms that would sometimes form, but also how refreshing the breeze and a light rain could be, like when rain had fallen after Golden had won against the villains. He turned to look at her- she looked entranced by the display, and Hina seemed to look at her as she spoke. “Come closer, so that you may see what magic there is in fantasy…” she finished, voice ethereal as the breeze quieted, and the chimes dissipated. Suddenly, they were startled by a violent rumble from next to them, the entire group rushing over. There was an angry-looking god, a volcano flaming atop her head, and next to her, a little god upside-down, looking rather nervous as the earth shook due to his fiery neighbour. She looked upon the group and seemed to sneer. “I am Pele, goddess of fire and volcanoes.” she started, Oswald smirking. “No surprise there.” he quipped, but was silenced when she sent a tiny fireball his way, the bunny pulling down his ears in fright as she continued. “Some say I torment poor Ngendi the earth balancer, for when my violent temper rises, the earth trembles at its foundation!” she yelled, all five apprentices feeling the shaking and remembering the time Chernabog had caused this exact sensation- it wasn’t a nice feeling whatsoever. Ngendi shook in place, grabbing hold of the earth, and looked apologetically at the apprentices. “Legends say I’m balancing the earth!” he explained, seeming to shrug, “but sad to say, I’m just hanging on!” he replied, the kids nodding and turning back to Pele, who wasn’t done. “I’m the one who’s really sad…” she spoke, a sorrow coming into her voice that seemed to cut deep into Golden’s heart. She wanted to reach out and help the god, but didn’t want to anger her. Pele looked at her, and her face changed slightly, the corners of her mouth moving up. “For when I smile it comes out mad!” she finished, her volcano erupting in light that caused all five of them to shield their eyes. They turned, Scout feeling something hit her back, and noticed a kite had smacked her. A singsong voice began, the group turning and staring as another god came to life, a basket of fruit atop its head that looked plentiful and delicious, and a face with what seemed to be an excited and silly smile. Golden couldn’t help but smile as she stared at this god, who continued his greeting. “Ua mau ke ea o ka aina i ka pono~” he sang, all the apprentices scratching their heads at what this could mean, though the god seemed to stare at Golden in particular, meeting her smile with his own. “Me Rongo! God of Agriculture. My land sooo good to me, I got time for sport. I fly kite! Me number one kite flyer!” he proclaimed, Scout snickering slightly and moving the kite upward for him. “Too bad, I no have key. Then Me, I find electricity!” he revealed, everyone covering their ears as static began to play, Oswald’s remote and Golden’s glitch all acting up for a second as the earth tremored with sparks. It was over quickly, though, a gong sounding and sending new tremors through the earth. The apprentices all backed away from Rongo, noticing a massive tree shading him, Golden looking a little closer and seeing beautiful carvings on the trunk, as well as what looked like a face. And then, it blinked, causing her to fall back against Ossie, spooked. “Watch it Golden!” he whined, the girl just pointing as the tree began to talk. “I am Tangaroa, father of all gods and goddesses.” he began, voice deep and imposing, causing all the apprentices to stand up straight- it was like when dad had his strict voice! “Here in this land of enchantment I appear before you as a mighty tree. Stand back!” he called, the apprentices all moving on his command but continuing to stare, absolutely awestruck at what they were seeing, but nobody more than Golden. Another gong shook the floor, Tangaroa closing his eyes a moment. “Oh mystic powers, hear my call. From my limbs, let new life fall!” he cried, chimes and gongs alike resounding as several beautiful flowers began to form from his leaves, revealing baby gods, all of whom were sleeping atop clusters of greenery. Golden was amazed, and then noticed something else. Amid the leaves of Tangaroa, a small girl, around the same size as Jules, was watching them. “Linnea, come out. We have guests to our land.” Tangaroa commanded, the girl sliding down the tree trunk. 

She wore a bright green dress, matching her eyes, and had tanned skin, hair a beautiful brown, and weaved into it, a purple flower just like the ones that Tangaroa had, as well as several blue flowers around her neck. “And I am Linnea, demi-god of creation, and your little guide to this world of enchantment and imagination!” she giggled, marching toward them and reaching up to shake everyone’s hands. Scout crouched down onto one knee, very curious about this doll-like girl, and she gave a warm smile. “I love your hat!” Linnea grinned, Scout pulling it off to show her properly- it was almost the size of her. The doll turned back to Tangaroa, who seemed to have a look of approval. “Will the gateway open soon?” She asked, Tangaroa calling out for Maui. “Maui, what time will the gateway open?” he asked, the hands on the god’s face moving in estimation. “I believe…five minutes. According to tropic standard time.” he chuckled, Linnea twirling in excitement. Tangaroa suddenly spoke, though, and startled them all with his words. “I sense that one of you has died. But that is impossible.” he said, extremely bluntly. Linnea became worried, poking each of them to ensure they weren’t ghosts and wouldn’t frighten her, but all eyes fell on Golden, and she stepped forward. “I did. But I came back, sir.” she replied, trying to be polite. Tangaroa closed his eyes, accepting this and seeming to think about it. “I sense a similarity in you and I. All I can ask is that you open your eyes.” he finished, seeming to fall into a sleep. Golden wondered what on earth that could mean, and turned to her siblings, who all shrugged. Then, after a while, a door opened, Linnea leading them forward. “Come, come! Welcome to the Enchanted Tiki Room!” she giggled, leading them down some steps and toward a river, where a canoe lay. “Uti! We have guests! Juan, you here?” she called, the rest of the apprentices following as Linnea jumped into the boat, a torch suddenly lighting and revealing another god, holding a torch above her head that lit the canal ahead. “I am Uti, goddess of fishing. Some say I light the way and draw fish near, but when dawn comes, my torch always seems to disappear.” she explained, before gently putting an arm around Linnea, who snuggled close. Uti began to row, mounting her torch at the front of the boat, and the apprentices found themselves on a ride they’d never dreamed of taking- one boat ride in a day was already special, but two?! Beyond any of their dreams. They continued down the channel, a squawk suddenly echoing everywhere and Linnea standing, holding out her hand. A little blue macaw with a top hat and bowtie perched on her arm, squawking affectionately as she nuzzled it. They passed through a waterfall, which seemed to shimmer with magic, and the bird’s squawks turned to words, Linnea grinning with glee. “Amigos, amigos, caramba, we have something really big for you today. It is the world premiere of the enchanted tiki room. It is our entertainment at its most exciting, best kind! You wait for the show right here with me, after the gods and goddesses perform!” he smiled, his eyes seeming to gleam with excitement. Uti turned toward the apprentices, and pointed with her oar, as they passed a waterfall off to one side, where two other birds sat. They slowed for a moment, the group noticing the birds were perched atop another god statue, one which moved in recognition of an audience. “They call me Citrikua, god of health. They say a fine thing in this life is money, but I believe that with health, comes wealth.” she spoke, and then the two birds atop her began to talk, named Clyde and Claude. “Well hello there travellers!” Clyde spoke, red feathers bright and cheery, as his southern accent shone. “Where are you off to?” Claude asked, green contrasting Clyde and sounding rather posh with a British accent. Linnea smiled. “The Enchanted Tiki Room!” she called back, Clyde’s eyes opening slightly. “Better keep an eye out for Rosita!” he called, Claude immediately shaking his head. “No, no, if they look too hard they could get lost.” The two birds bickered amongst themselves, Uti giving Citrikua a sympathetic nod before continuing to row, taking them through a shining gateway, into a world of pure imagination and enchantment. And everything came alive as soon as Linnea called three familiar words- ‘José, wake up!” A show began for them all, four feathered hosts introducing themselves- José, Michael, Pierre and Fritz, all with different accents and lives. And as the room came alive in song, the apprentices were drawn in, to the magic of the tiki room and the beauty of the spectacle. Linnea snuggled up against Golden, surprising her, something that Michael commented on. “Looks as if you’ve made a friend. That’s rare for darlin’ Linnea.” he joked, Linnea pouting up at him. “If you weren’t a host you’d have no friends at all.” she retorted, the rest of the birds whistling and the apprentices letting out quiet “oohs”. Even the tiki totem poles couldn’t believe her sarcasm, but appreciated it nonetheless. “She’s right mi amigo, nobody would know our names without our show! But that’s what makes it so special, it puts us on the map!” José replied, Michael nodding and winking down at Linnea, indicating his feelings weren’t hurt. He heard worse each day at work with these birdbrains, so it was fun to have a change. Eventually, the group all joined in with singing the national anthem of all feathered friends, but this was cut short as a frightening chant began, several drummers appearing and smoke filling the room, the birds all huddling by Linnea, who looked worried. “I’ve never seen this before, what’s going on José?” she whispered, Juan joining his cousin and cooing in a comforting manner. The apprentices huddled together, protecting the birds and each other, and the smoke cleared, revealing…the goddess of disaster, Uh-Oa.

Her eyes gleamed in the darkness, body covered in markings that would shimmer and move with her. She turned her glowing eyes upon the group, voice ethereal despite her status. “I am Uh-Oa, goddess of disaster. I have been summoned here due to sensing great fear in one’s next chapter. The world will seem to crumble, and fade away to white, but I offer one small comfort- everything will be alright.” Her eyes seemed to pierce through Golden’s soul as she looked upon her, but then she faded away, leaving nothing but a small patch of smoke, and the room brightened up again. The birds returned to their usual spots, gently reassuring the group that it was all fine, and then finished their grandiose performance, complete with a fun ‘magic trick’ to make them all disappear- or walk out the door. Linnea led them back, Uti rowing them, and Juan flew away, ready for whenever the young doll was ready for the next show. She smiled as Rosita fluttered down onto her arm, explaining that she’d become the demi-god of creation after using the Tiki Garden as a hiding place, and that it can disappear and reappear at any time, wherever Tangaroa chooses. Rosita cooed encouragingly, Linnea nestling against Uti, and eventually falling asleep, as it was incredibly late for them all. Oswald lifted Golden onto his back, the group heading back to the hotel, and headed to their rooms, Golden pulling out her drawing supplies and opening her balcony door, where she could watch the waves. Though it wasn’t home, the room was much more homely than her undersea residence, and far better than that awful prison…she needed to thank a few people for saving her, but she decided to start with Aqua, folding paper and cutting and sticking, adding drawings and doing her best to copy the shape perfectly. And by the end of it, she’d made a paper wayfinder, exactly like the one Aqua had. She put one in her pocket and then crept over to Aqua’s room, slipping it under the door for her to find later, and headed back to her room, lying down and keeping the balcony door open ever-so-slightly, just so she could hear the waves and feel the breeze as she slept, like Aurora and Delphis wishing her goodnight. The ocean was calm, as was the sky, so she hoped that if they slept, they would have the most wonderful dreams.

Starlight knocked on Yen Sid’s window, to his surprise, as she was previously zooming through the skies, but she looked a little nervous. Yen Sid walked out onto the balcony, Starlight settling on a small table and rolling onto her back, gazing up at the sky. “What’s wrong, Starlight?” Yen Sid asked, the little glowworm frowning slightly, which was unusual for her. “I’m just worried. Golden seems okay for the most part, but I know she’s afraid of a lot of things. I always get worried about her getting into trouble, and though she’s really good at keeping calm, there’s been times recently that her stress has been taking its toll…” she fretted, Yen Sid gently taking her into his arms and rocking her like a baby. “I don’t know exactly what you mean, little one. Is there something I should know?” he asked, Starlight giving an uncertain nod. “It might be better to ask Aqua, but…I think she worries about dying again.” Starlight admitted, Yen Sid’s eyes changing in surprise. He affectionately rubbed her head, though, and pinched her cheek. “I’ll ask Aqua about it later, then. Thank you for telling me, little star.” he smiled, holding his palm out so she could shoot up into the stars, leaving behind a sparkly trail of purple stardust. He gave her a wave as she zoomed into the clouds, and then turned, noticing Oswald was out of bed. He gave a soft smile upon realising what his son was doing, as he peeked through the door to Golden’s room, seeing if she was okay. Yen Sid knew that despite his snarkiness, Oswald loved his family more than anything, and he was really glad Golden wasn’t too harmed this time around. Yen Sid smiled as Oswald scampered off, not realising he’d been watching, and moved back to his balcony, noticing Scout and Percy were on a balcony further away, seeming deep in discussion.

Scout was sitting on the edge of the balcony, trying to spot sea creatures from afar and shooting stars. She was hanging out with Percy, literally, as the light man was hanging off the balcony like a bat, just as he always did. He turned to her, giving a slight smile. “Scout, you ever wonder about the stars?” he asked, Scout looking down at him, surprised. “I read once that we see the sky only as it was 4 years ago. It takes the light 4 years to reach us, and so if the sky was completely empty right now, we wouldn’t know until 4 years later.” he explained, Scout following and nodding, but wondering why he was thinking such deep thoughts. “Why do so many lights burn out so fast…?” he sighed, looking a little sad, and Scout reached down to take his hand, careful to keep herself balanced. Percy wasn’t exactly used to being so philosophical, but he needed to know the answer to such a burning question, for his own reasons. Scout did a flip back onto the balcony, landing perfectly, and leaned against the railing, peering over at Percy. “Been doing some thinking there, bud?” she asked, Percy pulling himself up and standing beside her. “You could say that, yes. Let me put it this way- I have been thinking about stars, and light. It’s all a part of my magic isn’t it?” he mused, Scout resting her head on her palm as she listened, leaning on the railing. “We sorcerers, as you know, have a connection with certain magic. You with music, Aero with flight, and then there’s me with my light. Why are we connected?” he asked, Scout thinking for a moment. “Well some sorcerers, like Goldie or Julius, are taught, I guess. With me…I think music came from Mum, and Aero? Well you’d have to ask her, hehe!” she smiled, Percy giving a small smile and turning back to the stars. “I suppose you’re right. It has just been on my mind for a while, but I didn’t exactly want to say anything whilst we were still having our little holiday. Even despite the danger, this adventure has been fun!” he grinned, Scout nodding eagerly. “And you won’t believe what us apprentices found, too! This magic garden, with all sorts of birds and wildlife, it was amazing!” she giggled, Percy looking a lot brighter at this. “This adventure has been crazy, but I’m so glad we met so many friends. And Golden was over the moon, hehe!” she laughed, thinking about the joy in her little sister’s eyes whenever she was swimming with Delphis. Scout pondered for a second, though, and snapped her fingers when she got an idea. “Why don’t you ask dad? I bet he knows all sorts of stuff about magic, and why we’re connected with it. It’s kinda his job as a master sorcerer, hehe!” she giggled, Percy looking a little uncertain. “I guess, I just feel a little unsure about it all? But I do want to find out…so will you be there, Scout?” he asked, Scout immediately taking his hand and nodding. “Are you kidding? Of course I will! Count me in, I’m now just as curious as you. So when we get home, we’ll have a little adventure just to complement this big one!” she smiled, Percy giving a grin. “Nice choice of words there! And thanks kiddo!” he smiled, ruffling her hair and spinning her cap on her head. “Well…” he stretched, “I’m gonna call it a night, even balls of light like myself need our beauty sleep, it’s how we stay so sparkly!” he laughed, Scout waving him off as he zoomed, calling out goodnight. She turned back to the waves and stars, and then up toward the moon, the only light now on the balcony. She couldn’t help but wonder if Forte’s words had got to him, even despite it being a while, and resolved to support him through anything he might go through, and protect him at all costs.

Aqua was in Ven and Terra’s room, since Ven had insisted on sharing. They were joking together as usual, and they really were like her weird brothers, as she’d often call them. She shoved Terra at his words, who gave a smirk. “Noooo! Please, that was so embarrassing, don’t make me remember that! Eraqus was so angry!!” She cringed, Terra snickering and ruffling her hair. “That embarrassing moment will haunt you for the rest of your days and you know it.” he grinned, Ven’s eyes wide at the escapades they’d get up to before he met them. “Damn, I wish I could’ve been there, haha!” he laughed, before a knock on the door startled them. Yen Sid opened the door, Ventus nervously giggling as it was far past their bedtimes. Though he needed to sleep, he wanted to be a grown-up like Terra and stay up! But Yen Sid wasn’t here for that, instead, he approached Aqua. “Aqua, I have something to ask you, if you’ll allow me?” he offered, the girl nodding and Yen Sid helping her stand, Ventus and Terra wishing her goodnight and racing to see who could get to bed first. And as Aqua opened the door to her room, she noticed something on the floor, picking it up. “Oh, what’s this?” she mumbled, turning it over. But what she saw almost melted her heart. It was a custom wayfinder, full of drawings of Golden and Aqua together, from calming down to heading back up to the surface, and even when they ate pizza together. Though she hadn’t known Golden long, she felt such a warmth holding this tiny item in her hands, and enchanted it, putting it on her belt to ensure it wouldn’t get damaged. “A Golden original, we call those.” Yen Sid joked, Aqua smiling and the two of them sitting down in chairs in the hotel room, the old sorcerer looking rather worried. “Now, onto more serious matters, unfortunately.” he spoke, Aqua looking at him in slight confusion. “Serious matters?” she replied, Yen Sid nodding. “I see that Golden has taken a real shine to you. You’ve become close.” he smiled, Aqua nodding. “Yes, even though we haven’t been together long, I feel…as if she could be my little sister. She reminds me of myself, especially when I was younger.” she explained, Yen Sid nodding. “Golden certainly has that effect on people, doesn’t she?” he smiled, before becoming serious again. “I feel that there is something she’s worried about, and I take it you’ve picked up on that, Aqua?” he asked, the keyblade master nervously nodding, remembering Golden’s discussion with her. “The other night…I actually went to see Golden, just before bed, and…she was having a panic attack. Not even the regular kind, but she was glitching everywhere, it was pretty scary.” she explained, Yen Sid putting a hand supportively on her shoulder, listening intently. “I managed to calm her down, and she opened up a bit about some stuff that was bothering her. She has all these feelings that are…hard for her to deal with.” she explained, Yen Sid sighing and understanding. “Including…dying?” he posed, Aqua giving a little gasp that he guessed right, wondering how he did it. Upon seeing her face, he gave a tiny wink. “A little glowworm told me.” he smiled, Aqua returning his smile with her own at the thought. “It’s a bit fuzzy right now, but I told her she needs to stay strong. I know she is already, as opening up means you’re stronger than what you think.” she smiled, Yen Sid nodding approvingly. “Aqua, thank you. Thank you for telling me, and for being there for Golden. I’m truly glad she’s found a friend in you.” He took her hand in his own, Aqua blushing slightly at his kind words. “Thanks Yen Sid. Mum said the same thing, hehe.” she chuckled, Yen Sid raising an eyebrow. “The feeling is clearly mutual, then. Now with all that in mind, I think we can work on solving the problems that Golden faces. It may take some time, but I know we’ll get there, that I can promise.” he replied, Aqua nodding, and then giving a warm smile. “You’re an amazing dad, Yen Sid. Just like Eraqus, you’ll know what to do.” she replied, Yen Sid now being the one blushing slightly due to the compliment. He stood up and walked toward the door to her room, turning back as she met his gaze. “With you by my side, I will, Aqua.” he smiled, Aqua waving him goodnight and putting on her pyjamas, watching the waves from afar and spotting Starlight zooming around. Yen Sid went out onto his balcony one final time, too, and stared up at the thousands of stars, as well as the bright, beautiful moon. He remembered his old friend, Eraqus, and how things were always strange, but fun, when he was around. He couldn’t help but wonder what his old friend might think of the entire thing, and gave a smile. Oh well, every day was an adventure, and nothing they couldn’t handle.

Golden awoke to hear someone chucking stones at her window, landing on the hard wooden floor. She yawned, dressed in starry pyjamas and having messy hair due to tossing and turning. She’d had an amazing dream, all about Delphis and sea creatures, even sea volcanoes and these weird and wonderful creatures, and she was a little annoyed that it was interrupted. She was snapped out of it when one of the stones hit her on the head, looking down to see someone in the sea was throwing them up at her window, making her curious. It was before sunrise, so nobody else was at the beach, but she discovered someone had left a swimsuit for her. She got into it, and headed down to the shore, hoping nobody would mind. If worst came to worst, Delphis would protect her, she had full faith in him to do so. Running down, she felt the sand between her toes and smiled, before noticing just who was waiting for her. Mako. He was standing in the water, right next to a small kayak, and raised an eyebrow. “Good morning kid! What do you say we take this for a spin?” he grinned, his little tooth poking out. Golden was a little worried, but remembered she owed Mako after what he’d done yesterday, and agreed, clambering in and taking the oars, Mako joining her and keeping his legs in the water, to make sure he didn’t dry out. The stars were all going away, making way for the sunrise, and it was quiet, the rustling of trees in the breeze and the waves being the only real sounds, apart from the sloshing of water due to her oars. They rowed around the cove a little, Mako smiling, and then he leaned against her, Golden continuing to take them in loops. “So, you’re like me, huh?” Mako suddenly spoke, Golden turning and wondering what he could mean. “Your parents? They’re gone too, right?” he asked, Golden once again remembering how blunt Mako could be, but nodding. “We got separated when I was 5. I never saw them again…” she admitted, Mako looking a little saddened. “Mine died when I was 7. Poachers like the ones yesterday…” he explained, Golden reaching out to take his hand, his tone sounded sad, and it was no wonder he seemed so afraid- he didn’t want Delphis suffering the same fate. “But…even though we’re the same, I want to tell you something.” Mako smiled, Golden turning to look at him in curiosity, though occasionally breaking his gaze to row. “I want you to do one thing for me, okay?” Mako grinned, before putting a hand over Golden’s eyes. He blew into Cody’s whistle, Golden still unable to see but very curious about what could happen. Then, Mako pulled his hand away, treating her to a gorgeous sunrise, and then, from the depths, rose a beautiful orca whale, just like the one from the Shamu books that Yen Sid would read to her. It circled the kayak, Mako motioning to it, and then it suddenly jumped out the water, doing a beautiful, perfect flip, Golden clapping in amazement. It continued to jump and splash, eventually jumping right over the kayak, Mako then taking her hand and pulling her into the water, encouraging her to hold the orca’s fin as it moved her around, gentle but exciting all at once. She could cry from such an incredible experience, but one thing still lingered as Mako grabbed her by the waist, pulling her out the water and back into the kayak, Shamu circling them and making happy little clicking sounds, even waving at her with his fin. “What I want you to do…” Mako finished, his hair wet now from the waves, but having grabbed something from underwater, something he wanted to give her, “is always Believe.” he smiled, handing her a necklace that perfectly matched that iconic Shamu fin, the one that Yen Sid taught her to draw, reminding her of the favourite whale game…and here she was, interacting with a real live killer whale, and a very friendly one! She giggled, looking down at the wooden necklace, and put it around her neck. “Believe in what, Mako?” she asked, the shark giving a toothy grin. “Your dreams, your future, the joy you’ll find…even if the past is hard, and sometimes we feel like giving up, there’s always gonna be happiness ahead. And that’s what we need to believe in, kay?” he smiled, Golden nodding and suddenly giving him a big hug, the shark going red as he was not expecting this. “Thank you Mako…” she whispered into his shoulder, the shark’s face softening as he gently stroked her hair. “It’s nothing.” he smiled, closing his eyes in the embrace, both of them holding each other for a moment. Then, rather amusingly, Shamu tipped them both out the kayak, and took them for a ride, Golden hearing the chimes of a wind instrument echoing as he did. Finally, she spotted Delphis playing it, almost as if enchanting Shamu, but it was merely a call for the reef to awaken for a day of fun. And as Golden zoomed through the now-sunlit reef, she touched the necklace, and smiled. It was true what they said, anything is possible, when you believe. Even the most wild, unfathomable dreams could come true, with enough faith, trust, and just a little bit of dust, and despite everything, Golden had one dream she wanted more than anything, and she’d achieve it, at all costs. She made that promise on that warm summer day, and would never forget it, not for as long as she lived. And as long as she had that necklace, she’d always remember Mako’s words, and the beautiful morning she’d spent here, all thanks to him. She leaned into the whale as he took her around the reef, Mako keeping a watch over her, and smiled. She’d always believe.

