Part 6: Ripples on Glass
September, the autumn had truly arrived as the green leaves turned to golden brown, scattering across the grounds around the castle. After a year had passed, everything appeared to return to normal. They played board games, went on little trips to the town, where Golden had been spoiled with new dresses and little outfits, including a sparkly galaxy-themed dress she wore in the winter, the dark, starry dress really stood out during the snowfall. Mum was staying over a bit more too, she brought down a few of her books for Golden to read, one were quite old and from her own childhood. She also wanted to stay close to Scout, wanting to catch up on all the days she wasn’t there to see her grow, and the fact Scout’s 16th birthday had just passed. This marked a whole three years since Sonatina had returned to her daughter’s life, and the two of them couldn’t have been happier. Even Aero was joining in on several occasions to have several wonderful memories with Yen Sid and the whole gang again, and often invited Golden, Starlight and the boys to her tower of study, where they commonly had little sleepovers and ended up staying up until 6:AM in the morning…On one particular morning at the castle, Golden had slept in after a long but exciting magic lesson from Yen Sid, who took the time to spend an extra few hours giving her a lecture on her spells, even if he needed to go out early the next morning. Opening her eyes, it was a beautiful morning, not a cloud in the sky on this crisp, autumnal day. Her clock read 10:00, she could stay in bed a little longer, but she was so well rested she felt the urge to get up and start her day right away. She jumped out of bed, feeling rather giddy as she grabbed her toothbrush and robes, getting dressed much quicker than usually and going to see the broomies as they started to make her breakfast. Upon arriving in the kitchen however, the broomies were doing the dishes instead, dressed in aprons and rubber gloves as they scrubbed the plates and utensils. “Huh? Aww no…did I miss breakfast?!” She gasped, her tummy making a soft, unhappy rumble at the sight of no food. She was suddenly hugged from behind, Oswald had pulled her into a tight one-armed hug, digging his knuckles into her cranium and snickering mischievously. “Look who slept in!” he laughed, Golden struggled roughly to pull herself free, slapping Oswald on the back to get him to let go. “ACK! Oswald get off! Get off you…you ahh! Middle child!” He didn’t let go, instead her remark only made him hold her tighter, he’d keep her there all day if he could. Julius had stepped in, wearing a little green hoodie with a cake on it and dark green shorts. He was joined by Percy, who was wheezing around as a shiny ball of light. “Hello there Lumen!” Percy greeted whimsically, floating down in front of Golden as Oswald had finally released her. “You look a little worried, my dear…but the master said it was alright for you to sleep in today, you had quite an eventful day yesterday, so don’t you fret! He had to go out early on but we saved you a breakfast muffin to eat!” Swiftly transforming back into a man, Percy held out a little plate in his hand like a charming butler, which contained a little muffin that had dark and white chocolate chips inside, and looked as fresh as it did after coming out of the oven. Golden’s eyes widened as she took the muffin and hungrily munched down on it, finishing it in two minutes flat. “Mmm, just how I like ‘em!” she said, trying not to talk too much with her mouth full. Percy chuckled lightly, offering Golden a handkerchief to wipe the crumbs off her lips. “Thanks Percy! For the muffin, hehe! Say, where did dad go? He said he…needed to go out?” Percy stood up straight, and magically whisked an apple over to his direction, slicing it into two and offering a piece to Golden. “Just into the town!” he answered, twirling an apple slice on his finger tip. “Mickey was up early too and went with him. They just needed to get some things, probably stuff like potion ingredients or something to create a weird but wonderful experiment! I daresay I’d be up for a wacky wild adventure right about now, it’s been some time since something…well, HUGE happened here, hasn’t it?” The door to the workshop suddenly opened with a great bang, almost making everyone jump out of their hats. Mickey stomped inside, his hands were clenched as he strolled past them all quickly, muttering something rather angry as he went to grab a slice of cheese from the fridge, and slamming its door shut with great force. “Mickey?” Oswald was stunned, he hadn’t seen Mickey look so angry in…well, in such a long time. “Mick?” Mickey side-eyed his brother, taking one bite out of the block of cheese. “Hey.” he replied bluntly, there was none of that sweet-natured cheerfulness he normally displayed, even the way he ate looked incredibly irate. “Are you alright there, Mickey?” asked Percy, looking a little concerned for the young mouse. “Just…peachy.” Mickey scowled, sighing with a slight guttural growl as he stormed upstairs and into his room, shutting the door behind him. The four stood in the kitchen were utterly stunned, and so was Scout as she joined them, having passed by Mickey in the hallway. “Yeowch…what happened to Mickey?!” she whispered, pulling the brim of her cap down a little over her face, Percy could only shrug, while Oswald, Julius and Golden stood in silence and exchanged curious yet amused expressions. “I haven’t the foggiest, Scout…” Percy said, taking a teensy bite from his apple slice. “Unless he swapped bodies with Donald? I mean, it is a possibility! Right?” The door behind had shut, much more gently as Yen Sid came in, carrying a bag of shopping in his arm. He gave a soft sigh, like he was satisfied after a long walk, and took off his hat, placing it down on the kitchen table. “Hey dad, what was that?!” cried Julius, suddenly snapping out of his silence as the sorcerer now returned. “What happened to Mickey?!” Yen Sid lifted his head up as he began to take out items from the bag and place them on the kitchen counter, he looked calm, if not a little tired. “Hmm?” he hummed, fixing his sights on his rather confuzzled apprentices. “Mickey!” cried Golden. “He’s all…grumpy and stompy and pouty…that’s my thing!” Yen Sid smirked at her, a snicker escaping his lips as he turned slightly red in the cheeks. “Ahh…I believe our little Mickey is feeling quite embarrassed.” he answered, surpassing a cheeky little laugh. “You see, while we were out in town I met up with a few friends, including Ambrose and his two children, Pendragon and Fildor, as well as a young new recruit at the council named Ruby. We all chatted for a bit, but I seemed to let it slip about that time Mickey, ahem…borrowed my magic hat and created the great broom flood a while back…They were all eager to know and I told them the story. Mickey became rather embarrassed when they started to laugh, and now he’s in a huff and being grouchy.” Oswald tried not to laugh, while Golden looked a lot more understanding to Mickey’s situation, she didn’t like to be embarrassed either. Scout on the other had crouched over, holding her sides as she guffawed upon hearing what had happened. “Awwww man!! Hahaha poor Mick! Hey, you should have told them about the superbroom instead! That little dilemma almost got us all into trouble! Hahaha!” Scout’s words made Yen Sid stare at her a little with interest, his eyebrow raising as a smile began to curl on his lips. “Yes. The superbroom.” he grinned, raising an eyebrow in the teen’s direction, his humorous demeanour from earlier certainly hadn’t stopped with Mickey. “I would have enjoyed telling the council members that, and how I remember it was mostly…YOUR idea, Scout.” Scout paused, her laughter ceasing suddenly as she recalled how the superbroom came to be. She wiped at her brow, giving a small scowl at her master in return. “Well, it was ALL of us who had the idea!” she cried, tapping her chin in thought. “Well…mostly me and Mickey’s, but…oh you get the idea!” She blushed sheepishly, earning a subtle glare from the smaller apprentices, while Percy merely smirked as he was enjoying the scene and thinking ‘haha caught ya.’ toward Scout. Sighing softly, Julius stepped forward to help Yen Sid put away the shopping, struggling a little as he took out a huge bottle of milk. “S-so…about Mickey.” he said, straining his voice as he hauled the bottle into the fridge, breathing as if had just lifted weights at the gym. “He’s…phew! In a pretty bad mood. What do you reckon we ought to do?” Yen Sid leaned back slightly on the kitchen counter, stroking his beard as he would always do when he started to think, it always made the apprentices go quiet, as if he was really reaching into his brain to find the answers. “Hmmm, Mickey isn’t one to stay mad long.” he spoke softly. “He’s had his episodes, and I’ve always seen to it that he cheers up, it’s pretty simple to get him to smile or laugh, as I’m sure you all know.” This was something they could all agree on, Mickey was always such a happy little mouse with a big, positive personality, if something were to go amiss, he'd always find ways to brighten back up again. Everyone thought Percy had turned into a light again, but it was merely him getting an idea as a little lightbulb flickered above his head. “I’VE GOT IT!” he beamed, clapping his hands for a moment as he thought of the most brilliant idea that stemmed from a time nearly a year or two ago. “Do you all remember the time we all had to make Yen Sid laugh? Well, what if we did it again, but with Mickey? What do you say, shall we cheer up our little friend together?” Golden and Oswald looked at each other at his proposal, and started giggling to each other quite giddily, Julius nodded enthusiastically with a smile, and Scout gave Percy her approval with a fist bump. Percy chuckled heartily, and Yen Sid caught his eye for a brief moment, the light man’s joy really seemed to radiate off of him like sunlight. Ever since he and Golden had been going to weekly therapy sessions, the frequent visits from Jiminy, and the reveal from the memories, Percy had seemed so much better, and so was Golden, who for the last several months was like a happy, carefree little child as she should be. “I like the sound of your plan, Percy.” Yen Sid grinned, folding his hands back into his sleeves once more as he joined the group. “Let's do a similar method to last time, we’ll all take a turn each. So, who wants to go first to make our grumpy little mouse smile?” Julius shot his hand up into the air, waving it rapidly and jumping up and down for his dad’s attention. “Me, me! I’ll go first!” he called, quickly darting over the fridge and rummaging through it, stepping back with a large glass plate of various cheeses. “With all this cheese, he’s sure to smile! We know he can’t resist all his favourite cheeses haha!” Oswald wasn’t so sure, though he knew Mickey always had quite the appetite, he might not feel up to much given his mood. “Are you sure, Julius?” he asked him quizzically, “I mean, he did just take a bit of cheese with him to his room.” But Julius seemed confident, giving Oswald a playful wink. “Which means he’ll feel even better with a whole platter!” he giggled. “Alright everyone, follow me and watch the magic begin!”
Julius took the platter of cheese and started running up to the third floor, the rest of the apprentices watching from below. Due to the balconies being very close to the doors of the three boys’ rooms, they could see relatively easily, and were curious about what could happen. Julius took a deep breath, hiding the platter behind his back, and smiled enthusiastically as his tail began to wiggle in anticipation, knocking on Mickey’s door. “Mickey!! It’s Julius! Can I come in?” he called, the mouse taking a second to respond before finally calling out from inside, voice sounding a little flat and annoyed. “Door’s open.” he replied, Julius smiled and crossing his fingers, before opening it and taking a second to look around, noticing Mickey on his bed, flipping through his spellbook and a blanket around his shoulders, practically sinking into a pile of plushies and pillows. He was skimming some of the pages, looking bored and irritable as he stared at the spells, so many advanced spells he still hadn’t mastered…even sorcery itself was irritating him! He eventually looked up though, glowering, and was met with Julius’s soft, eager smile. “Surprise!! Look what I got you, little bro!” he giggled, pulling the platter out from behind his back like a magician. Mickey frowned slightly, looking it over as Julius tried to keep his smile going, but getting the sense that something wasn’t quite working here. “Is that my cheese, Julius?” he asked, Julius sheepishly nodding. “Well y-yes! I know it’s meant to be in the fridge but…ah, well I thought you might like to have it here in your room for a change!” he smiled, Mickey looking back down at the book, not seeming amused by the thought. “Thanks…but I’m not really hungry. You can leave it there though.” he mused, pointing at his bedside table, where Julius saw a photo of the mouse and someone very special to him, a past father before Yen Sid. He smiled slightly, feeling nostalgic, and then headed out, waving goodbye as he skipped off and shut the door behind him. Walking down the stairs, he remembered a time that he’d introduced his best friend to that kind man, how she’d loved to see him draw “funnies”, as she called them… he sighed slightly and headed downstairs, a little disappointed that it hadn’t worked but overall feeling quite cheery nonetheless, happy to be thinking back on the “good ol’ days”, as he’d put it! Upon reaching the bottom of the stairs, though, he couldn’t help but shrug. “I was SO certain that would work! My little bro loves his cheese!” he grinned, Golden looking nervous at the idea that Mickey would be angry for a long time, and might not want to play with her or the others. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen him like this before! He’s usually all “hot dog!” this and “that’s swell, pal” that!” she giggled, everyone laughing at her spot-on impression of the big brother she so admired. Yen Sid hid a smile, looking up toward the third floor, and at the door to Mickey’s room. “Well he rarely gets like this, but…it appears this hasn’t been his day! Though I didn’t think…” he paused, trying to hold back a chuckle, “I didn’t think he’d get cross over it, haha!” he snickered, the other apprentices giggling and hoping Mickey couldn’t hear them. Percy floated and rested on his shoulder in light form, bobbing around in agreement. “Oh, well you know as well as I do master that everyone has those buttons that make us a bit crabby when they’re pressed! Oswald here hates it when you steal his ears or foot, Julius gets mad if you pull out a laser pointer, Scout gets angry when Mum calls her bubble-butt, heehee-” he was cut off by Scout looking as if she wanted to snap him into pieces, “and Golden gets very frustrated when she can’t master something first try!” he finished, Yen Sid shaking his head in amusement. “And you, Percival Symphonus, get annoyed at the broomies.” he smiled, Percy zipping around his head in retaliation, Yen Sid trying to swat him away. “And YOU, Master, you get annoyed when you can’t find your hat, or when your apprentices misbehave!” he chuckled, once more settling on Yen Sid’s shoulder, and wondering who could be next. Scout gave a smile, and volunteered, raising her hand and Golden looking excited to see what her big sister would come up with. “I can go next, pops! I’ll bet there’s something I can figure out to cheer him up…let’s see…” she mused, stroking her chin in thought, and then her own lightbulb appeared, the girl snapping her fingers and teleporting up to the third floor, knocking on Mickey’s door. “Heeey!! I got something to show ya!”
There was a response right away, only a rather soft sigh with a touch of exasperation. Scout was about to knock, but she stopped in time as Mickey started to answer back. “So this is how it is?” he said, followed by the sound of him flopping back onto his bed. “Fine, come in.” Grinning, Scout enters the room, spotting Mickey lying on his bed holding his spellbook still, but not really reading it and just skimming through each page again and again out of boredom. “Yes, Scout? What is it?” Mickey asked, Scout let out a small snicker, and clapped her hands, a few lilac musical notes floated out of her palms, each of them going in a different direction and picking a certain object in the room to land on. “There!” Scout cried, and once each music note touched something in the room, it began to float up in the air. One note landed on Mickey’s nose, making him sneeze. “Achoo! Wha-woooah!” Mickey all of a sudden found himself floating upwards, he tried to swim through the air, but he only ended up moving very slowly like a tortoise. “Ta-da! What do you think, Mickey?” beamed Scout who looked incredibly pleased with her work. “Pretty neat, isn’t it?” Mickey was now afloat upside down, he looked like he was smiling but from this angle he was only frowning. “Can you put me dooooown?! I’m not in the mood, okay?” Scout noticed his grumpy scowl, and lowered him back down a little, gently placing him back onto the bed with his plushies all falling into his lap, as well as his spellbook. “Wasn’t that fun? I wish I could’ve floated with ya!” Mickey subtly rolled his eyes, reaching over for his hand-held gaming console and turning it on. He also took a moment to make sure the photo on his bedside stand was still there after everything floated up like bubbles. “Uh-huh…mmm, Scout?” Mickey piped up. “If you don’t mind, I wanna be alone right now.” Scout shrunk her shoulders a little, feeling like her little idea had not quite worked out. She didn’t even get a titter out of him! “Are you sure, Mick?” she asked meekly. “I cooooould show you some of the stuff I learned recently! By saying recently I mean…my last apprenticeship class, haha!” Mickey sighed again, he didn’t want to snap at her, and so tried to keep his composure. “I don’t wanna yell, Scout.” he frowned seriously. “So please, vamoose!” he pointed to the half open door, using a little bit of his own magic to open it a little more. Scout shuffled left, quickly exiting the room before Mickey would yell, potentially. “Alright, I’m going already!” she gulped, closing the door behind her. By now the others had joined her on the third floor. Scout felt a bit annoyed that her plan hadn’t worked out, and almost threw her cap down. “Geez Louise, did you guys see that?!” she asked, Golden merely shaking her head and shrugging her shoulders, Julius tugged on the collar of his shirt and Oswald was leaning against Percy’s leg, smirking lightly as this meant he had a chance of succeeding. “I swear! Someone oughta call him MICHAEL! Or…or SOMETHING! Seriously, he's as grumpy as a manager! And not even my little trick worked…I could have sworn it would’ve!” Everyone chuckled as she leaned against the wall, looking at the two remaining apprentices. Oswald puffed up his chest, jokingly shoving little Golden aside. “Betcha I can do it! Yeah, he’ll be on the floor crying with laughter when I’m done!” he boasted, Percy smirking as he’d secretly bet on the rabbit succeeding, and gave him a thumbs up. “Go on then, show us what you’ve got!” he grinned, Oswald winking and smirking at Golden, as if to say ‘I’ll beat ya!’, and then opening the door.
“Heeey Mick!” he cheered, Mickey looking up from his console with a slight glare. “What NOW?! Can’t everyone just leave me alone?” he grumbled, Oswald shaking his head so hard that it might have fallen off altogether. “Nope, no sir! Not until you cheer up, grumpyguts! But I have just the thing to get you smiling, I know it!” he grinned, Mickey just raising an eyebrow. “Oh really?” he muttered, Oswald nodding and cracking his knuckles, giving his little brother a wink. He reached up and popped both of his ears off, folding them until he created a balloon animal with his rubberhose ears, going “ta-da!” as he did. He smiled, and created more, first a dog, then a flower, a snake, and then finally a butterfly, Mickey tilting his head slightly in interest. “Who needs a balloon, when you’re a rubberhose toon?!” he chuckled, Mickey observing and then looking a little worried. “Hey Ossie, doesn't that hurt your ears?” he wondered, Oswald looking confused as he was currently deaf. “What?” he asked, trying to read Mickey’s lips as he spoke, the mouse sighing. “Oswald?! Doesn’t that hurt your ears?!” he yelled, Oswald still unable to hear him and straining. “WHAT?!” he cried, Mickey facepalming and turning back to his console, Oswald really was deaf in this state. “Put your ears back on…” he mumbled, Oswald suddenly slipping slightly and dropping his ears as he gripped onto the nightstand for support, also noticing the picture and quieting down slightly, before turning on his heel and running out, the balloon springing around and smacking right into Golden, causing her to topple over. “Hey, come back here!” Oswald called, Mickey firing a spell to close the door after him, turning back to his game and deciding to take his mind off the things that were bothering him. “Nice try, Oswald, but please, I just want some time alone!” he called out, Oswald quickly retrieving his ears from Golden, and the girl rubbing her head as little stars spun around it. “What a tough nut to crack! I thought this would be easy!” Oswald pouted, offering a hand to Golden to help her up, the little girl smirking up at him. “Seems the one on the floor crying isn’t Mickey.” she giggled, Oswald’s face turning red and the rabbit chucking one of his ears at her, which hit her in the nose. “Relax, it was pretty funny! I love how you three can use your bodies in such unique and fun ways…I wish I was a toon!” she giggled, Oswald rolling his eyes slightly but softening, leaning his elbow on her as if she was a table, and messing up her hair a little. Percy and Scout were snickering, but Percy looked rather impressed at the same time. “I wish I could do things like that, Oswald, but at least I have my luscious sideburns!” he giggled, Oswald glowing at the compliments toward his unique talent, it certainly set him apart. “Oh? Really? Well, it’s no biggie, it’s fun to play around with them, and you know, back when I was a movie star? We used to use it for all sorts of stuff!” he grinned, the group wandering downstairs as Oswald began telling tales of his various hijinks, and Julius occasionally chiming in to explain how he also could do some of the things Oswald mentioned. They reached the sitting room, Yen Sid gently pulling Golden onto his lap, and staring up at the balcony again, and at the closed door, sighing. “Well, it does sound like he wants some peace, he might calm down on his own, who knows? But…if he doesn’t, I reckon we’ll know what to do, don’t you?” he winked down at his youngest apprentice, who looked up in curiosity. “We do?” she raised an eyebrow, Percy plopping himself down next to them on the sofa with a cup of tea, and nodding. “Oh, I don’t doubt it for a second! Dad does tend to have really good ideas to solve a problem, not that you aren’t without your excellent ideas, far from it Lumen! And I have them too! Let’s put our heads together!” he grinned, Golden nodding enthusiastically but thinking about that last part. Everyone was using their heads, trying to make Mickey smile, trying to make him giggle…she wondered to herself how she’d feel if she was in his situation…
She imagined Yen Sid telling Uncle Ambrose about something embarrassing she did, and how cross and annoyed it would make her, it would likely make her want to spend the day hiding under her bed, or trying to distract herself, but it would irritate her…but what would make her feel better? She tried to think with her heart, putting herself in his (oversized, yellow) shoes, and thought about Mickey, and how he lit up like a million stars whenever he was happy…
Percy observed her focus, and smiled slightly, this hyperfocused state of hers was quite amusing to watch. He’d often seen it in the therapy sessions, when she’d been given an assignment or something to think about, she would go into a fully focused state, and blocked out practically everything aside from her work. He grinned as she furrowed her brows in thought, meeting the master’s eyes. “It’s likely she hasn’t heard a word of what we’re saying, Percy.” Yen Sid chuckled, Percy grinning and pulling out his bell, bashing it once and getting her out of her state, the little girl blinking in surprise. “Gah! Huh?” she cried, turning to both of them and Percy winking at her. “We’ve been trying to brainstorm solutions! We’ve got a few, like going to the park or inviting some people over, but do you have anything?” he smiled, Golden stroking her chin in thought, almost exactly like Scout or Yen Sid would. “Hmmm…” she mumbled, quiet as she continued to think, before an idea came to her, snapping her fingers. “OH!! I got it!!”
A while later, the little girl knocked on Mickey’s door, hearing him grumble from inside after being interrupted again, and she felt her stomach turn nervously, but tried to remember what their therapist had told her, and Yen Sid too, about counting to ten, and trying again. “What now?!” he cried, putting down his game console and kicking off his duvet, accidentally knocking off StellaLou and Gelatoni in the process. Golden took a deep breath, moving back slightly as Mickey approached the door, practically slamming it open, but his face softened slightly upon seeing his little sister there, hands behind her back. “Oh what, you got somethin’ to show me, or a silly trick? Don’t you try any funny business, sis!” he grumbled, Golden shaking her head and stepping back again, not wanting to set him off. She gave a slightly guilty smile. “Nope, I just borrowed a little something from dad…” she chuckled, Mickey frowning as he remembered the last time he’d done that, and what insanity had occurred. Nevertheless, he was just a little curious, and then his jaw almost dropped as she pulled out the muse, stolen from its spot in the observatory. “Tada!! Look, I’m planning to go to the cosmos, but don’t tell anyone! Oooh, do you wanna come with me?” she giggled, hoping her improv skills were up to scratch as she held the muse, Percy hiding behind a nearby wall and manipulating it, watching her movements carefully to keep up the illusion. “Golden…you did WHAT?!” the little mouse cried, Golden giggling and spinning it in her hands. “Heeey, it’s really fun! And look, I’m pretty good with it too!” she boasted, Mickey watching as she made it float above her head, impressed she’d learned…usually only masters could manipulate it like this, like Percy or Yen Sid- they had training ones for a reason! She gave a grin up to him, raising an eyebrow. “Sooo, what do ya say? Shall we go?” she smiled, offering her hand and holding the muse in the other, Mickey turning back to his room for a minute. “Oh…alright! Just give me a second!” he smiled, running into his room and pulling on his shoes, as well as turning off his game console. Golden wandered in, putting down the muse for a second and straightening up his bedsheets, before turning to the picture on his bedside table. “Is that you?” she whispered, Mickey turning to look and nodding as he picked up the fallen plushies. “Do you remember when we looked into my memories? That’s the same man.” he smiled, nostalgically picking it up. “Come on, let’s go, hurry up!!” Golden insisted, taking Linabell and Gelatoni cheekily under her arm, and didn’t even give Mickey time to put down the photo before she was dragging him out, toward the observatory. Percy smiled, opening up the gateway right as Golden did the motion, just as she’d learned from watching the light man and Yen Sid, and just beyond was a world of stardust and light, beautiful and serene. Mickey gasped, Golden taking his hand as she balanced the plushies and muse, and they headed through, Percy secretly following them as a ball of light and sustaining the spell, knowing Yen Sid could easily follow if he so wished.
The realm, at first, seemed shrouded in shadow, but the light of the muse spread, and several past compositions came into view, from previous apprentices. Percy even recognized one of the melodies from Master Hiro, and then another from Master Chiria, the realm lighting up and revealing stars and planets as far as the eye could see, percussive chimes and melodies echoing from every inch of the place. The two youngsters were in awe, before giggling as the plushies began flying away with the antigravity, Golden reaching up to grab them and then feeling her own feet leaving the ground, Mickey clinging to her but unable to avoid laughing as they rose together. They drifted amongst percussive, molten planets, moons circling these otherworldly spheres, and Golden allowed the muse to float alongside her, having faith in Percy to keep them safe. She reached out her hands, brushing against several of the starry memories, and dreaming of the day her own song, resting inside her muse at the moment, would someday be released and fly with the others, and bring music to the universe. Mickey kept a hold on her, and they eventually felt their feet touch an icy ring circling round a small, melodic planet, sitting down together as the plushies sat beside them. Mickey smiled, looking up in amazement at the sounds and stars, how wondrous the universe was. He looked down at the picture again, giving a soft smile, and then toward his little sister, noticing just how brightly her eyes were shining at these celestial bodies and the wonders they held. He moved slightly closer to her, and leant his head atop hers. “You know, Goldie? On the day of the broom incident, I dreamt I could bring a realm like this to life! That I could control the universe, stars shooting from my fingertips, waves crashing at my feet…” he stood up, the scale of his dream seeming to send ripples throughout the realm. “But…sometimes, sorcery irritates me. I don’t know how to do the spells I want to…and I know I’ve been doing better lately, but there’s still so much I don’t get, will I ever get it? Will I ever…” he trailed off, Golden putting an arm around him as he looked down. “Will…I ever make them proud?” he sniffled, looking down at the picture and then pulling off his hat, Golden knowing exactly who he was thinking of. She handed him his plushies, and stood up herself, looking up for a second and closing her eyes, the moon coming into view over the horizon. In that moment, she imagined Mickey would sound like a gentle recorder, playing his melody out to the universe in solitude, but lighting up the hearts of millions, whether he knew it or not. And she turned to him, smiling as the moonlight illuminated them both, and moved everything aside, weighting it using the muse, and took his hands. “You know what I think?” she smiled, gently wiping away a few tears that were rolling down Mickey’s cheeks, clearly today was just not his day, but she wanted to fix that. “You’ve made them proud already. Yen Sid is so proud of how far you’ve come, heck, the broomies listen to you more than they do me! And…that other man, too…didn’t you say once “he’d be proud of all of us”?” she smiled, Mickey sniffling but managing a smile. “It’s…just that I sometimes struggle to believe that…I hope I’m doing the right thing, but it can be hard to tell, you know?” he explained, Golden nodding understandingly, before suddenly pulling her brother into a hug, the sounds of the realm seeming to swell in harmony with the recorder she was imagining him as. “I know you’re doing the right thing. And it’s completely okay to feel worried or afraid, we can’t be happy all the time. But you’ve always got friends and family to make you feel better.” she smiled, Mickey gently drawing back from the hug but now looking much brighter, Percy feeling his heart melt as they sat down again, watching the world go by as they gently spun on the rings of a foreign planet. “Oh, and about that dream…Yen Sid said that mastery is earned when you complete a personal goal, after you graduate from being an apprentice. So…maybe you gotta believe in yourself more, because somewhere out there…” she pointed far up into the stars, Mickey following her hand…”is someone who’s proud of you. And…” she pointed again, Mickey still following, and then smiling as she pointed at herself, “and someone right here too.” she giggled, the mouse now being the one to hug her, so tight she thought he might snap her in two, but giggling as he held her close, happy tears filling his eyes.
The two chatted for a while, Mickey telling all sorts of stories about hijinks he’d got himself into, like becoming a musketeer, creating a flood of frogs or accidentally adopting some foals, but those were stories for another day. And Golden told him about how she used to play in her back garden, discovering a space behind a bush that she’d called a hideout, and how she’d had so many toys… even some that looked like him! They talked for a long time, leaning on each other and then playing with the plushies, making Linabell and Gelatoni go on an adventure to discover moon rocks, and finally, Golden drew the realm’s composition spell toward her with magic, a trick Yen Sid had taught them. Though she’d struggled with writing sheet music, especially at first, she’d been a natural at pressing the notes, and had a great sense of rhythm. She unlocked the spell, revealing an FX Sculptor, and the two made a melody with it, occasionally pausing to splash each other with the magical water used to create the sound. And with their combined melody, the realm brightened up even more, as if the stars themselves were laughing happily at their joy, as Mickey finally felt better. “You know, Mickey? I really want to come up here and send a spell up, just like all those other stars!” she smiled, pointing at the other twinkling melodies as they lit up in multitudes of colour, Mickey nodding and imagining that day. “I know you can do it! And on that day, it’ll be pretty swell, and I’ll betcha nobody will be prouder than me, haha!” he grinned, Golden feeling her spirits soar and jumping up onto his back, the two leaping across planets as they made their way back to the open gateway, creating a trail of stardust as they moved. And far away, in a tower, another sorcerer had spotted them, and waved up at them, smiling as she repositioned her telescope to examine another realm.
The two crashed into the observatory, Mickey quickly making sure nothing was damaged, and Golden subtly watched as Percy exited the realm, putting the muse back on the stand. “Thanks Goldie…” Mickey suddenly spoke, taking her hand as his eyes sparkled. “The stargazing was really nice, especially with the day I’ve been having…but I feel a lot better.” he smiled, Percy zipping to the master, but not before hearing Golden’s sweet reply- “I can imagine! But I’ve always got your back, and I’m proud of you no matter what!”
Yen Sid was rearranging some books in the living room, finding some that he needed to return to Sonatina’s home, and wondering if the girls might like to go and deliver them the next day. Percy zipped over, interrupting him, and transformed into a man, gleefully grinning. “Master, it worked!! He’s so happy!” he spun around in joy, Yen Sid smiling and feeling glad he was out of that state. “I thought she’d know what to do.” he mused, Percy doing a roll onto the sofa, so his legs were dangling overtop of it, as if he was dangling upside down like usual. “Ahhh, well that’s how she is! She’s like a little light herself, a lumen!” he giggled, Yen Sid nodding, and then hearing the footsteps of the apprentices upstairs, moving a finger to his lips and shushing Percy, listening to them chatting. “Don’t be too angry at dad, okay? He didn’t realise it made you so insecure, I bet! He probably just found it a funny story, like with superbroom!” she smiled, Mickey shrugging but looking a little more convinced. They headed into his room for a second, fixing up his plushies and putting the picture back, Mickey kicking off his shoes and nodding, ready to head downstairs and chill with everyone. Golden reached the door, before turning mischievously. “Race ya!” she giggled, already getting a running start. “Wait I didn’t even- oh fine, get back here you little pipsqueak!” he laughed, chasing after her and the two reaching the sofa, where they jumped on and Mickey started tickling her, the rest of the apprentices hearing her laughter and deciding to join in, to the point the youngest apprentice was gasping between her giggles, but was still having fun. The apprentices noticed Mickey’s improved mood, turning to Percy, who winked. “Well, she’s done it!” he smiled, Mickey finally letting Golden go and turning to look up at the light man in surprise. “Huh-? Done what? Heeey, what’s the big idea?” he frowned, the apprentices all smirking and Golden giving a cheeky giggle behind her hand. “Well…I may have told a teeny tiny lie- I wasn’t the one controlling the muse! That was Percy, and Dad helped me come up with the plan, but we all just really wanted to cheer you up! That’s also why everyone was trying to make you smile earlier!” She chuckled, the rest of the apprentices nodding. Yen Sid suddenly poked out from behind the couch, and picked Mickey up onto his shoulders, the little mouse squealing as he hadn’t expected it, but welcoming it all the same. “And Mickey? Please, I never mean to embarrass or upset you. And as you should very well know, I’m incredibly proud of your progress, all of you in fact! And…I suspect that soon, I’ll be putting you in for your finals.” he winked, Golden going starry-eyed. “Even me?! Even though I’m little?!” She gasped, Yen Sid nodding and setting Mickey down next to her again, joining them on the sofa. “Even you, little one. You’ve been learning magic for a long time, 5 years now, and you’re at the same level as your older siblings, I don’t see any reason why you can’t take the test!” he smiled, Golden looking as if she would faint, both from excitement and also how much she would need to study. Scout snickered, glad her brother was feeling better, and bent down toward him. “So, MICHAEL, can we get back to calling you Mickey, or are you gonna keep being a grouch?” she giggled, Oswald chucking his foot at him and Julius giggling behind Scout, Mickey softening up as they all joined him on the sofa, Percy grabbing a sleepy Starlight from her nap and holding her in his arms. Even the broomies joined, Mickey smirking at them slightly. “You know what? Yeah, I’m alright now, gang! And hey, we’ve all done plenty of embarrassing things, right?” He smiled, everyone nodding. “Oh, there was that time when all the hats got mixed up by Ossie and we all started doing each other’s magic! Golden’s glitch went crazy with the electricity, Mickey couldn’t handle the music, and Julius was bouncing off the walls with stardust!” she chuckled, Julius raising his hand. “Oh, and that time Golden’s desk floated all the way to the ceiling, like in Mary Poppins! Remember, you were so scared!” he wheezed, Golden going red as her robes. “Hey, I was just trying a hard spell, I don’t know how you all did it so easy!” she whined, Oswald smirking. “Not our fault your hand slipped, squirt.” he giggled, the girl reaching across the sofa to whack him on the arm. Percy grinned, “What about that time the Master’s hat turned orange like Master Grey’s because of the colour changing spell?! He left a trail of orange dye everywhere, like an infinite snail trail! Poor broomies had to wash it all away.” he chuckled, the broomies putting their hands on their “hips” and shuffling in annoyance. “Oooh, and that time I accidentally made a bunch of frogs mid-lesson!” Mickey chuckled, Starlight waking up and giggling. “What about that time my wand got lost and Star was using it?! It turned itself into a glowworm!!” She giggled, everyone laughing at the humorous memory, though a humanoid Star was a cursed concept to them all, the silly blorbo was here to stay! Scout clicked her fingers, “What about that time when Mum put salt instead of sugar in one of her pies?! We were all like “yuck, salty! Tastes like the sea, did Delphis visit?!” haha!” she laughed, everyone laughing at the silly memories as the sun went down. And that night, Mickey knocked on Golden’s door as she arranged her books, setting up a schedule as Percy had taught her, and opened the door in his pyjamas, smiling as he watched her work. “Hey, you wanna read a story before bed?” he offered, Golden smiling and Mickey opening her big book of fairytales, ones he recognized from the fairytale realm and various friends. “Okay, this is a story about two boys who were born on the same day, and one was a prince, and the other a pauper…”
The moon shone through the curtains, Golden awakening from her sleep and immediately reaching for her dream journal, her hair a mess from tossing and turning. She turned on the lamp, found a pen in her bedside drawer, and heard the wind whistling through the window from when Starlight had departed for the night. Opening the journal, she started noting various things down, muttering to herself. “I’m sure there was one more…there was that…ugh, that annoying box! And a crown too, the one she had on her head. That was not a comfy place to live…” she said aloud, giggling slightly, but feeling her nerves overtaking her. The page was a mess, of items, words and people, and she tried to categorise them, filling up six pages as she remembered just how vivid that nightmare was. Picking up the tiger Scout had given to her, since Starlight wasn’t there, she wondered if she could go and see Yen Sid, hoping he wouldn’t be mad when she woke him up. She continued to draw, the silence of the castle only broken by the scribbling of her pen, and thought about everything. So many items, some she didn’t recognise, others she did…and a strange girl, beckoning her forward, and a boy too, with spiky hair and a kind face…she started to sketch them, but they were incomplete as her worries overwhelmed her. The therapist had told her to tell Yen Sid when she got nightmares, not only due to them being rather frightening and vivid, but also due to the nature of glitches, and the pretty solid evidence that she had some sort of foresight. She stood up, wondering if Yen Sid might know these people, and headed down the stairs, past Scout’s room, through the workshop, noticing two of the broomies were “sleeping” on the sofa, and clambered up the stairs to his room, knocking. “Hey dad…?” she whispered. He didn’t answer, asleep and breathing heavily in his slumber, Golden quietly creeping in and moving onto the bed next to him, tapping his shoulder. “Daaad?” she whispered, Yen Sid eventually opening his eyes, seeing his worried youngest with dark circles under her eyes, anxiety etched into her little face. Noticing the dream journal, he sat up, and brought her into his arms, ready for her to tell him everything. “It’s late, child…” he told her affectionately, running his fingers through her messy mop of hair as she curled up in his arms. “Did you have another nightmare?” Golden softly mumbled, still feeling rather tired after being awoken so suddenly, her mind and body had hardly adjusted to being awake yet. She shook her head, holding out the dream journal onto her lap. “Well, not quite a nightmare…if you wanna call it that?” she said. Yen Sid lowered his weary eyes, gently tapping Golden on the shoulder as he held her, a small tic he would do when he had one of his young apprentice bundled in his arms, he’d often spent many nights with the others when they had bad dreams, restlessness, worrying if there were monsters or living shadows in the house, he had grown used to it after so many years of experience. “Golden, if it is a nightmare that is keeping you up, you can tell me.” He said to her in a slightly firm, yet warm voice. “Remember what the therapist said? This is all completely normal, and there’s no better safety than us to help feel better in the mind.” Golden nodded, she knew, but she was being honest about the dream. Her fingers ran lightly over the cover of the dream journal, there was something about her dream she just couldn’t shake. “Well, you know my dreams can be quite…vivid, right?” she began, with Yen Sid nodding along slowly. “I can sometimes feel things in my dreams and even smell in them, which is incredibly weird considering I can’t smell most things! But anyways, in my dream, I saw the shapes of two people…they weren’t familiar to me and…it was a little scary…there were lots of objects, things I’ve seen before along with those two people. Here…I drew them for you.” She opened her journal up, showing him the pages and the drawings she spoke of. Yen Sid rubbed his eyes a little to adjust them more to the light as he lit up a small candle with a bit of magic. Scanning the pages, he wondered what these drawings meant, there were items he recognised too, including that box…a crown? And then the two figures, the girl didn’t look like anyone he knew off hand, he looked at Golden curiously. “Oh, this is the young miss?” he asked, Golden nodded. “Yes…she umm…had this curly brown hair and…her eyes were so bright, like gemstones!” the young girl explained greatly. “They were…almost like mine. Her dress was really pretty, it was layered, a bit like some of mine.” She pointed out the girl’s features with her finger, the girl indeed had curly hair, with a small headband stretching across her forehead, a dress with short sleeves over a long sleeved undershirt, and a large belt around her waist, adorned with many beautiful crystals, and finally around her neck, a very pretty locket. Golden never missed a detail about her dreams. “Hmmm, she’s an interesting looking character.” observed Yen Sid. “Uh-huh…” whispered Golden as she began to relax beside her father. “She was pretty friendly, and I think she wanted to help with something…I’m not sure though, it all happened very fast.” Yen Sid began to stroke his beard as his thoughts began to fill his mind, it almost seemed familiar, but he realised that he might have to go through his research books in the library to confirm anything. “I see…” he hummed, “And…what about the other figure?” Golden yawned a little, and showed him the illustration of the boy. Yen Sid’s eyes widened. “Oh…haha, oh Lunula?” he chortled, using her affectionate nickname as he smiled gently. “This person here…he looks very familiar to me. Tell me, do you know of a young man named Sora?” Golden blinked up curiously, the name somewhat rang a bell, she was either too sleepy, too overwhelmed by her dream, or there was someone named Sora that she just didn’t know, she couldn’t decide any of them right now. “Mmm, no?” she mumbled. “Can you tell me who Sora is?” Yen Sid chuckled, sitting a little more upright as he took the journal from Golden, setting it down on the bedside table before tucking the blankets around her shoulders a little more to stop her from getting chilly. “Sora is a friend of Naminé, and Xion.” he stated. “As well as Aqua, Terra and Ventus. He is a keyblade wielder like they are, he’s fought many battles, gone to different worlds, and saved them plenty times over on his travels. He had defeated a number of enemies, including several members of a dark organization, and someone who strayed from the path of the keyblade.” Golden was almost lulled to sleep by his voice and how he described the boy known as Sora, but she stayed awake enough to fully take in his words, resting her head on his beard slightly as he continued to stroke her dishevelled hair. “So he’s a…keyblade wielder too…that's amazingly cool!” she grinned, the idea of battling with keyblade seemed so intriguing to her, she remembered the first time Mickey showed her he had one, and then she met the Wayfinders, and later learned even her own papa had been experienced with one a long time ago. Yen Sid carried on with his story, enjoying her interest and enthusiasm she would always have for his tales. “Indeed, it is a power that shouldn’t be taken lightly, the journey is incredibly difficult, but those who are good at heart are sure to channel and bond with it. But you know…Sora did not defeat evil alone, he had his friends, Donald and Goofy, and Mickey too was there to battle alongside him, and even Riku, Kairi and the Wayfinders…it took great strength and teamwork, much like our little family unit, Golden. You would like Sora, I’m more than certain. He’s got a good heart, very easy to get along with, and would protect others, at all costs. He should be back on the Destiny Islands…why don’t I contact him and set up a little playdate for you both? Like when Namine and Xion come over sometimes?” Knowing all of this, Golden felt like her weird dream was all but forgotten, and she was more interested in the idea of meeting Sora now. She nodded her head, giggling as she bounced up on Yen Sid’s lap and tugged at his beard. “Oh would you?” she asked happily. “Please please! Haha! I wanna hear all about Sora’s adventures, and who he has met! I bet he’s been on as many travels as you, maybe even more?!” Yen Sid started to laugh, patting her on the head and gently poking at her ribs as she giggled. “Alright then, looks like I have a letter to write!” he smiled, and set his daughter carefully back down on the bed. “But it IS bedtime, as you know quite well, flossie! Do you think you’re able to go back to sleep now?” Golden gave a small nod, and rubbed at her sleepy eye, stifling a yawn. “I…I think so.” She said, before looking slowly back up at the old sorcerer. “But, if it’s alright with you, can I sleep here tonight? I think I’d feel a little better if I didn’t have to go back and sleep alone.” Yen Sid considered her question, and smiled slightly, if it would help Golden feel more comfortable and safe to be with him than by herself, and the young girl looked a bit too tired to trundle back to her bedroom. “Of course,” he answered tenderly. “Just for tonight. And if you need me to scare any nightmares away, just wake me up, okay? Here, allow me.” He gently helped lay her down, adjusting her pillow to make it comfy and taking the blanket to tuck her in. He gave her a little boop on the nose, making her giggle and tenderly kissing her cheek. “Goodnight, little one.” he whispered soothingly and lying down himself. “No more bad dreams…I love you, my Lunula.” Golden smiled and shifted a little closer to Yen Sid, snuggling under his arm. “Goodnight, papa.” She yawned. “I love you too.”
For a while, the room was quiet as the two of them rested, glad to be in each other’s company, until a dream began in Golden’s mind, disturbing the once peaceful atmosphere. The room around her was full of sharp, pointy crystals, in various colours. Mirrors lined the place from wall to wall, shining and reflecting the jewels, covering the room in sparkles and light. Golden noticed the girl and boy were there again, no, Sora, and they were beckoning her forward, telling her “come quickly!”. She took a step forward, and the room changed, no longer were they in a crystallised room, but now they were outside, a cold wind blowing across what looked like a mountaintop, thunder and lightning filling the sky as several storms broke out. She found herself looking around frantically, eyes drawn to the blue hue of Yen Sid’s robes, he was facing away from her. An unfamiliar person was holding a sword toward him, she felt her heart race- wait!!!
The little girl woke up in fright, gasping as she tried to calm her racing heartbeat down. Her hands were glitching in anxiety, even her eyes were slightly glitchy, but she took deep breaths, looking up at the ceiling, and then to her side, seeing Yen Sid had fallen back asleep, and his arm had moved too, resting over his heart instead of around her. She wondered if he might be dreaming of something nice, and plucked her dream journal off the bedside table, writing and drawing everything she saw, wiping away some tears that had begun to build in her eyes. She looked over at him again, seeing how peaceful he looked, and tiptoed out of his room, deciding to let him rest and see if anyone else was up to chat to her. Since it had been a few hours, it was possible, but unlikely… She walked down the stairs, careful to avoid a creaky one, and then wandered into the living room. There was nobody about, the two broomies on the sofa were still “sleeping”, and even when she called to see if anyone was up, nobody answered. She felt rather lonely and down, wondering if it would be okay to dream again, and sleep… she clambered up onto the sofa, finding a blanket nearby and pulling it over her, curling up with a cushion until she was snug as a bug in a rug. Perhaps…perhaps it had just been a normal nightmare, and had no meaning- maybe it had just happened because she was close to him. But…she thought back to that other person, she’d never seen anyone like that before. She’d fought many villains in her life, but hadn’t ever seen someone who looked like that, nor had she seen this “Sora” or that other girl. She felt tired from all the thoughts, closing her eyes and burrowing into the blanket, breathing slowing as she fell asleep, but imagining her dad was singing to her, helping her to fall asleep and humming along with him, before finally dropping off.
Yen Sid woke up, checking the time- around 6am…he turned, noticing Golden was no longer at his side, and the blanket was in disarray…he wondered if she’d gotten up, pulling on a dressing gown decorated with various illustrations of the moon, and held onto the banister as he descended the stairs, hearing nobody was about, but noticing the little girl’s door was open from across the house, though he suspected she wasn’t in there. He surveyed the house, wondering where she could be, before hearing a sound from the living room and walking over, noticing she was making various frightened sounds in her sleep, and even starting to glitch… “Golden? What in the name of…oh no, child…” he whispered, gently bending down and trying to shake her out of her sleep, trying not to be too rough despite her evidently having a nightmare. He gave her another shake, trying to call out to her… “Golden, wake up, it’s me!” He cried, the little girl’s eyes snapping open suddenly as she jolted away, catapulting forward and sitting up, hair messy and forehead sweaty. “NO!!!” Her cry echoed throughout the house, the two broomies jolting and falling onto the floor, angrily sweeping to get each other off as they’d fallen on each other. When they were properly alert, though, they rushed over to see if their honorary eight member was alright, Yen Sid noticing the journal open on the arm of the sofa and patting his daughter’s back, taking her hand in his own. It reminded her of the first time she’d gone into that scary void, but how he’d been there when she’d awoken, and was holding her hand, and Aero was holding her too…she took a deep breath, and looked up at him, anxiety clear on her face. “Easy, lunula, easy…you were having a nightmare, weren’t you?” Yen Sid whispered, Golden almost looking startled at seeing him right beside her, but nodding sadly, looking down at the blanket, and messing with a corner of it between her fingers. “Do you want to talk about it?” he offered, but she looked away. “I…I don’t think…” she stammered, Yen Sid immediately understanding and stroking her hair, Golden looking up at him with lost eyes, just like when she’d first arrived at his workshop…he nodded. “It’s alright sweetheart, you don’t have to talk about anything you don’t want to. And I understand if it’s difficult to talk about…don’t worry.” he smiled, Golden nodding and looking around, noticing the pile of books he’d organised yesterday… she yawned and rubbed her eyes, turning back to Yen Sid. “Breakfast won’t be ready for another hour, but you can wash, dress, and relax. And I’ll be in my office if you need to find me, I have a letter to send to Uncle Ambrose, actually.” he smiled, standing up and showing her a photo he’d tucked into his dressing gown, from yesterday, of herself and Mickey in the cosmos. She almost gasped, wondering how he’d taken it, but he just winked and watched as she got up, going upstairs to get ready. He noticed she’d left the dream journal, and picked it up, flipping through it and noticing she’d been drawing someone familiar…was that him? He raised an eyebrow, noticing an unfinished sketch of someone else, and flipped back, none of these characters were the same. He sighed, fretting wouldn’t help anything, especially after their escapades a few years prior, when he’d greatly misinterpreted the words of the journal and that had only led to more problems. He straightened out the sofa, the broomies starting to clean, and one of them holding up the pile of books. “Broomies, those are for Sonatina. I’ll see if any of the girls want to deliver them today, so please leave them there.” he smiled, the broom playfully saluting and the other one tapping it, as if to start a game of chase. He watched them play for a moment, the other five appearing from the basement and joining in, before turning back to the journal, looking down at the illustrations. “It’s strange…perhaps I have some involvement in this.” he whispered, before going to the office to write his letter, planning to look for his library books when he was done.
Golden got dressed, brushed her teeth and washed up in a good short time. It was a small distraction to the horrible nightmare she had witnessed, yet it still plagued her mind for the whole time she had been awake. She sighed softly and went over to the windows, pulling back the curtains and unlocking the hatch. The morning was warm and breezy, though light rain was to be expected in the afternoon until nightfall. A small twinkling sound was heard above Golden as she stuck her head out of the window, searching for the source of the sound. “Ahhh…morning Goldie…” Starlight came into view, looking like she had been on an hour-long rollercoaster, her eyes had small dark circles under them. She gently landed into Golden’s outstretched hands as the girl took her back inside the bedroom, setting her down on the bed. “Mmm…it’s early. W-when did you wake up today?” Golden mumbled quietly under her breath, sitting down beside her little friend and gently petting her, seeing Starlight here with her was a comfort, but she was unsure of how to explain her situation to her, the little glowworm had always been one of Golden’s best friends, but right now she didn’t have any involvement, was it fair to bring her into this frightening dilemma? “I woke up around…I dunno, is there a time before 6AM?” Golden asked, her eyelids lowering a little as she spoke, Starlight already picking up on her sleepiness. “You know there is!” the glowworm squeaked, jumping up to gently hover in front of Golden’s face. “It was just one of those nights, Starlight.” Golden smiled slightly, standing back up to go and grab her hat. “Come on, let's go eat. I bet dad has plenty of things planned for today! Maybe he’ll even send Oswald to fetch a new coffee machine since the last one got a bit faulty…let's go see!” She began to head to the door, but Starlight remained unconvinced, Golden may have gotten ready for the day, but she forgot to fix her hair which was something she’d do any other morning. She zipped over to the door handle, huddling around it to prevent Golden from leaving. “Nu-uh! Can’t fool me missy!” she said, putting on a serious demeanour which was only working slightly from the cute glowworm. “You think I can’t see when you’re not telling me something? Look at your hair, and you’ve got dark circles under your dark circles! You had a nightmare, didn’t you? You should have called me and I would have come to help, you know it’s an ability of mine, remember? To make bad dreams go away?” Golden’s eyes darted from side to side, she didn’t want to explain it, as much as she trusted Starlight who was no novice when it came to dreams. Still, it scared her, especially seeing how Yen Sid was involved in her nightmare, one wrong step and she could get others involved, hurt, trapped, or even… “I-it wasn’t THAT bad of a dream, I don’t think…” She said, rubbing her hands together a little, which only made her look nervous, her palms were sweaty, all she could see was the nightmare replaying again in her mind. She tried to force it out despite how difficult it was and clouded over any other thought inside her head. “It’s…it’s just…weird, you know? And scary…” By those words, Starlight had a feeling of what this dream might have been about, she flew over onto Golden’s shoulder, stroking her messy locks in a comforting gesture. “Why? Did something happen to you? Or…someone?” Starlight shivered a little, trying to keep up a strong front for Golden, who looked a little distressed at her little friend’s question. “A…future sight?” Golden swallowed a hard lump, and quickly took Starlight into her arms, cuddling her to her chest and making sure not to squeeze her too tight, she swayed her back and forth a little, the motions easing her slightly. “It was a vivid dream…” whispered Golden solemnly. “It was all a bit hard to make out but…there was something that…that, umm…” Starlight reached out a tiny hand, giving Golden a small smile as she tugged at her locks, Golden felt her chest warming at the little glowworm, and nuzzled her cheek against hers. “I probably should-oh…wait! I left my journal downstairs!” Holding Starlight close, Golden stepped out of her room and into the hallway, she began to run fast, hoping to reach where she had left her dream journal in time, before bumping into something, or someone enough to stumble backwards, almost hitting the walls and falling back against them. “Hey! Slow down, speedy!” Oswald cried, whose little nightcap had slipped off of his head as he rubbed at it. “Where’s the fire?” Golden clung to Starlight, hoping she didn’t get hurt in the collision, opening her eyes, she saw the rather grumpy looking and feisty rabbit glaring down at her, a regular occurrence on an early morning. “Ohh, Oswald?” said Golden, her blurry vision starting to fix itself. “I’m sorry! I didn’t see you, and I was trying to…to…come down for breakfast…” She trailed off a little, looking down at Starlight, who looked back with sincere, trusting eyes. Oswald sighed and rolled his little black eyes, offering Golden a hand to help her back up. “The broomies are getting breakfast started.” He told her. “Dad will be down soon, but he’s in the library. If you wanna get a pastry before Scout does, I suggest you get your butt down to the kitchen and get first place!” Golden frowned, shaking her head softly as she strolled past Oswald, clearly not amused by the way he was talking, she was going to tell the broomies to fix him at least five cups of coffee to cure that attitude. “Yeeeees brother…” she sighed sarcastically, stomping her feet a little as she went down the stairs and heading straight to the kitchen. Unbeknownst to Golden, Oswald had in fact overheard her and Starlight having their little chat, and felt a little concerned, her vivid dreams were never a good thing…Hopping through the hall a little, Oswald rapped his knuckles on Julius’s door, and then Mickey’s, hoping the two were both awake and up. “Come on, you two!” he called out to them. “The sun is up and breakfast will be ready in five!” Slowly, yet surely, Mickey and Julius emerged from their bedrooms, Julius’s fur was all messy, and he still looked half asleep. Mickey was carrying LinaBell in his arms, and a small celestial themed comfort blanket, he appeared more awake than his oldest brother and smiled as he greeted the two. “Good morning Oswald! And you too, Julius!” He giggled, Julius merely mewed sleepily as he reached for a hairbrush and started raking it through his fur, rubbing at his eyes to get more focused as the brush got slightly tangled up. “Morning Mick.” said Oswald, quickly glancing behind him to make sure no one was around, gently pulling his brothers into a corner, and putting a finger to his mouth. “You two are not gonna believe this…” He whispered, and paused momentarily before continuing. “Okay, maybe you will, but Goldie had a dream, and a pretty bad nightmare at that…” Mickey and Julius shared a glance, curiosity etched on their faces. Mickey tapped his chin, wondering what she might have dreamt about. “Did she tell ya what it was about, Ossie?” he asked, Oswald just shook his head. “Nah, I heard her and Starlight talking, she seemed…I dunno, reluctant to talk? I did hear her say it was a ‘vivid’ dream though, and you know what that means, right?” Mickey went deep into thought, a small ‘hmmm’ musing from his throat, scratching lightly at his head, he too got worried when Golden wasn’t always open about things. “Well, let's give her time.” He said brightly. “Maybe she’ll tell us when she feels ready, surely she will tell us about her dreams like she was recommended to do?” The three brothers began to walk, staying side by side as they lowered their voices a little more, just to stay out of earshot. “Hopefully…if it really scared her, she might not tell anytime soon…” said Julius, eyeing his little sister at the table, almost nervously kicking her feet as she sat waiting for her breakfast to be served. Right over everyone’s heads, Percy suddenly zipped into the room, lighting up the already bright kitchen in his light ball form. He noticed Golden looking down at the table and, despite it not being able to be seen, gave a frown and transformed, quickly giving her some jazz hands and a bright smile. “Morning Lumen!” he giggled, Golden jolting slightly out of her thought as she noticed him, Starlight clambering up onto her head and giving the light man a wave. “Oh, good morning Percy!” she tried to say enthusiastically, but it was forced, and she whipped the dream journal behind her back at the same time. “Hmm, ooh, is there something you don’t want me seeing there? Maybe a present?” he giggled, noticing the boys’ looking rather nervous and worried too, and deducing something was decidedly off. Nervously, Golden shook her head. “N-nothing, ehehe! Um…Just working on something important and I don’t want anyone seeing, that’s all! Yeah!” she lied, but it was almost as plain as the nose on her face, reminding Percy quite a bit of the Blue Fairy and Pinocchio. “Lumen…stop lying.” He raised an eyebrow, becoming serious all of a sudden as the little girl looked up at Starlight, who floated down off her head and onto the table in front of her. “You should tell Percy, Goldie. He can help you, I’m sure! He’s the best light man!” the little glowworm giggled, before squealing in surprise as Percy picked her up, balancing her on the tip of his hat, and chuckling when she slid down into his arms. “Yes, I AM the best light man! And there is nothing so bad that you can’t tell me, even if you spilled ketchup all over the master’s robes! Trust me, Mercurio’s been there, and I helped him clean it! You can tell me anything, remember?” he smiled, Golden nervously fiddling with the book behind her back, not wanting to cause trouble, especially with the announcement that finals were coming up, the poor kid had so much on her mind! Defeated, she sighed and handed him the book, Percy flipping through it and looking at the illustrations, and then back at her, much more serious. “Ah…this certainly is something, hmm? I understand why you were nervous to talk about it.” he smiled gently, patting her shoulder as she put her head on the table, groaning. “I…I don’t know how to explain it! It feels like I should be scared of this, like these…these people I don’t know and this…these things-!” she started breathing faster, Percy gently supporting her as she sat up and tried to control her glitch. “Now, now, Lumen, breathe with me, remember?” he smiled, taking her hand and helping her to calm her breathing, her hands ceasing their glitching as quickly as it came. “Good girl. Worrying won’t make it go away, but I really understand where you’re coming from…it certainly is rather off-putting. But! We’ve been through a lot together, as the Symphonuses, so I think we can solve this little mystery!” he smiled, Golden looking slightly hopeful at the thought, but still nervous. “I don’t know Percy…this feels really different, even to the other times…but I do appreciate it. I just don’t want anyone getting hurt because of me again…” she spoke, glum. Percy, still on her level, handed Starlight to her, and gave a small smile. “Now Lumen, you may be one to find yourself in trouble, but we are never hurt because of you, in fact, it has taken us on some interesting adventures! Remember, you were the one who rallied us all to go and get dad? Or you took us down to Atlantis with Aqua and the others? Granted, you didn’t choose to go there, but it was still an adventure!” he chuckled, Golden managing a little giggle at the good memories. “And you still remember what Aqua said about strength?” Starlight smiled, remembering how the older girl had encouraged her best friend, Golden giving an enthusiastic nod. “Of course! I won’t ever forget that, I have my Wayfinder to remind me.” she smiled, Percy giggling and picking her up, putting her on his shoulders. “Up you come! Let’s turn a frightful morning into a fantastic day, what do you say?” he chuckled, Golden nodding and putting his hat on her own head, the light man spinning round whilst holding her on his shoulders. “Wheeee!” she giggled, Starlight zipping around them and leaving a trail of purple sparkles after her. Then the broomies appeared, holding breakfast, and started clamouring that they wanted a turn, Percy jokingly frowning at them. “Atten-shun!” he smiled, all seven of them saluting. “If you want a turn on my shoulders, then I want you to make sure little Lumen has everything she likes on her plate! Hop to it!” he grinned, watching as they all dashed into action, Golden giggling at the sight. They whipped up strawberries, chocolate pancakes, waffles, pastries…she felt like she’d be the size of a house by the end of this feast. And then Percy chuckled, leaning back so she fell back, dangling down and laughing as she was held upside down. Everyone came to eat, Percy sitting next to her, and she immediately started munching, enjoying the multitudes of food she’d been given. Scout smiled down at her, and then looked at Mickey. “Hey, what do you say we whip up a composition? It’s been a while.” she grinned, the mouse nodding. “Ooh, I have just the thing, after I went stargazing yesterday! There were some amazing samples up there, I got some awesome ideas!” he grinned, Oswald downing his coffee and rolling his eyes at his nerdy siblings. “Yeah yeah, you two do that. Me and Julius are heading to the Nation! We’re gonna find some dragons!” he grinned, Julius looking slightly nervous. “I sure hope we don’t find any kitten-eating ones!” he mewed, before looking down at his phone to see he’d received a message from Fanny, blushing slightly. They’d been on a few dates, and it seemed she wanted to organise another…he wondered about taking her to a new cafe he’d found, and promptly replied. “Julius…” Yen Sid spoke, the cat sitting upright in nervousness. “What did I say about phones at the table?” he spoke, raising an eyebrow and Julius cringing slightly, putting it back in his pocket. “Sorry…” he giggled, before turning to Percy and Golden, wondering how they would spend their day. “So, what do you want to do today, Lumen?” Percy smiled, Golden finishing yet another pastry and feeling quite full. “Hmm…I think it would be nice to go see Mum.” she smiled, Percy nodding. “Oh, I have books to send with you.” Yen Sid spoke, using magic to bring them toward Percy, who took them into his arms. “Good idea! I daresay she’ll be happy to see you, she loves it when you visit!” he grinned, Golden nodding, his enthusiasm was infectious, and it was one of the things she loved about him. And after breakfast, Percy did his duty of giving each of the brooms a ride, and then they set off, Golden taking a little backpack with her, one she’d been given for her ninth birthday…her tenth was coming up soon, actually! She hoped it wouldn’t overlap with finals, who wanted to do exams on their birthday?! They walked down the path toward Mum’s home, Golden waving off Starlight, who had decided she wanted to stay with Yen Sid, planning to have a little chat with him. And so, they soon reached Sonatina’s place, and she answered with a smile.
