Mark of Mastery (keybladers only)

[Sora]

The countryside around the Mysterious Tower was still very much the same as Sora left it; green grass covering the large hillside area just before the entrance to the crooked tower itself, and viridian bushes and vegetation bordering the edges just before the hill fell away to soft. fluffy clouds. The weather itself around the tower seemed very much like the weather of it's neighbouring world of Twilight Town not too far away, orange and pink sunlight peeking on the horizon, setting a vibrant glow over the railway tracks of the secret train that gave passage to this mysterious world. The rest of the sky above was painted with the dark indigo of the night sky holepunched with glittering stars above, twinkling away as the hearts of the many worlds above and beyond, hardly any clouds besides the sea of them beneath. It made for perfect weather with little to no wind, and because the last of the glare of the sun was setting over the horizon, it's warmth had settled with the slight cold of the night sky, making it perfect conditions for what was about to take place here this afternoon. Even the shadow of the twisted tower above was cast over the clouds behind the small island, away from the lush pastures at it's foot, allowing the remaining light of dusk to leave behind it's comforting glow of vermillions and fushias.

Yen Sid had set the examination outside, as Sorcerer's Study at the top of the tower was too small a space for a gathering depending on the amount of people coming, and the magic he had directed to the rooms and stairwells in the middle of the tower were always changing in an attempt to keep out the flow of Nobodies, Heartless and other unwanted guests that were not of the Light that had gathered in his brief absence. The countryside at the base of the tower provided ample elbow and leg room for any scuffles that were about to take place, and was also the easiest part of the world for the newest wielders of the key to find without having to navigate, climb and battle the fiends within the tower itself. Yen Sid himself had sent out the message to all of those that had been chosen by their keyblade, whether it was by world of mouth from Donald, Goofy or Mickey Mouse, or communicated through the many links and pathways connected by the Light of the hearts of the worlds. All bearers chosen by the key - except those that wielded only the darkness, and chose to use their keyblade to cause harm and danger to the worlds - had been called forth for the Mark of Mastery, even if they were not yet of age to participate. It would give a chance for them all to recognize and meet the other keyblade wielders of this generation as well as watch the events that were about to unfold, as well as those who were qualified to test their hearts to see if they were let ready to undergo the responsibilities and duties that would be passed down to those who had the title of Keyblade Master.

Having arrived on this world first, just a little earlier ahead than schedule due to wanting to keep their punctuality and avoid the shame of tardiness, came the Court Magicial and the Captain of the Royal Knights of Disney Castle with a hesitant spiky-haired young man in tow. The short duck and the rather tall humanoid stood straight and saluted to the wise sorcerer, that stood cross-armed at the side of the door to the entrance of his tower, brows furrowed as they properly addressed the former master of their king. "Master Yen Sid! Here and reporting for duty!" Goofy hollered, dressed in his formal knight's attire, matching Donald's who had come in his own sorcerer's gear. "We brought Sora! He's ready to go when you are!" Donald added, looking at Sora, who had his head bowed slightly until he looked up and nodded in acknowledgment at Yen Sid. "Hey again," he greeted somewhat half-heartedly, meeting the intense look the imposing wizard gave him. "Sora. I am expecting many great things from you. And Donald, Goofy, please wait with me whilst we await for the other masters to arrive." he instructed slowly, as the three of them straightened up and saluted, after Donald gave Sora a hefty elbow in the ribs to show an equal amount of respect.

"Yes, sir!!!" they all shouted together unanimously, as Yen Sid slowly moved off to the side, followed by Donald and Goofy halfway until they stopped to notice Sora drooping his head once more. "Sora? What's wrong?" Donald quacked in confusion, the duck being rather excited himself, never having seen a event like this before. Sora shook his head slightly, as if shaking off whatever problem he had wasn't a big deal, but told them anyway. "What if... I don't deserve to be a Master? Or the keyblade?" he questioned doubtfully. "Gwarsh, what makes you say that, Sora? I remember the keyblade left you before, but it came back to you when your heart won the fight, so of course you do! You were a keyblade master when the worlds needed one the most, so you'll get this Lock of Mastery, yup, I just know you will!" Goofy chuckled, before Donald corrected him. "Yen Sid said it was Mark of Mastery. Don't worry Sora, you'll do great, even if you don't get to be a Keyblade Master! Oh boy, I can't wait to see who's coming! I hope the King is coming!" Sora sighed, and then nodded slightly. "Thanks guys." he simply said to acknowledge their encouragement, before the two of them moved off to join Yen Sid on the sidelines.

Somehow... Sora wasn't quite sure if his friends were right.

Riku had gotten a keyblade of his own, and Kairi had been given one... but when the storm on the island began this journey, the keyblade just... appeared in his hand without anyone passing on it's power to him. The secret of the keyblade is passed through many connections, Mickey had said in his letter, who no doubt got his keyblade and ability to wield it from Yen Sid. The thing was... the Kingdom Key was never meant to be his in the first place. As Riku had put it, he was just the 'delivery boy', who had just passed the key back to Riku, whom it was originally meant for. Not him... in truth, he was never meant to wield the keyblade, and the thought troubled him somewhat now that a gathering had been called to officially mark who was next meant to be Master.