Delphis swam up to the young sorcerer in training, slowing down before leaping out of the water and back, giving Golden a quick boop on the nose, making her giggle. “Hellooooo!” he chimed sweetly, letting her grab onto his shoulders as he began to circle around the water where the sunbeams shone down, giving them a gentle warmth. “I declare under Nothing Reef law that one must always get a kiss from a dolphin when you are visiting!” Mako scoffed, swimming after his father and playfully nudging him in the stomach, making Delphis squeak and almost lose his grip on Golden. “You declare it?!” the shark mocked, “You do realise you’re not the only dolphin down here right? We know someone else who’d be all over that law…” Golden tried to hide her giggles, enjoying the sight of her marine friends bicker and play like a father and son; they were much like Yen Sid with his children, particularly Oswald and Percy. The chimes sung out in a beautiful melody as Delphis gave it another whistle, and Shamu swam up, taking the three friends up to the shoreline. Golden rubbed the water from her eyes and spotted a few faces on the beach, there was Mum and the Wayfinders, looking chipper on such a beautiful early morning. Oswald had come out with Julius and Mickey in tow, a mug of coffee in his hand and dressed in a dressing gown that had “Lucky Dad” etched into the chest. Golden waved to them all, as did Mako and Delphis as they reached the sand. “Hey Golden!” Ventus laughed as he ran up the gang, his shoes were thrown aside as he dipped his feet in the gentle seafoam on the waves as they washed up with Shamu coming to a stop, Golden hopped off the large whale, Delphis and Mako noticed the bobbing in the water behind them, Frill had arrived, as did Luma and Mantra as they swam side by side, holding hands. Cody was paddling while on his back, basking in the morning sun as he spotted the beach was now full of people. “Ventus! Aqua! And everyone else is up!” Golden laughed, getting a splash as Delphis sprayed them from behind, getting the already soaked girl all wet again. “Well, almost everyone!” Golden noted, before Scout arrived, fully dressed and a sleepy Aero who had her morning tea in a customised starry cup. Star was up and wide awake, whirling around everyone’s heads and leaving a glowing trail of stardust in its wake. Finally, Yen Sid had appeared, a small smirk etched on his face as he kept his hands hidden behind his back and stepped onto the beach. “Good morning everyone.” he said cheerfully in his usual deep voice. “Looks like you’re all here, that’s good to know…” Everyone turned their heads to him, noticing his demeanour and wondering what he was exactly up to. “Hey dad!” Scout cheered, “It is, isn’t it…? Wait, time out…where’s Percy?” Everyone looked around and about, Percy wasn’t around, it was unusual as he was normally one of the first few awake. Yen Sid pondered at the thought of him still being in bed, but remembered he was hard at work with Rocket yesterday and spent a long time piloting him as a submarine, so perhaps he was catching up from all the excitement and exhaustion. “I reckon he’s having a small lie in.” Yen Sid answered, “I’ll go see to him in a few minutes, best let him catch up on some sleep after yesterday’s little adventure…now, close your eyes everyone, I have a surprise for you.” He winked, and the apprentices all turned around and shut their eyes. Mickey and Golden had to refrain from taking a peek as they waited for Yen Sid’s signal, giggling in excitement for what he had planned for them. “Alright, you may look!” Yen Sid called, and they all turned around quickly, and they stared in wonder, before letting out a few soft gasps and ‘ooohs’ as Yen Sid held out several wetsuits, all crafted by him for each of his apprentices. Scout’s had a little symbol on the front, as did Julius’s. Oswald’s was colour coded to his usual blue, Mickey’s was bright and pastel coloured, resembling Delphis a little, while Golden’s - which she immediately took and held up for a good look- was black and white. “Oh my GOSH!!” she cried in utmost amazement, twirling around as she hugged her wetsuit and darted forward toward the sea. “Look Shamu!! It’s black and white, now I‘ll look just like you! Thank you, papa!” Yen Sid smiled at her, and was a little taken aback by the sight of the ginormous orca whale sitting on the beach, and Golden appeared to be friendly with it already, but that wasn’t surprising and he was happy for her. “My my…that’s a big whale…” he whispered, amusement appearing on his face and in his voice. Everyone went to go and change into their new wetsuits, the sun was now at an angle where it was at its brightest and the weather was a lot sunnier and warmer, perfect for a swim. Mickey stepped into the water, preparing himself to dive in and paddle in the shallow end to get started, Frill moved forward and took his hand, leading into the water and helping him stay afloat. “Well, look at you!” Frill giggled, “Looks like you’re less afraid of water now?” Mickey giggled, gently waving his arms through the clear water, staying upright with Frill’s assistance, paddling his feet softly, Frill eventually let go of Mickey, letting him move on his own through the water as if it was as natural as breathing. “Haha! Aww, gee. That’s definitely a good way to put it!” Mickey smiled, swimming closer to Delphis, who looked quite proud of him and his swimming skills. “I will admit though, I didn’t like the look of those sirens, especially that queen, they were pretty scary!” Delphis grinned and chuckled, recalling how his young cohort of friends helped whoop siren tail and keep them from attacking him and Golden, he moved beside Mickey, gently patting his back. “Ha, nothing a little riptide can’t handle!” he laughed, “Or perhaps two! Especially when me and my crew are there to protect you!” There was a rough splash as Mako snuck up beside Delphis, almost jumping onto his back and trying to overpower him, but it was clear he was no match for the sea spirit, who pushed him off with a chuckle. “A shark is even stronger!” Mako grinned, flexing his arms and posing to look as cool as possible. “Those sirens messed with the wrong guy, SHARK POWER! All the way!!” Delphis smirked, winking at Mickey before he crept up behind Mako, surprising him with a sudden tickle attack on his sides and underarms, sending the young shark into a fit of loud and uproarious cackles. “Just remember,” Delphis snickered, water splashing onto his face from Mako kicking about. “I am still a billion trillion years older than you, pup! So you should always let your dad handle the big guns, no matter how strong and cool you little sharks may be!” He finished with a soft raspberry to Mako’s neck, and ruffled his hair as the younger tried to pull free, feeling ready to chomp at Delphis’s hands if he had to. “Okay okay hahaha!! Get off daaaad hahaha!” Mickey grinned and stifled a laugh, his heart warming at the moment between father and son, reminding him of Yen Sid and himself a little, especially during their more playful interactions. Scout leapt into the water, diving to the reef and taking some extra caution in case any pesky siren showed their faces, but took comfort in the fact that Allura and those three sisters were no longer a threat and Atlantis remained at the bottom of the ocean, she was a tad disappointed she couldn’t have visited the city, wondering if it might have been like the realms, and bound to have lots of treasures or musical scores. Julius entered the water after her, taking to the water easily as Mantra and Luma took his hands  and helped him stay relaxed. “Ooh, usually cats aren’t the biggest fans of water.” mused Luma sweetly. “But you’re handling it very well!” Julius gave a nervous chuckle, but once he was paddling away in the more deeper part of the water, he had no trouble and swam a little faster but stayed close to the shallow shoreline just in case. “Well, I used to be…” he smiled softly. “But now, I think I can handle it a lot better! Hehe…thanks to you guys!” Yen Sid smiled at the joy on everyone’s faces as they swam together and joyfully in their new wetsuits, a good idea for a chance to enjoy being out in the water and playing with one another, knowing it would be the last day tomorrow before they headed back home. The day was getting on though, and he noticed Percy still hadn’t made his appearance, surely he must be awake by now? “Say, are some of you sleeping in today?” Delphis asked, noting how Yen Sid kept looking back at the hotel at the top of the beach. “You certainly did have a really big adventure yesterday!” Scout resurfaced, pushing back her ponytail and squeezing out the water. She was a little surprised that Percy was still not here, but got a small feeling as to why he was late. “Hmm, he’s still not here…?” she said, quickly removing her soaked goggles. “Well, I guess it’s normal to be so tired after all that craziness. Aqua told me at breakfast that Terra and Ventus refused to get up they were so tired! Haha, but I’m sure Percy will his appearance soon! I’ve no doubt he’ll show up in his light form!” Yen Sid gently nodded, he knew Percy and had a good feeling he would soon arrive, so had no reason to feel suspicious about his absence. He decided that if Percy didn’t show up in the next ten minutes, he’d go and see to him. Looking back at the sky, Yen Sid smiled up at who had now arrived, her graceful, elegant wings shimmering like rainbows as they flapped up and down, her whole form descending quite beautifully. In Aurora’s hands lay a small, curled up Starlight, who was still not fully awake and mumbled softly as she remained in a state of dozing. Aurora gave a soft giggle as she held out her sleepy little friend. “And speaking of tired…” She said, “This little one refused to go to bed last night, telling me she was having too much fun to be sleeping. And now look at her! Delphis?” She snuck a cheeky grin at her lover, who silently laughed behind his hand as he gazed at Starlight’s sleepy form, he innocently backed up, creating a small gap between Aurora and himself. “Hehe! With pleasure, mi amor!” And with that he created a small jet stream, which splashed directly onto Starlight, startling her awake and causing her to jump out of Aurora’s hands into flight mode, spluttering as she caught some of the salty taste in her mouth. “BLEGH! Alright alright! I’m up!!” Starlight cried, brushing her tongue down with her small hands to try and rid herself of the taste, though it remained a little near her throat causing her to cough. She glared at both Delphis and Aurora, not happy in the slightest about her cold and wet awakening. “Hmph, that was very RUDE, you two!” Delphis looked away with a playful smirk, as if he had nothing to do with the little trick, he subtly gathered more water into the palms of his hands, hiding them behind his back. “Maybe so, buuuut…” His hands shot out, splashing Starlight again, causing her to try and dodged the droplets of water and sprayed at her, she was quick despite feeling only a slight bit awake, though her quick instincts saved her from becoming soaked a second time. “That doesn’t mean I won’t splash again! Think fast little sky child!” Starlight flew over to Golden, huddling on the back of her shoulders. She pouted childishly, until she noticed what Golden was wearing and gasped, she giggled as she hadn’t noticed the wetsuits the apprentices had on before. “Hey Goldie!” she smiled happily, cheering up as she admired her friend’s new look. “That’s a cute little outfit you’ve got on there.” Golden beamed, taking Starlight into her arms and hugging her close like a little baby, patting her gently on the head. “Thanks Starlight!” She smiled with a wide eyed grin. “Papa gave one to each of us! I really like it, now I look a lot like my second favourite whale, Shamu!” Starlight turned her head, her jaw almost dropped into the sea at the sight of the enormous marine creature, who gave a loud yet majestic cry as it took to the waters again, swimming toward Golden, Mickey, Oswald and Julius and scooping them up onto his head, giving them all a ride. The boys all huddled close and cried out as if they were on a rollercoaster, while Golden had started laughing her head off as she clung to Starlight, who didn‘t really want to look down at the moment! “Wheeee!! Ride Shamu!” Golden cheered, pointing forward to the far distant seas, like a captain on a ship. “Let’s set sail for adventure!!” Oswald let out the most dramatic scream he could, clinging to Mickey and Julius tightly as if they were a lifeline, Julius felt slightly nervous but was enjoying how fast Shamu went as he continued on out to sea, while Mickey meanwhile had his arms up above his head and laughed joyfully as the salty sea air blew in their faces. Taking a seat on the rocks, Yen Sid watched as everyone spent the remaining hours of the day enjoying their time in the sun and sea. Golden and the boys had eventually slid down Shamu’s shiny, rubbery skin with Delphis moving to quickly catch Golden in his arms, letting her swim beside him as the wind picked up, making more waves as Delphis attempted to ride them with Golden surfing on his back. Mickey and Julius were caught by Mantra and Mako respectively, the two young sorcerers now fearless as they manoeuvred through the water, laughing out loud in playful fighting as Mako splashed them and Mantra and Luma blowing bubbles for them to catch. Scout and Aero had created large, magical water hoops for the Wayfinders to air surf through on their keyblades, while Oswald and Cody, who were paddling slowly together by the girls, had created smaller ones for Aurora, Star, Starlight, Bluebird, Flutter and Bee. Mum was on the beach, also watching as everyone played, sitting down beside Yen Sid, who noticed she had an armful of seashells in her arms that she had collected while admiring the scene before them. “I’m going to give everyone a seashell before we head home.” Mum told the sorcerer. “Just a little souvenir from their little holiday here.” Yen Sid chuckled, taking a shell from her and looking at it, it was a cone shaped conch, and was blue in hue. He smirked as he realised it looked like his hat, it even glimmered like it had stars. “This has certainly been a holiday…” he mused softly, unable to hide his gentle smile. “Though, I do hope the children aren’t bothered by the unexpected rescue adventure, especially our littlest.” Mum looked at Yen Sid, before turning back to the gaggle of apprentices, the Wayfinders and the spirits and their cohorts playing in the ocean together, she spotted Golden still on top of Shamu, looking like she was having the time of her life without a care in the world, the look of pure childlike innocence. With a soft giggle, Mum took off the bag from around her shoulders, putting the seashells inside. “The way I see it…” Mum suggested, putting her hand gently on Yen Sid’s arm. “She’s growing, and learning many things…she knows there are tough times, both in the past, present, and future…however, that doesn’t mean she doesn’t see the wonder and the life in our world. She’s still a child, and still sees so much beauty around her, and I just love that about her.” Yen Sid took a moment to think about what Mum said, a small smile etching on his lips. He pondered for a moment about Golden, and seeing the same childlike sense of wonder he had when he was a boy, and when he played with his brothers, Vidor and Ambrose, and even when he was slightly older, he’d have many days outside of training with Eraqus and Xehanort where they’d have times of carefree wonder, just being young lads. How different, yet so similar things were then as they are now. He watched Oswald and Mickey slide off of Shamu’s back into the water, followed quickly by Julius who skittishly slipped off the whale’s back and uncontrollably waved his arms and legs, landing with a big splash. Yen Sid saw some of himself in those boys, especially with how they played and behaved with one another, and how they’d always look out for one another. It made Yen Sid feel…somewhat nostalgic for times gone by.

His train of thought was interrupted by a sudden shout from the water, and it wasn’t a cry for help, but rather a friendly greeting from a familiar face. “Heeeey!” The voice shouted, everyone quickly turned on the spot to where it came from, out in the ocean, a young girl, waving enthusiastically at the group. Her hair was up in a ponytail, and her outfit was a bright, shimmering pink, a feature not unrecognisable to Delphis and Aurora, who both gasped with excitement at seeing the young miss before them. “Mija!! It’s you!” Delphis cried, squeaking excitedly like the happiest dolphin in the world as he dived underwater, picking up speed as he swam quickly toward the girl, Aurora followed gracefully in the air, smiling at her as she reached the young girl and lowering herself down to her, kissing her forehead. “You made it after all, child…we’re so glad you could.” Aurora told her, with Delphis suddenly emerging from the water and giving the girl a massive hug, and Aurora rolled her eyes playfully as she saw that what was rolling down Delphis’s face wasn't the seawater, it was real tears. “MARINA DEAR!!” He cried, giving a tight yet loving squeeze to Marina, whose name caught Golden’s ears- she had heard of a person named Marina on the day she met Delphis! “Wait a second…Oh!!” Golden clapped her hands as she put the pieces together, she hurriedly swam towards Marina, eager to greet the newcomer to the scene of oceanic play. “Hey! So, I heard your name…you’re Marina, right? Delphis mentioned you to me before.” Marina grinned, nodding to the young apprentice, and taking her hands in hers. “That’s me. Hehe, I am sorry I am late.” she told her and the others, who were curiously wading their way over to them. “I did see some of the tricks you and mum were performing! Gosh, it takes me back to the first time we met, huh?” Golden was curious by what she meant by ‘first time.’ but her thoughts were interrupted as she got startled by Mako suddenly making his way past her, his sharp toothy smile baring as he reached Marina, who gave a positively delighted look upon seeing him. “Heeey Marina!” Mako cried, suddenly caught off guard by her giving him a rough pat on the head, causing his cheeks to flush a bright pink, the same hue as her outfit. “Good to see you here too, Mako!” she grinned, her voice sounding cheeky and playful, he tried to push her hand away, but was too red faced to really focus. “Well, you…you are the best one of the family here! Aside from me of course.” the young shark uttered, trying to fix his tousled hair, Marina could only laugh. Aurora took her gently by the shoulders, while Delphis took her hand and rested his head on hers, the two spirits looked so proud, so utterly delighted as they gave Marina a hug from each side, the young girl in the middle smiling at both of them, a feeling of warmth in her chest as she gave them both a quick squeeze back. “Marina, we’re delighted to introduce you to all our new friends!” Delphis cheered, now swimming slowly with his young charge by his side. “Everyone, this is Marina!! She’s our daughter! Ain’t she just the cutest and most wonderful girl you’ve ever seen?! Um, apart from you, mi amor, a-and Frill too! Ahhh who am I kidding…I love you all so much, from every drop of water in the ocean!!” Golden and Marina grinned at each other, it was true that Delphis was just as emotional and all loving as Percy, Aurora patted her love on the head affectionately as he held onto Marina and Mako, who was struggling in his grip as he pouted at the affection. "Now, now, mijn liefde…” She soothed, unable to hold back a soft giggle at his over the top behaviour, something she adored about him so much. “Marina, this is Golden. And here is Mickey, Aqua, Starlight, Scout, Oswald, Julius…” She introduced the young girl to everyone, who was feeling rather amazed at how many there were, but was nonetheless enthralled to make so many new faces. “This is amazing.” Marina mused, shaking hands with Mickey and Scout, and getting a boop on the nose from Star, and Starlight, now fully awake, zipped around Marina’s head in a delightful flight of greetings, making the young girl giggle and shrink a little from the speed of Starlight’s flight. “I like going on trips with mum and dad, we meet lots of new people, but…you’re the most I’ve met in so long! Haha, if only Kobu could have joined us today.” Golden turned quizzically toward Marina, she hadn’t heard of a ‘Kobu’ before. “Kobu?” she asked. “”Who is that?” Marina smiled at her parents, the two of them eager for her to explain. “Kobu is my brother.” Marina replied, “He is just as fascinated with the ocean, and knows all about Atlantis. Hehe, he could have loved to be here, but perhaps I’ll bring him over to this beach the next time you’re here!” Golden smiled, feeling intrigued about who Kobu is, another person to befriend in the future! Marina gave a smile, her curiosity was as clear as the nose on her face, and she motioned Delphis over, who made a picture of the small boy with his bubbles. Suddenly, Shamu made a happy squeak, Golden turning in surprise and Delphis gently rubbing his head. “Yes, Shamu loves Kobu too, don’t you? Perhaps you two have more in common than you realise…” he giggled, Golden smiling and curious about what exactly he could mean. Marina gave Shamu a gentle pet, only to be forced by Mako to do the same to him, making her giggle as Cody muttered a quiet ‘oooh’. It was clear she was just as much a part of this family as the rest, Bluebird hovering next to her and the two starting to chat about fashion, Frill joining the conversation not long after. And Golden turned toward the seashore, noticing Scout seemed deep in thought, and playfully splashed her.

“Hey!” Scout laughed, caught off-guard and being surprised at her little sister’s joke, who merely giggled and raised an eyebrow, as if to say ‘come and get me!’ Yen Sid watched as Scout began to chase her little sister, Aqua joining in and both of them dunking Golden, Shamu coming up underneath and pushing her up with air from his blowhole, so she landed right on top of him. In retaliation, he created a flood of waves with his tail, absolutely soaking the two girls, now they looked a lot like very wet cats! The old sorcerer smiled, knowing Percy would enjoy the sight, and decided to go and see him. Heading up toward the hotel, he gave Sonatina a wave, indicating he’d only be a moment, and headed toward Percy’s room, wondering what on earth the light man could be up to. He gave the door a gentle tap with his knuckles. “Are you awake, my boy? Everyone else has gone down to the beach.” he called out. For a moment, it was silent, until Percy finally spoke up, sounding a little nervous. “A-ah! I’ve just been asleep sir! Be out in two ticks of a watch!” he replied, Yen Sid raising his eyebrow. Percy didn’t usually call him ‘sir’, rather, master was his more endearing term, unlike when the apprentices used it. He stroked his beard in thought for a moment, leaning on the doorframe. “Are you alright, Percy?” he mused aloud, Percy seeming to go silent once more. “Oh, yes, yes I’m fine! Everything is tickety-boo!” he eventually replied, his cheery voice sounding slightly strained. Yen Sid knew when anyone was lying, and Percy was an especially terrible liar, likely because he was so brutally honest all the time, but this was no exception. “Tickety…boo.” Yen Sid dryly repeated, not believing him in the slightest, and almost confused by the term, Percy didn’t say these sorts of things usually. “You can go back down to the beach, I won’t be long, promise! I wouldn’t want you to miss out on the fun!” he continued, Yen Sid’s face continuing to harden behind the closed door. Something was going on, and the old sorcerer needed to know. “Percy, open the door please.” he tried, the light man making several rustling noises for a second before finally replying. “Honestly, sir, what’s gotten you so worried? I’m just getting my things ready! I’ll be ready soon…” he trailed off, Yen Sid feeling a slight frown form on his face from his son’s defiance. “Percival Symphonus. Open the door, now.” he demanded, Percy unable to ignore the tone, knowing just how serious the master was at the present moment. The sound of his footsteps grew closer to the door, and then it was soon opened. Percy stood there, little bags under his eyes, glasses askew. Even his sideburns weren’t as neat as usual, Yen Sid unable to resist reaching out a hand to straighten a stray hair. He looked lost, far from his usual cheerful smile, and it worried the old sorcerer, who knew something was amiss. He surveyed the room for a moment, noticing Percy’s suitcase was open and he’d unpacked several books. Lying on his bed was a photo album, opened to a page Yen Sid recognized all too well, and judging by the crumpled sheets, Percy had just been leafing through it. Yen Sid knew he had to be strategic, though, as Percy tended to hide when things were bothering him, even when he was little. Astra had always been able to coax it out of him, though, and Yen Sid remembered their strategy, deciding to employ it here. “Is something wrong, Percy? You lose something?” he offered, acting as if he didn’t know what was wrong, and thus planning to catch Percy out through his own words. “Oh, hehe…nothing really important, just going through the old books! Besides…I’m careful not to lose anything again.” he smiled slightly, Yen Sid raising an eyebrow. So he was being particularly nostalgic…strange, considering he’d always been the type to charge forward toward the next big thing, rather than dwell on the past. Nevertheless, Yen Sid decided to humour him. “Ahhh yes, I remember when you lost your spellbook in the woods back when you were 11, you were in quite a state. Do you remember how Astra enlisted Izin, Aphi and Mercurio to find it for you? They wouldn’t give up!” he smiled, a tiny light appearing in Percy’s eyes at the thought. “I really thought I had it on me, master! Besides, I was worried you’d reprimand me…you were quite understanding, though.” he admitted, now able to meet Yen Sid’s eyes and giving him a slightly more genuine smile, Yen Sid nodding. “I made plenty of mistakes during my apprenticeship- such as the infamous banana incident- and we all do, Percy. Otherwise, we would learn nothing and become stuck in our ways.” he replied, Percy nodding in agreement. “That is true…and you all did help me retrieve it after I told you.” he finished, Yen Sid giving a slightly nostalgic smile at the memory. They were just as close as Golden and her siblings, once upon a time, and he knew it might do Percy well to revisit his old friends, perhaps in time he could track the four of them down. “Of course, if you need anything I’ll never mind helping. Anyway, care to tell me why you’re cooped up in here on such a beautiful day?” he finished, Percy suddenly looking nervous again and glancing down at his feet. Yen Sid gestured him to the window, the two of them now standing side by side as they glanced out to the beach, where a wondrous scene was taking place with everyone, Percy had to rub his eyes as they adjusted to the sudden brightness of the sky, he saw that all the others down there on the beach were laughing and cheering, they were all having fun. Mickey and Oswald were building a sandcastle, one that looked just like the castle belonging to Cinderella around Ventus, who appeared to be more than happy to let himself get buried up to his neck. Julius was channelling into his cat-like instincts as Frill was creating lots and lots of bubbles, blowing them in his direction as he tried to catch them, looking much like a kitten trying to catch a feather on a stick. Aqua and Terra were now sat on the warm sand, they appeared to be giggling as they watched Ventus become a base for the sandcastle, all while chatting amongst themselves, perhaps remembering their first time on Destiny Islands. Scout and Golden were now riding on top of Shamu, the two of them helping to pull Marina on top to sit with them, with Delphis giving her a boost from the bottom. Once Shamu blew water from his blowhole again, it cascaded down on the girls like a shower of rain, causing them to laugh as they tried in vain to shield their heads with their arms. Aurora watched from the sky, flapping her wings gracefully as she watched everyone play in the cool water, or relaxed on the sand while basking in the sun. Bluebird and Flutter were right beside her, talking together as they avoided any splashes of water, while Bee was chasing Star and Starlight in merriment, looking not so serious as he tried to win against them in a little race. Mako and Cody were now in some kind of water wrestling match, both of them trying to dunk the other using their strength, but neither appeared to be winning, only stuck in a draw as Mantra and Luma playfully coached them. “Oh my…” Percy said softly, carefully placing a hand on the glass of the window, he could hardly blink away…he thought to himself how much fun they were all having down there, and without him…”Percy? Is there something so important that you couldn’t come down and enjoy the last day here?” Although Yen Sid’s voice was kind, Percy couldn’t help but feel a strong pang of guilt in his chest. Still yet, he swallowed any sign of unease and turned to his master, putting on his usual bright, cheery smile and adjusted his glasses a little more. “Oh master, it’s nothing at all!” he beamed, gently brushing off some sand off of Yen Sid’s shoulders that had been blown onto them from the wind, which the old sorcerer himself hadn’t even noticed. “Come on, the day is still young! Let’s go down there now!” Percy turned to his messy room, and pulled up his sleeves like he was about to get to work on a difficult task, rubbing his palms, he gave a quick flick of the wrist, and the room began to tidy itself within seconds, all the papers, the extra clothing that had been laid out for packing, even the bed was looking a little neater. Soon enough, it was looking like a bedroom that hadn’t been touched, ready for new guests with a welcoming atmosphere. The younger sorcerer then gave a little jump, transforming as fast as lightning into his little ball of light, and exiting the room in a flash, Yen Sid was slightly confused at his behaviour, it wasn’t like Percy, but he thought perhaps he just needed to be out in the sun and have a good time with the others on their last day, and enjoy himself. Folding his hands into his long sleeves, Yen Sid took his leave, walking the hotel halls to the outside and following Percy’s trail of sparkly light. Once he stepped back into the warm, yet breezy outdoors, the wind from the sea almost blew his hat away! Gripping it tight, he spotted Percy on the beach, back as a human already and waving to all the others with great enthusiasm. “HELLOOOOO EVERYONE!!” Percy cried out, the sun beating down on his face, he hadn’t seen such a beautiful day in so long. Scout grinned and took off her hat, waving it at Percy in return. “Hey! What took you all year, slowpoke?” she said humorously, holding onto Shamu’s dorsal fin as the giant whale turned back toward the beach. “We were worried you’d gotten lost or something! You sure you know how to handle the muse?” Percy smirked at her comment, removing his hat and shoes as he sat on a nearby rock, noticing that Mickey and Oswald had just finished their sandcastle, it looked like a work of art! “Very funny Scout.” Percy replied with the same tone of sarcasm. “But some of us take our time getting ready, but that doesn’t mean we are early nor late, just on time! So, what has everyone been up to?” He was suddenly windswept by the immediate rushing of the broomies, all seven of them wearing colour coded Hawaiien shirts and carrying assorted trays of food and drinks, two of them were even carrying a cooler full of ice. “Egad! Where’d you lot come from?!” Mickey and Oswald both laughed, giving each other a high five as they finished up their masterpiece, noticing Ventus had fallen asleep under the cool sand and leaving him to his slumber. They both rushed over to the broomies, one of them holding out a plate of hotdogs. “Ooh hotdogs! My favourites!” Mickey smiled, already devouring his hotdog within seconds of picking it up, the broom handed him another, which was drizzled in ketchup and mustard. “Well, to answer your question…” Oswald said as he chewed on his hotdog. “We built sandcastles, did some surfing, rode an ORCA WHALE…chilled out, generally hanging out! And now, we dine on lunch!” As Oswald chowed down, Aero skipped over to everyone, wearing a starry, sparkling sundress. She too was carrying a bag to put seashells in. One of the broomies handed her a glass of pineapple juice, complete with a little umbrella. “Thanks broom number 5!” She grinned, taking a big sip of the cool juice, she looked to Percy, who had already changed into his own wetsuit with a snap of his fingers. “Aren’t you having something to eat too, Percy? We didn’t see you at breakfast.” Percy smiled and wagged his finger in a somewhat authoritative kind of way. “Nope! You know you shouldn’t eat before you swim! It can be rather uncomfortable. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to swim in the big blue!” Percy backed up, gaining a running start before he sprinted to the sea, he leapt like a professional diver and disappeared under the water, the shells, fish and corals beneath the water’s surface were bright and shimmery. All the fauna and flora undersea were all very beautiful, and as Percy swam, he found himself becoming incredibly distracted, his thoughts clouded his mind, and he slowed down near a sandbank near the bottom of the beach. “Oh dear…look how late it is…” Percy thought to himself, drifting slower and slower, not even paying attention to the little fish anymore. “I couldn’t tell them. I just couldn’t. They’d only worry, and…oh for goodness sake! This won’t ever do, but how am I supposed to say anything? Tell them everything?? Would they worry more if I told them or…NOT tell them? Oh my goodness, my mind really does wander too much!” Percy’s thoughts became more and more intense and overwhelming, he couldn’t stop overthinking. He felt it was silly, but at the same time he couldn’t get it off his mind the more and more he thought about it. He continued thinking and thinking, to the point of becoming too distracted to remember he was even underwater, even when his vision was getting blurry, and everything became distant and dark, the air leaving his system. 