“Golden! And Percy, good to see you both!” she said, gesturing them inside her home. “Thank you both for coming over! Would either of you like anything to eat? Or drink? I have a fresh batch of cookies just ready!” Percy’s mouth was almost watering at the thought of cookies, and nodded eagerly at Sonatina. “Oh yes please mum!” he chuckled, taking her hands in his. “Your cookies are simply the best in the world! We’d both love some, right Lumen?” he turned to the young girl, seeing her nod her head just like he did. She might have been full from her huge breakfast, but there was always room for Mum’s cookies. “Of course, of course!” Sonatina laughed, taking Percy and Golden’s hats for them as she led them into the living room. “There’s plenty to go around! And if you want, you’re free to take some home for the others too.” Golden took off her backpack, setting it down next to a big sofa chair and sitting down on it. Percy took a long, good look around the place, he had always enjoyed coming here, and felt he didn’t do that enough, but he was determined to make a visit every few weeks to visit Sonatina, and she’d always have fresh cookies ready for them. “Here you are Percy.” said Sonatina, handing him a plate of three chocolate chip and marshmallow cookies, as well as a cup of sweet tea. “Ahh thank you, Mum.” Percy said kindly, taking a seat in another one of the chairs. “You truly know how to make a guest feel at home.” Sonatina turned a little red, stifling a small laugh she went over to Golden, holding another plate of cookies. “Aww, thank you, Percy.” she blushed. “It’s been so long since I truly started having guests again in my home that…it makes me want to take care of you all and be the best host you all could ask for. Here you are, sweetie. Would you like anything to drink?” Golden took the plate of cookies, and was already taking a big bite out of one of them, it was soft and chewy and the marshmallows made it sticky. “Mmm! Yesh pleash!” she answered, “Jush water pleash mum!” Percy gave a slightly cheeky look as he lifted his eyebrow in jest, pretending to look as intimidating as Yen Sid. “Lumen…” he smirked, staring at the young girl in the eyes. “Please…don’t talk with your mouth full, it’s bad table manners! Goodness, hasn’t the master been raising you properly?” Golden continued chewing on her cookie, munching faster so she could swallow and talk back to him, smirking a little herself as she took a big gulp. “But Percy…” she giggled, “I’m not at a table! See?” She pointed out that she was simply sat in a plush chair that was clearly too big for her, with no table in sight and the plate was just in her lap. Percy gave a huff, turning back to his cup and tea and taking a defeated swig. “Don’t talk back to me, young lady!” he grunted, though he was clearly taken by Golden’s sense of humour and smiled behind his cup, though he dared not let Golden see him do so. Sonatina smiled warmly at the cosy and uplifting atmosphere, just seeing the friendly, good natured banter between the two of them made her heart swell, her eyes were a tad misty, but she fought them and filled a glass with fresh tap water for Golden, watching the young girl as she finished off her snacks. “Here Golden, some nice fresh water.” She gave the glass to her, and always felt the motherly urge to press her palm against Golden’s forehead, noticing how she looked slightly pale, and very tired once she was up close. “Are you feeling alright, dear?” she asked her. “You look rather peaky, are you eating and sleeping enough?” Golden wasn’t sure if she wanted the kind of lecture only a mother could give when it came to her health, and smiled quickly while holding up her free hand, waving it a little to tone Sonatina down. “No no I’m fine!” she stated, widening her eyes to look less sleepy, it wasn’t helping. “I just…umm, y’know I uh…” Sonatina’s face grew more concerned at each word and stutter that came out of Golden’s mouth, Percy cleared his throat, standing up from the chair with his now finished plate and cup, sending them over to the sink with a bit of levitation sorcery. “It’s just a rough morning for her.” he explained gently. “Nightmares, pffft! Who needs them, that’s what I say! But it’s just one of those days, eh Golden?” Golden shrank a little bit in the chair, knowing that Percy had seen the illustrations, his casual tone and lack of worry in his voice wasn’t making her feel better about the situation, or the nightmare that still replayed in her head. “You could say thay, I guess…” she said sadly, curling up beside one of the cushions. Sonatina knew about the vivid dreams Golden had, they either happened frequently or once every few weeks, and this particular one this morning really seemed to have shaken her. “I see.” she said, before giving a smile and gesturing over to the bookshelf, and magically summoning a small beanbag next to it as a seat. “Golden, why don’t you read something? That’ll surely cheer you up, I have so many books! And I still have lots from when Scout was little, I didn’t have it in me to throw them away…haha!” She sighed softly, thinking back to those days, and looking at the old, slightly faded photo on the fireplace of her and Scout, how things seemed so wonderful and happy, even if they were small and it was just the two of them. Now the family had grown even bigger, Sonatina had a father figure in Yen Sid, several little ones she could be a mother to and that they’d call her Mum in return, and Scout had gained a few more siblings, which was something Sonatina had always wanted but was never able to do. She placed her hands on her chest, wondering what she did to deserve such a big, wonderful family. “Mum?” She felt a tug on her dress, Golden was staring up at her, wondering why she wasn’t moving and was just staring at the ceiling. “Oh goodness me, haha!” Sonatina laughed, feeling a little embarrassed she let her mind become so distracted. “Sorry Golden, I was just…thinking of the past. It really does feel like a long time ago.” Percy snickered from behind her, his cheekiness still in control of him at this moment. “More like…you were thinking out loud.” he chuckled behind his hand. “I heard you!” Golden giggled at him, and reached into her backpack, taking out several heavy books and a couple of tomes, handing them to Sonatina who took them with ease, as if they were lightweights. “Thanks Mum, for the books!” Golden heaved, putting her strength into her back and shoulders to lift the books. “Dad said…to give these…back to you! Phew…hehe! And I can read any book I like?” Mum nodded, smiling as she winked at the young girl. “Any one of them you like! Just remember to wipe your fingers, okay? You might have some grease on and that can stain the pages…I hope you enjoy what's in my collection, dear!”
The little girl did as she was told, reaching for a napkin, and then started looking at the books, remembering the first time she came in here with Mickey…Mum’s house was like a little library, and she found herself browsing. There were fairy tales, like the Nutcracker or the Princess and the Pea, stories about children going on adventures, about pirates…Golden found some old ones for children, assuming they were for Scout, and kept looking, watching Sonatina replacing the books she’d brought back, everything organised… The little girl kept looking, before finding one that caught her eye, the green and gold book she’d discovered the very first time they entered the house. She reached up for it, plucking it off the shelf. “The legend of…” she muttered, tracing her finger over the cover, the rest of the title was scratched out. “Hey mama, what’s this book?” she asked, Mum walking over and taking it, flipping through the pages, before her face changed from calm to suddenly nervous. “This isn’t supposed to be here…I thought I locked it up in the attic after I took it from Elderflower…” she mumbled, Golden looking up in a mixture of curiosity and worry. Mum bent down to her level, though, and gently took a few tendrils of the little girl’s hair into her hand, stroking it. “Well, regardless, to answer your question…this book is about a very powerful sorceress from many, many years ago. Around the time Master Grey was just becoming a master, actually.” she smiled, Golden perking up at the mention of his name. “Master Grey? Wow, that’s super old, he taught papa! And he was kinda rude sometimes, so I called him- mmmf!” she was suddenly silenced by Percy putting a light ball over her mouth, her protests loud underneath. “Ahaha, anyway, please continue Mum.” he giggled, watching Golden’s face turn red in annoyance as the adults chuckled. “Well…this powerful sorceress tried to take control of every single realm in existence, like that grand villain scheme a couple years ago. She wanted to take over Fantasia, the Disney Worlds, she even had her sights set on Neverland and Kingdom Hearts, and struck them with everything she had. There was chaos, imbalance…but a group of magical people, including Master Grey, managed to seal her away, stopping her.” she explained, Percy flicking the light down as Golden looked up in awe at the story. “So she never did anything bad again?” she asked, Mum shaking her head. “No, but it was said that her power came from her ring, which she split into nine pieces before she was defeated. These pieces were put into objects which were eventually used for pure evil…but that’s how her story ends. She’s sealed in an unknown location, forever and ever!” she smiled, ruffling Golden’s hair, who still looked a little nervous. “Oh, I see…what was her name?” she asked, innocent eyes looking up at the two adults, who glanced at each other for a moment. “Vor.” they both finally said, Percy knowing the legend from Yen Sid and other members of the council, and Mum holding the book, pointing at a page with the name inside. “V…Vor?” Golden stuttered back, the name sending chills running down her spine, though the reason for this was unknown. She looked up at Percy, who gently put an arm around her. “Gives you chills, eh Lumen? It’s been a long time since I’ve heard that name, but Uncle Ambrose and Yen Sid used to tell that story at council meetings, they would tell us all about how Master Grey fought her himself! A part of me always thought they were exaggerating, but it was Grey, hehe!” he chuckled, Golden feeling her mind racing with all this new information…could those items…no, they couldn’t be the ones from her dream, surely?! She felt herself grow pale, Mum noticing, and she frowned slightly, bending down like Percy toward the little girl. “Oh Golden, don’t worry! It’s an ancient, ancient story, and hundreds of years in the past. Those items don’t matter anymore, and Vor is sealed away somewhere.” she smiled, hoping to placate the girl’s anxiety, but it clearly wasn’t working. “Yes Mum, I doubt we’ll hear from that old vomit-coloured hag ever again!” he chuckled, “she’s probably in her prison like “let me out!!”, silly old witch!” he laughed, Golden giggling as he imitated her voice, giving it a croaky, high-pitched sound that made the little girl smile. Mum, glad to see her daughter looking brighter, looked down at the book in her hand, and smiled slightly. “Certainly not! But I think you’re quite stressed, sweetheart, and this really isn’t helping.” she shrugged, putting the book on a high shelf gently. “Don’t worry your little mind, I’ll put that somewhere safe later. Now, I want you two to relax.” she smiled, plucking off a different story instead for the little girl to read, a story about a vain queen and her daughter, and a hero and a sea monster… meanwhile, Mum and Percy were chatting together. “The therapy sessions are still going well, Percy?” she smiled, Percy nodding enthusiastically. “Oh yes! It’s nice for Lumen and I to get everything off our chests, and sometimes our therapist even gives us little assignments, like get better homework! Hehe!” he chuckled, thinking back to some of their assignments. “For one, she asked us to create a collage of things that mean a lot to us, and then explain each one, but only using magazines and other random images! And in another, we did some meditation together, and we also made a pie chart of our emotions throughout the week…” he smiled, Sonatina giving a bright smile too at the thought of how well the sessions were going. She reached out and gently took his hand, giving him a soft smile. “I’m so glad it’s going well. And you two seem so much happier.” she spoke, the two continued to talk together, and they ended up spending the entire day with Sonatina, Golden going through every book on stars and their stories, still hungry for more books, and Percy talking up a storm, his voice might’ve run away if he wasn’t careful!
Peeking up from one of the books, which was about a boy and a fox on the moon, Golden spoke up a little as Mum and Percy paused from their talk. “Mama?” she called out. “Would you mind if I…took some more books back with me? I’m really enjoying this one!” Mum smiled, nodding as she turned her head toward the littlest of the family, she knew they’d appeal as much to her as they did for Scout many years ago. “Of course!” She answered cheerfully. “Take as many as you want, I have plenty! You must have a few favourites, don’t you?” Percy chuckled, eyeing Golden as she packed away the book she was reading, seemingly much better in her mood now that she wasn’t thinking about the story of Vor. “Hehe, that does remind me of a certain princess…” he thought in amusement. Checking the clock, it was almost 5:30 and the rain would soon be setting in until nightfall, he got up from his chair and straightened up his robes. “Goodness, that time already,” he said. “I think we best make our way back, Mum. But thank you so much for having us over! It’s been a pleasure talking!” Mum smiled, standing up as well as she went to bring Percy and Golden their hats, humorously placing Percy’s on his head instead of giving it to him, making him chuckle. “Ahh, very handsome!” he grinned. “Lumen, hurry now! We don’t want to get wet before dinner!” Golden had quickly packed away a few books, eagerly putting her backpack over her shoulders as she raced in, almost tripping on the threshold. “I’m coming!” she cried, looking a little beat from putting the books away, as there had been so many of them. “Sorry, hehe! Mama, your whole house is like a library!” This made Mum laugh, playfully ruffling Golden’s soft hair before putting her hat on, and making sure her robe was properly fastened so she wouldn’t be cold on the way. “Well, I always loved to read, and so did Scout, so it became one of our biggest hobbies, aside from music and drawing! Oh, and don’t forget, I put some of the cookies into this bag for you, there should be enough for you all.” Percy took the bag, slipping it into a magical pocket he had inside his robes which extended as far as possible, it was like a little dimension, he said he was inspired by one Yen Sid had supposedly had in his beard. “Mum, I swear…your cookies are HEAVEN!” he sighed happily, wanting to taste another already. “How do you get them to be soooo good?! I’ll admit, I’ve always had a fondness for cooking and baking, maybe you could let me in on your little recipe?” Mum smiled, placing a little kiss on Percy’s cheek for his kindness, making him blush brightly. “You’re too kind, Percy. I might be down tomorrow, so I’ll see you then and we can bake more, and I’ll show you how my cookies are done! And Golden, make sure you eat and drink plenty, get an early night and no staying up late! You hear me?” Golden pulled down the brim of her hat to hide the fact she was rolling her eyes. “Yes muuum…sheeshed, I’ll be fine. And thank you for the books! I’ll see you later!” They all shared a laugh, and said their goodbyes as they waved goodbye. Despite Mum’s rather serious lecture and tone of voice, it was clear she cared very deeply for Golden’s well-being, as well as Percy’s and was just looking out for them. She was like Yen Sid in a way with how serious yet loving she was, but definitely not as intimidating! Percy and Golden trundled through the woods, holding hands as the brisk air of the forest gave them a sense of calm and tranquillity. They got to town, passing through as some of the markets were beginning to open for the evening, it looked really pretty at this time of the day. “You alright, Lumen?” Percy asked, prompting the young girl to snap out of her thoughts suddenly, looking up at the light man. “Ohh? Oh yeah!” she said, smiling softly. “I was just looking at all the beautiful stalls with their lights! It’s nice!” Percy nodded, it definitely was beautiful and wondrous, but there was something else that he couldn’t help noticing about her. “I see. It’s just…you’ve been quiet since we started walking home, you’re not feeling worried, or sick are you?” Golden shook her head, gripping tightly onto his hand while her other was holding onto the strap of her backpack. “No, I’m not worried, or feeling sick…I just don’t really have much to say, aside from the fact those cookies were delicious and I’m looking forward to reading before bed!” Seeing her smile, Percy felt a little more at ease, she looked rather shaken earlier after hearing that story, but it seemed like she was over the worst of it, still he felt he ought to talk to Yen Sid later. Seeing the rain beginning to fall, there were just a few steps away from the house. “Aha! There it is. Race you, Lumen!” They both quickly picked up the pace, running up to the door of the house and opening the door that had been left unlocked for them. They both laughed, narrowly missing the rain as it began to pour. Golden kicked off her shoes and darted upstairs to her room, closing the door behind her. Taking a big, deep breath, she slowly made her way to the bed, taking off her backpack. She felt her anxiety rise as she unbuttoned the top, letting some of the books fall out onto the duvet. There were five little children’s books, all she had read earlier, and the book on Vor, which gave her chills again as she looked at the cover. “I hope mama won’t be mad at me…” she whispered, getting up onto her bed and sitting down with the books. “It’s just…I had to! It can’t be a coincidence…good thing that this glitch comes in handy, otherwise I wouldn’t have gotten this…I think I should investigate this more.”
Yen Sid spent the remainder of the day in the library, piles of books scattered around the table and several of them already opened. He had grown a little tired, but was determined to help his daughter. He recalled her shaking and yelling this morning, how scared and lost she looked, and those illustrations…those drawings had some disturbing elements behind them, even despite Golden trying to hide the fact the dream she had was terrifying, and he wasn’t ready to let it go. Starlight flew down to the library, offering him a mug of hot chocolate every few hours as he read over his books. She noticed that he had a particular page opened up each time she visited, and had read over several of the words, many of which stood out to her, and they were unnerving. “The Wicked Nine…” she asked, lowering herself to sit on Yen Sid’s shoulder. “Nine items…that were used for pure evil?” She huddled behind his hair, feeling a cold shiver as she read the words out loud. Yen Sid put his hand on her tiny ones, giving a small comfort to the glowworm. “Yes Starlight,” he said. “Do you…remember what you saw in Golden’s dream journal? As much as I don’t want to admit it, they are an exact match to these items.” Starlight went back to remember the drawings of those items, earlier at breakfast when Percy went through the journal. She found them rather odd and all different at first, seeing them now made her realise why Golden was so reluctant to tell her about her dream. “But…Yen Sid…?” Starlight murmured softly, crawling onto his palm as he opened it for her, letting her nuzzle against his hand as he held her gently in his arms. “Why would Golden dream about these? The book…it says they were sealed away. We saw those villains disappear into the light realm! And Golden took care of that nasty witch, that vile queen with the pins, the big fat cat, and…that scary man with the whip! So…so there’s no way that they could come back and use those scary looking items again, could they?” Yen Sid faced down toward the tiny glowworm, smiling just enough that it could be seen up close. He took note of Starlight’s childlike features, rocking her back and forth as his finger softly caressed her cheek. “Well, little one…” he sighed, feeling a little ashamed he had to tell her the truth, wishing he had a more light hearted answer. “Normally, one wouldn’t be able to, but in this case…it takes a tremendous amount of power. Opening gateways is hard, but to collect each of these items…from their respective villains? Heh, that would be painstaking. Especially since there are some items here that have long been lost to time…I wouldn’t even know where to find them if I looked.” Starlight gave a nod of agreement, she wouldn’t want to either. She glanced over at the page again, some of them looked a little ordinary to be evil, such as the key and the necklace. Being curious, Starlight wanted to know more, and why they were so significant enough to have a dedicated history page. “It seems strange to me.” she began. “Why would anyone even try to collect the Wicked Nine anyway? They are just objects, aren’t they?” Yen Sid considered her question, and the answer was a harsh one. He thought back, it was all such a long time ago. “Hmmm, well…there is a reason.” he started with his explanation. “If you want to collect all of the Wicked Nine, and you also allow yourself to be harnessed as a vessel, by the imprisoned witch known by many as Vor, you could become the embodiment of evil itself…!” Starlight let out a yelp of fear, diving from Yen Sid’s arms to his beard and burying herself inside, Yen Sid understood her anxiousness, but also chuckled at her endearing actions. “Regardless,” he continued. “we just have to ensure our villains are safely stored in the light realm with no means of escaping. And even if you get one or maybe two of the items, that still wouldn’t be enough. You need all nine of these items, and we’ve got many of them trapped forever.” Starlight poked her head out from inside his beard, pushing her hat up from hiding her eyes. She noticed his smile, and returned it with a gentle nod. “Hmm, okay. Hearing that, I do kinda feel better!” she said sheepishly as she crawled back into his arms. “Hehe, it’s all in the past, right? No more scary stuff with evil items and witches!” Yen Sid chuckled lightly, having agreed fully with the little glowworm, pleased to see she was feeling cheered up and she didn’t have to feel scared. Standing up, the two of them heard the doors to the house open and close again, their signal to know that Percy and Golden were home. And not even five seconds later…
“Master!! We’re home! How was your day?” Percy zipped into the library, spinning enthusiastically around his dad’s head, Yen Sid chuckling as Starlight’s hat was whipped around by the wind Percy created. He transformed back into a man, waving at both of them, and then stared down at the books on the table. “Looks like you two have been knocking out pages by the dozen! All these books…” he smiled, taking a look at one of them for a moment, before putting it back down again. “You’re not the only one who’s been reading either! Lumen!! Come down, let’s tell dad all about the day we had!” he called, Golden hearing his voice from her room and tucking the borrowed books back into her bag, and then her bag under the bed, where it could be hidden. She felt a little nervous about leaving the book alone, so she picked up Scout’s tiger. “If this moves, roar really loud at it, okay?” she whispered, making the tiger nod and salute with its paw. She put it down in front of the closed bag, and then ran downstairs, pushing open the door to the library and walking inside, Percy giving her a big smile. “We spent all day with Mum, right Goldie?” he grinned, Starlight immediately rushing over and landing on Golden’s head, frizzing up her hair. “Yeah, I was reading all these books about stars…” she chuckled, trying to ignore the fact she’d done something pretty bad by stealing from Mum…hopefully she’d be forgiven, but then again, Mum didn’t like liars…she felt her stomach turn slightly, and tugged at her robe sleeve, trying to swallow her fears. “Oooh, what books?” Starlight giggled, flipping down so she was upside down in front of Golden’s face. “Well…one about a vain queen and a sea monster, and another about a boy and a fox on the moon…and there was also one about a swan, and another about 12 trials…” she smiled, Starlight recognizing all the stories and going starry-eyed. “Well today, me and Yen Sid were reading too! Well, I was only half-reading, most of the time I was making him hot chocolate and playing tag with the broomies!” Starlight giggled, before turning to Yen Sid, who looked a little serious. “I was looking into some old books. I might have found the source of some of your worries, little one.” he smiled down at Golden, turning one of the books to face her, depicting the Wicked Nine. “What are those…?” she asked, now a little nervous, they were a perfect match. “They’re these nine items used by some naughty villains in the past! But they don’t matter now, because you went ‘Wham! Bam! Pow!’ with magic and you defeated them!” Starlight giggled, Golden feeling one of her hands glitching in anxiety, trying to suppress it. “Oh…um, I actually have a bit of a headache now…I might go rest, okay?” she mumbled, Starlight jumping off her head and hoping she hadn’t aggravated it. “Oh, okay, see you later?” Starlight tried, but Golden just walked off without another word, and they heard the click of her lock soon after. “That’s odd…normally she tells me if something’s wrong…” Starlight sighed, flopping down onto Yen Sid’s shoulder, who gently patted her back. “Hmm…well come to think of it, she did seem particularly distressed by a story today. You know, that story of Vor and the Wicked Nine, from before even your time, master?” Percy mused, Yen Sid raising an eyebrow. “If you recall, she did draw them in her journal, alongside some other figures…Sora, another girl…and me, I believe.” the old sorcerer replied. Percy put a hand to his chin in thought. “This may be a stretch, but could it be that she’s hiding it from us out of fear? If you are involved, master, perhaps she doesn’t want you to know so that she can prevent anything bad?” he pondered, Starlight groaning. “Ugh! But that only makes me want to know more! Golden never keeps secrets from me!” she cried, Percy chuckling slightly and opening his arms, allowing her to fly into them and cuddle him. “I daresay cuddlebug, but I know we’ll get our answers in due time. For now…let’s hope she behaves herself and doesn’t do anything impulsive. We’ll keep an eye on her.” he smiled, Starlight nodding and flying off, hoping to comfort her best friend and keep her safe from any more frightening dreams.
In Golden’s room, she found herself scouring the book again and again, but there was no information. Just as Mum had said, the story ended with Vor trapped in an unknown location, and the Wicked Nine scattered, but that didn’t appease the little girl’s fears. “Where is that witch?! And all those items…I’d better destroy them all so that evil lady can’t do anything!” she fretted, looking down at her dream journal, and then at an illustration of Vor. Though her own drawing was rather simplistic, the woman in her dream was a definite match…she sighed, biting her lip at the thought of facing such a formidable foe, but…she had to protect the others. She was suddenly startled by a tap at the window, quickly kicking the books under her bed, out of sight, and shakily peeked behind the curtain, heart racing…but it was only Starlight. She unlocked the latch despite her quivering hands, and Starlight waved as she pushed the window ajar slightly. “Can I come in, Goldie?” she smiled, Golden wordlessly nodding and closing the window again as Starlight zipped through, landing on the hammock above Golden’s bed, swinging back and forth. “Why did you lock the door?” she asked, Golden pulling her knees up onto the bed and looking glumly up at her. “I just…had a bit of a headache. I wanted to relax…” she mumbled, Starlight flying down and sitting on her knees, reaching out a hand to touch her head…she wasn’t too warm, but she didn’t look okay, which worried the little glowworm. “There’s something you’re not telling me. Did you not have a good time at Mum’s? Percy said you looked a little stressed.” she whispered, Golden looking away slightly, she hated keeping secrets from Starlight. “I…I just…I didn’t like this story she told me about. You could say it kinda hit a nerve, it reminded me of a lot of bad things…” she admitted, Starlight nodding for her to continue. “I’m worried something really bad might happen, but I feel like I know what I should do to stop it… I just don’t know if I can…” she shrugged, Starlight gently putting her little arms around Golden’s neck, giving her a reassuring hug. “Trust me, I know you always try to do the right thing. And I believe in you the whole way, okay?” Starlight whispered, Golden feeling a lump in her throat at those words, little tears forming in her eyes as she returned the hug. “It’s…It’s just so scary…” she whispered, sniffling slightly as she held her best friend, not wanting to tell her the whole truth, but Golden had always held her close when she was scared…when she was little, she would hide behind her slightly, or burrow under the covers holding her, and she felt that Starlight would always keep her safe, no matter what. “Goldie, I promise it’ll be okay. You don’t have to face things alone, ever. And tonight, I’ll fly around the moon and stars, but I’ll come right back, okay? You won’t be on your own, not tonight, or ever again.” she smiled, drawing back from the hug and giving her best friend a kiss on the cheek…Golden wiping her eyes and nodding, gently stroking a hand down Starlight’s cheek, and then she opened the window for her, allowing her best friend to fly off, the two waving at each other as she departed. The rain had stopped, clouds clearing to reveal a beautiful night sky, and the moon. Golden looked up at it, seeing it constantly through her window, it was unchanging, it was always there…just like her family. She sighed, hearing her name called for dinner, and checked her tiger was still on guard…though she knew it was a little silly, the idea of the book having eyes on it, that comforted her a little.
She walked downstairs slowly, taking her seat at the table and looking down at her curry and rice, prodding it with her fork slightly. Scout suddenly spoke up, putting an arm around Mickey. “Dad, you’ll never believe it, but our rhythm was on point today! The beat flowed so well with the instruments, and the samples Mickey grabbed for us, oh you guys gotta hear it after dinner!” she chuckled, Mickey nodding enthusiastically. “It was so much fun! I haven’t made a song in a while, I’ve mostly been working on my star magic, haha, but I’m so glad I got to do it with you, Scout! I sure hope we can do it again!” he grinned, Scout nodding and gently rubbing his head. “Of course! I love it when we compose together, and hey, isn’t a big part of finals the musical notation?” she winked, Yen Sid realising she was trying to suss out the exams. He chuckled slightly, raising his eyebrow, and Golden realised she’d practically forgotten about finals amid the chaos. “Who knows? But a very strict examiner will be watching your performance. The exam might not be an exam, that’s up to me really. As long as I can prove to the council that you are competent sorcerers, that’s when you graduate from apprenticeship.” he explained, the children nodding and thinking, wondering what type of exams they would have. Percy raised his hand, a cheery smile on his face. “When I was a boy, we didn’t do a formal exam, but I think the cohort before us did. We had to duel the master, would you believe?! He asked us to show our capabilities in combat, and I’d perfected my light tentacles by then, so I knocked him over! Luckily he was okay, but he tested us physically!” he explained, Yen Sid smiling at the memory, and the subsequent graduation ceremony that had followed. “Magic is a complex thing. It tests mind, body, even soul at times, and it requires a great deal of skill in many areas. In a way, every day you demonstrate a spell, that is an exam of its own. You need to exert yourself physically in the correct way, focus your mind, and channel the magic of your soul into yourself…exams aren’t just about proving you are a sorcerer, they’re a culmination of all that you’ve learned. If you can write the correct way to hold your hands during a scroll-opening spell, or successfully knock me down with magic, you prove that your three fundamentals are working in conjunction with your magical training, no matter the form the exam takes. And that is how we assess sorcery.” he explained, the apprentices all looking at each other in curiosity and wonder at his words. Oswald gave a smile. “That’s…actually kinda cool! It’s like you’re proving you know stuff even without having to actually demonstrate it in all the different ways!” he smiled, Yen Sid nodding approvingly. “Oh, how was the Nation, boys?” he chuckled, Oswald grinning widely and tapping Julius, who was munching his curry and looked up in slight surprise. “It was PACKED!! We saw SEVEN dragons, they all soared overhead, there was even a mama and her baby! It was so amazing, I got some videos on my camera!” he beamed, pulling it out of his pocket and showing Yen Sid some of the footage, he smiled and turned to Julius, who nodded. “I wish you could’ve been there Golden, it was so cool! Huh, Golden?” he turned, she wasn’t even looking at him, just pushing the food in her bowl around, looking rather melancholy. “Oh, huh?!” she suddenly startled, looking apologetically at Julius. “Sorry, um…headache, hehe. That sounds fun though…” she smiled, Julius giving her a smile to indicate it was fine and gently taking her hand. “Aren’t you hungry, Goldie? The curry’s really nice, but you’ve barely touched your rice, are you trying to make a picture or something?” he giggled, Golden looking down and realising she’d arranged her rice into nine little piles, quickly disrupting them with her fork in annoyance, squishing them. “I’m just taking my time…but I should probably get some water before bed to cool off, I think that’ll help…” she sighed, rubbing her eyes and starting to eat her food properly.
The clock struck 8, everyone going back to talking and eating, and when they were done they decided to start settling for the night, the boys all changing into their pyjamas and Scout letting her hair down, brushing it with a comb and wondering if Golden might like her to do her hair too, since she found it relaxing. She noticed her little sister across the hall in her room, seeming quite busy and buried in some books, and then watched her run out, toward the main area. Scout noticed the tiger on her bed and smiled…she’d got for her that so long ago, and was glad Golden still loved it, and went back to brushing her hair, feeling a little nostalgic as she turned to an old page of her journal, the very first day she’d met Golden…and the little illustration she’d drawn. She traced her finger over the image, and softly smiled. She loved her little sister more than anything. Meanwhile, Golden crept into the library, noticing Yen Sid was on the sofa with Mickey and Julius, Oswald showing them the videos he’d taken of the Nation. She crept toward the table, where he’d laid out all his books, and picked up the one about the Wicked Nine, hoping he wouldn’t notice it was gone. She took a deep breath, hoping it didn’t count as stealing if it was her own house…but then again, she’d taken something from Mum already. She felt a pang of guilt, but remembered what Starlight had said…she really WAS trying to do what was right, she didn’t know any other way… she ran upstairs, and pulled the two books onto her bed, closing the door with magic. She grabbed her journal, writing a list of all the items, and drawing little illustrations to match…some she didn’t recognize at all. She sighed, picking up the tiger, and held it in her arms. “I don’t want dad or anyone else to get hurt…I know I’m meant to tell them when I’m scared or sad, but this feels really different, I think I want to do this on my own. I’m the one who can see the future, so it’s something I have to deal with…” she sighed, remembering the previous times that her future-sight had led to trouble. She wondered about travelling, since she wanted to find these items and destroy them all, but her glitches could only get her so far, she’d have to use the muse… She sighed, becoming resolute, and started packing her backpack, grabbing some pink pyjamas decorated with lotuses and little illustrations of windows and swirls, and folded them into her bag. She also packed a few other robes and clothes, a hat, scarf, and gloves in case it got cold, and some stationary for her journal. She then crept downstairs, careful to stay unnoticed, taking some food and filling up a bottle of water in the kitchen. She’d read about camping and tried to use that basis to guess what she should bring, before staring at the photos on her bedside table. She picked up the two from the theatre, the first one of herself alone, and then of everyone else…and then she stared at the beautiful, ever-expanding picture from Christmas, which had changed to include the Wayfinders, Nothing Reef gang, Xion and Naminé… she stared at it for a moment, at everyone in that beautiful frame, and sighed. “I promise… I won’t let anything bad happen.” she whispered, glitching up to the observatory and taking the muse. She took her trainee muse and wand and stuffed them into her bag- though her own muse was puny and couldn’t take her far, it still held magical energy from the song inside, and thus wasn’t entirely useless. She put the backpack by the door to her room, kissing her plushies goodbye, and leaving the tiger in charge, warning him not to break anything. She decided she needed to spend time with her family before she left, walking downstairs. She knew that destroying all those items would ultimately help everyone, and make sure nothing happened to those she loved…and them staying away would be better. She took a deep breath, and poked her head into the living room. “Hey…um, my headache cleared up. Do you want to play a game together?” she smiled, everyone nodding and Percy starting up a game of hide and seek. They played for a few rounds, before Golden took her chance and went up to her room, grabbing her backpack and glitching away, running away and ready to start this quest. The muse activated in a flash of light, taking her far, toward wherever she needed to go. Even though she wasn’t sure of the destination, she trusted the muse, but felt her eyes burning with regretful tears at the thought of leaving her family, wishing she could have told them, but the stakes were far too high. Where she ended up, however, was a whole other matter. She was far from the castle, and everyone she loved, at least for now, and found herself on a snowy mountain, where it was dark and cold. There was a cabin ahead, the girl stumbling toward it in the low light, clutching the straps of her backpack and hoping to take shelter there. She peeked through the windows, but nobody was inside, it looked long abandoned, but was in relatively good shape despite the weather. She glitched inside, putting down her backpack and looking around, there was a sofa, with a worn blanket and pillow atop it, a beanbag in the corner, some rustic tools, and a fireplace with a rug, the girl using magic to light a fire. She wondered if she should be happy, since now everyone would be fine, but she also worried about falling asleep, not wanting to see those awful visions again. She stared at the flickering flames, lying down on her tummy on the rug, and reached for her journal, and a sparkly gel pen that had once belonged to Julius. She sighed, and flipped open a new page, writing “Day One” at the top, thinking she should journal absolutely everything that happened, no matter how small it was. She got to work, writing absolutely everything that had happened, and taking inventory of what was in her backpack, down to how many pens and pencils she had. She flipped to the pages before, even the writing that detailed those items felt dark, and she hoped when her quest was done that she could tear the pages out and throw them into the fire, where they belonged. She looked down at the key, frowning. “I wonder if an antique store has this…? It’s very old, and it’s bound to be easy to find, not many keys look like that…I gotta check everywhere…it could even be…under my nose…” her speech slowed as she yawned, rubbing her eyes…she imagined hot chocolate and marshmallows, and then the marshmallows became little white flowers, drifting gently down a stream…and then starting a dance…she felt herself drifting into sleep, pulling her backpack close to her chest, as if it was a plushie, and couldn’t fight it anymore, but hoped Starlight was watching over her, and would keep her safe even when they were afar. The fire began to die down, and she didn’t even have the energy to get up onto the sofa, just using a little magic to pull the pillow and blanket down to her, and finally drifted off completely, starting to dream.
“Papa…?” Her words echoed, Golden thought she was back home. Everything looked wispy, like there was steam in the air…or maybe it was mist? Regardless, Golden couldn’t see very well, she held her hands out in front of her, hoping to feel anything. She was all alone. “Papa? Percy? Oswald?!” she called out, but there wasn’t an answer from anyone. Where did everyone go? Did they leave her behind? Was the muse taking her to the cabin in the snowy mountains all but a dream? She stopped, spotting something, black figures in the mist. “Are those…oh, Scout!” Golden cried, running toward the figure she was trying to make out, but as she got closer, it seemed to evaporate into nothing, there were other figures, some smaller, some taller…she recognised three small ones as her brothers, and an even smaller one as Starlight… “Hey!! Guys, it’s Golden! Can you hear me?” Silence… the silence was so great, it could be cut with a sword, a…sword? “Huh?” The girl turned, behind her was the tallest of the dark figures, she knew exactly who it was, but something made her feel very uneasy, the tall figure was not alone. “Dad…?” Golden whispered nervously. “W-who is that…behind you?” The figure did not respond, nor did it move. The one behind however, withdrew something from behind it’s back, it was the sword no one could mistake. Oh no, it was happening again. “No! STOP!!” Golden yelled, she tried to run, but it felt like her feet were stuck in quicksand, she wasn’t getting any closer, but the armed figure was moving closer to Yen Sid, sword at the ready. “Wait!! Please don’t!! PL-” Golden’s voice left her as the armed figured turned its head toward her, at an almost lightning face speed, it had eyes, eyes that glared back, purple eyes that pierced her very soul, Golden felt so scared, she could feel the fear from those staring eyes, the fear of death.
“AHHHH!!!” Golden shot up from the floor, her forehead sweaty and her hair sticking up. Her heart was racing in her chest, threatening to come out, she steadied herself, keeping her hands closed over her beating heart, gasping for breath as she tried to avoid an oncoming panic attack. “That…same dream…” she uttered, wiping away a stray tear from her eye. She grunted, already feeling fed up. She took her backpack into her arms, putting her head down into it as she focused on breathing, and soon she was steady again, opening her journal and colouring the witch’s eyes in purple. Though her hands shook, she reached inside her bag and pulled out some food, walking toward the window as she ate, and noticed the sun was rising. She pulled the backpack onto her back, wondering where to head first, since the muse had brought her here, but she wasn’t sure where any of the items would be…she found herself walking aimlessly through the forest around the cabin, hoping to find something, or someone. She suddenly tripped on a loose stone, skinning her knee and falling face-first into the snow, which was luckily soft, but cold all the same. The sound, however, attracted the attention of two nearby people…a girl wearing brown, and a boy with spiked hair. They moved toward her, the girl bending down. “Are you alright, little one?” she smiled, holding out her hand. Golden nearly gasped, realising who was in front of her, and took her hand, allowing the girl to help her up. The boy noticed she was bleeding slightly, and summoned his keyblade, casting Cure. Instantly, her wound disappeared, she smiled at him, he was just as kind as Yen Sid had said, and she didn’t have it in her to tell him that she could’ve done that herself with magic. She noticed several items had fallen out of her backpack, the girl taking them into her arms and starting to put them back, the boy staring inquisitively at a page that her journal had flipped to. “Hey, Prisma…look, are those the Wicked Nine?” he pointed down at the book, Golden nodding and raising an eyebrow. “Oh gee, a kindred spirit! I can’t believe it, are you trying to collect them too?” the girl, evidently called Prisma, asked. “Yes, and destroy them!” the small girl answered, Prisma nodding and holding out her hand to shake. “You can travel with us then, if you’d like! We can work together, like a team!” she giggled, Golden nodding, and then looking toward the boy, who gave her a smile. “So your name is Prisma…? That must make you Sora, then.” She whispered, looking shyly at the boy. He gave a grin, and nodded down at her. “Yep, I’m Sora. Nice to meet you, kid.” he held out his hand to shake, she took it, but it almost felt strange to shake, but she chalked it up to his armour. She took the journal into her hands again, feeling as if she could trust these two, especially due to them appearing in her dream as helpful allies, and gave a smile. “My name is Golden Symphonus…it’s really nice to meet you both!” she giggled, both of them glancing at each other momentarily, before giving her bright smiles. “Good to meet you too, kid. Come on, where should we start?” Sora smiled, Golden thinking and tracing her hand over some of the items, remembering the fight where they’d sent the villains to the light realm. “Hmm…well I was thinking we could head to the light realm…I know some of the villains are stuck there, so we could try and talk to them…I hope they won’t fight me, though.” she fretted, Prisma putting a reassuring hand on her shoulder, as the locket sparkled in the sunlight. “Maybe you could…try to negotiate? Perhaps you’ll have something they’d want in return for the object?” she wondered, pointing down at the girl’s bag. Golden was largely unconvinced, though, and considered…she only really had her heart or hat as viable options, the muse…but she couldn’t give any of those away. “I don’t think that’s likely, Miss Prisma…but…we could try?” she shrugged, Prisma nodding eagerly. “Well, if her way fails, which it just might, you’re up kid!” Sora grinned, winking down at her, she couldn’t help but giggle, he seemed funny. She took the muse into her hands, opening a gateway to the light realm, and the two held her shoulders, transported through and into the glowing, beautiful environment. Time to seek out the first four, if Golden’s hypothesis was correct, she’d find Jafar’s staff, Maleficent’s staff, Ursula’s necklace and the Evil Queen’s crown and heart box. Not that Golden particularly liked that last one, having bad memories of that uncomfortable prison, but at the very least it would soon be destroyed…she took a deep breath, and they began walking, searching for the first items they needed.
The light realm was warm, welcoming, like a beautiful garden. Everything was made from pure light, a complete opposite to the feeling of being held prisoner by villains in an old fortress. Inside the realm, everything looked like a landscape, mountains, trees, a vast sky as far as the eye could see, all in bright, varying colours and shades of white. Golden already felt a bit stumped, where would they look first? The trio marched forward, with Golden slowly taking the lead as she held onto the muse, looking at it, she wondered if her family were still looking for her in a game of hide and seek, it pained her to think about it. Swallowing her guilt, she trudged on, the quest came first, she had to finish it at all costs, and then everyone would be safe at last, especially Yen Sid…why was he the target? It was usually her, and something morbid inside her told her it should be her instead. “Soooo…any ideas on our first item? Hmm?” asked Prisma, strutting a little ahead to walk beside Golden. The young girl felt uncertain, trying to shift the weight of her thoughts of her family from her mind, continuing on with the muse, hoping for it to pick up a signal for them. “Um…hmmm, maybe…” Golden hummed, thinking out loudly amidst the wind as it approached them. “I don’t know where or which item we will find first, but maybe, we’ll find something if we just go over those hills. Let’s keep walking!” They all walked briskly, it was a nice leisurely walk despite everything, perhaps it was the atmosphere and ambiance of the realm. The light was beating on their heads, but it was lightweight and calming, which fitted the place very well. The muse began to shake in Golden’s hands, making a chiming sound as they walked. Golden stopped, clutching onto the muse in case it shook enough to fall out of her hand. “Cave!” cried Prisma, pointing to their left. “What?!” said Golden, suddenly startled by Prisma’s voice that she wasn’t used to hearing yet. Upon turning, there was indeed a cave. Golden felt a shiver down her spine, and it wasn’t from the cool breeze. She knew there would be one or two villains lurking inside, who might ambush them once inside. But Golden took a deep breath, trying to remind herself that she was almost a graduate, almost ready to finish her apprenticeship…she needed to believe she was powerful enough like her father, but she struggled to find that strength. Knowing Sora was with her and Prisma, who was a known keyblade wielder and a skilled user of it, if there was trouble, he’d be one of the first to fight back and help. “Are you gonna lead the way, Golden?” asked Sora, giving the girl a small pat on the back in encouragement. She nodded, stepping forward and into the cave entrance, turning back to look at Prisma. “Be careful Prisma.” she told her quietly. “There’s some…wicked villains I’ve faced before in here.” She noted how the muse began to shake more, she slipped it back into her backpack, now choosing to just move forward, she felt a chill walking through the cave with Sora and Prisma, wondering which villain was lurking behind these cave walls, which glittered with crystals and dripped with residue from the cold outside. “I’m not afraid,” said Prisma bravely. “Honestly, I’m not afraid of anything!” Golden gave a little smirk, seeing the sight of the excitable Prisma made her feel less tense about the situation, even as the cave grew deeper and deeper, yet brighter thanks to the crystals that illuminated the path, almost like streetlights. They reminded Golden of Percy, she lowered her eyes down to the ground as her hands clutched tightly at her backpack straps, she wished he was here with her right now, giving her his wonderfully loud and positive attitude and his reassuring words that always did the trick. “Stay on guard, won't you?” said Golden, “I appreciate your enthusiasm Prisma, but still, this is pretty serious.” Prisma nodded, sticking close by to Sora, who was looking around the walls, watching as the crystals twinkled, it seemed so normal to him, like he had seen this place before. “These villains don’t make things easy, do they?” he laughed, summoning his keyblade and placing it on his shoulders. “Heh, if there are others about, I could deal with them for ya! Just give a shout and Sora’s there!” Golden giggled, Sora really was what Yen Sid had described him as, and remembering how he had appeared in a dream…it seemed frightening at first, but maybe he was the hope she needed? And with him and this new girl Prisma as an ally, it was better than having to complete the quest alone. “Funny you should say that, Sora!” smiled Golden. “We’ve had a few run-ins with baddies, me and my family. We could use a lot of help from people who use a keyblade! You know the Wayfinders, Aqua, Ventus and Terra, right? They are so cool! And they are really good at fighting bad guys and protecting us…And Aqua is just, ahh she’s the greatest!!” Golden whispered to herself giddily, hoping to meet Aqua again, it had been a few months since their last visit. Sora arched an eyebrow, and nodded his head at Golden’s question. “Yeah, I’ve met them before!” he grinned. “I’ve seen them in battle, all three of them. They are all really strong, and powerful, Ventus is kinda like me, we started out as young keyblade wielders, full of a zest for adventure, who knew we’d both end up becoming so strong?” Prisma studied his keyblade closely, intrigued by the intricate design of the hilt, and playfully shoving Sora in the side, almost knocking him off balance. “You oughta teach me sometime!” she jested, winking at the boy. “I swear, it seems so many young kids are getting keyblades, why didn’t I when I was younger? Man!” They all laughed, almost like a group of old friends, before coming to an opening in the walls in front of the path, the round passageway seemed to be glowing, almost inviting. They walked through, entering what appeared to be a wide room, the crystals had been replaced by what was covering the ground, it was like a field of wild narcissus flowers. “Ooh, flowers.” Golden said in awe, leaning down to brush her fingers on the soft, white petals. “That’s odd…” she thought suddenly. “Why would flowers grow in a cave? There’s no…sunlight?” Prismas skipped over, getting down onto her knees to get a closer look at them, she realised that it was these flowers that were giving this little room its glow. “Hmm, they are beautiful, aren’t they?” she said. “I wonder if someone was gardening here? Maybe they used magic to keep them from dying or drying out, they looked very well cared for.” Sora was also surprised to see so many flowers, noticing they stretched as far as the ground’s length, the whole place was so quiet and empty apart them the trio, he kept his keyblade at the ready as he also kept his guard up, feeling a sense of foreboding in the air. “Hmm, I think there might be another reason, Prisma.” he said, turning his head in all directions, seemingly to scout for any sign of danger, what if the Heartless were around too? They couldn’t be too careful, and had to be fast to get out of here should anything come their way. “Look.” said Prisma, pointing ahead. “What’s that thing on the ground?” The three of them looked together, there was definitely something there among the flowers, it was dark coloured, and appeared to shimmer in the light. Golden crossed through the field of narcissus, taking extra care not to step on a single one, stopping as she reached the sparkling object. Kneeling down, she brushed her hand against it, removing any petals that had fallen and covered it, her eyes widened, and her heart jumped to her mouth as she realised what it was. “The Evil Queen’s box…” she whispered, taking it in her hands, it was surprisingly light. She stood up, waving the box high above her head triumphantly like a flag. “I got it!” she called out cheerfully, jumping up and down around the flowers. “I found our first item!” She carefully made her way back to Sora and Prisma, excitedly clutching at the box, a bit unusual since it carried so many bad memories for her, of the pain it caused her the first time the Evil Queen had used it. “Wow, nice one Golden!” smiled Sora, giving Golden a little fistbump, pleased with seeing the box in the girl’s hands. “That’s the first one off of the list.” Golden ran her hands over the casing of the box, feeling its smooth texture before taking off her backpack and putting it inside for safety. “Yeah! And…it’s a little strange, don’t you think?” She said, her pleasant-sounding tone changing to that of uncertainty. “It was just lying there, all on its own? It just seemed…I dunno, a little too easy?” Prisma noticed the look in Golden’s eyes, and slowly placed a hand on her shoulder. “Golden? Are you alright?” she asked gently, but there came no answer. Golden threw on her backpack, and quickly gripped the hands of her two new friends and began to sprint toward the exit as if a giant tidal wave was coming toward them. “RUN!!!” she screamed, her voice echoing in each direction. From behind, the stems of the flowers suddenly grew into vines, shooting toward the trio like torpedoes, two grabbed Golden by both of her legs, pulling her to the ground and reaching toward her backpack, another wrapped itself around Prisma, binding her tightly. “Ahh! Get off of me!” she growled, trying to free her arms, the vines were strong from those belonging to a narcissus flower. Sora was caught by a vine wrapping around his waist, and then tying down his left wrist, luck was on the young keyblade wielder’s side as he held up his weapon, pointing the keyblade at all the incoming vines. “Stopza!” he shouted, freezing the villainous plant in place. Golden stared at Sora using the magic, effectively and effortlessly stopping them. She remembered Aqua had taught her the ‘stop’ spell, one of the most necessary spells to learn, and also essential for becoming a full time sorcerer. Seeing that her arms were free, Golden glared with determination, and reached her arm behind her, pulling her sorcerer hat out of the backpack and putting it on, she began to think, focusing on the magic inside her, channelling it to her being and into her palms, and with one swish, a ferocious wave of white light filled the room, the vines were caught it in, disappearing and leaving nothing behind except for the flowers once more. “Don’t mess with me or my friends!” Golden shouted, standing up again and crossing her arms, sticking her chin up boastfully as she told the flowers off. Prisma stared in awe and wonder, amazed at the skill and power Golden had, and how she used it. “Wow…” she gasped in shock, clutching her hands together to her chest. “What…magic!!”
Golden clenched her fists, puffing up her chest just like Oswald would, and called out. “Hey in there! I’m not afraid of you!” she yelled, turning to the shadowy entrance to a further part of the cave. The flowers began to wilt as footsteps approached the stone doorway, Sora and Prisma standing guard as the little girl held her backpack straps tightly, anticipating anyone. “Then you’re a fool.” A reply, Golden felt the hairs on her neck stand up, heart starting to race. Not that she hadn’t been expecting to see them…but it stirred up awful memories. Maleficent and the Evil Queen cast shadows over the garden, the flowers wilting more and more with every step they took, until they were so dead that they disintegrated into nothing beneath the witches’ feet. “Not again…” Golden whispered, dread coursing through her veins as she stared up at the two, this was just like before, The Evil Queen and Maleficent standing before her, looking positively beaming with excitement at dishing out the cruelest methods of torture of the girl, only this time, Golden wasn’t hiding away sobbing in Aero’s arms, nor was the Evil Queen sticking pins into her already fragile heart, thankfully that box she kept her heart prisoner in was not in her reach either. “Well well well, look who’s here.” giggled Maleficent, facing down at the trio of heroes, Sora and Prisma stood close by Golden, keeping their eyes fixed on the villainess duo for any sudden moves. “A little runt who keeps getting hurt all over again, and won’t stay down. A stray girl in a hood, you don’t look very useful.” Prisma scowled at that, her fist balling intensely enough to show her white knuckles. “You watch your mouth, witch!” she yelled, wanting to collide her fist with Maleficent’s nose. “You have absolutely no idea who you’re dealing with!” Maleficent shrugged off the girl’s threats as if they were fallen snowdrops off her shoulders. She then turned toward Sora, gripping the hilt of the keyblade tightly in both hands, she smirked at him with her mouth curled, almost as if she might burst out laughing. “And you…boy.” she snickered. “This IS a surprise…what made you decide to help these little ones?” Sora sneered, giving a small swing of his keyblade in defiance. “You’re asking me? As if you care about what I do?” he asked. “I’ve seen you get defeated enough times, I don’t need a reason to take you down again!” Maleficent leaned toward the Evil Queen, both of them exchanging a look like a pair of gossipy hens. “He IS an interesting one.” The Evil Queen glared at him. “With a heart like yours, it’s not easy to know just what goes on inside that head.” She extended a hand toward him, her long black nails making her fingers look like sharp claws. “Don’t be a fool boy, come on, jo-” Golden stood in front of Sora, sticking her arm out protectively, glaring as hard as she could at Maleficent and the Evil Queen. Prisma felt admiration for Golden’s bravery, and stood beside her too. “Enough!!” Golden screamed, feeling her fury rise the longer she stared at them. “Sora would never join you! He’s…he’s a hero to many others and has stopped evil so many times! You’d think he’d stoop down to your level?” Golden was frowning as much Yen Sid would when he’d silently reprimand his apprentices. Maleficent and the Evil Queen merely smirked, as if they were watching a rather humorous act. “Oh believe us, child…” snickered the Maleficent, Diablo had flown into the scene, perching himself on the mistress of evil’s shoulder, who petted him affectionately. “You all seem to be here for a reason, and it was you…who sealed us all away in this…ugh, uproariously unappealing realm containing nothing but light! At least this cave provides the comfort of my home at the fortress.” Golden stiffened, standing up straight. She took one step forward, thinking in her head how to do this. Prisma almost reached out her hand to her, but sensed a ray of confidence in the girl’s heart. “You’re right.” said Golden. “We ARE all here for a reason, and it’s not to fight you. We come in search of one thing from each of you, hand it over, and I won’t humiliate you by beating you again.” The Evil Queen and Maleficent sniffed in annoyance, finding Golden’s way of speaking to them quite irritating, it was clear that despite their battle being so long ago, her attitude and manners had not changed. “You have a lot of nerve.” said the Evil Queen with a venomous glare. “And what is it you could possibly want from us?” Golden looked at her straight in the eye, and felt ice cold. “Your staff.” she hissed softly. “And your crown.” There was silence, although the villainesses were smirking with confidence, it hadn’t occurred to them at first to what Golden was thinking, and they exchanged glances upon realising why. “Oddly specific.” frowned Maleficent. “Hmph, you little fool. Those two items are of great importance, and you’d honestly think…and without a fight that we’d give them to…” she halted, her eyes staring off. Diablo gave his mistress a small look of concern. “Wait…those items…yes, I recall now. They contain a fragment of Vor’s ring…” Maleficent scowled harshly, the Evil Queen pulled her dark cloak over her a bit further, a thought occurred to them both, could it be true? “You!” pointed the Evil Queen at Golden. “Don’t tell me…are you trying to summon the ancient witch Vor?!” Prisma stepped forward with a smile, clasping her hands together behind her back innocently. “Yep!” she chirped. “You figured it out! Very clever!” There was quiet in the cave once more, the two villainesses looking absolutely dumb-founded, while Golden and Sora stared in shock at their friend, Golden felt her stomach drop at the idea she might have been duped. “P-Prisma?” she uttered. The dark haired girl slowly turned her head, smiling at Golden and Sora while giving them a wink. Sora sighed in relief, while Golden almost fell backwards onto the ground, her feet almost giving way to the tension that had lifted. “You don’t know who I am, do you?” chortled Prisma cheekily at the Evil Queen and Maleficent. “Well, let’s just say…I’ve done something you two could never do! I convinced this little sorcerer, and the most famous keyblade wielder in all of the realms! You could say I…broke their wills.” she finished darkly, moving back to place a gentle hand on Golden’s back to reassure her. Feeling unconvinced, the Evil Queen stared at her. “And you honestly expect us to trust you?! Who are you child?” Prisma grinned, waving her hand gently and motioning Golden to step back a little. Sora took Golden’s small hand in his, watching the young apprentice huddle close to him as Prisma suddenly began to change. Prisma put up her hood, which began to transform from her long brown robes into a long, crystalised dress, her hair which was dark brown, had become a bright red. “Oh my…!” gasped Golden, this was magic she had never seen before, not even in the five years she’d lived with Yen Sid and the others…just who was Prisma? Or better yet, what was she? “You should trust me,” Prisma giggled, “because I’m on your side! Come now ladies, would I ever fool such dear allies?” Maleficent and the Evil Queen took one look at each other, they wore a smile that told Sora and Golden they had been convinced, and Prisma looked pretty pleased with herself, on top of her rather scary and villainous appearance she had just taken on, she seemed to be quite the specialist in transformation magic. Reaching into her cloak, Maleficent took out her staff, giving the top a gentle rub with her palm, Diablo cawing in support. The Evil Queen removed her crown, watching herself with gusto at her reflection in the brilliant light that shone down from the crystals above. “I have but one question, dear…” The Evil Queen purred, Prisma listening intently for what she had to ask. “How…did you break them? Specifically hers?” She pointed a long, boney finger at Golden, who kept still and quiet, looking like she was mind controlled, putting on a rather blank expression before the queen. “Oh, well it was pretty simple.” Prisma answered coolly. “It’s all in the mind, you just need to know where and how, and snap…” she snapped her fingers, which echoed quite loudly off the thin cave walls. “There they are, all yours to break apart and put together again. Breaking the mind is like being…close to death.” Those last words made Golden freeze, a bead of sweat rolling down her face. She didn’t know why she felt this way, perhaps Prisma hadn’t realised how realistic her acting was, but anything to butter up the two evil villainesses meant they could get out of here quickly with the items they needed. Holding out her hands, Prisma was given the crown and the staff, and de-transformed, she gave a thankful nod to the queen and the mistress, and placed the items into Golden’s backpack, which felt a little heavy now with everything contained inside. “Thank you ladies.” smiled Prisma, giving them a little bow. “It’s been a pleasure doing business with you.” With that, the three youngsters took their leave, taking the path that took them to the small part of the cave. They soon reached the exit, bathing in the soft, warm light. Once far enough from the cave, Prisma leaned over, her hands supporting her on her knees as she burst into laughter. “Hahahaha! Oh my gosh, I can’t believe that worked!! You see that?!” she guffawed, almost losing her balance as she laughed. Golden and Sora shared a smile, both of them gaining a greater admiration for Prisma, Sora rubbed the back of his head, making his already spiky hair look all frizzy. “That was pretty amazing, Prisma!” he beamed. “How’d you do that? It was like…a whole different you…!” Golden had to agree, already wanting to know just how Prisma had done that. “It really was amazing.” she said. “You didn’t seem…at all scared. Were you?” Prisma snickered, shaking her head as she joined up with the two, walking up the hill beside them. “Nah, no biggie!” she laughed joyfully, skipping a bit ahead of them. “That transformation magic is a little trick of mine, known it for yeeeeears hahaha! I will admit I was a teeny bit worried, but my superb acting skills did the job!” she struck a pose, puckering her lips and winking like an actor on stage, Sora turned away from looking, feeling a bit embarrassed by Prisma’s antics, but Golden was watching her strut about with great glee. “I hope I didn’t frighten you, Golden…” Prisma said, scratching softly at her cheek. “I didn’t…go too overboard, did I?” Golden could see Prisma was feeling a bit guilty, knowing that her methods had gotten to her a little bit. Not wanting to hurt her feelings, especially since it had won them the items, Golden shook her head, giving Prisma a sweet smile. “No, it’s okay! You really helped us out. Maybe when we meet another villain, you can just do a repeat of that to save us some time, hehe!” Prisma grinned, putting an arm around the younger girl, giving her a playful nudge. “Haha! I can’t promise you anything, they might not be all convinced, especially if they are snobs haha! But maybe it’ll work out again in some cases…” Sora swung his keyblade on his finger, making it look like a windmill before he placed it over his shoulders, giving the two his warm, signature smile. “And if they don’t fall for it…” he said. “Then I’ll give them a taste of the ol’ keyblade! I’ve been looking for some action, so let’s show those villains we aren’t to be messed with! How many items do we have, Golden?” Golden counted on her fingers, doing it twice in case she made a mistake, but she was more than certain about the quantity. “We’ve got two out of nine!” she announced, holding onto her backpack like an explorer. “Come on, let's move on…our next target might not be far…”
Back at the castle, morning rolled around. After an unsuccessful game of hide and seek, in which nobody had found Golden, the group had wondered if they ought to search for her, but figured she’d just fallen asleep in her hiding spot and would reappear the next morning. But something was amiss as Percy zipped around the house the next morning, noticing something strange on Yen Sid’s map of the realms, an item he’d put on display in the observatory only a few months ago, as it had been gifted to him for Christmas by Uncle Ambrose. He noticed a small, moving dot in the light realm, yellow and traversing. He raised an eyebrow, but ignored it for the time being, Yen Sid ought to be able to explain it relatively easily, perhaps one of the council members had journeyed there, or someone else the master knew. Regardless, he zipped down to breakfast, everyone sitting down, except one person. “Hmm…looks like we’re all here, except Golden.” Yen Sid muttered, raising an eyebrow. “Don’t forget Starlight!” Mickey pointed out, the little dream sentry nowhere to be seen either. “Maybe they’re both sleeping in, lazy idiots.” Oswald sipped his coffee, Mickey raising a disapproving eyebrow at his comment. “Well she might’ve stayed up to study for the finals! She seemed really excited you were putting her in for them, dad.” Julius smiled, Yen Sid ruffling his hair and earning a purr. “Well you’re all doing excellently in your studies, and I thought you’d all appreciate graduating as soon as possible.” he smiled, the broomies appearing with breakfast and one scratching its “head” at Golden’s absence, pointing at the chair. “We know, we know.” Percy chuckled, affectionately patting it, and giving a smile. “How about I go upstairs and wake her up?” he offered, Yen Sid giving an approving nod. The game of hide and seek had tired them all out, it was likely she was either sleeping in her room or in whatever amazing spot she’d found, but Starlight’s absence wasn’t usual either, perhaps she’d fallen asleep in Aurora’s arms…the thought made Yen Sid smile, and he watched Percy zip up the stairs. “If she doesn’t reappear in…an hour, should we start looking?” Scout murmured, Yen Sid adjusting her cap and giving a nod. “From what I can tell, she seems fine. I can usually sense when one of you is in danger, but I don’t sense anything amiss at the moment, so we shouldn’t fret. For all we know, she could be asleep in one of the cauldrons downstairs.” he smiled, Percy reappearing. “Dad!!! DADADADAD!!” he called, zipping around Yen Sid and almost causing the old sorcerer to fall off his chair. “What? Percival, calm down!” he yelped, holding out his hands to catch his son, and staring at him, Percy taking deep breaths. “Golden’s hat isn’t there, nor her wand, nor her muse, what…?” he panted, Yen Sid’s eyebrows raising in alarm. “What?” He replied, frowning in confusion as the rest of the apprentices went still, Oswald accidentally pouring coffee on his donut due to freezing in place. Percy de-transformed, thinking hard, before something occurred to him. Before any of the others could react, he zipped up to the observatory, Scout snapping her fingers and teleporting to follow him, as Percy always tended to think faster than the rest of them. He dashed over to the map, and whispered a spell, the map expanding and becoming three-dimensional, revealing a small, moving dot. He zoomed in more, and gasped, seeing Golden walking ahead of two shadowy figures, holding the muse and talking. Furrowing his brows, he quickly ended the spell, and checked the stand, Scout appearing. “Wha- Percy, why’s the muse gone?!” she gasped, Percy looking unusually serious. “Inform the master, now. I don’t know why, but…I have a feeling Lumen is in trouble.” he muttered, thinking back to the events of the prior day…they’d only gone to Mum’s, hadn’t they? He recalled her seeming nervous, and having a headache, and wondered if something more had happened, feeling as though he was missing some pieces of this puzzle. Scout had headed down to tell Yen Sid, and the old wizard had gone to the library, wondering where she could be, and noticing something strange. Still laid out on the table were his books, he’d forgotten to tidy them away, but one of them was missing, and a pit began in his stomach. “Lunula…you didn’t…” he mumbled, tracing his hand over the spot where the book should be, sighing and closing his eyes as he rubbed his temples. “We don’t have the muse…we don’t have anything, how can I open a gateway…” he mumbled, before remembering something, and sending someone a letter, someone who was as trained in the muse as he was, and always had a spare… “Dear Ambrose, I know this is short notice, but we need your help.” Not long after, Ambrose showed up at the house, twirling the muse on his fingertip like a basketball, and gave Yen Sid a sigh. “Your wand when we were 10, your hat when we were 12, and now your muse at 303? Really, you lost the trio in your lifetime!” he chuckled, before hugging Yen Sid tightly. “Don’t you worry, if it were my little ones I’d be feeling the exact same. Come on, let’s go find her!” he grinned, taking Yen Sid’s hand just as when they were children, and everyone heading up to the observatory. Yen Sid clung to his big brother, just as Mickey often would, and smiled slightly. “You should know, Ambrose, I think Golden has set out on some sort of quest, looking for the Wicked Nine…” he whispered, Ambrose turning worriedly. “What’s that?” Julius whimpered, turning around to look at Yen Sid, who hadn’t intended for him to hear. “Ah, well…the Wicked Nine are just objects for the most part, magical items used for pure evil. But if one were to combine them together…it could result in a disaster…I was telling Starlight about it yesterday, has anyone seen her?” he asked, the boys all shaking their heads and Scout shrugging. “What sort of disaster? Is Golden in danger?” Mickey whispered, almost mirroring Yen Sid as he held onto Oswald, Yen Sid bending down on one knee and holding his hand. “Not yet, but she could be if we aren’t careful. I suspect this all began because of her dream, so I will use what I know to my advantage.” he smiled, gently giving Mickey an ear rub, before standing again. “Scout, would you call your mother? And Mickey, I’ll need you to send a message to Aero and the Wayfinders. We might need help for this one.” he spoke, turning to his map and watching the dot move, Ambrose gently squeezing his hand and reassuring him they'd always be there for one another.