He knew the keyblade was not meant to be the source of his power... it was his friends, and the strength and courge of their hearts that was connected to him that gave him the power to wield it as a weapon, and without them he was nothing. Just a little boy playing around with wooden swords, incapable of doing anything, and if we was meant to be a Keyblade Master then he did not feel worthy of it enough with his own efforts. What being a keyblade master meant to him had never been something he had chosen willingly; since he had the keyblade appear to him to wield, ever since he landed in Traverse Town everyone there and in the worlds after had thrown the title 'Keyblade Master' upon him. A title he thought just went hand in hand with him wielding the keyblade, but he soon grew to learn it was a massive responsibility and burden that had been thrust upon him along with the power of wielding it. The Door to Darkness had appeared to him previously as a sign the worlds had chosen him to be their guardian; all the friends he had made in his search to find the ones that were the most special in his heart and to keep the promise he made, all of them were counting on him to save them and their worlds as their last hope from the darkness.

Sometimes while out there in the worlds fighting that darkness, it became a burden he was unable to bear.

Not that he didn't want to be a Keyblade Master; other times it felt good to be someone special everyone looked to and relied on as what was right and holy in the worlds, and he wanted to be there for everyone that was close to him in his heart. He had even chosen to leave behind his home now in peace and the people he loved the most, in order to help the people who were not as fortunate to be as happy and content as he had become, the people he felt he owed who had made him not only the Keyblade 'Master' everyone looked up to as a source of salvation but the cheerful and weathered young man that people loved him for. He wanted to continue to represent the worlds and not fight just the darkness that was not the enemy, but the people behind it who were, and protect all the worlds along with everything and everyone they had grown to love and cherish. But if he was not chosen to be a keyblade master, if the duty was passed onto the new keyblade masters and over him... he would no longer be the person people looked to for help and keeping the peace. And maybe after everything he had gone through... maybe it was time to let others give themselves permission to shine. It didn't mean he couldn't go on his own journey and continue to find everyone that needed him who were waiting for him... even if he wasn't deserving of the title of Keyblade Master or the keyblade, he would still perservere to do everything he could to help them. Maybe then he could go back to his island and spend the rest of his days with the loved ones that were most important to him... for a time, but Kairi and Riku understood why he had to do what he had to do, just as he understood somewhat why they also needed to go their own seperate ways.

Maybe he would even meet them today... which brought a whole new batch of doubts and fears. What if one of them really wanted to be a keyblade master, but one of them was denied, or even worse wouldn't react to it well like he was prepared to accept? What if one or more of them left for good... disappointed and humilated they could not wield the key on a master level... and would never speak or see him again? Not all of them could be masters, and it pained him somewhat to think someone could fail to pass the mark, and would ex-communicate him because of it or other reasons. An even worse consideration was that if one of them was officially acknowledged as a Keyblade Master that their new responsibilities and duties of the official status the new masters gave would mean driving a wedge between him and his friends, even if they were all accepted, and that wielding the keyblades and what came with it would drive between them all.

It had between him and Riku... his best friend had grown jealousy of both his keyblade and his new friends of Donald and Goofy, and then shame of what the darkness had driven him to do... would this ceremony open old wounds, or inflict new ones?

He wasn't sure, and the unofficial Keyblade Master sighed, knowing everyone calling him as such was naive that his status was no more until the results of this Mark of Mastery were given. He raised his head and lifted his hand out before him, concentrating; in a brilliant flash of light, the Kingdom Key appeared in his grip, and he looked upon it's mirrored surface in reflection. Was he truly worthy of such a blade that it would stay with him even if he failed, and if it did, was he still worthy enough to be a Keyblade Master? It was no longer up to him or his friends telling him that he was; it was now up to those who were the Keyblade Masters. His new friends, Eraqus and Aqua. He lowered his keyblade to his side, pacing his legs apart slightly, and stood their as he waited for the other keybladers to arrive. Who would come? Riku? Kairi? The King? Roxas? Xion? The new keyblader, Ven? What other keybladers were out there? The fear of the unknown gripped his heart, and he tried to reassure himself that he just had to follow it despite it's doubt; but unlike any other competition he had ever been in with his friends before, this one did not only have their friendships and connections at sake as new paths would be determined from the results, but the fate of the worlds their keyblades had chosen them to protect, as well.

He had to cheer up and shake his sudden feeling of nervousness, but like he could even think that on his own; what was to become of them?

(OOC: I just was Yen Sid, Donald and Goofy for that post just for the setting; I am posting as Sora from now on until needed otherwise, so I'm going to be judged fairly without divided interests. Everyone post when you can, and we'll decide a posting order from then on. Have fun with this everyone!)

[light]

Master Mickey

The name itself held so much honor and dignity than the title he held as King, a title he himself was not proud to hold. Throughout all Mickey had been through this was the epitome of all his work. His courageous task to achieve the Kingdom Key D, his alliance with DiZ to help Sora regain his memories, and his guidance with Sora to help along his journey were only steps on a ladder. He was now walking down the walkway to a new door. A new life. A new beginning.