Back on the surface, everyone was sitting on the beach, having finished their lunch. Golden and Scout were giving Oswald a look of disgust as he let out a loud burp, though he did excuse himself afterward, their expression making Mako laugh in a typical boyish manner. “Eww! Oswald, that is gross!” Golden groaned at her brother’s behaviour, Oswald only smirked as he wiped his mouth with a napkin. “And burgers too? I don’t know how you guys can even stomach those!” Oswald gave a shrug, and Mickey giggled as he sipped his little can of juice, having finished five hotdogs and was feeling rather full. “They are delicious Goldie, though I don’t think I could have another bite.” he said, leaning himself against Sonatina, patting his stomach. Sonatina gave him a little ruffle on the head, giggling at the sight of him. “But you know, a pastry is good too! You were smart to nibble on something lighter.” Golden nodded, agreeing highly on the statement that pastries were good, perhaps even better than hotdogs and burgers. She ate the last piece of a chocolate croissant, but still felt a little hungry, she looked at the assortment of foods on the blanket, and picked up a cheese sandwich. “Mmm, this will do next! I’d have a doughnut, but I’ll leave those Percy, he hasn’t had lunch yet but I know he loves a strawberry doughnut!” Scout smiled, taking note that Percy wasn’t here, yet again, but this time in the water swimming, then something clicked in her mind that told her it wasn’t good news. “Hey, speaking of Percy,” She said. “he hasn’t resurfaced yet, has he? I…I don’t think I’ve seen him come up!” Everyone was suddenly alerted, all of them looking toward the sea, and how calm it was. Even as Delphis, Mako, Shamu and the others were floating in relaxation on the water’s surface. Scout got to her feet, rushing to call out to Delphis, even Golden got up and wanted to see where Percy was, feeling a little scared, but the broomies told her not to go any further. “Delphis!!” Scout cried anxiously, quickly grabbing the attention of the sea spirit as he poked his head up, much like a curious dolphin. “Delphis hurry, Percy hasn’t come up for air! He might be in trouble!!” Delphis quickly sprung into action, and dived into the water in search of Percy, Mako, Mantra and Luma following him behind. Being daylight, it was easy to spot anyone under the water, but Delphis’s eyesight allowed him to see in the darker depths of the ocean.”Percy! Percy, hey!! Where are you? Please tell me you’re playing hide and seek…?” Though Delphis tried to keep things light and humorous, he did have a feeling Percy might be in danger and it was his duty to protect those in his waters, knowing he didn’t stop at anything to bring Golden back and save her from Allura’s clutches. In the corner of his eye, he spotted Percy, floating in the middle of the water, his head down as bubbles floated around him. “OH NO!” Delphis squeaked, picking up speed as he rushed toward Percy, he, Mantra, Luma all held him up, he was unconscious. “Ahh, Percy! Wake up!” Luma cried, giving him a little shake, but he wasn’t roused. The three of them raced up to the surface, not wasting anymore time in getting Percy back up and safely back on the beach. With one splash, they reached the surface and breathed in the fresh air, inhaling the salty seabreeze. Delphis helped pull Percy onto the shore, with Luma and Mantra assisting him to place the young sorcerer gently onto the sand. Everyone else had rushed over, although they tried not to panic in this intense situation, seeing Percy out cold was not a sight they had wanted or hoped to see. “Percy!! What’s wrong?” Golden cried, clinging to Yen Sid’s robe as she tried to get near him, wanting to try and wake him and feeling fearful that he might be in a worse state, maybe even in a coma. Yen Sid held her back a little, taking her small hand into his gently, trying to reassure her the best he could, he leaned down to her level, giving her a small smile. “Easy, lunula.” he told her softly, squeezing her hand and patting her on the back. “Percy just swallowed some saltwater, which is gross…but don’t worry, he’ll be alright.” There was a small groan from Percy, he appeared to be stirring, if only slightly. Yen Sid and Sonatina moved a little closer beside Percy, kneeling by him on each side. The two of them extended their hands and began to wave them over him, a small, pale blue light began to glow on Percy’s chest, which slowly moved up toward his throat as Yen Sid and Sonatina motioned their hands a little further up. Then once the light had reached Percy’s face, his eyes flashed opened and he shot up into a sitting position, immediately spitting out a load of water and coughing harshly, he tasted the salt on his tongue and in his disgust, began to wipe away the taste from his tongue with his own fingers. “Urgh, ick! Disgusting!” Percy exclaimed, still coughing briefly as he spat out the last of the water. “Ugh, never have too much salt, that stuff is nasty…” He was overcome with sudden surprise as a pair of small arms wrapped around his neck, he looked down to see Golden, appearing a little distressed but also very relieved, he slowly but gently returned the hug, patting Golden softly on the head. “PERCY!!” she wailed loudly, holding on tight as possible as if Percy were to disappear into thin air at any moment. “Thank goodness you’re okay! I thought you…you might have…oh please don’t do that again!” As she wept onto his shoulder, Percy quickly put together in his mind what had happened, what he had done, and felt his heart sink. He had been careless, and the consequences would have been terrible. So terrible that he wouldn’t have been able to take them back…once again, he felt guilt wash over him, but instead of showing it, chose to put on a smile instead as he parted the hug, giving Golden a firm but friendly pat on the shoulder. “Oh now, Lumen! I’m alright!” he chortled, his cheeks turning a bright red in his embarrassment. “Typical Percy, eh? I got distracted by all the beautiful fish, and the…delightful seaweed! Yes that’s it, and I forgot to breathe…hahaha!” Yen Sid frowned, he could tell Percy was acting a little odd, perhaps it was just to cheer Golden up after the frightening ordeal she and the others had just witnessed, but Percy definitely wasn’t being his usual self, he would surely not end up in the terrible situation of almost drowning by being sidetracked by something he saw underwater. His eyes met Scout’s, she looked quite worried herself, and he could tell she was thinking the exact same thoughts as he was. “You look pale…” said Marina, who was crouched down next to Percy, she began to check him over for any signs he might be hurt, or sick from the water ingestion. “Are you alright?” But Percy didn’t answer right away, his mind was starting to race already with several thoughts. “Delphis saved you! Didn’t he?” said Luma in a cheery voice, she was holding on tight to her leader’s arm with a soft look of adoration. Delphis smiled and gave a nod, before noticing Percy looked slightly anxious. To the surprise of everyone, Delphis moved closer and picked the light man up, holding him in a tight embrace. “Don’t worry, accidents happen. And that’s alright, Percy.” he smiled, Percy looking up at him, a little lost but silently glad to be close to someone else, and be given the comfort he needed. Delphis was very emotionally intelligent, just by looking at someone he could tell their feelings, it likely came from both years of experience and his dolphin roots, but the curve of a lip, a slow blink, a brush of a hand, all of it was his realm of expertise. He could tell exactly when Mako was lying about something, when Frill was afraid, without even asking. And right now, he sensed an anxiousness in Percy, and wanted to soothe him. He turned, noticing Golden was clinging to Mako slightly, just as he had done to Cody the day before, and was trying to dry her tears, but the thought of her favourite light man disappearing just like that, in the snap of her fingers…she held Mako tighter, and he was fine with that. Delphis looked back at Percy and gently shook his head. “Percy…you needn’t worry. You’re safe now, everyone’s happy to have you back, and you’ll always have a friend here, alright?” he smiled, Percy nodding and taking a deep breath, reaching out to touch Delphis’s arm, the wetsuit was soft and squishy as ever. And after a few moments, he was feeling a little better, opening his eyes again and Delphis helping him stand. “I’m…going inside for a while.” he croaked, turning into light and zooming off, locking his door and closing his curtains as he entered his room, where he would stay.

Julius, awkwardly, kicked his feet in the water. “I…I sure hope he’ll be alright, and feel better soon.” he sighed, Terra nodding and coming to sit next to him, being a little surprised when Julius nuzzled him, betraying his worries. Aero nodded, noticing Golden looked a bit shaken by everything, and was still clinging to Mako…she approached the younger apprentice, and held out her arms wide, letting Golden just run into them. She held her for a moment, Aqua approaching, and the boys glanced at each other, noticing how clingy their little sister was being…Oswald sat and kicked his feet too, just like Julius, and stared up at the sky, a little thought coming into his mind as he used his hand to block the sun. If not for Percy…Golden wouldn’t have met them, so it was no wonder she wanted him to be safe, she probably viewed him as her hero. The thought made him smile a little, and he turned back to look at her. She looked better, and was holding Aero’s hand, drawing pictures in the sand and Aqua joining them as they all wrote their names. “Do…do you think Percy’s tired now?” she asked, Mickey moving over to join them and drawing his famous silhouette. “I guess so…” he looked up, and then noticed Yen Sid’s face, concern flickering across his face. “Dad?” He mumbled, Yen Sid being pulled out of his train of thought and looking down. “Oh, yes Mickey?” he replied, Mickey nudging Golden, who also looked up and noticed his expression. “Are you okay? You don’t look too happy…” Mickey asked, Yen Sid’s eyes changing slightly, but his frown was largely the same as his normal concentration, though with a hint of worry. Oswald also turned, and immediately cringed, nudging Julius too, and Scout following his gaze. “Quite the opposite, old man, geez!” he spoke- Yen Sid looked almost like he would give a telling-off, or focused beyond belief…either way, he didn’t look happy. Yen Sid sighed, pulling off his hat and running his hand over the fabric, calming himself a little. “I’m alright children, just worrying about you all as usual. I usually can tell when someone is acting off, or when they’re in a bad spot, it’s something I learned from my own master…” he trailed off, thinking back to Master Grey’s words from his childhood, about his brother…he tried not to think about it, though, and looked up from his hat. “We need to be there for your brother.” he spoke, the apprentices all looking very determined, eyes shining with their love for Percy, and hoping their silly light man would be okay. That is…until Delphis splashed them all, distracting them from their thoughts and reminding them to enjoy their last day in Kookaburra Cove.

Percy remained in his dark room, pacing around as his thoughts raced and raced, he couldn’t focus. Gritting his teeth, he rubbed at his temples, throwing himself at his bed and burying himself under the blankets. They weren’t as soft and comfy as the several blankets he had at home, but they were enough to shield him from the outside, at least in his mind. “What was I thinking?!” he whispered in agitation, mostly at himself, he was completely livid at everything that had just transpired. “I always…always mess things up! Oh dear, it’s….it’s no wonder they threw me away, I’m nothing but…useless…trash?!” He squeezed his eyes shut, trying to close away his thoughts in the process, it was a difficult task as his mind continued to overwhelm him with overthinking several thoughts and ideas. He thought he could possibly sleep it off, especially considering he hadn’t gotten a wink of sleep the previous night. “Maybe…I should sleep. J-just…please, stop…stop for a moment…! I beg you, just stop thinking these thoughts!!” He stayed under his bed covers, surrounded by nothing but the dark, and the warmth, it was gentle enough to soothe his aching head, and his eyes remained closed as tiredness overcame him, letting him drift off into a dreamless sleep, while whispering softly and solemnly. “Was I just not good enough?” He opened his weary eyes, feeling heavy but also as if he barely drifted off, he sat up on his elbows, rubbing his eyes roughly, and then realising he still had his glasses on. “Ouch…” he murmured, taking them off and placing them on the bedside table. “I’ve done that before…Aero has too. Goodness, I feel like I haven’t slept at all…what time is it even?” He pushed off the blankets with little effort and swung his legs over the bed, making his way over to the curtains as his eyes adjusted to the soft light that peered through the top of the windows. He gently pried the curtains open, seeing the sky was completely black, the moon was shining down on the ocean, and the nearby houses and hotels had all of their lights on. “It’s NIGHT?!” Percy exclaimed suddenly, had he really been asleep that long? He grunted in annoyance, but decided that there was no time like the present. He turned to his suitcase, the huge, oversized one he’d carry with him when he travelled. He lifted the large heavy case onto his bed, choosing to pack while he was alone, at least this way, he felt he wasn’t spoiling anyone’s day or enjoyment. He quickly glanced at the clock, it had just turned after seven. “Hmm, I guess everyone must have gone to bed?” He thought to himself, folding his long robes into neat little squares, and the wetsuit he had used briefly earlier, he felt sad he couldn’t have gone out and swam with the others for long, and only ended up worrying them. “Hmph, Percy you killjoy…” he sneered, before stopping himself, feeling a small sense of regret build in his stomach. Why would he be a killjoy? He always managed to make others smile, and make a day fun for himself and everyone he loved, especially when he was a boy, when he played with his best friend…who always enjoyed running and playing, and performing magic with him together, even when they suffered that little injury from a rogue Midnight Maw. “No, pull yourself together Percy. You’re…you’re a good…person. Yes.” He flinched suddenly as there was a knocking at the door, followed by the sound of faint, joyous laughter. “Percy? You in there? Are you alright?” It was Scout, she sounded happy, and softly understanding and caring, Percy felt a little bad as he stayed quiet and did not answer her straight away, and only continued to fold his clothes and gather his things. “Are you asleep? We’re about to go grab dinner! We’re gonna go all out tonight before we fly home! You in or not?” Percy gave a soft sigh. Shutting his suitcase, he went and picked up his nightshirt and hat, as much as he wanted to join them, he couldn’t bring himself to right now. He felt something was hindering him, as if there was a glass barrier between himself and the door. “Oh, it’s quite alright Scout!” he shouted back, sounding as chipper as he normally was and trying to shrug off the tiredness he felt in his eyes. “I’m just packing for the home flight, and besides, I’m not too hungry. You all can go and enjoy dinner without me!” Scout stood at the door, she had a feeling he’d say that. Percy was always a big eater, and food was usually the first thing on his mind, a trait he shared with Golden. “Are you sure?” Scout pressed on, just to see if her suspicions were correct. “For dessert, we’re having ice cream cake, your favourite!” Percy stopped midway pulling his nightshirt over his head, staring blankly at the mention of his favourite food. “Ice cream cake…” he whispered. He sighed, finally pulling his head through the opening of his sleepwear, shaking his head in mild annoyance and guilt. “It’s okay Scout, please…don’t let it bother you. I can go without tonight…but thank you.”

Behind the door, Scout raised an eyebrow, Yen Sid matching her expression perfectly. He’d been standing behind her the entire time, listening to the conversation, and outstretched his hand, Scout reluctantly walking away and clinging to him slightly, not liking Percy’s behaviour one bit. And by the looks of it, Yen Sid wasn’t particularly fond of it either. They descended the stairs down toward the hotel bar- the hotel itself was distinctly tropical, hibiscus engraved in the wall, and beautiful mosaics lining the stairwell, depicting all sorts of beautiful underwater creatures, resembling Allura’s palace. As they walked down, they crossed a nice area with a pool, and then a little deck area with some ping pong- Julius and Oswald were actually in a fierce match, but Oswald was using his flight to his advantage, infuriating the competitive cat. And equally as hilarious, the brooms were practising high dives in the pool, confusing several other residents as to why seven brooms were flipping and splashing. Nevertheless, they all felt the absence of their favourite light man, and Scout turned to Yen Sid, still holding his hand, though neither minded. “Percy never, ever, not in the history of humankind, refuses an offer for ice cream cake!” Scout proclaimed, the two coming to a momentary halt in front of the bar area, the girl rocking on her heels. “Indeed…what was it you said earlier? He was questioning some things about light and stars?” He asked, Scout nodding. “Yeah, he seemed really interested in it all of a sudden, like I know he loves his star charts but I was still like ‘time out, why do you care?’, y’know?” She replied, Yen Sid nodding and stroking his beard, actually starting to braid a tiny section in thought. “I don’t like it either, my dear. But no point in dwelling on it now, we shall talk to him when we get home, and I promise, we will get things sorted.” He answered, giving her hand a little squeeze. Scout huffed, typical teenager, but nevertheless nodded. “Alright, well I hope he’s okay, and whatever it is that’s bothering has an easy fix!” She smiled, putting a hand on her hip and leaning slightly, before noticing someone was waving at her from the bar. Dressed in a cute little turquoise shirt and tights, Golden was grinning at her. She’d even found a little skirt that looked like her wetsuit, and was proudly wearing it alongside the necklace Mako had given her- she almost looked like a whale herself! Scout smiled, raising hand to wave, and approached, noticing the young girl was sitting alongside Aero, Aqua and Mickey, all of them eating something together- and it soon became apparent why they were in such good moods. In a basket decorated with paper that looked like corals, was garlic bread, and the four were happily munching, Scout and Yen Sid pulling up a chair and sitting alongside them. At the very least, both master and daughter were glad to see their littlest looking brighter, after all the chaotic shenanigans of their oceanic exploration, and it made them so happy.

Eventually, it came time to say goodbye to their new oceanic friends. Everyone put their luggage in Rocket, who had been enjoying the beach the entire time and needed a little wash from all the sand, and headed down to the seashore. There they all were, Delphis already looking sad that they had to go, and Golden running into his arms, she didn’t care that she’d get soaked, she wanted to hug him! Delphis smiled tearfully at her embrace, and held her tightly, hoping they’d see each other again. Cody blew his whistle, reminding the group to hug the others too, and everyone shared their hugs and well wishes, Aurora and her little troupe descending too and embracing them all. Even Percy was glad to receive a hug from the sea spirit, who gently booped his nose. “I will miss you all sooo much!! Please, come and visit again soon, I want to see you as soon as possible! Why don’t you come back tomorrow?” he giggled, everyone chuckling at how emotional he was getting, and Aqua noticing Golden was silently wiping her eyes, walking over and putting an arm around her. Mako noticed too, and gave his signature toothy grin. “Golden, next time you gotta come down to the reef properly! We can play tag team, where we’ll sneak up on dad and tickle him, and we can explore the wrecks, you’ll be amazed at what we do! We can swim with turtles, encounter orcas, we can go on adventures with his dolphin pod…you gotta come with us, you just gotta!” he encouraged, Golden smiling at the idea, not crying quite as much now. Mako was suddenly hit with a jet of water, sticking out his tongue due to the unexpected blast. “Shush, you’ve never actually managed to win tag team once, pup! But he’s right, my domain is always open to you, child, and all of you in fact!” he smiled, everyone excitedly imagining the next time they’d be diving into the blue. But for now, it was time to go, Aurora giving a smile. “My domain too, we are a partnership after all, hehe! This has truly been one incredible adventure, farewell and safe travels home- oh, and look out the window on your way!” she giggled, Golden finally wiping her tears and nodding, the entire group giving her one big hug that Yen Sid captured for his photo album. As they piled into Rocket, she turned back, giving them one last wave. “Goodbye everyone, thank you!” she called out, all of them waving and ready to put on one last nighttime show for the family. The broomies made sure everyone was strapped in, Golden once more sitting on Mum’s lap, and they all began to pat their laps, rising high above the ground and blasting off. Yen Sid sat down beside Percy and watched him man the controls. For a while, it was pretty quiet, the Wayfinders teaching Ventus a hand clap together, and then the sky lit up in a spectacle- just like her name, Aurora had summoned the aurora borealis, and they were absolutely breathtaking, a rainbow of colour and light that cascaded through the night. A red macaw, followed by a bluebird, bee and butterfly, streaked by the window, and Golden looked down to see the sea was lit up, bioluminescents creating pictures below and Luma lighting up the night with her dazzling dress, Delphis drawing in the bioluminescence- first he drew a sorcerer hat, then he drew an orca tail, Shamu popping out of the water and waving his fin, and then he lit up the ocean with thousands of heart shapes, reflecting the aurora and making everyone gasp in awe, Percy even smiling warmly at the display, his eyes sparkling in amazement. It reminded Yen Sid of when he was a boy, how he’d loved his light magic and drawing pictures with it…he wondered, a photo album obviously captured memories, and turned to stare at Percy slightly. Perhaps he’d been searching for something in particular, but that would be for tomorrow. For now, a good night’s rest would do them all well. He turned round to see Golden leaning on the window, Mum playing with her hair as her eyes drooped, but fixating on the thousands of hearts she saw below her, as Delphis waved up at her. They flew over the islands again, now decorated with little lights from the people who lived there, and Golden looked down at her own heart, putting a hand on it. She smiled, her eyes drooping, but feeling part of something far greater, something far more. 