As they continued to traverse through the realm, Golden walked ahead, but grew curious. She knew what a Keyblade master was, but wasn’t sure what Prisma’s type of magic was, and began walking next to her. “Hey Prisma…? What type of magic do you use, like to do your transformation?” she asked, Prisma giving a smile. “It’s actually a little rare, crystal magic is what it’s called. I wouldn’t be surprised if you hadn’t heard of Crystalmasters, we are somewhat hard to come across nowadays. My little sister and I, Azurine, we’d make crystals together in a magical realm known as the Mystic Isles…but she was always way better than me, I wished to be as good as her…” She mumbled, Golden gently reaching out to take her hand, the muse still chiming to indicate they were getting closer. “I’m sure you were still amazing, and that glittery dress was beautiful!! You looked like a princess!” she giggled, Prisma raising her eyebrow slightly. “A princess, huh? Well not quite, but…I did get my power from somewhere special. I had something called the Terra Crystal, and I got a bit of that magic left over, which is why I can do that fun trick. But I don’t have a lot left, so I have to be careful how often I use it…when I had it, I was so much more powerful.” she explained, Golden stroking her chin in thought. “Why don’t you have it anymore?” she asked, innocently looking up at Prisma, who chuckled slightly, it was a bit of a sore subject for her. “I’d rather not talk about it…I think we’re getting close, anyway.” she smiled, pointing at the muse as it began to beep faster. Golden noticed Sora had been quiet the entire time, he looked a little moody, and she hoped nothing the villains had said was upsetting to him. She moved a little closer to him, and he gave her a slight smile. “Hey there hikari beacon.” he grinned, ruffling her hair and Golden giggling at the nickname. Percy had once said that word, he said it meant light, much like lumen, and she found it funny that so many people called her words with that meaning. She gently took his hand, ignoring the funny feeling that came from his armour, and they walked toward a lake, taking off their shoes and wading in, noticing a set of waterfalls with a cave behind them, the muse pointing them in that direction. “Hmm…what item could be back here?” Prisma wondered, Golden thinking back to her list, there was one person on that list who loved water…she gulped slightly, holding her hands above her head to avoid getting too splashed as they moved behind it. There was a dark cave once more, lined with crystals, but full of little creatures, all looking quite miserable and staring up at Golden, who felt a chill looking at them. She bent down, and took one into her hands, it seemed sad and began to make an awful wailing sound, the group covering their ears as the entire garden began to scream out, alerting the sea witch that she had guests. The one in Golden’s hands grabbed her wrists, trying to cling to her, but a tentacle wrapped around her waist, dragging her away despite the polyp’s efforts to help her. The sea witch was snacking on krill, seemingly quite unbothered, but held the trio fast, raising her eyebrow. “Well, well, well, what have we here? Two lost little girls, and…oh, now that is intriguing.” she chuckled, Sora scowling at her and narrowing his eyes, the witch taking his keyblade and messing with it with one of her other tentacles. “Since you’ve all wandered in here, I hope you’re comfortable, ha!” she chuckled, squeezing Golden tighter and glaring at her. “I remember you, brat, I ought to add you to my garden for sending me here!” she growled, the small sorcerer trying to wriggle free, and recalling the time poor Star and Starlight had been trapped just like this. “What garden?!” she demanded, Ursula chuckling and pointing at the polyps with one of her other tentacles. “Them, my little pets. They’ve followed me everywhere I go, good little things, I couldn’t bear to live without them, after pesky Eric took my pets…” she growled, thinking of Flotsam and Jetsam, and glaring up at the child. Prisma watched as Ursula continued to squeeze, knowing she couldn’t lose Golden, and got the witch’s attention. “Wait! Wait, please…we’re here to talk, not to fight. We have a proposition…” she begged, Ursula looking at her nails and sighing, but letting Prisma down, allowing the girl to transform again. “We are trying to bring back the sorceress Vor…and if we succeed, she’ll release all the villains of the world from their prisons, and restore your powers.” she explained, Golden feeling herself beginning to struggle for air and looking at Sora desperately, who looked a little grossed-out by her pale face. “Hey sea hag, you’re kinda suffocating her.” he remarked, Ursula sighing but loosening her grip slightly, Golden coughing and Ursula subsequently dropping her, so she fell onto her knees. Several of the polyps collected around her, and she stroked them all, noticing how they all looked distinct, and became curious about who they were… “It’s okay, don’t worry…” she whispered, Ursula ignoring her, to them, these people she’d cursed were deserving of their fate…the majority of them weren’t even humans, but natural inhabitants of the light realm, like birds and animals…nevertheless, it was entertaining when they cried. “Well isn’t that tempting…what do you need from me, kiddies?” she chuckled, allowing Sora to land on his knees and throwing him his keyblade, the boy giving a grin, knowing they’d won her over. Prisma rolled her eyes at being called a kid, but held out her hands. “We want your piece of the Wicked Nine. Now.” she smirked, Ursula using a tentacle to rip it off her neck and throwing it to Prisma, who caught it easily. “Keep your side of the bargain now. If Vor doesn’t reappear, there will be hell to pay, especially for you, little one…” she scowled down at Golden, who looked sadly at the polyps, hardly hearing the sea witch. The little girl wondered why it wasn’t possible to save everyone, why people had to suffer because of cruel villains, and felt some tears pricking her eyes, but one of the polyps reached up and wiped them away, and put a hand on her chest, as if to make her feel better. She nodded, and stood up, making a promise to come back and help them all when she was done with her quest, but moved a little closer to Prisma, putting the necklace in her bag. “I’ll tell the vizier you’re coming, make your job easier. This will be delightful!” The sea witch called after them, Prisma snickering slightly and putting her arm round Golden, who gave a small wave to the polyps. “They sure are gullible.” Sora smirked, holding his keyblade defensively, as if warding off the little creatures lining the passageway, which shrank in fear of him. “Well, they are dumb villains, hehe! Dad told me that dark magic makes you irrational and overconfident, hehe.” she giggled, Prisma and Sora glancing at each other. “Your dad, huh?” Sora raised an eyebrow, Golden nodding. “Yeah, Master Yen Sid! I didn’t tell you?” she thought, putting a hand on her chin and realising she likely hadn’t told them everything…she hadn’t even told them about her dream…perhaps when they went back to the cabin she could tell them everything. They continued to traverse, the muse guiding their way to the last item, and Golden remembered Jafar, and his annoying sidekick… “Be on guard, guys…this guy is really creepy.” she whispered, the two older people nodding. “We don’t doubt it, but we can take him on!” Prisma chuckled, watching as the muse began to lead them again, Sora and Prisma following as Golden broke out into a run, four out of nine almost down, and then the other five…and then nobody else would be hurt.
In the realm of light, all was quiet not far from the entrance to the cave until a light descended down, and paved a way for Yen Sid to appear and step out of, his apprentices and Ambrose soon followed him through. Once everyone was out, they stared at the wide open world like they had just stepped off of a plane on holiday, practically star-struck by how beautiful and inviting it was. “Woooow, look at this place!” gasped Oswald, twirling around to get a good look at everything. “It’s incredible!” Scout also spun around, feeling a little kid at the carnival and just wanting to see everything there was to see. “Woah, hey pops, I can’t believe we haven't been here before!” she cried. “How come you never took us here before?” Yen Sid chuckled softly, admitting to himself that the realm of light wasn’t a place he had in mind for taking his apprentice to for a day. Ideally it was safe and was composed of pure energy and magic, with some of the villains here, their magic had been suppressed by the light, but it was very possible they still posed a threat. “The light realm…” Yen Sid began, his voice as soft as the light around them. “A most enchanting world, the light here is nothing but the utmost purity, but you must remain vigilant my apprentices. There will be dangers, so please stay close.” Ambrose held back a small snicker, a cheeky expression on his face. He walked beside Yen Sid, gently nudging him in the ribs. “Someone is sounding like our old man.” he jested. Yen Sid raised an eyebrow, noting that twinkle in his older brother’s eye. “I haven’t the slightest idea what you’re talking about, Ambrose.” he said, side-eyeing his brother with a subtle smirk. “I do recall though…Master Grey took us all here one time, didn’t he? The whole cohort was here, and it was one of the few times I have witnessed the true peace and tranquillity of the light realm.” He took a step forward, and noticed the path ahead that led to the mountains, they would first have to traverse through the plains, Yen Sid wondered if Golden would really travel that far, and for what reason? But that would need to be answered later, turning to Ambrose and his apprentices, Yen Sid began to lead the way. “The path ahead might look safe,” he told them straightforwardly. “But there are villains in this realm, perhaps things more dangerous than we think. Stay close, my apprentices, and stay on guard.” Ambrose took to Yen Sid’s side once more, using the muse as a kind of wayfinder, hoping fully that Golden was here in the realm, and that they could bring her back home, and talk if she needed to explain her feelings. Percy noticed the looks on the two older sorcerer’s faces, and fiddled gently with his robe collar a little. He and Golden had gone through this at their therapy sessions, and agreed to talk about any problems they have and needed to get off their chests. He thought back to the doodles she had made, were they the reason she was acting so strangely? Or could it have been Mum’s book? He shuddered to think it might have been either, knowing Golden looked uncomfortable in both situations. Scout took in the scenery, her hands clasped casually behind her head as she strolled ahead, the realms always fascinated her, and often inspired her with a beat for a new song. Oswald marched beside her, lightly kicking up dust, his hands firmly inside his pockets, thinking up some rather strong words he’d have for Golden when they found her. Mickey took hold of Yen Sid’s hand, staying close to his mentor, and keeping an ear out for any response from Aero on his phone, hoping it wouldn’t be long before she answered. Mickey found the light realm to be rather beautiful, and thought how it would make a nice place to bring Minnie one day for a picnic date, perhaps once the residing villains would be dealt with. Julius slowed his pace as he became distracted by the flowers that gently swayed in the soft wind; they weren’t like any flowers he’d ever seen. “This whole place is…hmm, what’s the word?” Julius mused, lightly stroking the flower petals with his fingers, he smiled as he thought of how enthusiastic Ambrose would be at these flowers, he’d probably take one home as a souvenir. “Airy?” Scout suggested, noting the calm and rather floaty feeling of the realm, almost like they were walking on air. “Hmm, could be! It really is like walking through light…” said Julius, holding out his hands to feel the gentle coolness of the breeze on his palms, before quickly sprinting back to the group before they too far ahead. “Wait for me!” Julius ran up to Yen Sid’s other side opposite Mickey, staying close by him. Yen Sid placed his palm on Julius’s soft head and petted him, making him purr contently and in safety. “Remember, stay close, everyone.” Yen Sid reminded them. “I would hate for any of you to get lost, or hurt in the process. I trust all of you to hold your own, and defend yourselves without trouble, but there is safety in numbers.” Following the muse, everyone walked for a good while, traversing the path Golden, Sora and Prisma had taken. The muse began to alert, though it wasn’t a big one, and signalled them all to turn left. “Hey, look!” Mickey pointed to a cave just by the mountain side. “You think she’s in there? The muse must be pointing us to her!”
Inside, the walls were lined with torches, casting a red, eerie glow all about, unnerving Golden. She clung to Sora slightly, who didn’t particularly mind, but the older people seemed incredibly focused on their goal, something Golden had to remind herself to focus on, as she constantly got distracted with worries about her dreams, or thoughts of her family. They walked through the cave, eventually coming to a large, open amphitheatre, where the villain himself sat on a makeshift stone throne, Iago resting on his arm. Tense, the three of them approached him, ready for any potential move he might make, but he was merely twirling his staff, and fiddling with fragments of a scarab beetle. “Ah,it’s the little collectors themselves. I was told you want my staff?” he hissed, the trio nodding nervously, Golden quivering slightly and remembering Mickey telling her about how Jafar became a big scary snake in his dream. Prisma gently bent down to ruffle her hair, and turned back to the vizier. “Ah, but I must ask for my side of the deal too, such is essential for a good bargain. Put in a good word for me to Vor, won’t you? I want to be part of the empire she’ll form, perhaps even second in command.” he leered, Prisma giving a salute. “Can and will, vizier!” she winked, the man giving a satisfied smirk. “Uh, yes sir!” Golden piped up, before shrinking back as he turned to stare down at her, Sora stepping in front of her slightly, earning a raised eyebrow from Jafar. “Honestly, I wasn’t expecting you here…” he muttered, Golden’s heart thumping slightly and remembering she had to pretend to be mind controlled. Iago suddenly flew down, landing on her shoulder, and eliciting a surprised yelp from the kid. “Jumped ship? Well don’t ya worry, me too kid! Plenty of times, actually!” he chuckled, Golden gently trying to push him off, unlike Starlight on her shoulder, Iago was rather rough, his talons digging in and drawing tiny pinpricks of blood under her clothes. Jafar stood, Iago immediately flying back to him. “Silence! Now…take the staff. But know I am never patient with those who do not keep their word.” he glared, handing the staff to Sora, who twirled it in his hand like a parade marshal. Golden looked nervously at him, and nodded, despite her voice shaking slightly. “W-we won’t let you down, it’s a deal!” she declared, unaware someone was right outside, listening to the words echoing throughout the large, open cave.
“Umm…everyone?” Scout whispered, just enough for everyone to hear. “You hear that? Golden is here! And…I think she’s making deals with the big bad creeps!” The group stopped, they managed to hear a small voice, though not as audible now, it was unmistakably the voice of the youngest little apprentice sorcerer. Percy leaned in, almost pressing his ear against the solid rock walls to hear, hoping there wasn’t an error. “Lumen?” he hummed softly. “That’s not like her…” Oswald pushed ahead, pulling off both of his ears in earnest and holding them against the walls. “Let the expert handle this.” There was silence, no one could hear the other side, as much as Percy was lenient on listening again and hoping his ears were deceiving him. Oswald scowled, pinpointing a voice on the other end. “It’s Golden alright!” he exclaimed, sticking his ears back on. “But here’s the thing, she’s not alone!” The idea alone already set off Yen Sid’s instincts, knowing whoever Golden was with wasn’t good news. He quickly stepped beside a large chunk of wall, gesturing everyone to stick by him, waiting for the voices to pick up again, and for Golden to make her appearance. He was trying with all his might to keep the phoenix within him soothed, and not to jump to any conclusions at the thoughts running through his mind. “I hear her!” whispered Oswald, leaning with one of his ears pressed on the wall. “She’s coming this way!” Footsteps approached, several echoing off the stone cold cavern, there was a soft giggle from a girl, and a clank of metal being dragged along the floor. “A sorcerer? More like a dealmaker!” Prisma laughed, nudging Golden in the side a little. “That was perfect, Golden!” Prisma laughed, walking beside Golden who now held onto the staff, she felt a sense of relief knowing that they were halfway there, and getting these items was simpler than expected. With all this, Golden knew she could prevent the horrible disaster she had seen in her dreams. “We only have five left.” she smiled, putting the staff away in her backpack, which was feeling heavier and heavier by the minute, but she carried on, determined to continue on her mission, at all costs. “Let’s get going guys, the next villain awaits! And I think it’s a certain soldier from the frozen peaks…” The exit was right ahead, leading to the way of light. Golden felt a slight sense of nervousness as she wondered about the next villain, who she saw a glimpse of in her dreams. A sudden step behind her made her flinch suddenly as she stopped to a stand along with her friends. “Stop right there, young lady.” Golden hunched her shoulders, gripping as tightly onto her backpack straps. Turning her head, she felt her heart in her mouth as she spotted her family standing right before her in the light realm. “Please tell me it’s my imagination…” she said mentally, it couldn’t be possible for them to have followed her…could it? “Okaaaay who are they?” asked Prisma. “You know them, Golden?” Golden nodded a shaky reply, and Scout stepped forward a little, crossing her arms and scowling furiously at Prisma. “And we could ask YOU the same thing!” she sneered. “What do you want with my sister? Are you some kind of kidnapper or something? Well, whatever you are, we won’t let you get away with it!” The teen was starting to conjure up a spell in her hands, musical notes flying around a small flame that looked ready to burst into a flare. Prisma held her arm out in front of Golden, who could only look at her friend with great sadness, this was her family, she didn’t think she’d have someone protecting her from them. “Prisma…they are my family, and she’s my big sister.” she told her, gently pushing Prisma’s arm back down. “And everyone? This is Prisma, she’s my friend. I-it’s okay, I promise you!” Oswald immediately pulled out his remote device, switching it on at the push of a button, standing side by side with Scout. “A likely story!” he cried furiously. “Looks like we got a kidnapper, AND a mind controller! Well not on my watch! Let my baby sister go, you…you…ahh, sister thief!” Prisma swallowed anxiously, noting how everyone looked ready to fight, and stepped back, taking Golden by the shoulders and standing behind her slightly. Unbeknownst to them, Sora had stepped back further, retreating into the dark shadows of the cave. Golden, with her heart pounding like a drum, reached forward to her father. “Dad…you remember, don’t you?” she asked softly, gazing at Yen Sid’s hard stare as he silently looked back. “In my dream? There were two people who…were there with me, this is the girl, Prisma was there! And the other, Sora, he’s here too! They are gonna help me!” Yen Sid held up his hand, his expression appeared to be hardening. “Enough, Golden.” he said sternly, making Golden freeze and go quiet, despite his harsh tone, there was an unmistakable softness in his eyes as looked at her. “Answer me, child…why in all of Lumos are you running off on a wild goose chase with this… stranger? You should have told me if you wanted to talk about something, and that dream that had clearly affected you. What is it that I cannot help you with? And everything you had learned in therapy?” He stepped forward, ahead of his apprentices, he seemed to reach out to her as well. “Whatever this is, Lunula, we can solve it together, and more.” Golden bit her lip, she didn’t want to make her family feel like this, but it wasn’t in her intentions for them to be aware of this mission she was on, and thinking that now only made her feel worse. Swallowing a lump in her throat, Golden’s mouth curled softly into a little smile, as a way to ease both herself and Yen Sid. “Dad…I understand, but…it’s okay I promise you.” she explained, her voice low and shaky, lifting her head, she attempted to make herself sound more perky. “See? Prisma and Sora helped me track down four items already, and all we had to do-” Julius’s jaw almost hit the ground, he let go of Yen Sid’s robes, and looked at Golden with a somewhat distressed and surprised look. “FOUR?!” he cried, his voice echoing all around them. “You…you mean to tell us you’ve already gotten four of the Wicked Nine?! Golden, what are you thinking?!” Mickey reached out a hand and placed it softly on his brother’s back, he nodded to Julius’s comment from his outburst, looking just as worried about Golden and her intentions. “Goldie…I don’t think you know what you’re doing…” he said, trying to stay tactful while explaining. “I’m sure your heart is in the right place, but…the Wicked Nine are dangerous, they are called wicked for a reason and…the villains have put a target on your back, surely you must realise this?” Prisma raised her hand, offering a meek smile to the family of sorcerers. “Um, if I may?” she said, gesturing subtly for Golden to stand behind her, but the young girl didn’t move. How could Prisma, a stranger to them, make a good impression during an already tense moment? “This is a family matter!” Scout yelled, looking ready to fire her spell right at Prisma. “You are NOT part of this family, stay out of it!” Golden was ready to sink to her knees, rarely had she seen Scout lose her cool. She wanted to say she was used to Yen Sid losing his temper, but it had been a long time since he had last become enraged, even shouted, even if it was out of love and worry for his loved ones. Even now, Yen Sid appeared to be calm, but one wrong move, and he could already start a battle and try to rescue her. “I may not be family…” Prisma went on, her smile faltering. “But I assure, I mean no harm to Golden or any of you, honest…cross my heart!” Golden watched to see everyone’s faces, there was no change in their expressions. Percy looked ready to burst into an angry sun any minute now. “Utter rubbish!” he yelled. “Lumen, listen to us…even if you DID get all of the Wicked Nine, and you put them all together, who knows what might happen?! There’s no telling what disasters it could create!” Golden stomped her foot, rather childishly like she would, trying to drown out the voices of her relatives as she started to shout. “And that’s exactly WHY I’m putting them together!!” she exclaimed loudly enough for her voice to travel down the cave’s entrance to Jafar. “Something bad is going to happen to you, especially you dad…!! I’m just trying to prevent anything that might happen, I couldn’t bear to see you all get hurt because of me!” She felt tears build in her eyes, and forced them to stay inside with all of her will. “When the Wicked Nine are all together, I’m going to destroy them. So nothing terrible will happen before it can.” Yen Sid sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose while trying to remain calm and not further Golden’s distress or that of the others. “Golden,” he said quietly. “Whatever this is you’ve witnessed in your dreams…is it truly so bad, that you have to do this all on your own? And not even tell us? Lunula…when there’s a problem, it’s us that you’d go to, isn’t it?” His eyelids drooped a little, his expression morphing from a stern and serious appearance, to a more sad and disappointed one. “I thought you could trust us, little one…” Golden’s eyes filled with more tears threatening to spill, they blurred her vision as the feelings of guilt weighed heavy on her heart. Shutting her eyes, she could see the dream with Yen Sid happening again, and just as vividly. “I…I do trust…” she whimpered, “I do…it’s just…I can’t tell you why I gotta do this alone, it…it’s too hard.” Mickey looked on with an empathetic look, seeing his sister looking so distressed and confused was difficult. “Goldie, you can tell us anything.” he said, offering her a kind smile. “Whatever it is, we can help, there’s nothing we can’t handle, right?” This earned a nod from Oswald, Julius and Scout, trying to ease off on their worried looks, or their frustration and anger toward Prisma. “Of course we can handle it!” cheered Oswald, pounding his chest as he puffed it out like a balloon. “We will kick this little problem to the curb, once we bring Golden home of course. Now, get over here young lady!” Oswald pointed to the ground at his feet, ordering Golden like a parent would to their child, she only shook her head in response, staying put. “I can’t! I won’t!” she cried, looking more upset than before. Prisma slowly ushered Golden behind her, frowning at the family of sorcerers with a look of scorn. “That’s enough.” she said coldly. “You’re clearly scaring and upsetting her. Why don’t you all just back off?” Scout, Percy and Oswald looked ready to spring an attack on Prisma, her words making them all see red. Ambrose gently eased them down and shook his head, he tilted his head for them to step back, holding the muse in his hands as he approached Golden, slowly so as not to scare her or push Prisma to do anything. “It’s okay, sweetheart,” he said. “We are all just worried for you, that’s all. Let’s go home, and we can all sit down with some tea, and some of Sonatina’s cookies just for you! We all miss you, little one, the broomies especially want you to come home. What do you say?” He held out a hand for her to take, keeping his gentle, most understanding smile she had ever seen from him. “Shall we go?” Hearing that, Golden felt her heart shatter, and as tears burned her eyes and spilt over, she swung her arm out and smacked away Ambrose’s hand as her sobs finally broke free. “”NO!! NONE OF YOU UNDERSTAND!!” she shouted, her breath hitching as her voice boomed through the cave. “I CAN’T GO HOME! I CAN’T TELL YOU ANYTHING, I CAN’T BECAUSE I DON’T WANT ANYONE TO GET HURT!! I DON’T WANT DAD TO DIE BECAUSE OF ME!!!” She turned away, and grabbed Prisma’s hand. Golden quickly activated the muse, and was already beginning to glitch as it worked its magic to get them out of here. “Woah, wait up, Golden!” cried Sora, jumping out of the shadows, his keyblade tight in hand as he took Prisma’s other hand, shooting a glance at Yen Sid and his apprentices quickly before all three of them disappeared in a flash of light. “LUMEN!!” Percy yelled, he rushed forward, hoping to grab her before she vanished, but all that remained was the dust particles and the twinkles of light left behind by the muse. “She’s gone…ohh, darn it! Back to square one, master.” The light man stood back up, and noticed how still Yen Sid was, his eyes looked more in shock than they usually did, and not only Yen Sid, but Mickey was shaken too. “Master? Are you alright?” asked Percy, waving his hand in front of Yen Sid briefly. “Mickey? You both look like you’ve seen a ghost.” Yen Sid blinked, looking down at his young mouse son, his face was intense and serious. “Mickey…you…you saw what I saw, didn’t you?” As much as Mickey wanted to say he didn’t, his eyes didn’t lie. He nodded, clenching his fists tightly. “Yeah, I did,” he said. “Golden…” Julius pushed his head under Yen Sid’s hand, and started purring as his dad began to gently pet him. “That was Sora, right?” he asked in a soft voice. “What’s he doing with that girl? And what do they want with Golden?” His question remained unanswered as Mickey’s phone pinged, taking it out of his pocket, there were two messages that just appeared, their timing couldn’t have been more perfect. “It’s Aero, and Aqua.” Mickey stated. “They are on their way to the workshop. Dad, we should head back right now.” Yen Sid nodded, and once again took Mickey’s hand in his as they made their way out of the cave and back into the light realm. As Ambrose prepared the muse to take them home, Scout also got a message on her phone from Mum, who was also on her way over. “Oh good, Mum is coming too!” she said, holding out her phone to Yen Sid so he could read it, and he gave another nod. He counted as everyone had joined together, so no one would be left behind as they left the light realm. “Golden…” he whispered softly. “I thought you were in danger before, but…knowing the two that are with you, I fear the worst now if you find the Wicked Nine…”
The muse sent them somewhere far away, another realm altogether, somewhere that seemed to be inside the Fairytale Realm, but it made Prisma feel slightly on edge, as the girl realised she felt quite cold, and Sora held out his palm, allowing snowflakes to fall onto his armour, contrasting against it brilliantly. The whistling winds and silent snow was suddenly interrupted by a soft sob, as their third member fell to the ground, clutching the muse tightly and burying her face into it. Golden couldn’t hold back the tears despite how freezing she felt, and the duo stared down at her, not knowing what to say or do to comfort the child. Prisma bent down, gently touching her shoulder. “Golden…? Hey…it’s…it’s alright, don’t fret…” She tried, but Golden couldn’t even look at her, simply dropping the muse and moving her hands up to her face, crouched down into a ball and making herself as small as possible. Sora took the muse, balancing it on his fingertip, and looked down at the shivering, sobbing girl, feeling like he should stay out of it. Prisma moved closer, as Golden began to mumble to herself amid the tears. “I…I made a huge mistake, I should never have said a-anything! Now they know, now they’ll try and stop me…” she rambled, her anxiety rising to the point she began to glitch, almost as uncontrollably as when Yen Sid had yelled at her and she’d accidentally teleported away, though luckily there weren’t any networks nearby. Prisma reached out again, squeezing both her shoulders and trying to keep herself calm, though she was feeling slightly agitated. “Golden…” she spoke, slightly louder to try and get her attention, trying to speak over the billions of thoughts clouding Golden’s head. “They’re gonna start looking too, aren’t they?! We…we have to get all the Wicked Nine before they can, we can’t let them get hurt…oh, what do I do?! Oh gosh…” she kept speaking, mumbling into her hands, Prisma gritting her teeth slightly and squeezing her shoulders more, almost to the point of pain. “Golden.” she spoke again, louder still, Sora even glancing at her slightly as he drew patterns into the snow with his Keyblade. Golden still didn’t look up, feeling the tears on her palms as she tried to wipe them away, but they wouldn’t stop, and she continued to sniffle and glitch, almost as if she was in a trance of her own creation. “And…and now dad’s gonna hate me, they’re all gonna hate me and…and I’ll b-be-” she was cut off by Prisma grabbing her tightly, and feeling her frustration rise. “GOLDEN!” she yelled, to the point that Sora jumped, and Golden ceased to glitch due to the shock, yelping and looking up at the older girl, who was frowning. Prisma’s expression was hard, and firm, unlike when Percy or Aqua helped her out of a tizz, but it only stayed that way for a moment, and soon melted down into her usual demure demeanour. “Golden…you know, I actually went through something very similar to you. Magic items tore me and my family apart, I lost my little sister…we fought over the Terra Crystal all that time ago, and it destroyed us.” she spoke, Golden looking at her in surprise, as Sora continued to stay out of it, tracing a symbol on the ground. “R-really?” Golden asked, Prisma nodding and reaching up to stroke her hair. “Yes…she was jealous of me, very jealous. And she stole something that made me better than her, because she was struggling to control her own power. Actually…” she mused, gently plonking Golden onto her lap, motioning for Sora to take the backpack for the time being, who slung it over his shoulder with ease and sat down beside them. “You’re doing this for your family, that we know, but…we were wondering. That glitch power, does it make life a little bit harder for you?” Prisma asked, Golden looking up in surprise, and then down at her hand as it sparked and buzzed. “I…I guess? It has its advantages…like…I can teleport with it…” she stammered, but Sora held up the muse. “But you have this, don’t ya? You don't need the glitch, surely?” he shrugged, Golden thinking. “We…do have training muses. They’re not as good as that one, but…maybe?” she wondered, Sora smiling. “And the panic attacks? Wouldn’t they stop if the glitch disappeared? And all those uncontrollable feelings?” Prisma grinned, Golden putting a hand to her chin in thought, just like Yen Sid often would…Yen Sid… she felt more tears rolling down her cheeks. “Should…I give up on this? Are they right?” she whispered softly, both Prisma and Sora sharing an alarmed glance. “No! No, don’t give up.” Prisma replied, Sora nodding. “Hikari beacon, you’re doing a great thing. You’re doing this to protect your family, who mean so much to you…that’s very…noble.” he spoke, giving his signature grin and reassuring her slightly. “Noble…” she whispered, it reminded her of story books, with heroes and princesses, and she felt her resolve grow a little. Maybe she was playing the role of a hero or adventurer, and she’d come home and be greeted by all those who loved her, just like in the stories. She stood up, wiping her eyes, and Prisma stood up alongside her, reaching a hand to pull Sora up. “You know what, Golden? I have an idea for a little deal of our own! How about we keep searching for all these items together, and once we get them, I’ll help you subdue your own power! We can make all these scary thoughts and feelings disappear quicker than you can snap your fingers!” she chuckled, Golden liking the idea and nodding. “Can Crystalmasters do that?” she asked, and Prisma nodded. “Yep! We have the handy dandy ability of putting naughty powers into our crystals, trapping them away! So that’s what I’ll do for you, okay?” she smiled, Golden nodding and Sora taking her hand, Prisma taking the other, walking together like parents and child…almost reminding Golden of that day at the theatre. Perhaps with time, these two could become a part of her family too, since it was always growing and changing, evolving like music itself…like a symphony.
They walked through the mountains for a while, Golden wondering what items might appear here, and staring down at her journal, once more carrying the backpack since Sora had complained about his shoulders hurting, being dramatic and making Prisma giggle. “You aren’t helping much, are you?” she teased, Sora rolling his eyes as he swung his keyblade. “I am, I’m just not as lovey-dovey as you, playing mum with her!” he scoffed, Prisma giggling behind her hand. “Well it worked, now you’re feeling all better, aren’t you Goldie?” she chuckled, Golden turning round and nodding slightly, keeping her focus on the muse. The mention of mum had reminded her of Sonatina, but also of her own mother from years ago, something she didn’t want to dwell on, but it seemed like the memories were an unstoppable flood, and remembering the theatre hadn’t helped either…though she didn’t like to admit it to herself, she missed her parents sorely, it was like a wound that never healed, and she wondered if this is how Scout had felt before Sonatina came back, like a dull ache inside her heart. They kept walking, but every step seemed to feel harder, as the snow came down more and more and the winds dusted their cheeks with pink, making them look cold and Golden hoping they wouldn’t get frostbite. They trekked up stone paths and around trees, it almost felt as if they were lost, but the muse kept guiding them… Sora was dragging his feet slightly, and Prisma was growing a little weary, whilst Golden had put her robes up to her face to try and keep herself warm.
They eventually came to a cluster of fallen stone pillars, which seemed like a wrecked castle, judging by a few shreds of torn tapestries, revealing a crest when they were pulled together. The muse jingled to indicate they were here, and she put it back in the backpack, brushing away the snow and revealing an opening. Golden realised she could fit inside, but it looked too small for the others. Slightly nervous, she clambered down into the old throne room, discovering it was too dark to see, and casting a spell with her hat to light up the room. The spell reminded her of Percy, and of the time she’d defeated the Coachman with light balls just like this one, but the soft glow…it made her imagine Percy beside her, and how he’d comment that this place needed a cleanup from the broomies, and a roomba too! She stepped over some more fallen tapestries, and stared down at them, they depicted three creatures, pink, blue and yellow, and rivers and plants, a haven of natural beauty…she touched the fabric, it seemed old, and foreign, perhaps a gift from someone else to whoever once owned this castle. A yell took her out of her daydream. “Golden! See the claw yet?” Prisma called, she cupped her hands over her mouth to reply. “Not yet! I’m looking…this place looks huge, like a buried castle!” she called back, Prisma glancing at Sora, and hoping they wouldn’t be here all day. Golden came across more tapestries, some depicting four brothers, others depicting a prosperous kingdom, which had seemed to fall to ruin after a curse…and transformed one of the princes into a monster. She continued through the halls, and found most of the castle seemed preserved underground, like a shell, protected from the elements. The child loved exploring structures like this one, but wished she was in a castle that was a little less beat-up, maybe with golden turrets and beautiful doors…her daydreams continued to distract her, but she still saw no sign of the claw…until she heard a little voice. It was ethereal, and a small glow came from behind one of the tapestries, one depicting a ferocious bear, likely Mor’du himself…she reached out to pull at it, and discovered a little blue creature, floating in midair and looking up at her with white eyes. A will o’ wisp. She stared down at it in fascination, reaching out her hand to touch it, but it didn’t move, simply disappeared, and then the hall lit up with more, taking her through these catacombs and toward the most ruined part of the structure, buried in stone and wood alike, and seemingly inaccessible. And there, amid all the rubble, was the shiny tip of the claw, almost beckoning her to take it. She quietly thanked the wisps and cast a spell, hearing Sora’s call echo through the halls, but trying to focus, and thus not answering him immediately. “Okay Golden…this might be heavy, but come on…” she gritted her teeth, and put as much focus as she could into a lifting spell, punching forward and tracing upward with both hands, raising the rocks with her strength. She bared her teeth as she felt the weight, and realised she wouldn’t be able to take the claw out, if she used one hand she’d risk breaking it from all the strength of the spell, but she needed to grab it… she closed her eyes as the weight overcame her small form, she wished she was bigger, or stronger, she was sure Yen Sid could do this with ease…and then something clattered at her feet, surprise causing her to drop the rocks. She almost gasped, terrified she’d broken the claw, but looked down, seeing a wisp had pushed it toward her. It moved up toward her face, and gently touched her nose, much like Star would, and amid the ethereal whispers, Golden was sure she heard the words ‘well done.’
Now that she had the claw, the wisps began to lead her out again, collecting around her almost like the polyps had, she wondered why everything was always drawn to her, perhaps they could sense she wanted to help? Nevertheless, she ran into the throne room. “Sora! Prisma! I got it!” she called, Sora peeking down into the opening and smiling down at her as she waved it about. “Great job! Now throw it up here, okay?” Sora called, reaching out his hand for it, and Golden levitated it, feeling her arms aching from how much strength she’d used, but glad she’d accomplished it, even if it had taken a little help from some small friends. Grabbing the claw, Sora stuffed it into the backpack, and then both Sora and Prisma held out their hands, pulling Golden out of the opening and back into the snow, which was cool on her red, tired face after the day she’d had. “Phew…” she mumbled, Prisma squeezing her reassuringly. “You did it! We knew you could, right?” She turned to Sora, who nodded. “Yep, you sure have a knack for this stuff. How did you get it?” He asked, Golden recounting the entire story as they continued to trek, taking turns holding the backpack and walking together.
After some time, they came to a cave area, Golden staring up at the sky. In one day they’d collected five items, and needed only four more…she felt quite proud of herself, but knew she couldn’t have done it without Prisma or Sora, they really had helped her out. The stars were starting to come out, and she reached out her hand as the moon sailed overhead, night in the Fairytale Realm seemed so clear and bright, despite the fact it was snowing and windy…she smiled slightly, but then the peace was interrupted by a malicious chuckle, causing Golden to tense and turn. “Oh, what have we here?” a gruff, aggressive voice echoed through the snow, bouncing off the mountains and reverberating as if it was surrounding the trio. Sora drew his keyblade, first to turn, and nearly gasped at the sight. The voice continued to speak. “You are respectful, boy. Though I wouldn’t expect any less.” he chuckled, Golden feeling as if her feet had frozen to the floor, and unable to will herself to turn, no matter how much she needed or wanted to. Prisma turned around too, holding the locket around her neck tightly, as if it was a reassuring token. “You too. Both of you are very respectful. And for that, you deserve a reward…” he continued to speak, his voice loud enough that it disoriented Golden as to his actual location, causing her to feel even more frightened by the foe they had encountered, though she still felt stuck, terrified beyond motion. The air seemed to grow colder, almost dead, and Prisma spoke up first. “Who are you?!” she called, the sound of boots crunching through the snow echoing alongside a malicious chuckle, though it wasn’t from humour, more cold and calculating…dangerous. In a swift move, Golden felt something cool and metallic suddenly press against her, seeing her face reflected back up at her as a jagged edge collided with her neck, though not quite enough to wound. A pair of yellow eyes peered over her shoulder, the girl sighting them in the sword, unable to move as she was essentially trapped in place. “And you… disrespectful.” he sneered, Golden’s heart rate rising as the situation registered in her mind. He’d approached from behind, and now she was stuck in between him and his sword. Both Sora and Prisma turned in shock, the Hun leader had moved faster than either of them could react, and weren’t expecting him to make such a move, they needed the kid… Golden swallowed, feeling her breathing speed up, and begging herself not to glitch, if she so much as flinched, there was a real risk of being sliced… she closed her eyes, trying not to be scared, but the only emotion she knew right now was fear, a fear of death she’d felt from those purple eyes… she blinked back tears, and watched the reflection in the blade, as the man began to speak again. “You may know me as the Hun Leader…a fearless warrior who will not hesitate to cut down those who stand in my path…” he snarled, the only sounds being the whistling winds and Golden’s shaky breaths, he was silent, and dangerous. One wrong move, and this entire operation would be over. “S-Shan…Yu…” Golden forced out, begging her body to stay still, so that her head wouldn’t move forward or body would nervously jolt, as it sometimes did. Shan Yu chuckled yet again, it was a cruel sound, one that sent chills down her spine. “Good, you did your research…” he muttered, clamping a hand over the back of her neck, holding her in place as he moved the grooves of his sword carefully, running the metal over her without hurting her, just to threaten her- he liked the sight of her fear. “I usually would put those I kill on their knees…but you’re small enough.” he snarled, that same fear of death returning, Sora and Prisma both inching closer, but a warning glare from Shan Yu made them both freeze. “Sir…please. We don’t wish to cross you, or anything! We…we are here to make a deal…?” Prisma tried, but it was no use, Shan Yu seemed hell bent on violence. “Tell me…does it really take three to find the Wicked Nine? I heard it on the winds, you’ve been trying to summon Vor, correct?” he turned, Prisma nodding nervously. Sora’s eyes narrowed. “You know of the legend?” he asked, Shan Yu scoffing. “This sword is special, as I’m sure this kid is finding out quite nicely…” he grinned, Golden unable to resist letting out a little whimper, but as he turned back to her, something stopped him. “Stopza.” A calm voice spoke, freezing both Golden and Shan Yu in place. Sora held out his keyblade, a beam of energy radiating off it. At that moment, Prisma ran forward and knocked the sword out of the way, pulling Golden forcefully away from Shan Yu, who broke out of the spell. “Wha…?” she whispered, but Prisma just held her arms tightly around her, moving out of the way. As the spell wore off, Shan Yu turned, surprised he’d lost his prey and noticed Sora standing there, weapon still outstretched. “Think you can take me on?” he challenged, Shan Yu gritting his teeth and raising his sword. “Winner keeps the sword.” Shan Yu replied, Sora grinning and accepting the challenge, a barrier appearing around them. Despite the Hun leader’s speed and agility, he was no match for the magic of a keyblade, Golden watching in awe as spell after spell sprung from the tip, the power held in there was immense, and amazing…she wondered if she’d ever be able to harness such magic, she might have known the ‘stop’ spell, but it would be amazing to be able to do spells like Sora, perhaps he could teach her… Her musings were interrupted by the clashing of metal, as the blades clashed once, twice, three times, and eventually, Shan Yu was brought down to his knees, Sora holding out his hand for the sword. Reluctantly, the leader plunged it down into the ground for the taking, but raised a hand to the sky, seeming to feel the air as the barrier disappeared. “You have a debt now with me…” he spoke, turning to Golden, who shook in place and clutched the straps of her backpack nervously. Prisma moved over toward Sora, checking he was fine, and they pulled the sword together, throwing it to Golden, who fumbled and tried not to get cut as she slid it into her backpack, barely big enough to hold it, and growing heavy. Shan Yu kept his palm raised, listening…and then smirked. “I will be taking my leave now. Good luck on your quest, after all…” he grinned, beginning to walk away, his strides so large that both Golden’s shoes could probably fit inside one of his footprints. “That’s the sound of a blizzard.” he remarked, disappearing over a ridge on the mountain and out of sight, the trio looking at each other in alarm as the wind suddenly picked up, howling and screaming as the snow came down faster than ever. “Anyone know anywhere we can go?” Prisma yelled, both herself and Sora dragging themselves to huddle by Golden, who was fumbling for the muse in her bag as visibility became low amid the storm. The little girl thought back, remembering the cabin, and quickly held onto Sora and Prisma, the muse taking them away in a flash of light. It seemed the blizzard had spread outside of the Fairytale Realm, erupting over the entirety of Lumos, and even some of the regions beyond, as well as several of the realms, covering the map that hung on Yen Sid’s wall. Inside the wooden walls, Sora lit a fire with his magic, and Golden pulled her coat further around her, as well as the blanket she’d slept in the night prior. Sora rummaged around, discovering more blankets and pillows for them all, and set up two sleeping bags for himself and Prisma, and beanbags…he made it quite cosy. Golden’s eyes watched the dancing flames, whilst Prisma sat in silence, glancing down at the kid’s journal, who had ticked off the six items, and was doodling on one of the pages, drawing little images of her family, indicating she was still feeling down from running into them…they really had found her easily, and she wasn’t sure if she was glad or upset about that. Usually, whenever she was in trouble, she liked that they could rescue her faster than lightning, but now…she needed her space to work, and for obvious reasons couldn’t talk to them, she had to do this on her own. She started doodling more, drawing a theatre, and three people, and then drawing something similar with herself, Prisma, and Sora…perhaps they could all be the best of friends. She smiled softly down at the drawing, glad she had two people who cared for her, and had her back…and Sora touched her shoulder suddenly, making her jump. “You really are something, huh kid?” he smiled, Golden closing up her journal and looking at him. “Huh? Well…I’m no different than any other kid, really!” she smiled, Sora raising an eyebrow as Prisma giggled. “Well, that big family is impressive! And you’re doing all this on your own, with those special powers of yours, that’s pretty remarkable.” she replied, Sora piping up. “Not quite alone, we’re here, idiot!” he chuckled, Prisma also laughing. “Yes…and we’re glad to have met you. We hoped to find someone like you, someone who could help us go to places we never could have gone…” she sighed dreamily, gazing into the fire. Golden wondered if she was thinking of her little sister…she’d never had any little siblings, as she was the youngest, and wondered if she’d be a good big sister, but she doubted she’d ever get any more siblings, unless Yen Sid adopted yet another person! Sora nodded, “You really have helped us, kid. Some of those realms can’t be accessed by my Keyblade, so having that ball of yours was handy!” he smiled, Golden chuckling. “It’s a muse, Sora.” she corrected, gently, and reached into her bag, pulling out her own smaller one. “You see this one? It’s got a song inside it…I wrote the song a long time ago, I was feeling angry and upset…but I never quite fixed it yet. It is still messy and glitchy…I struggle with reading and writing sheet music, which is why it’s broken, but…I hope I can fix it someday, and send it up to billions of others, like Master Hiro and all the other apprentices have done…” She smiled, Sora and Prisma seeming to feel the scape of her dream fill the room, it seemed to grow warmer at her words, drowning out the roaring blizzard outside as a small flute, a stroke of violin, all of it echoed from the little girl’s muse. “And you are doing all of this for your family…” Prisma mumbled, pulling her knees up to her chest. “Prisma, you know what I think? Your little sister was mean to you! If she only knew how nice and kind you are…she was all wrong to fight you, you should make up!” Golden insisted, Prisma giving a wry smile and shrugging. “It was a long time ago…I hope I can convince her to see my side someday.” she admitted, putting an arm around Golden, who snuggled close to her. “You will, I’m sure of it!” she smiled, Sora nodding. “And you know what, hikari beacon? I think your family will understand too, eventually. They’ll understand what you were trying to accomplish, and why you did it…and I think they’ll regret ever telling you to stop.” he grinned, Golden pulling him in so she was in the middle, and they were having a hug, of sorts. “So much happens when I’m involved…will you really help me with my magic?” she asked, Prisma nodding firmly. “Of course. First thing, as soon as we get these items. It’s my top priority!” she giggled, reaching over to tickle Golden, who was stuck in between as both keyblade wielder and crystalmaster made it their current top priority to tickle her until she squealed. Eventually, she was lying on her back, and stifled a yawn, Sora noticing. “You’d better go to bed, six items down gang. Tomorrow, we’ll set out again.” he smiled, Golden nodding and secretly hoping she wouldn’t have that dream again, but for now, the warmth of the cabin and their companionship was keeping out the cold. “We’ll set out for Lady Tremaine’s key. I think I know the next two after that…” Prisma smiled, Sora holding up a hand for a high five and the girl accepting, the two of them sitting by the fire and whispering together as Golden ducked into the bathroom to get ready for bed, pulling on her pink pyjamas. She looked at herself in the mirror as she brushed her teeth, hoping she was as strong as Aqua said, and could complete this on her own, and make Yen Sid proud… she rubbed her eyes and opened the door, Sora and Prisma both sitting up by the fire when she entered, clearly talking about teenager things they didn’t want the little girl to hear. “Goodnight…you know, having you here while I sleep…? It makes things less scary.” Golden smiled, clambering onto the sofa and getting comfortable, Prisma gently tucking her in. “Funny how that works, huh? Bundle up nice and tight, kid. We’ll stay up until the fire dies, and then hit the hay, got it?” she smiled, Golden nodding and putting a hand under her pillow to keep it in place, the backpack lying at her feet. She put her hand on her chest, wishing her family sweet dreams, and thinking of them, wherever they were…and soon, drifted off to sleep, Prisma gazing at her small form wistfully as she closed her eyes. Golden and her little sister were very alike, she’d once treasured Azurine…and they both had that brightness to them that made the entire room light up. Sora put a hand on her shoulder, and Prisma touched her locket, growing determined to complete this quest, and they bundled up for the night, curling up in their sleeping bags as the fire died and the sounds of the blizzard outside echoed, Prisma making sure she wasn’t too far from the kid as the moon watched over them all.
Back at the castle, Aero had rushed up to the door and knocked on it several times in a hurry. When no one answered, she grew worried and knocked more frantically. “Yen Sid?” she called out. “Are you in? Yen Sid? Hey, open up!” Star slowly peeked out of her robe pockets, and noticed something starting to shine and sparkle, and started pulling at her sleeve, squeaking urgently. “Hold on, Star…” she murmured, “I’m just waiting for Yen Sid. Gosh, I hope everyone’s okay…!” There was a flash and a burst, startling Aero who yelped in fright as she fell against the door. Out of the flash appeared Yen Sid and his apprentices, as well as Ambrose clutching the muse in his hands. Once the light had vanished, Aero remained in stunned silence as everyone now stood before her, with Star giving an enthusiastic wave of it’s tiny little arms. “HUH? Yen Sid!” Aero cried, almost sliding down the door in surprise. “W-what are you doing there? I thought you were inside!” Yen Sid blinked as he was snapped out of his thoughts, seeing a rather flustered Aero in front of him. He let go of Mickey’s hand and reached into his pocket for the doorkeys, while Percy went to give Aero a hand and helped her up, she now looked a little more composed, though still concerned. “I got your text, Mickey.” she said, Star hopping onto her shoulder and sitting snuggly. “What’s going on?” Mickey beckoned her inside as Yen Sid and the others all clambered in, he looked behind him, Mum and the Wayfinders had just arrived, the latter all riding on their keyblade gliders in their armour. “We’ll explain once we are all inside, Aero.” said Mickey, he looked a little anxious as he led them all in. “But, just so you know…it’s about Golden.” Aero’s eyes widened, biting her lip as her thoughts already began to cloud with uncertain ideas, she quickly ran inside the workshop with Star, while Mum had already caught up next to Mickey, looking confused and slightly worried. “Golden, did you say, Mickey?” she asked softly. “I hope my theory isn’t true…!” Mickey didn’t have time to ask Mum what her ‘theory’ was, but whatever it was, it wasn’t a good one. Mickey soon joined everyone inside in the living room, Terra, Ventus and Aqua at his side, taking off their armoured helmets in a hurry. “We came as soon as we received word,” said Terra. “Yen Sid, what’s going on?” Yen Sid sat down in his chair, a gruff sigh escaping his throat as he shut his eyes. “A very serious problem.” he uttered gravely. “Golden has…well, she has run off. On a terrible mission, she is off in the realms, searching with two accomplices…” Aero fell back into her seat, with Star falling off her shoulder and rolling into Ventus’s hands, catching it. “Woah, one thing at a time, Yen Sid!” cried Aero, her eyes were already spinning. “Why has Golden run away? Where would she go!?” Yen Sid opened his eyes, seeing everyone’s faces watching him, anxiously anticipating what he was about to say, especially Mum, who’s hands appeared to be shaking a little. “To those I haven’t explained to…” Yen Sid continued, his frown now more intense than before. “You’ve all heard of the Wicked Nine?” There was a sharp chill in the air, as if the whole room had been encased in ice. Sonatina’s hands moved up to her mouth, she looked shocked. “Mum? Hey, you alright?” Scout asked, concerned for her mother and patting her on the shoulder. Sonatina sighed deeply, looking toward Yen Sid solemnly as she took her teenage daughter’s hands. “I had a terrible thought.” she began, her voice barely above a whisper. “When I discovered one of my books was missing. It was…the very same book Golden was reading when she and Percy visited the other day.” Percy gasped silently, clenching his hand tightly, his knuckles appearing white. “The book of…Vor?” he said. “Lumen…she…she took it, didn’t she?” Star squeaked curiously, hopping out of Ventus’s hands and floating over to Sonatina, noticing her apparent distress. “If she’s out there looking for the Wicked Nine, I am afraid to say, yes…” Sonatina sighed sadly. “I noticed that the book about Vor and the Wicked Nine was missing. When Golden visited, it scared her and caused her to glitch and panic, so I put it out of her reach and her sight. I should have known her to be crafty though, and that she’d take it from under my nose.” Sonatina balled her fists, guilt overriding her as she sat down on the sofa, with Star patting her on the cheek as a way to comfort her. The Wayfinders all looked at each other, trying to grasp exactly what they had just heard. Aqua tapped her mouth in thought, looking to Terra curiously. “Wicked Nine…” she muttered. “Terra? Does that sound familiar to you?” The older boy shook his head slowly, he seemed to rack his brain at the idea. “Not a lot, but…” his eyes suddenly lit up with a realisation. “Come to think of it, didn’t Master Eraqus once talk about…objects of evil before? I thought it was just a story told to us as children.” Yen Sid stood up from his chair, nodding as Terra brought up Eraqus, and the aforementioned objects. “You are correct, Terra.” he said. “As protectors of the light, you all, as well as Eraqus and I, were once told the tale of the Wicked Nine. And those objects are indeed real, we cannot allow them to be put together and completed, for it will spell a dark, most catastrophic outcome if so.” Everyone grew silent, except for Oswald stomping his foot, and crossing his arms with a frustrated look on his face. “But…it might appear that the Wicked Nine WILL become complete.” he snarked. “Now that our little sister has gone to the dark side!” The very idea made Aero shudder, she couldn’t help but feel a chill in thinking Golden might be in big trouble, perhaps out performing bad or evil deeds, whatever the intention. “Come on, you don’t seriously think she has, do you?” she asked anxiously, Julius responded with a shrug, stepping over to Oswald and folding his own arms in turn, though he wore a small smirk instead. “Oh, I dunno, Aero…” he said airily, and started to count on his fingers. “I mean, she’s stolen a book from Mum, she’s run away with two strangers, though I THINK we know one of ‘em already…is making deals with villains, all in the name of getting the Wicked Nine! Seems pretty bad and evil to me…” Mickey held up his hands, grinning sheepishly at his brothers. “Now now, Julius…” he smiled, trying to quell their frustration. “Let’s not jump to conclusions.” Then Oswald suddenly threw his arms in the air, an exasperated sigh leaving his throat in the midst of his annoyance. “She’s a BADDIE, Mick!” he hollered, “The next time we see her she’ll probably be sporting a top hat and suit like Dr Facilier or wearing an eye patch like Captain Hook! What are the odds she’ll completely turn against us!?” Oswald looked ready to rant on, but Mickey just slapped his own forehead, subtly rolling his eyes in Oswald’s direction. “Ossie, first off, just because Golden is trying to find all of the Wicked Nine it doesn’t mean she has completely turned against us!” he explained in a dissatisfied tone. “And second, Ossie, I think you need more coffee, Captain Hook may be a pirate but he doesn’t wear an eyepatch.” If Oswald was a kettle, he’d be blowing his top and his ears would likely shoot off like rockets with steam, but before his tantrum could commence, Yen Sid spoke in a loud, yet deep commanding voice. “That’s enough!” he boomed, silencing the three toon boys on the spot. Star squeaked and flew into Aero’s pocket, its eyes peeking through the gap, while Percy cringed slightly at the level of volume Yen Sid had used, it was like having been summoned or called as ‘Percival.’ Yen Sid grunted under his breath, beginning to regain his composure a little. “Now isn’t the time to squabble.” he said sternly, folding his hands into his sleeves. “We need to think and discuss things properly. Our priority is getting Golden home, but with some of the objects of the Wicked Nine on hand…we might be able to store them away from evil…I could consult the council. And…if it comes to that, we might be able to find Golden before she finds the rest, we will retrieve them instead, and then, hopefully…destroy them.” Several members of the family perked their heads up, exchanging glances with curiosity, hope, but also worry. “I don’t know if we can, dad.” said Mickey, anxiously tugging on Yen Sid’s sleeve for some comfort. “I mean…how do you destroy the Wicked Nine? And how do we get them all together without summoning Vor?” Yen Sid turned to his youngest son, and gave him a soft smile as he patted him on the head gently. “It is possible…” the sorcerer spoke in a soothing tone, and addressed it to everyone else in the room too. “They can only summon the witch if the locket of Vor is with them. The locket was lost for the longest time, and everyone hoped it was gone for good. However, I don’t believe anything can truly be lost to time, unless it is completely destroyed. It is unlikely Golden will have it, or know where it is, so if she intends to destroy them, I can do that with the ones we find, and she can do the rest.” This whole plan put everyone into thought, thinking the plan through the way Yen Sid had explained. Mickey smiled a little, feeling hopeful about destroying the objects and bringing Golden home. Oswald however didn’t appear to be too onboard. “So what you’re saying is…” he said. “We…take the objects…and destroy them ourselves?!” His reaction almost made Mickey laugh, who gently patted his brother’s back. Yen Sid gave a single nod of approval, and stood back up. “Precisely,” he replied. “Now, I recommend we all set out immediately. Get ready, and we’ll use the muse to locate Golden once more. I just hope we aren’t too late.” Ambrose smiled at his brother, liking the leadership he was displaying and the confidence we gave everyone. He went to retrieve the muse once more, while Ventus looked geared up to set out on the rescue mission. “We’ve got this!” he cheered, pumping his fists into the air. “We saved Golden before, we’ll do it again!” With a side glance, Percy couldn’t help but subtlety smirk at his comment. “Maybe for you Wayfinders…” he whispered slyly. “But we’ve had to rescue that little escape several times over…I swear I will punt anyone who hurts my Lumen!” Everyone then set off to get ready and prepare, leaving Yen Sid alone in the living room. He couldn’t shake the feeling that something terrible was afoot, and that there was a noticeable absence of Starlight.
The sun arose over the horizon, filling the small log cabin with light as it streamed through the windows. Sora groaned at the sight, rubbing his eyes and walking into the bathroom to freshen up, his footsteps causing Golden to stir, though she didn’t quite awaken. Prisma yawned, trying to tame her hair with a handy comb, and brushing off her dress, it seemed whoever lived here before had pets, as there was little hairs all over the sleeping bag, another reminder of the fact they’d all much rather be home, but the quest was top priority. She turned around, seeing Golden curled up, her thumb in her mouth and snuggled under the big blanket, she really was just a little girl, not even ten years old and yet she was doing this alone, without her parents or anyone else to take care of her- she was wholly reliant on Prisma and Sora. Prisma shook her shoulder, causing the girl to mumble as she started to wake up. “Golden, up. We have to move.” she hissed, Golden giving a sleepy groan and rubbing her eyes, sitting up and blinking, turning to face Prisma with tired eyes, indicating she’d had a rough night of nightmares yet again. “You okay, kid?” Sora called, coming out of the bathroom with his hair now combed, and looking down at her. Golden nodded slightly, but then looked uncertain. “I…saw bits of that dream again… why won’t it go away Prisma…?” she mumbled, Prisma shrugging and turning around, folding up the sleeping bags. “It will soon, I think we’re gonna complete this today. Come on, let’s get going.” she practically commanded, Golden agreeing and ducking into the bathroom, locking the door. She tried to quell the uneasiness she felt- she wasn’t even sure if Prisma was the real thing when she awoke, having seen her so vividly in her nightmare, and struggling to process it all. Those searing purple eyes were burned into her brain, and as she washed her face, she couldn’t help but feel nervous, the cold water helping to wake her up. Opening the door, they stepped out into a beautiful expanse of snow, twinkling in the sunlight and making Golden gasp in amazement as she held her backpack, it reminded her of Christmas Day, and waking up to see snow covering the entire castle, twinkling just like this…she smiled and started to run around in it, pulling out her hat, scarf and gloves and playfully chucking a snowball at Sora, who sliced it perfectly in two with his keyblade, and throwing one back. Prisma rolled her eyes. “Guys, we need to move, come on!” she insisted, Golden nodding. “Kay…” she mumbled, before Sora caught her eye and made a snowball, chucking it at Prisma’s head, who didn’t move at first, but immediately turned around to face them, glaring. “If you two want to mess around, then be my guest, but it won’t be my fault when your family suffers because of you, Golden.” she spoke, Golden’s heart skipping a beat at the words and the little girl hanging her head. “Sorry…” she mumbled, Sora walking ahead and Golden following behind, leaving footprints in the snow as the cabin got smaller in the distance, the group walking down to a village. It was teeming with life, so many people greeting them and recognizing Sora from his adventures, though some of them seemed a little nervous…Golden chalked it up to him being a feared keyblade warrior, though he was pretty harmless, as far as she could tell.