But was he ready?

Stepping down from the Mysterious Train, Mickey looked up towards the Tower where Yen Sid had trained him. The crescent moon and starry pictorials that were plastered upon the Tower's outside wall reminded him of his young days. A time where his imagination and hope guided him in the direction he needed to go. If only times were that simple now. With an expressed sigh, Mickey raised his head to regain the bold confidence that he use to carry with him.

Stretching out his right hand, a heavenly light surrounded the white glove. Slowly the light stretched out farther away from his hand taking the shape of the weapon he handled. With a quick wisp of air, the light broke apart revealing the shape and detail of the keyblade. A dirty yellow color embraced a majority of the weapon showing it's only difference from the Kingdom Key Sora held.

At this moment, Mickey began to think about all the other keybladers that would be joining him, if they were not already present. Not doubt Sora and Riku would most likely be present, but his curiosity got the best of him when it came to Kairi. Would she attempt to take another step forward just as her protectors would? Then there was the possibilities of other keybladers also. The possibilities were beyond belief. It would be a great thought to know that he, Sora, and Riku were not the only keybladers fighting to protect the worlds. The thought brought a smile to the worn and tired face of the mouse king.

Before walking forward, Mickey bent his left arm and flexed the muscles. Still there was the cut across his shoulder blade on his jacket and with the right angle one could see the impaling cut that the devil had permanently marked on the king. Looking at it no longer fueled his body with a reminder of disgusted memories of pain and lose. Instead, a determination took over his body. A look of intensity never before seen had replaced Mickey's demeanor. It could frightening to those who have never gazed upon the king in such a manner but he had to be strong for himself and others. The Light would help him through it and he just had to believe in himself.

"Well...," Mickey said to himself. "Here I go." With a slow paced walk, Mickey made his way towards the Tower. Looking around the corner, a smile could not hide itself from his face as he saw all his friends. Yen Sid, Goofy, Donald, and Sora. They were all there in a way to where they appeared to be expecting him. Mickey raised his left arm up to wave but winced at the pain in his arm. By the time either of them would notice, he would already be bringing his arm down slowly.

"Mickey Mouse present," he said stopping before the group. His cheeks raised even more that usual from the smile he couldn't hide from his face. It was finally great to see friends after everything he had been through. It was the final resolve before their next step. Hopefully things would turn out positive.

[kairi]

An eagerness had blossomed within her heart, and it was the first light hearted emotion she had held in a long while. [No pun intended.] Kairi had heard whispers of this meeting to test the new generation of Keybladers, and she sincerely hoped that she would see her friends. Riku and Sora. It had been so long, and she was done hiding and running away from what had been chasing her for these past few weeks. The cloak that had become her near second skin had been discarded from her, and she had resumed her normal fashion of clothing. Idly, the young Princess played with the pendant that resided about her neck, a sweet smile curling about her lips as she gazed at the silver crown. A little nerve wracking to see everyone after her disappearance, but it had been so silly of her to try and do things on her own. Kairi had wanted to prove so much that she did not have to be rescued by her two best friends each and every time, and that perhaps she could take care of herself.

This Mark of Mastery would become a testament to whether she had improved at all. Would she pass, or would she be two steps behind her friends once again? Her cheeks drained of color at the thought, but she had to believe she would be strong enough. No, she was strong enough to pass this test. Calming herself, the Princess quickly regained her confidence, not allowing herself to succumb to those thoughts. That was what had allowed her to walk into this mess, and she would have to see it through. Perhaps testing herself as a Keyblade wielder would be what she needed, and seeing her friends again. Who else would be there? Maybe the King and Aqua? The thought of seeing them comforted her, because both of them had protected her when she had been little. From those group of Unversed, as she had come to know from their brief conversation within her memories.

The train slowed to a stop, and her oceanic eyes flickered from the window. The colors had been so dreamy to gaze upon, passing by in a haze. Blinking back the blur that had settled behind her eyelids, the young woman tentatively made her way toward the door. Slim fingers rested against it briefly, and her heart began to race. It was rather exciting, and Kairi could not help but grin just a little. Her eyes would hopefully not retain the shadows of what not lurked within her heart, and as the door began to open, she gazed with a child-like awe at the spiraling tower that loomed above her. Master Yen Sid was to reside here, and thus where the test would take place. Her sneaker clad feet bounded against the grassy ground, her body running without her noticing, and the night sky was so bright and comforting. Duskiness settled within the horizon line, darkening as she raised her eyes higher. The doors to the tower were her main focus, but she soon something more of interest. The familiar sight of spiky hair, and the two friends that had been with Sora from the beginning of his journeys.

"Sora! Donald! Goofy!" she called out, skidding to a slight halt in front of them both. A little breathless from her sudden run, she placed her hand upon her chest to catch her breath. Oceanic eyes were bright, and she smiled happily at the trio, quite content to see them all so well. Before she could take any further action, the Princess turned her eyes to the King, but concern was soon evident in her features as she regarded his arm. Was there any way she could heal him? Maybe not, because she was sure he would have taken care of such a wound himself. What had happened while she had been gone? Guilt flickered across her features briefly, but Kairi merely smiled gently at Mickey. "King Mickey! It's an honor to see you again, and I want to thank you for protecting me when I was little. From those Unversed," she replied, the gratitude and warmth evident in her voice. The Princess wondered who else would show up.