By the time the sun rose, Percy could see the castle just a few miles away. It was a beautiful picturesque scene with the trees, the mountains in the distance, along with the splashes of yellow, orange, red and blue in the morning sky, he knew they were all now truly home. Looking into Rocket’s mirror, he saw everyone was fast asleep, Julius and Mickey were even using their luggage to rest their heads on. Starlight was bundled next to Star in Golden’s lap. The Wayfinders were looking rather comfortable together, Ventus and Aqua were on both sides of Terra, their heads were on his shoulders like they were their own pillows. As Rocket came into landing, Percy pulled out a small lever on the dashboard, which opened a port on the roof, something long and large was descending from it, Percy couldn’t help but snicker a little as he picked up a small microphone that was attached by a spiral cord beside Rocket’s steering pedals. “RISE AND SHINE EVERYONE!” Percy yelled into the mic, which of course came out of the much larger megaphone on the ceiling, if everyone hadn’t been wearing seatbelts they’d have likely fallen from their seats as they scrambled awake suddenly. “PERCY!!” Aero yelled, who had bed hair despite having slept in a seat the whole night. She fumbled with her hairdo, trying to fix it while half-awake. “Do NOT do that!! You nearly gave me a heart attack, you happy?!” Percy turned back to the windscreen as Rocket had now officially landed, smirking as his plan came to fruition. “Relax airhead.” he chuckled cheekily, looking at her through the windscreen mirror, she looked rather hilarious in the state she was in! “And yes, I am happy. Look, we’re home!” With a push of a button, the doors opened at both sides of Rocket. Everyone started to undo their seatbelts and grabbed a suitcase as they began to make their way out. Star was up and out first, but not before giving Percy a quick slap on the head for the unexpected and rather rude awakening it had received. Julius, Oswald and Mickey all clambered out together, each of them hauling heavy, oversized luggage in their hands and began to race for the door. “Hey wait for me!” Julius called out, lagging behind his two younger brothers a bit, trying not to trip on his robe on the way over to the house. “Me first, me first! Haha!” Mickey giggled as he skipped ahead of Oswald just in time, reaching the door. They couldn’t enter of course as it was locked, but Mickey still looked pleased he had gotten there first, even as he received a quick flick on the nose from a slightly agitated Oswald. “Haha, hold on there, you three!” Aqua laughed, stopping behind the boys with her hand held up, she had the keys to the house jingling between her fingers. The boys all stood aside to let her unlock, with Mickey giving a playful bow to her in a gentlemanly manner. “After you, my lady!” he grinned, giving her a wink. Aqua laughed again, reaching over to ruffle his fuzzy head between his ears. “Hahaha! That should be me bowing before you, your majesty!” She returned the bow, this time allowing the boys access inside, only for Golden to quickly squeeze in between all three and stepped over the threshold before anyone else. The young girl even gave her own bow, holding out her skirt a little and bending her knee slightly. “After me? Why thank you dear brothers!” she giggled, watching as Julius and Mickey looked a tad confused, while Aqua quickly tried to fan down Oswald as his ears were about to shoot off of his head like rockets as steam shot out of them. “You little cheater!” he growled at his little sister, who merely smirked as Starlight peered over her shoulder. “Hehe it’s not my fault you’re so slow!” Golden smiled playfully, “Besides, you know ladies go first!” She laughed as she began to make a run for it, and Starlight flew up out of the way and into Mickey’s hands as Oswald began to chase Golden up the stairs, not at all pleased at her cheekiness toward him, as if he hadn’t just lost a race to his baby brother. “Grrr I’ll show YOU!! Get back here you little twerp!” Aqua giggled softly behind her hand, clearly enjoying how much Golden was liking playing with her brothers. Ventus ran inside, followed by Terra, who was kindly carrying in the rest of everyone’s luggage on his shoulders. Ven reached into the cupboards, taking out bowls and plates and a few cups and mugs to help prepare breakfast. Scout entered inside, followed by Aero and Star, Mum, the broomies, Yen Sid, and finally Percy, who simply took his luggage and began to make his way up to the observatory. Yen Sid was about to ask him if he wanted anything to eat, but the light man had already disappeared out of sight, which once again left Yen Sid feeling a little concerned about his strange and different behaviour. “Is Percy okay?” Starlight asked innocently as she curled up in Mickey’s arm, the young mouse was holding her carefully like she was a fragile doll, rocking her close to his chest. “Percy is usually so cheerful, and so attentive but…he wasn’t at dinner last night, did you see?” Mickey shook his head softly, he sadly had no answer. He sat down on one of the nearby kitchen chairs, gazing down at the little glowworm in his arms, the sight of her so tiny and looking much like a baby was enough to make him smile. “Don’t worry, whatever is going with Percy, we’ll be sure to figure it out!” he said kindly, he mused fondly about the light man, the one who would always put a cheery spin on any situation, even in the most hectic of times. Though knowing Percy, he was also known to put incredibly chaotic spins on them too, everyone, including Yen Sid himself, wondered where he got so much of that energy. “He might just need some time to rest after our undersea adventure, not to mention he had a bit of a scare at the beach…but we’ll be there for him! Like he’s always there for all of us.” Yen Sid watched as Mickey and Starlight held a small conversation, a warm, fatherly smile on his face. Using a bit of his levitation magic, he picked up his own luggage as well as Scout’s and the Wayfinders and sent them upstairs, providing a bit more room in the kitchen so everyone could get settled in and have some breakfast, his stomach rumbling was more than a reminder that it had been a long night flight and they needed to get prepped for a new day, especially one this early. Yen Sid knew that he had a priority today, one that he was going to get settled more than anything, at all costs. He approached the chair Mickey was sitting on, placing a hand on the back as he looked down at the two of them. “Mickey’s right little one.” Yen Sid said softly, smiling as both Mickey and Starlight peered up at him with a look of wonder and admiration in their little eyes. “I’m most certain that before long, Percy will be right as rain. That I can assure you.” Mickey nodded in agreement, if Yen Sid was certain, he knew full well he was telling the truth, he and Starlight felt more at ease, and a little more playful as Mickey gently booped the tiny nose on the little glowworm’s face, making her sneeze which sounded much like a tiny kitten. “Aww, you’re just like a baby, Starlight!” he chuckled, leaning back as he rocked her further, a bit faster but still gently as he held her. “Hey, do glowworms drink milk? I could warm some up for you in a bottle, haha!” Starlight blushed and a sassy smirk formed on her face, she crossed her arms as Mickey told her of his playful yet innocent idea, even Yen Sid was grinning behind his hand over it. “Hey, I’m not THAT much of a baby!” Starlight protested, trying her best not to make eye contact. “I’m just…small enough to be held like one! But…hmm if you’re asking…I’d prefer juice, ooh and make it pineapple! Golden says that kind of juice is very sweet!” Everyone laughed, making Starlight blush a much deeper shade of red, her arms crossing once more. Mickey noticed her small pout and giggled, giving her a warm cuddle much like he would with one of his Duffy and Friends plushies. “Haha, aww Starlight! I guess I’m just feeling sentimental.” he spoke, his voice containing a gentle and nostalgic softness, a sense of reminiscence. “It’s just that, now that I think about it, we haven't had a baby in the family for some time. Heh, not since my little nephews were born.” Scout snickered, taking a seat at the table beside him as she started to spread some butter onto her toast. “Can you imagine having to deal with all of Oswald’s little kids?” she said. “I’m honestly surprised he can handle so many of them! I’d be like ‘woah time out!’ almost every second with that many!” Ventus reached out his hands as he passed a mug of warm tea to her, it was in her own personalised mug that had her name written on it, along with several musical notes, which Scout gladly took. “Thanks kid!” Sonatina giggled, recalling all of the bunny children at the Christmas party, clambering over their dad trying to get to the presents, scarfing down their dinner like bottomless pits, she was already starting to feel her maternal instincts rise over the idea of babies. “Babies aren’t that much trouble, dear.” she said sweetly, sitting down beside her daughter. “You were the sweetest and most happy little baby ever! I always called you my little bubble-butt, remember?” Scout’s face was as red as the jam on her toast at her mother’s utterly casual tone at using that nickname. “MUUUUUUM!!” She whined loudly. Terra and Aqua almost spat out their drinks, surpassing their laughter with great effort. Aero paused at eating her pancakes to grin as everyone laughed, giving Star a chance to sneak a whole pancake to itself. “Think nothing of it, Scout.” Yen Sid chortled in his warm, good natured voice. “It’s just what we do when it comes to our children, and uh, ahem…unless you count Golden when she arrived, it’s true that we haven’t had a baby in the house since Morty and Ferdie, how time flies…even over thirty years ago.” He ended his sentence on a much quieter note as he thought deeply, his eyes scanning the stairs that would take one up to the observatory where Percy now resided. His thoughts were interrupted by a sudden shriek, by none other than Golden herself. “WHO FILLED MY ROOM WITH ART?!”

The little girl entered her room, finding papers scattered over the floor, depicting different drawings of all sorts of things. The style was either crayon or oil pastel, but despite the simplicity, there was an ethereal beauty to the pieces. She picked one of them up, depicting the moon, and then another, a drawing of a young wizard. Curious, she went through them all, it was almost like a flipbook, depicting the boy turning his eyes up to the moon, and giving it a wave. She was VERY curious as to who had drawn these, and then heard a pair of giggles coming from above. She glitched up, finding herself on the roof, where two girls were sitting, their backs to her. She snuck closer, watching as one of them began to draw, blonde and wearing a white dress, whilst the other watched, with jet black hair and equally as dark clothes, almost as if they were opposites. She peeked at the blonde girl’s drawing, depicting three boys under the moon now, all holding hands, and she proudly showed it to the other girl, who clapped. As she did, she dropped a shell out of her pocket, Golden diving to get it before it fell off the roof, and subsequently being noticed. Both looked at her in surprise. “Um…hi! I’m Golden, Golden Symphonus and eek!” She slipped down the tiles of the roof, both girls rushing to grab her and stop her from falling. They were pretty strong, pulling the smaller girl up effortlessly, and she turned to them, thanking them for their help, but also wondering why  the heck they were on the roof. “I assume you came to find me?” the blonde girl smiled, waving her drawing pad. Golden nodded uncertainly, the girls giving a giggle, though unlike the sirens, it was a warm, friendly sound. “I’m Naminé, and this is Xion. We were just paying a visit, but we got here a little early, and were bored!” she smiled, Golden staring down at the flipbook in her hands. “Did you make this? It’s so pretty.” she smiled, Namine going a little pink at the compliment. “Yes, I did! I’m glad you like it.” she replied, before the three of them heard something interesting coming from a nearby window. It wasn’t unlike the house to have music flowing out of it, especially due to the nature of their sorcery, but Golden recognized the sound as a kalimba, realising Julius was playing. He didn’t usually dust it off and play, but he was still good as ever, and she found herself humming the melody. “Why don’t you two come inside now we’re back?” she asked gently, the two girls nodding. They were about to go toward a makeshift ladder, but instead, Golden held out her hands for them to take, and glitched them down to the front door. “Guys! I made new friends, look!” she grinned, Oswald taking a swig of his coffee and giving her a side-eye. “What, you befriended the dustpan or the board eraser, short stuff?” he smirked, Golden going as red as her usual robes, which contrasted brilliantly against the blue she was dressed in now. “No! Look, we have even more visitors!” she insisted, opening the door and revealing Xion and Naminé. The two girls waved, Yen Sid smiling at the familiar faces. “Papa, Naminé filled my room with really pretty art, look!” she grinned, showing him the flipbook. Yen Sid took it and watched the sequence, staring at Naminé in surprise, but she was known for being a memory enthusiast, and Xion too, ironically. Golden, realising they knew each other, looked embarrassed, but shrugged it off. “Well, Naminé, you may have come at a good time. Would you three girls be alright to go off to the art room and spend a little time together? I’m discussing something important with Scout and the others.” he kindly smiled down at his little daughter, who looked a little annoyed that she wasn’t included, but followed his orders, taking her new friends to the art room, and all three of them immediately beginning a painting, and a very interesting conversation about who they were.

Yen Sid put his cup of tea down and stood up, facing the group, but especially Scout. He smiled slightly as he overheard the girls chatting as they painted, hearing a sudden burst of laughter and a slightly frustrated yell from Golden- she wasn’t the best at painting!- and then his features became serious again, brows furrowing and grip tightening on his cup. “So…dad, you said something about Naminé coming at a good time? What do you mean?” Scout asked, swinging her legs as she took a drink, the broomies all plopping down on the sofa to listen. “Well, she’s a memory enthusiast, she has powers over memory and is very skilled with them. They’re strongest when she’s with someone she knows well, but theoretically she could look into anyone’s past, and find answers we wouldn’t know about or remember. I actually considered consulting her once for Golden, but we know how that went.” he gave a slight smirk, the group remembering how overprotective he’d become and snickering. Starlight leaned into Mickey, becoming a little sleepy from the rocking motions, and he smiled down at her, before looking up at his dad. “Why do you think that will help Percy, dad?” he asked, Yen Sid looking down at the flipbook, running his thumb over the figure depicted. “Memories hold a lot of answers, and Scout told me that Percy was fixating on some particular questions, about his powers and origins. I hypothesise that his memories could hold the key, and that’s why I’m particularly glad to see Naminé.” He explained, the entire group seeming deep in thought. “Plus, I can’t help but wonder if he was affected by what Forte said back then. Remember that pipehead?” Scout piped up, everyone nodding and remembering just how quiet Percy had gone. Aero put a hand to her chin in thought. “I remember he seemed upset…but he spurred on afterwards. I sure hope he didn’t start overthinking it.” she shrugged, everyone agreeing and hoping their big brother would be alright, especially with his absence. “Well, I believe we can at least do a deeper examination. The memory spells weren’t fully clear, and were prone to misinterpretation, like how we all misread Golden’s glitching. But I believe with our visitors, we can look into what happened with Percy, and better understand him.” he spoke, Scout nodding, but looking a little uncertain. “Do you think he’d let us? We never did it before, and he doesn’t tell us much about life before being your apprentice!” she sighed, Yen Sid shrugging slightly, once more looking down at the papers in his hands. “I think…” he began softly, looking rather nostalgic himself, “I think he may find them painful. But to get to the bottom of things, there really is no better idea. As you said, he doesn’t talk much about his life before he lived with me- I know one or two things from friends and fellow members of the council, after all, we have a procedure that allows us to take on apprentices and adopt them, but he really never discussed it too much.” he sighed, remembering how the little boy never seemed to want to discuss it, unless it was asking questions to which the old sorcerer had no answers. “How young was he when he arrived? Like Golden’s age?” Mickey piped up, Yen Sid nodding. “Yes, perhaps a few months older than her. They are very similar, aren’t they? I knew Percy’s caretaker at the time, we still write quite frequently actually, but I believe he’s a little closed-off with her nowadays. He still writes, I’m just not sure how frequently…I suppose it comes with being an adult. But I had no idea who his parents were, I assumed they were around but…it seems he was orphaned. He never seemed…too worried about it, he merely asked questions sometimes, but I wonder if there’s a possibility that it’s causing him to be closed-off, especially after what that villain said to him.” he mused, everyone once more silenced as they thought. Yen Sid put his cup down, moving it to the sink and watching it get washed for a moment, before looking down at the flipbook one final time, the only sound being the fluttering of pages as he flipped through it. He sighed, once more tracing his thumb over the image. “Nevertheless…we must make sure he knows how much he’s loved here. If he weren’t here, things would surely be very different, and he’d be sorely missed.” he finished, everyone enthusiastically nodding. Their light man was everything to them, and that would never change.

In the art room, the girls were doing a beautiful mural of the ocean. Golden had gotten a little frustrated earlier when she’d spilt some glitter, but Naminé had shown her how to move it so it looked like the shiny crests of waves, which had made her feel much better. Xion was busy drawing some shells, and stuck some onto the canvas, making it have a nice 3D element, and Naminé was painting the sky, Golden pointing out that she should add a rainbow. They eventually all got into a steady rhythm, Golden starting to draw various creatures, and began to chat. “So, you seem nice…where did you come from?” Golden asked, both girls sharing a glance and wondering if the little girl would even understand the explanation they were about to give her. “It’s a very long story, and a little sad at times, but essentially, I was once made up of memories. For a long time, I didn’t have a form, but I grew one over time. After a lot of unfortunate events, I had to disappear for a while. Nobody remembered me for some time, but thanks to one of my closest friends, I was able to be reminded of who I was and the love I had for others. And now I’m here, and okay.” Xion explained, Golden feeling her head spin slightly. “So…you were forgotten, but then you became unforgotten?” she puzzled, Xion nodding. “Like I said, it’s a long story. But now I’m here. I was a useless puppet, but now I’m a wonderful friend, hehe.” she smiled, continuing to work on the shells and paint them. Golden gave a smile, but wondered what she could mean by that. Naminé then began her own story, bound to be equally long and confusing. “In my case, has Yen Sid ever explained what a Nobody is to you? Or a princess of heart?” she asked, Golden shaking her head. “Well, they’re beings with pure hearts. And a Nobody is formed when a heart is corrupted by darkness after leaving its original body. So essentially, the person I came from, Kairi, was a princess of heart. So when her heart was released, I was incomplete. But I got my memory powers after her heart went to rest in someone else’s, Sora’s.” she tried to explain, but it was clear the little girl already had many questions. “And then, a lot of things happened. I remained pretty unstable, my existence wasn’t like a regular Nobody, but I was given a body around the same time Xion returned. And now, I’m also okay.” she explained, Golden looking puzzled and raising an eyebrow, but trying to make sense of it all. Sora and Kairi were names she recognized from the Wayfinders and their stories, but she had one question of her own. “So…if a Nobody is made when a heart is released from someone’s body…” she mused, the two surprised she’d caught on so fast, but they had explained it rather simplistically for the small child. Golden found herself curious about why she’d never created a Nobody, since she removed her heart all the time. She wondered what hers might look like, and if Naminé looked like Kairi…she felt her head spinning again, and tried to focus on drawing a jellyfish, but was now finding herself left with more questions than answers. The two older girls, though, seemed to be having fun, and that made her happy. 

Percy was back in his bedroom, he’d already finished unpacking and had put everything away. He looked at the little seashell that Sonatina had picked up from the beach, it was a bright yellow colour and it glittered in the sun. He sighed, this had been the only souvenir he had taken back from Kookaburra Cove, although he did like it, he wasn’t sure if he really deserved it. He gently put it down on his desk, where the sun was just reaching it. With a snap of his fingers, he locked the door to his room and focused on the star charts laid out on his bed, which he had taken from the observatory, something he could at least try to focus on instead of the headache that were his current thoughts. “Goodness me, what a mess I am…” he whispered, rubbing at his forehead where he felt a heavy weight that he wished he could rid himself of already. “I haven’t even fixed my sideburns…Oh what does it matter? I’m sure I ruined their holiday…would they never forgive me? I just…I can’t face them right now…could I…ever?” He lifted his head up from his hands, slowly, he turned it towards the window, where the sun was now beating down on him. He felt drawn to the window just momentarily, but then stepped back, feeling the urge to smack himself. “No! No no no Percy!” He growled, shaking his head and lightly patting his cheeks, trying to remain focused as he stared at the star charts through his foggy glasses. “Hmph, that is NOT happening! But…what is my alternative? Maybe I…maybe I ought to return to my apartment? Maybe the office I had…but…urgh, I’d have to interact with customers, I don’t think I can even handle strangers right now, let alone my own family…Can I just…burn away now? Become nothing? What am I saying? Am I crazy? Surely but, why did they leave me there…? All alone?? I can’t even remember their faces. What were their plans even? I…I just…maybe it would be better if I never existed…but, no…everyone here would miss me, because they love me. Or…do they only love my humour? Hmph, figures…who could ever love…oh my goodness, why am I thinking this?! But Forte, he wasn’t exactly wrong, I-” His soft muttering came to an abrupt end as a loud knocking was sounded behind him, right on his door. He turned around quickly, making sure it was locked. He sighed in relief, fixing his hair and glasses as well as putting his hat back on to make himself look more presentable and less scruffy to whomever was wanting to see him. “W-who is it?” He asked hastily, fastening his collar as he began to smile, though even he could tell it was a forced one. “It’s Scout and I, Percy.” Came the voice of Yen Sid, he sounded calm yet undeniably serious. “We’d just like a word, may we come in, please?” Percy’s stomach dropped, this was the last thing he needed! He looked around, trying to find an excuse not to open the door, his eyes scanned the star charts and he gathered a few of them in his arms, attempting to sound like he was busy. “Um, may it wait for another time?” he said. “I’m reading my star charts you see, and my arms are a bit full, haha!” Outside the door, Scout gave a huff. “Yeah, not happenin’, Percy!” she cried back, tapping her foot much like how Mickey and Oswald would when they were in a mood. “Let us in, or we break the door down!” Yen Sid gently gripped her shoulder, giving her a look. “Scout…” he whispered. “I wish to talk to Percy as much as you, but please…refrain from any interior damage to this house.” Scout snickered softly, she almost couldn’t believe how serious he looked. “You know I’m joking, right dad?” she said, giving him a goofy eyeroll, Percy could hear them, feeling a tad irritated they hadn’t left him alone. “Please, I just…want to be left alone, by myself!” Scout could only answer back with one word. “Why?” she said softly. “I JUST DO OKAY?!!” Percy clapped his hands over his mouth, dropping his star charts with a clatter. He didn’t mean to shout, was his overwhelming thoughts getting the worst of him? He got onto his knees, scrambling to pick up what he had dropped. “I-I’m so sorry Scout! I didn’t mean to yell, honest! I’m just…very very busy, alright?” Yen Sid and Scout weren’t buying it, though they could understand he was feeling worrisome and upset, with a small nod, Yen Sid gave Scout the cue to try again, she spoke in an approachable, understanding tone to Percy. “We know Percy.” she said in a gentle voice.  “Even if you are, please…just open the door, okay? We just want to see you, that’s all.” Percy stood back up, holding tightly onto his star charts, he stared at them, recalling when he was first given to him, by Master Chiria…remembering how happy he was on that day and how grateful he was, and Master Chiria was so humble, he was more than happy to have made them all by hand and gifting them to such clever and gifted young sorcerer. He had a small spot of hope remembering the face of Chiria as he smiled. “If…if maybe…I just hope it’s not about how I ruined the holiday…I know I did.” Percy muttered quietly under his breath, just so that Scout and Yen Sid wouldn’t hear him. With slight reluctance, Percy went and unlocked the door, feeling uneasy about the upcoming questions he no doubt had coming. Yen Sid and Scout entered, instead of the irritation and anger that Percy had expected from them, they looked concerned, almost worried for him. “Percy…” Yen Sid smiled softly, taking him by the shoulder. “What troubles you, my boy?” Taking a deep breath, Percy let out a soft exhale, refusing to maintain eye contact with his master. “Nothing. I’m fine.” he swallowed, managing a half-smile, he looked ready to burst though, and Scout could tell. “You don’t look it.” she said bluntly. Percy scowled, not exactly liking the way she said that. What was this, an interrogation?! “Ahh, please…just leave me alone.” He sneered, shutting his eyes. “I’m busy. As you can clearly see, I’m studying star charts, it’s important to me and I cannot be disturbed.” His voice had no hint of his usual humour or wit, he sounded flat, and unusually calm, any chaotic cheek or sassiness he held was gone, hopefully only temporarily was what the old master was holding onto. “Percy, we only want to know if you’re okay.” Yen Sid told him. “You’re not yourself my boy…” Percy gritted his teeth, now directly looking at his master. “I told you I’m FINE!” he hissed, he glared at Yen Sid, but only received the older sorcerer’s signature stare right back at him, stopping him in his tracks and making him go quiet. “And I don’t believe you.” Yen Sid glowered. “I can see right through you, Percy. Don’t lie to me son.” Percy’s glare intensified, and he swiftly shrugged Yen Sid’s hands off of his shoulders, stepping back away from him. Scout stared, almost speechless at her older brother’s uncharacteristic behaviour, she was a little fearful of a potential fight breaking out between them. “Don’t call me son.” Percy sneered in anger. “I’m not yours, I’m not ANYONE’S!” He turned his back on the two, fixing his sight on another star chart, attempting to study it and hoping they would get the message. But Scout bravely stepped forward, snatching the chart straight out of his hands. “Now YOU listen up!” She cried, putting her hands on her hips and trying to look like grown up as she argued back, crumpling the star chart in her hand slightly. “Percy, BIG time out! We are your family, like it or not! And family is there for one another, yours included! And until you start giving pops and I some answers, we are NOT going anywhere!” Percy was so annoyed he was about to shout, but something inside him held him back from doing so. He balled his fists, letting them fall to his hips, he knew he’d get nowhere if responded. Unable to argue further, he shook his head and transformed into his light ball, departing with a stiff, blunt comment out of the window. “Get lost…”