They eventually reached an old antique shop, where there was a man with a monocle and top hat, who tipped his hat as the bell rang to signal customers. “Hello, how may I help?” he called from behind his desk, Golden’s eyes wandering over all the beautiful antiques on display…there were necklaces, brooches, even some old wands and muses from past sorcerers, or retired people…she wanted to stay and look, but Prisma seemed keen to press on, perhaps being reminded of Azurine last night had made her a little cranky, or she hadn’t slept well…Golden fiddled with her sleeve, feeling the words echoing in her mind, especially since she hadn’t been the one to even throw the snowball, it felt as if she was getting in trouble for nothing, and she held back the tears as the sadness set in, managing to keep it down as Prisma started to speak. “We’re just browsing, though I don’t suppose you have any keys in your stock?” she spoke, the merchant nodding. “Keys, you say? I suppose so, hang on…” he smiled, heading into the back of his shop and browsing amongst the shelves, bringing out a little rack. “These are all the ones I have, feel free to take a look…” he said, presenting them to the trio. Golden looked over them, and then back at her journal, and pointed. “There! That’s the one!” she grinned, the merchant taking it off the rack and holding it up. “Strange, I don’t recall this one…I don’t know where it’s from, it feels…off. I can’t say I’m fond of it, but it does appear quite pristine and old, without any scratches or stains…how does 100 coins for it sound to you?” he bargained, Golden looking nervous at the thought. “100 coins? What?! But…but I don’t have that-” she was cut off by Prisma throwing a coin bag on the counter, taking the key quickly and slipping it into Golden’s backpack. Her face appeared quite cold, she was clearly very focused on this mission today. “You can keep the change, thanks for the key.” she spoke, the merchant and Golden alike being taken back, whilst Sora was in another part of the shop, browsing keychains for keyblades, there seemed to be some rather interesting ones. Unbeknownst to them, he slipped one or two into his pocket, which already had something inside, and then turned around, acting as if everything was fine. “Oh…right, pleasure doing business with you, ma’am.” the merchant smiled, Prisma turning on her heel and clicking to get Sora’s attention, who walked over to her, whilst Golden shyly waved at the merchant, who gave her a wink. She seemed rather young…were these her siblings or parents? None of them looked particularly old, but he wondered what they were doing around here, and why…it intrigued him, every story did, and that’s why he collected antiques. Every object has a story, and every story is worth telling, to those who will listen.
Leaving the store, the muse began to guide them to another location, Sora turning to face Golden, who still looked a little glum. “Betcha didn’t think Prisma was loaded, huh kid?” he grinned, Golden forcing a smile and shaking her head. “No…I…thought maybe you had some money, because your belt and clothes are pretty, but…” she faltered, not wanting to offend Prisma, though the girl seemed much brighter, maybe she was like Oswald, cranky in the morning? “I have my ways, haha! That was pretty easy, right?” Prisma giggled, motioning for Golden to hold her hand, who accepted and kept her scarf close to her face, though it appeared the blizzard had long passed, and now it was sunny, snow starting to melt and revealing blossoms below their feet. “Yeah…where is Lady Tremaine, do you think?” she asked, Sora shrugging. “Dunno, last I heard she was defeated by Aqua, actually…I wonder if she and those brats…sorry, daughters of hers went to live somewhere else?” he wondered, Prisma pondering too. “That’s a bit too easy for a villain to walk away, though…I wonder if she’s in hiding?” she mused, Golden shrugging. “Whatever the case I’m just glad we didn’t run into her…I heard her glare rivalled Master Grey, hehe!” she giggled, and then reached into her bag and ticked off another item, only two more…hopefully by sundown, this would all be over, and she’d be able to curl up in her nice warm bed, with Starlight by her side and under her starry duvet, perhaps she’d even put up her old mobile for nostalgia…Yen Sid used to play the most beautiful music on it, and even if it was a little babyish, it would be nice to hear those old tunes again, but she was snapped out of her thoughts by Sora playfully punching her on the arm. “So, just two items left, hikari beacon?” he grinned, Golden nodding. “The…sundrop flower, it’s really pretty, and…what name is this? Doctor… F-Facilier?” she tried, Prisma nodding to confirm. “Doctor Facilier. The sundrop flower is easy to retrieve, you just gotta grab it from the ground, but the hat is a little tricky, I think we’ve gotta grab that from the shadow man himself.” she pondered, Golden turning in surprise. “How do you know that, Prisma?” she asked, Prisma shrugging and reaching down to playfully ruffle Golden’s hair. “I did my research too, you know!” she giggled, Sora nodding to confirm and lifting Golden up, so now she was sitting on his shoulders. “Let’s save your feet and energy for a bit, wouldn’t want you getting knocked out.” he smiled, Golden messing with his hair as they walked, and they soon got closer to the area where the shadow man dwelt. “Look at all the progress we’ve made, we’re the dream team!” Prisma cheered, Golden glad she wasn’t as grouchy anymore and nodded. “Yeah…hehe! Dream team!” she raised her hand to cheer. She couldn’t help but feel nervous, though, since she had so many items in her bag now, and all of them were very dark, and very dangerous, but as long as they all stayed far away from her family…she didn’t want to be the reason they suffered, or burden them…even if they told her she was never a burden, she couldn’t help but feel like a hindrance sometimes. “Let’s go, gang!” Sora cheered, and they headed off as the sun rose more in the sky, painting the landscape with rays and melting away the snow.
Meanwhile, Yen Sid gathered everyone together, Ambrose, Sonatina, the Wayfinders and all of his apprentices, were all close by as he began a recreation spell over his skull ornament. He had decided the best course of action was to first try and see which items were already gathered together, and which ones were left. The spell visually sent them back a little, locating them at the bottom of a castle, surrounded by rubble, a castle that was now empty, minus a single claw that had been taken, the claw of Mor’Du. Yen Sid waved his arms once again, taking them all to a mountaintop, and missing from where it was once placed, the sword of Shan Yu. “Awww no! We’re too late!” Oswald cried and gripped at his ears tightly. “They must have at least six by now! Maybe even more! What if they’ve found Vor’s locket by now?!” He was quieted by Yen Sid placing his hand between his ears, gently massaging his palm into the rabbit’s head, the sorcerer looked down with a cool and collected expression. “Oswald, please calm yourself.” he said soothingly, before glancing back at the snowy mountains before them. “However, with what we can see here, we might have to reconsider our plan.” They all turned to Aqua as she cleared her throat for their attention. She looked somewhat chipper, like she already knew what they could do. “You look like you have a plan, Aqua!” said Aero, to which the keyblade master nodded in confirmation. “It’s just an idea, but hear me out.” Aqua started, motioning her hands as she began to explain. “Why don’t we try and help Golden? Help her find the rest of the items and destroy them once they are together? Maybe if we can find out where they are planning to go next, we can follow and maybe make things a little easier for her?” Yen Sid let out a low hum, stroking his beard as he’d often do when he was deep in thought, a trait recognisable to anyone who knew him. “Aqua…you might be onto something here,” he said. “If we went along with that plan, it could save us all the trouble of looking all over for them, possibly in the opposite of Golden’s direction…In doing so, we can also keep Golden safe and out of harm’s way.” He continued stroking his beard, thinking. Terra and Ventus all smiled at Aqua, feeling proud of her, making Aqua turn away slightly, feeling humble and sheepish. “Come on, I’m not the brains!” she giggled, Terra could only put his arm around her, much like a silly yet doting older brother. “Don’t give us that.” he grinned at her. “You’ve always been the smart one, Aqua. I’m the tough guy, and Ven is the cute one!” Everyone laughed at this, giving a lighthearted air to the slightly formidable atmosphere they were all currently going through. Then Mickey raised his hand, he appeared inquisitive, and a little concerned. “Umm, guys? I’m not so sure.” he said, making everyone stop and turn his way, making his cheeks flush pink as all eyes laid upon him. “Uhh, I’m just saying…but do you think Golden will want us there? What if she sees us and gets scared? If she had this dream about all of us getting hurt, especially…you, dad…m-maybe it might be better t-to…stay away?” That theory was concerning, especially with how Golden had acted last time, she looked to be on the verge of a panic attack before she glitched away. Aero looked to Star, who squished it’s tiny self against her cheek with encouragement, she then turned to Mickey, reaching out to rub his ear, much like how Yen Sid does for him. “I understand why you’d say that, Mickey.” she answered softly. “You’re thinking of Golden’s best interests, honestly, they’d be my first thoughts too.” The young mouse smiled up at her, giggling slightly as she rubbed his ear, making him feel a little better. Terra then stepped forward, both his arms now around Aqua and Ventus in a supportive gesture. “What you say makes perfect sense.” he stated, smiling down at Mickey and then toward the group. “But you all recall this, right? Her future sight thanks to her glitch…If there’s danger, and we are in the vicinity, her future sight would surely tell us before it happens? And call me crazy, but I think if she’s with that other girl, and especially with Sora, then there is nothing to worry about, or be afraid of.” Aqua began to laugh, giving Terra a playful nudge, almost pushing him over onto Ambrose. “Now who’s the brains, huh?” she giggled playfully, winking at her teammate, Terra merely smiled and waved it off as if it was nothing. “You’re right Terra!” chuckled Ventus with amusement. “What’s a dangerous bunch of foes against all of us, right Mickey?” Mickey too smiled and laughed, giving Ventus a quick bump of the fist. “Right! Now, first things first, right dad?” Mickey said as he peered up at the tall sorcerer. “What’s the first step to Aqua’s awesome plan? Back to the castle?” Yen Sid began to wave his arms in the reverse way from before, effectively reversing the spell and taking them back to the start. “Yes Mickey, I’ll cast a spell that will let me monitor one of the items.” he described. “It’ll be a bit of a strain to cast, but I can manage it. Once they find…mmm, ah…let’s say the golden flower, then all together, we will head out once again.”
The trio had wandered far, still following the continuous glowing and beeping of the muse, guiding them from a peaceful village to the hectic streets of a city, one to the north of Fioritura. Golden had visited it once or twice when she was younger, along with everyone else, but Yen Sid tended to stay away from the cities outside of Fioritura, since they were unknown territories and potentially held a lot of danger for his young, vulnerable apprentices. And considering a villain dwelt here, it was no surprise. They were miles away from the cabin and mountains, and the skyscrapers reflected the sunlight off their glass, signs hanging down from various businesses in the area, from cauldron-sellers to ballgowns. The muse beeped near a shadowy, closed-off alley, Golden feeling her nerves begin at the sight, and what it reminded her of, especially when she saw a cockroach scurry under a nearby bin. She rubbed at her arms, as if trying to get rid of the feeling of a million tiny legs scurrying up and down her skin, and stared at the alley ahead, turning to face Sora and Prisma. “Well this isn’t creepy at all!” she joked, Prisma nodding and seeming to hold her locket a little tighter, perhaps she was slightly fearful. “Well, we’ve found our next guy. He’s charismatic, that’s for sure…but don’t let it fool you, he’s as dangerous as they get.” she warned, Sora attaching one of the stolen keychains to his keyblade for extra protection, it shone and changed forms, becoming purple, decorated with a little mask at the end, almost matching Facilier’s vibe perfectly. “Helps me blend in.” he explained, Golden nodding…she almost wanted to try holding the keyblade, perhaps he’d let her have a turn? She turned around, noticing how the shadows almost increased as she walked. “I…I don’t doubt he’s dangerous, it’s like I can feel the shadows…” she whispered, rubbing her arms and feeling a pain starting in her head, as all of them pushed open a purple door that was three times the size of them. The room inside was even darker than the outside, walls lined with decorations, a little skull sitting on a shelf that made Golden shiver as she passed it, reaching a hand behind her head to pinpoint the exact location she felt the pain…it wasn’t too bad, but it still stung. Sora watched as some little voodoo dolls collected at his feet, giggling and moving around- he had to be careful not to step on them, and threateningly waved his keyblade toward them. “Now now, none of that.” a voice called, a light suddenly turning on and illuminating a table, where a lean, tall man sat, legs crossed and atop the pink cloth atop it, holding several cards between his fingers and shuffling them. “Well, well! New customers, it seems! And two fine young ladies, and a young man too, how charming…there couldn’t be seeds of romance between two of you, could there? The cards will tell…” he chuckled, extending a hand with several tarot cards in between his fingers. Golden stared at them curiously, she’d never had her fortune told, since Yen Sid didn’t consider that sort of sorcery a real type of magic…he said there used to be foretellers with accurate predictions, but they’d all but vanished, leaving nothing but party tricks. Nevertheless, she tried to resist the temptation to take a card, but Prisma spoke before she could. “I’ll cut to the chase, doctor. We need your hat.” she smiled, Facilier being taken aback, raising an eyebrow as his face dropped. “Excuse me?” he replied, making the cards disappear and twirling the hat around his finger, reaching inside for a moment and Golden feeling the head pain increase slightly, wondering what it could be… despite that, she nodded. “We really need it, D-doctor …please?” the little girl smiled, Prisma looking down at her reassuringly. “It’s simple. I’ve got two new sidekicks on my team for a special summoning, one I’m sure will tickle your fancy. With your hat and one more item, we’ll be bringing Vor back, and you know what that means?” she winked, Facilier sitting up straight and switching his hat between his hands, in the flurry Golden swore she saw him remove something from inside, but he was too fast to tell. “Ohhh, why you clever little fox, some really can’t resist the temptation, can they? Well, here you are, my little dear…now, don’t take too long, I don’t like those who don’t keep their bargains…” he smirked, placing the hat on top of Sora’s head and pulling it down, the boy struggling to get it off. “Yeah yeah, heard it all…don’t you worry your pretty head, we’ll all be keeping our side of the bargain…” Prisma giggled, Golden nodding and keeping up the charade with a playful salute, despite everything, Facilier seemed relatively easy to talk to! She still wasn’t sure what the head pain was, but a rumbling in her stomach made her realise she hadn’t eaten anything that morning…that would explain the headache! “Thanks Doc, we’ll be taking our leave now.” Sora smiled, finally having got the hat off his head and handing it to Golden, who put it carefully in her backpack, which was almost too full…thank goodness they were on their last item. Facilier nodded, and began playing with his cards again. “Good luck with bringing her back…but know this, if things happen to go wrong with the hat, it’s not me you should worry about…but my friends on the other side.” he stood up, smirking slightly, and the room went dark, only illuminated by the occasional flickering of candles that were illuminated from nowhere, the witch doctor disappearing and leaving the trio in darkness. “The exit, that way!” Golden called, seeing the light still streaming from the open door, as the walls seemed to move and come alive with shadows, all staring down at the group. Sora raised his keyblade, and they seemed to shrink back from it, but some of them seemed to stare at Golden, cackling and making her shiver slightly, though she managed to resist a yelp. Finally, they got out into the light again, though, Sora putting a palm over his eyes to shield him from the sun, which was about ready to go down. “I realised…I didn’t eat anything.” Golden admitted, Prisma and Sora raising an eyebrow. “If you need food, we could’ve shared.” Sora shrugged, but she shook her head, pulling out the last of her food supply, a simple sandwich she hoped was still good. “It’s okay…let’s get the last item, and then we can finally all go home…” she sighed, starting to munch as they walked on, though her head still stung slightly from whatever that was…luckily, the pain was ebbing. Prisma smiled. “It’s the easiest one, this one! And you know what? I think you should be the one to pluck it from the ground!” she grinned, Golden looking up at her in surprise, and swallowing before she replied. “Oh? Why’s that?” she asked, brushing away crumbs from the corners of her mouth, she hadn’t realised quite how ravenous she was until that moment. “Nothing really, I just figured it was only fair that you got to do one, we did the last two, well, I did!” Prisma chuckled, Sora nodding. “We’re a team, we did this together, remember? And we’ll see it through, all of us!” he grinned, sweeping Golden up and Prisma swinging her, so she was lifted up and giggling with glee. “Wheee! Yeah! A team! And soon…everything will be okay again!” she grinned, both teens nodding. “Yep, everything will be just perfect…”
An alert. Yen Sid’s spell was beginning to activate, it flashed like a lighthouse beacon as the others all caught the sound of the spell’s alert, forming a circle around Yen Sid. “It’s time. They are heading for the flower.” he said quickly, giving his hands a quick wave and a swirling motion. “We should get going now.” Aero grinned, feeling quite excited to partake in the next part of the mission and bounced on her toes. “Alright, let's go!” she cheered, a giggle escaping her throat. “Haha! What are we gonna do? Anyone wanna teleport? Or does anyone want a ride in my tornado? It’s really fun!” Ventus beamed at the latter idea, already summoning his keyblade to transform into his vehicle to hover on. “Oooh I’m up for that!” he exclaimed brightly. “Can we fly, Aqua? Pretty please, Terra?? Can we, can we, Yen Sid pleeeease?!” He and Aero gave the biggest, sparkly puppy eyes at Yen Sid, who should have been exasperated by their behaviour, but instead, he simply chuckled, pulling Aero’s hat down over her face a little with a good natured grin. “I don’t see why not.” he teased gently, eyeing one of his other apprentices giving him the same wide eyed look. “Haha, it seems you want to go that route too, Percy?” The light man nodded vigorously, punching at his chest softly with enthusiasm before transforming into his iconic ball of glowing light. “How could I NOT at this given opportunity?” he gasped, whizzing around Yen Sid’s head like an excited glowing bird. “Life is to be LIVED!” Yen Sid and Ambrose chuckled at his behaviour, his humour was quite contagious and much needed at this moment, and everyone was thankful for it. Yen Sid turned back to Aero as she casually adjusted her hat, and of which by now everyone had reached for theirs, placing them on their heads. “Aero, using your flying skills, and your magic through the tornado doesn’t use up too much energy, does it?” He asked her, Aero simply reached into her robe, pulling out her wand and her special paintbrush, placing one over the other to begin the starting process of the flight spell. “Not at all!” She chortled. “If you keep it at a steady pace, it’s like the equivalent of walking! So all in all, it doesn’t really reduce any of my energy, it actually enhances it!” She aimed the paintbrush at a fair distance, before firing a shot of paint, then she thrusted her wand with one swing, creating a wind spell that hit the paint, merging to create a thick, whirling tornado. She gave her wand another spin, and everyone began to slowly leave the ground, levitating toward the tornado and taking a ride inside, it was like being on Rocket, except a lot more windy! “Woah! Hey, get back here, hat!” Mickey cried, grabbing onto the bring on his training hat, while being sat between Mum and Aqua, everyone was sat closely together, even though Aero was determined to not let anyone blow away. “Ahhh!! Woah, you do this all the time Aero!?” Oswald shouted over the bellows of the tornado, narrowly avoiding Ventus’s flailing arms as if he was on a rollercoaster. “It’s not fair!” Aero laughed, the wind blowing all of her hair back as they rose higher and higher, reaching up to the clouds. Several clouds began to get caught in the cyclone, turning into white, swirling wisps that went across like an ice cream cone. In the corner of his eye, something caught Yen Sid’s attention, something was flying toward them, and it wasn’t debris, though it appeared to be out of control. As it drew nearer and nearer, he gasped and held out his hands to catch it. “Julius, hold onto my hat, please!” he ordered, prompting Julius to hastily grab his dad’s hat, holding it to his head. “Ahhhhggg what’s going on?!” a voice shouted out, coming from what was hurtling toward the group, and landed in Yen Sid’s arms with an ‘oof!’ Looking down, Yen Sid let out a chuckle and breathed a sigh of relief, gently petting the tiny glowworm he had just saved. “Ohohoho! There you are, Starlight!” he grinned, seeing how windswept and frazzled Starlight looked. “I was wondering where you might have been, little one.” Starlight gave a huff and clung to Yen Sid’s robes, a little worried she’d get blown away. “I hate to say it, but I got a little lost!” she cried out. “I had spent the last few nights trying to protect Goldie’s dreams, I know that had been hurting her! I might have skipped a sleep or two so I was just catching up on a little cloud while trying to get home, and suddenly whooooshed! Aero and her crazy tornado suddenly showed up!!” Yen Sid couldn’t help but laugh again, gently rubbing Starlight on the head, giving her a protective hug as she held onto him. “Well, at least we’re all together again.” he smiled. “And soon, Golden will be too. Now, just sit here Starlight, we will soon be arriving, and we need to be prepared.” He carefully sat her in Aero’s lap, where Star was also sitting in, and excitedly squeaked and twinkled at seeing it’s friend. Wrapping themselves up in Aero’s robe, Star and Starlight sat together as everyone soon parted through the clouds, ready to come in for a quick landing. “Slow down!! I’m gonna fall off!” yelled Oswald dramatically, wrapping his arms around Julius, who stared up at Oswald’s long ears as they blew in the wind like ribbons. “Ahem, Oswald? May I remind you that you have helicopter ears to fly?” Julius pointed out, though his little brother was not convinced, shaking his head stubbornly as he held on. “I don’t use ‘em in these conditions, Julius!” he answered back. “Besides, it would sap my strength, gotta save it for when I’m kicking villain butt!”
Reaching a cliffside, they clambered up a rickety old ladder, one Golden was praying wouldn’t fall apart and send them tumbling all the way down, either back to the beginning or to their deaths…given the choice, she’d probably pick death due to how tiring and draining this quest had been, though of course that was just her exhaustion talking. She rubbed her eyes with her free hand, and reached the top, Prisma and Sora pulling her up as she struggled slightly with the weight of the items, though gave a relieved smile when she saw the golden flower…things tended to grow and act strangely here, as if pieces of realms were lodged into the fabric of Fioritura, stories being lifted from the Fairytale Realm and finding their way here, like castles and the wicked nine…perhaps even the magic of Luminosa was entangled with the realms, after all, they all came from Kingdom Hearts, and evolved from fragments of its power, and became whole. She shrugged off her musing, though, and tucked the muse into her backpack, having been levitating it with magic whilst climbing. The flower shone and sparkled in the sunset, glimmering with power and light, and as Golden touched the petals, she felt the healing magic inside, as if it was healing some unnoticed wounds, and making her better. She smiled, and felt the warmth from it, simply taking a moment to let her heart rate slow and become calm and tranquil, Sora and Prisma sharing a glance. “It’s…beautiful.” Golden whispered, Prisma smiling. “Go on, dig it up!” she encouraged, throwing a spade. Golden didn’t even wonder where it came from, just focusing on the task at hand, and gently removed it from the ground, roots and all, to try and make sure the bud was as safe and comfortable as possible. “Don’t worry little flower, you’ll be back soon enough…I hope…” she mumbled, turning to look at Sora. “Hey…do we have to destroy the flower? It isn’t dangerous…” she asked, the two older people shrugging. “As far as we’re aware, they all hold pieces of the ring, that’s why we need ‘em. I don’t know what would happen if you didn’t destroy the flower…looks like we gotta snuff out one little light.” Sora replied, Golden frowning slightly, she didn’t like to hurt others without reason, she still had to go back and get those poor polyps, among other things…she took a deep breath, though, and noticed Prisma was building two containers out of crystals, holding one out to Golden. “Okay, in it goes!” she grinned, Golden nodding and gently putting the flower inside, using a spell to water it and make sure it was comfortable…she figured Uncle Ambrose did the same with the plants he took care of, too. Prisma helped her up, and then grinned. “We know just the place to go with these, right?” she smiled, turning to Sora who nodded, and held out his keyblade, creating a beam. Prisma threw a mirror, refracting the beam, and the mirror grew in size, turning one of the flat cliff walls into a doorway. Golden nearly gasped, once again, this magic was completely foreign, and she wanted to learn it all! “Amazing!” she giggled, Prisma grinning as the mirror became completely expanded, opening like a door on hinges and bringing them into a gateway, full of mirrors just like it. Golden took it in, it was a room full of crystals…it was beautiful, but…she recognized it, too. She got a nagging feeling in her gut, and couldn’t help but freeze as her hands started to glitch, though she wasn’t sure why. Prisma turned, and snapped her fingers, remembering that little detail. “Welcome to the mirror realm, kid! A pocket dimension where we can put all these items!” she proclaimed, Sora nodding and reaching for Golden’s backpack, who handed it to him as he rifled through it, tossing the muse aside and forcing the little girl to catch it. “Sora, careful…if you break that I won’t be able to get home!” she fretted, feeling anxieties twisting themselves up inside her, and trying to count to ten…until it was interrupted by Prisma taking her glitching hand, shocking her once more out of her panic. “Ready for me to help, kid? This other container’s for those annoying little glitchy powers that cause you all that anxiety!” she smiled, Golden giving a slight nod and remembering…Prisma wanted to help her subdue her powers, to keep her from feeling so panicky and nervous all the time. Prisma got onto her knees, and held out the container. “Alright…show me the source of your power.” she commanded, Sora casting an intrigued eye down onto the scene, curious about where this might go. Obediently, Golden put both hands on her chest, drawing out her sparkling, shimmering golden heart, which Prisma examined carefully. “That’s…odd.” she muttered, sneaking a glance at Sora, who looked both puzzled and curious about the prospects of this source. “It’s a special source, isn’t it? Unique…and you’d like it to be calmed down, right?” Prisma smiled, Golden nodding, almost reminded of the last time she’d done something like this, with that reflection and that mirror…deep down, something stirred. Was she making the right choice? “Wait…Prisma…?” she tried, but Prisma suddenly took the heart out of her reach, standing up and looking down at the little girl, no longer as warm as she’d just been. Golden felt the colour draining out of her face…this was just like last time, she’d done it again! She was…she was absolutely stupid! “Prisma! Give it back…I-I need that…!” She stumbled on her feet, feeling the faintness begin, and put a hand against the wall to support herself. “Golden, don’t worry! I’m just getting rid of all these hindrances, this future-sight…this revival, it’ll all be gone, and then you’ll have nothing to worry about…” she coaxed, Golden desperately wanting to trust her, but…she just couldn’t. She put a sleeve up to her eyes, wiping away her frightened tears, and tried to walk forward, feeling light-headed and even more exhausted than previously. “Please…I-I…need it…” she whispered, Prisma nodding and casting a spell, one that lit the heart up as if it was aflame, absorbing the fire and putting it inside the container, leaving it completely void…and grey. Sora smirked. “Nice one, Prisma. Don’t worry, everything will feel okay in a second.” he smiled, watching as Golden fell to her knees and tried to support herself, pale as a sheet and looking worse for wear. Prisma walked over to her, having completely trapped the glitching mess inside the box, and tossing it aside, yanking Golden up and stuffing the heart back inside her chest, the little girl sitting against the crystal and catching her breath. “There we go…you’re okay. Now you won’t feel a thing, you won’t have to worry anymore about the sorrow or fear that comes from your heart…from that magic.” Prisma smiled, putting a hand on Golden’s shoulder. Supporting her as she stood, Golden did feel some semblance of relief, seeing now that the Wicked Nine would be destroyed, and Prisma raised her hands, creating a support out of crystals for the items, Sora gazing down at them alongside her. “This has been a long time coming, eh?” she snickered, Sora nodding and snickering too. “Ready, Golden? Thank you for everything, by the way.” Prisma chuckled, putting a hand on her locket as herself and Sora lifted the items, and then the boy stepped back, as a bright green flash enveloped Prisma. And in that moment, Golden knew something was very, very wrong.
“What…what’s going on?!” She called out, but Sora just turned to her with a grin, pointing his keyblade down at her. “Don’t you move, light brat.” he threatened, Golden feeling her heart rate increasing, despite fear feeling so foreign to her…she couldn’t explain it, she knew she was afraid, but it wasn’t easy to feel that fear…like a ghost of emotion. “What…?” was all she could whisper, hushed and barely audible as a sudden wind whipped through the realm, entangling Prisma and enveloping her in magic that no longer looked light and beautiful…but dark. “You’ve made deals, kid. No backing out of them now.” Sora chuckled, a malicious quality entering his voice that he’d done a great job of hiding. Golden watched as Prisma changed, several crystals shattering and mirrors cracking, revealing some things…or some people…hiding just beyond their surfaces. “You…you USED me!” the little girl cried, Sora rolling his eyes. “Surprise.” he snickered, before gripping her arm tight, Golden putting her hands over her eyes as she was forced to her feet. Another voice spoke up, one she’d never heard before, and…despite everything, she peeked through her hands. “Ahhh, that’s far better.” the voice echoed, a female one, though definitely not Prisma’s, nor any foe Golden had faced before. There was only one explanation, and she matched the pictures in the book perfectly, sending tremors down Golden’s spine. “V-Vor…” Golden whispered, voice shaking as she hid her face behind her hands, the witch nodding. “Mhm, thank you so much Prisma, you’ve done a good deed…and you, boy. I feel…positively rejuvenated!” the witch cackled, Sora keeping a hold on her arm and forcing Golden to stay in place. Vor turned toward the child, and smirked at Sora, who gave a grin and picked the kid up by her neck, pointing his keyblade toward her chest. “I have done my part…now you do yours.” Vor spoke, Golden gritting her teeth as she struggled to breathe, flailing slightly despite the threat posed. Sora activated his magic, preparing to complete a goal he’d never accomplished so many years ago, but…something was missing. Something essential…the light was gone.
Vor wondered what was taking so long, but Sora turned. “It’s not working…” he muttered, Vor eyeing the crystal containing all that built up energy. “Now that is interesting…” she mused, reaching for it as Sora dropped Golden, who coughed and struggled for breath, barely able to push herself off the ground, and then feeling the boy’s boot press down on her back, causing her to yelp. “Little one, you really made Prisma’s job so much easier, with that ball of yours…” Vor chuckled, Golden gritting her teeth. “It’s…a muse! And it doesn’t belong to you, or me! It belongs to my dad, Yen Sid, the most powerful sorcerer ever!” she proclaimed, Vor rolling her eyes. “I’ve seen my fair share of powerful sorcerers…” she started, reaching down into the crystal and taking the power inside, holding the glitching mess in her fingertips. Her face changed slightly upon contact with the magic. “Oh…that is intriguing.” she chuckled, and Sora moved closer, kicking Golden’s backpack as he did, the boy then picking it up and rifling through it. “Oh, a book of dreams…” Vor mused, flicking through the pages…so much fear, so much pain was kept within that book, and it enticed the sorceress. “Ohhh, is that a drawing of me? You got my eyes perfectly…” she cackled nastily, flicking through and smirking at the depiction of Yen Sid. “Don’t…don’t you dare hurt anybody! I-I’ll…!” She was cut off by Sora kicking her in the side, causing her to hit her head against one of the crystals…she looked up, seeing the exit, and needed to crawl toward it, desperately… Sora waved his hand, and the door closed, making the other side appear much like an ordinary mirror, unable to see the darkness within. “You’ll what, my dear? Throw your bag at me? You’re nothing, nobody!! Without your magic, you are worthless!” Vor cackled, Golden putting her head into her arms and trying to fight back the tears, but knowing it was true…she really was weak without it, was her heart all that mattered? Was it just as Maleficent and everyone else had once said, that she was just a hollow vessel, a source with an essential piece inside her? Was she, deep down, just a Nobody…? “I’m in a good mood, you know. I want to help all those sweet little nightmares of yours come true.” Vor smirked, Sora chuckling at the idea. Vor raised her hand, and plunged the power into her own heart, gasping slightly as she absorbed it. “What…potential! And so old…how…?” she gasped, Golden’s head spinning and unable to understand what the sorceress could possibly mean by those words. Vor straightened up her crown, and with a swish of her cape, made for the exit, Sora following behind her. “And…didn’t you make some deals, little one? You’ve definitely accomplished bringing me back, but I think a lot of these poor, abused villains want a bit of revenge.” she teased, several mirrors smashing around Golden and the girl barely avoiding the glass, covering her head as it shattered. And reflected in the shards were sights that caused her beaten heart to fly into her mouth…stepping out of the frames, the villains she’d met…and Vor was heading to the exit…Golden squinted, and gasped aloud when she saw who had just arrived on the other side in a flurry of paint. She raced toward the exit with all the strength she had, pushing Vor out the way courageously and trying to bang on the glass, to make her family see she was inside, even screaming until her voice was raw, but it was no use, Sora picking her up by the back of her shirt and ramming her into the glass, so she stumbled around, disoriented. As the doorway opened, Golden rammed into Vor with the last of her strength, who knocked her back with ease, the girl being thrown across the ground and the rest of the villains snickering. Vor chuckled. “She has no power left. So do what you’d like, I care not for her body.” the witch grinned, Golden turning to face the villains, who all sneered down at the shaking girl, who felt her blood freeze in her body, her eyes wide as saucers and unable to control her trembling lips, though she was trying to suppress her frightened whimpers…though at the same time, she felt that she should be more scared, but it was as if she couldn’t summon all her fear, perhaps she was dazed from the thrashing, but no matter what, she was still terrified, and felt that fear of death from her dream returning, as Vor’s purple eyes glinted maliciously. She put both hands on her chest, feeling the tears starting, and her breath hitched, she just wanted to be home, more than anything, playing with the broomies, talking to Percy, even getting teased by Oswald, all of it was leagues better than her current despair. She turned her head, seeing her family, wondering if there was a way to warn them, and Vor smirked. “See you on the other side…” the witch whispered, taking Sora’s arm and stepping over the threshold, the door closing as soon as she did, though the witch couldn’t help but smirk back at the frightened apprentice, knowing she was about to make some dreams come true... Golden ran over as fast as she could, tearfully crying out, begging them to see her, to remember, and yelling out a thousand apologies for her mistakes, but…nobody came.
Descending, Aero lessened the power of the tornado and slowed down to a halt at the cliffside, allowing everyone to step out of the giant whirlwind. Aero gave one last wave of her wand and the tornado disappeared into a soft breeze, a breeze which was soon overpowered by a strange yet formidable atmosphere, even the clouds above were starting to take a sinister shape and were becoming darker. “What’s this?” asked Starlight nervously, huddling closer inside Aero’s robes next to Star. “The skies look angry…where’s Golden?” The air was colder, and it wasn’t to do with how high the cliffs were. Everyone held onto their hats, looking for anything that might be a clue, no matter how small it seemed. “Look! Up there!” cried Ambrose, pointing to the summit of the cliff, something was happening, there were shimmering lights, the sound of distant voices, and the very same, foreboding feeling as when the villains were last together, right after their abduction of Yen Sid. However, this time felt different, and a lot more dangerous. Not wasting time, everyone began to climb the cliffside, with Yen Sid and Ambrose using a small levitation magic to speed up the process and allow everyone to follow them safely. Yen Sid felt a deep sense of unease in his stomach, yet he disguised it under his usual stern exterior for the sake of his apprentices, and was thankful that he had Ambrose for additional support. They went on, further up the summit, and what awaited them was a terrible sight. “Vor…” hissed Yen Sid, his eyes narrowing as the witch turned slowly to greet them, with Sora standing at her side with his keyblade over his shoulder, he smirked nastily as the family of sorcerers caught his eye. Aero gasped, standing back and keeping her wand at the ready, the Wayfinders followed suit with summoning their keyblades, even hovering their hands over their armour plates in case they needed to. Light glowed slowly in Percy’s palms that he kept hidden from sight, while Mickey, Oswald and Julius stayed behind Yen Sid, the sight of Vor surprising them and putting them on the defensive. “Well, well, well…” giggled Vor, her eyes moving over each member of the Symphonus family. “This is a sight to behold! One big family reunion, that dimwitted little girl must have wanted everyone to marvel at my grand return!” Yen Sid clenched his fist, his knuckles cracked softly, turning a pale white. “Don’t you dare speak about my daughter that way.” he glared, the soft silhouette of the phoenix appearing behind him, he had to hold on, and not release his greatest power yet. “What did you do with her, witch?” His question was deliberately ignored, as Vor smugly giggled behind her hand, and winked in a playful, yet mocking gesture at the sorcerer, she might as well have blown him a kiss just to add insult to injury. Scout was seeing crimson, and stomped her foot into the ground, unleashing several cues from under the dirt and rocks. “Let me guess, ‘PRISMA?’, is it?!” she snapped furiously, wanting to send a million push cues into Vor’s nasty grinning face. “I knew you were bad news the second I saw you! Where is my sister? I SWEAR, if you hurt her, I will NOT hold back!!” Behind Vor, Sora sighed and lowered his keyblade, allowing it to drag along the ground as he stood to face the group. He looked at Scout, lifting an eyebrow at her, amused at her glowering expression. “At least one of you did your homework.” he sniffed. “I guess I shouldn't be too surprised it was a pretty face too.” He grinned at Scout, watching her recoil in anger and disgust at his comment, she aimed the cues in his direction and punched them wildly, as if she was pummeling him right then and there. “SHUT UP YOU FREAK!!” she shouted. Sora lifted his keyblade, and effortlessly smacked away the cues, causing them to burst into small trills of music and disappear. Sora sighed in disappointment, shaking his head as he once more placed the keyblade up on his shoulder. “Sheesh, I never actually thought I’d be dealing with a bunch of pathetic losers again.” he sneered, and directed his sight over to one particular member of the group, glaring intensely, and pointing a gloved finger toward him. “Especially you!” It was Ventus, whose heart skipped a beat. Terra and Aqua were ready to jump to his defence, but Ventus already stepped forward, slamming the teeth of Wayward Wind into the ground at his feet. “You don’t get to talk!!” shouted the young keyblade wielder, staring down in defiance at the other, who was not appearing intimidated. “I never believed that Sora would go and try to hurt or manipulate Golden…” Ventus continued. “I’m glad I was right. And you know what? I never thought I’d have to cross paths with you again, Vanitas!”
A silence followed, broken only by a sly snickering, Vanitas started to laugh, looking toward Ventus with a dark smile, his yellow eyes contrasting brilliantly with his dark hair. “Hahaha!! It’s just like old times!” he cackled, followed by Vor smirking down at her teammate, enjoying his manner of making fun of his opponents. “Looks like you and I will clash once more, kid.” Vanitas went one smugly. “All thanks to one little brat. It’s kinda ironic, wouldn’t you agree, my lady?” Vor cackled, and glanced quickly back at the mirror she and Vanitas had departed from, watching to see the young girl looked afraid and alone, the very idea itself delighted her. “Ohohoho! Ironic is an understatement my friend!” she crowed. “To think…that little girl left her beloved home and family to find the Wicked Nine, in the hopes of destroying them once they were all together, and saving her loved ones, how noble…and yet here we are, the very objects she sought to destroy have instead done the complete opposite! Now she’s about to watch each one of you get yours, and very soon, she’ll follow…I’ve always believed in saving the very best, till last!” The witch cackled loudly again, inside the mirror, Golden could see everyone facing Vor and Vanitas, she could have cried seeing that they were all there in the flesh, here to rescue her. Banging on the glass, she yelled as loudly as her voice would allow it, desperate to grab their attention at one last resort of saving them. “DAD!! MUM!! PERCY!!” She screamed, her throat was starting to become scratchy at how much she called out to them. “MICKEY! AERO! ANYONE!! AQUA PLEASE HEAR ME!!” The villains were all surrounding her, their weapons of the Wicked Nine now back in their grasp, preparing with glee to unleash the revenge they wanted on the frightened, lonely girl who only wanted to go home. Golden paid them no attention, refusing to double down and allow them to hurt her family, her screams were noticeably starting to grate Jafar’s eardrums. “Ugh, what a noisy little brat.” He sighed in annoyance. “She makes you sound like a refined gentleman, Iago.” He smirked toward the parrot who fluttered onto his shoulder, who grimaced in disdain at the comparison. “Hey, I’m only sayin’ what you’re thinking, bozo!” snapped Iago, flapping his wings in response. “And now I’m thinking, if she’s so loud and annoying, what are ya standing around with your face melting off? Get to it and get rid of her!” Jafar made a small ‘tch’ of irritation at Iago’s squawking, but nevertheless raised his staff up high, the eyes of the snake glowing a bright, sinister red that would be a warning sign to anyone to look away. The Evil Queen clutched at her crown, smirking down at Golden with elation at her vulnerable state. The queen delicately placed the crown back on her head, and sighed euphorically, as if she were reborn. “Ahh, that’s better. Right where it belongs.” She mused, reaching inside her cape and feeling around for something, and soon enough, took out her heart box, which in a disturbing fashion, had a golden heart with a sword pierced through it engraved on the side. “Look at you now, child…where’s that all powerful resolve that once told us that we will never break you? And that your future is yours to choose alone? Ha ha ha ha!~ Looks like the butterfly has had its wings clipped…!” The Evil let out a sinister, high pitched laugh, one reserved for when she at her most joyful, which was never good news, even the other villains weren’t used to such a sound, it was usually Maleficent whose laugh stirred the hearts of everyone to feel the coldest of chills. Golden however, having dealt with how strong and mighty the Evil Queen was, simply lowered her head, and breathed an anxious, yet angry whisper. “Shut…up.” She hissed audibly, her hands trembling after hitting the glass over and over again. The Evil Queen’s face changed almost immediately as she was hit with a sudden disrespectful tone. “Excuse me?” She snarled, squeezing the heart box so hard in her bony fingers the paint almost cracked from the pressure. “WHAT did you just say to me, you nasty little whelp?!” In response, Golden whipped around, swinging her arm and unleashing a spell, but it was ineffective given her unstable emotional state, and the blue light only felt like a light smack to the Evil Queen’s chest, though she still stepped back in defence. “I said SHUT UP!!” She cried, hot tears flowing down her flushed cheeks in fury and pain, her blue eyes sparkled like a stream, but looked as deep as the darkest ocean. Throwing down her backpack, she reached inside to bring out the only thing that could give her even just the slightest bit of magic to fight with, and pulled it out: Her training hat. “Oh no you don’t, you little fool!” Maleficent cried, aiming her staff at Golden and shooting a blast of magic in her direction. It took only a couple of seconds, but it hit Golden with enough power to knock her over, the hat falling out of her hand beside her. “Huh?” Golden squeaked nervously, she stared at her hands, there was no glitching or anything happening, even though she had planned to. “Oh no…could it be? Did my…h-heart…” There was another blast, which shattered the glass from the mirror, sending shards raining down to the ground. Golden covered her head to shield from the sharp pieces, several of the smaller ones narrowly missing her by a hair. Then something started to wrap around her torso and waist, and hoisted her up, it was Ursula. The sea witch brought the frightened and hurt Golden closer to her, until they were eye level. The shell necklace was once again back around Ursula’s thick neck. “Aww, what’s the matter, angelfish?” grinned Ursula. “All powerless with your itty bitty little heart all empty and useless? Hehehee! And look, even papa can’t save you. He can’t even see you.” Golden struggled against Ursula’s tentacles, it was like being tied up in the thickest ropes, all she could do was kick, but the sea witch only tightened her hold on the girl each time. “Let me go, you sea hag!!” Golden rebuked, trying once more to glitch, but nothing came to, she only struggled more and more in Ursula’s grasp, who then gave Golden a hard squeeze, she couldn’t even yell or call out, she was silent. “Oh, now that is very rude.” sneered Ursula with a horrible glare. “You need to learn your place, small fry. Young ladies should be seen, and not heard!” Grabbing her necklace, Ursula activated its magic, and Golden felt a tugging on her throat, and felt she needed to throw up, and then all of sudden, without warning, her voice was pulled out of her. With a soft gasp, Golden watched as her voice was lowered into the necklace, disappearing. Golden’s heart sank to her stomach, now she really couldn’t call for help. “That’s what you get when you’re nasty to your elders.” Ursula admonished, giving Golden a slight swing of her tentacle to scare and intimidate her. “Getting rid of you will be even more fun now, since you had the nerve to disrespect me, but I’m a generous lady, who would I be if I didn’t let everyone else have a bit of the fun?”
Vor and Vanitas shook a little as the ground quaked, wondering if it had been an earthquake. Turning around, the glass on the mirror appeared to be broken, cracks were growing in all directions, and some shard pieces fell off onto the dirt below. Vor glared at Vanitas, warning him to not draw attention to it. “Well, what are you waiting for, fools?” She smirked. “Aren’t you going to fight us? Or do you realise just how powerful we are?” Yen Sid frowned at the witch and stepped forward, keeping his apprentices behind as he prepared an attack. He felt Percy grab his shoulder, making him stop. “Master…look.” He whispered into the sorcerer’s ear, who glanced only briefly, but he saw Golden in the midst of being taken and held hostage by the villains, who were being gestured by Ursula to come and have a turn at attacking her. Yen Sid’s parental instincts shot off like a lit firework, and swiftly pushed Percy forward ahead of him. “NOW PERCY!!” He shouted, and Percy clapped his hands, and like a flare at close contact, a single blast of light enveloped Vor and Vanitas, making the former screech as her eyes were temporarily blinded. “Cover your eyes as you enter!” Percy commanded as he transformed, his ball of light passing through the mirror’s broken glass like a pebble through water. Yen Sid followed behind, with Ambrose and Sonatina providing some protection for the others from the glaring light, passing by the duo of the witch and dark Keyblade wielder, and entering the mirror. All together, they now faced the next threat, and were more than ready to begin a fight to help Golden and bring her to safety.
As the group raced through into the mirror realm, the light reflected off the crystals and glass alike, blinding each and every one of the villains, and Ursula flailing around so much that she almost dropped Golden, who was feeling very dizzy and disoriented with all the light, squeezing her eyes shut but praying it was someone coming to rescue her. And that call was answered, once more, by the sound of Percy’s voice. “Lumen!! Now why are you all the way up there?” he chuckled, whizzing up to Ursula’s raised tentacles as Golden peeled an eye open, her mouth turning up into a grin upon seeing the bright ball of light. She tried to say his name, noticing the others surrounding her, as the villains recovered from their shock. “Scout, and Mickey…and Aero!” She mouthed, feeling relief wash over her like a wave despite being unable to speak, craning her neck as the light dimmed and revealed the rest of her family, all standing in the entryway to the mirror realm, hell bent on saving her. “Let her go, witch!” Mickey called, balling his fists and summoning his keyblade, Scout casting a glare Ursula’s way. “Hey, Mick…she’s too quiet.” she whispered, Mickey pausing and realising…that’s right, Golden hadn’t actually said anything. He wondered if it could simply be that his little sister was afraid, but…she usually at least made a few sounds, especially when she was younger and they’d both huddle together on stormy nights, since she wasn’t sure what it all was and his sensitive ears would make him worry. Ursula cackled. “Figured it out yet, pathetic little shrimps?” she grinned, Scout feeling the last of her control snap as she summoned around fifteen different cues, infuriated by all she’d seen and heard, and tired of the constant need to battle just for a time of peace and safety with her family. Glitched noises, insane kidnappers, living organs, even an entire legion of villains, sirens…she’d seen it all, and was downright tired of it! With a sudden clap, each and every one of the cues swung forward, hitting all of the villains and causing them to yelp, some of them turning their eyes onto Scout and scowling at her, who refused to back down. And with one final punch forward, Scout knocked Ursula down, causing her to drop both Golden and the necklace, which rolled toward Julius. Nervously, the cat stuffed it into his robe pockets and made a dash for it, only to be blocked by Vanitas as he did. “Going somewhere, fleas?” the boy cackled, before being caught off guard as Terra struck him, sending him flying into a crystal. “Yeah, away from you, edgelord.” Terra smirked, hoisting Julius up onto his shoulder. “You got it?” he whispered, Julius nodding and Terra wondering who could release the voice from inside, but having a safe bet that at least one of them would be able to do the job. As the fight commenced proper, Doctor Facilier called on his friends, and reached into his pocket for something, Golden shrugging off the tentacle and being picked up by Aqua, who she was more than delighted to see. “Why is it every time I see you, you’re concussed?” Aqua giggled, Golden shrugging and burying her face into Aqua’s shoulder, before that same headache began, with more intensity and fervour than previously. Aqua picked up her backpack, gave it back to her, and gently reached a hand up to stroke her hair, holding onto the smaller girl tightly, not quite wanting to let her go but knowing she had to do what was right. “Let’s get you to Yen…” the Keyblade master whispered, watching as Oswald took on Jafar, grabbing his staff and using it to whack Iago. “If I wanted a parrot, I’d have bought a good-looking one, you ugly chicken nugget!” he yelled, Iago dropping to the floor and Oswald using his ears to propel himself away from the villains, throwing the staff to Sonatina, who was working with Percy to create a barrier and stopping Vor’s intervention. The walls suddenly came alive with various shadowy creatures, Aqua stepping back as they all started to surround the group, not wanting to let Golden get hurt, but holding her Keyblade in her other hand and preparing to light up the room… Percy had an idea, calling for Yen Sid to sustain the shield, and transformed back into light, turning to the Wayfinders. “Wayfinders, I have a crazy idea and I’m positive it will at least look spectacular even if it doesn’t go the way I hope! Are you with me?” he grinned, Vanitas recovering and trying to go for Ventus, who avoided clashing with him and instead called over Oswald, who stunned the boy using the staff’s blinding eyes. All three Keyblade wielders got into position, Mickey moving to also aid, and they all connected their light to Percy, making him glow bigger and brighter than he ever had before, he truly was a beacon. Percy grinned in this form, and burst light out like a sun, he felt as warm as one and allowed his rays of light to coat the entire room, dispelling the shadows before they got too close, and the Wayfinders grinning as it worked, whilst Golden had kept her eyes safe by once more burying herself into Aqua’s shoulder. Maleficent and the Evil Queen hissed at the light, and watched as Aero grabbed a hold of the necklace from Julius, Star coming out from inside her pocket and rattling it until the voice was forced to fly out, returning to Golden who breathed a sigh of relief. “Thanks Star…” she whispered, Aqua smiling and moving over to Yen Sid amid all the fighting. She used her Keyblade to keep the shield up, though it was becoming far weaker as Vor struck it with all that she had, and less of the apprentices and warriors were left to keep the foes at bay- Aero was struggling to fight Shan Yu, having to make a sword out of paint and hoping it would be enough to withstand the force of his blade, whilst Facilier and Vanitas had teamed up, pushing back against Julius, Ventus and Terra all together, and requiring Percy to constantly brighten up his light tendrils, which took a lot of energy. Star noticed how tired Golden looked, and hovered by her chest, whilst Starlight summoned her dream creatures and tried to take on Maleficent, though it was largely ineffective and she once more had to avoid getting trapped in Ursula’s tentacles- she was really glad for her small size sometimes!
As Aqua passed Golden to Yen Sid, he held her tightly, and noticed her tired, tear-stained face, as well as her darkened robe thanks to a little drawn blood and being pummelled around like a ragdoll. His face hardened, he knew he had to bring her home, and that’s what he would do, at all costs. “Golden, we’re getting out of here.” he murmured, Golden looking terrified at the prospect of being so close to Yen Sid, especially with Vor around, who whistled as Aero regrouped with them, Shan Yu throwing his sword over to the witch as everyone escaped the mirror realm, Vor casting a spell to cause a mist and disorient them all. The only two now together were Golden and Yen Sid, and they could both hear the sounds of their lost family echoing as they tried to find each other, all whilst being wary of how narrow the cliffside was. Aero pushed through the mist, and Percy followed soon after, finding Yen Sid right as Vor revealed herself, those terrifying purple eyes piercing through the darkness, and the silhouette of Vanitas following not long after. “Oh, I swear I will end this overgrown halloween costume!” Aero yelled, gritting her teeth and watching Star lighting up, Percy responding just as they had done in the darkness to find each other. Misty figures got closer, villains and heroes alike fighting in the mist, though it was anyone’s guess as to who was winning, considering Vor had confused them all with her move, but it was tactical, she wanted to isolate the wizard and his apprentice, and finish what she’d come here to start, one puny Symphonus at a time. She drew the sword out from behind her back, Golden’s heart racing as she saw it, and her reflection within, clutching the straps of her backpack so hard that her knuckles went white. Vanitas cast a spell, locking Aero and Percy in place, and Vor held out her palm, creating a black bind out of nothing that gripped Yen Sid tightly, Golden helplessly being dragged alongside him. “You thought you could get away so easily? I have the power of two of the most potent and formidable objects in all the world, you have an old hat befitting your old beard!” Vor cackled, Yen Sid clenching his fists at the insult, nobody ever insulted the hat or stared at the beard! “And what’s more, I have every single one of my little minions at my beck and call, and a very powerful sidekick. I will finish you and all your family in an instant, just as I should’ve done all those years ago to foolish old At-” she was cut off by Yen Sid’s infuriated yell. “ENOUGH, VOR! You shall not disrespect any of us, we have held our own and will continue to do so, no matter what! I won’t let you win!” he retorted, Golden tensing as he completely lost his cool, but still stuck against him as Vor dragged them closer, Aero and Percy both straining against Vanitas’s bind and wishing they could get involved with the fight. Someone suddenly stepped forward, someone who had been fighting in the background and had gone largely unnoticed, but who easily ripped Aero out of her bind with a tornado. “Let them go, Vor.” Ambrose spoke, calmly letting her down, and taking the younger master’s hand, not wanting her to feel frightened in front of such a formidable foe. Vor just sneered. “What, upset I’m insulting you and your precious little family?! You don’t need them, you never have and you never will! All that you have are a group of brats you’ve decided to care for!” she cackled, Ambrose feeling a typhoon envelop him, and resisting everything to stop hell from raining down on the witch. “Enough talk. I know which one of you I’ll pick off first, and then it’s goodbye to the rest!” she continued, Vanitas suddenly revitalising his spell and catching Ambrose too, Aero and Ambrose being stuck back to back and both feeling irate beyond words. “Golden, you should stay with the others, find them…I promise I’ll be okay.” Yen Sid whispered, but she shook her head, simply holding him tighter. “I-I didn’t mean for this…I’m so sorry…” she wept, Yen Sid leaning down despite the bind to give her a kiss on the forehead. “I know…I really do. I’m proud of you, little one.” he whispered, Golden fighting back the urge to just break down into sobs at that moment, burying her face into his robes. And with that, Vor dragged Yen Sid and Golden as close as she could, briefly undoing the bind to allow herself to grip the sword properly, and in that moment, Golden leapt out of Yen Sid’s arms into midair, managing to take the hit in his place, and being flung across the ground, landing on her front with her arms out, in shock and feeling everything go hazy.
Yen Sid heard his heartbeat in his ears, seeing Golden lying still on the ground, it took him a moment before his vision truly cleared up, and it all clicked into place…Golden had used her future sight to time the attack and intercept it, and had taken his place instead in the dream. When Yen Sid saw the blood seeping out from underneath Golden, his blood ran ice cold. “Ohoho, how brave.” grinned Vor, giving the sword a swing, blood splattering a little to the side of her. “That was the one useful thing she’d ever done. And just so you know, hehehe…just to add insult to injury to your pathetic little mind, little Golden’s heart was completely drained! Not even a drop, and now look at her, nothing but a mere corpse…congratulations!” Vor cackled again, the other villains were all approaching closer, all staring at Golden from behind Vor, they were surprised, but felt victorious, for once they had gained a win over the heroes… “Hehehe…pathetic.” snickered Vanitas, mockingly waving his keyblade at Golden’s lifeless form. “Since the very start of the journey, she’s as gullible as the other morons I’ve dealt with before, Ventus, Sora...and miss master over there.” He pointed at Aqua, and winked at her without any sincerity, and baring his teeth in a dark smile. Aqua felt her heart racing, and her cheeks growing hot upon seeing Golden on the ground, hoping it was just an illusion or a twisted nightmare. “It’s…not real.” she breathed, holding her keyblade close to her chest. “It isn’t…” Her denial was met with uproarious laughter from the villains, especially Vor and Vantias, the former still gripping the sword tightly within her hand, and started moving closer to Golden, and started holding the sword up again, looking gleeful as she gazed down at Golden, ready to pierce her once more. “Ahh, denial is the first stage of grief.” snickered the Evil Queen nastily, rubbing the lid of her heart box before pushing it back inside her cape and concealing it. Maleficent in turn was petting Diablo, who looked rather relaxed as he perched on her staff, feeling the joy of victory from his mistress. “And grief is what we crave, it’s like an energy source from you poor, pathetic fools.” laughed Maleficent, she watched with eager anticipation as Vor raised the sword, but in that very moment, Yen Sid quickly teleported before the witch, scooping Golden into his arms and dodging away in the nick of time as Vor went in for the second attack, the sword pierced the ground violently, sending dirt and rocks flying up into the air. Vor grunted angrily, side-eying Yen Sid as he lay on the ground with his daughter tucked in his arms. “Everyone, fall back now!” Yen Sid cried out, raising a hand up above his head, a bright, wispy wave unleashed from his fingertips and swarmed around the apprentices, himself, Ambrose, Percy and Sonatina, as well as the Wayfinders, Aero, Star and Starlight. In the sky, there was a crackling, sparking with electricity as the heavens were pulled open, the light little wisp that Yen Sid had created was now pulling them up, and sending them through a portal, until they began to disappear away from the battlefield. The villains stared up at the portal as the Symphonus family began to depart back home, and in one glimpse from the portal, the undeniable glow of the great moon was gazing down upon them. “Hah! Running away like little cowards, Yen Sid?!” Vor screeched, the sword in her grasp beginning to glow a fierce energy of magic. “Believe me, sorcerer, I’m just getting warmed up!” She pointed the weapon up, the tip aimed directly at the portal, she wore a malicious smile as she planned to slash it, and perhaps take one or two more victims with it. She rose in the air, following the family at a top rate speed, with the fleeing party of sorcerers and keyblade wielders not even bothering to notice. Vor took one swing of the sword, and it barely scratched the portal before a shimmering, burning blast of light struck her entire being, sending her plummeting back down to the earth. The immense blast of light was enough to cause her pain, and make her scream in agony as she fell, and landed with a giant dust cloud surrounding the cliff side around a fresh crater. “Woah…” hissed Vanitas, who had leapt out of the way before the impact, seeing Vor lying on the ground, the hilt of the sword barely under her fingers. “That was…some power. I feel like I recognise it.” Vanitas’s words caused a domino effect in thinking as each villain turned to each other, a force of power like that didn’t come out of nowhere, and not many a wizard were powerful enough to withstand it. “That power…it didn’t belong to her, did it?” said Shan Yu, his gruff voice sneering as the portal closed shut, and seeing the tip of his sword had been slightly bent and damaged. “Oh believe me, Shan Yu…” replied the Evil Queen, her face a mix of shock, horror and awe. “I’ve seen her power, and if I just give her the benefit of the doubt, that magic we just witnessed was strong, and definitely hers. Yet…” She paused, sensing she might know what the other part of the spell was, but closed it off in her mind, preferring not to think it might be potentially what she thought of. “There was something else, one I felt, yet it came from none of them. Still, it felt…sentient.”