[Deleted]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellpadding,0,true][atrb=cellspacing,0,true][atrb=width,500,true]

[atrb=background,http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww280/shiojisan/Keyblade%20Academy/Night/Night_Middle.png] The young man was still getting used to the idea of a new world. Earlier he just had explored this new town, completely alien to his own. All the buildings were nice, all made from a hard concrete where only the masters in his world were allowed to live in, while the rest of them were stuck in houses of hay, and wood. Their technology was high above his own, heck even their street lights had amazed him having been powered by electricity. Here he had thought all it could bring was pain, but it was also another wonderful source of light. Though that little moving crate of theirs really blew mind when he first saw it. What was it called again? A tram? Train? Well something with a 't.' He was having fun sight seeing at all the happy people in this new world until he felt something in his heart. It was weird, though he could feel something... calling to him. Though he didn't entirely understand this message of what it was saying, he just knew something was calling him. As if a drone, the young key barer walk to where he needed to be, not to much time later arriving at this 'train station' Night standing in front of the train he needed to be on. Still honestly amazed by this world's technology. Though now he was having doubts. Just what was it that had called him? Could he really trust it? How could he know it wasn't some trick? And just what was this 'test' from the message. He just didn't understand. But then he remembered so long ago, when he was in that dark place with the pillars about what that voice said. Blue eyes looking at the doorway. Keep. Moving. Forward. He gulped but entered the train and felt it move. It didn't take much time as in site Night to could see the very large tower that the train was taking him to. Once again just amazed by the sight. Though now slightly nervous because here the night sky was fully visible. However the below he could still see the sunset, so did this mean that he would be able to be able to use his spirit of light if needed? Already he was becoming more and more nervous. Still unsure he could trust the message he received. He was almost feeling scared. Should be be scared? His nerves were really beginning to take the best of him. He needed to focus, he needed to keep his mind clear. He looked out the window seeing figures already there which made him even more paranoid. Were they good? Were they evil? He honestly couldn't tell. The young man just deciding to do his what he could count on. The white charm on his bracelet began to glow, engulfing his body so it transformed to his light's weakest state. It made him much more comfortable than before. When the train stopped the newly formed Night walked out, standing at about 5' 9" with his light's form. It didn't seem like his power was that much weaker due to the light below, though he knew for a fact he would feel better with his dark spirit right now. He walked forward to see any else who were called. Seeing some boy, some girl, and this odd mouse looking thing. Yellow eyes narrowing in distrust. He didn't know this mouse, but due to instincts he already cautious of him. It didn't seem to matter that he didn't feel any darkness from him, the very fact he wasn't human was enough for him not to trust him. Well from his personal experience anyways. Though one thing he was able to tell, they all seemed familiar with one another, something he definitely didn't have with any of them. So it made him nervous to a point where he couldn't even bring himself to say hi, though he was hoping soon it would be explained why he was here. And who sent that message that called him there. Tags: Keybladers Words: 695 Notes: I ffffff your size 1 font! xD

[/blockquote] [/td][/tr][tr][td][/td][/tr][/table][/center]

[Sora]

(OOC: Just to bump this topic and keep it afloat until our true Keyblade Masters and others can get here, let's keep this posting order, and the others can jump right in whenever they feel like it. Thanks to those who posted that joined! And I'm putting my text size in size 2 from now on, because I've been told some people have had difficulty reading my small tiny neat text. -laughs-)

A quiver of anticipation went up Sora's spine as he heard the sounds of trains approaching in the far distance, the loud horn and the engines growing in sound, making him look up in his doubtful stupor. The sight of the mystical trains suspended on nothing but railroad tracks against the vivid hues of the sunset was a amazing sight to see, and Sora remembered his own first time aboard the train and coming into this world on the same path many years ago. In recognition and the Kingdom Key disappearing in a flash of light from his hand, he dug into his pocket and pulled out the blue orb he had recieved he had been looking on the train, not from the Struggle Trophy given to him by Seifer but the one he had recieved from the King inside the munny pouch. He understood it now, as he held up the transparent orb, and looked at the sparkling sapphire colors through it at the sun. This had been Roxas's orb... no wonder he had felt so sad when he had left, for Roxas must have made friends there too.

He wondered if his other would come, and with Xion too... but, considering all that Xemnas had done to make sure keywielders like himself were collecting hearts, he could understand the ramifications of if either Roxas or Xion were titled Keyblade Master and part of Organization XIII... maybe they had enough on their plates already.

The trains arrived as he pocketed the translucent sphere, and out the door came... the King! "Your Majesty!" he called out as he was assuaged, running over to him, glad to see that he was okay and in one piece. Looking him over, he immediately saw the nasty cut that had been sliced across his jacket and into his skin, two blades parallel together. He recognized the scar that had been left behind, knowing all too well the wielder of the blade, but was immensely content that not all of what the wielder of darkness had boasted was true. "It's good to see you again. Good luck with the examination, okay?" he smiled, leaning forward to pat a reassuring hand on his shoulder, before standing straight again.