Scout dropped the star chart, reaching her arms out in a futile attempt to catch the light, but Percy was gone. He’d run away, left them. “Percy!!” Scout shouted, watching as the sparkling dust left behind disappeared into the air, shimmering in the sun’s rays. Scout gritted her teeth, slamming a fist against the wall. “Darn it!! I can’t believe it. He just…left? Whatever is going on?” Yen Sid sighed, rubbing his face a little, feeling exasperated by the events that just occurred. He looked down at the crumpled up star chart, he picked it up, and uncrumpled it, carefully and neatly straightening it. He squeezed out the creases and gently laid it out onto the bed alongside the others. “Hmm, these were made by Master Chiria…” he said fondly, stroking at his beard in amusement, he could tell these charts were very well looked after, and that Percy had cared for them a whole since he was originally given them years ago. Looking back at the window, he put a hand on Scout’s shoulder to ease her, staring out into the garden, she looked up at him, feeling a little uncertain about what to do. “Dad…?” she murmured, “What do we do now?” He gestured for her to follow him, swiftly, they both exited the room. Scout took his hand, which he squeezed back in gentle reassurance. “Running away…” he said, his eyebrows furrowing slightly. “You know, that’s not the first time he’s done that.” Scout almost stopped moving, this was the first she had heard of this. “Wait, what? He did?” she stuttered, she hoped to hear a little more about this. “When?” Yen Sid looked at her, he looked rather calm about it all, but in cases like this, he surely had to be. “He did, but only once.” He told her. “I remember it quite distinctly. It was right before he graduated. There was a spell he hadn’t been able to master during his apprenticeship, he was very determined to muster it, but it proved difficult for the longest time. He eventually grew so frustrated he…ran off without even a word. But, I do have a feeling I know where he is Scout, just follow my lead, alright?” Scout sensed a wave of confidence in his voice, and nodded. They went downstairs into the kitchen, where Mum and Golden were, they were preheating the oven and getting out several bowls and plates, even the broomies were helping to mix some salads and were pouring everyone a fresh glass of water. “Hey Mum?” said Scout quickly. “Dad and I are just heading out for a quick walk! We’ll be back just in time for dinner!” Golden perked her head up, settling down a few napkins and taking Scout’s hand in excitement, she bounced a little as she gripped her sister’s fingers. “Can I come with you two?” she asked hopefully. “Pretty please?” Scout bit her lip slightly, and gently pushed off Golden’s hand, trying to let her down a little gently and calmly. “Well, um…Mum wants you to help with dinner.” she said to her, half grinning as she gestured Golden back over to the kitchen counter. “We won’t be long, and they’ll need all the help they can get from our favourite culinary chef! Right dad?” Yen Sid gave her a single nod, waiting patiently for her at the door. In his mind, he thought about what Percy might have going on, and was thinking of what he could say to him by the time he and Scout had caught up with him. He side-eyed his littlest for a moment, smirking when he saw she was pouting quite profusely. “Aww no fair!” Golden whined childishly, stomping her foot indignantly. It reminded Yen Sid of when she was much smaller and would throw little tantrums that weren’t unlike that of a child, Scout coaxed her in a calm manner, while she was eager to catch up with Percy, she needed to let Golden down for just this moment. She looked up at Sonatina, who noticed the serious expression on Yen Sid’s face, and in her daughter’s eyes, and understood there was a task to be completed for the both of them. “Golden, dear?” She said. “Why don’t you go get Naminé and Xion? We can all make dinner together, and you can show them a thing or two with your skills! It’ll be fun watching the three of you work together, and we’ll need extra hands for everyone here today.” The broomies all shuffled in agreement, pulling out from under the sink drawers an extra pair of aprons, which were black and white, befitting the young girls that were staying as guests. The brooms looked eager to have as many pairs of hands working beside them as Mum was. Snickering at their antics, Golden gave in, taking the aprons from her beloved Broomies and heading up to the guest rooms to give them to Naminé and Xion, and bring them down to down to help start cooking. “Alright alright, you’ve convinced me!” She laughed, trying not to trip over her own robes as she trundled up stairs, turning her head around to face Sonatina, smirking at her. “But we’re going on a walk TOMORROW, and I’m going, ya hear?!” Sonatina and Scout both shared a good humoured glance at one another, when a child wanted something, sometimes they simply had to give it to them. Waving off her mother and the broomies with a wink, Scout joined Yen Sid at his side as they left the house, and moved toward the forest. Scout stuck her hands in her hoodie’s pockets, watching to see if Yen Sid would say anything while they strolled into the shady, patchy forest where they’d usually go to find plants and herbs for potion brewing, or when he’d take her, Mickey, Julius, Oswald and a much younger Golden to watch a group of tiny, dancing mushrooms if it rained. “You’re being very calm and collected, Pops.” Scout said. “Percy was…really angry back there. To say he’s not…anyone’s…It was…weird, like Golden would say!” Yen Sid chuckled, he could hear Golden saying that right now if she were here. “Indeed, it is weird, to put it lightly.” He responded airily. “But when you’re an adult, you have to make sure you’re being rational, and calm in whatever situation you’re in. As you might remember?” Scout watched Yen Sid visibly cringe, his fists were clenched. Thinking back to that time he raised his voice at Golden when he was being too overprotective and coddling, he even unleashed the phoenix for a moment. He shuddered, he vowed never to raise his voice ever again, to her or any apprentice. Scout walked a little slower, her hands still deep in her pockets. She lifted her head, keeping a close watch on her father’s expressions as those thoughts ran through his mind. “So…where to?” She asked softly. Yen Sid also perked his head, his hands unclenching as he placed them behind his back. “There’s a spot out here in the forest, it has some significance to Percy.” He answered, his eyes lighting up a little as they moved into a wider spot in the area, which was lush and green, blooming with several colourful flowers. “When he was little, he and I would often take walks there. There was a bench where we’d sit, just talking or just watching the world go by. He always liked going there and staying for a while. I never quite knew why…but he was quite an imaginative child with plenty of energy and creativity.” He smiled, and so did Scout. She could only imagine how playful and starry eyed Percy must have been as a boy, and his love for everyone and everything had clearly never wavered. Whatever he was going through right now, should only be temporary, and that it can be helped, once he was ready to open up, and they both hoped that his troubles wouldn't plague him any further. They continued on through the open forest, remaining silent as they carried on in search of their light man.

Percy had made his way further into the forest, the trail of starry dust left behind by his light was starting to fade. His frustrations had quieted since he had left the house, he knew he would at least be alone here in a small patch of the forest. This was his peaceful place, he liked it here, yet despite how lush and beautiful it was, it carried a painful memory of the past that he knew about. There was a signpost, it was pointing to the north of the forest that led out to the old town, it was old and weather beaten, and some of the wood had worn away. A few feet away from the sign was a bench, which was a lot more cared for and well maintained. Turning back into a man, Percy approached the sign, but instead of staring at it, he stared at what was under it, long overgrown grass with several white daisies beneath. “It was here…” He purred grimly. “Right under this sign, where it was decided that I was no use to them…” He stepped back, moving to the bench and taking a seat on the bench and burying his face in his hands, he held back a growl in his throat as he tried his best to not look back at the sign. He looked up to the sound of birds as they sang high in the treetops, mother and father birds were feeding their chicks that were peeping happily upon seeing them return to the nests. His eyes squinted with sadness, before they slowly turned to the sign, and while it wasn’t there, all he could see was that small box. A box that sheltered him from the elements, until it would be time for him to perish. But he hadn’t, because he was here. He felt a pit in his stomach which told him he shouldn’t be here, he had been left alone, unwanted, abandoned. His face retreated back into the palms of his hands, he felt ready to scream into them, and he would have had he not been startled by a familiar voice. “Hello Percy.” His head shot up, standing ahead of him were Yen Sid and Scout, who gave a small wave at him from behind her mentor. But Percy simply refused to look at them, leaning left on the arm of the bench, his eyes fixed on the sign. “I thought I told you to leave me alone.” He breathed sharply. Scout had just about enough of being dismissed by him, especially with his current attitude toward them both. She stepped forward in front of Yen Sid, if she was close enough she would have jabbed him in the chest. “Not happening this time, Percy.” She argued, her hands balling and sitting back on her hips defiantly. “Listen, right now! You can’t just fly off the handle like that and then leave us with such a dismissive word. Come on, what’s going on?” He didn’t even flinch at her tone, and remained seated as he kept his eyes from making contact with hers. “It’s of no concern to you.” He answered scornfully, clearly not the answer Scout had hoped for, she pressed on. “Well, I think it is, and so does dad! Percy, you’re part of this family, and I care about you, more than you think! I wanna help, so please…tell us what’s wrong?” Slowly, Percy finally stood up from the bench, Scout stood back a little, trying to read his face as he shut his eyes…was he ready to open up? At last, Percy opened his eyes again, staring into Scout’s soft, auburn ones. “I’m fine.” He said bluntly and straight forward. “Please, don’t worry about me. If this is all to do with what happened on the beach then…well, I just got distracted! That’s what it is, hahaha! There was just so much beautiful sea life and exotic creatures in the ocean and I simply forgot to resurface for air! Haha, oh silly me! But that’s ol’ Percy for you, Scout. Besides that, I’m okay, really I AM fine!” That was enough for Yen Sid, he passed by Scout in an almost ghostly way, and quickly seized Percy’s hands, holding them up in his own as he gave him a hard stare, the light man didn’t move, almost registering that his master had taken hold of his hands. “Percy, you are NOT fine.” Yen Sid told him. “Look at your hands, you are shaking like a leaf.” It was true, his hands were shaking, had Percy known? Or was he choosing to ignore it? “I-it’s just Rocket lag!” he cried nervously. “That’s all! I mean I WAS driving Rocket under the ocean and back home during the night as you know! I’m tired, that-” Yen Sid dropped Percy’s hands, and this time grabbed a hold of his shoulders, not too roughly, but just enough to keep him from turning away from him again. “Percival Symphonus...” Both Yen Sid’s glare and tone of voice was much more serious now. “I’m going to tell you this…I’ve been on this planet for a very, VERY long time now. I can tell when you are lying to me, in fact whenever ANY of you tells a lie I know it! Whatever you’re thinking of Percy, it’s clear to both Scout and I that it’s making you upset, why hide that from us? Why hide how you’re really feeling?” Yen Sid’s grip on Percy’s shoulders loosened, and the younger sorcerer’s face grew even darker, he turned away, feeling the urge to transform into light again and bail. “I see.” He said. “So that’s how it is…I’m hiding my feelings from you? Being a burden is more like it.” Scout was surprised at this, him being a burden was the last thought on her mind, if she even had it. “Percy, that’s not it at all…we-” She saw Percy’s fists clench with enough force that his knuckles cracked, she stepped back, expecting a massive outburst from him, she worried Yen Sid would be in his line of fire, but the sorcerer didn’t move. “HAHAHA! Oh what a jolly good laugh old Percy is eh?!” boomed Percy, suddenly shouting and causing the birds in the trees to fly off, the wind in the trees picked up. “Whenever someone needs a giggle, Percy is there! Oh but the second he becomes a TEENSY WEENSY little bit odd, he’s burdening you and causing friction, well excuse me! I won’t trouble you lot anymore, I’ll just go and pack my bags and be out of your hair, shall I? Ehh??!” If Yen Sid wasn’t so concerned, he’d have shouted back, but his voice became softer and more delicate, hoping it would reach Percy at his core and bring him down to earth if he could. “Whatever are you talking about, my boy?” He asked silkily, Percy looked as red as the robes Golden and Mickey wore. “You want me gone, and for good! That’s what this is!” The light man continued to rant on, throwing his arms up in the air. “Fine, I’ll do just that, I’ll…go back to my old home! Back to where I was before, and you’ll be happier, happier with me gone like they were!!” He wanted to go on, but suddenly Percy couldn’t find his voice, his arms lowered, he’d said too much. “Who are…they?” Scout asked innocently. Percy was still, frozen and silent. His eyes went from Scout, to Yen Sid, and back again, their eyes were so patient, yet so worried. He finally turned back to the sign, which moved gently in the breeze, as did the grass and the daisies. Percy could see the box again, and hear a faint, distant cry. “I…I uh…T-they…” His shaking hands moved up to his chest, he could feel his heart racing. Tears built up fast in his eyes, and the dam finally broke apart as he lowered himself to the ground. “They…they didn’t…I don’t understand…WHY didn’t they want me?!” Percy shouted through his sobs, covering his face to futilely catch his tears, he had been holding this back since the last day at Kookaburra Cove, and couldn’t keep it in any longer. “Percy…” Yen Sid slowly got down on one knee, kneeling beside his young charge, he took him into his arms and carefully helped him stand back up. Percy melted into his mentor’s embrace, clinging to his robes as he sobbed. Yen Sid hadn’t seen Percy cry for years, and this time didn’t make it any less heartbreaking for him. “I don’t u-understand!” sniffled the younger sorcerer as he buried in the crook of his master’s neck, much like a small child would. “Why…d-didn’t they…didn’t want…W-what did I do…?” Yen Sid’s serious and hard expression softened to a more gentle and nurturing appearance as he held onto Percy, moving one hand to his head while the other patted him firmly yet lovingly on the back to soothe him. “Percy, you’ve done absolutely nothing wrong.” He told him, in the softest voice he could ever use, one reserved exclusively for his apprentices. “It’s alright, my boy. It’s alright…Papa Yen Sid is here.” Hearing Percy cry was hard enough, but Scout wasn’t at all sure what to say to him, she wanted to help but was having trouble finding the right words at this moment. She simply stared down at her shoes, lightly tugging on the sleeve of her arm. She lifted her sad eyes for a second to see Yen Sid carefully guiding Percy toward the bench, where they sat down, Percy still held onto Yen Sid as the older man pulled the younger close to him, until he was on his lap. Yen Sid continued to pat him on the back and couldn’t help but smile a little as days gone by drifted into his thoughts. “Let it all out, Percy. Everything is gonna be fine, I promise…” He lifted Percy’s head up a little by his chin, giving him a chance to look at him. “Hey…this is almost like old times, isn’t it?” He told him sweetly, Percy blinked back a little, he removed his glasses to wipe at his watery eyes, sniffling as he started to relax. “You and I would sit on this very bench together, watching the world go by with such carefree joy.” Yen Sid continued on, glancing around the forest to lighten the atmosphere, he noticed Percy do the same amidst his tears. “It’s funny where the time goes, isn’t it? But nostalgia is a wonderful thing.” Scout smirked warmly as she watched the two, seeing Yen Sid’s own way of cheering Percy up, he truly had the skills and instincts of a father, he was no different to her, or Golden or the three boys, to anyone. Shuffling her feet, Scout moved forward, up to the sign she saw Percy had been staring at, she looked at the worn away wood as it shivered in the wind, the blades of grass beneath waving gently around the bottom of the pole. “You said…they.” She said, “You mean, your birth parents, right?” Percy sniffled, and nodded his head, taking a deep breath as he was feeling much calmer, like a weight had been taken off of his shoulders. “Yes…I was…left here, right under that s-sign.” He answered as Yen Sid handed him a handkerchief to wipe his eyes. “It’s been thirty years, but…to this day I still don’t have an answer to why.” Yen Sid sighed softly, gently adjusting the brim of Percy’s hat, and looked upon his sorrowful, lost son with kind, but saddened eyes. “I don’t believe any of us have the answer, Percy…but there are ways to fix that, okay my son? Come, let us go home. And I promise, we will do all that we can to help you.” he smiled, Percy slowly standing up and holding out a hand, helping the older sorcerer to stand, so now they were all huddled together. Percy wiped his eyes again, and held out his other hand for Scout, who took it and gave a big grin, glad he was feeling better. He looked at both of them, and gave his own small smile. “Thank you…both of you.” he whispered, the two of them reaching out and pulling him into a long group hug, Scout leaning her head on his shoulder and smiling up at him. “No problem, what is our family here for?” she grinned, Percy chuckling and nodding, and the three set off home, still holding hands as they headed back to the workshop, intent on finding answers and brightening their light man up again.

Night fell over the house, Xion and Naminé having been set up in a guest room and now playing cards with the Wayfinders, whilst Sonatina was reading a story to Golden and the boys, the story of the man in the moon. Scout was in her room, practising with her sound sketcher and creating rhythms, which she then locked in her composition box. She thought of Tyke for a minute, wondering if she’d get to see him again, and decided that she wanted to compose something with him one day, since his tech combined music and magic in much more unique ways than just switch cues, composition spells and sound sketchers. She continued tampering, though, and then flopped down onto her bed, satisfied with the sound she’d made. In another room, the light man heard the sound flooding through, and found himself bopping his head to it, before sitting down on his bed, moving Chiria’s star charts aside. He remembered the day he’d got them from the master, another one of Yen Sid’s numerous siblings, and how Chiria knew he’d grow into something special. He thought back for a moment, remembering how kind the master had been, how patient, almost a mirror of Yen Sid- which would make sense as they were taught under the same tutor- and it almost made him curious as to how Yen Sid’s own first cohort had acted during their own time as apprentices. They were far older now, in their sixties or seventies, but he knew that Yen Sid still adored them all, and wondered if he’d eventually get to see them all again. Percy stood up, tidying his room a little and carefully rolling the charts up with his magic, and then headed over to his window, looking out and up at the stars, which flickered with light just like he would. He opened his window, letting his curtains blow in the breeze, and sighed. “Why light magic…? Of all the things, why something so rare and strange? I don’t believe I’ve met another light user in my entire life, at least not one like me…” he mused, unsure who he was talking to now but knowing it wasn’t himself, just voicing his thoughts to the air like airing out his laundry, it was somehow cathartic. “Especially with…with parents like mine, who’d abandon their little boy…” he sighed, his head lowering as he rested his arms on the windowsill, to the point he nearly had his head in his arms again. He wiped away a tear, sniffling, and continued to speak, getting it all off his chest. “And all these years, I’m…I’m just a useless light man. All I do is joke and laugh, make everyone smile, but…but why can’t I ever tell anyone my feelings without sounding like some useless burden?” He wept, now having his head completely in his hands, feeling sorry for himself but hoping someone out there was listening, even if only in secret. He couldn’t help his thoughts beginning to race again, so close to the window, it was so easy to just disappear into nothing, burn out like a comet, but…no, no such options existed for any sorcerer. Or anyone, for that matter, throwing away a life like that wasn’t worth it. He’d dealt with this with his own clients time and again, and had shown them the beauty of the world in the way he saw it…he sighed, thinking about the drop as he trembled slightly, but resisted giving in to those awful ideas, and instead took a deep breath. After the love and care shown to him today by Scout, Yen Sid…and yesterday when he’d made a stupid mistake…he thought back to how Golden had clung to him, and a thought came to his mind…without him, where would that sweet little apprentice be? He reflected…he’d helped Astra, Yen Sid, little Golden…so he had some sort of worth, and that brightened his heart up tremendously. He sat there for a few moments, and then eventually raised his eyes again to the stars, tears twinkling in the light like brightly lit droplets, and wiped his eyes with the same handkerchief Yen Sid had given him, it was decorated quite nicely, with little raindrops, roses and stars, and he folded it up, putting it in his pocket and moving away from the window, deciding to sleep with it open so he could feel the breeze, and stare out at the beautiful stars above. Moving behind his bedroom frame, he let his magic help him get ready for bed, brushing his teeth and getting an early night, throwing on his nightcap and almost ready to sleep, before realising he’d forgotten something. He turned back to the window and walked over, giving a tiny smile. “I really should make a wish before bed, now shouldn’t I?” he shrugged, kneeling down and putting his hands together, closing his eyes and reciting the rhyme. It wasn’t the usual rhyme, but rather one he’d learned long ago. He took a deep breath and spoke it, his lips trembling slightly but his heart warming, as if the stars were collecting around it and rejuvenating its light. “To the star, shining up in the light, I make a wish upon you tonight, as you promised that you'd always hear, so I'm hoping what I say is clear: I'm wishing with a heart that is pure and true, and I've still got all my love for you, so if you'll grant my wish, as time will tell, I'll know you still love me as well.” He finished the rhyme, and then looked up to the brightest star in the sky, twinkling beautifully and casting a glow across the heavens, clouds lighting up as it twinkled, almost as if it was flickering with a greeting. “I wish…that I can feel good about myself again, just as I do with others. I want to see myself in a good light, and know that I’m worth something, and feel all those doubts go away. So please…I don’t ask for much, just your guidance, and love… and maybe you can help me learn how to feel that same love for myself, someday.” he finished, sniffling but standing, looking up wistfully at the star one final time, before rolling into bed and pulling the blanket over himself. He settled down under his seven blankets, cosy and warm, and rested his tired head on his pillow, feeling himself drift into dreams as the warm glow of the stars and moon entered his room. And it wasn’t just that, someone DID enter his room, a little cricket with a top hat and tailcoat, drifting through the window with his umbrella. He peeked around the curtains at his charge, and moved over to him, until he was right by the man’s hand. He realised Percy had forgotten to take off his glasses yet again, and gently chuckled, slipping them off and putting them on the nightstand, the cricket then curling up in an empty candleholder alongside several thimbles. “That sure is a toughie, right m’lady? A wish to feel better about yourself? Only a certain amount of magic can solve that one…but a wish is a powerful thing, especially when it comes from the heart.” he smiled, taking off his top hat and kicking off his shoes as he got comfortable, the thimbles jingling slightly as he began to fall asleep beside them. Jiminy looked up at the brightest star in the sky, giving it a little wave. “I sure hope we can help him again, don’t you? After all, he still loves ya.” he smiled, yawning and turning to look at the sleeping man, eyes full of love and affection. “Goodnight Percival…sleep well now, son.”