The workshop was quiet, peaceful almost. The broomies were still, snoozing on the job while everyone was away, until a sound from the upstairs observatory jolted them all awake. The seven broomies shuffled up the staircase, the door to the observatory was wide open, where a portal had appeared, sparking with blue and white electricity, and a warm, bright golden glow. Sonatina jumped through, being supported by Scout, followed by Percy in his light form which bounced off of the chairs until he de-transformed back into a man. Ambrose jumped through, Yen Sid following with Golden’s tiny frame in his embrace, unable to grab anything, Yen Sid was quickly yet gently caught in Ambrose’s arms so he wouldn’t fall, and helped steady him upright. Aero appeared, Star and Starlight holding tight onto her shoulders, and helping Oswald and Mickey jumped through into the observatory, taking their hands and letting them into her arms. Lastly, Aqua appeared, her keyblade in one hand, and Ventus’s hand in the other, Terra was behind, holding Julius securely as the portal behind them finally closed off in a burst of sparks and airy stardust. Everyone was quiet, not uttering a single word even as they realised they had finally reached home, feeling disoriented and dizzy from the sudden expulsion from the realm through the portal. Yen Sid’s hat had fallen slightly over his eyes, prompting Ambrose to carefully adjust it, and as he looked down at what he was cradling, Yen Sid saw Golden, her eyes closed, her colour draining, her skin growing cold. “Lunula…” he whispered softly, lowering her a little, he hovered one hand over her chest, and as if handling the most delicate flower known to the world, extracted her heart out from her. Her heart was barely beating, the gold was a dim and dark colour, in fact, it could barely be called gold at all, and through the middle, a deep, horrible crack stood out most of all. It was a broken heart, and like a candle, it had lost its flame, and burnt out. “Golden…?” murmured Sonatina, slowly reaching Yen Sid as he placed Golden on the floor, summoning a blanket quickly to cover her torso, he didn’t want anyone to see how bad her wound was. “No…no no no!! NOOO!!” Sonatina fell to her knees, grasping Golden’s small hand in hers, tears running down her face as they blurred her vision, she wanted to refuse Golden was gone, and that she’d wake up any second from this horrible, stupid nightmare. “This is all my fault!” Sonatina wept sorrowfully. “If I…h-hadn’t had that…that cursed book Golden would…” Her fury and sadness were drowned out by the rest of her sobs, Scout carefully kneeled down beside her mother, and felt a harrowing pit in her stomach, she’d never seen her mother this emotional before. Placing her hands on Sonatina’s shoulders, Scout tearfully glanced down in turn at Golden, unable to fathom what was truly happening. “Little sis…” she whispered, she wanted to be strong for her mother’s sake, as well as Yen Sid, who was looking completely blank, his face showing no emotion whatsoever. “Dad…why aren’t you saying anything…?” Scout asked softly, the sorcerer’s eyes slowly drifted to her direction, and this time, they were soft and kind. Yen Sid stood up silently, watching as everyone responded to the scene before them, the Wayfinders were in one corner, Terra and Ventus looking just as upset as Scout, Aqua was even holding her little paper wayfinder that Golden had gifted her, as if trying to find Golden somewhere, somehow, but the little girl couldn’t be seen. She was lost. Ambrose had his arm around Percy, who had gone completely and uncharacteristically quiet, the elder squeezed his eyes shut, not wanting to look at Golden, his heart ached for her and for Yen Sid, he couldn’t bear to imagine if it had been either of his little ones in his niece’s place. Aero couldn’t look at Golden either, she was on her knees, level with the three brothers, Mickey and Oswald were holding each other in Aero’s lap, simply taking in each other’s presence and comfort, while Julius held a crying Starlight, who didn’t notice Star’s little attempts to soothe her. “Dad? What do we do?” Scout’s voice had caught Yen Sid’s attention, having been fixed on the members of his family, he wanted to help, say something to comfort or motivate them during this time, but he was at a loss, Golden was gone, Vor was still out there, and the villains were free from the light realm’s shackles. “I…I don’t know.” he said, and it was all he could say. Oswald shot him a glare, his black little eyes were fuming and grief stricken, furiously wiping them away on his sleeve. “What CAN we do?!” he yelled, but it was at no one in particular. “Nothing, that’s what! Golden’s gone, just look at her heart! She’s…” he was stopped by another hand taking his, a gloved one, Mickey pulled his brother a little closer to his side again, patting him on the back like Oswald would do for him when he was sad. “Ossie…” he hummed, letting out a small sigh. Mickey had always stayed positive and strong for his family, even when things went wrong, but now, even he struggled to keep his emotions in check. The heart, which began to float gently back down inside of Golden, back into her chest where it belonged, and laid to rest with her. Yen Sid kneeled down to lift Golden up, wrapping her in the blanket and bundling her up, he passed by the broomies, who all looked mournful at their fallen honorary member, and left the observatory to Golden’s bedroom. “Golden, I’m so sorry.” he said, holding her close enough to touch her forehead with his, softly nuzzling against her, like he used to a few years ago, when she was still very small, and had the mind of a toddler. “This is on me, sweetheart…if I hadn’t been there, if I had stopped Vor before anyone of this…you would still be here, and maybe…we’d still be playing hide and seek…” Entering the bedroom, Yen Sid carefully laid her down on the bed, adjusting her blanket and fixing her slightly messy hair, making her look a little more tidy, he chuckled a little, knowing that Golden would have the bushiest hair whenever she woke up in the mornings, which prompted him to start brushing her hair before bed, he was never really good at it, so Scout had taken over for him, making it a little routine between the two. He gently kneeled down to kiss her cheek, very slowly and carefully as if she couldn’t feel it if she were alive. Backing out of the room, Yen Sid turned to see in surprise, Aero was standing in the doorway, looking flushed, tired and heartbroken. “Dad…what are we gonna do now?” she asked, her voice shaking, she was trying her hardest not to cry in front of him, even if Yen Sid didn’t mind if she did, but Aero had her insecurities that she was still working her way past, ever since she was one of his students. “Aero, I know this is a difficult, and tragic moment for you all.” he told her, putting a hand on her shoulder, giving it a gentle pat. “We can’t do anything right away, but…if you would gather everyone, please head down to the sitting room, and wait for me. I think it’s best we all stay together after tonight.” Aero blinked back her tears and nodded, quickly heading back up the observatory before she could start weeping, leaving Yen Sid alone as he made his way to one of the spare rooms. Inside the spare room laid several sleeping bags and blankets and pillows, he levitated them up and brought them out with him, and went down the stairs onto the lowest floor. He sighed deeply, hearing the voices of everyone in the sitting room, he could still hear Sonatina grieving openly, and Oswald furiously punching at the sofa in his frustration at the failure of the mission. Laying out each of the sleeping bags with his magic, Yen Sid made the sitting room look more like a little camping site, where everyone could stay in one place and gaze up at the stars… except one of them was now missing from the family, he remembered that this had happened before in a different circumstance, but the feeling was very much the same and he felt himself becoming heavy, the weight of the situation was now on his shoulders, and he sat down, like he just collapsed from it all. Yen Sid had lost all energy to speak, and sighed deeply again, until he noticed beside him, one of his apprentices had tapped his knee, it was Mickey. The little mouse lifted his arms up, gesturing like a small child to be picked, Yen Sid found it quite charming, and rather endearing of Mickey, and lifted him up under the arms and onto his lap, holding him against his chest with his arms wrapped around him. “Mickey…” he whispered gently, rubbing his apprentice’s little round ears between his thumb and index finger. “Ahh, did you come here to give me a hug? I should be the one offering you my embrace…” he felt Mickey snuggle against his shoulder, and hold onto him tighter. “Aww, dad…you are giving me a hug!” Mickey said with a soft giggle. “And we’ve all hugged each other tonight, you needed one too…!” Yen Sid felt his heart warm up for the first all evening, Mickey had such a childlike wonder and outlook on the world, and he always thought of others first, just having him in his lap, hearing his voice and feeling his soft, silky ears was enough to comfort Yen Sid, there were many times where the sorcerer was the one doing the comforting for Mickey, but sometimes it would switch, and both were more than happy to be there for the other. “Vor…is still out there, isn’t she?” murmured Mickey softly into Yen Sid’s ear, the sorcerer shut his eyes, a darkly humorous idea crossed his mind, he envisioned Golden riding on top of her butterfly, and sending out powerful beams of magic down on Vor and Vanitas, completely obliterating them. Vor would screech in agony and beg for mercy and forgiveness, while Vanitas lay pleading to be spared, Golden would only respond with that cheeky smirk of hers, while sending more and more spells raining down and sending them both to their demise. Yen Sid shook his head a little, not wanting to go too far, even if it was the villains he had to fight, and the very fact they had taken his little girl from him. He wasn’t going to let this slide, and formed a plan in his mind, it was a stretch of an idea, but not illogical, and perhaps it might be the one thing to help Golden. Standing up from the chair, Yen Sid patted Mickey on the back and sat him down on his sleeping bag, ruffling the young mouse apprentice on the head between his ears, eliciting a little laugh from him. “Thank you Mickey, I think…I have an idea.” He turned to address the rest of the room, who all looked exceedingly exhausted and in need of a good night's sleep. Yen Sid cleared his throat, a spark of confidence lighting up his eyes. “Everyone?” he began, just to make sure they had their attention on him. “This is…obviously a tough and…horrific time for all of us. I know you’re all dealing with grief, and feeling tired to the bone. I’ll understand if one or none of you can sleep after today’s events…but for now, I request you all stay here in this room, together. Just be with each other, hold each other, and appreciate every single second you are with everyone in this room, alright?” Each person in the room took their own time responding, thinking, but coming to an agreement on the whole idea, some of them nodded, and the others answering with a small ‘okay’. Yen Sid turned to his brother, who offered him a hug, and gratefully, Yen Sid took it. Yen Sid always felt safe with Ambrose, his warm demeanour could melt the coldest of hearts. “I’ll watch over them, little brother.” Ambrose soothed, patting his younger brother on the shoulder with encouragement. “You do what you have to do tonight, don’t worry about a thing.” With a nod, and a look of thanks, Yen Sid broke away from the hug and whispered goodnight to Ambrose, letting the older sorcerer settle down into his own sleeping bag. “Hey, the moon is out tonight.” Scout said tiredly, pointing to the window that had been left undrawn, the great moon, with its almighty glow was bathing them in its light, like a protective guardian, and gave everyone a small peace of mind as sleep began to take over them. “If only…Goldie could see it…” Scout finished with a yawn, curling up under the blankets and obscuring herself from being visible in the light. Yen Sid felt a twinge of sadness hearing that, it kept hitting him over and over that Golden wasn’t here tonight, and by the time the sun rose, everyone would be wondering if the previous night had even been real, maybe Golden would come down the stairs with the broomies all preparing her breakfast. He shook the thought from his mind, and exhaled deeply, he couldn’t waste the night thinking of what could have been. “Percy?” he said softly, the light man stopped sorting out his sleeping bag, that Star and Starlight had taken refuge in first, and placed it down to face his master, his expression focused and alert. “Yes, dad?” he asked. “What is it?” Giving Percy a small but tired smile, Yen Sid reached out a hand and placed it on the younger sorcerer’s shoulder, bringing him a little closer. “Percy, I’m going to do some…research tonight. It involves that book, I have a feeling I’ll find something, but maybe it’s just false hope, I won’t know unless I look into it. If I find something, I want you to go into town, and search for it, it…could be anywhere in any realm. And that’s only IF I find something, will you…be willing to do that for me?” Yen Sid’s words were a lot to take in initially, Percy hadn’t been given a task this big since his graduation, there was a lot riding on him to do this, in his heart he knew this was for Yen Sid’s sake, and for Golden’s too. He remembered the time he first saved Golden’s life, and how things changed for the both of them completely that day. “Mm, yes. I’ll do it. I’ll do whatever it takes,” Percy answered firmly. “and I won’t give up until I can help you fix this, at all costs.” Percy balled his hand and gave his chest a quick pat confidently as he gave Yen Sid his response, earning a look of satisfaction from his master. Pulling him a little closer, Yen Sid tucked Percy into a warm hug and steadily patted his back. Percy, being the affection man he was, embraced the man as fast as he could and snuggled into his robes, he wished he was a bit smaller so he could be held tightly by his father again, but he was never too old to appreciate just how warm and gentle Yen Sid’s hugs truly were. Once they parted, Yen Sid left the room, letting Percy settle down with the others for the night, passing the broomies as they all followed him, concerned for him as he was leaving the others to head to his office. “Broomies.” smiled Yen Sid, turning to them as he entered his office domain. “Would you do me the honour of watching out for them too? My apprentices will need some strong, brave broomies to look out for them too.” They all saluted him, which is what they’d do with Golden when she was little, during games where she’d order them around as a leader and an eighth member. All seven brooms shuffled away, leaving Yen Sid alone in his office. Taking a deep breath, he knew where to look, and spying what he needed as if it was second nature, he took out a large, dusty book, with a black cover and gold lettering titled “The Art of Time Travel.” Unknowing if this would work or not, he had to try. He refused to let Vor win this, especially at the cost of Golden’s life. He opened up the book, setting it down on his table. “Travelling to the past is not the same as travelling to the future. And unlike memories, we’d really be stepping back in time. Merlin knows a thing about future travel, ahh, but he would always keep those books…the council would remind him they belonged to the library…!” He chuckled, setting down Golden’s journal, the book Sonatina had kept, and laid them all out, beginning his research. It felt like hours, and he was starting to feel sleep seeping in as he searched and searched the book for anything useful, but as he turned the 777th page, he noticed something that stood out like a pop up and immediately caught his eye. “Shattering Stones?”
Out on the cliffs, the moon was shining down on the villains, who were using their magic, rather ironically, to help Vor heal from the attack. She glared down at the bent sword. “I hate that child…” she groaned, Vanitas nodding and smirking, there was an evident stain left on the ground, which he found fitting considering she was a thorn in their side. Though there were one or two scars left by the blast, she had healed surprisingly well, and got to her feet, being gracefully helped up by the Evil Queen and Maleficent. Vor turned to them all, though the entirety of the Wicked Nine weren’t present, they were still missing a few members, she had plans for them all, and could easily regroup. “When we are done, Lumos itself will be desecrated. There will be no more sorcerers, no more free people…all there will be is slaves and our empire. We will control every single realm, every inch of the world, and…eventually, we’ll be powerful enough to take Kingdom Hearts!” she cackled, Vanitas hiding a grin, the thought enticed him. “It’s unfortunate that little pest is out of the way, in some respects…I was really looking forward to trying out some things…” Maleficent lamented, Vor shooting her a smirk. “Oh my dear, don’t worry…you and I both know there are ways to reverse death, so perhaps we can try one or two little things when we have a moment.” Vor chuckled, Maleficent almost looking childishly delighted at the thought, like unwrapping a Christmas present. Vor gave a smile at her enthusiasm, despite the fact they were villains, these were her subordinates, and she had chosen well, considering the ring had been infused in each of their items. “For now, let us begin our conquest. I daresay that runt’s family will be wailing and weeping at home, so we shall obliterate them, and the rest of Fioritura from there. Nocturne next, then the council…and all the lands in between, churches and monuments…we will raze it all to the ground, and build a new world.” she snickered, the villains murmuring amongst themselves at the thought of this “new world”, and what it might entail. “Nothing can stop us! Vor is the most powerful being in the entire magical universe, and with that old wretch Grey gone, he can’t even help them!” The Evil Queen giggled, Vor turning her head at the mention of Master Grey. “Yes…that was a rather humiliating defeat, he was the one who imprisoned me in that locket, alongside that…blasted child.” she seethed, the Evil Queen stepping back and fearing Vor’s wrath, despite being as cruel as they came. “These sorcerers, and those stupid apprentices, are nothing in comparison to the foes I was defeated by, there’s absolutely no way they will beat us, and with you as my allies, I say a wonderful future is on the horizon.” she smirked, raising her eyes to stare at the moon, and using magic to straighten out the tip of the sword, raising it up as if to declare war on the worlds, and the one who ruled them. “Balances have been tipped, and we will not fail…”
It was quiet that night, though most couldn’t sleep…Starlight sat up in the sleeping bag, having been curled up next to Percy, and Star snuggling up in her white blanket. She noticed Sonatina was restless, and quietly used some magic to give her sweet dreams. “Mama…it’s gonna be o-okay…” she whispered, remembering the times they’d had to stick together in the darkness, and how she’d taken care of Sonatina back then, the woman tended to get some awful nightmares, so Starlight was always on hand to soothe them. With a wave of her wand, she brought the sweetest dreams she could muster to all who slept, dreams of the moon and fluffy clouds, and sailing boats across the sea, and the most beautiful gardens…her shoulders felt heavy, though, and she couldn’t sleep despite having soothed everyone else, glowworm magic tended to be much more effective on other creatures and not on themselves…it reminded her of the attack all that time ago, and the casualties she’d barely avoided by being right on the frontlines…she still got her own nightmares about that sometimes, but was content knowing there was nobody injured, and that the only casualty had really been herself, along with Sonatina. Nevertheless, she couldn’t sleep, and even the calm of the house didn’t soothe her, so she flew through the halls, her wand illuminating the way as she went. She heard Star stirring slightly, but waved her wand to put it back to sleep, and then headed toward Golden’s room, quietly opening the door. She didn’t want to be too invasive, but quietly snuggled up in the space between the wall and Golden, whispering to her for a minute, and hoping nobody else would hear. “Goldie…I know you did it to protect Yen Sid but…I wish you wouldn’t leave me here…I don’t like feeling like this…!” She wept, moving a hand under the blanket to hold onto Golden, though being careful not to touch the wounded area…though in reality, she wished she was the most powerful healer, and could bring people back no matter what. “You were really brave and…and in a way, you stopped Vor, so I think I should be thankful…but I miss you too much…” she whispered, rubbing her eyes on her sleeve to try and get rid of the tears trickling down her cheeks, and then moved away, sniffling and deciding to take refuge with an old friend, flying out the window and closing it behind her, and then zipping up until she was amid the clouds, hearing a flapping of wings as she failed to hold in the tears.
“Mi stella? Why are you crying? What troubles you?” A warm, motherly voice, and someone got down on their knees, crouching down by Starlight and bringing her into their arms. Her blurry eyes cleared up, revealing Aurora, who gently kissed the glowworm’s forehead. “It’s just me tonight, little one…the others are asleep, please, tell me why you are weeping…” Aurora whispered, Starlight curling up and feeling the warmth of the sky spirit, who folded her wings around them like a cocoon, keeping the moment private and calm for both. Starlight tried to wipe her tears, and felt Aurora’s soft feathers, they were a little like her comfort blanket at home, and she felt the softness between her hands, relaxing slightly and blinking as the last of her tears escaped. “Golden…there was an awful witch, she…she was horrible, and tricked her…! And now she’s gone!” Starlight cried, Aurora’s heart sinking at the thought…how would Delphis react to this?! She sighed and shook her head, looking up pensively at the moon. “You know…I’ve been around a very long time. And with that…comes sorrow. But there is so much light in the world, and even when people do disappear, that light of theirs? It remains like a fragment, and scatters into every heart they ever touched, so they’re never truly gone.” she smiled, touching Starlight’s chest and giving her a warm hug. “Golden is always with you, Starlight.” she whispered, and then unfurled her wings, standing up and allowing the glowworm to fly away, sending a gentle wind to guide her. “Stay safe, mi stella. All this will come to pass, and I have faith that after the rainstorm, there will be a rainbow.”
As sunlight streamed through the curtains, it was a clear morning, though Starlight had not yet returned, she had instead gone to rest on a cloud, and try to catch up on some of the sleep she’d missed. Percy rubbed his eyes, stifling a yawn as he remembered where on earth he was, realising he missed his seven blankets but didn’t have it in him to disobey the master, not now. He turned to his side, seeing Star had wrapped itself in the blanket, holding onto a corner of it and snoring. He almost giggled, and gently tapped it. “Star? Heh, you look rather comfy.” he whispered, hearing the sounds of the others starting to stir. He turned around, Oswald looked like he hadn’t got a wink of sleep, and snapped his fingers irritably, one of the brooms instantly bringing him five cups of coffee. Scout brought a brush over for her hair, and then set to doing Sonatina’s, who looked rather despondent, simply staring into space as if she wasn’t even awake…it worried Scout, who made a face and shrugged subtly at Percy. He knew this was quite a normal reaction to grief, and didn’t want to disturb her, so instead motioned for the brooms to prepare breakfast, they weren’t as perky as usual, but at least they had rested the day before so they weren’t as exhausted as the rest. Mickey was keeping a tight hold on Duffy, practically hiding behind him, and Julius likewise was holding Mickey, they were each others’ shields at the present moment. Percy kindly grabbed Aero’s cup for her from the side when she awoke, and passed it toward her, it was rather beautiful, decorated with many stars that shimmered in the light, and reminded him. “Oh, has anyone seen Starlight?” he asked, everyone mumbling no, except Star, who pointed out of the window, up toward the clouds. “Right…come on, we’d all best get up. Staying in bed isn’t good, even in times like this…” he advised, though nobody seemed particularly inclined to listen. The Wayfinders all decided to take a walk, and Aqua held onto both her brothers, keeping them close, and noticing how warm the light was this morning, despite it only being seven in the morning. Perhaps Golden was watching over them, and making sure they were all okay… Aqua hoped so, holding her wayfinder subtly in her hand, and looking down at the little drawings on it…she sighed, reminded of how Eraqus had taught her a lot about the way in which she grieved, and that she tended to feel it a little later than everyone else, but she did feel the absence, like a gaping hole had been torn inside her heart, and though it could be patched, it would take time and patience, though luckily she had two brothers who would support her throughout it all. Meanwhile, everyone had eventually got up, and Percy had helped Scout to move her mother onto the sofa, where Ambrose was tending to her with some tea. The old wizard headed into the office to check on his brother, Percy anxiously waiting to see if he was required to go out, as the master had said, and Ambrose smiled slightly as Yen Sid was fast asleep at his desk, a hand on his cheek to support himself. “Oh Yen…even as a boy, you’d fall asleep in the strangest places.” he chuckled, using some magic to close the door and keep their privacy, just in case his brother was upset when he awoke. Ambrose patted him on the shoulder, Yen Sid blinking in surprise and jolting slightly, looking tiredly up at his older brother. “Hmm…oh? Oh…it’s you, Ambrose.” he whispered, Ambrose nodding. “Yes…you were up all night reading, weren’t you?” he smiled, shaking his head and leading Yen Sid toward a window seat, where the younger man put his knees up to his chest, looking rather insecure. “I did…but…I don’t know if it’ll work, and…there’s a chance we could even lose our jobs at the council, Ambrose.” he admitted, Ambrose raising an eyebrow. Powers to revive someone were hard to come by, but perhaps Yen Sid was considering something else? “What’s on your mind, Yen?” he smiled, Yen Sid shrugging and levitating the book toward him. “These…these are stones that can break absolutely anything. If we can find one, we can shatter that sword.” he grimaced, Ambrose raising an eyebrow curiously. “What good will shattering the sword do?” he whispered, Yen Sid showing him the cover of the book and Ambrose’s eyes going wide. “Time travel?! Oh, we’re going back?!” he exclaimed, Yen Sid putting a hand over his mouth. “Not so loud! Like I said…this could put a lot into jeopardy…our jobs at the council, you need a permit to time travel, remember?” he fretted, before Ambrose took his hands, causing him to drop the book altogether. There was a fire in his eyes. “Screw the council, Yen! We’re the council, and you’ll have saved a life…that’s far more important than any legal business! Everything we do, it’s for them, isn’t it? If…god forbid, if Coral ever found herself in this sort of situation, I would stop at nothing to get her back. Your job, your life…it’s meaningless without them, Yen Sid.” he whispered, Yen Sid feeling his eyes well with tears and trying to hold them back. “So…you trust my plan, Ambrose?” he whispered, voice breaking as he was truly on the verge of tears. “Yen Sid, there isn’t anyone else I’d trust as much as you, except Grey but he’s not exactly around, so of course I do! And you know what? If we lose our jobs, I always thought the robes were pointless anyway since mine’s already white!” he chuckled, Yen Sid stifling a laugh and then hearing a knock at the door. “Come in!” they both said in unison, and on the other end stood Percy, he was holding his hat in his hands, and gave a little wave.
“Um…did you find anything, master?” he spoke, nervously fiddling with his hat between his fingers. Yen Sid stood, picking up the fallen book, and nodded. “I did…and fortunately, I have Ambrose to advocate for what is admittedly, a fairly risky plan. And one I will not be repeating, hopefully…” he chuckled, and then pointed down at the page in the book, Ambrose watching them discuss and turning his gaze to the room around them, noticing the portrait of the ever-stern Master Grey on the wall, giving it a soft smile. Yen Sid carried a lot of the same airs and graces as the old teacher, and yet had just as kind of a heart, which made Ambrose smile…they even resembled each other, in many ways, and he was glad they’d both been taught by the same teacher, taken the same surname…and became brothers. Percy nodded as he took in the picture in the book, making a mental note. “Shatter stones, eh? Do you really think it could work?” he mused, Yen Sid giving a firm nod. “I do…something tells me this is right, and I hope my intuition is as good as ever.” he smiled, reaching out to fix Percy’s sideburns, who went a little red at the gesture. “Right, then I’ll get washed and dressed and set right off! Oh, and can I borrow the muse and the cookie tin?” he smirked, Yen Sid raising an eyebrow at that last part but sighing and relenting. “For energy, yes…but don’t eat too many or I might scold you.” he warned, Percy looking a little nervous and sheepishly nodding. “Where do you propose I start?” he pondered, Yen Sid being a little dumbstruck. “I…admittedly, don’t know. They’re considered dangerous, so they’re probably locked away somewhere, but it’s definitely not the council, as we take inventory of the relics there all the time. Very few people know where to find them, I believe…but with the muse and your incredible skills and navigation, I really think you’ll find one.” he smiled, Percy going even more crimson at the compliments and nodding. “Right…I might even be able to find more than one, that would make you happy, now wouldn’t it?” he chirped, Yen Sid smiling, Percy’s cheerfulness, whilst a little forced, was brightening him up considerably, along with the warm glow that was causing a glare to reflect off all his photo frames, casting rainbows on every wall. “Very happy…I suggest the city first, as anywhere is a start. Good luck, Percy.” he smiled, Ambrose giving a playful thumbs up and putting a hand on Yen Sid’s shoulder. Percy grinned, and gave a salute. “I won’t let you down! FOR LUUUMEN!” he cheered, turning into light and breezing out the office, Ambrose giving a slight chuckle and then turning Yen Sid to face him. “Whatever the outcome, I think you’ve done well.” he whispered, pulling his little brother into a hug, and Yen Sid smiling as he returned it, before allowing the tears to fall at last.
Percy gathered his muse and cookie tin, Star taking an interest in what he was doing, squeaking curiously. “I’m going to find something…do you want to come? It might be a little less lonely.” the light man admitted, Star nodding and pulling its little mouth into a smile with its stubby hands, prompting Percy to do the same. “You’re right, a smile is essential. Best make a good impression, eh?” he chuckled, grabbing his travelling cloak as Star got a little stuck under his hat, getting a genuine laugh out of the light man. “You silly thing! Come on, stop misbehaving or I’ll put you in the cookie tin!” he chuckled, Star raising an eyebrow as if to say ‘that’s not a punishment!’ As time went by, the small star used his cloak as a type of hood, burrowing into it and sitting on his shoulder, Percy deciding to walk into Fioritura instead of using the muse, taking in the scent of the grass and flowers as he did. “It’s a wonderful day, eh Star? Unlike yesterday…” he muttered, Star squeaking and nodding, flying through the trees and leaving a bright trail of stardust, prompting Percy to levitate his belongings and follow along, flying together and finding themselves in the city. Though Percy asked far and wide, from the forensics specialists to the local museum, nobody had heard of the shatter stones, so he turned to the less populated areas, houses by Sonatina’s, sure he’d knocked on every door and window known to man, but there was nothing. He continued on, though, trying more rural areas, and found himself in a local tavern, deciding to take a break as his back ached, Star looking rather tuckered out despite spending the majority of the trip on his shoulder. He stretched as he sat down in a little booth, and giggled as Star tiredly fell onto the table, curling up on his plate like it was a bed. “Don’t sleep there, you little munchkin!” he chuckled, poking it and moving it aside, putting it on a napkin as it took a little nap. “I don’t understand how you’re tired, honestly. You haven’t been asking everyone and their mother about these so-called shatter stones, not that I don’t believe the master but they certainly are elusive. I hope they’re not somewhere at the bottom of the sea, though I suppose Delphis could help…” he mused, resting on his elbow as he felt the tiredness he’d been neglecting come back with full force. “Oh…this is certainly a conundrum, harder than I thought. I don’t want to return empty-handed, far from it! But…dad could be starting something he can’t finish…and ohoho, we know what he thinks of that, Mickey more than anyone else!” he chuckled to nobody, Star turning over in its sleep and Percy reaching out to stroke it, smiling fondly at the little creature he’d so come to care for. “But…I’m starting to believe this might be the end for poor Lumen…what if I never find those blasted shatter stones?” he moaned, before his narration to the air was interrupted by someone clearing their throat nearby. “Excuse me?” a voice spoke, it sounded young, and feminine…Percy sat up straight, going red as he registered she might’ve heard his rant. “Um..oh! Sorry, ah, uhh…can we help you, dear?” he tried, looking up at the person, who was dressed in a brown cloak obscuring their features, and thus he couldn’t make out who they were. “Perhaps…and I might be able to help you too? Did…you say Shatter Stones?” she smiled, Percy sitting up straight, and without thinking, poked Star with a fork, who angrily squeaked as the prongs poked its little behind, rubbing it in an exasperated manner. “I-I did! W-who are you?” Percy stuttered, Star giving him a quick slap on the face, earning a surprised ‘ow!’, and they stared as the stranger sat across from them, Percy smiling to reassure her it was fine. “I am actually looking for the stones, but…I had no idea where to go, the muse pointed me here…” he thought, realising the muse might’ve been pointing him to this woman. “That’s some magic…I’ve used Shatter Stones before, I had to use one on my big sister once, unfortunately…” the woman replied, Percy and Star exchanging surprised, but saddened glances. “Really?” Percy asked, the woman nodding and reaching up to remove her hood, revealing someone who resembled Prisma. “My name is Azurine. It’s lovely to make your acquaintance.” She smiled. Despite her warm demeanour, Percy’s guard went up, and Star looked angrily at the young woman, who looked a little distressed by the change in mood. “Azurine…you look a lot like the one who brought this mess about, actually. How can I know to trust you?” Percy asked, Star flying into her face and Azurine sneezing as some of the dust got too close to her. “Ack! I’m…I’m not a threat, promise, little….little, are you a star? I won’t hurt anyone, honest!” she cried, Percy raising an eyebrow, but she seemed genuine. “What…what even happened?” she asked, Percy sighing, and pulling out his phone, finding a picture of Golden giving a big smile. “This…is my little sister. She’s called Golden…or…was, I suppose.” he smiled sadly, that happy image was from the first time he’d met her, after they’d rescued her, she’d given him the brightest smile… “Was…?” Azurine inquired, her face turning sad as she realised what might have happened. “Yes…have you heard of the witch, Vor?” he asked, Azurine’s face suddenly going pale. “No…no!” she cried, Percy shaken by her sudden change and moving to support her as she punched the table with her fist, Star squeaking worriedly at the girl. “Prisma, she did this?! How…how dare she?” Azurine growled, Percy taken aback at the way she spoke, but gently taking her hand. “You know her? Are you perhaps… her sister?” he asked, giving a soft smile as Azurine looked apologetic and nodded, quiet and nervous after her outburst. “I…I am so sorry, after Prisma fell to darkness, I thought she was stopped, but…she escaped her cell. And made off with one of the most dangerous artefacts in the Mystic Isles.” she explained, Percy raising an eyebrow. “What was that?” he asked, curious, Star sitting on the table and looking up, as if about to hear a story. “The locket of Vor…it was kept safe there, by the Protectors…but one of them was recently robbed of a very important item. I promised her I’d go and get it…but I just ended up on a wild goose chase, and in that time…your little sister became a victim of something that should never have occurred. I am so sorry!” Azurine tearfully spoke, Percy patting her hand gently and comforting her. “No, it’s alright…it wasn’t your fault. Your sister sounds like a real piece of work, though.” he groaned, Azurine nodding. “She was always horrible to me…I never understood why, but it seemed she always hated me. I used to wonder if being the prodigal crystalmaster made her jealous, but…I really wasn’t that good…” she admitted, Percy sympathetically nodding. “Well honestly, I think you’re just the person we’re looking for. Crystalmasters, as far as I know, have a link with stone and rock, so you’d be perfect for our little quest…perhaps in return, we can recover whatever item you need?” he suggested, Azurine smiling sweetly. “That’s more than I could ask for, thank you. You are so kind…” she sighed, Percy helping her to stand as Star flew around her head, making her giggle as it tapped her nose. “You sure are a sweet little thing! I bet you brighten up any room, huh?” she chuckled, Percy having a lightbulb moment. “Light, that’s IT!! Star, we have to brighten up enough that everyone can regroup faster, you hear?!” he grinned, Star looking utterly confused at whatever he was on about, having not been informed of the time travel yet. Azurine looked equally as confused, but smiled warmly at the light man’s enthusiasm, giggling at how funny and sweet he seemed. “Come on, let’s get on home and tell the master, I bet we’ll knock his socks off!”
Heading inside the castle, Percy invited Azurine inside, who respectfully took off her shoes, and to her surprise, one of the brooms took her cloak, giving her a little bow as its companion nudged it, making it all flustered and start to angrily sweep in response. “My…this is amazing!” Azurine grinned, Percy nodding. “Oh believe me, you have barely scratched the surface. Us Symphonuses are renowned for our brilliance!” he giggled, happy to occasionally toot his own horn. Julius heard the door open and walked over, before gasping in fright at the sight of Azurine, thinking she was Prisma. “W-What are you doing here?! Finishing the job? W-Well…I won’t let ya!” he cried, Percy’s eyes changing sympathetically and moving over to Julius, putting both hands on his shoulders. “Awww Julius, I promise it’s okay. This is Azurine, she’s actually Prisma’s little sister, hence the resemblance, but hang fire! She’s nothing like her, and here to help us.” he smiled, gently tilting Julius’s chin up, who felt some tears building up in his little black eyes. “But…but how?! You can’t bring someone back when they’re gone! They’re…they’re gone forever…!” he wept, Percy shushing him and gently stroking his head as Julius cried into his shoulder. “No…no, they don’t have to be. Trust me, dad and I have one heck of a plan…it will look wonderful, and hopefully go as planned, haha! But in any case, you don’t have to cry…” he whispered, rubbing circles on Julius’s back, who clutched Percy tightly and nodded. After one tight hug, Percy picked Julius up, holding him gently on his hip. “So…you think we can bring Golden back?” he sniffled, Percy passing him a handkerchief and nodding reassuringly. “You know what? I do! Lumen will be relighted soon enough!” he chuckled, Azurine shyly stepping forward as Star hung onto her. “I-I thought…wasn’t her name…?” she whispered, Percy giving a warm smile. “Lumen is my little nickname for her, she’s our little light! And soon enough, she’ll be back in our arms!” he giggled, Julius clinging to him and feeling the idea grow on him, he really believed in Percy and especially Yen Sid, if anyone would locate something lost, it would be them, always.
“Is dad still in his office, Julius?” Percy asked, Julius nodding shyly and looking a little lost for words in front of Azurine, though she seemed very friendly. “Mum is still…very upset. She isn’t talking to us so…you should be careful.” he squeaked, Percy frowning slightly but nodding, lifting Julius up onto his shoulders. “Don’t worry, I’ll tread lighter than a pigeon on ice! Is that an expression? Whatever, I don't care. Off we go!” he smiled, taking Azurine’s hand and Star following along, noticing Yen Sid wasn’t in the living room, as was said, but Sonatina was sitting there, holding a mug and looking down into it, looking at nothing. Oswald caught Percy’s gaze, looking worried, but was feeling a little more reassured by Percy’s bright smile. Percy turned to Azurine, motioning to one of the armchairs. “Wait here, dear. I’ll only be a minute, and if you need anything, it might sound silly, but don’t hesitate to ask one of the brooms!” he chuckled, Julius hopping down off his back and sitting beside Azurine, holding her hand and signing things to Oswald, who responded back in subtle nods and gestures, as he often did when Julius didn’t speak. Meanwhile, Percy headed into the office, where Ambrose and Yen Sid were murmuring about some documents, and unwrapping scroll after scroll, one falling onto Percy’s head as he walked in. “Oh my! Master, I have returned! And I may not have found the stones, but I DID find someone who can really help us! She’s in the sitting room, is everyone else alright?” he asked, Yen Sid giving a slight shrug. “Mickey…is in his room, I think he’s talking to Aero, actually. The Wayfinders went out on a walk…they might find Starlight, who knows? And everyone else is out and about, some in the library, others in the sitting room…” he smiled gently, Percy nodding sympathetically. “It’s a tough time for all, master, but with a bit of luck, we’ll have the perfect solution! Or you, I suppose, since you came up with it.” he chuckled, Yen Sid smiling and putting an arm around Percy. “I may have come up with it, but the practical side? I have you and Star to thank. Now, I’ll make sure everyone is ready, and we can set out for the stones. Perhaps some of us could stay here…if need be, I can open a gateway for them.” he offered, thinking Sonatina might not be up to the task of moving about at the current moment. They walked through into the living room, where Yen Sid turned to see Scout had entered, and noticed Julius signing, asking him in sign if he was alright, and getting a nod in return, making him smile. “Scout, dear? Do you think you could pour the tea that the brooms have made? I’m brewing a special medicinal, she’ll calm down and feel better soon.” he smiled, Scout nodding and heading off to grab the mugs, Oswald following in case she might need help. The Wayfinders walked in, looking rather tired from their long walk, and Aqua’s eyes looked a bit red, but overall they looked fine. They sat down on the sofa next to Sonatina, who barely registered them, Yen Sid moving over to touch her shoulder. “Sonatina? I promise, everything will be fine. You don’t have to suffer in silence, I assure you.” he whispered, Ambrose giving a smile and turning to Julius, starting to communicate with him in sign, and welcoming Azurine with a grin, who gave a polite, shy nod. Yen Sid turned to Azurine too, frowning slightly as he saw the resemblance, but had more faith in Percy than Golden to choose who to trust. “And you are, miss?” he smiled, holding out his hand for shaking, Azurine standing and gladly accepting. “Azurine. Prisma’s younger sister…your son Percy, he told me everything, and I can help you find the Shatter Stones, I’m one of the very few who know where they are.” she smiled, Yen Sid giving her a look of approval. “Then it appears my son chose wisely, as he often does. May you show me what you can do? I sense a great deal of magic.” he smiled, Azurine nodding and holding out her hand, creating several shards from nowhere, and binding them together, creating a beautiful crystal. Julius gasped, along with Star, and she gave them a smile, making it float toward the little cat, who couldn’t help but paw at it, Star giggling and the two pushing it between them. “That…that was so cool! How’d you do that?” Julius asked, finding his voice at last and Azurine giving him a warm smile. “I’m something called a Crystalmaster, my sister too. We specialise in creating all sorts of rock formations, whether to bind or to work as decorations…” she smiled, turning to Scout and noticing a bracelet on her arm. “Pink spinel.” she grinned, Scout looking down at the pink gems and nodding. “Yep! That checks out, hehe.” the teenager giggled, and then gave a relieved smile as Yen Sid handed Sonatina her tea, which he’d infused with his medicinal, and which she took, gaining more colour as she sipped it, which really relieved them all. “I don’t know why Prisma went about this old scheme again…she knows the destruction these sorts of plots can cause, and I really thought…oh, whatever! If she’s involved, I’m here to help! And I’ll make sure nobody gets hurt, not again.” Azurine smiled, bravely stepping forward and impressing Yen Sid with her courage, it was an earned virtue, not learned. “Thank you, Azurine. Before we begin, I would like to know how we acquire these Shatter Stones.” he asked, Azurine nodding and starting to explain. “Well, since they can be found on the Mystic Isles, we’ll have to travel to the Isle of Dancing Deserts. The stones themselves were sealed away in obsidian, as they were considered dangerous, especially in the wrong hands, but they are locked in a crystal vault, of which I know the location.” she smiled, Yen Sid waving his hand to Percy, who threw him the muse. “Leave the travelling to me, the rest is on you. Let me gather the apprentices who want to join us, and the rest can stay. Scout…?” he turned to her, and she shrugged. “I…don’t really want to leave Mum. Plus, if Starlight comes back, an empty house might scare her…?” she offered, Yen Sid giving her a nod. “Me and the boys, then. Wayfinders, I might need you too, and can you fetch Mickey and Aero? Percy and Ambrose…?” he smiled, Percy giving a salute, whilst Ambrose sat down next to Sonatina. “I’ll be the man of the house for once, hehe.” he giggled, Yen Sid rolling his eyes subtly but agreeing, it might be best to have a responsible figure in the house whilst they were gone. Azurine was surprised that he was already forming a plan, and scratched her cheek nervously. “You…really trust me? Just like that?” she inquired, Yen Sid giving her a nod, he seemed warm and kind, like he was bathed in light. “I do. You truly have something about you Azurine, that Prisma didn’t…” he gave her a soft smile, the girl going slightly pink, “and believe me, it isn’t your crystalmaster powers.” he chuckled, Azurine giggling a little and watching as everyone gathered, knowing they now had an ally against Vor and the other villains.
Yen Sid brought them up to the Observatory, preparing a gateway with his magic, and Ambrose’s help. “If anything goes wrong, don’t hesitate to run through. It will bring you immediately to me, but it’s an incredibly strong spell…I don’t think I can use it more than once.” Yen Sid explained, Ambrose giving a playful thumbs up. “Just don’t get lost!” he chuckled, Yen Sid huffing as he used the muse to warp them away, Ambrose staring at the star that, if need be, would elongate and become a gateway. He wondered where Starlight could be, and headed outside, whilst Scout and Sonatina stayed indoors, the brooms bringing the teen her headphones and composition box, whilst observing Sonatina’s improvements. In the deserts, the sand was pink and warm beneath their feet, it was a little like the light realm, but it was far heavier to walk in, and Oswald did not like the feeling of the sand one bit. “Ugh, why couldn’t it have been the Isle of Dancing Plains?!” he grumbled, Azurine stifling a laugh. “Well it wouldn’t have alliteration, would it?” she giggled, Oswald rolling his eyes. “Magic people and their alliteration! Why can’t things just be as they are, instead of needing fancy words?” he groaned, Mickey managing a laugh as he held onto Aero’s hand, who focused on the path ahead, or lack thereof. “So…a crystal cave, hmm?” she mused, Azurine nodding and walking next to the girl, she was a bit shorter so she had to look up as she spoke. “Yep! A vault that was put here so it wouldn’t be easy to access for most, but I get some special access, hehe.” she smiled, Aero nodding, and thinking back, she recalled the names of the stones from her apprenticeship, perhaps Yen Sid had shown them to her once? Either that or she’d been looking through his books at the pretty pictures! They continued on, reaching a beautiful cave, which looked like a crystal itself. The walls were lined with sparkling, shining stones, casting light onto every surface, and crystals just as the mirror realm had been, though far less sharp and dangerous. Azurine pressed in a combination of crystals engraved with an ancient, foreign language, and the vault spun open, everyone stepping back. The inside was decorated with stained glass, depicting the stone being used to break apart various objects, by beings that looked to be made of pure light, like…protectors. Yen Sid couldn’t help but stare at them, but turned his attention back to Azurine. “There it is!” Oswald called, pointing at the rock, which was encased in obsidian, just as Azurine had said. “Alright…come on, let’s do this, Azurine!” She spoke, trying to prepare herself, and rolled up her sleeves, waving her hands and beginning to break down the crystals, which took a lot of energy, but she clearly was prodigal, as it took a much shorter time than any of them expected. The shatter stone fell to the floor, but it was extremely durable, and felt heavy when Azurine picked it up. “How do we use it, Azurine?” Mickey asked Azurine, who gave the little mouse a smile and offered for him to hold it- he accepted, though didn’t expect such weight from a little stone! “It’s pretty simple, actually! You just have to tap it three times, and the desired object breaks.” she explained, Yen Sid smiling and nodding. “I believe that can be used to our advantage. Come on everyone, let’s go home and get ready, alright?” he offered, Aero and Mickey holding his hands as Oswald kept a hold on Julius, who was relatively quiet but it was likely from being near a stranger, though he trusted Azurine just like the rest. “Ready, for what?” the little cat squeaked, Yen Sid turning and gently straightening up his apprentice’s hat. “Dad’s got a plan, everyone!” Percy giggled, Terra rolling his eyes. “When doesn’t he?” he smirked, Aero nodding. “Always, dad ALWAYS has a plan! He doesn’t go anywhere without one, he always plans things like groceries, hehe! Let’s head back!” she cheered, Yen Sid playfully ruffling her hair as she teased him, and feeling something in his heart as he looked down at the shatter stone, as if Golden was laughing at him for having the solution on his shelf the entire time.
Back at the house, Ambrose noticed a cloud floating down toward him, holding a sleepy glowworm who was just awakening. He smiled, using his magic to bring it down, and cradled the little creature in his arms. “Oh, you’re a dream sentry, aren’t you? You must’ve been the reason I dreamt about the day I met my wife last night…” he murmured, Starlight yawning and realising she was in his arms, rubbing her tired eyes. “Ambrose…?” she whispered, Ambrose nodding and gently patting her head as she woke up properly. “The one and only. Come on, inside before you get cold, it looks like rain…” he groaned, despite his hat, he didn’t enjoy the rain, the sun made him far happier. They headed indoors, where Sonatina looked up, noticing Starlight, and giving her a slight smile. “You’re here…” she whispered, Starlight flying over and resting in Sonatina’s arms. “You look sad…me too, but…there’s a rainbow after every storm, right?” she tried, Mum dabbing her eyes and nodding, stroking the glowworm’s hat affectionately, it felt plush and soft. “Yes, little one…” she smiled, Starlight cuddling up and listening to Sonatina’s heart, it was strong and steady as always, and calmed the little creature. Scout was listening to music, but took off her headphones when Ambrose sat next to her. “What are you working on, sweetheart?” he asked his niece, Scout going a little red. “Ah…it’s…just something for Tyke. But aw man! If we time travel I’ll have to start it all over again!” she groaned, Ambrose chuckling at her joke as she huffed. “Yeah okay this is pointless. I’ll just remember it!” she smirked, Sonatina managing a giggle. “Time travel?” Starlight asked, rubbing her eyes as she had just woken up. “Yes, little one. We’re going to the past, to get little Golden back.” Ambrose smiled, Starlight gasping and flying up to him, Ambrose giving her a warm look and reaching out his hands to keep her steady. “That’s…that’s amazing! We’re gonna save Golden!!” she cheered, before all of a sudden, the lights went out, the room left to be illuminated by Starlight’s wand, Scout’s phone, and the soft glow of the composition box. “Huh…?!” Starlight whispered, Ambrose narrowing his eyes in the darkness as some footsteps echoed. “Upstairs, observatory.” he hissed, Starlight wanting to go and get Golden, but being pulled along by the master sorcerer. Quietly, they crept through the house, hearing the chatter of several frightening voices, Scout putting her phone on silent and stuffing the box in her pocket, whilst Starlight hid the glow of her wand with her tiny hands. “Anyone home?” A chilling voice echoed, sending tremors down their spines, and they made haste to the observatory, crouching in the doorway to confirm their fears, before using up the very complicated spell that Yen Sid had crafted. Vanitas cackled. “Looks like they ran off, eh Vor?” he laughed, Starlight pulling her hat over her eyes in fear, not wanting to see that angry edgelord ever again, much less the witch he currently served. “When I say run, on the count of three, you have to move. Go up into the observatory and stand by the podium where the muse is. I’ll handle the rest.” Ambrose hissed, everyone straining to hear them. There was a sudden shuffling in the darkness, everyone tensing, but then an angry shout. “AGH!! Who spilled water, you imbeciles?!” Vor screeched, the Evil Queen moaning about her crown being soaked, whilst Maleficent tried to use her staff to light the way, but it appeared that the lights really had tripped, or perhaps it was intervention from another force…either way, the house was shrouded in darkness, protecting those who dwelt inside. Another splash, this time soaking Jafar, and Iago screeching. “Jeez, who decided to soak me?! I’m not a towel!” he cried, but was soaked once more by whatever unseen force was currently attacking them. Starlight gave a grin upon realising what was happening. “Wait…I know something I can do to help!” she whispered, waving her wand and putting together various inanimate objects to create one of her dream creatures, putting together a baseball bat as a weapon, giving a mop some hands just like the brooms, a spare wastepaper basket for ahead, and a cute little bow on top for extra flair. “Go on, get ‘em!” she grinned, the creature saluting and waving the baseball bat wildly in the darkness, managing to hit Diablo midair and sending him splattering against the wall. “Who touched my pet?!” Maleficent screeched, the broomies all hiding and signalling to Ambrose in the slight glow that was cast by a window, Ambrose nodding and motioning for everyone to go up further, where they all collected around the stand. “Alright, when the time is right…” the master sorcerer muttered, holding out his hand to prepare. Starlight peeked around the doorway, watching the villains cast an illumination spell, and revealing the creature. “What is THAT meant to be?!” The Evil Queen grimaced, Vor stepping forward with a wicked smile. “Easily destroyed.” she replied, waving her hand and the creature turning to dust with a single motion, Starlight’s eyes going wide. Vor touched the dust, and smirked. “Star magic, hm? We aren’t alone, it seems.” she grinned, Starlight’s little heart thumping in her chest and turning to Ambrose. “Quick! Open it, open it!” she fretted, Ambrose nodding and casting the spell, the gateway slowly opening, though the footsteps were increasing. Scout used a simple shield to try and stop them following the trail, but it appeared the villains had caught on, and would soon locate them. “Hurry, Ambrose!” Starlight cried, Sonatina stepping in and helping him to widen the gateway, until they could all fit. And then, the lights of the house all turned on again, and it was just the villains and brooms, who were safely hiding down in the basement, and praying the evildoers wouldn’t lay another hand on poor Golden…
As the four of them ran through the portal, they ended up lying on the edge of the Isle, covered in sand. Starlight spat some of it out, hating the awful taste. “Eugh!! Where the heck…?” she asked, noticing some figures on the horizon getting closer, looking as if they were running. Yen Sid arrived first, Ambrose and Sonatina supporting each other, they were a little weakened from that energy, whilst Scout brushed off Starlight, trying to get rid of the grains of sand that had stuck to the little glowworm. “Dad?! They invaded the house, what if they get Golden?” Scout cried, Yen Sid frowning. “They came in, Yen. All of them, the…the lights luckily tripped, which gave us some time, but we barely escaped. We have to act fast.” Ambrose urged, touching his brother’s arm and reassuring him. “And if we fail, Ambrose?” Yen Sid whispered, feeling a knot forming in his stomach. “Then we get our council permissions removed! I’m not leaving without an alive niece!” Ambrose grinned, Yen Sid unable to resist a chuckle at his enthusiasm, right now he seemed to be almost matching Percy! Aero turned to both of them, looking utterly confused. “What on earth are you two planning?” she asked, Ambrose and Yen Sid giving a smile. “Let’s hope time is on our side, eh Yen?” Ambrose smiled, Yen Sid nodding. “Mickey, are you following?” Oswald asked, Mickey shrugging. “Nope.” he replied, Julius silently nodding in agreement. Azurine smiled, handing the stone to Yen Sid, who held it tightly in his grasp, this was his one chance, and he had to use it wisely. “Ready, Ambrose?” he grinned, the two masters holding out their hands and performing a spell, the sands of the desert morphing around them, turning into an hourglass that turned on its head, and sent them back, flying through time as a strong wind began, as if they were stood on the sands of time themselves. “Everyone, repeat EVERYTHING you did before, don’t miss a detail!” Yen Sid commanded, everyone trying to remember what they’d said and done, but it was to save their youngest, and they were all keen to do it. “Let’s go!”
As Aqua passed Golden to Yen Sid, he held her tightly, feeling his heart pounding at holding her again, safe and alive, despite her tired, tear-stained face, as well as her darkened robe thanks to a little drawn blood and being pummelled around like a ragdoll. His face hardened, he knew he had to bring her home, and that’s what he would do, at all costs, and properly this time. “Golden, we’re getting out of here.” he murmured, Golden looking terrified at the prospect of being so close to Yen Sid, especially with Vor around, who whistled as Aero regrouped with them, Shan Yu throwing his sword over to the witch as everyone escaped the mirror realm, Vor casting a spell to cause a mist and disorient them all. The only two now together were Golden and Yen Sid, and they could both hear the sounds of their lost family echoing as they tried to find each other, all whilst being wary of how narrow the cliffside was. Aero pushed through the mist, and Percy followed soon after, finding Yen Sid right as Vor revealed herself, those terrifying purple eyes piercing through the darkness, and the silhouette of Vanitas following not long after. “Oh, I swear I will end this overgrown halloween costume!” Aero yelled, gritting her teeth in genuine fury, knowing what had happened previously, and watching Star lighting up, Percy responding just as they had done in the darkness to find each other, though it was far more effective this time, as everyone sprang out of the mist, all watching sorcerer and apprentice alike about to be bound together by darkness. Vor drew the sword out from behind her back, Golden’s heart racing as she saw it, and her reflection within, clutching the straps of her backpack so hard that her knuckles went white. In that moment, Yen Sid slipped something inside, her face creasing in curiosity and fear alike as Vanitas cast a spell, locking everyone else in place, and Vor held out her palm, creating a black bind out of nothing that gripped Yen Sid tightly, Golden helplessly being dragged alongside him, Yen Sid praying this would work as he looked down at her face, she looked frightened beyond words. “You thought you could get away so easily? I have the power of two of the most potent and formidable objects in all the world, you have an old hat befitting your old beard!” Vor cackled, Yen Sid clenching his fists at these words. His daughter wasn't an object, she was a wonderful little human being with infinite potential, and then it occurred to him that Azurine had been searching for something, as Percy had told him...could it be the other "object" in question? “And what’s more, I have every single one of my little minions at my beck and call, and a very powerful sidekick. I will finish you and all your family in an instant, just as I should’ve done all those years ago to foolish old At-” she was cut off by Yen Sid’s infuriated yell, as he mustered all his anger into his speech, all his rage at the things that had occurred to his daughter, and the disrespect toward someone he loved. “ENOUGH, VOR! You shall not disrespect any of us, we have held our own and will continue to do so, no matter what! I won’t let you win!” he retorted, Golden tensing as he completely lost his cool, but still stuck against him as Vor dragged them closer, everyone straining against Vanitas’s bind and wishing they could get involved with the fight, though all of them knew they couldn't take Vor on, even at full power. Someone suddenly stepped forward, someone who had been fighting in the background and had gone largely unnoticed, but who easily ripped Aero out of her bind with a tornado. “Let them go, Vor.” Ambrose spoke, calmly letting her down, and taking the younger master’s hand, not wanting her to feel frightened in front of such a formidable foe, and silently praying Yen Sid’s plan would work. Vor just sneered. “What, upset I’m insulting you and your precious little family?! You don’t need them, you never have and you never will! All that you have are a group of brats you’ve decided to care for!” she cackled, Ambrose feeling a typhoon envelop him, and resisting everything to stop hell from raining down on the witch- his family was everything to him, from Brooke, Coral and Caspian to his little nieces and nephews, every single one of them… he couldn’t imagine a world without them. “Enough talk. I know which one of you I’ll pick off first, and then it’s goodbye to the rest!” she continued, Vanitas suddenly revitalising his spell and catching Ambrose too, Aero and Ambrose being stuck back to back and both feeling irate beyond words, but touching hands, passing gestures of hope between them despite their predicament. “Golden, you should stay with the others, find them…I promise I’ll be okay.” Yen Sid whispered, but she shook her head, simply holding him tighter. “I-I didn’t mean for this…I’m so sorry…” she wept, Yen Sid leaning down despite the bind to give her a kiss on the forehead, putting all his love and care for her into that singular gesture, feeling his heart warm knowing all this would be worth it, once she was safely home. “I know…I really do. I’m proud of you, little one.” he whispered, Golden fighting back the urge to just break down into sobs at that moment, burying her face into his robes, Yen Sid smiling softly and leaning his head atop hers. And with that, Vor dragged Yen Sid and Golden as close as she could, briefly undoing the bind to allow herself to grip the sword properly, and in that moment, Golden leapt out of Yen Sid’s arms into midair, managing to take the hit in his place...
Yen Sid heard his heartbeat in his ears, but the silence was cut as there was a loud clash, the metal hitting the girl in the chest again. Golden was flung across the floor just as before, landing with her arms out...but there was no blood. She trembled as she took the hit, but in a single moment, the sword of Shan Yu shattered into shards, earning an enraged roar from the warlord. Vor glared, Golden getting up. "Ah...ah, wait..." she muttered, picking herself up and revealing there was no wound, no stab...she was okay. “What…what is…?” Vor trembled, staring at the broken sword, and Yen Sid moved over to Golden, running over to her and gently putting a hand on her to steady her, checking she was okay…she had a bruise from the hit, but nothing permanent. “What is this magic?!” Vor demanded, Yen Sid smirking and reaching into Golden’s backpack, who was freaking out as she stood there, having no idea how she’d avoided dying from a slash that strong, but feeling relieved…despite that, her heart still felt rather empty, but that was a problem for the future. Yen Sid pulled out the shatter stone, and Golden’s face was a picture, eyes wide as saucers and mouth in an ‘o’. “HUH?!” she cried, Yen Sid smiling. “Just an ordinary little stone.” he teased, Vor’s grip tightening on the sword as she started to bind it back together, shard by shard, like a crystal. “That’s a Shatter Stone! How did you…?” she glared, Golden looking up in wonder at the little magical object, Yen Sid almost grinning at her expression, he loved her curiosity, and didn’t doubt she had many questions…but he would save those for later. “We had a little help from a special little friend…you didn’t think I was going to let you get away with ripping my family apart, did you?” Yen Sid smirked, Golden gaining several question marks above her head, just like a toon, and it caused Oswald to snicker. Vor, angered by the insolence, swiped at them both, but something held her back, a crystallised rope held by a strong prodigy. “What the?! NO! YOU!” Vor screeched, the mist clearing up completely and revealing Azurine, who was dressed in her own glittering gown of her own, in shades of pink, and holding a sceptre powered by a reformed Terra crystal. “Sister…I am truly sorry for this, but you leave me no choice.” Azurine grimaced, Golden stepping back at the stranger, hiding behind Yen Sid slightly, who stroked her hair, almost disbelieving that she was really alive, but feeling relief wash over him like a wave. “Azurine…please, please stop, it’s me, Prisma, see?! I’m your sister, I’ll change for you, I promise! We’re sisters!!” Vor cried, but Azurine just shook her head sadly. “I tried this before, you were imprisoned, but having the heartlessness to do this all again, manipulate a child and enlist a being of pure darkness, just so you can taste some power?! You’re a monster, no sister of mine!” Azurine cried, increasing the strength of her crystals and binding Vor’s feet to the floor, spotting the locket resting around her neck and knowing she had to bind Vor inside again. The witch tried to pull free, but it was futile, so she turned, enraged. “Then you, Azurine, shall die with them!!” She screamed, the villains all rising up behind her. “Find a way to free Vor, do NOT let her be subdued!” the Evil Queen called, Yen Sid assessing the situation, knowing he needed to get the locket, and forming a plan. Golden smiled up at him slightly, and he gently touched her hair again. She’d been drained of her magic, just as Vor had said, and it was evident from her clinginess alongside her exhaustion, and she weighed up the situation. “I’ll step back, okay?” she grinned, Yen Sid almost shaking his head, she’d just almost been stabbed and her only response was to smile and walk away? He couldn’t believe it, but he nodded. “That’s for the best, lunula.” he smiled, Golden obediently moving out of the way as the fight recommenced, and everyone had a new spur of energy, seeing the one they loved was fine.
The Evil Queen stepped forward, nastily brandishing her box, which caused Golden to shrink slightly, Yen Sid putting a hand in front of her. “You dare defy Vor?! The most powerful force of evil in the entire universe?!” she demanded, Yen Sid gritting his teeth, but to his surprise, someone else answered, pointing his keyblade at Vanitas. “We’ve done it once, we’ll do it a thousand times!” he cried, Vanitas just rolling his eyes, but sensing a change in Ventus, and everyone else at the scene, they seemed to have grown far more determined than before, and the boy couldn’t help but wonder why. Everyone stepped forward, raising weapons alike up to the sky, where the moon was coming into view, and despite Golden having no magic, she couldn’t help but imitate them, everyone raising a hand or two as their spells seemed to grow in magnitude, rays of light illuminating the scene and causing some of the villains to hiss as the light touched them. The boys began to fight some of the villains, Mickey taking on Maleficent herself, as Aero backed him up, and Ambrose took on the Evil Queen- it was a rather unfair fight for her as the master sorcerer was ready to unleash a literal hurricane on her. Meanwhile, Star and Starlight were taking on Ursula once more, managing to evade her tentacles and Star having fun immobilising her with stardust, causing her to start uncontrollably floating and glowworm and star alike laughing until their sides hurt as she gripped something to try and stay near the ground. Yen Sid turned, seeing Azurine trying to keep Vor restrained, though she looked to be struggling. “Stay calm Azurine. You can do this.” he coaxed, Azurine nodding and strengthening the bind even more. Yen Sid protected her from attacks from all sides, using his phoenix to deflect and calm the blows before they got anywhere near them, Terra watching in admiration and nearly getting swiped by Shan Yu. “He’s incredible, eh Percy?” the keyblade wielder called, Percy nodding as he evaded an attack from Jafar. “I daresay! I don’t think a single attack has touched him yet!” he grinned, turning into light and breezing by, until he was nearly struck by Maleficent, who gave a wicked grin. “Oh, sucking up to dear old dad? We got him once, we can do it again, and this time your little brat won’t be there to save you all.” she snickered, a dark smile on her face that made Percy’s blood boil. “The man’s a mere weakling like the rest of you!” the witch cried, Percy transforming back into a man as the light tendrils and his old halberd reappeared almost immediately, his stag also appearing, and he immediately swung at her, clashing with her staff- she hadn’t anticipated him being so sudden. “You DARE disrespect my master?!” he cried, flinging around twenty balls of light at her dark form, the witch barely having time to react as she was struck, simply letting out a grunt of pain as the light man battled his way to victory. Maleficent’s staff fell out of her grasp, and they both watched as it rolled across the floor, and someone picked it up. Two little hands grasped it, and put it into her backpack. Percy smirked. “I thought you said you were stepping back?” he grinned, Golden rolling her eyes. “Does it look like Starlight can pick this up?” she giggled, moving out of the line of fire as Percy kept the witch distracted, and noticed some of the items weren’t even in use, rushing to collect the claw, sundrop flower and key. The rest were in use, but now everyone knew to throw them to Golden, who would help keep them away from the foes until the fight was over. As each of the items fell out of the grasp of their respective villain, from Star stealing the shell necklace to Oswald grabbing Jafar’s snake staff, Yen Sid watched with pride, keeping his focus on protecting Azurine from the crossfire as she almost managed to bind Vor completely, keeping her still and away from the fight. “You can’t keep me restrained forever, Azurine!” she cried, though Azurine gritted her teeth, she nearly had her still enough that someone would be able to snatch the locket…despite this, Vor collected a ball of dark energy into her hands, using Prisma’s own powers to undo the crystals, a constant push and pull of imprisonment and freedom. Vor silently cursed Prisma, wishing she’d gone for the prodigal Azurine instead, but Azurine would never have fallen to such darkness, she was a being of light, the opposite of her sister. Vor finally sent out a blast that pushed Yen Sid and Azurine back, the former catching the latter as she was a little unsteady from using such strength. “Are you alright, dear?” Percy asked kindly, whizzing over as Azurine nodded. “Fine…just a little tired.” she smiled, Yen Sid watching as Vor disappeared in a cloud of mist, casting a warning eye onto the group to be ready for anything. Despite that, he was incredibly proud of his family…Sonatina and Scout had done an incredible job of keeping Facilier at bay, whilst the Wayfinders had stopped Shan Yu, who was on his knees, Golden holding the sword safely in her backpack. Their feats made him swell with pride, Mickey had aided Percy in defeating Maleficent, alongside Julius helping Terra by powering his keyblade…Oswald had been flying, grabbing items when they fell and throwing them to his little sister, who stood at the sidelines, heart beating once more. “You all did incredibly well.” Yen Sid smiled, casting a warm look down to everyone present, Ambrose giving a slight chuckle. “Even me?” he teased, Yen Sid rolling his eyes. “I’m not calling you a good boy, Ambrose. You’re 304, for pity’s sake.” he snickered, Ambrose giggling and spinning on his heels playfully, Percy matching his energy. As always, Ambrose might appear quiet and docile at times, but he was a complete troublemaker sometimes! Yen Sid shook his head playfully, the villains retreating back into the mirror realm, Ursula still stuck floating and ending up walking on the ceiling, which made her rather dizzy and disoriented, Star couldn’t help but laugh at the sight. Percy bent down to Golden, she had bright eyes and a smile on her face, she seemed relieved that nothing had gone wrong, and that it had all turned out okay. “I’m glad…” she whispered, Percy nodding and gently ruffling her hair. “Likewise. I’m glad we had time on our side.” he smiled, glancing toward Yen Sid as Golden raised a confused eyebrow. There was a sudden darkness around the two, Yen Sid tensing up and raising his phoenix. “Move, you two!” he cried, but in that moment, a burst of magic shot forward, hitting both of them. Percy whizzed toward Aero, who managed to catch him, he was relatively unharmed, whilst Golden tumbled through the air, dropping her backpack as Julius and Scout both reached for it. As she was thrown toward Yen Sid, he held his arms out for her, but something strange happened as he reached for her…
Golden opened her eyes, finding herself in what looked like the void…she got up, feeling just as weightless and light as before, and silently cursed herself for dying again, she’d made a promise not to do that, and Oswald would kill her…unlike the last void, though, this place was warm, not uncomfortably so, but like the calm warmth of a hug…she was surprised, and looked around, trying to spot something, anything…she moved forward, and the ground illuminated with a thousand shooting stars, all flying up into an expanse of nothingness and causing her to shout in surprise. She found herself standing on what looked like a platform made of stained glass, noticing a huge illustration of Yen Sid asleep off to one side. Her eyes widened, she’d read about this before…and looked around, walking on top of various illustrations, there was Aero and the Wayfinders, the boys…Percy and his other former apprentices, Ambrose and his other siblings, and Master Grey… everyone Yen Sid cared for and loved. Star and Starlight were there too, and the council…she felt a wondrous sense of relief, and bent down, noticing one final illustration she hadn’t seen yet…herself, held in a blue circle close to him, as if he was protecting her from the frightening things that had happened, and keeping her safe and warm. She teared up slightly, though she wasn’t sure why, perhaps exhaustion from what had happened, or something else… “Dad…?” she whispered, feeling dreamlike and slow as the silent space echoed and reverberated with her voice. She didn’t FEEL dead…which was a relief, as last time that had surprisingly hurt, despite the fact she’d woken up again…now she was tranquil, almost like a dream, or inside her imagination, though it was too real for that, too vivid. She kneeled on top of her illustration, reaching out to touch Yen Sid’s outstretched palm, despite it being stained glass, it truly felt as if he was holding her hand, and tucking her in for the night…she yawned, and felt herself drift off into sleep, drained from the lack of magic, but feeling herself renew.