A heavenly voice called out his name along with his travelling companions, and Sora raised his spiky head up as he recognized the voice, his heart skipping a beat and racing rapidly all at the same time. Running up to him with vibrant dark red hair in the sunlight and beautiful blue eyes was his most important person, his Light, and another wave of relief and happiness washed over him. "Kairi!" he called out in surprise and cheer at the sight of her petite and lithe frame stopping before them, his eyes only sensing something different about her, from the last precious moments they had spent together before they had went their seperate ways. Slightly retaining his innocence and naive as he always was, not having the ability to sense any light or darkness in a person, the only change he could put his finger on was the silver pendant around her neck. "You... you're wearing it?" he asked in astonishment as he looked up to meet her eyes, and smiled bashfully, touched that her new good-luck charm was so important to her. That she would adorn it along with her special necklace she had worn since the day he first met her, really meant a lot to him, and he reached into his pocket to pull out her lucky charm she had blessed upon him. "I've still kept yours safe, too... but, my journey isn't over yet. I found one of them, but... there are still people out there that need me. And I guess your journey isn't over yet, either, so I hope it brings you good luck today, Kairi." he smiled softly, and knowing Kairi gave it to him in the first place for the same reason until his journey was over, he put it back in his own pocket hesitantly.

He wished he could go with her, and they could have trained together for this and taught her everything he knew... but, it wasn't meant to be, and it made him feel bittersweet he and his friends had their own paths to follow.

He turned to look between his most special person and the King, as she thanked him for something he wasn't sure he fully understood, looking at them both for some sort of recognition. "Huh? 'Unversed'?" he questioned the word, wondering what she was talking about. Kairi had never met the King when they were little... had she? Sora had only first briefly met the King when he had been, at all places, through the Door To Darkness. Maybe... it had been before Sora had met her, when it had been only he and Riku? Sora rubbed his head with his head awkwardly, not even sure if he could remember that far back to those times, so Kairi must have had a much clearer memory than he did. Regardless, he turned to the King, and broadly smiled. "You protected Kairi when she was little? I have to be grafeful for that... thank you so much, Your Majesty." he acknowledged the King sincerely, turning back to Kairi with his soft smile, so grateful to have them both in his life as friends looking out for one another.

That was when a third train dropped off another newcomer... how come nobody takes the same train, and it keeps disappearing like that? Kinda weird,, he thought, shaking the thought off as the person appeared. This person was... a lot like the King, naturally shorter than he was, and resembling an animal like Donald and Goofy too. From having the keyblade for so long, Sora could recognize this person had a keyblade too, so he must have been here for the Mark of Mastery. Always looking to make a new friend and being able to make them so easily, he sent them the same warm smile he shared with Kairi and the King, and turned to include him too. "Hey there. You must be here for the Mark of Mastery too. My name is Sora. What's yours?" he greeted kindly, glancing back at the auburn-haired girl and the king of Disney Castle, mollifying them it was okay to say hello to the new keyblade wielder too.

[light]

The mouse's face was still lit up with excitement. Despite everything he couldn't help but find that a smile was present on his face when around his friends. They were proof that no matter what there was a light within each darkness. No matter how hard things were or had gotten your friends were always there. Hearing Sora's voice only helped. It reminded him of how much this young boy had saved the worlds. Now he was even more important with the challenge he had to face in the future. This wouldn't be an easy journey but neither was everything he had faced already. He was truly the Key.

"You too Sora," Mickey stated just as a familiar voice came across his ear. Turning towards the direction, Mickey smiled to see the Princess of Light make her appearance. Watching Sora go towards her only increased his enjoyment. However, seeing them together brought a bit of despair to his mind. His eyes slowly dropped down in remembrance of his wife. He had tried to protect during Kadaj's attacks but in the end everything turned downhill. Within him he could sense her light as he wished to join with it with so passion, but he had to get stronger and get the worlds in order. Minnie would always be closer to him than anyone else could imagine, especially after everything they had been through together. Just feeling her Light throughout the worlds was more of a blessing than anything.

But then Kairi turned to the Mouse King and began to address him. His head slowly raised as she recalled a distant memory. The king's eyes increased in disbelief as the scattered memories realigned themselves. Looking at Kairi, and seeing her smile, in an instant everything returned to him. Another memory joined with it. It was he and Aqua that had joined together to protect that girl and her...Light. Everything truly was connected. He was meant to save the young girl that stood before him.

"Gosh Kairi," Mickey said scratching his head. "I was just doing the right thing. I can't believe I never made that connection before." With Sora's praise Mickey's cheeks reddened as he blushed. Mickey was never good with taken compliments and praise from other people. He was simply doing his job. The thanks should go out to them for making something out of themselves from that experience. Here Kairi was baring her own keyblade and her Light had touched another in a way that changed his life.