The next morning, 7:17AM. In her small bed, Golden stirred and yawned, she was up much earlier than usual, and almost wide awake like a typical morning person. As she rubbed her eyes, a smell wafted into her room, alerting her further and getting her to swing her legs over the bed. “Oooh I smell bacon and eggs.” She grinned, hoping there would be pastries ready for her downstairs. “I wonder who’s cooking!” Grabbing her robes and her toothbrush, she quickly got herself ready for the day, and sprinted out of her room and toward the guest room. She opened the door, noticing all the scattered sheets of paper on the floor, she stepped slowly over them, not wanting them to make any crinkly noises or damage them as she made her way over to the beds, Namine and Xion were still sound asleep, having drawn pictures of so many things and people before they called it a night, and were clearly too tired to put everything away. She shook Namine gently by the shoulders, whispering softly to try and rouse her awake. “Namine…hey it’s morning!” She giggled. Namine’s eyes slowly opened, her long blonde hair had become all frizzy and dishevelled, making her look like the sun. She gave a low groan as she sat herself up, adjusting to the light of the early morning, noticing Golden standing by her bedside with a wide eyed smile, making her jump a little. “Oh! Golden, it’s you!” She yawned, pushing her hair out of her eyes to see better, Golden couldn’t help grinning at her bed hair. “Morning Namine! You need a brush for your hair! Hold on.” She turned toward the nightstand, which had a lamp on top of it that contained little seashells as a decorative piece, it spun and lit up when it was turned on. Golden reached a hand into the drawer and took out a little pink comb, she carefully began to run the comb through Namine’s messy locks, making them look smoother and a lot softer. Namine found the sensation to be pleasant when she had someone else do it for her, and smiled. “That feels nice!” She beamed, shifting closer to Golden as the little sorcerer in training sat on the edge of the bed. “Haha! Scout does this to me sometimes, it always makes me feel safe and relaxed.” Golden told her, “Hey, you know what would be fun? You, me and Xion brushing each other’s hair and styling it! I wonder how I’d look with Sora’s spiky look?” As they talked, Xion turned around and let out a snore, slowly coming to as she woke up. She appeared to be asleep still as she sat up in bed, the blankets falling down off of her, she and Namine had borrowed some of Golden’s pyjamas for the night, it surprised Golden a little to see just how much those pyjamas fit them both. “Uhhh…wait…is that muffins?” Xion suddenly jumped up, as she had just sniffed smelling salts instead. She got out of bed, slipping her feet into her slippers that matched her jammies, which were black and covered in pink hearts. “Hey girls, I’ll race ya!” Xion laughed, yanking open the door again and disappearing out of the room, it took Golden and Namine a second, but they soon got up and headed after her, the smell of freshly cooked eggs, bacon, pancakes, toast and tea were filling the hallway with it’s wondrous aroma. “Wait Xion!” cried Golden giddily, taking Namine’s hand in hers as they descended the stairs. “I haven’t combed your hair yet! And you’re not even dressed, silly!” They entered the kitchen, their sight was first set on who was there, it was Yen Sid. He was playfully commanding the broomies as they sorted out everyone’s breakfast, focusing on everyone’s favourites. They set down several plates, piling toast onto one and bacon, eggs, tomatoes, avocados, and beans onto another. Another poured all the glasses with drinks and another set out a tray of muffins and cakes. “Ahh, good morning you three.” Yen Sid greeted warmly to the girls. “Please, have a seat. I hope you all slept well.” Golden took a chair and sat down, one of the broomies set a plate of pastries and a glass of fresh ice water down for her, which she eagerly tucked into. “Mmm! Delicious, thank you broomy!” She said with a mouthful, before remembering her manners and finishing her bite before she spoke again. “Yeah dad, we sure did! I had no nightmares and slept like Sleeping Beauty! Hehehee! I really think the holiday helped a bunch, and I’ve got Percy and Oswald to thank for it, a-and you too!” Yen Sid chuckled, nodding silently with a smile toward his daughter. Namine took a few slices of fresh fruit and yoghurt, while Xion was piling fried egg and baked beans onto her toast. Yen Sid was handed a cup of warm tea by a broom, which was sweetened with sugar and honey to his liking, which he thanked it for. There was a sound of padded slippers at the staircase, everyone else started to appear, all still dressed in their pyjamas. Oswald, looking as grumpy as he ever did in the morning, reached for the pitcher of coffee, and drank directly from the spout instead of pouring it into a mug. Mickey sat down to start on a platter of cheese, apples and fluffy pancakes, Duffy was tucked under his arm. Julius came down with Mum, both of them getting hungry at the smell of porridge and sardines on toast. Scout was already dressed, looking for the nearest jug of juice. Aero entered last along with the Wayfinders, who all looked wide awake compared to her, and Star who was still fast asleep in Ventus’s hair. “Wow, what a feast!” Cried Julius, already taking a tin of sardines and spreading them onto plate, the strong smell was enough to make the others recoil a little, and Star woke up with a start, and quickly dived into Aero’s dressing gown to escape the pungent aroma. “Eww you like that stuff?” Ventus grimaced as he covered his nose, Julius simply nodded. “Yep! Try some! Here ya go!” Cutting a piece of toast with sardines on top, Julius carefully moved it onto Ventus’s dish for him to try. Upon putting the slice in his mouth, Ventus took a second to savour the taste. Everyone expected him to spit it out, but he didn’t, he gave a nod of approval and swallowed. “Mm, not bad!” He smiled, Golden almost threw up her pastry. Eventually everyone was seated, all except for one, Oswald looked across the table, searching for the one who was missing, musing out loud curiously at the absence. “Hmmm, where is Percy?” He asked. “Isn’t he up?” Golden’s head turned at his question, she was surprised he wasn’t there, as normally he was one of the first few up. “He’s not here?” She asked quietly in puzzlement. “Maybe he’s still asleep?” Mickey piped up, dabbing his mouth on one of the napkins. “Should one of us go check?” Yen Sid looked back to the stairs, he realised he had some plans in mind to tell Percy today, they were positive plans and he had a strong feeling that once they once they began, Percy would be on the path to heal, and he would no longer be plagued by dark, distressing thoughts. “I agree with you there, Mickey.” Yen Sid replied coolly, taking a sip of his tea. “Why don’t you go and see him? I think it’ll do him some good to have something to eat. He hadn’t eaten anything yesterday until dinner.” Golden smiled, pushing her empty plate back over to the broomies for them to clean. She stood, dashing toward the stairs as she gave a little salute toward Yen Sid, making sure she didn’t trip on the first step. “Aye aye papa!” She called out. “Golden is on the case! Haha!” The youngest apprentice giggled as she skipped up the stairs, feeling full of childlike energy after her fill. Once she was up in the hallway towards the bedrooms, everyone looked back at each and began to chatter among themselves again, in particular, what had happened yesterday evening. “Hey, you guys don’t think Percy was…acting up a little bit yesterday?” began Oswald, swirling around the empty coffee pitcher in his hand. Mum went into thought, she knew there was a reason for Yen Sid and Scout to have headed out before dinner, and when they returned with Percy in tow, her suspicions were proven correct. “I did. Did any of you notice at dinner? Percy didn’t say a word, and his eyes…they looked rather red and puffy, didn’t they?” Mum sounded rather worried, but very empathetic in her voice, she had occasionally looked at Percy while he ate at the table, wondering whatever had happened before then. All she knew was that Yen Sid and Scout would tell her in good time when they had to. “I noticed that too, Mum.” said Mickey as he squeezed Duffy a little, making Scout glance his way as she drank a glass of apple juice. “Gosh, I sure hope Percy is alright. I’d hate to see him feel so down.” The young musician felt it in her to tell them, but with a reassuring smile from Yen Sid as she turned to him, she sighed contently, offering the rest of the juice to her brothers as she settled back in her chair. “Don’t worry guys.” She said, “I have a feeling it’ll all go well! It’s Percy, he doesn’t always open up right away, but if there is a problem, we’ll all pitch in to help him! He’s always there for us after all, isn’t he?” Seeing Scout’s enthusiasm, everyone’s minds eased, and upstairs came the cheerful laughter from Golden as she entered the light man’s room, her bubbliness was sure to bring him back out of his shell. “Aww, you’re right Scout, haha!” Mickey laughed. “After all, we’re all one big family! Besides, Percy is such a good man, he really knows the ins and outs of all of us!” Another sound rang through the air, that by none other than Starlight who flew through the open window, diving into Aqua’s lap as she hoped there was some breakfast leftover. “Waaaaaait!!” she yelled, scrambling for any pancake crumb or piece of cereal. “Please tell me there's still something to eat, I’ve been out flying ALL night and I’m starving! Hmph, you all could have waited, you know!” Upstairs, Golden opened the door to Percy’s room, where a soft, morning breeze hit her from the open window, which reminded her that Scout and Yen Sid still owed her a walk later. She saw Percy was all bundled up in his bed, still asleep. Her head tilted curiously at how he was still in bed and not up and about being his energetic self, but nonetheless, it was up to her to wake him. Approaching the bedside table, she could see that Percy was so wrapped up in his blankets, he looked like a cocoon, only the top of his head and his toes were sticking out at each end. “Rise and shine, Percy!” Golden sang, giving him a firm pat on the arm, quickly rousing Percy from his deep slumber. The light man saw a blurry blob with a blue and violet head in front of him as he blinked his bleary eyes. “Hmm, wha…?” He murmured tiredly, stiffly sitting up on his elbows. “Oh…is that you, Lumen?” The young girl gave a swift nod, smiling brightly as she took hold of Percy’s hand. “Uh-huh! It’s morning!” She giggled. “Come on, get up! Or you’ll miss breakfast! Aren’t you hungry, light man?” Percy paused, staring briefly at his moon shaped clock, 8:12…he was usually up before then, he shot up in bed, only to slow back down a second after. He rubbed at his temples as an achy feeling overwhelmed him suddenly. He wasn’t exactly hungry, but he didn’t lack an appetite, he figured he might as well have something while he was waking up. “Alright, sweetheart.” He told her gently. “Can you tell the master I’m on my way? I’ll just get my hat and robe on, okay?” Giving Percy another salute, she busily made her way to the door, already calling out to Yen Sid in her not so indoor voice. Percy picked up his hat and robes, as well as his toothbrush and face flannel with his magic, and noticed something in the corner of his eye, a little blue top hat was perched on the end of the candleholder like it was a little hat rack. It looked so familiar, but it wasn’t there before, was it? He shook his head, trying to rid himself of the rest of his sleep he still had. He thought maybe he was just seeing things, and tried to start off by focusing properly. His chest ached a little, knowing he was going to have to have some things explained to him that he might not be ready for, but he couldn’t go on without any answers, not anymore. He was dressed and ready in about ten minutes, now feeling his hunger start to set in, he smelt something sweet down in the kitchen as he walked down the stairs, secretly hoping it just might be ice cream cake, he had been missing his beloved dessert and wished to taste it again. He heard everyone laughing jovially in the kitchen, where Aqua was handing out warm drinks to everyone, aside from Golden. And then there was Namine, who had her arms stacked full with drawings, she was giving one to each person in the room, she had just given one to Mum as Percy finally made his entrance. “Xion and I had been up ALL night drawing!” Namine laughed, shyly putting her hand behind her back as she passed a drawing to Mum, whose face was bursting with joy and pride as she looked over the contents of the picture. “Oh Namine dear…is…is this me?” Mum asked, evoking a smile and a giggle from the young artist. “Yep! I drew a picture of each of you, and you’re free to keep them! That’s if you want to, of course.” Mum hugged the drawing to her chest, she already planned on putting it in her house, in a photo frame next to the one of her and Scout. Terra gave the girl a pat on the head, looking at his drawing with great pride and honour. “This is fantastic, Namine.” He beamed. “I’ve never had my portrait done before. I’ve said it before, but you’re one amazingly talented artist, kid.” Aqua knelt down to Namine’s shorter level, enveloping the young girl into a tight and loving hug. “I love it!” grinned the Keyblade master, unable to literally pry her eyes away from all the detail Namine had provided to it. “Seriously, I do! Thank you, Namine!” Percy meekly stepped over the threshold as everyone praised Namine and her artistic gift, and found himself smiling softly at such a scene. Golden and Xion noticed him behind their drawings, and pulled him in further with delight, the latter tapping Namine on the shoulder for her attention, she had all but one drawing left. “Percy! Oh here.” She held out the last drawing from under arm, which Percy delicately took, as if he was a little worried he’d damage it. It was a portrait of him, done in bright crayons, and kept inside the lines. Percy’s eyes widened, she had captured his likeness almost perfectly, and he found himself feeling…so incredibly grateful and elated. “T-thank you, dear Namine…” He uttered, sheepishly pushing his glasses up the bridge of his nose. Namine rubbed the back of her neck, in a fashion much like Sora as she giggled, and Xion took her by the shoulders in a friendly and jubilant side-hug. “I couldn’t leave you out, Percy.” Namine said. “We wouldn’t have saved Golden if you weren’t here. Hehe, you’re the greatest, you know?” It took only a second, but he managed a smile at Namine, the most genuine he had smiled in the last few days. In his mind, he thought back to the night before, and found the strength to believe that maybe it wasn’t a stretch to wish upon the stars. He always believed that wishes came true, otherwise little Star wouldn’t be here, but something inside him told him that maybe his wasn’t meant to be, maybe, just maybe, that something was wrong. “Percy?” Realising he spaced out a moment, the light man turned to his right, Aqua was staring at him with a look of curiosity, checking to see if he was alright. In her hand was a large mug, it contained an extra sweetened hot chocolate with tiny marshmallows in the shape of the wayfinders she had made. “Oh, did I startle you?” She asked. “I’m sorry! I just wondered if you would…like a drink? Or anything else?” Seeing the drink in front of him, it was the kind that would relax and keep him settled for the day, not to mention something sweet like hot chocolate over tea or coffee was a better choice at the moment. Percy folded the drawing like a little origami crane and gently tucked it into his robe pocket, keeping it safe. “Aqua? I’ll have a hot chocolate, please? Thank you.” He held his hands out, where Aqua passed him a mug from the table, it was his personal mug, the marshmallows in his were star shaped. He took a sip, and instantly felt its calming effects. He took it with to the living room where he could sit down, the mug felt warm in his hands as he twirled it around slowly, watching the marshmallows melt away, only two remained, where they soon intertwined and became one single form. “Good morning Percy.” Yen Sid greeted softly, standing by in the doorway, he had his own mug of hot chocolate at hand, to those closest to Yen Sid, they knew that hot chocolate was his absolute favourite beverage, especially with cinnamon. “How are you feeling? Hopefully better than yesterday?” Percy nodded softly, he sighed deeply as the events of yesterday played in his head. He took one last sip of his drink before he placed it down on the coffee table, and allowed his master to take a seat beside him. “I…suppose so. Maybe just a little.” Percy took a long inhale, his expression fell into a crestfallen look of regret as he tried to speak, his voice shaking a little as he breathed out.. “I…I want to…say sorry. I’m really sorry I snapped at you, and Scout too. It was very unbecoming of me, and…” Yen Sid held up his hand, grinning as he patted his son on the shoulder, not even looking the slightest bit phased. “Now Percy, think nothing of it.” He said kindly. “It’s nothing I haven’t dealt with before, I’ve seen Golden’s temper and it’s far worse! Haha! Oh, to deal with a child with that kind of attitude…haha! At least we know what’s going on now, and we’ll get everything sorted out.” His comment lightened the feeling in Percy’s chest, he was glad to hear this, but not completely as his head lowered down a little. “I hope so, dad…It’s just…I’m a little scared. I don’t want to be, but I can’t help it.” Yen Sid expected this, he could see the uncertainty in the young man’s eyes as he looked away from him. “I know, it’s a completely normal reaction, son.” He said. “But you’re not alone in this, you’ve got Scout, Golden, and everyone else to help guide you, and I’ll be right there beside you. I never stopped at anything to help little Golden, and I won’t with you, that’s a promise I’m going to keep.” Percy gave a relaxed, yet melancholic smile. He felt his eyes burn a little with tears as they began to flow, he was tempted to reach for his mug again, but his need to be close to his mentor was greater as he leaned sideways and rested his head on Yen Sid’s shoulder. “Come here…” whispered Yen Sid, wrapping one arm around his son and patting it, using his free hand to hold onto Percy’s and squeezed it protectively. Yen Sid smiled paternally, this reminded him of when Percy was very little, and how he’d come up to Yen Sid for cuddles and protection whenever he was sad or scared, or just when we wanted to, he was always quite the cuddle bug. “Love you as one does…I, I will protect you, at all costs…” The older sorcerer crooned his lullaby softly into his son’s ear, the one he’d always sing to them, it was his song for them, ever since he adopted his little one right here. “Keep you safe here, in my arms. I, I will protect you, at all costs…at all costs…” The corners of Percy’s lips stretched into a small smile, he leaned closer into the embrace, feeling the safest he had been for such a long time. “Dad…?” he whispered in a small voice. “I think…I’ve been having a bit of a tough time as of late. I didn’t really want to mention it, but ever since that blasted organ brought everything up and…all those things he said, I’ve been…well, to put it like this, my mind hasn’t been very kind to me about it.” His voice sounded broken, like he would start crying again. He felt Yen Sid’s hand squeezing his back again, easing him enough for him to swallow the growing lump in his throat. “I know I did psychology but in a way it…it frightens me to look deeper into myself and my past. All I want is to just…return to how things were before, you know? Before the madness from those dastardly villains started making our lives miserable. But I think that may take some time before that happens.” Yen Sid nodded his head, understanding his plight. He helped Percy sit back up a little, keeping his arm around him in a tight side hug. “Rest assured, son.” He said soothingly, giving Percy’s cheek a little affection rub. “I know it’s all a bit frightening and unusual, but remember this, you are not broken, or in need of “fixing”, you just need a little help. We can and will find aid for you, and in the end, you’ll come out feeling a lot better, and more like how you used to be before, alright?” Percy nods, perking up a little as he listened to his dad, believing him to help him feel better about his own mental health. “I…take it you have an idea…?” he questioned, with a wink, Yen Sid gave a single, encouraging nod. “Yes, well…as you know very well, this won’t substitute any sort of professional help. But…We were wondering if perhaps you’d like to delve into your memories?” Percy’s face fell a little, and he looked downcast at the idea. “My…memories?” he muttered worriedly. “If it makes you feel any better, I’ve enlisted Scout to stick by you. And when we do go searching for professionals, we’re also going to bring Golden along. I understand you both have gone through very similar things…different yes, but similar emotions, so we were hoping you two could possibly help each other.” He thought this would cheer up Percy, but he appeared uncharacteristically quiet, but listening intently. His eyes looked tired and had dark circles, but he looked a lot more determined. “I’ll…I’ll do whatever I have to.” he asserted. “Whatever it takes. I don’t want to be stuck in the past forever.” Yen Sid was glad to see him look more ready to face his challenges, but his gentle expression hardened only slightly while keeping his reassuring warmth, patting Percy on the shoulder. “Don’t think of it that way, my boy.” he affirmed. “Think of it more like…you’re revisiting your past. A bit like a holiday you could say, and now we’re getting you a friend like Rocket to bring you back home, hehehe..what do you say?” Percy was surprised Yen Sid was so good with all this stuff, but he guessed he shouldn’t be, given how long he’d been around. He smirked slightly, smiling with confidence at his master’s words.”Okay master…let’s do this then. I’m ready.” Yen Sid chuckled, he enjoyed seeing that spark light up again in Percy’s gentle blue eyes. “Hehe, good boy. We have someone here that I think will be able to make things easier when it comes to accessing memories…I’m sure you know who that is?”

Later that day, Yen Sid gathered everyone in the workshop, explaining that Naminé would need the space to work her memory magic. She turned to them all, Golden looking particularly curious at how this memory magic was different to Yen Sid’s fog and sleep spell, or Percy’s photo album magic, but was nonetheless excited to watch the spectacle. Sonatina guided the apprentices to the sofa, all except Scout, and the Wayfinders and Xion sat at the dining table, the broomies all patting Percy’s back encouragingly before moving out the way to go and help Rocket get cleaned up after their grand adventure- he needed quite a wash after all the sandy shenanigans! They headed outside to where the grandiose vehicle was parked, and soon it became quiet, Naminé opening her drawing pad and silently pointing to Percy’s pocket, where he’d carefully placed the paper crane. She took it into her palms, and closed her eyes, sensing Percy’s heart, and the chain of memories that were held within. “Ready?” she smiled, the three of them hesitating for a moment as Percy fiddled with his sleeve nervously. “I’m…feeling a little odd…this strange feeling, like a swarm of butterflies has entered my stomach…” he admitted, Yen Sid patting his shoulder. “It’s quite normal, little one. Don’t worry, this won’t take long, and I am certain it’ll do us some good.” he smiled, Scout nodding encouragingly. “Yeah, we’re in this together! Time for a trip down memory lane again, hehe!” she cheered, spinning on her heels and Percy giving her a grateful smile, despite his worries. Golden, sitting in Sonatina’s lap, looked up at her. “What type of magic is this, mama?” she asked, Sonatina giving her a smile and stroking her hair. “It’s just like normal memory magic, but with less chance of mistakes or errors, right Xion?” she smiled, Xion nodding. “It’s quite cool, it’s like photo album magic but a hundred times better, since you can go as far back as you’d like, without limitations!” she cheered, Percy looking at the girls and taking a deep breath. Golden silently gave him a thumbs up, the light man returning the gesture, and then Naminé prepared the spell, a swarm of pages surrounding the group as the fog of memories encased them…and then they were gone. The apprentices all cheered after them, first Mickey, who yelled “good luck!” Then Starlight followed, and Oswald wished them well, hoping they’d get the answers they needed, and Julius quietly hoped they’d all return safely. Sonatina smiled at the group’s enthusiasm, and took another book off the shelves, deciding to tell them the tale of a group of magicians who could see the future, and ease their minds. And in the fog, a scene began to form, first the stones of a cobbled street, then the wooden beams of old houses, and shingles in bright colours, a marketplace full of people appearing suddenly behind them. Naminé looked around, it was all so vibrant and alive, the air electric with enthusiasm and joy…she’d started small, not wanting the spell to be too unstable, and the entire group stared in awe at the recreation of this place. “Woah, this is so cool! Is this the old town?” Scout grinned, watching several children running through the streets. Percy soon recognized them, Izin, Aphi, Mercurio…and then Astra, running behind them. He turned around, slightly smiling. “This is an old part, it’s definitely changed in the last decade or so, but I remember, there was that waterwheel, we’d always see who could stand under it the longest without getting soaked, ooh, Astra loved those accessory stands…” he mused aloud, before Scout noticed something, pointing and tapping Percy’s shoulder. “Hey, time out, is that you?!” she cried, seeing a little boy no older than seven, wearing bright yellow robes with blue clothes underneath, and a hat in the same shade, big glasses balanced on his nose as his blue eyes shone in the sunlight. He was looking at a pot of flowers, beautiful daisies arranged perfectly, with their centres a little pink and intriguing the little boy, who really wanted to take one. He reached out his hand, before the shop owner stopped him, and looked down at him with a raised eyebrow, long black hair cascading over his shoulders. “Hold on there little fella, if you want that, you gotta pay for it.” he explained, Percy’s face falling and scrunching up in a mixture of annoyance and despair. “But I don’t have any money!” he wailed, the shopkeeper chuckling slightly and giving him a smile, before someone else walked over, dressed in a blue robe and with auburn hair, kind eyes looking down at his apprentice. Yen Sid smiled at the shopkeeper, gently taking Percy’s hand, and gave a slightly apologetic grin. “Ahh that’s alright good sir, I think he’s just a little curious.” he smiled, the shopkeeper giving a wink and indicating no harm done, gently arranging some of the other flowers in his shop. Percy tugged at his master’s sleeve, looking up at him persistently. “Yen Sid, I wanted to give you this flower!” he beamed, Yen Sid hiding a smile and nodding, reaching down to ruffle the little boy’s hair. “That’s very sweet of you my little one, but it belongs to the shop. Come, let's get the others and go into the forest- there will be many flowers to pick there.” he smiled, the shopkeeper waving them off, before being approached by a customer he recognized, one in a veil and holding an empty plant pot, ready to buy yet another plant for his garden. Scout watched as Yen Sid gathered the other children, doing a headcount- they were all dressed in a variety of colours, and all looked to be from different families and backgrounds, but were all siblings nonetheless, just like the current five. She smiled, turning to Percy, who watched as they walked into the forest, and Naminé strolled alongside them, encouraging the group to follow, though they could not be seen or heard, evidently. “Awww Percy, you were so cute! And Yen Sid…he seems so…” she trailed off, trying to choose her words correctly as he jokingly frowned down at her, “um…youthful?” she tried, a grin crossing her face as they snickered. Percy nodded, a small smile on his own face. “Yes, you might not think so, but the master’s shorter beard and darker hair wasn’t the only thing that made him look so young… I remember, he was so taken with us younger apprentices, whereas you lot make him feel like a million years old, I’m sure!” he giggled, Yen Sid raising an eyebrow. “I am not appreciating the insinuation that I am a wrinkled old coot, Percy.” he chuckled, both Scout and Percy bursting into giggles and even Naminé chuckling, despite her focus on the spell. They walked until they reached the spot in the forest, one that the trio recognized from the previous day, and watched as some of the other apprentices ran toward the lake, skipping stones and Yen Sid warning them to be wary of the current. Percy sat on the bench next to his master, snuggling up alongside him and Yen Sid putting an arm around him- he’d always loved his hugs! The sounds of nature filled the air, birds chirping and crickets jumping from stalk to stalk, whilst reeds whistled in the wind and trees rustled alongside them, a symphony of sound. Yen Sid turned to Percy, giving him a soft smile. “I can see why you like it here, Percy. It’s so serene, and nice for us all to have some fresh air after our lessons, don’t you think so?” he smiled, Percy nodding, kicking his feet as they dangled down from the bench, too short to touch the ground. His eyes wandered around, before noticing the sign and pointing at it. “Yen Sid, Yen Sid! That’s where I come from!” he smiled, Yen Sid raising an eyebrow. “You’re wooden?” he chuckled, Percy giggling and shaking his head. “Well, you do have the brown hair…but whatever do you mean?” he smiled, Percy looking up at him and then hopping down from the bench, running toward the sign and standing in front of it. “Ta-da! My house!” he smiled, Yen Sid still not understanding what he meant but assuming he was playing. “Tell me, Percy, have you ever built a den out of wood?” he smiled, taking the young apprentice’s hand and showing him several logs lying on the ground. “We can make you a proper house against a tree, and it’ll be like a little burrow, all for you.” he smiled, Percy nodding and forgetting all about what he’d said, encouraging the others to help him build his own little casita, and then hopping inside, the five of them all squishing to get in and Yen Sid chuckling as they tried to decide who was the mum, dad and babies in their game. Yen Sid smirked, and brought his robes up to his face, appearing very angry, and then snuck round the other side of the tree, jumping out at them and frightening them, Mercurio jumping so hard that he rolled down the hill and into the lake, now looking like a wet kitten and pouting. Aphi was quick to pull him out, but they all collapsed into laughter the second they got on land again, and then started trying to find pond skaters and woodlice amongst the foliage, Percy watching the entire exchange with a fond smile, gently entwining his hand with Yen Sid’s, who gave him a squeeze. “Back when I was very young, my caretaker before Yen Sid showed me this place, explaining she’d found me there when I was a baby. Since then…well, I’ve loved it, it’s calm and peaceful, but also holds a great deal of memories.” he smiled, Naminé nodding and then turning to him. “My spell has grown stronger, I can take us to virtually any point in your memories. Where would you like to go next?” she smiled, Percy sighing and watching as the paper crane in her hands flapped its wings, before turning to Yen Sid. “I want to go…all the way back. To when my caretaker found me.” he spoke, Naminé nodding and holding out her hand, the forest dissolving into sheets of paper, creating a vortex that engulfed them. The same area was now much younger, certain trees shorter and flowers mere shoots, reeds disappearing and rock formations changing…seven years prior, on a windy night, cloudy and storming. A little box sat by the old wooden sign, which blew in the wind, the flaps rustling as lightning and thunder lit up the sky. A woman, blonde hair and dressed in a blue cloak, approached the sign, clearly travelling home amid the storm, but the sudden sound of a cry from inside the box startled her, the woman bending down. The Blue Fairy picked up the box, reaching inside and finding…a tiny baby, wrapped in a red blanket and crying, having been left here all alone. Instantly, she picked him up properly, noting how cold he looked, face red and tears streaming from his eyes, which the kind fairy wiped with a handkerchief. She took off her cloak, and despite her bare shoulders, wrapped him up instead, holding the bundle tightly to her chest, looking down at the little baby and giving him a reassuring, kind smile, as her wings occasionally were illuminated by the lightning and her eyes sparkled with starlight. “Don’t worry little one, I’ll take good care of you, I promise.” She smiled, leaning down and kissing his forehead, the small baby giving a little giggle and his tears stopping, the Blue Fairy heading down the path toward the town to try and find shelter from the storm, and also help the small baby who she’d found herself caring for. Scout stared in surprise, Percy nodding to confirm. “My mama…she found me that night, and took care of me for quite a while.” he gave a soft smile, remembering how she always sparkled beautifully in the sunlight, but especially how the moon made her look so radiant, like she was the most incredible being in the world, and would protect him from anything. He then turned to Naminé, sighing. “Naminé, can…we go further back?” he asked, Yen Sid looking in surprise and slight worry, but not saying anything. Naminé gave an uncertain nod. “The memories here are…weaker. I believe they are almost forgotten, due to infantile amnesia, but I might be able to find something…” she puzzled, the paper crane flapping its wings again as a sudden cold gust began, the four of them being transported to several minutes prior. 