Yen Sid was unable to hide a little smile as Golden phased through him, touching his chest as he felt the shift in his heart. She’d be safe there, he’d protect her until she was ready to wake up again, and he stood up a little straighter, Vor glaring at him. “Lost another expendable, sorcerer?” she cackled, Yen Sid’s fist curling as he gritted his teeth. One word he’d always regret saying to anybody was that they were expendable, every life had worth and needed to be protected, at all costs, as lives were full of infinite potential, infinite wishes and dreams that needed to be treasured, sacred hearts beating inside their chests that were formed from a perfect balance of light and dark, that made them human. “Each of them…” he began, staring at everyone with a fire in his eyes, “are special. I love them all, and that’s none of your concern, you wretch!” he yelled, his phoenix letting out a mighty screech as four stars and a moon collected around it, Vor accepting the challenge and letting her own power build up, the two clashing as their magic was illuminated by the moon, Yen Sid’s phoenix seeming to build to unimaginable strength and starting to sparkle in the light. He gave an uncharacteristically gleeful grin, and crossed his arms, sending it forward, where it caught the locket in its beak, swooping up and letting out a cry to the heavens, the skies lighting up as if responding, phoenix silhouetted for a moment by the moon before swooping down and returning back to Yen Sid, who now held the locket tightly in his hands. He stared at Vor, with a slight smile, and watched as panic set in upon realising what had happened. She turned to Azurine, who had once again bound her in a rope, the Wayfinders joining in by freezing her with their keyblades, so now the witch couldn’t flee. “No, no, don’t you dare!! Azurine, please dear sister, don’t let him do this!” she begged, Azurine sighing and keeping her rope taut, though she was listening, giving Yen Sid a slight glance as he paused for a moment, allowing the girl to speak. “If you don’t want the locket to be destroyed, then…please, just release my sister.” she spoke, Vor glaring at her. “Fool, I AM your sister! Do as I say before I’m killed!” she pleaded, Yen Sid raising a palm before Azurine could protest. “You won’t die.” he spoke, Vor looking up at him with an enraged snarl, though listening all the same. “If I destroy this locket, your power will be destroyed too. It’ll be the end of you and your tyranny. And with any luck, you will become Prisma again.” he spoke, subtly winking toward Azurine that he had no intention to harm Prisma. Vor wasn’t ready to end it here, though, and balled up her fists, the crystal chains starting to break and the Wayfinders needing to put up a stronger barrier spell. “No, that power is mine!! It belongs to ME!” the witch cried, Aqua turning to Azurine. “We’ll protect you, let’s keep her held back with these crystals!” she nodded, Azurine giving a shaky nod. “I-I’ll try, I promise!” she called, Percy turning to Yen Sid. “Hurry, master!” he urged, Yen Sid putting the necklace on the ground, watching the Wayfinders keeping up the barrier bravely, though it was evident that they would be overpowered soon if he wasn’t fast. He tapped the necklace twice with the shatter stone, Vor’s eyes going wide as he raised it up a final time. “Don’t you dare, NO!” she cried, Yen Sid tapping it a final time, the locket starting to crack and crumble thanks to the magic, tendrils of magic appearing from inside. “No! It cannot be, you’ll pay!” Vor cried, breaking out of the crystal chains with a final move, swiping at Terra and Ventus, but to everyone’s surprise, they repelled her relatively easily with their Keyblades. “Your power is fading, you’re getting weaker!” Terra cheered, Ventus grinning and looking around, noticing a certain someone had run away from the fight like the coward he was. “It’s over!” he cheered, clinging to Terra who snickered and gently pushed him off. As the tendrils spread from the locket, they headed toward Golden’s backpack, grabbing the Wicked Nine and pulling them down into the locket, and then started on Vor herself, who felt them squeeze her as she shrunk, turning into a ball of darkness and leaving someone on the ground, who looked very disoriented and woozy. As the locket closed, trapping Vor inside again, it shone with stolen power, and broke into a thousand shards, Yen Sid scooping them up and Percy reaching into his robes, pulling out a small box. “You never know when you’ll need something!” he cheered, Yen Sid rolling his eyes but putting the shards inside, locking the box with a spell and putting it into his pocket. Of course Percival had the one thing they needed, of course. Prisma sat up, clutching her head as the dizziness faded, and Azurine rushed to her side. “A-Azur…ine?” the girl whispered, Azuring nodding and gently holding her. “Stay here, okay?” she whispered, watching as Yen Sid opened a gateway. The villains came out from hiding, trying to find their items, though they were nowhere to be seen. “Ha, you’re powerless!” Oswald snickered, earning a few unimpressed looks from the villains. “And you’re puny.” Maleficent retorted, Oswald rolling his eyes. “Oswald Roy Rabbit Symphonus is NOT puny! He is the strongest sorcerer that ever lived!” he smirked, using toon logic to turn himself buff and earning a laugh from Mickey and Julius. Yen Sid playfully shook his head. “We’ll see Oswald. I think amid all of this you completely forgot to start studying for finals.” he snickered, Oswald going red as a beetroot and wiping his brow, trying to act cool but realising he had royally messed up by not studying for these exams yet! “Stand back Ossie, this could get a little messy.” Yen Sid smiled, his rabbit son obediently stepping back and standing hand in hand with his brothers, as the gateway to the light realm opened, pulling in the villains and then trying to draw in Prisma. “NO, I don’t want to go, please!” she begged, Azurine grabbing her hands and trying to pull her back, as the strength of the realm pulled them both in. “Hold on, I’ve got you!” Azurine called, feeling Aqua grab her from behind, along with the other Wayfinders, and then everyone else, all managing to pull Prisma back until Yen Sid closed the gateway, everyone falling onto the floor rather dramatically. Despite the successful rescue, everyone’s faces were a mixture of emotions. Starlight, for one, was looking furiously at Prisma, annoyed that she’d tricked her best friend and manipulated her, whilst Percy looked quite worried, possibly unsure how to explain all this to the council, and silently praying he wouldn’t be removed, though he hated politics, he loved the irony of being a member! Aqua and Scout were full of mixed emotions, and Sonatina couldn’t bring herself to look at Prisma properly, who looked distraught at all she’d said and done, Azurine gently touching her shoulder. “I…know, I know I did so much to hurt all of you, I’m…I’m so sorry!” she wept, Azurine sighing. “Prisma…you know the consequences of messing with Vor, why would you do it again?” she whispered, melancholically staring at her sister, who shrugged. “I…I was foolish. I felt like I could gain something special…become stronger again. But…I was wrong.” she admitted, Yen Sid bending down to take her hand. “We’re not the one who deserves an apology, Prisma. We’re just lucky to have time and sorcery on our side.” he spoke, a seriousness written on his face that made the girl shrink slightly. “I…I understand.” she nodded, Oswald standing up straight. “What do you say I give her the ol’ one two?” he grinned, Yen Sid shaking his head. “Hang fire, bunny boy. We need you to first explain everything that happened in the mirror realm.” he spoke, Prisma sighing and nodding, Azurine meeting her gaze just as sternly. “Fine…”
“I suppose I should explain everything else first, though. After the last plan failed with Vor, I knew she needed more power if it was to work. She told me that she’d sensed a great source that had clashed with some of the pieces of her ring, and tried to find out information about it…I then met Vanitas, he was causing chaos on the Isles and found me, and released me…he was boasting about this treasure he’d stolen, we both knew of it and we put it into the locket, so Vor could grow in power. We then went searching, and came across Golden…Vor seemed to sense something about her, so we started to plant the seeds of ideas in her head, like her power being a hindrance…and then tricked her into giving it to me. Vor took it, and then…well you saw everything else.” she explained, Azurine looking puzzled by it all. “A treasure that was stolen?” she asked, Prisma nodding but seemingly refusing to elaborate. “I…um….” she stuttered, Yen Sid giving her a warning glare, and touching the box in his pocket. “Is there a way to recover the power that was stolen?” he asked, Prisma shrugging. “I don’t know! Where’s Golden anyway?” she asked, Yen Sid giving a frosty glare. “She’s SAFE. And that has nothing to do with you anymore. If I ever see you near my daughter again, I might end up doing something I’ll regret.” he warned, Azurine looking worried and holding Prisma’s arm, looking like a vulnerable little girl. “Please, don’t…Yen Sid?” she asked, Yen Sid noticing that fear in her eyes and calming himself slightly. “Azurine…I’ll let you decide what we do. I may have a number of ideas, but you’re her sister. I don’t want to be the reason that bond is broken.” he spoke, feeling Ambrose put a hand on his shoulder supportively. “And we’ll support you, Azurine. You are welcome to stay wherever you like, whether Yen Sid’s home or mine.” he offered, Azurine giving a sweet smile. “Prisma? I think I’ll hand you back over to the protectors. You’ll be in a lot of trouble, but I promise I’ll come and visit you.” she spoke, Prisma nodding and Yen Sid helping them both stand up. Azurine tightly hugged Prisma, and then Yen Sid opened a gateway to the Mystic Isles, Ambrose joining them just in case Prisma would try anything. Meanwhile, Yen Sid teleported everyone home, the family collapsing on the sofa.
“Gosh Ossie, it’s been a long time since I’ve heard you use your middle name!” Mickey giggled, Oswald rolling his eyes. “It was a heat of the moment thing, okay?!” he snarked, Julius laughing behind his hand. “So, you wanna bet you’re the greatest sorcerer ever?! Then get studying, idiot!” Julius replied, Oswald reaching over to whack his older brother. “Hey, I’ll get better marks than you any day, feline features!” he smirked, Julius accepting the challenge and the two going to grab their books. Mickey curled up under Sonatina’s arm, noticing Aero sitting beside him and playing with Star. “Aero? You did really great out there, haha!” He cheered, Aero going a little red. “Awww shucks, I…I just did what I could. We make a great team!” she smiled, reaching out her hand to fistbump Mickey, who returned the gesture. Scout put her feet up and headphones on, blocking out the world and vibing in her own way after such an exhausting day, whilst the Wayfinders found themselves hungry, the brooms going to prepare them all meals. Yen Sid headed up to the Observatory, where he noticed the millions of stars above, it reminded him of the evenings when Golden was very, very little, how she’d call them “twinkles”, and would try to draw them by putting indistinct pencil marks all over her paper…he smiled slightly, reminded of how he taught her about the constellations, all the stories held by the stars, and the summer and winter changes over Luminosa…he gently put a hand on his chest. “Even if you have no magic now, your apprenticeship won’t cease. You’re still my child, so you won’t be seen as any lesser just based on what you lack.” He felt a warmth in his heart, so she was listening, and happy…he touched his chest tenderly, it didn’t hurt, but he felt the need to be gentle…he smiled. “Stay there until you’re strong enough, little one.” he whispered, feeling his mouth turn up into a brighter smile…she was responding.
Aqua wandered into Golden’s room, it was around midnight now, they were all worn out and most were glad to sleep in their own beds that night, though one or two wanted to stay in the living room. Ambrose covered Azurine with a blanket as she slept on the sofa, the two having dealt with Prisma, and went to visit Yen Sid’s office, giving Aqua a soft smile as he did…she opened the door to Golden’s room, who was lying on her bed just as she had before, but she wasn’t dead…rather, comatose. She looked exactly like Ven when he’d lost his heart, and she noticed the wayfinder stuck on her wall, they were identical and she held it to her heart, glad that Yen Sid’s plan had worked. She leant down, and took Golden’s hand, gently rubbing it with her thumb. “Golden…you were reckless, but also brave and strong, just as always…hehe, you might not realise it but you did save us. All of us.” she whispered, leaning down to give her little sister a kiss on the head as she slept, and wishing her a good recovery. She then headed outside, noticing everyone was turning in for the night, and decided to head to bed herself, hoping Starlight would fill her mind with the sweetest dreams.
When morning rolled around, Aqua expected everyone to be sleeping in, grabbing a comb from her bedside as there was a knock at her door. “Come in!” she called, Aero flinging open the door and grinning. “Hey Aqua!” she grinned, moving over toward her, fully dressed in her pretty cyan robe, and righting her hat atop her head as it slipped. “Hey! Wow, you look chipper, I thought you’d be tired too.” she grinned, stifling a yawn and going through her little bag of belongings, pulling out some clothes and hanging them on the closet for when she actually got ready. “I’m okay, actually! I’ve been doing these morning exercises with Percy, he says they’re good for you, and it’s been fun outside since Terra and Ventus are doing Keyblade practice! It’s so entertaining to watch!” she giggled, Aqua snickering and remembering her days of practice with them, and how she was better than Terra and it frustrated him. “Hehe…yeah, it is fun to watch, though I could probably kick their butts easily in practice, especially Terra…where are the others?” she smiled, finishing brushing her hair and sliding some hairpins in it, to try and fix how it was falling over her eyes at the current moment. “Ahh, well the boys are all in the living room with Yen Sid…he’s a bit tired as you can obviously imagine, so they’re giving him some love and care. Scout is with Sonatina, I think they went to her house for a bit to do some baking or reading, I’m not so sure hehe. And Starlight and Star went to the skies, they wanted to go see some friends!” She explained, counting out everyone on her fingers. “Oh! And Azurine is also doing exercise, she’s a little sore after using so much magic from that special crystal of hers so Percy is helping her out, he said he learned all this from some doctor friend or something!” Aero finished, Aqua giggling at the very precise rundown of events. “You know? I think you should be hired as a narrator!” she chuckled, Aero laughing and flouncing out, Aqua getting ready in some casual clothes and freshening up, before heading downstairs, wanting to see what Mickey and the others were up to. Aero headed down into the living room too, and they smiled at the sight before them- Yen Sid was calmly resting on the couch in a blanket, Mickey snuggled under his arm, whilst Ambrose had his arm around the entire group, holding a sleepy Julius in his lap, and the two of them making some fun star patterns for Oswald to catch in the air, who was playfully zooming around with his ears, having had his coffee and now being energetic. “Slow ‘em down, Julius, I can’t fly that fast!” he whined, Julius giggling as he and Ambrose sped them up instead. “If I did, where’s the fun?” he smirked, Oswald rolling his eyes and trying to grab them again, Mickey cheering him on. “You got this in the bag, Ossie!” he giggled, Aero giving him a wave, it looked fun and she wondered if she could join in with her flight. “This looks fun! Hey Yen Sid, are you feeling okay?” she asked, Yen Sid giving a smile and nodding. “Yes, I’m fine…I am pretty worn out, though. An old sorcerer like me needs his rest and relaxation after such a tiring battle! I’ll just relax and unwind…” he smirked, Mickey giggling seeing his usually stern master resting, Yen Sid was normally such a busybody and always had something or other to attend to, so seeing him with his feet up was quite amusing. Aqua even giggled at it, she was so used to seeing him in his office that this was rather unusual for her. “You need anything, dad? I could get you some tea, fluff your pillow, or even rub your shoulders!” Mickey offered, the broomies shuffling over and putting down a plate of sweet treats for him. Yen Sid shook his head kindly. “Those all sound delightful, Mickey, but you’re alright…having you all beside me is enough for now, as it is…all of you are so wonderful.” he smiled, feeling his chest warm, she was listening and appreciating the words. He could feel she was healing, and might return soon, when she was ready. There was a warm feeling, and he felt a few tears start in his eyes. He wasn’t sure what this happiness was, but it was a sweet feeling. “Oh…oh my…” he croaked, everyone being surprised to see him crying, but it only made them cuddle him more. “She’s happy…” he mumbled, Mickey looking at him in surprise. “Who is?” he asked, looking at Aqua and Aero for a moment, while they were happy, they were equally confused, Aero mostly since she was scratching her head. Yen Sid sighed, and then smiled, Aqua nodding and reassuring him she understood, for the most part. “Well…it won’t hurt to explain. Golden actually dived into my heart earlier, since she needed a place to rest and recover after everything…that blast from Vor was dangerous, amongst the other injuries she sustained in the mirror realm, so I was more than happy to let her stay there. She’s safe and calm right now…but she hasn’t got her magic anymore, so she’ll need a little bit of gentle handling.” he explained, Oswald raising an eyebrow. “As gentle as the time you mollycoddled her like a mama bear?” he teased, Yen Sid flushing red at the memory. “NO!! Just…don’t attack her with magic or anything for now, gosh! You’re all using that against me still, I swear it’ll be held against me forever…” he groaned, Ambrose stifling a laugh. “Well you were always a soft little thing…remember that time you brought twelve chicks into your room inside your hat? I swear Grey saw red that day, and yet he let you heal them, they were all acting like you were their mama by the end!” Ambrose chortled, Yen Sid going even more red and pulling Ambrose’s hat over his face. “Hey!” the old master struggled to get it off, causing the entire group to laugh. “I remember you also took care of me when I got hurt, remember dad? That time I bumped my leg really hard on one of the rocks? You were like “ahhh let me kiss it better!” and all that!” Aero chortled, steam flying out of Yen Sid’s ears as he became more and more embarrassed. “So, you really ARE a mama bear!” Oswald proclaimed triumphantly, Yen Sid smirking and waving his hand, sending Oswald levitating up to the ceiling just as Star had done with Ursula. “Hey!!! DAD!” he groaned, everyone laughing, and then a bright light began to shine in Yen Sid’s chest, his heart coming out and glowing brightly in front of him, like a beautiful orb, it looked similar to the muse. “My heart…” he smiled, everyone staring in wonder at the sight, and watching as something appeared from inside, a little dim heart, which promptly flew through the halls, until it reached Golden’s room. Yen Sid gave a warm smile as his heart went back into his chest, and couldn’t help but feel relieved it had all worked. “There we go…time to wake up. I hope you slept well.” he whispered, and then…Golden opened her eyes.
Golden rubbed her eyes and yawned, her hair was sticking up and the sun was streaming in through her window…what time even was it? She checked the clock on her side and nearly died. “11:30?! Huh?!” she panicked, reaching for her sorcery book…had she missed a lesson, oh no, oh no?! But…then it all came back to her, and she realised what had happened, what was going on…and Yen Sid opened her door, Percy zooming in. “Luuuuumen!!! You’re awake, everyone is here!! I want the first hug!” he demanded, Golden giggling and reaching out her hands to catch the light ball, he transformed and she was sitting in his lap as he lovingly squeezed her. “Ahhh!!! It’s so good to have you back with us…wait a second. Master…” he looked slyly at Yen Sid, who raised an eyebrow, wishing he could see inside Percy’s head. “Since you were carrying a child, does that make you pregnant?” Percy grinned, Oswald cackling and actually falling to the floor, the entire family bursting into laughter, Yen Sid going bright red. “PERCIVAL!” he cried, facepalming, and Golden looked up nervously. “Dad was…huh?” she asked, Yen Sid immediately rushing over and putting a hand over Percy’s mouth. “Not. A. Word.” he warned, Percy snickering underneath his dad’s hand and giving him a very sly look. “Well, Lumen, when two people love each other very- ahh!” Percy cried, Yen Sid pulling out a jar and locking the light man inside! “No ice cream cake for you until you behave.” Yen Sid smirked, Percy’s muffled shouts inside being rather loud and infuriated, making everyone laugh even harder. Yen Sid bent down, bringing Golden into his arms. “How do you feel?” he whispered, Golden gently touching her chest. “Okay, I think…a little…um, empty? Is that the right word?” she asked, Yen Sid raising a curious eyebrow. “Empty how, dear?” he asked, Golden looking down slightly. “I-I’m not sure…I just…I feel pretty happy but also…not as happy as normal? I don’t know…” she sighed, leaning against him and Yen Sid gently stroking her hair. “Don’t you worry…I’ll find out what’s wrong, and we’ll work through it together, little one.” he smiled, Golden looking happier at the idea. “And…I’m sorry, dad. I…I didn’t mean to cause a mess!” she cried, Yen Sid shaking his head and smiling. “You might’ve caused some problems, but it’s nothing. The important part is you’re home, and I always said I’d protect you, which did.” he smiled, Golden burying her face into his robes. “I…I just cause trouble and grief…” she whispered, Yen Sid shaking his head and sitting down with her in his arms. “No…you are just a child. A child who has unfortunately been through a lot of things, but you’re still growing. You will make mistakes and cause trouble, that is how we learn, and we are human because of our flaws. Remember what your therapist told you?” he smiled, Golden nodding and taking his hand, Yen Sid calmly rubbing it just as Aqua had, the older girl coming to sit beside them. “Remember, Goldie? Strength comes from your heart. You can make mistakes, heck, I’ve made my fair share, but as long as you’re trying to do what’s right, you’ll always be forgiven.” she smiled, Golden feeling a few tears well up and wiping her eyes. “I…I was so scared of losing you all, I didn’t want it to happen, so I didn’t say anything…” she confessed, Yen Sid understanding. “Golden, I’ve been in a very similar situation, you know. I once was afraid of the people I loved getting hurt, so I didn’t tell them about a problem I could’ve easily avoided. If it wasn’t for someone very close to me…I might not be here today. What I’m asking is that you don’t make my mistake, and that you tell us when something is bothering or scaring you, no matter how big or small. Do you think you can do that for us from now on, lunula?” he asked, Golden nodding and giving a small smile. “I’ll try…” she whispered, Yen Sid looking genuinely proud. “That’s my girl…come on, up you come! Let’s go and see the broomies…”
Downstairs, Sonatina and Scout had just returned, with a fresh batch of cookies. Mum almost dropped them upon seeing Golden awake, and immediately ran toward Yen Sid, rushing to hug Golden, who yelped slightly but grinned at the affection. “Mama!” she called, Mum’s heart melting and squeezing the little girl as tightly as she could. “I’m so glad you’re okay…! I…I was so….” she couldn’t finish, she was struggling to hold back the tears, and Golden just returned the hug, she knew Mum just needed to hold her for now, and so she’d let her. Julius ran over, dragging Mickey behind him. “Goldie’s all better, yahoo!!” he grinned, jumping around in circles as Mickey laughed, not expecting to be spun around, but it was fun! “And she’ll be even better when she’s recovered her magic!” he cheered, Golden perking up. “Oh yeah…! Hmm, how are we gonna do that?” she asked, Yen Sid giving a soft smile. “That’s for us little geniuses to work out…after I explain all this to the council.” he chuckled, Ambrose nodding. “Speaking of which…I think we left Percy upstairs.” Ambrose giggled, Azurine going to fetch him, and the angry light man buzzing around Yen Sid’s head. “Annoyance annoyance annoyance! I will annoy you, master!” Percy cheered, Yen Sid trying to waft him away and eventually using a freeze spell. “I swear…Percival.” he groaned, Golden giggling at her big brother’s antics. “Well Goldie, looks like you’ll be stuck watching us do magic in the meantime! Maybe we’ll even graduate before ya!” Oswald teased, Golden sticking her tongue out at him. “As if! You wouldn’t know graduation if it smacked you in the face!” she retorted, Scout snickering as Oswald went red. “I’m glad you’re back, munchkin! Don’t do that again, you big idiot!” she laughed, Golden snickering. “Okay, okay! I admit I was an idiot, but it worked!” she grinned, Yen Sid rolling his eyes- the extent to which it had “worked” was debatable, but in any case, they were home. “Ooh, wait, are those cookies you’re holding? Gimme!” Golden nabbed them, Sonatina laughing and opening the bag for her. “Oh you silly thing…” she giggled, leaning her head atop Golden’s as she munched. “Hey! I couldn’t eat inside dad’s heart…you need to invest in air conditioning too, it gets really hot in there sometimes!” Golden laughed, Yen Sid rolling his eyes and then turning, hearing a tap at the window. Starlight and Star were outside, Starlight already had happy tears rolling down her cheeks as she saw Golden up and about, and upon being let in, Golden held out her arms for Starlight, the two squeezing each other as if they’d never let go.
As days went by, sometimes Golden would get out of bed and play with the broomies, they were all being pretty careful with her, but still wouldn’t say no to a good game of tag, and other days she’d sit in the study and read, trying to study for finals. She’d take some notes and read through her books, and was overall just trying to remember everything she’d learned in her five years of training, though a good chunk of it had been spent learning things about the world again! She’d excelled after getting her memories back, and was able to devote more time to actual schoolwork, rather than trying to understand what the heck a thermometer was. “Okay….” she mused, feeling a little down one day that she couldn’t actually do the magic she was reading about, but then again, she hadn’t managed to summon a keyblade, and yet it was essential for her to learn about… she tried to attend classes still, but being unable to do the practical side made it tough, and she did often feel down afterwards…but perhaps the examiner would take her circumstances into account during the finals? She exited the study and headed outside, spotting Yen Sid on the sofa, reading through the book of Vor, and sticking her tongue again. “Stupid book.” she hissed, Yen Sid shrugging. “Knowledge is power, little one.” he coaxed, but she folded her arms. “So is future sight, and that’s a pain!” she whined, Yen Sid chuckling and giving her a slight side-eye. “Well you don’t have it now.” he shrugged, Golden folding her arms even tighter. “Mmm…ugh, I can’t win! I want magic back but my magic is a pain!” she groaned, going to sit next to him. “Why are you even reading that, anyway? That bi….witch, she’s gone forever!” Golden asked, Yen Sid giving a slight chuckle and putting an arm around her. “Well…I have a hypothesis about how we can get your magic back. Based on the things Azurine has been telling me, and Vor…I think there’s a chance that we can release the power she stole, though it does pose a real risk.” he warned, Golden putting a hand to her chin in thought. “What sort of risk?” she asked, Yen Sid leading her through the halls as they talked. “Well…my hypothesis is that the power she stole now rests inside her locket. The only issue is that the Wicked Nine were absorbed inside, so releasing it might release them too…along with the witch.” he explained, Golden looking nervous. “Didn’t you shatter the locket?” she asked, Yen Sid nodding. “I did, but I kept the fragments just in case, should I need them. This is a large risk not only for you, but for everyone else…however, without putting the locket back together and releasing the stolen power, not only will you remain stripped of your magic forever, but an important relic will also be lost.” he spoke, Golden looking rather sad at the thought, the two wandering up to the observatory and the girl gently spinning the muse on its stand. “I don’t know what I want to do…” she sighed, Yen Sid shrugging slightly. “It’s up to you, and you alone. I can only tell you the facts, but any decision you make will be allowed. I know it’s hard.” he smiled, turning and leaving, Golden left to stare at the realms as they flew below her. It wasn’t quite evening yet, so she could see everything rather clearly, spotting a beautiful deer with bells in the Hollow, and the gorgeous shores of the Pastoral on the horizon, just coming into view… all of them had so much magic, and she loved to learn spells and tricks specific to each realm…but without her magic, she’d never be able to do so again. She huffed, and thought over it again and again, unable to come to a concrete solution.
As night set in, Yen Sid had shown her the fragments, and she’d kept them on her bedside table, now lying back on her bed with a pillow to her chest. She wasn’t sure how to feel…nervous, excited? Either way, her mind was racing with thoughts, and she almost wanted it to quiet down, since she was asking herself over and over how she’d ever reach her wish of being a master if she didn’t have magic, or even how she’d protect her family if they got attacked again… she turned onto her side, holding the pillow tighter, and noticed Scout’s tiger was still sitting on her bed, bringing it into her arms. “Mister Tiger, what do you think? The wicked nine are locked away, but so is a special item and my magic…is it selfish to want to get it back?” she mumbled, but her rambling was interrupted by Scout herself, opening the door and noticing Golden looked a little sad as she peeked in, giving her a wave. “Hey sis, you doing okay?” she asked, Golden nodding slightly and sitting up. “I’m…I think I’m alright. I’m just thinking.” she explained, Scout sitting down and tossing the pillow aside, gently reaching out to boop Golden’s stomach. “Well I guess that’s something! You’re still stuck, aren’tcha?” she asked, Golden nodding and flopping back onto the bed. “Yes…it’s so frustrating…” she hissed, Scout lying back alongside her and grunting as she hit her head on the wall, this bed was not built for someone her size! “I can imagine, but…like dad said, whatever choice you choose, we’ll support it.” she smiled, taking Golden’s hand, who turned to face her, curling up and moving her knees up to her chest slightly. “Thanks Scout…but what if neither choice is good? What if something happens regardless of what I pick? That’s why I can’t decide yet…” she mumbled, Scout giving her a gentle smile and tucking some hair behind her ear, noticing the fading scar on her head from all that time ago. She sighed slightly. “Well…I can’t persuade you with either, but the only thing I can think of is that you make the choice. I know that doesn’t help one bit, but I can’t decide it for you.” she explained, Golden shrugging and sitting up. “Isn’t there another way? I…want to keep the magic I’ve trained for, I worked really hard because I wanted to catch up with everyone, even though I’m little…but I do NOT want anything bad to happen! I almost died…” she mumbled, Scout not having the heart to explain the fact that she had in fact died and required a time travel rescue… “None of us want a repeat, Golden…trust me, I can tell you that for sure. But if in doubt, there’s always the stars. They’ll always guide you if you need help, and I never stopped wishing on them, and hoping I’d see Mum again…” she explained, Golden looking at her with an intrigued expression. “Ha, sorry to ramble! It’s getting late hehe, dad will tell us off if we stay up late! And no, studying isn’t an excuse!” she giggled, tickling Golden and blowing a raspberry on her tummy, sending the little girl into fits of laughter. “You sound like dad!” she wheezed, Scout rolling her eyes playfully as Golden cackled with laughter. “What can I say? Like master, like apprentice! Goodnight Golden!” she smirked, sitting up and jumping off the bed, swinging round on the doorframe to give her little sister a wave. “Goodnight, big sis!” Golden grinned, the door clicking shut and leaving her in the dark, save for the glow of the moon streaming through the curtains…she moved toward the tapestry on one of her walls, the depiction of the glowing yellow moon, shaped just like her own heart, and traced her fingers over it. “What would you choose…?’ she whispered, imagining what might happen if the moon lost all its magic, maybe the entire sky would go out…nevertheless, she knew the stars would never fail her. She peeked around the door, making sure absolutely nobody would hear her as she remembered the song she’d sung with Aero so long ago. She looked nervously up at the stars, and put a hand against the window, softly singing out to them. “S-Stars above I’m begging you now to guide me…” she whispered the first line, stuttering slightly as she felt a redness in her cheeks, it seemed silly to be singing to the stars… “For I find myself in need of a sign…” she continued, the glass was cold against her warm hand, which was nervous and steadily growing warmer… “All these broken roads and paths are still unwinding…and I need to make a choice that’ll make them align…” she quietly sang, looking all the way up at the brightest star in the sky, she hadn’t made a wish in some time, but Yen Sid never called them childish or weird for doing so, in fact, he loved the stars himself. “Please…if you can give me any help or guidance…I don’t know what to do, what should I do here? I’m really torn between my family and my future and I know it seems really selfish but I’ve worked really hard to get where I am, I wanted to be just like papa so I tried to do my best and work hard every day…I don’t want it to be a waste, but I also don’t want anything bad to happen just because I’m trying to achieve my dream…” she spoke, rubbing her eyes and realising she was rambling a bit. “Um…so what I’m asking is that you help me find the answer to what I should choose…” she finished, closing her eyes and sending her wish all the way up to the brightest star in the sky, so someone out there might hear it. As she got dressed in her pyjamas and climbed into bed, she wondered how wishing stars came to be, and how they learned to grant wishes…she yawned as she thought, and remembered the warmth of her dad’s heart as she snuggled under the covers, though she was glad to be out of there, he had protected her during that scary time, and she truly felt loved in there…she smiled slightly to herself, and thought about how big her family had grown, glancing at the large photo frame she’d been gifted years ago. She was one lucky girl.
The morning rolled around, and Golden awoke to hear the chatter from downstairs, it seemed Percy had made it his mission to send the brooms parading round, and was loudly giving them instructions. She rubbed her eyes, the decision still weighing on her mind, it was genuinely driving her nuts, and she wanted nothing more than to get it done. Starlight flew in through the window, giving her a wave. “Good morning sleepyhead!” she smiled, booping Golden’s nose as Star would often do, and Golden held out her arms. “Good morning Starlight... agh, another day, another choice, but I’ve been thinking actually…” she smiled, Starlight tilting her head curiously and wondering what could be on her best friend’s mind. “My powers might not come back unless I restore the locket…because then Vor might come back. But what if there’s something that could destroy her power…?” she wondered, Starlight creasing her face in confusion. “I’m not following you.” she replied, Golden continuing to ramble her thoughts aloud. “Well…dad said that dark magic is flawed because it can make the user overconfident, irrational, and magic requires a logical mind to work…so I wonder if…” she mused, before suddenly feeling Starlight grab at her pyjama shirt. “Golden, I don’t CARE if you get your magic back or not, I just…I don’t ever want to lose you again! Please…I-I don’t want you to die or get hurt…I just want you here with me, like it’s always been.” she whispered, Golden gently stroking Starlight and realising she hadn’t exactly considered the glowworm’s feelings. “Oh Starlight, I know…but you know I need my magic, remember my wish? All I wanted then and now is to do magic like dad, and eventually become a master, but for that I need to have my powers. Plus…it’s saved me many times, and saved dad, Percy…everyone really! I…can’t have one without the other.” she admitted, Starlight gently reaching up to brush a hair out of her friend’s face. “So…what are you going to do?” the glowworm whispered, Golden getting out of bed and holding her close, putting on some slippers. “Well first of all, I’m gonna get breakfast, or dad will scold me. And then we can go to the study and look at that darn book. Even though I hate it, there might be some useful information in there.” she explained, Starlight nodding and sitting on her shoulder. “Perhaps you can ask others for information too? Azurine could know something, maybe? She seemed to know about this item, though…Prisma didn’t seem to want to talk about it, silly lady.” the glowworm huffed, folding her arms and pouting, despite the angry look, she ended up just looking kinda cute instead. “Of course…that’s a great idea. Come on then!” Golden smiled, heading downstairs and doing her usual routine, Starlight joining her and putting on a hoodie that Mum had knitted for her, it was pink and fluffy. “Hey Goldie, did you know that glowworm tails are what let us fly?” she asked, as Golden brushed her teeth, the girl shaking her head. “No? Well they’re our little source that make us go! And then our chests have all these special emblems on them, so we can do different things, hehe! In my case, when you were little you used to point at them and press them to make me sing, haha!” she laughed, Golden going a little red at the memories, but they were sweet, even if it was a long time ago. She finished dressing and headed into the study, Starlight flying after her, and noticed the boys were studying for finals. It seemed now the only one slacking was Scout, though perhaps she was using a more unconventional method to study, like making up a song? Nevertheless, Golden grabbed the book from the shelves, and sat with the boys. “Hey Golden! Whatcha doing?” Mickey smiled, Golden giving them a wave and showing the cover of the book. “Just grabbing this book…” she replied, all three boys looking at each other in slight confusion. “You sure you wanna read that Goldie? It could still be really dangerous…” Oswald pouted, raising an eyebrow at her. Julius nodded, nervously burrowing into his robes slightly. “Maybe you should ask dad first…” he whimpered, Golden agreeing and heading out to go and find him. “Yeah…that’s probably a good idea, he might know more. Thanks guys, good luck with the studying!” she grinned, giving them a wave as the boys called their thanks after her. Heading through the halls, Golden started flipping through the book, Starlight watching from over her shoulder. “Ugh, she’s ugly! Her crown would look better if it was like my hat!” Starlight giggled, pointing down at the illustration of Vor as Golden snickered. “Imagine glowworms that looked like villains, that would be weird!” she chortled, Starlight nodding. “Well apart from that nuisance Fireworm, there’s nobody else that’s a problem!” she spoke, Golden looking intrigued- Starlight had never mentioned a rival before. “Fireworm?” she asked softly, forgetting all about telling Yen Sid and instead sitting down on a chair outside one of the classrooms, wondering what Starlight could be on about. “Yeah! She wanted to take my role when we were both working together, she’s so annoying! And like, red isn’t even THAT cool!” Starlight huffed, Golden giggling at her rant and continuing to look down at the book. “I wear red, hey!” she pointed out, Starlight shrugging. “Glowworms look weird in red. We look good in pastels, but she looks like a firetruck on steroids!” she rolled her eyes, Golden wondering why Starlight seemed to be so fixated on telling stories today, but she tended to ramble a lot when she was happy. “Anyway…Moonie, Sparkles and Cloudjumper all wanted to wish you a speedy recovery, and that you get magic back soon. Cloudy’s been taking care of Baa-Baa for me too!” Starlight continued to ramble, Golden smiling as she spoke, though her attention was now partially on the book again, she didn’t mind listening to her best friend chattering away. Golden flipped to another page, finding a beautiful illustration, it was a drawing of the Protectors. She stared down at them, and started to read. “Orion is a…Windwalker? What’s one of those, hm? And that’s a Crystal Fairy…oh, I wonder if Azurine knows her? An elf…a giant…ooh, awesome! Look, there’s a faun! And he’s called…Turon, he looks like the satyrs from the Pastoral!” she spoke gleefully, Starlight wriggling on her shoulder so she could see better. “Your hair is blocking it!” she cried, waving her wand and making all of Golden’s hair float like she was underwater, which felt very funny! “And another windwalker…and woah, a mermaid! And then…” she stared down at a young girl standing in front of them all, there was something beautiful around her neck, a pink amulet that seemed to shimmer, despite just being an illustration. “Wow…is she a princess?” she gasped, Starlight taking a look. “Aww, she has a pretty crown, look Goldie!” she grinned. Golden took a closer look, and nodded. “Yeah, and her dress is pretty too! Remember when we used to play princesses?” she giggled, Starlight nodding and thinking back to how Golden used to try on all sorts of dresses and crowns when she was small. Azurine then passed through, having gotten a little lost amid the halls and passageways, and noticing the duo. “Oh, hello you two…” she smiled, Starlight flying up and realising Golden’s hair still looked funny, deciding to fix it before Azurine realised. “Hi Azurine!” Golden smiled, her hand still resting atop the illustration and Azurine noticing. “Oh, you’re reading about the protectors…?” she asked, Golden nodding. “Yes! They look amazing, look, there’s a princess with a pretty necklace!” she giggled, Azurine taking a peek and realising just who Golden meant. “Oh…yes, that’s a friend of mine actually.” she explained, Golden’s eyes lighting up at the idea Azurine was friends with a princess! “That necklace around her neck? That is what I’m trying to find…I believe Prisma and Vanitas stole it.” Azurine sighed, taking a seat as Golden closed the book, Starlight floating midair next to them. “So…that necklace is the other thing trapped in the locket, then?” Golden asked, Azurine shrugging. “It could be…Prisma didn’t seem keen on telling me…” she spoke sadly, Golden gently patting her back, she knew how it felt to be separated from people she loved, and didn’t like Azurine feeling so down. “Hey, it’ll be okay…maybe if she’s good, she’ll get let out?” Golden tried, Azurine shrugging. “I just hope she’ll learn her lesson this time…she almost hurt that poor princess last time, and this time she and that awful dark edgelord went after you…it’s not fair.” the older girl sighed, Golden looking a little downcast but feeling optimistic. “Hey…what is the necklace? Why’s it special?” she asked, Azurine giving a small smile. “It’s the Amulet of Avalor. Those who wear it are granted a magical ability or a curse, based on every good or bad deed they do. If anyone steals the amulet, a curse will be placed upon them, and it protects the young princess from all sorts of evil.” she explained, Golden looking a bit apprehensive at the word ‘curse’. “Heck, I hope I’m not stealing then, yikes! But hey…it’s do or die, and uh, I’ve died before haha.” she smirked, Starlight folding her arms. “Golden!!” she frowned, Golden looking a bit sheepish. “Sorry! I’ve got a warped sense of humour, hehe!” she scratched her cheek, Azurine giggling, she was used to dark humour since Prisma used to tell all sorts of edgy jokes as a child. “Well I’m glad you find it funny, missy…” Starlight rolled her eyes, settling on top of her best friend’s head and looking at Azurine. “So…if we recover the amulet, does that mean the princess will get it back?” she asked, Azurine nodding at the little glowworm. “Yes, I’d likely tell her to come here, she loves exploration and would be more than happy to have a little trip…maybe it could be a thank-you gift if you manage it, Goldie?” she offered, Golden looking ecstatic at the mere thought of meeting a princess, she knew of them from books and stories Yen Sid would tell her, and her favourite was always Belle, but meeting a princess would be a dream come true! “That would be amazing! Ahhh, I have to tell dad!” she squealed, running off as Starlight struggled to keep up, Azurine finding her way downstairs and smiling, now feeling a little more hopeful about what was admittedly a very tough situation.
“Slow down Goldie, I can't fly very fast indoors!!” Starlight huffed, Golden slowing when she realised Yen Sid wasn’t in his office. “Aw man! Is he in the observatory?” she whined, Starlight settling on her shoulder. “So…this amulet, what are you thinking exactly?” the little glowworm asked, Golden shrugging. “Well, I’m no princess, but…it might help? Unless it curses me and turns me into a frog or something, haha!” she laughed, she seemed rather uplifted by the thought of helping another person recover a magical object, it seemed to be very important to both Azurine and this little princess, so if she could help, that would make any bad things worth it. “Heck, if Vor comes back then we can just beat her into a squishy pulp!” the little girl giggled, Starlight smacking her head. “Are you sure she won’t do that to you?” she frowned, Golden rolling her eyes. “I’d like to see her try! She’s just a wailing old lady, hahaha!” she laughed, Starlight looking a little nervous but glad Golden was in a sillier mood, and a lot happier, she didn’t seem half as worried as when they’d encountered her in the catacombs of the light realm. “Hey, tonight can you protect the stars for me? I made a wish, and they’ll need someone to guide them!” she smiled, Starlight going a little red and nodding. “O-of course! I always guide your dreams…and wishes.” she admitted, Golden giving a warm smile and squeezing her best friend. They parted ways at the stairwell to the Observatory, and Golden ran up. “Dad! I…think I’m ready.” she smiled, Yen Sid turning to face her, silhouetted against the light flooding into the room, the sun was high in the sky, and it was flooding the realms with light. “What will it be?” he asked, and Golden shyly held her book a little tighter. “I did some research…and I think we should restore the locket. Even if something bad might happen, I found out there’s an amulet in there that was stolen, so it might help me if I’m lucky. I’m not certain, but…it feels right.” she explained, Yen Sid giving a small smile. “I see…you’re absolutely sure about this choice?” he asked, Golden nodding resolutely. “I can’t rely on what-ifs my whole life, can I?” she chuckled, Yen Sid opening his arms for a hug. “Then I’ll support this decision. You seem very confident, and that makes me proud to see. Run along and get the box, and let us begin.”
Golden rushed to him, falling into his warm and welcoming embrace. She held onto him tightly, and felt an urge to keep holding on, as if she’d never experience this moment again. She wanted to hope that it wouldn’t be all for nothing, a spark ignited as she thought back to times before, with the Evil Queen, Pete, Maleficent and the Coachman, her power awakened in a way she never once imagined herself going through, it came to her just in the nick of time when she was in deep despair, separated from her family. She wondered if she would die that day, but there was something that kept her from saying goodbye forever, maybe it was the love her family had in their hearts for her. She knew Yen Sid’s was mighty and strong, after spending a while in his heart, she couldn’t deny that fact. Eventually, as much as they wished they could stay together, they separated from the hug, Yen Sid gently pushing away a few locks from Golden’s face, seeing her smile softly up at him with her calm, sparkling eyes. Running to go get the box, Yen Sid retreated to his office to prepare everything, he knew during the next few hours, he couldn’t support Golden alone, he’d need the others there with him, all rooting for Golden all at once as she would go and challenge the dark witch, he decided that once Golden had begun her next mission, he’d inform his apprentices and Ambrose and wait in the Observatory. “Dad?” a little voice broke him out of his deep thoughts. Golden stood by the doorway, the box securely held in her small hands. Yen Sid breathed a soft sigh, and smiled at Golden, inviting her in. “Are you ready?” he asked her, taking one of her hands in his, the size contrasting greatly. Yen Sid had realised that despite how mature Golden was at times, and was a highly skilled apprentice in the field of sorcery, she was still just a little kid, only a few weeks away from turning ten…that’s right, her birthday…it was coming up, and the old sorcerer knew now more than ever that Golden had to come out of this alive, no matter the risks, sometimes they were worth taking. “I’m…I’m ready…born ready!” piped Golden, her cheeks flushed with both nervousness and excitement. Taking the box from her, Yen Sid opened it up and reached inside, taking out the shards of the locket, they thankfully weren’t too sharp or pointy, so Yen Sid didn't have to worry about Golden accidentally cutting herself. “Here, why don’t you put the locket back together?” he said, winking at her. “It’ll be like a little puzzle, and I know you’re good at those, aren’t you?” he playfully nudged Golden in the shoulder with his elbow, earning a bright giggle from her. “Alright! Hehe! Let me see…hmm, this is like when I have those puzzle racing games with Percy…I gotta think fast and stay focused…!” Golden mused as she picked up two shards, holding them up to the window in the light to get a better look at the broken edges. It took her a few minutes, but she successfully put all the pieces together, and the locket began to whole itself anew again. Golden picked up the locket, holding it proudly in her palms and feeling a new feeling of joy washing over her. “There we go!” she beamed, “All done!” Yen Sid leaned down a little to get a look at the new locket, watching it gleam as it reflected the windows and candles. He smirked at her, once more nudging her in the shoulder. “Well well, look at that?” he joked, “It almost looks like a real locket again, but this is close enough!” He ruffled Golden’s hair, making it look like her messy bedhead, making Golden laugh and swat at his hands to get him off, clutching onto the locket so wouldn’t drop it. “It IS a real locket, hahaha!” she giggled. “Now stop teasing me, you old hag, you know I put it right!” Yen Sid smirked again, and this time he flicked her nose in a small but friendly warning. “Now missy, no calling your old dad a hag.” he told her. “Now, I believe you’re ready. All you need to do is take the first step.” He waved his hand over the locket, helping to fuse the locket a little further, it looked as though it had never broken before. “There…do you feel its power, Golden?” Golden pulled the locket a little closer to her chest, the power felt like a magnet as it neared her heart. “Well…it’s there, but…it’s very faint. Dad…?” she looked up at him, her expression longing for one last sentence of reassurance, she could feel its strength getting stronger, and she felt heavier. “I believe in you, Golden.” Yen Sid said in a slightly firm tone. “Whatever happens, don’t give up.” There was a brief enough second for Yen Sid to see Golden nod at him, before she vanished, in a bright flash of green, the locket fell and was caught in Yen Sid’s hands. He immediately left his office, ready to tell his apprentices, Ambrose, Sonatina, everyone…even the broomies. All he needed to do afterward was wait and hope.
Golden felt like she had been sucked in by a powerful suction of air, unable to move her arms or legs or even blink. Once she was stable inside the locket, she looked at her surroundings, crystals, and a dark atmosphere that told her danger was lurking. She kept her guard up, there was no turning back now, and she was ready for it. And upon moving to her left, she let out a terrified scream. “YOU!” Vor’s face appeared suddenly in the crystalised walls, enlarged to the point she looked more imposing than before. Although Golden was afraid, she didn’t let it cloud her head, and rose to her feet once more. “Yes, it’s me…” Golden scowled, balling her fists as her fight or flight turned to the former, raising her fists like she would when conjuring her magic. “Give me back my magic, you bi-” The floor beneath her cracked, and she slipped down a crevice, yelping as she lost her footing, Golden tumbled and almost fell head first onto a large crystal geode at the bottom, but something pulled her up, and it hurt a little as it surprised her. “Ahh! What the?!” Golden felt around her body, wondering if something had grabbed her, but there wasn’t anything. Thankful, she tried lifting herself up, until Vor’s voice shattered the atmosphere like a straight clean cut of a knife. “Oh, what an impudent little brat with a demanding tone!” Vor cackled, her face appearing on the walls in several places, glaring and grinning down at the small girl with no magic, who looked like a sitting duck where she was. “Ohh it is a shame Yen Sid couldn’t have taught you how to control that nasty temper, child. You haven’t the slightest idea who you’re up against!” Golden brushed herself down, rubbing softly at her arm where the pain had reached her. She shot a share back at Vor, looking more annoyed than intimidated, it was probably a dumb choice to speak back at Vor given how vulnerable she was, but Golden shook it off, she wasn’t afraid to speak her mind to the villains. “My temper?” she scoffed, rolling her eyes exaggeratedly. “I’m not the one stuck in a necklace with no escape, stupid witch. Also, aren’t those you tried to destroy kinda still around? Yeah, you really suck.” Vor’s face grew even angrier, a vein popped visibly on her forehead and between her eyes. Disappearing from the crystal walls, Vor appeared out of the darkness and grabbed Golden by her shoulder, pinning her against the ice cold stones. “Don’t get smart.” she snarled viciously, her nose just inches away from Golden’s face. “Need I remind that pathetic little brain of yours that you willingly gave the locket to me?! Don’t deny that, if you didn’t I wouldn’t have been released…” Golden stiffened, feeling a struggle to free herself, but Vor had a terribly strong hold, with just one hand and the little girl could barely move. Golden glared back, baring her teeth at the mad witch. “Actually…” she hissed. “I gave the locket to PRISMA! She did lie to me, and I felt so betrayed by what she did, but never would I have given it to someone like you!” Vor lifted an eyebrow, her expression softening only slightly before it changed into a vile, twisted grin. Green smoke emerged from behind her, turning into tendrils that rose above her much like Ursula’s tentacles, they curled and knotted themselves around Golden’s wrists and ankles. Vor snapped her long fingers, and something began to change, Golden felt herself slipping again as the smokey tendrils dragged her away. “You want the necklace so badly, child?” snickered Vor wickedly. “Well then, I’ll let you have it, once you’ve spent a little time in MY world…oh, and don’t worry, precious papa, I’ll make sure her mind isn’t just broken, but completely shattered…!” The smoke evaporated like a firework, and Golden was gone. No longer was she in the necklace, at least not entirely, Vor had sent her to her own little world, and Yen Sid knew just what horrors this would entail for his little daughter. “Vor, STOP!” he cried, from the outside, he could see Vor’s malicious smile as she cackled maniacally, looking like she had already won the intense battle, and she too then disappeared. In desperation, Yen Sid tried to pry open the locket, even channelling his magic into his strength to do so, but the locket was tightly shut, there was no way in. “Yen Sid, please calm yourself.” said Ambrose, gently taking his younger brother by the shoulders as Yen Sid slowed down, only staring at the locket where Golden was now a prisoner, could she even hear him now? Just where was she? All these thoughts gave an air of worry to the Symphonus family as the weight of the reality hit them that what happened previously, could be repeating itself. “Oh no, not again…” whispered Yen Sid, his hands shaking with the locket. Ambrose slowly pulled his brother closer, holding him as a small token of comfort, it was all he could do. Scout gripped her mother’s hand, who looked just as worried. The three brothers huddled together next to Aero and the broomies, just hoping and believing for Golden, Percy could only exchange nervous glances with the Wayfinders, the Observatory was utterly quiet, minus everyone’s breathing. They all wanted to believe Golden would win, she sounded so confident earlier, and that’s the belief they held onto, but the odds were against her lack of magic, and the outcomes were doubtful. And one thing for certain, was that Vor wasn’t going to let any one of them interfere.
Everything stopped, even time felt like it stopped. Golden’s eyes snapped open, Vor was gone and her environment had changed, yet it was all too familiar to her. There were shadows everywhere, no source of light or a presence of another figure. Golden found she was no longer bound, and freely moved her arms, searching for anything, anyone that might be around in the dark. “Hello?” she peeped softly, thinking her magic would come in handy at this point. A cackle was her one response, whipping around, Golden saw Vor appear behind her, her smile was as nasty and cruel as before, with an aura of full blown confidence and villainous bravado, the crown atop her head gleaming tall and bright. “Oh well well well…” Vor grinned, slowly approaching the small girl. “Here we are, meeting again! Oh, but so sad, your papa and his little gaggle of followers aren’t here to encourage and support you, oh boo hoo!” she put on a pathetic, weepy voice, pretending to wipe away tears to further mock Golden’s situation. Golden seethed under her breath, watching Vor for any sudden movements, though she found difficulty in ignoring her mocking. “So, you’re here with me, all alone.” Vor went on sarcastically. “And yet despite all of that, and your little lacking in magic, you still dare come at me and demand I hand it over? Ahaha…you’ve made one big mistake.” She gave a wave of her hand, a green, smokey tendril was sent toward Golden, it coiled around her, squeezing with enough strength to make her lose her breath a little. Vor beckoned the smoke, and it brought Golden closer to her, making them eye level with each other once more. “The thing with me, kid, is that I can see everyone’s fears. I know their deepest anxieties, their panic triggers, and their darkest impulses. Hehehehee~ Hmm, and yours are truly something.” The witch grinned as the tendril slowly wisped around Golden’s head, under her chin, Golden inhaled sharply as she remained tightly bound within its grasp. “I daresay, your fears are quite beautiful.” Vor smirked with a second snap of her fingers, several objects appeared everywhere, in all corners and directions, Golden shot her head up, anxiously getting a good look at what they were, when she realised they were all mirrors, she felt a sudden chill down her spine like she was hit with a blast of freezing air, she couldn’t pinpoint why she felt this way upon looking at mirrors, what reason was there to be afraid of mirrors? The green smoke cleared, leaving Golden free to move her limbs, she scowled furiously at Vor, who waved her fingers slyly as the witch began to fade back into the darkness behind the mirrors. “Where are you going?” Golden cried out, stumbling as she got back up. “Come back and fight fair, you cowardly hag!” Vor’s cackle echoed throughout the vicinity, echoing all around, it was a little overwhelming for Golden to be hearing it from each area of the field. The cackle was not uproarious and screechy, it was eerily soft and high-pitched… “Fair, you say?” said Vor’s disembodied voice. “In my lair? Ohohoho…~ I think not, child. I think this is a much better alternative! Now then…let’s examine these little fears of yours, shall we?”
One of the mirrors flipped, before coming to a still, Golden could see herself, except not herself as she was now. In the mirror's glass, a glitching, terrified looking Golden was staring back at her, the glitching was making her whole body twitch and wraith, her chest was glowing, sometimes flashing, the glitching was so bad and out of control, that it had taken over her heart. The young girl gasped, covering her mouth, the glitching Golden staring back and collapsed, and stopped moving, as did her heart… “Oh my…” Golden squeaked, barely even whispering. Vor was NOT playing around. Another mirror flipped, heart in mouth, Golden anticipated another terrifying fear to come to burst into life, a face appeared, a dark figure, who’s cruel smile and yellow eyes were enough to keep her from moving on the spot. “Vanitas…!” Golden felt tears of betrayal blur her vision, she trusted this boy, thinking he was the all known and heroic keyblade wielder that had joined her in her mission to save her loved ones, how pointless it had all been, how she had been had by both Prisma and Vanitas. She shrank a little as Vanitas pointed the tip of his dark keyblade right at her face. “Aww, you gonna cry, light spec?” he taunted with a giggle. Another mirror flipped, and Golden squeezed her eyes shut, she refused to look any more at the mirrors and her manifested fears. “Ohh, I think she already is.” Another voice spoke, Golden gasped again, she knew that voice all too well, how was he even in her mind still? Turning her head as slowly as she could, she saw in the newly lit up mirror, the worst one she had seen yet, the man who tried to kidnap her, once and then twice, the man who always had a cigarette on him, Andrew. Golden hid in her hands, already feeling her skin going cold and the colour draining from her face, she wanted to throw up, but her system was empty. She slowly reached her fingers up into her ears, not wanting to hear their evil cackles and jeers. Another mirror flipped, and lit up with a horrible image, an apparition that resembled her, the hair matted and all askew, her face bruised and covered in fresh cuts, her eyes were blackened, and one of her arms looked broken, and then in a flash she was normal again, until something not in the mirror’s image had blasted her, sending her flying and getting battered again, and again until she was beaten again…it kept repeating itself, and it wouldn’t stop. Then the worst image of all appeared in that exact mirror, Golden was laying flat and firmly on the ground, with each of her beloved family and the wonderful friends she met in life, were sending out each of their attacks one by one, killing her, bringing her back to life, repeat…another apparition as a mirror flipped, Golden was alone, wandering the dark, trapped and without the sight or sound of anyone, but herself. The lonely void…where’d she spend an eternal darkness by herself. By the end, Golden had her hands over her ears and her eyes squeezed as tight as possible, not wanting to look nor listen to what could possibly come next from this, and feeling frightened beyond belief. She tried to remember something that could help, thinking of her family, but that only triggered the mirrors to become louder, almost overpoweringly so as the sounds and sights grew in magnitude, twisted and terrifying as they took over all the silence. She tried to think back to some happy memories, some good days…she first remembered the day she got her memories back, how good that had felt, even if she still missed her parents, they lived inside her heart, and would stay there.
There was a sudden sound from behind her, a voice… and then several voices. She wanted to look, but she was still afraid…though it suddenly felt like there were several hands on her shoulders, keeping her steady whilst she stood with her eyes closed. The first one spoke up, drowning out the sounds as if it was hooked up to an enormous set of speakers, like the ones Scout was banned from using at home… "I know you always try to do the right thing. And I believe in you the whole way, okay?” Golden was startled, but knew immediately who said that, opening an eye as she heard Starlight’s voice echoing throughout the expanse, yet there was nobody about…why could she hear them? Another one spoke up. “You’ve got strength in your heart." Golden’s face changed to a grin, Aqua, she’d never forgotten that phrase and always tried to remember it when she was afraid… Having opened her eyes, she realised she was staring at Andrew in the mirror, and almost shut them again, until she heard another voice. "Hey little sis, I heard you.” She turned, yes, Scout had helped her back when she faced those other illusions…was it possible all of this was just smoke…and literal mirrors? She couldn’t help but smile, she’d grown more confident, and was far less afraid of what lay in the mirrors, she had her family backing her up! As a chorus of voices called out, she heard Mako, Delphis, Aero and Aqua…Mickey, Starlight and Sonatina, Oswald, Scout and Julius…and loudest of all… “My dear child… I don’t ever want you to feel fear, but you know that I’ll always be there to protect and teach you, and keep you safe from anything that may try to harm you. That I promise, at all costs.” Golden’s heart felt warm, as if all of the warmth stored inside his was being transferred to her, and like a phoenix, she’d rise again… she gritted her teeth, turning to face each of the fears, some of them looked rather taken aback. “You all may frighten me…but I won’t let you stop me! I’m gonna be a master sorcerer, and I’ll be able to stop all of you, no matter what!” she called, Vor being surprised at the change in tone, as the chorus of voices became louder and louder, cheering her on despite the hardships and harshness of the world. Vor felt a rising burst of energy, despite the fact the child had no magic, and scowled at her newfound determination, though she couldn’t hear the words of encouragement herself. Golden gave a grin, and then, every single one of the mirrors shattered into a thousand pieces, taking the frightening things with them and leaving the little girl surrounded by a pile of shards. She raised her head, and noticed Vor standing there, raising an eyebrow.