Following Sora's eyes, Mickey looked to see another keyblader making his way down. Just as Mickey he appeared to be non-human. It was great to see new keybladers coming for the exam, especially those who's hearts were surrounded by Light. Letting Sora make the introduction, Mickey awaited for the boy to introduce himself before ambushing him with foreign names.

(Yeah I guess I can do size 2 also. xD)

[kairi]

[[OOC: Well, this is the first time in forever I have switched my font. xD;]]

Her head tilted to the side, and her eyes flickered down to the necklace she now wore. It hung loosely against her chest, below the pearl drop necklace her grandmother had given her. Both were among her most treasured possessions, and the thought of not having the necklaces on her was just not an option. Laughing a little at the surprise evident in his voice, she merely shook her head. "Of course, silly," she chided with a bright smile. She had kept it with her throughout everything that had happened to her for the past few weeks, and it had helped her get through some dark moments within her heart. [Quite literally.] The Princess was feeling much better than she had in so long, and that also worried her a little. Seeing her friends brought her relief and joy, and that was more than enough for now. She did wonder if anything bad would happen during this test. Nothing had happened as of yet, and so Kairi just allowed herself to revel in the present. "It's okay, Sora. You have people that need you, and I have my own path to follow. We'll meet up again at the crossroads, like this one," she reassured gently. She was glad he had kept her charm safe, and hoped it really did bring him good luck. If there was one thing her ordeal had taught her, it was the strength of her friendships, and that she could believe in her own strength, too.

A small giggle escaped her at the King's sudden bashfulness, but the Princess made no move to point it out. It only made her think that everyone was connected, and some things just happened for a reason. The memory had only just recently come back her, as most of the little bits and pieces of her childhood in Radiant Garden were. Her meeting with the King had only been for a few brief moments, but enough for her to recall a familiarity to him when she had met him again in The World That Never Was those few years ago. "I know, but I'm still grateful for that. My memories have only begun to come back, too," she replied with a distant look. Kairi could remember always brushing off Riku and Sora's comments about what her past had been before arriving on Destiny Islands. She had been happy with her new home, but now she wanted to know more. Perhaps she would go back to Radiant Garden after this. Sora's question about the Unversed had not gone unnoticed by her, but that was not something she was ready to admit to as of yet. The Princess just needed a little more time, and maybe this test would help her.

The sound of the train caught her attention, and so she turned around. Oceanic eyes flickered to the new arrival as he made his was toward them. This was not a Keyblade wielder she had met before, and so her lips curled into a sweet smile at the stranger. Meeting new people had never been much of a problem for her. Clasping her hands behind her back, the Princess watched as Sora was the first to introduce himself, which was not new. She instead allowed herself to study his rather different appearance, which reminded her somewhat of King Mickey. "I'm Kairi, and it's really nice to meet you," she introduced kindly. Who else would show up for this test? Perhaps Riku? Kairi really did hope so, because she had not seen her other best friend in quite some time. When would this Mark of Mastery even begin? The thought filled her with anxiety and excitement, because it was sure to be interesting in some way.

[Deleted]

[bg=e6e6e6][atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellpadding,0,true][atrb=cellspacing,0,true][atrb=width,600,true][atrb=cellpadding,20px,true] all is lost again, but I'm not giving in The young man watched the three of them with a blank stare, as if studying them. One thing was obvious they all knew each other, and pretty well from what he could tell. Great, now he couldn't help but feel as if he had intruded on something. Maybe that message he got that told him to come here was nothing more than a mistake. Sure he got the call, but maybe it wasn't for him. Though that was when he then noticed the smile from brown haired teen as he welcomed him, at first saying nothing as he introduced himself. The blank stare still in his eyes. Especially when he heard this Mark of Mastery thing. What in the world was that? He just stared, even as the red hair girl introduced herself. That paranoid part of his mind telling him that there was almost something he couldn't trust about any of them. Though that was probably due to his low opinion about non-humans, and any who associated themselves so friendly to them. Though he supposed they could be different. After all not all beast were bad right? There are to be some world where they weren't so cruel. He hoped. "I-it's Night," he said nervously, averting his amber eyes from the trio. This would be so much easier if the mouse wasn't here. He may not look as threatening as the monsters from his world. But to him he was still a monster. "What is this Mark of Mastery you asked about? Is that the reason why I feel was called here?" he questioned, since the message he got wasn't all that clear to him. Honestly he didn't understand why he was here. He just felt a call, though the whole reason why was very unknown to him too. Hell, he didn't even know who these other people were. ------- Notes: YAY ALL MY COMPLAINING ABOUT SIZE 1 GOT THROUGH!

[/justify] [/blockquote]
[/td][/tr][/table] [/center]

[deshitana]

Snow had moved from Twilight Town to the Keyblade Graveyard to pay her respects to her dear friend. It was shortly after paying her respects that she had been attacked by the shadowy beings called Heartless. While she was having a blast fighting the swarm of Heartless, her session was interupted unexpectedly as a vine of light and dark blocked the Heartless and created a portal before her. Taking a step back, so she was no longer in a fighting position, she heard a whisper from the darkness within telling her "it was time". Time for what, the young woman did not know.