Two figures, both of them dressed in dark maroon cloaks. They were standing by the same sign, their cloaks blowing in the light wind that was picking up. The slightly shorter one, was placing down the small box, almost reluctantly. The taller figure had something in their arms, it was a bundle and moved a little, the bundle wore the same blanket with the red hue that they’d seen just moments ago. Percy stepped back, his hands shot toward his chest, clutching his robes tightly enough to leave fingerprints. He felt a pit in his stomach, and Naminé wondered if she should stop the spell, seeing the shocked expression on the man’s face. “I-I’m so sorry!” she cried, taking the paper crane and preparing to put a stop to everything. “If this upsets you, I don’t wanna-'' Stepping forward, Percy regained his composure, reaching his hand out to gently touch her shoulder, his hand felt relaxed somewhat, and his face turned from shocked and speechless, to a more curious and inquisitive one. “It’s…it’s okay Naminé, dear.” he said, a somewhat monotone sound in his voice. “Please keep the spell going, I…I need to see…” Naminé nodded, opening her hands to allow the paper crane to fly, it fluttered around Yen Sid and Scout, their eyes were fixed on the two figures ahead of them. The taller figure was slowly lowering the bundle into the box, their shoulders scrunched as sorrow overcame them, the two of them taking each other’s hands in support. “Is…is this right?” asked the shorter figure, the female, her face was shrouded by the hood along with the male’s. “He’s still so small…oh, I just can’t leave him!” Her voice sounded so sad, and so gentle. The hand squeezing her’s let go, reaching up to touch her face, his eyes couldn’t be seen, but the body language he expressed only told them one thing, how much he loved this woman and their child. “This’ll be our last mission.” he told her, sounding as gentle and soothing as a morning bird’s song. “Then we’ll come back for him, you and I. And he’ll be safe, no more risk of the dangers that are waiting… and when we come back for him, we’ll live a normal, happy life together…all three of us.” The couple shared a kiss, the wind began to pick up again, a chill running down their backs as their cloaks flapped about. They kneeled down, closing the box and waving their hands to the little giggling baby. “Goodbye…li…we’ll be back later…” The woman said, kissing her fingertips and then rubbing them down the soft, chubby cheeks of the little infant. And then they took off, running off into the forest, their hoods fell down, and Percy almost gasped, but at a closer look, their faces were fuzzy and dark, he couldn’t even see their eyes. “Ah, WAIT!!” shouted Scout, she almost ran after them, but the memory soon grew foggy, and that wasn’t caused by the mist in the memory. “Please, you can’t…leave him.” She couldn’t interfere, yet felt terrible that she couldn’t do anything. She stepped back to Percy, seeing how still he looked, she placed her hand on the small of his back, trying to give him just a little comfort at what he was witnessing. “Did you…hear that?” he uttered, his hands shaking slightly as they fell to his hips. “They…they said my name…right?” Yen Sid stiffened, feeling rather taken aback himself, this was something he’d been expecting, yet it still surprised him. “I didn’t hear them.” he said sadly yet gently. “The thunder clapped at just the wrong time. This memory is rather old, yet it captured everything…rather well. Hey, Percy…are you alright?” He wrapped an arm around the younger sorcerer, pulling him a little closer to him, feeling protective of him. With his master and Scout at his side, and also Naminé as she approached, Percy felt lighter, and took a long, deep breath as the memory finally began to move away. “I feel…alright.” Percy answered, his hands reaching for both Yen Sid’s and Scout’s, he seemed to smile somewhat. “I thought they...didn’t want me, that they abandoned me…but, you saw that too. They were going…to return…but why didn’t they?” The paper crane descended down toward Naminé, gently landing in her open hands. She felt the memories begin to shift, the storm disappeared, the skies looked clearer, and more sunny. Ahead of them, was a small cottage, it was a familiar sight. Not far from the forest or the town, it was surrounded by little flowers, and sparkles of fairy dust. “We might not know just yet Percy.” said Yen Sid, fixing the boy’s hat and collar as they became slightly skewed, in a rather fatherly and affectionate gesture. “But look here, this looks like a happier memory, doesn’t it? Let's go further into it, shall we?” 

Their conversation was interrupted by a loud yawn, a young boy waking up in his room. It was a beautiful room, holding a large bed with a patchwork quilt, a large clock mounted atop a bookshelf full of fairy tales, and two shelves framing a large window which looked out toward the east, where the sun was rising and shining through the glass. A toybox sat at the foot of the bed, alongside even more toys that were scattered around the room, and the little boy in the bed rubbed his eyes, dressed in a nightcap that was white and green, alongside a white shirt and orange collar, and some bright green trousers that matched the hat. He yawned, reaching onto his bedside to grab his glasses, and put his feet into some brown slippers, drawing the curtains and shielding his eyes. “Owww, mister sun, why are you so bright?!” he pouted, before tripping over one of his dolls, a little puppet with a yellow hat and bright blue bow. “Oops, sorry Pinocch!” he giggled, picking up the toy and putting it on the windowsill, before running downstairs in his pjs, the rest of them following. He ran into the kitchen, down two flights of stairs from his attic bedroom, and tugged on the Blue Fairy’s dress, who was waiting for him at the table. “Good morning, Percival.” she smiled, ruffling his hair as the little four-year-old held onto her, giving her a hug. “Morning Mama! Is Jiminy about?” he asked, the Blue Fairy nodding and pulling out a chair for him at the dining table, where she summoned breakfast with just a flick of her starry wand. Percy clapped his hands, grabbing some delicious pastries and his mouth becoming covered in chocolate, Scout and Naminé giggling behind their hands as the light man turned crimson. “Child, please stop eating like an animal…” he groaned, Yen Sid shaking his head in humour and patting Percy’s back, he knew exactly how it felt to have embarrassing childhood moments that still haunted him. The Blue Fairy took a cinnamon roll and split it in two, handing one half to the little boy and eating the other, the two loving the sweet start to the day and each other’s company. Jiminy then flew in with his umbrella from outside, waving and landing on the table, right on a saucer. “Mornin’ son!” he smiled up at Percy, who waved down at him and grinned. “Good morning Jiminy! Ohhh, I’m still sleepy…” he smiled, rubbing his eyes and the Blue Fairy affectionately giggling. “Did you stay up reading again, little one?” she asked, Percy looking rather guilty and fiddling with his glasses nervously. “I-I…Only a little! I just love the stories you’ve given me, far off places, magic spells, a prince in disguise!!” he giggled, the Blue Fairy giving a warm chuckle. “I’m so glad you love them, little one. Now eat up and go play, I have to go to an important meeting soon, so Jiminy will look after you. The council of wizards has called a meeting about you.” she smiled, Percy raising an eyebrow in curiosity. “The council of wha-huh?” he asked, the Blue Fairy smiling down at him. “The council of wizards, little one. It’s a special group I’m part of that is in charge of making sure all the wizards and sorcerers in the world are taken care of. They also take care of many little children and apprentices, like you, and it’s run by one of the oldest wizards in the world, Master Grey. They want to talk to me about your future, and where you’re going to go when you get a little older.” she explained, Percy frowning at that last part. “But I wanna stay with you, here! This is Percival’s sparkly house!” he insisted, the Blue Fairy sighing and gently stroking his locks, letting them fall from her fingertips as she brushed them gently. “Unfortunately, you can’t stay here forever, as I have a lot of students who come and go when I train them, and I don’t think you’d be able to stay whilst I do. The magic they use is unpredictable, and can be quite dangerous, which is why I teach them to control it. But I promise, I’ll make sure you are in good hands, and Jiminy will also update me every so often on how you’re doing.” she smiled, leaning down to kiss his head. “Mmm…okay, can I go and play now?” he smiled, the Blue Fairy nodding and gently pinching his cheek. “Don’t forget to comb your hair when you get washed and dressed!” she called after him, the boy clambering up the stairs as Jiminy tried to run up the banister, but slipped and fell. “Hold on youngun’! Don’t leave me behind now!” he cried, the Blue Fairy giggling and sending a trail of magic after the cricket to help him get up. She then pulled on that same cloak from before, and magically changed her outfit to something much more formal, white robes decorated with diamonds and a long veil over her face, her usual dress still underneath but feeling very snug in these warm fabrics. She tied a ribbon over her hat for a final flair, and then set off, Yen Sid watching her leave and smiling, she was a dear old friend to him, and he knew she’d done an excellent job of taking care of Percy. He felt nostalgic for a moment, and Namine smiled, subtly shifting the spell slightly so that they could see Yen Sid’s memory of this day, and understand the rest. “Mama was always there for me, she saved me that night…” Percy beamed, Scout nodding and leaning on Percy slightly. “Yeah, gosh I wish I could meet her…!” she grinned, Yen Sid listening and having a twinkle in his eye, Naminé still focusing on the spell but also unable to hide a little smile. “Perhaps you could, Scout.” he mused, the girl looking up at him in curiosity as he gave her a wink. Percy sighed, still dwelling on the hooded figures, he’d seen their hair, brown like his, in varying shades, but their faces were obscured. He remembered Naminé’s words, could the culprit really be so simple as infantile amnesia, that he may have been only days old at the time? He sighed, but felt Yen Sid put a hand on his shoulder, and smiled up at his dad. The memory changed as he did so, allowing them to see more and more clues, and days long past. They arrived at a temple-like building, that of the council, all of them recognized it from meetings or special excursions Yen Sid would take his apprentices on, and they watched the Blue Fairy enter, passing by a few children wearing the signature white robes, and some teachers too. These apprentices all greeted her respectfully, before running off to the library, whilst the teachers directed her up toward the meeting room. She entered through the doors, into a lively room buzzing with the most elite council members- Master Ambrose and Yen Sid were discussing botany, Elderflower and Pendragon were chatting about the most incredible creatures, Fildor and Monroe were trying out some of the treats on the table, and the Fairy Godmother was reading a book, waiting for the meeting to begin. Yen Sid broke off from Ambrose, who was trying a complicated spell on a shrub, and became interested in the food at the table- the grey stuff looked particularly delicious. He was just eyeing it up when a presence appeared behind him, Master Grey looming over his shoulder. “Hello, boy.” he spoke suddenly, startling Yen Sid. “M-Master! I didn’t realise you were here!” he chuckled, cringing slightly as he tried to stop himself from toppling the entire table in fright. Master Grey, dressed in the white robes with blue diamond patterns just like everyone else, gave a small, barely visible smile, and sat at the head of the table, the council taking their seats. “Looks like everyone is here.” the Blue Fairy smiled, before Fildor shook his head and pointed to an empty seat. “Not quite everyone, Merlin hasn’t returned from 30 years in the future!” he reminded her, Master Grey rolling his eyes slightly. Merlin was so eccentric, one could only wonder what chaos he’d bring with him this time. And his thoughts were immediately answered as a wave appeared from the wall, and from nowhere, atop a surfboard and wearing a floatie, was Merlin. He did an elaborate flip, his robes transforming and his silly objects disappearing. “Sorry I’m late, New Year’s party in Australia! Wahooo!!” he cheered, the entire council bursting into laughter, Ambrose almost falling onto Yen Sid’s lap as he giggled. Master Grey facepalmed, but Yen Sid swore he’d spotted a smirk. “Honestly, I don’t know how someone so outlandish as yourself ever became a wizard, Merlin!” he groaned, Merlin pretending to be angry and giving a very animated frown, sending everyone into laughter once more. “Now now, Master Grey! It’s just how he is, and now that he’s here, we can start the meeting!” Fairy Godmother spoke, the old sorcerer nodding and stroking his beard in thought. “About time. Now, the Blue Fairy requested that we call this meeting. Please begin, my dear.” he nodded, the Blue Fairy smiling and standing up, addressing them all. “Well, I know you are all aware of the child in my care, and Jiminy’s, hehe. I believe he’s old enough now to be taken in as an apprentice, and I wanted to discuss who would mentor him. Due to the nature of my own trainees and their…eccentric…magic, I wasn’t sure it would be safe for a little boy to stay in my care, and even Jiminy is sent out during those training sessions. So…I am requesting that one of you mentor him.” she finished, the council all looking at each other in curiosity. Master Grey stared at each of them in turn, some of them taught the young apprentices living in the walls of the council, others had full cohorts…but he’d heard a young man was seeking some new apprentices. He nodded, and turned to Yen Sid, who shyly folded his hands into his robe sleeves, auburn hair contrasting the stark white. “How would you feel, my boy?” Master Grey offered, the Fairy Godmother nodding enthusiastically at the idea, already vouching for Yen Sid. “He’d do so well under your care, Yen!” she smiled, clapping her hands, and the others murmured in agreement, Ambrose nodding enthusiastically and his plant blooming to life, sensing his joy as he showered it with sunshine from his magic. “Hmmm…I had my first cohort a while ago, consisting of Hiro, Xari, Ley, Chris and Dawn, as you all know. Since then I have been considering taking in more apprentices…are you sure I’d be able to handle a 5-year-old, though?” he mumbled, Master Grey giving him a reassuring nod of approval. “I have no doubt the Blue Fairy and Jiminy have shaped the young one into a remarkable little boy. Percival will have flourished under her care, he seemed such a sweet lad…” the old sorcerer trailed off, the Blue Fairy blushing slightly at the compliment, as it was rare to be told anything nice by the old man. “Whilst the little one’s origins were unclear to me, I know he’s grown up happy, certainly. And I have no doubt he’ll be a wonderful student, he’s curious and courageous, I know he’ll be amazing.” she smiled, Percy feeling himself go red hearing his Mama talk like this about him, Naminé giving a little smile and giggling at his embarrassment, but also how touched he was. The younger Yen Sid nodded, and started to think. “Is there anything I might need to know about him?” he asked, the Blue Fairy puzzling too, before remembering something that may have been of interest. “I’m not sure how much this may affect him, but I believe that being around me all the time has made him absorb some of my star magic, like how parents biologically pass down their magic. I believe, if I am correct on my intuition, that Percy may have combined the magic he gained from me with his own, whatever that may be, and will combine that again with the technique and musical magic you will teach him.” she explained, Yen Sid looking curious. “Hmm…well we’ll have to see how that comes out in training, but I now look forward to seeing what he can do. Star magic in itself is very difficult to master, as I’m sure you know, but if he has combined such power with his own…that is certainly rare. Thank you.” he smiled, and the Blue Fairy gave an equally bright smile. “Then it’s settled, three cheers for Yen Sid!” Ambrose called, Master Grey rolling his eyes but obediently clapping. A letter then flew through the window for him, decorated with a little pink lotus, and he took it aside, adjourned the meeting and the council dispersed, chatting amongst themselves. The Fairy Godmother congratulated him with a hug, earning a wolf-whistle from Ambrose, and the Blue Fairy excitedly told him all about Percy, to the point that Yen Sid felt as if he already knew the boy inside out, and as if he’d got a new son.

The memory shifted, Yen Sid smiling nostalgically and remembering the very first time he’d ever met Percy, but that was a story for another day. He looked at Naminé gratefully, who gave a bright smile, and then they found themselves at the workshop, Scout gawking slightly at how different it looked back then, not nearly as many trees or flowers around. She turned, seeing the Blue Fairy dressed in her cloak, and Percy in some blue clothes, wearing his own miniature cloak embroidered with stars, suns and moons. She held his hand, walking up to the door as the little boy took in the enormous castle. “Wooooooooooooooow!!! Mama, it’s bigger than you!” he giggled, the Blue Fairy nodding, but feeling her heart grow heavy at the thought of leaving this little boy. After 5 long years of caring for him, she didn’t quite know how to say goodbye, but decided to leave him with a gift. “Percival, can you come here for a moment?” she asked sweetly, the little boy nodding and grinning as she handed him a box, a present wrapped in shiny silver paper. He opened it up, discovering several thimbles that jingled and made the boy giggle, alongside a scroll with a rhyme Percy knew all too well. “What’s this, Mama?” he asked, the Blue Fairy unwrapping it and showing him the words, the little boy adjusting his spectacles and sounding them out. “It’s a rhyme, so whenever you look up at the stars, I’ll hear it and know that you’re talking to me, and so that you know I’ll always love you.” she smiled, kissing his head as tears began to well up in her eyes. Trying to hide her sorrow, she stood up to knock on the door, and Yen Sid answered, waving down at Percy, who waved up at him. The Blue Fairy smiled, and then bent down again, pulling the little boy into a hug. “Alright little one, I’ll leave you here now with Yen Sid…but if you ever need me, make a wish up to the stars, and always dare to dream…my little boy.” she whispered, Scout turning to Percy, who felt how her maternal love radiated off her, and wiped away some tears falling down his cheeks, he still missed her, even though he’d write and see her at council meetings…she was really his mama, but now he had a new hope for his biological parents too, and smiled, feeling family was who he chose it to be, and having enough room in his heart for everyone. Jiminy hopped up as they parted the hug, giving a playful tip of his hat to the Blue Fairy, and a wink. “Don’t worry m’lady, I’ll make sure he’s happy here!”

The memory shifted again, to a day when Yen Sid was teaching all the apprentices, and having a six or seven year old Percy demonstrate a spell. He was teaching them to unwrap scrolls, and they were all dressed in their signature colours, Percy focusing and his yellow robes flowing with the essence of his magic as he made the scroll float. Yen Sid gave a grin, he was progressing so fast, and put a hand on his back to steady him. “That’s it, that’s it! Stay focused, now!” he smiled, Percy putting in all his effort as the scroll unwrapped and unfolded, opening his eyes to see he had done the spell. He gave a cheer, the rest of the apprentices applauding, Izin trying the spell but the scroll catching on fire, to his dismay, and Yen Sid chuckling. In his delight, Percy dropped the scroll and ran into Yen Sid’s arms, feeling amazingly proud. “I did it master, I did!” he grinned, gleefully being swung about by Yen Sid as he lifted him up in celebration. “Yes you did, my clever boy!” he smiled, patting Percy on the head as he set him down. And when class was over, he took Percy to his office and sat him down on the enormous chair, bending down. “Percy, you’re quite a fast learner, you may even be a prodigy, you know? I know there were a few spells there that took me a year to succeed at!” he smiled, Percy furrowing his brows in confusion. “Wha? But you’re so good at everything!!” he insisted, Yen Sid giving a slight chuckle. “Well…that’s because I practised, and I know you’ll get there too, as long as you don’t give up.” he smiled, Scout glowing and remembering how Yen Sid had once said those exact words to her, glancing gratefully at the older sorcerer. Percy suddenly sat up, turning to the window behind the chair, and craning his neck to see beyond. “Papa! The rain has stopped, can I play outside, please?” he begged, Yen Sid chuckling and nodding. “Haha, alright…just remember to take your scarf, and don’t wander off, okay? If you want to go somewhere, please tell me first.” he smiled, Percy nodding and running over to the coat rack. He noticed Mercurio and Izin were reading, whilst Aphi was teaching Astra about some fashion she knew all about, and put on his wellies, coat and scarf, running outside and jumping into the puddles, kicking the water about and creating a shower of raindrops over his head, laughing as he did so. He wandered about the garden for a while, before deciding to go and find Jiminy, even though usually the cricket would find him. He searched the garden, finding ladybugs and butterflies, but no tophat-bearing crickets, and soon became distracted by several trees just beyond the garden, remembering he’d seen Mercurio climbing them, as well as some kids from the North Academy when they went to town. He almost went starry-eyed as he found a new idea of what to do, and ran over to a tall tree, starting to try and climb it. Percy cringed slightly at his younger self being reckless, Scout remembering she’d often done the same, and how Golden used to kick the trees in annoyance when she was too little to follow. In fact, when they wanted to hide from the little girl, they’d usually go somewhere high, and the poor short child could never find them! Percy huffed, though, snapping her out of her thoughts, and frowned disapprovingly at his younger self. “Child…that is VERY dangerous!” he groaned, the group watching as the small boy tried to clamber up, even trying to get a running start, but the bark was far too slippery, the young boy folding his arms and pouting at the tree, blowing a raspberry. “Ohhh naughty mister tree! Let me climb you!” he grumbled, before being startled by a voice. “Percy? Hey!! You’re not meant to be this far from the castle!” Jiminy called out, Percy becoming distracted by the cricket, letting out a quiet ‘huh?’ A crack suddenly sounded above him, a large branch falling and Jiminy crying out for the boy to run. In shock, Percy covered his head with his arms, and there was a sudden bright flash as he zoomed away from the falling branch. Percy opened his eyes to see…he had become a ball of light!! “Jumpin’ jeepers! Percy, is that you?!” Jiminy cried, Percy not even finding the words for a moment in his pure confusion as to what was going on. “Uhhhh…WHAT DO I DO?!” he yelled, and Jiminy immediately came up with a plan. “Quick! Inside, I’ll explain everything to Yen Sid!” he insisted, the ball of light following the cricket inside. “YEN SID!!! HEEEEELP!!!!!” He cried out, Yen Sid immediately running in, alongside Astra, who was perched on his shoulders, but neither saw Percy, just Jiminy and a ball of light…unless… Yen Sid gasped in amazement. “Percival, is that you?!” He grinned, awestruck at the sight of such incredible magic, the light ball nodding as best as he could. “YES! I became this big light ball! How do I go back to normal?!” he asked, Jiminy giving him a gentle pat as he floated in midair, Astra staring up in awe at their best friend in such an amazing form. “Calm down now, son. Let me tell Yen Sid what happened first.” Jiminy said smoothly, proceeding to tell Yen Sid everything as Astra playfully tried to poke Percy in midair, who evaded them. The master found himself deep in thought, quietly muttering to himself. “Star magic…combined with…hmmm…” he mused, before giving a knowing smile. “Alright Percy, stay calm. I think this is normal for you.” he spoke, Percy bobbing up and down in disagreement. “NORMAL?! I’m a ball of light!! I’m like a little sun!” he replied, Yen Sid shaking his head slightly. “No, what I mean is…I think this is your magic manifesting.” he smiled, Jiminy looking up in curiosity and wondering what the master could mean. “I think his magic allows him to do this…and judging by the realms I’ve seen…this looks to be light magic. It certainly is rare, and special, just like you, little lad.” he smiled, Percy feeling himself glow, quite literally, at the words. “But how do I become me again?” he asked, Yen Sid putting a hand on his chin in thought. “Well, just take a deep breath…and try to will yourself to become a little boy again. Focus on that idea, I want to be Percy again.” He coaxed, Percy focusing, and suddenly the room was engulfed in what looked like a light tornado, Percy dropping down in the centre, right on top of Astra, who was pretty stuck underneath him. “Uhhh…which way is the floor? And why is it all squishy?” he groaned, his head spinning and Astra trying to push themselves out from underneath him, but to no avail. “To answer your question, the floor is below me, who you are SITTING ON!” Astra yelled, Percy rolling off and the two apprentices sitting up, looking at each other as Yen Sid gently helped them up, making sure Percy was steady. “There we are. How do you feel?” the sorcerer asked, Percy rubbing his eyes and shaking his head to get rid of any stars floating above it. “A little weird…I feel kinda heavy…” he admitted, Astra rolling their eyes. “You ARE heavy!! You’re so big I thought you might flatten me!” they giggled, Percy shoving them. “Not as big as you, angry ginger!” he retorted, Astra whacking the back of his head. “I’M NOT AN ANGRY GINGER!!!” they seethed, Yen Sid chuckling and gently pushing the two youngsters apart. “More like a firecracker, Astra. But Percy, the reason you may feel so heavy is because you were so buoyant and weightless as a light. You know when we go swimming in the lake and you feel all floaty, but then afterward you come out and feel all heavy? I think it’s a similar principle, but don’t worry, we’ll work together on this, and you’ll be able to control it in no time.” he smiled, before watching fondly as the two kids ran off together, starting a pillow fight in the living room with the other apprentices. Percy smiled nostalgically again, and Scout touched his shoulder. “That must have been a bit scary, huh?” she grinned, Percy nodding. “It certainly was, I had absolutely no idea how far I could push such unique magic, though. Even now, my magic still amazes me, and I can’t help but wonder what the star magic was combined with…maybe next time we go to the council, I’ll look into it.” he smiled, Scout nodding and leaning her head on his shoulder, ready for the next memory to begin. They all travelled a little further, into a memory a couple of years from then, they appeared in Percy’s room in the workshop, it was much bigger than the one at the cottage but he still had all his toys, his patchwork bed, and his little Pinocchio puppet, all a little reminder of his home away from home. The room now also had a few photos on the wall of Percy, each one depicting him a year older with the other apprentices, he had managed to catch up to their height despite being only inches away from being as tall as them, only Astra seemed to equal his height. A clock stood above the bed, looking almost like a tower, and fairy lights decorated the walls, making it look cosy, pretty, and very homely. There were also shelves full of books and tomes given to him to learn magic with, all of them fairy aged yet loved with each use. In the middle of the bed stood the young Percy, he looked around nine or ten years old here, and was standing right on the end of the bed looking like a diver ready to make a leap. He braced himself, readying to make the jump. “Okay, Percy…you’ve got this. You’ve practised plenty!” he told himself, Jiminy sat on the windowsill, watching him with anticipation and pride as he watched the boy practice with such confidence. Bending his knees, Percy took a leap and bounced high off of the end, Yen Sid almost rushed forward to catch him out of paternal instinct, but stopped himself just in time to watch the young Percy transform at will in a ball of light, floating calmly and serenely above the floorboards. “I did it! Look Jiminy!” Percy cried, twinkling like a night star and bobbing up and down in his excitement. “I can do it all by myself now! It’s as easy as breathing, heehee!” Jiminy stood up, giving the little boy an enthusiastic round of applause, he looked as proud as if he was Percy’s father, which in a way he was to the lad and treated him as his own. “You’ve certainly got the hang of it now!” he cheered, Percy’s light ball wheezed around the room, bouncing lightly off the walls like a pinball and leaving trails of light and speckles of stars behind him. “I’m so happy, Jiminy! Now with Yen Sid’s teaching and Mama’s magic, I’ll be the brightest light sorcerer the world has ever seen! Wait till I tell Astra!!” Jiminy leaned on his umbrella, rubbing at his chin as he gathered his thoughts, Percy’s words seemed to have activated a curious idea in him. “Well, son, your power most definitely holds an element from her,” he explained. “But you know something? You’ve manifested this power all on your own, and I think it’s your own magic more than anyone else’s.” Percy slowed down to halt, nearing a little closer to Jiminy quizzically, but not too close so he was too bright for Jiminy’s eyes. “My…own magic? Can I do that?” Jiminy nodded, giving a wink to the lad as his eyes twinkled in the light. “Yes! Magic is like a spectrum, and it’s different for all sorcerers, but I remember hearing that when two sorcerers have a child, a bit of magic from both of them can pass down to their baby. I’m not too sure how it all works, perhaps I’ll ask her ladyship…hmm, and maybe you oughta ask Yen Sid yourself, eh lad?” Percy hadn’t thought on this before, nor did the idea ever even come to mind. He turned back into a boy, giving a little twirl before he landed, giving a bow like a circus performer. “That’s a funny thought, Jiminy!” he said with a giggle. “I’ll go tell him right away!” He leaned his head down so Jiminy could give him a quick ruffle to the head. “That’s my boy!” cheered the little cricket gentleman, opening up his umbrella and putting on his hat. “Well, it’ll be twilight soon and I best get goin’. I’ll see ya tomorrow, okay sonny? You be good now!” Jiminy waved Percy off as he jumped off the windowsill, floating down like a little feather before landing in the soft grass, hopping from one blade to the other as he headed off back home. “Goodbye Jiminy!” waved Percy, flapping his hand up and down like he would fly with it. “I’ll tell the others you said bye too!” The young boy raced down the steps of the castle, passing Aphi as she carried piles of books in her arms and almost knocking her over, while Izin watched from the upper floor with a grin as he watched Percy race down toward the study hall, looking for Yen Sid. The two of them ran after Percy, intending to catch him and team up against him like in a game of chase, usually Percy was a little too quick for them so they’d always lose despite being older than him. “Percyyyyy!” shouted Aphi, sprinting through the hall after the boy. “You almost made me trip! Get back here!” Mercurio and Astra popped their hands out of their bedrooms, seeing a chance for play taking place, and quickly went to join the others, Astra ran as fast as they could to catch up with Percy, not intending to let him get caught. “Don’t worry, Percy! I’ll back you up!” they declared, blowing a raspberry at the other kids and running backwards, provoking Izin and Aphi to pick up the pace in annoyance. Mercurio meanwhile couldn’t help himself as he laughed out loud after the others. “Are we racing?!” he shouted, almost stopping to catch his breath. Percy and Astra took a swift turn as they drifted into the right side room, the other three slipped by and slammed into the wall instead, creating a sort of apprentice pancake as they squished together. “OW! You did that on purpose, Izin!” Aphi wailed, trying to shove the two boys off of her, but Izin had pulled her on top of him as he tried to balance only to fall back on his bottom as Mercurio laid on the floor, laughing like a hyena. “No I didn’t!” Izin shouted over Mercurio’s laughter, pouting childishly. Percy and Astra entered the study office, Yen Sid was stood at the window, completely still. It seemed he hadn’t noticed the two children behind him, nor the ruckus outside the door. “Yen Sid! Hey Yen Sid!” called Percy, bouncing on his toes as excitement took over him. The master didn’t answer, like he hadn’t heard him. “Hey, Yen Sid! I wanna show you my light ball! I’ve perfected it, see? Lookie!” Still no response, Astra tilted their head in puzzlement, wondering why he was so quiet. “You don’t think he accidentally used a statue spell on himself, do you?” they asked, arching an eyebrow. Percy shrugged, taking Astra’s hand as they moved toward Yen Sid. Shushing Astra slyly, Percy quickly turned in a light ball and floated up into Yen Sid’s face, shining as bright as a beacon. “Peekaboo!!” Percy cried loudly, twinkling and sparkling right before his master’s eyes, making him stumble backwards into his chair and dropping something he had been holding. “Oh-AHH! Oh goodness me, Percy!” gasped Yen Sid, pushing up his hat as it had fallen over his eyes. “You startled me lad.” Giving a spin, Percy turned back into a little boy, not even so much as looking dizzy, and stood before Yen Sid with his arms outstretched. “Ta-da!! I did it all by myself!! What do you think?” Astra took Percy’s arm, holding it above his head as they made a soft breathy sound to mimic the sound of an applauding, cheering crowd. Yen Sid blinked softly, before he reached down to the floor to pick up what he had dropped, standing back up again. “Oh yes…very good, Percy. Very good…” He didn’t sound at all enthusiastic, and wasn’t even giving the two his attention. Percy felt cross, and put his hands on his hips in an angry stance. “Hey! You weren’t even looking!” he scowled, his big eyes behind his glasses making him lose effect. “What gives, old man?!” Yen Sid’s eyes lowered, looking back at his two apprentices, with even Astra looking annoyed at him now. He slowly folded the letter he was holding, placing it on the table. “I’m sorry, Percy.” Yen Sid said in a sad tone. “I was just…taken aback by this letter, it arrived just five minutes ago…” The two children were no longer annoyed, instead feeling a little concerned upon seeing the sadness in their master’s eyes. “A letter?” peeped Astra innocently, clinging to Percy’s sleeve. “How does a letter make you sad?” Yen Sid picked up the letter again and unfolded it, by now Aphi, Izin and Mercurio had entered the room, having heard Yen Sid mention something about a letter he had received. “It’s what’s written in it, Astra.” said Yen Sid. “It’s from Merlin at the council. It’s about Master Grey, he has been taken ill again…I’m going to have to make an emergency trip tomorrow morning, first thing.” The children all looked at each other, a little curious but worried all at once. Yen Sid didn’t want them to feel scared, and it was his business and not theirs, it wasn’t fair to worry them, so he put on a brighter expression as he continued on. “I’ll be meeting with Ambrose to see Master Grey, in the meantime, you all will stay with my good friend the Fairy Godmother. It’ll be like a little sleepover! And she’ll make sure you all will stay well behaved…” Percy reached his hand out to tug at Yen Sid’s sleeve, looking at him with a wide eyed look of wonder. “Hey…is Mister Grey your papa?” he asked. Yen Sid found himself getting very rosy cheeked and speechless, he cleared his throat, trying not to look all flustered as he found his words and composure. “Oh ah, hahaha! No no no…well, no and yes.” Yen Sid chortled, stroking at his beard as he tried to play it cool. “And um, it’s Master Grey actually, Percy. And while he’s not my…well, birth father per se, he’s the one who was always there as I was growing up. Me, Ambrose, Lufte and the other apprentices who were a little older than we were, and…and you, Vidor…” He seemed to trail off, leaving the kids looking even more confused. Izin stepped forward, stomping his foot a little. “Can’t you tell it simply?! Like you do when you read us storybooks?!” he moaned, Yen Sid gave a little smirk at the boy’s sassiness. “Well, let’s say that Master Grey is the sorcerer who made me and my siblings the people we are today, so he’s been our father since he took us all in. I never knew who exactly my birth parents were, but I was told that they were both very powerful wizards.” His answer made the young apprentices sigh in relief, wondering why he didn’t just say that. But Percy felt like the question he had in mind was almost starting to get its answer. “Ohhh, I see!” he smiled. “And um, who are my birth parents?” Yen Sid hadn’t realised he had let his mind and his mouth wander a bit. He didn’t mean to bring so much regarding parents and family members with his young cohort, hesitating a little, he knelt down to Percy’s level, deciding to start slowly yet honestly with his apprentice. “I…to tell you the truth, Percy, I don’t really know. I’m sorry to say this…I did see you a few times when you were just a baby, under the Blue Fairy’s care…but as for your parents…why do you want to know?” Percy grinned as he explained, wrapping his little fingers around Yen Sid’s big ones. “My magic! It’s from them!” he rejoiced. “I have light magic, and Jiminy told me that I might have gotten it from my parents! Who are they? I wanna see their light magic!” Yen Sid felt a little overwhelmed by the questions, he hadn’t prepared himself to answer these kinds of questions, especially by one so inquisitive like Percy. He also wasn’t sure how to break it to the young child, not wanting to confuse or even upset him. “Well…the thing is, Percy…” he sighed, putting his hands on the boy’s shoulders. “I really cannot say. I don’t know who they are or…what magical powers they both had. But I’ll tell you what, I’ll do some research into it, see if I can find some answers, and when I do, I’ll tell you. Does that sound alright?” Percy was quiet, and then sadly nodded as he lowered his eyes to the floor, this look made both Yen Sid from the memory, and the Yen Sid watching it play out feel extremely awful. “Ohhh…okay, Yen Sid.” sighed Percy, he felt his disappointment quite hard, hoping that his beloved mentor would have the answers, and turned away. Astra, who noticed their best friend’s upside down smile and proceeded to throw their arms around him, pulling him into the biggest hug they could muster. “Now come on! Don’t be sad!” they said spiritedly. “You don’t need parents, you’ve got me, and Yen Sid! We’ll be your parents!” Percy grinned, both at Astra’s comment and the strength that they had in their hug. “Heh, you always make me feel more warm and fuzzy, Astra!” Percy snickered, wriggling a little in the embrace as Astra ruffled his bushy hair. “Well I wanna be a doctor when I grow up!” Astra responded. “So that means making everyone feel better, including fixing those frowns!” Aphi, Izin and Mercurio skipped over, enveloping both Percy and Astra in a group hug, and making the former feel a little buried, he tried to shuffle out as he heard Mercurio talk. “We’re family!” he cried happily. “And family means…HAHA WE FINALLY CAUGHT YOU!” Astra and Percy let out a cry of defeat, the two falling to their knees as the older boy let out a pretend evil cackle, followed by Aphi and Izin. “Surrender now, you library wrecker!” Aphi laughed. “Prepare to meet your doooom!” Yen Sid stood back up, chuckling softly at the children’s antics, he hoped they would never grow up. Nonetheless, he needed them settled as the sun had now set completely. “Calm…” he said soothingly, lifting his hands and slowly lowering them. “It’s bedtime, so all of you upstairs now, I want you all in your pyjamas in ten minutes or no story.” The children’s faces fell, as if they saw the world end right before their eyes. “NO STORY?!” they wailed, despairing as they all hugged and fell to the floor. Izin even curled up and hugged his knees. Yen Sid sighed, hiding a smirk as he covered his face with his palm. “Okay, fine. HALF a story, now get going you little imps.” They all scurried off toward the stairs, with Percy and Astra taking each other’s hand, disappearing as the memory began to end. 