“Originally, I would’ve made you an offer to reprieve yourself of all those fears…but it seems you embrace death, or perhaps…death embraces you?” she smirked, Golden balling her fists. “Dying…it’s a scary thought but…but I’ll always be around, even when people can’t see me! And I’ve come back before, I trust my family to keep me safe and protected, and I’ll walk through hell and back for them!” she declared, Vor smirking. “Well for that you’ve come to the right place. Don’t expect me to play nice with you, even if you have no powers, brat.” the witch grinned, before raising her hand and creating a swirl of energy. Golden raised her hands, preparing to try and block, and was struck, smacking into a wall…wait, a wall? An idea came to mind, since this had a different atmosphere from the locket, were they in a cocoon, of sorts? If so, she was happy to clamber out like a butterfly. Golden was fully aware that Prisma had likely taken her ability to be revived, but she was still able to dodge, and continued to dodge the blasts, until Vor suddenly sent out a coil, grabbing the girl’s waist and sending her slamming into the wall itself. Golden groaned slightly as she felt herself go dizzy from such a strike to the head, but then noticed a crack…peeking through, she noticed the crystals from before…she really was in a little prison, but if she could get out, there was a chance that the amulet might help her…she hoped so, anyway, the last thing she needed was a curse right now. Vor smirked. “I see your precious papa put you under physical training too? Ugh, you sorcerers are all the same, so many races and types, yet you all do the same thing every time.” she groaned, Golden raising an eyebrow. “And that is?” she challenged, Vor smirking. “Graduate, and die.” she replied, Golden shakily standing up, putting a hand on the wall and rubbing at her head slightly, noticing she was bleeding slightly and silently cursing. “You know how easy it is to break a person? If you strike them in the right place, at the right time, they’re gone in the snap of a finger. Entire races have been eradicated just by a singular person in our history, it’s quite amazing, don’t you think?” Vor snickered, Golden seething. “Well you don’t get to break me!” she replied, reminded of the last time she’d fought against powerful villains, how despite only being nine years old, she wasn’t afraid to stand up for herself, nor for what was right. Vor raised an eyebrow again, noticing her resolve was once more growing… “The world’s history might be full of some very bad things…but it’s also full of good! Yen Sid, Ambrose, Master Grey…and the other apprentices and sorcerers who have changed the world!” Golden replied, reminded of just how large her family tree was, it truly felt as if they were all behind her in this moment, calling out to her to keep going, and even people who weren’t directly her family, they all loved her, and that was amazing. “Child, one more blast from me and you’ll be dead. Are you sure you want to risk that? I could alleviate all this pain, sorrow…I could take you to worlds beyond your comprehension, where physics themselves are altered by magic, and time is in reverse, or stops altogether. I could show you a world built on power and glory, and you’d be crowned a princess.” Vor smirked, Golden’s heart stopping at this… “You’d have an army of ten thousand, and anyone who dared wrong you would be defeated…you’d sit on a throne of gold, and be crowned in silver…” she smiled, Golden shaking slightly as she imagined all this…and then it all appeared in front of her eyes, a wondrous castle, filled with beautiful tapestries and paintings, it almost reminded her of the buried castle she’d encountered with Prisma and Vanitas… She discovered she was dressed in finery, in silver stitched with iridescent gemstones, and a crown above her head…she took it off to take a look, and recalled the princess in the book, it looked almost exactly like her tiara. At that moment, Golden remembered why she was even fighting, it wasn’t just for herself, it was for Azurine, and the little princess…she threw the crown to the ground, and stood on it. “I don’t want your world! I don’t want your help, or anything from you! I want you to DISAPPEAR!” she cried, Vor narrowing her eyes and the illusion disappearing, the witch summoning a blast almost ten times as large as the previous one, which she promptly fired.
As it hit Golden, she was slammed into the wall behind her, which cracked and crumbled, sending the girl back into the crystallised landscape of the locket, Golden hissing in pain, but somehow still alive… she took a deep, albeit shaky, breath, and had a strange realisation. If she died here, she’d be dying trying to defeat the most powerful sorceress in history, one Master Grey had apparently once faced, and that was a pretty valiant way to die… she stared up at Vor, and forced herself to get up, hearing the constant chorus of voices all calling out for her to keep going, they seemed even louder now they were back in the locket… Vor prepared another blast as Golden raised her hands, ready to kill this child once and for all, the child who wouldn’t listen, and who had evaded death…though such mysteries were unexplained, without magic, what could she do now? Golden stared at the landscape beyond Vor, the walls were an ugly green, but she remembered what she’d told Starlight, how dark magic made people overconfident and irrational…if the secrets and fundamentals of sorcery were simply knowledge, understanding and application, why did anyone need magic to achieve those? Golden knew about the amulet, she understood its powers, but applying it…that was something she couldn’t do alone, she needed help, and so she silently asked for it, hoping that whatever was out there might just listen. As she did, Vor watched the crystals begin to break down, and the walls shifted to a pink hue, the sorceress staring in fury, wondering what on earth the child was doing. “What…?” Vor whispered, hardly believing what she was seeing, but Golden was simply stood there, her arms held out, and hoping that Aqua was right, that the strength she held inside, even if her heart was weakened and fragile at the moment, would be strong enough to carry her through this, especially with everyone behind her. Vor blasted her as much as she could, Golden once more being flung across the room, now very bruised and beaten, but to both their surprise, alive. It seemed something was intervening, weakening the blasts just before they were fatal, and thus leaving Golden with a little life and energy. Vor smirked, accepting the challenge, and took Golden’s power into her hands, reforming the crystal container to hold it in. “Tell you what, little girl. You demanded a fair fight? Well if you survive this next blast, you can have it.” she snickered, before reaching out, grasping the power of all the wicked nine, and transforming it into the most brutal attack she could manifest, one that was ready to strike the girl from all sides.
In that moment, the walls glowed, and Golden’s trapped magic, with the one last hope they had to protect the girl. As Vor cast the spell, she watched in horror as a shadow began on the walls, holding every single blast in place before it could hit Golden, and deflecting them, firing them one by one back at Vor, who barely dodged and her cloak was singed by one of them. Golden breathed a sigh of relief, seeing the crystal container lying near her, and moved to grab it, though Vor caught her off guard and struck her, so she fell and had to reach out a hand for it. Whatever power had done that, it had truly saved Golden, and Vor wasn’t having it. Furiously, she stormed over as Golden’s fingertips grasped the container, trying to turn it over and reach inside for her trapped magic, Vor glaring and raising a foot, standing on her and pushing her down onto the cold floor…yet despite this, the girl didn’t give up. It felt as if several hands were holding her own, and pulling her toward the magic, and finally, she grabbed it between her fingers, using a shaky hand to plunge the magic back into her chest, where the glitching mess was meant to be. And with that, Vor was thrown back suddenly, as amulet and magic worked in tandem, the shadow on the walls growing stronger and rising up. And for a split second, as Vor looked at the dark form against the pink walls…she felt fear. She knew what this was, and it terrified her. As her eyes stared down at the exhausted, beaten girl, she wasn’t sure how this was even possible, but her face paled, she felt judged and knew she’d endure hell for what she’d done…the locket turning on her. The figure moved a hand, and seemed to bend down toward the child, as if checking she was okay…and then it turned its eyes onto Vor, who tried to stand strong, but found herself unable. “It…it can’t be…” she whispered, the figure stepping forward, though it was a mere shadow, Vor felt herself be picked up, and seemingly ripped away from Golden, until she was all alone, once more trapped in a green, crystallised prison…
Yen Sid watched in amazement as the locket shone, seeming to be pulled in two, and smiled as one half, Vor’s actual locket, disappeared in a blast of dark energy. Azurine stepped forward. “She did it!” she cried, holding onto Ambrose’s arm excitedly as the group stared down at what was left, a silver amulet with a pink gemstone, and inside, there was a little golden light. Yen Sid gently traced his hand over it. “Lunula…is that you?” he whispered, a tiny smile on his face as it registered just what his daughter had accomplished- though he wasn’t ever sure how she did these things, he supposed that was a question for another day…for now, the question was how they would go about getting her out. As time passed inside the amulet, the figure stroked Golden’s head, unable to resist smiling at how delicate, yet strong, she was. “You’ve done well…” it whispered, and then it was gone, Golden groaning slightly as she awoke, finding herself surrounded by several people… a young blonde girl jumped back, wearing a pretty blue dress and apron. “Oh my, you’re awake!” she spoke, Golden sitting up and rubbing her eyes, she felt sore… “ow…wait, who are you?” she asked, feeling as if she recognized the girl, and the little girl smiled. “Alice, it’s nice to meet you!” she giggled, holding out her hand for shaking. Golden felt her head spin… what on earth was going on? “Well, aren’t you going to shake? It is proper etiquette, my sister goes on and on about it!” Alice laughed, Golden then realising just where she knew this girl from, and gasping. “Wait…you’re from…from the stories!” she exclaimed, Alice raising an eyebrow. “Stories? About me? Now that is curious!” she chuckled, gently helping Golden to stand and then shaking her hand, allowing the smaller girl to lean on her slightly. “What is your name? Since you already know mine, I ought to know yours!” Alice spoke, Golden barely understanding what was even going on and just rubbing her eyes. “I’m…Golden…” she replied, sounding rather tired and exhausted. Another girl giggled. “Oh Alice, she seems very sleepy, not unlike someone else we know!” Golden turned her head, the one speaking had black hair, and darker skin, she was wearing turquoise and looked very beautiful. “Oh, well pardon me Jasmine, I’m just trying to be polite!” Alice retorted, Golden squinting…so that was Jasmine, and she saw Aurora, Snow White…then Cinderella, they were all dressed in beautiful gowns, they looked regal and beautiful. Snow White moved over to check on the beaten apprentice, who almost laughed at how surreal this all was. She was half-convinced this was a dream, but if it was, at least she was dreaming of princesses and not frightening witches… Snow White pushed a hair out of her face, and gave her a sweet smile, taking her into her arms as Alice walked over to the rest of the princesses. “If I remember rightly, doesn’t your father know many healing spells? We’ve all heard amazing stories about him from all our friends!” Snow White giggled, Golden blinking tiredly and nodding, she wouldn’t mind falling asleep right about now, perhaps Aurora would be willing to trade places and let her recover for 100 years? “A-Are you trapped here…?” Golden whispered, voice slightly hoarse and croaky, considering she was still very groggy from being woken up. “Oh no, nothing like that, little one…” another voice spoke, bending down to sit beside them as her dress gathered around her like a flower. Golden turned her head, and her heart skipped a beat. Belle. “We were summoned by a call for help, from a little princess…” the gentle girl explained, stroking Golden’s hair as she internally freaked out, being this close to someone she’d only read about and admired from afar was insane, especially considering the circumstances. Belle smiled slightly, moving a hand to cup Golden’s cheek, wiping away a small streak of blood, and not looking bothered by her appearance in the slightest, she could see that underneath the wounds, the kid was actually quite pretty, and moreso in nature. “B-but…I’m not a princess…?” Golden protested, Belle shrugging. “Maybe not…but what I do know is that someone is missing an amulet. When you recover, I think you should return it to her…but for now, rest, little one.” Belle whispered, Golden’s eyes fluttering shut as she felt the comfort of being surrounded by so many kind people, and the princesses faded away, as did the amulet…and when she opened her eyes again, she was on the study floor, a mess, but alive.
Though it was blurry at first, Golden found herself staring up, seeing the faces of those she loved surrounding her, and feeling someone touch her cheek. For a minute, she almost thought it was Belle again, but no, that hand belonged to someone else, who then touched her forehead, making sure she was okay. She lifted her own hand to touch his, holding it in place and giving a soft smile. “Dad…” she croaked, Yen Sid smiling and nodding, finally coming into view properly. Along with him, there were her siblings, all of them, Uncle Ambrose…the Wayfinders, Azurine… she smiled up at them all, tiredly. “Oh Golden, I know I’ve said it before, but…I am so proud of you.” Yen Sid whispered, reaching down to pick her up as she snuggled against his chest, feeling the warmth of his heart as hers was so close to his. Her eyes welled with tears, she was so incredibly glad to have done this, and though she wasn’t sure how it had happened, Vor was gone now, hopefully for good this time. Golden couldn’t avoid smiling as she felt the beating of his heart. It really did sound like a piano or glockenspiel to her, and they were beating together, creating music… She looked up at him, and he smiled, she could see it in his eyes, just how proud of her he was. “You fought so bravely my dear…” he whispered, Golden laughing slightly, and then the tears began, she buried her face into his shoulder as she felt her magic once more rushing through her veins, she really owed the princesses, and the other person they mentioned…and even Azurine, for telling her about the amulet and what it could do. Starlight smiled at the two in their embrace and sighed in relief, moving to cuddle Golden by pressing herself between Yen Sid’s shoulder and her best friend, throwing her tiny arms around her neck. “Wait, so Vor’s really, actually gone?!” Julius cried, awed and Yen Sid looked down at him. “We saw her locket disappear, so it’s a possibility…though in any case…she’s likely weakened, and won’t be back for a long time.” he smiled, Golden lifting her head to look at everyone, though she was still in tears, she was smiling through them. “In…in there I heard…all of you. You all helped me a-and…even if I ended up a mangled, bloody m-mess…I wasn’t gonna give up…” she spoke, Starlight looking up at her and holding her tighter, not wanting to let go. Scout raised an eyebrow. “That much I can tell, you look pretty beat and that’s from me, who’s seen you post battle!” she shrugged, Golden nodding as Yen Sid smiled, running a hand through her vibrant hair. “I believe I can fix that. Anything hurt? My magic can heal most of the damage.” he smiled, Golden’s eyes darting to the side. “Um…pretty much all over…?” she giggled, Yen Sid unable to hide a chuckle. “Very well then, let’s heal all over.” he smiled, whispering an incantation. The spell started at her head, and made its way down her chest, it almost felt like a warm blanket, like the time his blue magic had protected her against the villains…Mickey took her free hand, and watched the cuts heal over, as if they’d never been damaged at all. He smiled, meeting her gaze, and they both silently admired Yen Sid’s healing magic…it was truly wondrous, and could fix anything that was damaged. Golden breathed a sigh of relief as she felt herself being held, Starlight getting comfortable and almost looking like she wanted to take a nap then and there, and Aero giggled as Star zipped over, squeaking joyfully and tapping her nose, before pointing excitedly to something that was now around Golden’s neck. Yen Sid looked closely, and gave a soft smile. “Oh lunula…” he whispered, gently touching the amulet that now rested there. “Huh…I guess I have a thing for collecting necklaces…!” she giggled, though knowing soon enough this amulet would be returned to its proper owner, whoever she was. “Oh Goldie, now that all this is done, we should be able to do finals and graduate!” Mickey cheered, Golden’s face once more becoming surprised, and smiling. “Wha…hey, you’re right!” she giggled, Oswald flying up to her with his ears and poking her cheek. “I’m gonna beat ya…!” he teased, Golden smirking. “Oh it is on!!” she laughed, Yen Sid shaking his head. “Now before all that, you need to heal, young lady!” he smiled, playfully ruffling her hair, “and that means going straight to bed!” Golden playfully pouted. “Do I have to?” she whined, putting on the cutest face she could muster and Sonatina laughing at her. “Do as your father says, young miss!” she giggled, Golden laughing and nodding. “I know! Only joking, I’m pretty sleepy anyway…how long should I rest?” she asked, Yen Sid shrugging slightly. “Well we will all be checking up on you everyday until you’re fully healed. By the looks of it, you will be able to heal at home instead of at a clinic or even the Magical Medical Institute, so even if it takes many days, or weeks depending on the speed you heal, we’ll make each day pleasant and fun for you. And I can even call on some good friends to visit too.” he smiled, Golden nodding and giving a wide grin. “Thanks dad, that sounds fantastic!” she replied, Yen Sid just tilting his head and smiling. Ambrose approached them, gently tucking a hair behind her ear. “If you want, I can invite your cousins over, but they can be a bit of a handful sometimes, as you very well know!” he laughed, Golden smiling at the thought of playing with Coral and Caspian again, even if she probably wouldn’t be able to move as well as usual, it still sounded nice. “It’s all our pleasure, Golden. Now…can you walk?” Yen Sid asked, and she nodded, but then looked a little uncertain. “I think but…just this one time, um…could you carry me?” she asked, Yen Sid feeling touched and nodding, holding her a little tighter as he did. Usually she’d insist on being taken seriously despite being young, and preferring to walk herself rather than being carried…but he really didn’t mind prolonging his tenderness toward her, she clearly felt comfortable and safe, and he was happy to oblige. As he walked slowly, allowing everyone to appreciate the moment a bit longer, Mickey walked over to Aero and held his arms up, Aero grinning and picking him up, and Julius and Oswald silently bickered about asking Sonatina and Percy, who promptly scooped them up too. Scout was even picked up by Ambrose, which made her turn crimson, but in all honesty, she didn’t mind. As they took each apprentice to their rooms, Yen Sid put Golden down on her bed. “Ow!” she exclaimed, Yen Sid looking worried for a second. “Oh I’m sorry, Golden! Did I put you on a sore spot?” he asked, but Golden was snickering, Yen Sid realising just what she was doing and tickling her. “Oh you cheeky little thing!! You may have my sympathy, you little invalid, but I will not let you get away with murder!” he laughed, the sounds of Golden’s giggles filling the room as Starlight joined in on it, and soon she was breathless, but smiling widely. “Alright, now lie down sweetheart, it’s bedtime for you.” he smiled, Golden grabbing her pyjamas and then going over to her shelves, holding a book out for him to read. He almost laughed at how childlike she was being, but opening it up as she quickly went into the bathroom to get ready, and smiling down at the illustrations, there was a beautiful ballerina on the first page. Just before he read, Starlight tapped Golden’s shoulder. “Do you mind if I stay tonight? I don’t wanna fly, hehe!” she giggled, clambering into the tiny hammock above Golden’s bed and pulling her blanket over her as Golden gave an enthusiastic nod. “Of course not! Thanks Starlight!” She smiled, gently reaching up to stroke the glowworm and make the hammock rock back and forth, it was modelled after Scout’s own that she’d put above her bed, and looked very comfortable. As Yen Sid finished the book, Golden snuggled up, and he gave her a kiss on the head, the other adults appearing by the door. “Sleep well, both of you.” Yen Sid whispered, noticing Starlight was already fast asleep, and smiling down at his tired daughter. “Sleep well, sweet dreams.” Mum smiled, Percy nodding. “Goodnight, lumen! And Starlight too!” he cheered, Ambrose nodding. “We’ll see you tomorrow, alright dear?” he grinned, Golden nodding and waving as they closed the door, leaving her in darkness once more only illuminated by the moon. She peeked out at it, and smiled. “Night night, moon.”
Once Golden got into bed, sleep came over her pretty quickly, after everything, she was visibly exhausted and was ready to rest and recharge. It was a dreamy, peaceful night and there were no nightmares haunting Golden as she slept, even after witnessing them over and over inside the locket, but she was past all of that now, she bravely fought away all her fears, and was gratefully to her family and friends for sticking by her through it all. Golden was suddenly roused from her sleep as a small tapping sound was heard, lifting her head up, she looked around to see where it was coming from, had she dreamt or imagined it? “Mmm, Starlight? Was that you…?” she asked sleepily, but the little glowworm was sound asleep, her upper body loosely hanging upside down in the hammock, a small bubble on her face as she snored. “Nooo…” Starlight whispered in her sleep, a common thing she’d do, though she’d deny it if anyone said she did in front of her. “Golden, you can’t put corn muffin mix in the jelly…” Starlight let out a deep yet high snore and twirled over in her hammock, Golden shaking her head a little as she smiled, preparing to lie back down to sleep, but then the tapping sounded again, and Golden got up to investigate, it was by the window… “W-who could be there?” she softly asked herself. Very slowly, she took hold of the curtains and opened them, and in the light of the watchful moon, she saw the face of a young girl, Golden blinked and rubbed at her eyes, trying to make out who this girl was, she wasn’t someone Golden knew, yet her eyes and features spoke of a gentle and warm nature, and a smile that would be a welcoming hello. Unclicking the window, Golden noticed the girl was sitting on a horse, a pegasus! That would explain why she was at one of the highest windows in the house. “Hi there!” said the girl cheerfully, giving Golden a little wave. “You’re Golden, right? Golden Symphonus?” Golden, now fully awake, was astounded, this girl knew who she was! “Y-yes…! But, how’d you know that? Who are you?” Golden asked her, the girl giggled sweetly, her pegasus raising his head up a little to the window, allowing Golden to pet him on the muzzle. “I’m Sofia, Princess Sofia of Enchancia! And I know who you are, some of my friends told me, you might know them as princesses?” Sofia winked, Golden’s jaw almost dropped onto the window sill, Sofia was a princess! And her friends were also princesses…Golden let out a giddy squeal of excitement, holding out her hands for Sofia to take, which she gladly did. “Those princesses! I’ve met them all, just earlier in fact!” Golden said cheerfully, now shaking hands with Sofia. “And…they mentioned someone else, someone very important…that is you, right?” Sofia nodded in response. “That’s right! All the princesses are good friends of mine too, they all came to my aid when the amulet called them. And as it turns out, it did the same for you. You were very lucky back there, Golden.” Sofia’s words resonated within Golden, she did feel very lucky, and positively beamed as she gently placed her hand over the amulet over her neck, watching it glisten and twinkle in the moonlight. “You and the princesses, you all saved me.” said Golden in a soft voice. “I don’t know how to thank you all.” Golden felt her chest warming, her heart now back to its fully golden glow, she always admired the princesses she learned about in the stories, she never imagined those she looked up to would one day save her life. “You don’t need to thank me.” smiled Sofia kindly. “I’m a protector, it’s my duty to look out for others. And even if I wasn’t, I’d still wanna help! And you know something? The amulet around your neck? It chose you!” Golden’s eyes widened as she stared down at the necklace. “It chose me?” she said. “That’s right! And the amulet is very special, you know. It chooses those who have a pure heart, and yours is definitely one of the purest and most special hearts!” Sofia praised, making Golden turn a little pink, she wanted to think that Sofia was just making her feel good, but knowing the amulet played a part in her battle with Vor, she couldn’t help but believe it, it made her feel proud. “My heart is good and pure, isn’t it?” blushed Golden, holding the amulet out in her palm. “Even though…it’s a little broken, hehe…my heart has been through a lot of battles, as you can imagine…” Sofia shook her head, not even the slightest bit put off by the idea. “It doesn’t matter.” she told her gently. “To an amulet, it makes no difference if a heart is whole, or broken. All it needs is a heart of pure intent, and that tells the amulet all it needs to know about the person who’s wearing it, inside and out, and you are pure gold.” Golden felt her heart beating quickly, her pink blush remaining on her face. With a grin, she slipped the amulet from around her head, and placed it around Sofia’s head, returning it to her rightfully. “This does belong to you, doesn’t it, Sofia?” she giggled. “After all, you do look pretty with it on!” Sofia smiled as she was given back the amulet. “Thanks Golden! I know it’s early, but would it be alright to visit you again? I know you’re resting up now, and you’ve got big plans ahead, so would you be up for that?” Golden was surprised, and realised she would need to get more rest for finals, and Yen Sid would not be happy to hear she was awake! Giggling, Golden nodded to Sofia’s answer, already feeling like she had made a new friend. “I’d love that, princess.” she said. “I can’t wait for you to visit again!” Golden held out her hand, and her and Sofia shook again, fully establishing their new found friendship. “When I do, I’ll bring the rest of the protectors over to meet you, and of course I’ll bring the princesses too! We’d all be glad to come over and spend a day with you!” said Sofia, preparing her pegasus to ride off again, the moon providing her a light for the return home. “I’ll ask Mr Cedric to come along too, he always speaks so highly of Mr Merlin and Mr Yen Sid! I think he’d burst with joy if he was here! Off we go Minimus!” Her pegasus, Minimus gave a cheerful whinny, and galloped off in the air with his wings flapping majestically, even as a small pegasus, he still looked as graceful as he flew, silhouetted by the great moon. “Bye Golden!” Sofia waved back to the window. “I’m so glad I made a new friend!” Golden waved back, watching the young princess depart into the light, she was starting to feel a bit tired again, which was good timing for her to head back to bed. “So am I, Sofia. So am I.” she smiled widely, waving in return. There was a soft yawn behind her, Starlight hopped up onto the window sill, feeling the breeze from the gentle night’s air. She pushed up her little cap, seeing Golden wearing a look of wonder and fulfilment, a soft blush on her cheeks. “Goldie…who were you talking to?” the small glowworm asked in a sleepy voice, glancing at the clock briefly, reading 2:00 AM…Golden scooped her friend into her arms, closing the window and the curtains before carrying her back to bed, letting her curl up with her for the rest of the night. “It was…a friend.” Golden replied quietly, her answer was a simple one, speaking only the truth, and that was all the two needed to hear as they fell into a peaceful, undisrupted sleep.
The rays of the sun streamed into the Observatory like a shining river, illuminating the once dark yet beautiful room like a system of stars and planets with a sun in the middle like a warm fire. Perched upside down like a bat on the balcony, Percy opened one eye to greet the morning, he watched from his upside down state the realms as they passed by him. Despite having just woken up, Percy felt he could use a bit more sleep, the past few days had been incredibly draining and exhausting, coupled with stress and grief that didn’t do anyone any favours. Another reason he likely felt so tired was due to him waking at the crack of dawn, where the only people even up at this time would be some of the elder sorcerers at the council. He rubbed at his eyes and gave a big yawn, searching inside one of his blankets for his glasses, which he sometimes misplaced if he didn’t put them away at night. “Ohh, might as well start the day.” he said softly, finally finding his glasses and breathing on them a little to wipe down. “As they say, early to rise and early to bed makes a man healthy, but socially dead.” He jumped down from the balcony, floating gracefully much like Delphis would when he does one of his tricks. Transforming into his light, Percy made a beeline for the hallway, wondering who to wake up first, he stopped at one of the many doors and grinned, this one couldn’t be more perfect. “Scoooout! Wake up, it’s morning and I’m boooooored!” He knocked several times at the wooden door, his light tinkling at each impact, there was a shuffling of bedsheets and the gentle sound of slippers on the other side. “Alright alright, Percy! I’m coming.” came the groggy reply of Scout, who quickly changed into her clothes and brushed her teeth. She wore a slightly more casual outfit on this day with an outspoken and daring feel, a white blouse and a blue tie, along with a pair of ripped jean shorts, tied together with her red sorcerer robes. She greeted Percy at the door, who raced her down the stairs into the sitting room, she won, which meant Percy would be on dishes duty while the broomies had a well earned break. The two of them spent the early morning together, simply chilling in the warm sun as it basked them from the windows. There were a few things that were worth discussion, primarily about what Yen Sid had in store for the younger ones on this day. “Today’s the day, wow…where has the time gone?” said Scout, propping her feet up on a foot stool as she lounged on the sofa, Percy took a seat beside her, snickering at the answer he had in mind. “Well, wherever time has gone, they ought to have sent a postcard!” he replied, earning a smirk and a titter from Scout, rolling her eyes at his answer. “Haha~ I hope it’s from Kookaburra Cove!” she said, quietly reminiscing about that little holiday they all took together, thinking about it, Scout felt she could take on a few sirens over Vor any day! Looking at the calendar, Scout gently nudged Percy in the ribs, making him suddenly snap out of his thoughts about something. “You know how pops talked about guests coming over?” she asked him. “I wonder who it’s gonna be…?” Percy looked away as he went back into thinking mode, rubbing the back of his head and ruffling up his sideburns. “Hmmm, can’t say I know.” he hummed. “Perhaps he’s keeping it as a surprise! I wonder if he might have contacted…hmm…” The light man once again looked deep in thought, which meant he’d overthink or analyse anything his mind thought when he did, it made others wonder just what he might be thinking about. “Percy?” Scout said, tapping him on the shoulder, who only responded with a low chuckle before he could deliver his answer, but he wasn’t able to as Yen Sid had appeared, looking well rested and recovered from the past few days. He wore his finest robe and his magic hat adorned his head, and his hair and beard were looking well brushed and sleek. “Good morning you two, I’m not interrupting anything, am I?” he asked, his smile was warm and gentle, which while unusual, wasn’t a bad sight at all. Percy cleared his throat, straightening himself back up again as he greeted his master. “No no, nothing really!” he chortled in a fluttery voice. “I was just thinking…about a friend. You might know the one…” Yen Sid chuckled when he saw Percy’s blush, leading his prodigy into the kitchen, Scout following behind them with a cheeky grin on her face. “Yes, I know who.” smiled Yen Sid. “I sent a message to Astra the other day, asking if they’d like to join, but I’m afraid the poor thing has been so swamped with work, not to mention that after seeing some patients, Astra themself wound up with a dose of illness.” This surprised Percy, and then worried him about his friend, Yen Sid gave him a gentle pat on the back to ease his nerves. “Fear not, Astra is alright, just a small cold and all they need is to stay in bed. They told me in the letter they are looking forward to seeing you again.” This did make Percy feel a little better, and it sounded much tamer than the last time Astra was bed-ridden, an event they both never would forget for many reasons. “Sounds like another someone who’s been lying in bed a lot!” snickered Scout, taking her seat at the breakfast table. “Although I can’t say I blame her.” Percy smirked at that comment, knowing Scout, it seemed like Golden and Astra weren’t the only ones. “Indeed, you can’t blame her because you do the same Scout! I swear, when you’re not writing music or practising spells, you spend all your time in bed!” Scout rose from her chair, feeling ready to engage in family banter like it was a contest. “I do NOT!” she grinned in protest. “At least I don’t need seven blankets because I get cold, save some for the broomies!” Percy responded with the most British sounding gasp as he pretended to be offended, all three of them sharing a good laugh when Mickey and Julius appeared at the kitchen door, the two of them were fully dressed and dragging a very sleepy, pyjama clad Oswald behind them. “Goooood morning, you three!” Mickey greeted them cheerfully, giving them a wave along with his signature laugh. Oswald slowly hauled himself up on his feet, looking like he could use another two hours of sleep. “Coffeeeeeee!” he whined loudly, Julius rolled his eyes as he pushed his younger brother over to his chair, making him slump onto it. “You know, you wouldn’t need coffee if you just went to bed on time like we do, Ossie!” he told him with a firm yet playful tone, Oswald could only respond with some moody, unintelligible mumblings and hit the table with his fist, as if demanding his drink appear before him right at this moment. Yen Sid chuckled, watching the boys get up to their silly antics, much like Scout and Percy. He affectionately ruffled Mickey and Julius on their heads, avoiding Oswald in case the grumpy rabbit turned around and bit him. Going upstairs, Yen Sid headed for Golden’s room to check on her, he walked through the hallway and saw the Wayfinders exiting their guest room, all looking a bit tired still. ‘Nothing a good breakfast couldn’t fix though, they’d be prepped up soon enough.’ Yen Sid thought, before he became slightly startled by Star wheezing past him at top speed, taking a few spins around his head and nearly taking his hat off, causing Yen Sid to clamp his hands onto the brim and keep it there. He then spotted Aero, who was flying down the hall after Star, trying to catch it before it flew out of sight. Yen Sid couldn’t help but smile, hiding it slightly under his beard- everyone looked so happy and carefree today, minus Oswald before his coffee. Reaching Golden’s door, he opened it to see Golden was still curled up under her covers, her little tiger plush tucked under her arm, and she looked happy, peaceful even, but the night before meant she had skipped a few hours sleep, so for now he let her rest, allowing the now awake and zoomy Starlight to join him and hop onto his shoulder. “Care to join us for breakfast, little one?” he asked, softly tickling Starlight’s cheek with his finger, making her squeak like a dolphin. “Yes please! I’m starving!” Starlight giggled, nestling into Yen Sid’s hair, keeping away from his beard in case the rumours of a pocket dimension in there were true. Entering the kitchen, everyone was seated, now just chattering and laughing at whatever subject they were talking about, Oswald looked a little more cheerful now after his fourth cup. “Looks like everyone’s here for breakfast. Now, how about everyone’s favourite on this fine morning?” With a clap of his hands, the table was loaded with various dishes for everyone to tuck into, it was like a feast! Sonatina had also joined everyone in having breakfast, taking a few bagels loaded with cream cheese and a cup of sweet tea. “What a beautiful day, and perfect for the occasion!” she smiled tenderly as she took a glance out the window. “I agree, Sonatina, it certainly is. Bright and beautiful. If you boys want to, you’re free to play outside in the sunshine.” Yen Sid suggested, winking at the brothers behind his mug of cocoa. Julius and Oswald smirked at one another, feeling prepared for a game of magic tag where the loser gets a noogie. Mickey was excited for some outdoor games; he felt up for a game with Star and Starlight, perhaps catching them like butterflies. “Marvelous idea, master, marvelous!” cheered Percy, picking up his empty plate and taking them to the sink. “I daresay today will be plenty fun for us all!” Yen Sid nodded, wholeheartedly agreeing with Percy, he glanced over at all his apprentices and guests, all of them looking more than ready to start the day, and soon would be joined by Golden once she was up. “Oh right!” Scout cried, leaping out of her seat as she was hit with a realisation she had been planning to tell her dad and teacher, looking over him with an excited grin. “I totally forgot to tell you, after alllll the chaos that was going on during these crazy few days! Haha, but I still need to tell you what path I’ve chosen for after my graduation! That makes sense, right?” Yen Sid thought for a moment, stroking his beard at her enquiry. He smiled warmly, touching her shoulder with fatherly affection. “I look forward to hearing the path you’ve chosen, Scout.” he stated. “But first, you should focus on your finals, my dear. We can hear all about your path in life after the ceremony, and all of the council will be there to hear it too.” he gave her another wink, hearing the whole council would be there witnessing her announce her life path in sorcery, made her feel a tad nervous, she hadn’t had to perform in front of a crowd before, but given her passion for songwriting and music, she had a feeling it would be easy peasy! “Ohhh boy! Another ceremony!” Percy chimed, suddenly zooming around in his light ball and almost knocking the broomies over as they went about their way in the kitchen. “I say, it’s been sometime since the last graduation ceremony…wasn’t it Aero’s?” The aforementioned sorcerer perked up at his question, her cheeks blushing as brightly as a cherry, Yen Sid had to chuckle at her shy reaction. “Yes it was,” he said. “and I was so proud of you that day, Aero. You weren’t sure at first about being able to go further with your education, but you didn’t let anything stop you, and you passed with flying colours. There’s a reason I never give up on any of my apprentices, they all have the potential to become sorcerers, once they realise it.” Aero almost ducked under the table, her face was fully flushed now and she hid it behind her hair. Star giggled loudly and began bapping Aero on the head, trying to get her to come out. “For now though,” Yen Sid continued. “You may all go and play, read a book or make something, just have fun. And I’ll go check on the littlun and see if she’s up yet, and maybe she’d like a game of tag after she has a bite to eat. If not, there will be plenty of activities before the big event.”
Sometime after breakfast, Oswald and Julius were using up all their newfound energy to tag each other, giggling as they chased one another and tackled each other onto the grass. Mickey laughed at them, joining them in a little chase game until Julius had finally lost and surrendered to Oswald’s noogie attacks. Mickey was then chased by Star and Starlight, avoiding their sprinkles of stardust by ways of teleporting, until they teamed up to sneak up on him when he thought he evaded them, and he gracefully lost, until the two of them jumped on his head and started tickling his ears, making him fall into the flowers in a fit of high pitched giggling. Scout and Aero were sitting on the garden bench, watching the boys all play. They were chatting about things like the ceremony, with Aero giving Scout an idea of what’ll happen as she herself had gotten one, talking her through the process of it all. Yen Sid was watching the whole scene from his window, he was glad that for this day, everything truly was fine. He looked to his right, spying Aqua at the bottom of the stairs, she was looking intently at the top with a soft smile on her face. “My thoughts exactly, Aqua.” Yen Sid beamed, taking a place at the master’s side. “I reckon she’s all caught up on her sleep now. Though, did I tell you three that Golden had skipped three nights of sleep?” Aqua began to laugh, and Terra and Ventus were honestly bewildered as to how someone could stay up for that long, without getting sleep deprived so much they start seeing illusions or getting sick. “Honestly, that sounds like Terra!” Aqua chuckled heartily, “Even we keyblade wielders have missed sleep, but not for that long!” Terra shrugged his shoulders, shaking his head as if it wasn’t a big deal. “Finals ARE important, Aqua!” he retorted lightly. “You would know, miss master.” Sonatina overheard the conversation, joining Yen Sid and the Wayfinders at the stairs, she thought sweetly about how enigmatic Golden was, no matter what she did, even finals for the apprenticeship. “Oh that child…” she murmured, before shooting a look at Yen Sid. “Honestly, Yen Sid…didn’t you ever think to give her a bedtime?” Yen Sid only rolled his eyes, he could imagine Golden refusing to sleep even when she was cranky, clearly having no intention of listening to him and mouthing off as he’d demand she’d go to sleep, much like how she’d act when she was a lot younger. “I can safely say I did, Sonatina.” Yen Sid replied. “But…she was always the rebellious one. I suppose you can’t blame an old sorcerer for trying.” Sonatina gave a laugh, understanding that raising a child could come with its own difficulties, though she knew Scout was never as rebellious or disobedient, at least until she was four…breaking the silence a little, Ventus glanced up at the clock, and lightly tapped Yen Sid on the arm. “Hey, sir? Who were these guests you spoke of yesterday?” he asked. Yen Sid also took a look at the clock, seeing that the time had reached 12:00 PM, which was perfect, everyone should be arriving soon. “Just some specific friends,” he answered. “I know you are all excited to meet them, and given who they are, I’m hoping Golden and the boys will be well behaved…Ambrose shall be coming too, he wouldn’t want to miss out on this. In due time, my young friends, in due time.”
Golden opened her sleepy eyes, feeling her sleep lift from her, finally feeling as wide awake as she had ever felt in a long time. She snuggled up in her blankets, seeing the sun peeking out from behind the curtains. As she yawned, Golden noticed that Starlight was gone, and that there was a ruckus of laughter outside, indicating that she must be the last one awake. She turned head over to the clock, and noticing the time, Golden jumped out of bed, knocking her blanket off and letting it fall to the floor. “SHOOT! Finals are today, I have to study!!” Upon touching the floor, Golden let out a small hiss, and dropped her tiger plush to the ground. She gasped and picked him back up, setting him down gently on her bedside table. “Sorry Mr Tiger…” she apologised, brushing him down with her hand. Clearly she wasn’t completely healed, this would take much longer than she might have hoped and silently scolded herself for getting up so fast. She grabbed her clothes and went into the washroom to get ready, setting herself up in less than ten minutes. As much as she wanted to study right away, she wondered if she might have time to spare as she spied Yen Sid heading toward his office. She wanted to follow him, and just ask one thing before she could settle down to properly study. She took a deep breath, she made her ache a little, Vor certainly gave her quite a beating in the amulet… The house was very quiet, was no one except her and Yen Sid home? But then she spotted the sight of the garden by the window, there they all were, Scout, Aero, Mickey, Aqua, Percy, it was a shame to be inside when it was such a beautiful day, but maybe she could butter Yen Sid up so he’d let her even on this important day. She hobbled a little on her leg toward the office, opening the door to see Yen Sid sitting at his desk, a book in his lap. “Hey dad!” she waved, walking inside and running up to him, she almost fell over as her leg suddenly felt a sharp pain. Yen Sid held out his hand for her to take and helped her onto his knee, putting his book on his desk to make room for her. “Good afternoon, Golden.” he welcomed, looking her down to make sure she wasn’t hurt. “Easy now…how are you feeling?” Golden gave him a little smile, leaning her head onto his chest with great affection, she softly nursed her leg by rubbing it as it still pained her. “I’m alright, dad. Just feeling a little achy and sore in some places.” she acknowledged, Yen Sid sighed in relief, his smile remaining as he held her a little closer. “Good to know.” he crooned gently. “You are likely to feel a bit sore for some time, but the good thing is that you aren’t in any great pain. I could only heal what I could, and I was glad to see there was no lasting damage. Hehe, and the best part? No more Vor to badger and annoy you.” Golden chuckled at that, she was glad to be rid of, as Aero had called her, an oversized Halloween costume! “And that's the way it’s gonna stay!” she exalted proudly, holding out her fist for Yen Sid to bump with her, which he gladly did. Golden then lowered her eyes, rubbing at her arm as a thought had clouded her mind. “Dad…?” she murmured, as gentle as a snowflake. “I was just wondering, will I still be able to do studies well, even though I’ve just gotten my magic back, and will have to re-learn everything again?” Yen Sid didn’t answer right away, instead contemplating on what to say to such a question, he ran his fingers down his beard, with Golden staring hard into his face to try and guess what he might be thinking. The sorcerer then reached over to the drawers on his desk, opening one to reveal several books, he handed each of them to Golden, they were inscribed with her name in pretty gold lettering. “Even if it takes time to re-learn magic,” he began. “that doesn’t mean you have forgotten everything. Some things might come back to you quicker than others, but no matter when or how, I know you can do it at your own pace, Lunula. Study only as hard as you can, there's no pressure on you to succeed, and I only want you to do your best, alright?” Golden looked down at the books, they were like little journals for her to write in for her finals. She hugged them tightly, close to her heart, satisfied with the answer her dad had given her. “Thanks dad! I won’t let you down. Pinky promise!” She pointed her little pinky finger out, Yen Sid carefully wrapped his around hers, the size difference between them was astounding, and only fueled Yen Sid’s protective instincts toward her. “I know you can’t run right now, but I hear an interesting game of tag outside.” Yen Sid remarked mischievously. “How about later on, after everyone is finished, we’ll all play a little game of hide and seek? I’ll help you hide so Oswald won’t find you too quickly.” Golden’s face beamed into a bright, wide smile. “Oh, that sounds fun!” she agreed. “Okay, I’ll go study for now, it’s the middle of the day, hehehe! And then it’s playtime!” Yen Sid nodded, helping her down off his lap as she had her arms full with books; he went with her to the door and opened it for her. “Good luck, sweetheart,” he said warmly. “I’m going to stay in here for a moment longer, just need to go over a few things in that old tome, so get comfy outside, and get yourself a snack while you’re at it.” Golden left Yen Sid to his reading, taking it nice and slow as she made her way to the outside. The sun was warm on her face as she reached the lush garden, feeling it had been forever since she felt the fresh air. She took a seat on one of the sunbeds that had been conjured up by Percy, opening up one of her journals and a spell book. The parasol on the sunbed provided her with a good amount of shade while she watched Julius, Oswald and Mickey all playing a game of magic catch, Scout and Aero were cheering them all on, now joined by Sonatina and Percy, while the Wayfinders were surprisingly getting quite talkative with Star and Starlight, amused by their humorous antics as a duo. Opening her spell book and journal, Golden set to her studies. “Alright, let's see here…” she muttered, diving head first into the pages and looking over each of the questions. The questions were making her think hard back to her training, even to her earliest days and the things she had done, simple things in the first steps of sorcery, like music magic that she and Scout would make together, pretty normal stuff that a first time apprentice would work with. And then she recalled the times she saved her family from the scary and dire situations, where the battle with Vor was a risky take in order to protect them, yet she never had any intention of backing out. This wasn’t exactly relevant to the homework, but it got the gears of her mind turning and got her mentally active. She wrote down her answers, flipping the pages, thinking deeply about the questions, the outside warmth making her feel relaxed and a little drowsy, within time, Golden closed her eyes and dozed off the gentle combination of the warm sun and the cool shade, eventually letting go of her quill and letting it drop to her side. She didn’t know how much time had passed when she felt a light tapping on her shoulder, rousing her from her little nap. “Hey there, sleeping beauty.” a voice giggled, Golden opened her eyes and immediately shut the again from the bright sun which was now low in the sky. Once she adjusted her vision, Golden noticed a shadow above her sunbed, which belonged none other than to Aero. “You still feeling tired?” the older girl asked. Golden shook her head, picking her quill and spellbook back up. “Nah, I think the sun made me feel really sleepy.” she answered. “It’s been a while since I really felt it on my skin, y’know?” Aero had to agree, the sun beating down with a cosy ambience, anyone could drift off into a slumber if they stayed out in it. “I don’t blame you there! Though, and I apologise if I snooped, but it looks your homework has worked you to the bone.” She pointed down at the open pages of Golden’s book, which was filled with lots of writing and ticked boxes. The young apprentice was almost taken aback by how much she had filled in within just an hour or so. “Haha! It’s not a lot once you get into it, and I just wanted to get some of it done today!” Golden giggled, closing up her book and putting her quill in her pocket, slowly getting up from the sunbed so she wouldn’t trigger a sore spot. “That’s good to hear, it’s honestly best to get it all over and done, isn’t it?” Aero smiled, her eyes glancing back at the workshop with a small smirk. “Buuuut…you might wanna come inside! The guests are starting to arrive and you and the others ought to get ready.” Golden almost dropped her homework in surprise, she had completely forgotten! “Oh the guests!” she gasped. “A-are they all here? Now?!” Aero shook her head, unable to hold back a snort as she put her arm around her younger friend, leading her back inside so they could walk side by side together. “Not all of them. Ambrose did arrive a few minutes ago, he’s just talking with dad. You should say hi, but there’s no rush if you wanna go get prepared.” she said with reassurance. The two stepped inside, spotting Yen Sid by the table, looking rather amused at what Ambrose was telling him, the other sorcerer appeared a bit flustered, and chuckled awkwardly, Starlight happily perched on his shoulder as she listened to their conversation. “Well, Ambrose…the council were bound to know.” Yen Sid said, his cheeks turning a light red that stood out on his pale skin. “But…it was for a good reason! Ahh well, I’ll face the music as they say. I’m sure they aren’t as scary as master Grey when he was in one of his moods.” Ambrose was chuckling so much he could barely have a sip of his coffee. “Haha! I understand that sentiment!” he grinned widely. “But this is serious Yen Sid! We are expecting new candidates in the next governor elections, I hope they are as lenient on time travel as the council, to put it lightly! I don’t want to see you in trouble, brother.” Ambrose gently patted Yen Sid on the knuckles, making the younger nod softly as he knew where Ambrose was coming from with his concerns. His attention drifted toward the two girls as he saw them come back in, winking at them to bring Ambrose awareness to their presence as he turned his head around. “Oh, hi Golden!” he chirped, Golden waving her hand in return. “You’re looking so well, my girl! A couple more restful nights and you’ll be right as rain!” Ambrose beamed, looking positively giddy at the sight of his niece, Starlight almost fell off of his shoulder, so she quickly went to sit on Golden’s instead, a giggle escaping her. “Oh, but don’t let me keep you waiting, you’ve got to be ready for the ceremony soon. And then I’ll give you my graduation present!” Ambrose went on, not so subtly taking a glimpse at a huge green box with a ribbon on it behind the kitchen counter. Golden’s eyes went wide with wonder, looking like a microscopic galaxy. She went to the stairs, leaving the adults to wait for her and the arrival of the upcoming guests. Golden felt her excitement bubble more than before, not only was she graduating, but she was getting a present! And her birthday was not for another week! “Psst, Golden!” said a hushed voice, the girl stopping her movements to search for it. Starlight tapped her on the head, pointing to a small table with a vase of flowers on it. “Mickey? What is it? And what are you doing there?” Golden asked curiously, peering around the cabinet to see Mickey crouched behind it. “Hehe! I’m hidin’ from Oswald, but I think he’s gonna find me soon, and the flowers are making my nose twitch!” Mickey chuckled as he rubbed his finger under his little snout. “But I should probably be downstairs warming the tea for the guests, hehe…! How are you doing?” Golden giggled a little, looking around the hallway for any sign of her lucky rabbit sibling, he wasn’t in sight, so Golden took Mickey’s hand and coaxed him out of his hiding place. “I’m fine, feeling much better in fact!” she replied jovially. “Why don’t you go make the tea? If I see Oswald, I’ll point him in the other direction, hehe!” Mickey smiled at her suggestion, bumping both his fists with hers and wiggling their fingers in a special kind of handshake, whenever they teamed up against the other two brothers or even Yen Sid during their games. “Shucks, Goldie! I appreciate that!” he smiled thankfully, making his way downstairs to prepare several cups of warm tea and drinks. “Thanks a bunch! See ya real soon!”
A few minutes later, Golden stood in front the mirror, which she was more than glad wasn’t showing a frightening apparition, instead reflecting her true self, dressed in a long, studious robe with a training hat atop her head. Starlight was giving her hair a little comb through at the back, straightening out any knots she might have missed during her rush to get out of bed. Once she was done, Starlight gently landed on Golden’s shoulder once more, cuddling up against the side of her favourite person’s head and seeing her all dolled up and ready for the big event she had been waiting for. “Despite everything, it’s still you, Golden.” she sung, and Golden looked deeply into her reflection, and for the first time in a long while, she smiled back at it, feeling like she was at last someone to appreciate and look up to, after reading stories about inspiring princesses and heroic sorcerers for many years, now she felt like she could join them and keep on moving forward with so many people she loved and who loved her back. “Starlight, I think I’m ready!” she glowed, taking her special glowworm into her arms and heading out of the room, downstairs she could hear the clinking of plates, cups, mugs and cutlery, as well as Ambrose and Mum talking to each other, with a rather enthusiastic Percy chiming in every few seconds. As Golden reached the bottom of the stairs, she was startled by the sudden appearance of Oswald, who was snooping underneath the staircase and opening the doors, where two broomies ran out leaving a trail of dust in their wake. “Yo Golden! Have you seen Mickey?” asked Oswald with a grumble. “I’ve been searching for him for ages!” Golden and Starlight shared a grin between them, but tried not to make it look obvious in front of Oswald, but Golden’s smirk widened when she caught a glimpse of Mickey behind the door frame to the kitchen. “Hmmm, no idea Ossie!” said Golden. “I haven’t seen him all day, in fact.” Oswald stomped his foot and grunted, looking a bit more confused than annoyed. “Great gremlins, where did he go?!” he asked as he scratched at his head. “I could have sworn I saw him come in here…I recognise those round ears anywhere! Are you sure, kid?” Golden nodded her head, trying not to smile too much while Starlight nonchalantly played with the fabric of Golden’s robes. “I haven’t seen him either, Oswald!” she said without a hint of concern. “I haven’t seen anyone but Aero, Mum, Percy, Dad, Ambrose and of course you, Ossie!” Golden went on, Oswald tapped at his chin, going over in his mind to retrace his steps to try and figure out this little problem. “Wow, Mickey’s good at hide and seek…” he muttered. “At the same time it’s kinda annoying.” Behind the wall, Mickey peeked out and put his fingers to his lips, signalling to Golden he was about to make his move. Golden winked her eye at him, and distracted herself by hugging Starlight a little closer. “Looks like I’ll need the ol’ camera!” said Oswald, already beginning to stomp his way to the steps. “I’ll be right back, don’t move an inch, you two!” Oswald could reach the first step of the stairs when Mickey emerged from behind the wall and tackled, not too hard so he didn’t hurt or frighten Oswald, but just to wrap his arms around him and lift him up off the floor. “BOO!!” Mickey cried mischievously. “Caught ya, Ossie!” Mickey almost let Oswald down when the rabbit let out a high pitched scream of terror, pure horror was etched on his face! “GYAAAAAAA!!!! WHAT IS THAT?!!!” he screamed, the walls were practically shaking, even the cups in the kitchen rattled as it vibrated! Golden collapsed onto the floor, holding her ribs in a fit of laughter, how she didn’t feel any aches was a miracle. “Hahahahahaa! Calm down, Oswald! It’s only me, Mickey!” Mickey laughed as he released his brother, slapping his knee as he was overtaken by his own giggles. The adults in the kitchen heard everything, but went back to talking as they did, as it was just the brothers being their typical selves, though Oswald screaming like a girl was new to them. “Hold on, YOU were in on this?!” Oswald glared at Golden, who was still on the floor kicking her feet in the air. “For such a brave and hotheaded bunny, you’re easily scared by a prank!!” she guffawed, slowly trying to get up and not mess up her new clothes. Oswald grabbed the back of her robes and began dragging her, doing the same with Mickey in his other hand. “THAT’S IT!! You two are gonna get it now!!” Oswald threw the partners in crime onto the sofa and jumped in to tumble with them, more than prepared to take them both on at once, all three siblings laughing and rolling about in rubberhose style playfight. Starlight, while amused by the scene, knew Golden was still recovering and decided to give her an advantage, zipping around Oswald’s head as a distraction while Golden and Mickey made their escape from his ‘attacks.’ “Hey! Starlight, you’re not helping!” Oswald huffed, trying to bat her away but not wanting to accidentally smack her, there was the sound of popping, followed by a second, and Oswald knew exactly what they meant. “Oi! Give those back!” Golden and Mickey had pulled off his feet, holding them high above so he couldn’t reach, which only annoyed him further as he forgot to use his ears to give him a boost in height. “Such an angry face!” giggled Mickey, looking to Golden and smirking. “Shall we cheer him up?” Golden nodded, grinning as she was ready to give some payback to her older brother. The two of them started tickling their fingers all over Oswald’s feet while keeping them out of his reach, sending the lucky rabbit into a crazy fit of laughter as he pounded the sofa with his hands. “AHAHAHAHA!! CHEATERS!!” he screeched through his cackles, which were very amusing and adorable to hear from him. Their playful tickle fight came to a sudden stop as another joyous sound arose from the kitchen, along with the sound of an opening door. Julius ran through the living room, beckoning his siblings to quickly come in and join the others. “IT’S YOU!!” Percy elated, his soft eyes sparkled with the happiest tears he had in a long time. “Oh, it is so good to see you again! Come, come in! Have a seat, mama!” Upon hearing that last sentence, Mickey and Golden leapt off the sofa and made their way to the kitchen, Oswald following behind as he put his feet back on, still a little giggly and wobbly. The three of them looked in to see a beautiful lady with blonde hair, a wand, two pretty wings and a shimmering blue dress enter the scene, Golden’s mouth opened wide, this lady was a fairy! “You’ve grown so much, Percy.” said the Blue Fairy, her voice as warm and comforting as a gentle hug, just like a mother. “Yet you’re still the same wonderful boy I’ve always known.” Percy turned a bright shade of red, almost unsure of what to say to her. He was just so glad she was here, it was like he was a child once again. “Mama, I…I just can’t believe it. It’s like I’ve stepped back in time. Goodness…!” he mused thoughtfully. The Blue Fairy giggled, taking his hands in her soft, airy ones. “It must be quite exciting! And you might have known Percy, but there wasn’t a day that’s gone by when I hadn’t watched over you, from the very first day Yen Sid took you in as his apprentice. I’m very proud of you.” Percy looked completely speechless, his eyes welled up with tears again, he waved his hand in front of his face to try and dry them and stop them from spilling over. “Oh my…mama, I don’t know what to say!” he admitted, eventually taking off his glasses and wiping at his eyes. “Oh, look at me! I’m getting all misty!” From behind the Blue Fairy, a little cricket hopped into view, jumping onto Percy’s shoulder and giving him a good natured pat on the cheek. “And the feeling is mutual, son.” smiled Jiminy, tipping his hat to the emotional light man. “By golly, it sure is nice we are all together again.” Percy could have cried more on the spot, but he was too overwhelmed with happiness to do so. The younger trio of apprentices all let out a collective ‘awww’ at the reunion of Percy and his guardians, grabbing the attention of all the adults in the room. Seeing them, Percy almost spontaneously turned into light, and eagerly ushered the three of them closer. “LUMEEEN!!” he gushed, rubbing his eyes a bit more and fully composing himself again. “Lumen Lumen Lumen!! You’ve met Jiminy Cricket? Why, of course you have! Now meet the Blue Fairy! She was my caretaker, my guardian, aaaand my mama when I was just a teeny tiny little light! Isn’t she a sight? Come, come closer now, don’t be coy!” Percy gently pushed Golden a little closer up to the Blue Fairy, the young girl was frozen stiff, having not met a real fairy in person before, and never one as beautiful as her. “H-hi…wow, y-you’re very pretty.” Golden stammered slightly, her big eyes fixed on the Blue Fairy, who giggled and gave Golden a little rub on the head, Golden almost ducked inside her robes at this small gesture. “And so are you, little one.” the Blue Fairy complimented, already quite amused by the child. She turned her attention next to Mickey and Oswald, who were looking as curious as they were awestruck. “Miss Fairy?” Mickey wondered quietly. “Have we met before?” Oswald nodded, following his brother’s lead on the question. “You DO seem a tad familiar.” The Blue Fairy gave a small wave of her wand, approaching Mickey and Oswald and kneeling at their level, she stroked Oswald on his head, brushing his soft and fuzzy fur. “I do believe we have, in some ways.” The Blue Fairy answered, “I remember you, dear Oswald, when you wished for a star to guide you when times were hard, and you experienced a loss. It was my star that answered you that night.” Oswald didn’t quite register what she meant, until he thought back, way back, eventually remembering when he lost his home, until he was reunited with Ortensia again, his children and his friends, and then his siblings. His wish was heard…Oswald gasped silently and covered his mouth, he never felt more lucky than he did now. “Ohhhh…I didn’t know that- I-I mean…thank you, Miss Fairy!” he expressed graciously, becoming starry-eyed with wonder and gratitude. The Blue Fairy giggled again, giving him one more pat on the head. “It’s my pleasure, little one. And Mickey…” she turned her attention to him, making the little mouse go still and start blushing. “I remember you well, even back when you were still so young. You still have that wonderful spark in your eyes as you did back then. You’ve both grown so much, I can tell Yen Sid is so proud and adores you two so much.” She gave Mickey’s cheek a little squeeze, making him a little flustered and giggly. One would think Mickey was used to attention, but he couldn’t stop himself from feeling shy whenever he received it from someone. “Awwww gosh, he-he! You’re too kind, Miss Fairy!” he simpered, digging his toe into the floor and hiding his arms behind his back. Oswald gave the Blue Fairy a little tug on her hand. “Golly gee, miss…w-would you like some tea?” he asked in a silly voice, smiling brightly up at her. This prompted everyone to laugh at the heartwarming scene, it appeared the Blue Fairy had quite an effect on Golden and the boys. The Blue Fairy sat down, noticing Julius sitting at one side, curious yet just as enchanted by her. “I couldn’t forget you, Julius.” she smiled, tapping him on the nose with her wand, causing sparkles to fly out and make him sneeze a little. “I see you too have a wish inside your heart, just know, my little one, it won't be long before it’s granted.” Julius wasn’t sure what she meant, he wanted to ask her, and that she knew somehow he has a wish? A knock at the open door brought everyone’s attention to the arrival of Merlin and the Fairy Godmother. “Hello!” cheered Merlin, marching in with a quick little dance. “I do hope we are not too late, Yen Sid, but a certain tea set decided to rebel against me this morning!” The Fairy Godmother chuckled, cheekily tapping Merlin on the back with her magic wand, startling him and causing his hat and glasses to become askew, prompting him to adjust them properly. “So you put it in your magic bag!” she grinned. “Honestly, Merlin, you should pack light next time! Yen Sid, how are you feeling, my friend?” Yen Sid smiled seeing the Fairy Godmother, he looked like he was glowing, even radiant once he saw her, and opened his arms for a welcoming embrace. “I’ll be honest, Fairy Godmother, I’m feeling better than ever. Thank you.” he crooned warmly, the Fairy Godmother opened her arms in return, taking the old sorcerer into her hug, it was a reminder to everyone that Yen Sid always had strong feelings for the Fairy Godmother, the old friend he had known since his childhood days as an apprentice, and never left his side when he needed her care and advice. It was a possibility that the Fairy Godmother thought the same thing. “I’m glad to hear that my dear.” she sang lovingly. “I know you say my hugs are the best, but I daresay yours are even better!” He knew it was deliberate on her part, but Yen Sid looked like a giddy child in a toy store as he turned red, grabbing the brim of his hat and pulling it over his eyes. Ambrose smirked smugly, while Percy almost dropped to the floor, wishing he had his phone on him to record this. The Fairy Godmother turned back to the outside door, there was someone waiting, their head covered by a hood. “Come in child.” the Fairy Godmother encouraged gently. “There’s no need to be shy.” The hooded girl slowly entered the house, looking around at all the magical trinkets and decorations, spinning around and starting to laugh as she pulled down her glittery hood, revealing a wide eyed, dark skinned teenager with braids and freckles “Wooow, Fairy Godmother, you weren’t kidding!” she swooned, still spinning in a circle. “The place is so huge, haha! Woah-oh! Hehe, got a bit dizzy!” Star instantly peeked over Aero’s shoulder once it heard the girl’s voice, and burst into a chorus of ecstatic squeaking as it flew over to her. The girl was surprised at first, but recognised Star instantly, taking it into her hands and letting it nuzzle against her cheek. “Star!! Hahaha! I missed you, buddy!” the girl cried joyously. “How have you been? You have a lot of fun?” Star nodded greatly, spinning round and round and glowing as bright as a star in the night sky, then reaching out its tiny, stubby hand and giving the girl its signature boop on her nose. “Haha, I bet you did! Oh, uh hi!” The teen waved to everyone, smiling a little awkwardly at first, but the Fairy Godmother gave her a nod to indicate all was fine, making her feel a lot more comfortable in her new environment. “I’m Asha! Fairy Godmother’s apprentice, you all might have heard about me? I mean hehe, I’ve heard about all of you! And…oh, hello there!” Asha looked down upon noticing Golden had skipped up to her, looking up at her in amazement the same way she did at the Blue Fairy. “Wooow, you’re an apprentice too!” she burst cheerily. “And to the Fairy Godmother! I’m Golden, I’m Yen Sid’s apprentice, and his daughter too!” Golden held out her hand, offering it to Asha, who gladly shook it. Both of them were pleased to meet a fellow apprentice. “So you’re Golden, that’s wonderful! We must have so much to tell each other, I’ve heard a lot about your endeavours, Golden, and- ohh…” Asha suddenly drifted off as a pleasant small caught her off guard, noting the plateful of muffins, biscuits and jams that were piled up on the worktop. “Are those muffins we’re having with our tea?” There was a sudden rustling under Asha’s cloak, and out popped a baby goat inside her hood, wheezing his head about and looking around the place much like Asha had. “WHO mentioned muffins?! I’m in! I call five muffins please, I’m a baby goat who is still growing!” The young kid jumped out and bounded into Asha’s arms, snuggly holding as she took a seat next to the Blue Fairy. Golden once again stared wondrously at Asha, a girl so full of energy and stories, she was reminded of herself in that way, wanting to talk and learn more about her. “Being an apprentice is so cool, isn’t it?” she said, sitting down and petting the little goat on the head. “Yeah, it really is!” agreed Asha. “After Star here gave me my wand, I began training with Fairy Godmother to work toward helping others make their wishes come true. Honestly, I thought my friend Dario was joking, but ever since Fairy Godmother took me under her wing, me and Valentino here, we have been working pretty hard and been dedicated!” She gestured down to her little goat, taking a slice of muffin from her plate and feeding it to him. Valentino munched on the piece, and his long ears suddenly perked up. “Mmm, blueberry!” he said, Star didn’t wanna miss out on the muffins after hearing that and dived into the plate, knocking over a tower of different flavoured muffins. “She has been doing amazingly!” said Aero enthusiastically. “Just like you, Golden. I swear, next thing I know I’ll be asking you two for extra advice!” This earned a chuckle from Yen Sid and Fairy Godmother, who lightly patted Asha on the shoulder and pinched her cheek in a motherly fashion. “You see, child? I told you you had the makings of a true fairy in you!” Asha bashfully turned away, rubbing the back of her head while trying to maintain eye contact, which was difficult when she got a big compliment. “Oh gosh, come on…” she smiled sheepishly. “I just love caring for everyone so much, hehe! And what about you, Golden? I heard you were in a spot of trouble recently?” Oswald rolled his eyes, shooting a rather smug glare at his sister. “Understatement of the century.” he said sarcastically, taking a big swig of his coffee. If Golden was close enough she would have stolen his ears. “Hey, shut up!” she protested, pouting profusely at him, to her dismay, Oswald carried on, running his finger over the brim of his mug. “What? Can’t I do what Percy did and list off all the times you-HEY MMM!!” Golden instantly sent out a spell, a small, thick mist of blue magic that covered Oswald’s mouth, preventing him from talking too loudly. “Grrr, why did you get your magic back?” he grunted, his words muffled and quiet. Golden grinned awkwardly, hoping she didn‘t make a bad impression with her new friend, but Asha simply giggled, enjoying the sight of sibling banter. “Hehe, anywaaay…yeah, I did run into some trouble, but it’s all okay now! I’m alright aside from some achy joints.” Golden took a biscuit, slowly chewing on it as she watched everyone starting to engage in conversation with one another, drinking their teas and coffee, and eating the snacks provided at the side. Yen Sid of course had to remove the spell from Oswald’s mouth so he could eat again, who still glared unhappily at Golden’s little trick. Golden then went silent in thought, almost gasping when she realised what the Blue Fairy had said earlier. “Umm, Miss Blue Fairy?” she piped, the Blue Fairy kindly giving her undivided attention. “About earlier, you said you heard Oswald, saying he had wished for guidance?” she asked. “That’s right.” nodded the Blue Fairy, who saw Golden become wide eyed and red in the face, looking away from the fairy and into her glass of water. “I…I see…” the young girl hummed, unable to hide a giggle that escaped, which left her feeling a little more embarrassed. “Oh, it’s quite alright, there’s no need to be bashful.” The Blue Fairy said in a teasing yet soothing voice, not wanting Golden to feel insecure about what she just realised. “Are you alright, child?” asked Yen Sid, raising his eyebrow as he looked at her, the youngest apprentice covering her head with her red hood, which by now blended in with her blushing face. “Well, Yen Sid…” chimed the Blue Fairy. “Recently, somebody had turned to me and asked for help with a tough decision. I think you might know who, hehe.” Yen Sid was taken aback slightly, but gave her a warm smile, looking over all his apprentices, including the two older ones that were now masters. Merlin cleared his throat. “Aha, I see all your apprentices are aware of the power of the stars?” he quizzed lightheartedly. “Haha! That’s truly marvelous!” Yen Sid gave a low hum of agreement, signalling the broomies over once everyone was finished with their tea and confections, all seven taking away the plates and shuffling away on the floor to pick up any crumbs, one broom scurried away into the hall once Valentino jumped down to chase it, with Star following him. “Their powers are, evidently, quite diverse.” Yen Sid stated. “I look forward to seeing the paths these fine young sorcerers take after their graduation. But first…” He rose from his seat, a dark shadow fell over his face, which looked even more serious than his signature stare. “Examiner Sid must make an appearance.” In an instant, all the apprentices went silent, it was rather comical to the adults, who all began snickering. Asha was a little confused by what was suddenly happening, looking to the Fairy Godmother for an answer. The jolly, playful wink from her mentor told her to play along and see how it all goes.