Understanding that these particular vine portals only appeared to take her somewhere important, she accepted the portal's invite and stepped in. Before she knew it, she was snatched away from the Keyblade Graveyard and released onto the strangest world she had ever been. A sky similar to Twilight Towns, but full of stars instead, was above her and all around an area of grass and bushes. Not too far from where she was there was a strange tower reaching towards the heavens. The scene was odd and a little unnerving to Snow. While she was use to new worlds, this was one seemed to hide itself from her.

A strong magic protected the place.... Impressive. Anyway, Snow took a step forward looking at the tower, she could sense others already there. All radiating with Light. The amount of Light that came from the group made her tainted scent easy to pick out, but this was nothing that bothered the keybearer. This area had let her portal carry her there, so she assumed she was not seen as a threart. But why bring her here?

As she stood before the tower, she heard people talking and turned to see a small group gathered. A boy with spikey hair, a red head girl, a mouse, and a strange child that held a familiar scent. Night...that was his name no?

In any case, Snow could hear the group introducing themselves. Sora...Kairi, and of course Night. So that left the mouse and herself. As she was listening, she heard the words 'Mark of Mastery' and felt her heart stop. Mark of Mastery? She had heard that phrase before from her friend and had been told it was a way to prove that one was worthy of wielding the keyblade. Looking away from the group, Snow moved her keyblade to hold within both hands.

She had gained the blade through a dream and after proving hereslf against the Heartless, the blade had stayed at her side. Was gaining it and the fact that she could wield it not enough proof that she was worthy of the keyblade? What more needed to be known about a person in order to gain the right to be called Master of such a weapon? What exactly was being tested? Mind, body...or the heart? With questions floating through her head, Snow lowered her keyblade and looked back at the tower. Would her answers come today or just more questions?

[Master Eraqus]

Prior to everyone else arriving, Master Eraqus was the first one invited to the tower. Yen Sid had sent him a letter about having another Mark of Mastery exam and Eraqus was one-hundred-percent OK with the idea. It was one of his thoughts when he learned what had happened throughout the worlds, all of its dangers... and Xehanort. The Master waited peacefully inside until the others had settled down. He wanted a handful of Keybladers to appear before he started the exam, and hoped Terra would be there. Regardless, a handful or not the test couldn't start without Master Aqua. Perhaps Ventus would be there too, and if all of their hearts were in balance his students would be able to finally ascend to the level of Master. Although that fact didn't make him bias to the other Keybladers that were out there. He just really wants to see his students succeed, especially Terra.

Eraqus took a few steps towards the doors that led to the castle grounds. It gave him a quick flashback of The Land of Departure and the test he proctored to Terra, Aqua, and Ven. Raising his hands forward he slowly opened the doors to view quite a lot of Keybladers. He took this moment to look around the area, his eyes grazing past all the Keybladers in hopes to spot out Terra or Ventus, but it seemed they hadn't arrived yet. For a moment he closed his eyes and put his right hand over his chest, hanging his head down. Terra, I know you're out there. Be safe, my son. With that thought processed his eyes then snapped back open and his head was up high, taking another look at the Keybladers before him.

He had seen a couple of familiar faces, not counting Master Yen Sid. They would be Yen Sid's apprentices and Sora. Quite the crowd if I say so my self. He chuckled to himself as he slowly made his way down the stairs. He even saw some unfamiliar faces and among those a species he couldn't identify, but he was sure it wasn't an Unversed. The Master made his way toward Yen Sid and placed his hand on his shoulder. "It's been far too long, friend." A smile was traced upon his lips, seeing that a former comrade was temporarily returning to Keyblade Mastership. "Once Master Aqua gets here, we should begin." With that said to Yen Sid he had hoped Aqua would be delayed. Not because he didn't want her at the exam, he just didn't want Terra to miss such an important day.

His attention was then given to the group of Keybladers that stood before him. "Today you all will be apart of the Mark of Mastery exam. This exam will determine if you are ready to become a Master of the Keyblade and will bestow you with secrets and the duties of a Keyblade Master. I will make note that no one shall be able to take the test if they arrive late. It should also be known that this test isn't about who is better than another, nor about winning, it is about truths of the Heart. All of you here today, and soon to be arriving Keybladers, will either pass or fail. There have been tests in the past where no one has succeeded, even a large group of people such as yourselves. The test will begin shortly after Master Aqua arrives. That is all."

[Deleted]

The Station of Awakening that had appeared to be a dream to the future Keyblade Masters had been a nightmare to this young warrior.

Selena wasn't sure of why she had answered the call or even how she even got the message from what it seemed to be from the weak little candle her own Heart held. The dark keybearer wondered if it was because she wanted to meet the other keybearers and she did; or if it was because of redemption for a crime she had yet to commit. There was a third reason the cloaked keybearer had yet to think of and that was 'acceptance'. To be accepted by others who also wielded the same blade even in different forms and by the people of her home world who had hated her for her destructive power, the status of 'Master' had never appealed to her until now when she was finally given a chance.