The paper crane fluttered down into Naminé’s hands, encasing the group into a light, colourful fog. Scout and Percy looked toward Yen Sid, who looked incredibly downcast. His face showed guilt, regret and remorse, he apologetically reached out his hand to Percy, touching his arm and gently pressing his fingertips onto it. “I’m so sorry…” he expressed sorrowfully. “You have to forgive me Percy, I…if I had said something much sooner, maybe I…” A hand touched his, Percy was looking at him, with the softest, most kindest eyes he had seen. Those of which belonged to a man with a pure heart. Percy removed Yen Sid’s hand from his bicep, and held it in his. “Please, don’t worry, dad.” He said. “I understand why you did what you did. I was very young that day, and you were only trying to protect me and not let me worry. Besides, it’s not like you had the answer to begin with…I wouldn’t have understood then, I saw everything with such wonder and joy, like there was nothing out there that could hurt me…well, except for perhaps a certain plant and that is for another day…but in the end, you just didn’t want me to worry.” Yen Sid’s face lifted, if only slightly at Percy’s praise. Being told he only did it out of love and to protect, which he had always strived to do was a comfort to him. He looked down at Percy’s hands as they held his, a similar gesture to how he consoled his son earlier. “Thank you Percy.” he smiled gracefully. “And to tell you the truth, I kept my word on finding out info on your parents, at least…at first.” Scout moved forward, unsure of what exactly Yen Sid had meant. Did he find out something of importance to the memories? “Dad? What is it?” she enquired eagerly. “You gotta tell us!” Yen Sid shook his head, letting out a sigh as he wasn’t able to give her the answer she hoped. “I can’t quite remember all the details, it’s all clouded in my mind. It was a long while ago, and on the day I believed to have discovered something, Master Grey had…just passed away that very same morning.” Percy and Scout exchanged glances, both feeling a little chill upon hearing that, Master Grey’s passing was always a difficult subject for Yen Sid to discuss, it’s no wonder he had given up on the research, or more reasonably forgotten about it for some time. They were only glad he had been looking, in the hopes he would have found out something in good time. “It’s a hard memory to look back on.”  Naminé input, watching the three sorcerers with sympathetic eyes. “Some memories are painful, and it’s in our instincts to push them away, but if we go back to them, we can learn to accept them. And the pain will hurt less and less the more we come to acknowledge and accept them as part of us.” Yen Sid looked her way, giving her a slight smile as he nodded to her. “You are very wise, Naminé.” he told her. “I choose to try and not forget, but to accept and move forward, even though at times it is particularly difficult. Especially with certain memories. Perhaps I ought to go back on that day, and maybe…just maybe, the research might still exist out there somewhere…” The paper crane fluttered into the air, a soft glow followed it as it began to take them to another memory, around five years later. The workshop was bustling, and there were banners, a table laid out with food, and Percy was hovering over it to get first dibs on the ice cream cake. “Come to papa…” he grinned, preparing to cut himself a slice until a tap on his shoulder made him almost leap onto the table in fright. “YIPE!! Ah oh…OH ASTRA!! Don’t sneak up on a man, I could have had a heart attack!” Astra merely scoffed and rolled their eyes, booping Percy on the nose with a mischievous little grin. “Honestly, you and ice cream cake!” Astra laughed, wagging their finger and strutting to the side of the table. “You never fail to amuse me, Percy. You are just SO MUCH FUN to be around!! I can’t believe it’s finally graduation day, we’ve been through so much together, and now we’re fully fledged sorcerers.” Percy nodded, ten years of learning sorcery, and now it’s all coming to a worthy completion. Leaning back on the table, Percy couldn’t help but wonder about the future, with the chance of fulfilling their dream jobs in the world of sorcery. “Astra? My dear friend, what do you plan on doing later after graduation?” Astra smirked, rubbing their hands together in glee as ideas flooded their brain. “I know what I’m gonna do! I’m gonna open my first ever clinic! Once I do, I’ll be able to put together all those potions and ointments I made a while ago, and I’ll be whipping up all sorts of magical cures! I’m sure my healing magic is up to speed now!” They then looked at Percy with a little cheeky smirk, poking him lightly in the chest. “Who knows…” they snickered. “Maybe I’ll let you be my very first test patient! What do ya saaaay?” Percy’s face went as red as a tomato, and Astra could have sworn they saw steam shoot out of his ears. “Ohohoho Astra please! Let’s not be silly!” he cried flusteredly, waving his hands in slight embarrassment. “But…I’ll go to you if I ever need a little medicine, who better than the best, eh?” Astra nodded, helping to fix Percy’s little graduation robes and tying the ribbon around the collar. They smiled as they made it look neater, but in their mind it was going to feel strange with the two of them going their separate ways. “And what about you?” they asked. “Are you still going down the path of psychology?” Percy gave two thumbs up in response to their question. “Indeed I am!” he grinned. “I’ve been thinking of moving out of the town, and opening up a little place where I know lots of people can benefit from magical psychology. I have a good feeling about my first ever job in Nocturne!” A voice from the stairway surprised them, turning their heads to see the familiar face of their master. He looked to be in high spirits, a feeling of warmth etched into his features. “Nocturne, Percy?” he asked gently as he stepped into the room to join them. “That’s quite far. Are you sure about moving there?” It was far, but Percy had been planning this for some time, and his mind was made up for the first thing he had in for post-graduation work. He patted Yen Sid on the arm softly, and looked up at his face with a glowing look of adoration. “I know it’s quite further out than one might have expected, but…” he paused for a moment, thinking of the correct words to use for this. “I’ll be over to your place the second you call me! I am a light man after all, and I can just zip over in a jiffy! I do wish you two were coming with me, but I’m sure Nocturne will be the perfect place for me, a large city with so many people…oh I won’t be able to hold it in when I tell you how many friends I’ll meet there!” Yen Sid thought about his proposal, and he couldn’t argue with Percy on the matter, especially as Percy seemed so intent on the idea, as much as he’d miss having his youngest apprentice so far around, he had faith in him that he’d do just fine, and Astra would too, who was also beaming up at Yen Sid with a smile that was incredibly grateful for all the knowledge and care he provided them for all their years of training. “You’ll both do terrifically, I am more than certain.” Yen Sid told them approvingly, wrapping each arm around his two graduates, it was going to be difficult now that they weren’t apprentices anymore and he’d have to get used to that again. “Come on now, your ceremony starts in an hour, you two best make sure you have everything ready. The others are in their rooms doing the same thing.” Both Percy and Astra glanced at each other, both of them smirking hard as an idea entered their minds at once. “Care for a race?” Percy suggested, already gearing up for a start. “Like old times? I’m gonna beat ya!” Astra snickered, and they both zoomed off up the stairway, their shows clattering hard enough to echo downstairs, their laughing booming loudly like they used to when they played racing as children. Yen Sid sighed happily, undeniably feeling sentimental about the whole day, and knowing full well he’d have to keep it together until later on. Naminé and the trio of sorcerers were moving forward once more, hardly taking a moment to register the previous memory, it took them away from the workshop, travelling further and further east…until finally, an unfamiliar kitchen, at least to Yen Sid and Scout. “Woah…cool place!” Scout cried, looking at all the eccentric trinkets and gadgets that Percy kept in his home. Definitely his style, except perhaps the wallpaper. “This is your home, right? Yen Sid we gotta come here one day!” Yen Sid chuckled at Scout’s enthusiasm, he was quickly taking a liking to this place himself. He glanced to the left, where a glass table and chairs were positioned. And there, sitting on one of them, was none other than the modern day Percy himself, he had his head hidden in his arms, looking very gloomy. “How long has it been?” he asked himself sadly, his glasses sliding off of his face. “It must be months now. I haven’t made a single friend…the master is miles from here, and even Jiminy…ohh…this place, it’s nice…and yet, it just doesn’t feel like home. It’s lonely and too quiet. I do wonder if…I even made the right choice choosing this path? I wish I had someone to tell me…” Watching the moment play out, Yen Sid felt his heart ache for his son, who right next to him was looking very sorry for himself at the table. The old sorcerer had no idea Percy felt like this, and yet he masked it and took upon everything onto his shoulders like there was nothing wrong, he felt he ought to have seen the signs faster. Percy leaned closer to his master, almost resting his head down on his shoulder. He smirked softly, being close enough to Yen Sid was more than enough for him to feel safe and all was right in the world. In the memory, Percy lifted his head up, propping himself up on his elbows as he thought out loud, dwelling on several things at once like he usually would. “Hmmm, there’s so many unanswered questions…like the things I’ve asked countless times, about my life and…my parents…even the master and mama didn’t tell me, they…couldn’t. Ohh, what’s the use of dwelling? I’ve got Yen Sid, and the Blue Fairy, and of course Jiminy! Astra…oh, would they have forgotten about me? I wouldn’t know unless I found out, I’ll write to them today! Haha, even if the whole world forgets, at least I’LL know who I am! I am Percy, and even if my family are quite far from here, I’ll never ever change what’s in my heart! Ahhh, okay…now I think there’s still some refurbishing to do around here…look sharp thimbles!!” Watching his younger self, Percy was stunned and taken aback by the encouraging words he had said. Had he forgotten all of that? But even so, with this reminder, his body and mind was beginning to feel much more at ease. “I wasn’t wrong.” he said, managing a little smile. “I think…perhaps…I should take my own advice. Professional help will surely help me get out of a lot of bad days, and give me a chance to look forward to a better tomorrow…” He turned to Yen Sid, Scout and Naminé. “From now, I won’t dwell on my past. I won’t dwell on my parents leaving me, as I now know that, by all means they had to have had good intentions, and I believe that…Someone like Forte might try to get inside my head, but…I know me, I AM me…I’m still me…” Scout beamed, moving to hug Percy tight in her arms, which at first surprised him, but he returned the gesture, feeling more than thankful she could be there for him. “I’m proud of you, light man!” she grinned, opening her eyes with a sly twinkle as she spoke. “You reeeeally seem to like this Astra, don’t ya?” Percy pouted playfully, pulling the brim of Scout’s cap over her eyes in good natured fashion, making her laugh and accidentally drop it. “Can it, you.” Percy smiled smugly. “And so what? You seem to be thinking about that Tyke fellow a lot, eh?” Scout frowned, turning a bright red as she shoved her cap back on. “HEY! It’s not like that, you know that! Tyke and I are just music buddies, end of!” Naminé giggled, and the paper crane flew up once more and for the final time. They were all going back to the present, and Yen Sid felt something in his chest as he looked Percy’s way, he was already starting to look a little better. “I too, am incredibly proud of you, Percy.” he beamed happily. “You’ve found out some things, and now you’re getting a better resolve. There are still ways to go, but it’s a start. And getting you and Golden therapy will be the next big thing…not to mention you’ve also reminded me about something important, my old research might not see the light of day yet, but if it does…then I’ve got important business to attend to.” 

As they arrived back in the workshop, some of the apprentices were startled by the flurry of pages. Golden was sitting in Yen Sid’s armchair, fast asleep and hugging a pillow, whilst Mickey and Julius had also fallen asleep on Mum’s lap. Oswald and Xion were engaged in a fierce card game of snap, and the Wayfinders were watching Starlight flitting around, making little patterns and drawings with her wand, as if it was a sparkler. The group smiled, Oswald turning enthusiastically. “Hey, you’re back! How was it?” he smiled, Yen Sid briefly looking at Percy and folding his arms into his robe, still looking a little nostalgic. “Well…I might go through some of my old research when I get a chance, as there’s something I might not have finished. But what’s most important is how Percy feels.” he replied, looking over at the younger sorcerer, who had his back turned for a moment, silent and not looking at anyone. Scout moved over toward him, reaching out to touch his shoulder, and Naminé held the paper crane in her hands, which unfolded as if it had never been creased, revealing the art of the light man surrounded by a flurry of rainbows, sparkles and, of course, light. “Um…hey, you alright?” Scout whispered, before Percy suddenly turned around with a smile, reaching his arms around her and wrapping her in a tight hug, to the point her feet were lifted from the ground as he grinned. “Woah, haha!! Okay, okay!!” she giggled, Percy beaming up at her, his blue eyes seeming to sparkle with a renewed light. “I feel…good, Scout! Thank you!” He cried, continuing to hold her tightly and squeezing her close to him, Scout turning to look at Yen Sid, who raised an eyebrow but smirked at her playfully, refusing to help. “Hehe, no worries. I’m glad you do, you do look quite a bit better!” she smiled, Percy finally putting her down and the girl brushing off her robe, as it had become crumpled. Percy gave a smile, Naminé walking over and handing him the drawing, when the light man was suddenly bombarded by the broomies, wanting to see if he was alright. He giggled, and addressed them. “I’m glad too, some things have really been resolved, in a way. I don’t feel like most of the things I’ve feeling have completely gone away, but they certainly feel lighter…and I feel like I can continue going forward and making peace with everything that happened up until now.” he smiled, the broomies all shuffling enthusiastically and waking Golden with their noise, who yawned and rubbed her eyes. Naminé smiled, “I think you’ve done well, Percy. You’ve gone through your memories, despite the fact that they can cause pain, and that takes a lot of bravery. Without the pain, we can’t heal, so I’m glad you’re ready to move forward and start healing.” she reached up to pat him on the back, the light man giving her a gentle hug, and then turning to the master, who looked equally, if not more, proud. “I’ll soon start looking into getting a professional that you can talk to, and Golden too, if you’d like to join Percy? It might help your feelings of nervousness and worries, if you talk them out with someone, and you two can go together and get all better together.” he smiled, reaching down to boop the sleepy girl’s nose, who looked up at him in slight confusion, but was listening all the same. “Thank you dad, I’m glad I can see that I’m not a bother, to you or anyone else…and I can proudly accept myself as one of you, a Symphonus.” he smiled, Golden pushing off the pillow and running over to hug attack his legs, surprising him a little. The light man brought her into his arms, the little girl resting her head on his shoulder as it began to droop, and he held the drawing in midair with a light tendril, the broomies all squabbling to look at it. He then had a thought, and whispered something to Naminé, who beamed. “Oh, yes! The Blue Fairy and Jiminy, right? I’ll draw them right away for you.” she smiled, immediately taking out her drawing pad, Percy giving a smile. “Thank you so much Naminé, I can’t wait to see it!” he grinned, before giving a soft smile as Golden buried herself into his shoulder, well and truly tired out after their holiday. “Come on, time for bed flossie.” he whispered, leaning his head on hers for a moment with a smile. He headed up to her room, taking her to bed as Mum carried Julius and Yen Sid took Mickey, tenderly holding his little mouse in his arms, and the rest of the group finished up for the night, Starlight zipping out the window to give everyone good dreams, and waving to the moon as she passed it. Percy passed Golden some pyjamas, and then found a story for them to read, about a young boy and his neighbour, who were transported to a magical place between worlds through the boy’s uncle and two very special rings. And when he finished the story, the little girl fell asleep, dreaming of pools and rings and other fantastical things, and Percy headed up to bed, before feeling something hop up onto his shoulder. He almost couldn’t believe what he saw when he turned, Jiminy appearing and tipping his hat. “Hey there son, it’s been a while!” he chuckled, Percy gasping and holding out his palms, embracing the cricket and the two sharing a long, warm hug. “Jiminy…it’s been ages, but…” he smiled, his eyes wandering toward the window. He opened up the shutters, letting the air flow through the room and waft around his curtains, and saw her up there, the brightest star in the sky, right as Starlight zipped past. He gave a wave, and smiled, it seemed the stars really had answered his call. And after changing into his nightclothes, and giving Jiminy a soft, clean hand towel for the cricket to snuggle up in whilst he got cosy in the candleholder, Percy turned back to the stars, and blew a kiss up toward them, eyes shining as if they were full of stars too. “Thank you, Mama.”