Yen Sid beckoned his youngest forward, Golden shrank her shoulders as she glanced at the serious look in his eye. The apprentices knew not to play around when Yen Sid went into this ‘examiner’ mode and gave them that piercing glare. Golden slowly approached her father, watching him take a seat on one of the other chairs. “Your homework, Golden.” he requested, holding out his hand. Golden hastily reached into her graduation robes for her journal and spell book, handing them over to Yen Sid, who surprisingly took them from her gently. He looked over the pages and sheets of paper, and momentarily looked like he was putting on a pair of reading glasses. His eyes studied the words, over several times to keep the anticipation in his daughter, while she carefully studied his eyes, her hands becoming a little sweaty as she watched him. And then, finally, he gave a sigh. “Well, this is expected.” he said bluntly, making Golden gulp, the other watching apprentices all exchanging worried looks. “And even then, you are LATE turning it in.” Yen Sid continued, his voice growing sterner. Golden nervously rubbed her hands together, several things were going through her head at once, she was surprised she didn’t start glitching. She thought he couldn’t possibly blame her for being late though, given how she was a corpse, surely? “Umm, hehe…yeah, but…is it good?” she tittered, only to be met with another glare. “Quiet.” Yen Sid ordered, Golden instantly keeping her mouth shut, just not with the spell she used earlier. Yen Sid went back over the pages, staying silent and keeping everyone on edge. A slight curl appeared on his lips as he finally spoke again. “Like I said, expected.” he said. Golden was just about ready to explode from the waiting, it took all of her might not to grab her head and scream on her knees. “OH WILL YOU SPIT IT OUT!!” she cried dramatically. “I can’t take it anymore, I just can’t!!” Then, all of a sudden, Yen Sid started to laugh, it was a pleasant sounding chuckle before turning into deep, uproarious guffaws, surprising each and everyone in the room. “And by expected,” Yen Sid laughed, wiping a stray tear from his eye. “I mean you did well!! Congratulations, Golden.” Golden was ready to protest and argue with him over her results, only taking a few seconds before she realised, she had actually passed, she PASSED. “I…wha-I…oh my goodness!!!” she shrieked happily, jumping onto Yen Sid’s lap and scattering the papers all over them. “Thank you!!” Yen Sid chuckled lightly, wrapping his arms around her and calming down from his laughing fit. “You’ve answered all your questions well and your talents and learning of magic have come through very well, except…well that’s not the usual way to use a reversal speech spell, but it doesn’t matter, all that does is you’ve passed, my girl.” Golden was still giggling like a high pitched hyena from the sudden adrenaline, her hands were still sweaty despite the positive outcome. “Oh gosh, I think I’m gonna faint…!! Phew…” Yen Sid laughed again, patting Golden on the back and holding her a bit more comfortably in his arms. “Well, Examiner Sid WILL do that to you, but it’s all part of the process, darling. Hahaha! Uhh, a good thing you can’t read my mind, eh?” Golden pouted playfully, not entirely fond of that procedure, but glad she came out of it alive. Merlin rose from his chair, clapping his hands and summoning a new feast of food and drink, as well as a banner that read ‘congratulations apprentices’ in large, gourdy lettering. “I’d say this calls for a celebration!” he cheered, everyone was amazed by the banquet of food, it was all of their favourites! Yen Sid took Golden back to the table, sitting her down so she could enjoy a well earned meal. “You’ve all worked very hard, so I’m happy to let you enjoy the rest of the day doing what you love, or perhaps simply relaxing. And even after you’re graduates, I’m always happy to teach you when you seek out my wisdom.” Yen Sid expressed to them, looking over his beloved apprentices with pride and warmth, especially now as they had reached their goal under his teaching, like many others before them. “Wise words, my friend.” said Merlin. “There’s always more in the world of sorcery to explore in the ways of learning! It doesn’t stop after one graduates.” Percy raised his hand, piling on several slices of ice cream cake onto his plate. “That I can confirm!” he resounded. Golden picked up a chocolate pastry, she was about to bite into it, but hearing what Yen Sid and Merlin just spoke, she had to say something while she was still living the moment. “Hehe, that’ll be wonderful!” she grinned brightly. “I’ll be happy to continue learning, and seeing more of the world and perhaps one day, I’ll even teach my own apprentice, so long as each and everyone of you is here with me! And after this…hmm, maybe we can take another trip to see Aurora and Delphis and all their friends too?” She took a bite, getting a lot of chocolate syrup around her mouth in her excitement. Yen Sid watched her amusedly, handing her a little handkerchief to wipe her mouth. “I like your thinking, Lunula.” he grinned. “They would all surely be overjoyed to see us all again.” Golden took the handkerchief, smiling as Mickey and Oswald started picking out all the different fruits, while Scout was biting into a bagel spread with cream cheese, looking like she was in heaven at the taste. Yen Sid suddenly remembered earlier this morning that Scout had come to him with a very important question. “Ah yes, Scout?” he called. “Didn’t you say you had a path you had chosen for when you finally graduated?” Scout nodded, chewing on her bagel for a little longer before she swallowed, totally not so she could savour the taste. “That’s right!” she said. “And I’m choosing…” she gave a little smirk, deliberately taking her time before answering and keeping everyone in suspense, though everyone had an inkling as to what her answer was. She finally stood up in her chair, clapping her hands loudly and giving a shout. “MAGICAL MIXING!!” she announced, earning a round of applause from her family and friends, all of whom were all happy to hear her chosen path. Percy jumped up in his chair, throwing out his hand for a high five with Scout. “I KNEW IT!!” he cheered victoriously. “I KNOW YOU ALL TOO WELL, MISSY!” Scout laughed and returned his high five, turning her cap around and already summoning several music cues and making a little tune, which Golden recognised as ‘Scout’s theme.’ “Scout as a magical DJ…I can totally see that!!” said Oswald, pumping his fist in support of his sister and dancing his lucky dance to her theme. “Watch out world, they’re gonna see my name in lights!!” Scout sang, already feeling like her own master or sorcery. “And I think the name ‘Scout, Master DJ’ has a nice ring to it!” She struck a pose, looking as cool and loud as any DJ would be, before she saw all the eyes staring at her with great interest, like she was already hosting her own party. She gave a slightly embarrassed chuckle and sat back down before she got too excited. “Sooo how about you Mickey?” she asked, the young mouse smiled as he heard his name called, and sat up straight, thinking about his own path that he had planned for a long time. “Hmm, let’s see…I wanna continue my studies into star magic…after seeing the stars in the galaxy with Golden a while back, I felt so inspired and I knew it was for me! Maybe you can help me out, eh, Oswald? What do you say?” Mickey winked at Oswald, nudging him in the ribs for an answer. Oswald appeared rather casual as he was prompted, but after a bit of thought, he gave a smile and threw an arm around Mickey. “Sure thing, Mick. Star magic sounds fun!” he replied, giving Mickey a quick little noogie on the forehead. “Until then, I’ll probably go around being king or something, Wasteland might need a mighty sorcerer to lead ‘em!” Mickey giggled, accepting Oswald’s amusing little answer and fixing the fur on his head, to avoid him looking like he just got out of bed. “And what about you, Julius?” Everyone turned their attention onto the young cat, who looked a little nervous, mewing softly as he fumbled with his robes. “Hmm, I was thinking…” he said slowly, his little tail wagging with interest. “Thinking…a magical historian! Y’know, those who do all sorts of magical research and seek out all sorts of historic myths and legends in the world of magic! I’m sure there is a lot out there to discover, and maybe people out too…!” Golden turned to them all, noticing how excited they all seemed about their futures. “But…you won’t go away, will you?” she asked, all four of her siblings turning to look at her, as her once happy face looked quite saddened, she remembered how most of the cohorts would leave after their graduations. Mickey then turned to Oswald and Julius, and Scout, and then all of them broke out into smiles. “Course not!” Mickey cheered, running over to give her a hug. “We aren’t going anywhere, I’m sticking right here, haha!” he chuckled, Oswald nodding. “We may have jobs and lives, but this is our home, kiddo! Same as you!” he smiled, Scout giving her a thumbs up. “A home we’ve made together, and we’re all gonna stay!” Julius finished by pumping a fist and joining in the group hug, so now Golden was surrounded by all her siblings, Yen Sid taking a little photo for his album. “Pity, I was hoping it would get quieter around here.” he joked, Percy putting his hands on his hips. “Master I am OFFENDED!! I will have you know I make the most noise out of any of these children combined!” he pouted, Starlight sighing. “That I can agree with, especially when you use your bell to wake us all…” she groaned, Golden giggling as everyone gathered around her, Percy smiling and taking her hand. “You know, Lumen, I used to worry my own graduation was the end of a lot, but it’s the start of a brand new chapter! And that chapter will be full of light, you’ll see!” he cheered, Golden smiling and wiping away a tear, she truly felt proud at this moment. “Then…then we’ll all be masters together, right?” she smiled, her four siblings nodding. “Of course, we will all get there someday, and that day will be even cooler than today!” Scout grinned, Julius bouncing up and down in excitement. “I can hardly wait!” he purred, thinking of what Yen Sid had told them about mastery and completing personal goals. “Who knows what each of you will accomplish? Either way, I’m certainly sticking around!” Percy smiled, Golden hugging everyone as Yen Sid set up a magical camera, taking a picture of them all, one that would stay preserved in his memories and album alike forever. And after gifts and a nice dinner, Golden stood in the Observatory, holding a bouquet of flowers Ambrose had got her, he’d got them for every apprentice, well technically, now they were sorcerers…hers was very pretty, it had a rainbow of flowers, and she held it close as she stared up at the stars. Despite the fact she’d graduated, she felt there was something on the horizon, and couldn’t wait to find out what was next for her…and the possibilities were infinite.
A week passed, and the newly graduated sorcerer woke up one special day, checking her calendar twice just to make sure- October 2nd, she was officially ten years old! Golden gave an excited little squeal and hopped out of bed, getting dressed in a special dress today, instead of just her usual robe, it was a sky-blue pinafore with a white blouse and petticoat underneath, and she liked to wear it for special occasions. She rushed to brush her teeth, passing Scout on the way. "Woah there little sis?! What's the rush?" she giggled, Golden just laughing it off, but then as she brushed her teeth, she dwelt on the words...surely they hadn't forgotten amid all the fighting and excitement?! She tried to shrug off her uncertainty as she brushed her hair, soft strokes as she held the vibrant blue and purple locks between her fingers, tying a blue bow to match her dress and putting on some socks and dark blue loafers, she looked like a storybook character, it almost reminded her of Belle! So regardless, she was in a happy mood, and hoped Scout was just sleepy, and would head down to an exciting day of fun for whatever papa had planned! Usually he'd do a little party, with cake and presents, and invite some friends. She wondered if he'd invite any of her new friends over, though she wondered if it would bother someone like Sofia, who obviously had a lot of royal duties! Nevertheless, the little girl descended the stairs, seeing the boys all sitting round the breakfast table, and found her spot, practically jumping into her chair. "Good morning!" she grinned, Mickey giving a chuckle. "Someone's happy today!" he giggled, "what's the occasion, little sis? You're dressed all pretty!" he smiled, Golden raising an eyebrow, half convinced he was joking, but then looked at Oswald and Julius, they looked a little puzzled. "You pretending to be a princess, Goldie?" Julius squeaked, Golden meeting his eyes with a confused and concerned expression, her face falling from its previously joyous expression. "Um...no, don't you know what today is?" she whimpered, Oswald rolling his eyes and taking a sip of his coffee. "Boring old Thursday! I say we skip it and move to Friday, what do you say Mick?" he smirked, Mickey nodding. "Yeah, Thursdays are the worst! And November is like an extended Thursday, the gap between Halloween and Christmas feels endless! Speaking of which, what are you dressing as this year, since it looks like Goldie already found her costume!" he giggled, Julius thinking for a second. "Probably a skeleton, hehe! And you?" he smiled, Mickey tapping his chin. "I'd like to be a vampire! Maybe dad will dress up as one too and we can duo!" he chuckled, Oswald nodding. "I'm gonna be a pirate! Watch out, here comes Captain Hook the second!" he cried, Golden looking down at her plate as one of the broomies served her. It stared at her, and shuffled, asking why she was upset. "It's...nothing, broomy..." she smiled weakly, reaching out to pat it on the back, to which it returned the gesture, but didn't wish her a happy birthday either...had everyone really forgotten? She took a bite of her banana bread, it tasted particularly good today, fresh out the oven with chocolate chips mixed in, it felt like a treat, usually Yen Sid would give them treats on special days...she hoped he'd remembered. He soon entered, giving her a warm smile, and sat down. "So how are all my apprent- I mean, my little sorcerers, doing today?" he chuckled, he kept doing that and forgetting they were all little graduates now, just like Percy and Aero. And speaking of the light man, he barelled in too, transforming and plopping onto his chair. "Good morning master!!" He cheered, Yen Sid giving him a smile. "And good morning to you, Percy. How did you sleep?" he asked, Scout wandering in and sitting down last, taking a sip of her juice and starting up a conversation with Oswald about his newest dragon figurine. Yen Sid turned to them all, they all looked well, except one...his youngest, why was she so glum? "Lunula, are you feeling alright? You didn't have a nightmare, did you?" he spoke kindly, reaching out to take her hand. Golden felt rather sullen, but allowed him to hold her, Percy sneaking a glance at the master. "Well you certainly cleaned up your plate, so you aren't without an appetite! Why don't you and I go out today, on a little adventure?" he offered, Golden looking up and a little intrigued by the prospect of what this adventure might entail. She nodded slowly, Percy looking gleeful at the idea of adventuring with his little sister. "Oh I have the PERFECT idea!" he grinned, suddenly zipping upstairs, and reappearing a few moments later in his celestial prince outfit, the one he'd been gifted at Christmas and wore every so often. "We can be a prince and princess!" he smiled, Golden perking up slightly...it was no birthday party, but at the very least she wouldn't be moping about. Though the thought of everyone forgetting, forgetting how important birthdays were to her...it made her feel very melancholy, and such was evident in both her face and mannerisms, back slightly slouched, eyes toward her feet, slower movements than usual. Percy, though, watched her get down from the table, and contrary to usual, walk over to the sink and put her plate in, though in reality she was checking the calendar date...there was nothing written for today, the 2nd of October, and it made her heart feel heavy.
After some time, Percy and Golden made their way out, spotting some clouds drifting overhead, and a sleepy glowworm floating atop one of them. Percy giggled, using his light magic to draw her down to the ground and gently rocking her in his arms until she woke up. “Morning starshine, bright day!” Percy grinned, Starlight groaning and turning over, snuggling into his chest and trying to block out the sun. “Too bright…” she mumbled, Golden unable to resist a laugh at her friend and hoping Starlight hadn’t also forgotten, surely the person she’d known since the DAY she was born wouldn’t forget, right? After a few more prods from Percy, Starlight finally woke up, yawning and looking up at them both sleepily, righting her cap. “Mmmm…what day is it? Wednesday?” she yawned, Percy shaking his head with a smile. “Nope, wrong you little star baby! It’s Thursday! And a boring Thursday at that, gosh nothing interesting ever happens on a Thursday!” he whined, Golden holding the folds of her dress a little tighter as she looked away slightly, feeling a lump forming in her throat. It wasn’t MEANT to be a boring day, if they could remember what day it actually was…but it seemed none of them did. She even wondered if her biological parents might’ve forgotten, and the thought didn’t help her heavy heart. Starlight moved over to her, gently touching her shoulder, as she often would to comfort her, and promptly sitting on it. “You alright, Goldie?” she asked, Golden unable to speak as she tried to hold back what could be described as a flood of tears and sorrow- forget exams on your birthday, crying is even worse! Despite this, she held it in, and nodded slowly, Starlight reaching up to pat her cheek. “Hey, don’t be sad! We’re outside, there’s lots of pretty butterflies and dragonflies…wait! You and Percy look all regal! Are you going to a castle?” she asked, Percy giggling at the thought but shaking his head, his sideburns going rather swishy and the man running his fingers through them. “Ohoho no, little one! But we ARE going on an adventure, would you care to join us?” he smiled, Starlight grinning. “Oh I’d love to! Where are we going? Tell me!” she demanded, Percy slyly shaking his head. “We’ll get there when we get there!” he chirped, Starlight playfully folding her arms as she settled back down onto Golden’s shoulder, who began to walk alongside Percy. As they walked down the path, away from the house, Golden started kicking a stone about and Percy slyly kicked it back to her, so they soon started to play a mock-football game with the stone, nudging each other to try and kick it before the other could. Despite everything, Golden giggled as Percy managed to send it flying, where it hit a bush and startled a flurry of butterflies, all the beautifully coloured creatures swarming around them. They stopped for a second just to admire the rainbow hues of their wings, some of them landing on Golden and making her laugh, Starlight reminded of Flutter and holding out a small hand to try and get one of them to land on her. Several of them had landed on Percy’s sideburns, which he wasn’t particularly glad about, and one of them perched on his glasses lens, the man not wanting to disturb it but also needing to see out of both eyes, not just one!
As the time passed, they left the flurry of butterflies and headed onwards, almost as if they were going to Sonatina’s home or Fioritura city, but took a different path, heading to the right and coming to the lake that flowed through the forest and near their home. Walking across the bridge, Percy made it light up and play a little tune, before lifting Golden onto his shoulders. “Yes, your name is little Lumen! L-u-m-e-n for Lumen! Yes, your name is little Lumen! You’re so tiny and so shiny woo!” he cheered, Golden giggling slightly at the song he’d made up for her. “Make one for me too!” Starlight pouted indignantly, Percy hiding a sly smile as he heard her. “Alright, fine! Ahem! My name is Starlight, I smell like stinky feet! I sleep on clouds and I protect dreams…except I fail because everyone has nightmares!!! Did you like it?” he smirked, Starlight going red and her hat flying off her head in rage. “I do NOT smell!” she snarked, Percy giggling and Golden laughing into her hand as he carried her through the trees. “What about a song for you?” she offered, Percy putting a hand to his chin. “Hmmm…there was one Astra used to sing… they’d say ‘Percy is the greatest kid because he is a light boy, he has a suitcase that never ends and we fill it with all our toys!’ hehe!!” he laughed, Golden giggling, Astra sounded fun, and she wanted to meet more of Percy’s old friends and cohort… she stared at the view ahead, they were heading through the trees, and toward some small mountains that she could just see if she squinted from her bedroom window…where could they be going? Starlight eventually got off and sat on Percy’s head instead, drumming a rhythm on it. “Hey Goldie, you know there’s a fun story about this spring sprite?” she asked, Golden raising an eyebrow and shaking her head. “I don’t know that story…” she admitted, Starlight looking delighted that she was able to tell her. “Well, there was once a beautiful green sprite that took care of the land! After the coldest winters, she would fly through forests of green and thickets of trees, decorating every branch with blossoms, and every bush with leaves. Her power over nature was infinite, and she used to sing the most wondrous melodies as she worked, ones that the trees themselves echoed back to her in every rustle, and the winds harmonised with every swish.” Starlight explained, Golden looking around in wonder as her imagination went wild, Percy picking up the pace and moving forward, Golden putting her arms out to feel as if she was flying just like the sprite, as every tree seemed to blend into one large mass, like the cloak of foliage it wore. “One fateful day, the sprite was trying to decorate a mountain with her greenery, but the mountain didn’t allow it…she went inside, trying to figure out what could be the matter, and discovered there was a dark spirit inside, the Firebird! It roared and screeched, and brought a storm of fire down on her creation, a wreckage ensuing that nobody could’ve anticipated…” Starlight continued her story, Golden imagining the Firebird to be made of a volcanic substance, skin dark as ash and burning underneath, glowing yellow eyes seeping through the darkened forest as the Sprite tried to escape. “But…when all seemed lost, the Sprite found a friend in an Elk who had previously admired her creation. He revitalised her, showing her that even tears can create beauty, as when hers hit the ground, they blossomed into blooms and buds that grew new life in the place of old. And so, she rained upon the entire earth, and filled the forest with new songs and creatures, for many years to come…” Starlight smiled, Golden putting a hand out as a droplet fell on her head, splashing her and making her wonder if it was raining, though it was merely excess water from the trees above. “You know what the best part about the story is, Goldie?” the little glowworm asked, Golden shaking her head. “It’s that it taught me that after the darkness, there’s an even brighter light than before! Cloudy told it to me and it was so amazing!” she squealed, Golden smiling at her friend’s enthusiasm and noticing they were getting closer to the mountains, Percy was humming to himself as he listened. “Ah, but did you know there’s even more to the legend, Starlight?” he smiled, Starlight shaking her head and flying down by his nose. “There is?” she asked, the light man nodding. “Oh yes! It was said that one special spring, the sprite was inspired to create a beautiful life form, shaping water and flowers into a daughter for herself, after watching some siblings playing in the forest and feeling a particular affinity for the youngest, a sweet little girl. With magic and a little patience, she created someone for whom she could love and care, and unexpectedly, several other little beings appeared too! As the world changed around them, they strayed further from home, but the little daughter always kept her mother in her heart, no matter how much distance there was between them.” He finished the tale, Golden touching her chest slightly. No matter the distance? It made her think of her own mother, just as she had before, she usually ended up thinking about them on her birthday, at first who they were, and now, where they were. She didn’t want to find them and cause them trouble if they had moved on, but at the same time, it really was an unhealed wound, and she longed to be held one more time by the people who had raised her for half a lifetime. Her thoughts soured again, reminded bitterly that even her new family had apparently forgotten her birthday, despite celebrating Scout’s 16th birthday just a few weeks ago…were they all more important than her, or something?
They passed another small stream, filled with pondweed and lotuses resting on lilypads, opening as they jumped over, as if to greet them. They had the most beautiful pink hue, and this place seemed largely uninhabited, just birds and trees, the air filled with echoing songs and the rustles of wind, the gentle trickling of water echoing through and creating a bright atmosphere. The floor of the forest was covered in leaves too, prompting Golden and Percy to get into a leaf fight whilst Starlight played referee, though they soon pressed on, heading toward a little town at the base of the further mountains, they were to the east of the Symphonus household, though Golden had a perfect view of them from her room if she looked hard enough, due to facing the same direction. It occurred to her she’d never visited the east of Lumos before, since the Kingdom was large and expansive, holding several cities, Nocturne, Fioritura, as well as several others, including the one she’d visited with Vanitas and Prisma, not to mention the vast forests and mountains, and all ruled by various governors and governesses, and the council taking care of everything… She remembered hearing Ambrose make a joke that the next governor elections were happening, and the thought made wonder… “Hey Percy? When’s the governor election that papa was talking about?” she asked, Percy gently stroking his chin. “Hmm, I think it should be toward the summer of next year. We should start seeing all sorts of banners, flyers…ugh, politics is not the thing to be discussing, Lumen, I get rather irate!” he warned, Starlight squeaking and moving onto Golden’s shoulder again. “In Dreamland, we have a queen every four years. They once tried to elect ME, but I said heck nah, I’m fine!” Starlight explained, Percy raising an eyebrow. “Why’s that?” he asked, Starlight shrugging. “It sounded stressful, plus it meant I wouldn’t be able to see Goldie as much, and she’s always my priority!” She replied, Percy giving a slight smile. Golden, though, felt her shoulders fall slightly. If she was really Starlight’s priority, then why couldn’t her best friend remember her birthday?
Finally, they reached their destination, entering the town and being welcomed by various villagers, who weren’t used to the outsiders, but a few seemed to recognize Percy. “Here we are! This is a place I used to go with Astra sometimes, when we were very small, along with the old town! We called it our cosy cafe, though I’m sure it has another name…” he mused, taking a look at the signage, “Ah, it’s called the Grand Paradis! Perfect name since it has the best sweets, like a little slice of heaven, hehe! Come on you two, let’s get a snack before I take you to another stop on our adventure!” he grinned, Golden looking at the menu, there was a sweet looking parfait, as well as a little orange cake with some white chocolate and what looked like several chunks of fruit…Starlight had her eye on an entire platter, with rillettes and verrines, and Percy was excitedly looking at the diverse drinks, settling on something called an ‘upside-down milkshake’, which he recalled sharing with Astra! As they sat and waited for their food, Percy pointed out some of the flowers engraved into the woodwork, and she started to forget her birthday troubles. Did this count as a party since she was technically getting cake? In any case, she and Percy were definitely dressed for the occasion, and Starlight was happy to create her own little flowers with her wand, eventually deciding to make a flower crown out of forget-me-nots, bluebells and cornflowers for Golden, putting it on her head and entwining the stems with her bow, so it looked rather beautiful. Percy smiled at the sight, glad to see she didn’t look so down, though the reason as to why she was so sad was still a mystery. Regardless, their food soon came, and Golden looked delighted by her parfait, as well as the waiter throwing in an extra little orange cake, the young girl staring at the chocolate decorations, one was shaped like a beautiful window, and the other reminded her of a butterfly, promptly biting into them and enjoying the sweet flavour. “So that’s two meals you’ve eaten chocolate for, young miss!” Percy giggled, clearly he wasn’t a responsible adult and didn’t care about calories as long as the young sorcerers stayed healthy and fit, and he wasn’t the type to endorse dieting, being of average build and enjoying being so! “Mmm, Goldie, try this!” Starlight urged, passing her a peach verrine. Golden tasted it and made a face. “You like peaches, Starlight?” she grimaced, Starlight shrugging. “It’s not bad! I don’t LOVE it but hey, it tastes pretty nice!” she smiled, Golden just giving a coy shrug and drinking water to get the taste off her tongue. Starlight continued tucking in, trying a sugary roll coated in chocolate next, whilst Golden ate her parfait, watching as Percy picked at a little selection of cakes. “Oh Lumen, they’re so pretty I don’t want to eat them!’ he whined, Golden giggling as he picked up a nutty chocolate cake on his fork and sighed. “Thank you for your service to society, you marvel of creation…” he languished, before promptly popping it into his mouth, his eyes nearly popping out of his head in turn as he took in the flavour. “Okay scratch that I’m eating every single one of these!” he squealed, starting on his milkshake at the same time as Golden laughed at him, he really had brightened up her mood, even if this wasn’t the most perfect birthday, it still felt like a special day, and right now, that was enough.
After they finished the food (and Percy almost cursed at the bill, remembering just why he always used to share with Astra), they headed out again with full stomachs, ending up walking through a small valley in between two of the large mountains, and coming to a curtain made of willow fronds. “Lumen, ohhh I’ve heard this place is beautiful!” he giggled, the little girl pulling back the floral curtain as Percy took a small photo- she really looked like a princess, or Alice in Wonderland, exploring a world just beyond a magic door. Starlight and Percy followed her in, it was a gorgeous cave, the walls marbled and sparkling with little crystals and gem formations, geodes sticking out as stalagmites and stalactites reached out for each other, some having joined hands and forming sturdy pillars of rock that Golden dodged, peeking through the occasional gap and playing peek-a-boo with Starlight. “Gotcha!” she called, her voice echoing as she grasped her little glowworm and started tickling her, Starlight’s little laughs reverberating throughout the cave system. It truly was a wondrous sight, and Percy had an idea, picking up some slate from the ground. “Lumen, have you ever tried drawing on this?” he asked, creating some light tendrils and starting to burn an image into the rock, so hot that it became white and the drawing was visible, depicting the spring sprite and her little daughter. Golden was amazed, picking up some slate herself and grabbing a rock to draw with, scratching into it as Starlight began making some gems float, putting them together to arrange a pattern that looked like a butterfly. “Percy, look, it’s pretty!” she cheered, Percy watching as she held the crystal construction up to the light and it sent beautiful rays cascading all down the walls, floors and ceilings, like a disco ball! And soon, Golden was done, turning round her slate to reveal a pretty drawing of herself, Percy and Starlight, all on a little adventure, and surrounded by butterflies just as before. Percy smiled and used his magic to summon his halberd, picking up a pointy rock and bashing it into the wall to act as a nail upon which to hang the slate art. It wasn’t particularly damaging to the cave, considering he’d been gentle, and looked pretty, Starlight hanging up her butterfly next to it and Percy moving his slate nearby too, so now the cave had a little gallery for any future visitors. Percy’s phone then buzzed, and he smiled. “Ah, last stop everyone!” He cheered, leading them out as they walked again, heading back toward Fioritura and then Sonatina’s house, who opened the door as soon as they were in sight. “Percy! Golden! And Starlight too, I’m so glad you’re all here! I have some rather important errands to run and I need some extra hands!” she smiled, Golden nodding and trying to look at the shopping list, but was quickly led outside by Sonatina, hearing a few bumps and bashes as the group went, but assuming it was just some books falling over, as often occurred in Sonatina’s library. They arrived in town, Sonatina going door to door and handing bags to the trio with little bits and bobs inside, from ribbons to paper lanterns, Golden looking down curiously. “Oh, they’re for a friend, the council is having a party soon and asked me to get decorations!” Sonatina smiled, Percy nodding. “Indeed, we’re having a grand party, and inviting everyone! It’s going to be the celebration of a lifetime, unforgettable!” he smiled, Golden feeling a pang in her chest. “I’m sure it will!” she forced out, Percy giving an approving nod. “Well then, let’s set on off home, Sonatina, didn’t you say you wanted us to store these in our storeroom?” he asked, Golden not recalling that but supposing she just hadn’t been listening. Starlight gave a nod. “Ooh Percy, why don’t you go on ahead? I have some books I’d like little Golden to read, actually!” Sonatina smiled, Percy nodding and giving a playful salute. “Yes Mum! I’ll see you soon!” he smiled, Sonatina watching him take half of the decorations and holding the rest, Golden keeping a hold on her hand. “Hey mama…do you know what day it is?” she asked, hoping that someone like Sonatina would at least have remembered her special day. Sonatina put a hand to her chin in thought. “Ah…is it….Thursday, is it? 2nd October, right?” she smiled, Golden giving a hopeful nod. “Did you forget to check your calendar, or something? Nothing important about that silly old day!” Sonatina shook her head, Golden’s shoulders instantly drooping and her hold on Mum became far less firm. “Oh…I suppose…” she sighed, Sonatina glancing at Starlight, who reassuringly touched Golden’s shoulder. “Well you have had a fun day, yes dear?” Sonatina asked gently, Golden nodding. “Mhm…we went for a walk and to a nice cafe, it was called Grand…Paradise, or something fancy, and there were lots of nice sweets, some of the chocolate actually looked like butterflies or windows…!” she explained, brightening up a little as she recounted her day to Sonatina, who listened enthusiastically. “And don’t forget about the cave, or the story!” Starlight interjected, Golden nodding. “Oh yeah, Starlight told me a story about a magical sprite and her little daughter…i-it reminded me a bit of you…” she admitted, Sonatina going a bit pink and the glowworm shrugging innocently, it wasn’t intentional but now she could see it, especially having been trapped with Sonatina and acting somewhat like her child for a while when they were both separated from people they loved. “Oh, and Percy took us to this pretty crystal cave, where we drew on slate and made sculptures!” she smiled, Sonatina nodding as she opened the door to her home, inviting Golden inside. “Alright, you stay here and pick some books, I recently got some new ones and put them in that corner for you…make sure you’ve got clean hands, alright sweetheart?” she smiled, passing her a napkin and Golden obediently cleaning her hands to make sure the books stayed pristine. She combed through the shelves as Sonatina walked into another room, she thought she could hear her whispering, but tried to ignore it, adult business wasn’t hers. She found some pretty storybooks had been left for her, one about a time traveller who used a magic box, and another about a human boy and a girl made of bubbles falling in love…the final one left for her was a book about a pod of dolphins, reminding her of Delphis’s pod, and she took them gratefully, Sonatina hearing her moving and coming back through. “Alright, are you and Starlight able to make your way home without me?” she asked, Starlight nodding enthusiastically. “We know the way, mama, don’t we Golden?” she smiled, Golden silently nodding and giving Sonatina a wave as they departed, holding the books close to her chest.
“You’re awful quiet, Golden…” Starlight mumbled, Golden not having it in her to reply, she felt drained, and now that she was around the one person she felt comfortable being wholly herself around, she was fine with being open about how tired she was. Halfway to the castle, she sat down on a bench and put the books down next to her, bringing her knees up to her chest as Starlight hovered near her. “What’s wrong, Goldie…?” the little glowworm asked, patting Golden’s cheek gently, Golden looking up at her with sad eyes. “I thought…I thought you might know…” she whispered, Starlight looking a little puzzled but now feeling bad for her friend, clambering onto her knees and taking a hold of her blouse, clinging to her. “Well even if I don’t, why don’t you tell me? A problem shared is a problem halved, bestie.” she offered, giving Golden a soft smile as the little girl’s eyes welled with tears, her hands reaching out to pull Starlight into a tender hug against her chest. “I…I just wonder if I’m a bother, that’s all. I mean, I messed up bad with Vor, and caused so much trouble…it’s no wonder…t-they all forgot…” she wept, Starlight’s eyes widening slightly. “No, Goldie, you’re never ever a bother! We all make mistakes, and like Percy said, yours lead us to interesting adventures! I’d never have seen that pretty mirror realm if I wasn’t saving you, and hey! I didn’t get caught by Ursula this time!” she grinned, puffing up her chest slightly to appear bigger and stronger than she actually was. “But Goldie, I know how you feel, too.” she admitted, Golden staring at the little glowworm in curiosity. “When we were separated, I…used to wish you were doing well, but counting the days I wasn’t with you made me wonder if you’d be better off without me.” she admitted, Golden instantly shaking her head. “No! No, I need you…” she whispered, Starlight hiding a smile. “And I need you too. So we gotta be there for each other.” she smiled, wiping a tear from Golden’s cheek and pulling a tissue out of her pocket for her. The glowworm then snuggled against her chest once more, listening to the rhythm of Golden’s chest as it rose and fell, and the heart inside beat and sparkled with the magic she held. “And just so you know…I’d never forget you. You’ll always be in my heart, and I’ll always be in yours.”
As the sun set over the horizon, the two made their way back home, Golden feeling a little brighter and walking inside, noticing the house seemed rather empty. “Hey, I’m home!” She called, but nobody replied. Starlight zipped off to go do her own thing, leaving Golden to sit in her room and read, she decided to start with the story of the man with the magic box. It was all about time travel, and stories of different worlds. She could picture Percy liking this sort of thing, she’d walked in on him before watching sci-fi and the like, so he’d definitely enjoy this space fairytale. She read about parasite gods and impossible girls, and then when she finished, she moved onto the romance book she’d borrowed, imagining an overgrown city and the romance that blossomed within thanks to astronomical phenomena. She imagined herself vaulting over buildings, chasing impossible dreams, and reading about these characters, it made her feel less lonely. She picked up Mr Tiger. “Psst, did you know the girl in this book had blue hair? Like me a bit, hehe!” she giggled, showing him the pages of the book so he could “read” alongside her. And upon finishing that book, she found herself tired, but since there seemed to be nobody around to talk to, she didn't mind cuddling up in a blanket and reading about the cetaceans of the seas…she wondered if Delphis would’ve thrown her a birthday party in his reef, since despite not knowing her birthday, if she told him he’d probably summon the entirety of the seven seas, and squish her with thousands of fish hugs and dolphin kisses. The thought made her giggle in the darkness of her room, and she reached toward her bedside table, where the photo frame lay, and in the drawer, the necklace Mako had given her. She slipped it over her head, continuing to read, and was just about done with the story when she realised what time it was, nearly 7:15…she sighed as she realised it wouldn’t be her birthday for much longer, and decided to head downstairs again…still nobody was about, so she headed to the art room, where a painting she recognized had been enchanted to move, the one of the masks and theatre. “Well hello there little lady! Oh, is somethin’ the matter?” the MC asked, Golden tearfully shaking her head. “No….” she sighed, the MC looking sorrowful. “Aw, don’t look so glum, kid! I know just the thing! Ladies?” he whistled, the other three marionette ladies coming alive. “I believe it’s an awful special day for you, isn’t it?” the MC winked, Golden gasping and realising he knew, a little smile stretching across her face. As the marionettes sang her happy birthday, Golden finally felt the ‘happy’ part a little more. And then, there was a knock on the art room door. “Goldie? You in here?” Mickey called, Golden turning as the portrait froze, though she swore she saw the MC give her a wink just before it did. Mickey approached her as she stood up, giving her a smile, since she still looked a little melancholy. “How was your day out, little sis?” he asked, Golden giving a soft nod. “It was good…we did a lot, it was nice.” she spoke quietly, and Mickey gently took her hand in his own gloved one. “That’s swell! But I have a favour to ask, do you think you can follow me for a while?” he asked, leading her through the halls, it looked quite dark, only a few candles were lit up, and she couldn’t help but wonder where they were going. “Where are we even heading, Mick?” she asked, Mickey giving a small smile. “Oh just to do some chores! I need help opening some stuff that dad brought home and organising it all!” he chirped, Golden almost rolling her eyes. Really, chores? That didn’t sound fun at all! They finally reached the workshop, which was dark and seemed empty, Mickey gently pulling her into the centre of the room. “Alright just stand right here…I’ll be back!” he cheered, running into another room and grabbing several boxes, ones which were indiscernible in the little light. “Okay, now everyone!!” The little mouse cried, and Golden stared in wonder as the workshop suddenly lit up, revealing it had been decorated in the most beautiful garlands and ribbons, blue, purple and gold all shining together. An iridescent curtain acted as a backdrop, stitched with butterflies, flowers, hearts…and of course, sorcerer hats. Every table was set and ready, and the broomies were even wearing party hats in their respective colours! And Mickey…was holding a pile of presents, every member of the family jumping out and holding one too. “HAPPY BIRTHDAY GOLDEN!”
For a second, she was completely silent, her mouth in a little ‘o’ as she stared at everyone…there was her dad, the boys, Scout…then she noticed Ambrose, Brooke, Coral and Caspian, the children blowing into party blowers, then there was the entire Nothing Reef gang- had dad done some aquatic magic to let them in?! Sonatina, Star, Aero and Starlight were all balancing a cake…maybe she’d been hearing Aero baking in the background! She noticed the castle staff were all in attendance, Fife and Angelique holding a little present between them, and some dolls too, Jules, Zuri, Rouge, and even Linnea! Azurine, Asha and the Wayfinders stood together, waving at her, whilst Percy dangled down from one of the balconies upside down, grinning gleefully. One of her hands went over her mouth in surprise, and then she felt her eyes blurring with happy tears…they hadn’t forgotten after all. As everyone rushed toward her, putting gifts and such down on the table, there was a knock on the door, and even more guests streamed in, there was Felicity, Morty and Ferdie, and the entire council, and finally someone who made Golden stop and stare in awe. Sofia!! She let out a gleeful giggle, and then Yen Sid picked her up, gently holding her in his arms. “Happy birthday, Lunula…” he whispered, Golden sniffling slightly, and Yen Sid wiping her tears. “Oh, did you really think we forgot?” he chuckled, Golden nodding and burying her face into his shoulder for a second, trying to resist actually crying, but it was so relieving to know that Starlight had been right, that she was in their hearts and they’d just been playing around with her to keep this a secret! As her sorrow turned to joy, she felt a warmth, one that seemed to grow as the moonlight cast itself down through the windows, joining the warm glow of the candles that covered the room, and filling the room with a beautiful light. “Thank you…” Golden whispered, Yen Sid shaking his head slightly with a smile. “Oh little one…we could never forget you, not in a thousand years. You are important, and loved…no matter where in the world you go, you will leave an imprint on every heart you touch, and tiny fragments of yourself will rest in people’s souls…you are a wondrous piece of creation, and that makes you unforgettable.” He stared down at her, as she wiped her tears and looked at him with the happiest expression he’d seen in a long time, the man reaching down to give her a kiss on the forehead, and then playfully tickling her with his beard. “Now…I think you have some presents to open…and since we’ve been late with this birthday party, it will continue into tomorrow, so everyone will be staying over, and we can all spend time together just as family and friends.” he smiled, gently booping her nose and putting her down- before she was promptly hug attacked by Oswald. “HAHA!!! I’ve got you now little sis!” the bunny cheered, picking her up as she giggled, she was essentially healed by now from all her aches, and then three more people entered the room, Ortensia, Minnie and Fanny, followed by a parade of bunny children, who clambered up Oswald and wished her a thousand happy birthdays- it made her head spin in the best way possible!
The family sat in a circle, Yen Sid allowing Golden to open her gifts whilst everyone looked on. First, the boys handed her a wrapped parcel, she opened it to reveal a beautiful little music box, handcrafted! “We spent forever on it!” Oswald grinned, Golden looking down at the shape, it was a carousel, and the “horses” on it were actually a phoenix, unicorn, wolf and stag. She couldn’t help but smile, and wound it up, Julius moving next to her. “Mickey did the painting, Oswald carved it with help from some instructions, and I made the music box! It took a long time, do you like it?” he asked, his little black eyes full of hope. Golden nodded enthusiastically, gently putting it down as it spun and throwing her arms around her big brothers. “I LOVE it!! It’s so pretty, thank you so much!” she exclaimed, eyes sparkling and the brothers doing a three-way high five behind her back. The next present was passed to her, from Scout and Sonatina, who gave her a grin and a warm smile respectively. “This one’s from us, little one.” Sonatina smiled, Scout giving a thumbs up. “Trust me, I’ve been very observant!” she chuckled, Golden reaching for the parcel, it was quite big, and she was careful to unwrap it as some edges poked out, placing it on the floor for ease.
Upon revealing it, she stared at them both in surprise. “Do you like it, dear?” Mum asked, Golden nodding gently as she looked at it, it was a playset she’d had her eye on for months, a beautiful theatre that looked just like the one from all those years ago. She traced her hand over the signage. “Lumen! That was my idea, hehe! I thought you might like to remember that nice little place!” Percy called, flying down to sit on her head. She gave a soft smile, and noticed they’d also included a little doll- wait, it looked exactly like her! She grinned and took it into her arms, the doll had her hair, eyes, even wearing her little robe and hat…she turned the playset around, the inside of the theatre had several little slides for different movies, and miniature food, and plush seats that felt soft against her fingers…she smiled, reminded of how much the Nocturne Theatre meant to her, and what she wouldn’t give to watch a movie in there with both parts of her family, all together and united as one. A small tap distracted her, as Fanny passed her a gift from the girls. “It isn’t much, but we sure hope you like it! Julius was great at giving us ideas!” she giggled, Julius going bright red as his girlfriend batted her eyelashes at him. “Ah…i-it was nothin’!” he squeaked, Mickey and Oswald stifling laughs. Golden took the parcel, it was quite long and thin, and she unwrapped it to find a beautiful lace parasol, decorated with pearls and stars that twinkled in the candlelight. “Woah…like in the paintings!” she gasped, Ortensia giving a chuckle and Minnie nodding. “You can take it on a romantic night!” she winked, Golden going crimson at the thought. “With who????” she giggled, Minnie shrugging. “Well that’s for you to decide! But just imagine, a boat on the lake, fireflies…oh how romantic!” she swooned, Mickey gently catching her and the two chuckling, having been on many of those sorts of dates in their lifetime. Next up, Felicity encouraged Morty and Ferdie to go forward, the bunny children all helping to carry the small parcel, it was a little squishy, so it was clothes of some sort! She thanked them all and opened it, it was a pretty white t-shirt decorated with galaxies, and then a pair of celestial overalls to match! All were decorated in beautiful blue and purple stars and galaxies, and she hugged them close, almost wanting to try them on now but also loving her current outfit…oh how was she ever to choose?!
More and more gifts were unwrapped, Aero and Star, against Yen Sid’s advice, had bought her some roller skates, and also a new paint set since her last one had run out recently, Azurine had made her a crystal headband that reminded her of a princess tiara, and Fife and Angelique had made her a special Christmas ornament, shaped just like her little golden heart, and which glowed like a candle when she pressed it. Aqua then reached for a large parcel resting on the side, and handed it to her. Golden took it gratefully, and opened it, recognizing a familiar shape…she held it up with two hands, it was a wooden keyblade, just like the ones Aqua, Terra and Ventus all used to play with as children. She traced her hand over it, and Aqua gave a smile. “This was mine when I was little…I thought you might like to have it, since you don’t have an actual one yet like myself or Mickey, but you might be able to train yourself with it!” she encouraged, Golden turning it over and noticing some childish handwriting, a carving of Aqua’s name from when she was small. It made Golden smile, and using her magic, she carved her own name next to Aqua’s, so now they were side by side forever. Terra and Ven gave her a smile, and then handed her a small package of their own, some cute checkered armbands that looked like the ones Ven wore. “Now we match!” she cheered, the golden-haired boy nodding and grinning. Mako suddenly barrelled into her from behind, bumping her like a shark attack, but much more gently, and lifting her up onto his shoulders. “Whee! Mako!!” she grinned, the shark running circles around a table, still holding her, as everyone giggled at his antics. “It’s been too long, kid!!! I’ve missed you!” he grinned, lifting her into his arms and pressing his head against hers, his black hair contrasting brilliantly against her vibrant locks. Delphis smiled, and moved over, it was as if he was underwater, which was all thanks to Yen Sid’s clever thinking. “Hello child. We have a present for you!” he whistled, a lot like a dolphin, and broke out into a grin as she looked delightedly at the wrapped box he held, he’d wrapped it in some pretty paper decorated with all sorts of fish. Opening it, she grinned, Mako giving her a toothy smile as they both knew exactly what it was for. Flutter and Bee moved over. “We did the decorating, they all did the finding!” she cheered, Frill nodding enthusiastically, as Golden took in the box in her hands, a shell-decorated jewellery box, with a little painting at the top of all of the Nothing Reef gang, Marina’s little brother included, and even Shamu waving a fin in the background. She touched the necklace around her neck, and looked up at Mako with bright eyes. “Shark win!” she cheered. Someone else shyly stepped forward, before ducking back and hiding behind Marina’s leg, who giggled softly. “Don’t be afraid, she’s our friend, remember Delphis told you?” she whispered, a boy with blonde hair and the same sea-blue eyes looking out, he was wearing a pink flowery shirt like his sister, and some matching trousers, though they looked a little more red in hue. “U-um…happy birthday!” he smiled, Mako putting Golden down so she could approach the boy. “I’m K-Kobu…you’re Golden, right?” he stuttered, looking shy as Marina held onto him. “That’s right! It’s good to meet you!” she replied, holding out a hand to shake and Kobu gladly accepting, before drawing out his own gift from behind his back. “This is from the aquarium near my house…Delphis was telling me the story of when you visited him, and I thought it might be a good present…” he explained, passing her a little dolphin plushie he’d bought for her. Golden hugged it close, eyes sparkling, and gave Kobu an elated grin. “I love it! I’m gonna name it Delphis!” she cheered, Delphis going a bright red and having his usual silly grin on his face, Aurora laughing at his reaction. “That’s sweet of you child.” the sky spirit chimed in, Golden putting her presents down on the floor and smiling at them all, and yet there were still more, perks of having a large family!
Some of the visiting dolls stepped forward, Jules walking over to her with a smile. “Hi again!! We made you something special!” he cheered, handing her a little device. Upon pressing a button, it lit up with a magical image of Jules and all his friends, and they began to sing a special song they’d written just for her, one that was full of beautiful orchestration and melodies. She bopped her head to it, and thanked him by giving him a pat on the head, Rouge and Zuri moving next to him for their own headpats, Golden obliging and then opening her arms for all of them, holding them close to her heart. Linnea then stepped forward with a smile, and handed her own gift, a little wooden tree that looked just like Tangaroa, with different tiki birds and gods perched atop his branches. She took it gratefully, tracing her hands over the intricate carvings. “I made it with my magic, I hope you like it!” she grinned, Golden looking at the bud in her hair and remembering Linnea was the demi-god of creation, and nodding with a smile. “It’s beautiful! So many details…!” she squeaked, looking at everything and squinting to take in the smallest of features, like Rongo’s kite or Pele’s volcano. Coral then came up behind her, throwing her arms around Golden with a giggle. “Big cousin!! We got you a present!” she cheered, Golden laughing at the name, she was barely months older than Coral, but nevertheless, took the gift from them, Ambrose bending down and ruffling her hair. “We thought of you when we saw these.” he chuckled, Golden tearing off the wrapping to reveal a hand puppet shaped like a princess, reminded of a few Christmases ago when Coral and Caspian had received ones like that, clearly they wanted to play with her, and then underneath, there was a little flower hairclip, a white lily. “I saw some lilies one night in the moonlight, they were beautiful and reminded me a little of you, since I was struggling for birthday present ideas,” Ambrose explained, “lilies symbolise purity and rejuvenation, I found them very fitting for you, as you always shine and make us feel reborn in your light.” he smiled, Golden going pink at all the compliments she was receiving, though also really enjoying the praise and attention, especially after a day of feeling lonely and miserable. She reached out to cuddle Ambrose, who lifted her into his arms and spun her around, Coral and Caspian soon clamouring for a turn. “And your cake, my dear? The recipe was from Brooke, she wanted to help Sonatina make the best cake ever! It was the one Master Grey used to make, remember Yen?” Ambrose smiled, Yen Sid’s eyes lighting up at the memories of his own birthdays spent in the castle, with the best tasting cake he’d ever had in his life. “I replicated the recipe from descriptions and memory spells of Ambrose’s, and I think it’s perfect, give or take! And knowing Sonatina’s baking skills, it will taste as good nearly 300 years later!” Brooke spoke proudly, Sonatina blushing slightly as everyone in the circle looked at her. “Oh please, Brooke…” she giggled, everyone sitting down again as the last few presents were passed around. The broomies had gotten Golden a flipbook, depicting various beautiful scenes that she could watch over and over, and Asha had bought her a wand grip, to help her hold it easier just as one would benefit from a pencil grip. There were also some cupcakes from Rosas, which had been expertly crafted by Dahlia, and had a little lemon flavour, meaning she’d had to be extra careful around Safi so they weren’t ruined. Despite being unable to attend, the baker had left a note in swirly handwriting wishing the little girl a happy birthday, and including the recipe if they might like to bake the cakes themselves someday. Sofia stepped forward, embracing Golden tightly, and handing her a small parcel. “Here! I got it made by Mister Cedric!” she giggled, the little girl unwrapping it eagerly, and gasping. “It’s just like yours!!” she cheered, Sofia nodding. “I asked him to make it blue to match your hair! It might not be magic, but it’s definitely pretty, he added lots of sparkles!” she grinned, Golden staring down at the little amulet she’d been gifted, it had a turquoise gemstone, matching her bright eyes, and looked almost exactly like Sofia’s. Mako smirked. “Guess where you can store that now?” he joked, Golden laughing and obediently putting it in the jewellery box, and then her fin necklace too, so they were both safe and sound. The final few gifts included some from the council, the Fairy Godmother and Blue Fairy being the ones to give them. “We were going through some old boxes and found some special things! They’re all very clean and well-maintained despite being old, so we thought you’d like them!” The Fairy Godmother spoke, taking out two little presents. Golden took them gratefully and set to opening them, the smaller one revealing a notebook and matching pen, decorated with beautiful lotus flowers, and the larger was a cute dress, similar in style to her current pinafore, but in turquoise and with the exact same lotus print. “We aren’t sure why they were there, honestly…but looking at them, it felt like they were meant for you, little one.” The Blue Fairy smiled, reaching down to give her head a pat, which Golden appreciated, feeling fuzzy inside as she stared up at the beautiful fairy. Percy then zoomed by. “My turn, mama!” he cheered, pulling a box from nowhere with his magic. “For you, lumen!” he grinned, passing her yet another gift, Golden couldn’t even count how many presents she’d been given, but she loved them all! She opened Percy’s present, it was an astronaut helmet! “I know how much you love the moon, so I thought, ‘oh, Lumen would love this!’ when I saw it!” he declared, Golden putting it on and standing up, Percy laughing as she started to run around as if she was flying, some of the other children present starting to join in. The final two presents were waiting, though, so the hyper little girl calmed down, pulling the astronaut visor up so she could be seen, but keeping the helmet on as a whole. Starlight flew over. “I made it myself, hope you like it Goldie!” she called, handing her a teeny box that the girl promptly opened, staring down at it. Made out of clay was a cute little brooch, decorated with rhinestones and shaped like a star, Starlight having drawn a smiley face in the middle and giving it rosy cheeks, just like the star that hung off the end of her hat. “Ta da!” she cheered, Golden immediately pinning it to one of the straps of her pinafore, smiling as the brilliant yellow looked bright against the darker blue. She held out her arms for Starlight to fly into them, and squeezed her tightly, feeling glad to have such a good friend for her entire life, and being hopeful they’d share many more wonderful memories together. And the final person to give her a present was Yen Sid, who handed her a little paper bag, tied with a golden ribbon. “For you, little one.” he smiled, Golden pulling off the ribbon (which was subsequently stolen by Star so it could wrap it around one of its points), and reaching inside for the gift. She felt around, and then her hand brushed against something, grasping it and pulling it out…it was a willow circle, with feathers hanging off it and beads strung up by threads, forming a heart…Golden gasped as soon as she realised what it was- a dreamcatcher. “I was reading up on dreams, lunula, and I read a legend that these little items protect people from nightmares or evil, and can be sleep charms. It isn’t much, but I crafted it myself, and used your heart as my guide.” he smiled, Golden holding it close to her chest. Despite the future-sight dreams still being frightening, she’d made a promise to communicate with others more, and would try her best to keep it. Scooping up some of her presents, Percy helped with the rest by using his light tendrils, and they took them up to her room, before he lit the candles on the cake and they all started to sing. “Happy birthday to you…”
Elsewhere, it was a clear night in Nocturne, and a man was walking through the streets, holding a drawing he’d been given some time ago. She’d told him it was time, so he headed out, staring down at the sketch of the roach and smiling slightly. Traversing through the alleys, the man came to a stop by a light, it looked almost identical to the sketches from the prior years…he heard a little shuffling, and a small cockroach popped out from under the dumpster, causing the man to raise his eyebrow. He held up his palm, casting a spell, and the cockroach levitated, elongating and shedding its shell, becoming a person…there was a gasp behind them, and the man swiftly turned, noticing a black-haired boy wearing a locket was watching. He turned to face him as the newly-transformed Andrew started to cough, falling to his knees as he tried to regain his balance and readjust to this form. “You’ll feel fine soon enough.” the man spoke, Vanitas eyeing him up. The locket around his neck began to glow, and the man once more raised his palm, levitating it off his neck despite Vanitas trying to grasp it. Taking it into his palm, the man opened it, staring down at the little face inside. “Vor…I presume?” he asked, the witch staring up at him in fury. “Who are you?” she demanded, the man chuckling. And upon speaking his name, Vor froze in place. “The time is upon us…I have a plan, and I need all of you onboard for it to work.” he spoke, Andrew wobbling as he got to his feet again, leaning on the wall for support, whilst Vor looked up in intrigue and Vanitas planted his keyblade into the ground so he could lean on it. “I know someone who shall aid us with knowing when we should initiate it. Gather the Wicked Nine, and anyone else you might know of… I require information, and information I shall receive, in exchange for revenge…” he offered, all three villains staring at him in curiosity and excitement alike. And as the moon watched over them all, it was starting to be covered over by clouds, reminding him of a night many years ago…
Upon returning to the Church of Foretellers, Mirai was awaiting him, sitting by a window and gazing out at the moon herself. “You did it.” she spoke as he entered, the man hanging up his coat on the rack and nodding. “I did. They are ready…I have instructed them all.” he spoke, Mirai turning to meet his eyes. “Is there something on your mind, sir?” she asked, the man sitting next to her and putting a palm on the window. “The night…ten years ago.” he replied, Mirai reaching out to touch his back gently. “I was…just about twenty, then.” she replied, touching the choker she wore around her neck, all the eyes gazing at the man, observing his every move. “Yes…you still aspire to be a Leader, do you not?” he asked her, Mirai nodding. “Father…he was. He might not have used the powers often, but he used to summon the eyes to watch over me. His old hat now rests atop my head…I often imagine the eyes aren’t my own, but his…that he still watches over me, even now, and mother too.” she spoke, taking the man’s hand. “I owe you my life…” she whispered, the man shaking his head. “Do not thank me yet. We aren’t out of the woods with this catastrophe, and if what Vor was telling me is right, it appears my dream so long ago wasn’t an accident.” he spoke, Mirai nodding. “Go on.” she spoke, he often mused about this event, it certainly was striking. “I saw it all… a little baby, who glowed and sparkled with the strength of an army, and the potential of a legion.” he sighed, Mirai putting a hand on his shoulder supportively once more. “The light that night…it filled the sky, and touched many homes. And yet…we haven’t seen anything of such scale yet.” she mused, both of them staring up at the moon. The man shrugged and sighed, and then stood up, Mirai turning back to the sky. As the man departed for the night, he stole one more glance up toward the moon, and felt a moment of doubt, raising up his hand toward it…but felt his resolve grow. He had to be strong, he had to be courageous…and he had to do what was necessary, at all costs. He smirked up at the sky, and then walked away. “Happy birthday, Golden…”
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