Since her Heart had chosen the side of darkness, Selena had used a Corridor of Darkness to arrive at Twilight Town. Something about the seemingly never-ending sunset had given the young woman nostalgia for the first strange world she had been to when she was a nine year old child. However, her memory couldn't picture the world perfectly and the only remnant of the memory that it could could uncover was the perfume of white lilies.

After a short walk, the hooded woman had found the train station and boarded the train after she had paid for her ticket. The ride itself seemed to be uneventful and Selena had spent most of the time just staring out the window to the changing scenery. Despite her seemingly emotionless expression, the dark keybearer was both nervous and scared of the outcome of the upcoming challenge. What if I fail right away? Would I get rejected before I could even take the exam because I have darkness?worried Selena as a wave of nausea caused by her own nervous thoughts had momentarily taken over her and she instinctively rested her head against her knees that she pulled up onto the cushioned seat and almost hugged close to herself. The dark warrior was glad that the train had stopped at her destination (Excuse the pun.) a few minutes after.

However instead of getting off, Selena stayed in her current position to relax herself for a seemingly long minute before moving her legs off the cushion and slowly standing up to prevent her nervousness from taking a level she certainly didn't want it to reach. As the hooded keybearer walked down the aisle to reach the exit of the train, she glanced towards the windows and saw that a 'large' crowd had already arrived. When Selena exited the train, her ears had only caught the words 'The test will begin.' and 'That is all.' from a voice that seemed to hold both kindness and authority. The dark keybearer immediately thought she was late.

"I apologize for being late..."answered Selena as she slowly pulled her hood down to reveal a pale face framed by raven hair and a faded scar across the left side of her forehead from a certain Remnant done by the thorn of her own keyblade. She glanced at everyone in the crowd for a familiar face that had first seemed to her was a futile hope. The dark keybearer recognized the unforgettable Sora and the young woman with the pearl-drop pendant seemed familiar. Other than those two, everyone else, even the mouse, were strangers to her and her first instinct screamed at her to don't trust them all but her Heart shushed it down.

It's time...mused the cloaked woman silently as her emotionless eyes glanced at each keybearer and felt her own wings tensely flatten against her back as she slowly walked a few steps into the crowd to hopefully distract herself with conversation that would be inevitable. So yes, Selena did doubt that no one would allow her to stay 'unsocial'. This was a gather of keybearers after all.[LT:Within Temptation - Overcome]

[ventus]

The Mark of Mastery Test. Another had finally rolled around.

An armor clad Ventus skidded through the Lanes Between on his skateboard like Glider, thoughts racing through his head. While in his own mind the last test had only taken place a short time ago, in the reality of things it was the exact opposite. But no matter how long it had been, Ventus was still excited one way or another. Another test meant another chance for Terra to finally fulfill his dream! Perhaps even himself! The thought weighed heavily on his mind. While happy for both of his friends, Ven was still technically too young for the test.. While time had ticked away while trapped in a comatose sleep and without a complete heart, his age had not budged by one day. He looked and felt exactly the same as he had all those years ago. But in all technicalities he was much older than what his body showed. None the less, joining in the test or not he'd be more than happy to watch and cheer on his friends as they worked towards their goals to becoming true masters.

The excitement grew as he drew closer and closer to his destination. So much that he nearly flew his Glider directly into a passing meteor. "Watch where you're going!"The young Chaser called after the giant hulk of rock, barely maneuvering his way around it. After quickly regaining his train of thought, Ven continued back on course as planned.

There it was. Yen Sid's tower. He'd been here once before. The Star Shard he had found had forcefully taken him there. And here he was again, several years again. A smile spread widely across his helmeted face as he wondered who had already shown up. Aqua and Terra? Hopefully! Well, Aqua had to be here.. He had hoped Terra would be as well. Sora, the boy who had helped him several times? Surely he would be there. And what of that guy he had met at the Keyblade Graveyard? Maybe he was here too.. Mickey and Master Eraqus were surely here as well. It was like one big reunion.

As Ven finally arrived, he saw a few familiar heads peeking up from the mass. From the distance he could pick out Sora, Mickey, and Master Eraqus before landing his Glider. There were also several people he didn't know here.. Well, new friends were always nice right? Right! His Glider vanished in a flash of light as his keyblade returned to his hand. "I hope the party didn't start without me!" The armored Chaser called over to the rest of the group. As he took a step towards them his armor began to clanked. Oh ya.. Perhaps normal attire would be more appropriate. With one swift motion he had raised a hand and tap his shoulder with his palm. Another show of lights quickly came and went as Ven was left standing with only the one piece of armor attach to his arm, the rest of his attire back to normal.

As his eyes glanced over the crowd of Keybladers, he failed to see either one of his friends. "Are.. Terra and Aqua not here...?" Disappointment dripped slightly from his tone. He had really hoped to see them already here.. And if Terra wasn't already here then there was a chance he'd miss the exam.. The very thing he dreamed about would be gone and all because he was a little late. Realizing that there were others among them who had not met the spiky headed blond, he quickly began to introduce himself. "Oh! Sorry my name's Ventus, for those of you who don't already know me! But you all can call me Ven!"

[Terra]

Terra felt something calling him back to this twisted tower. In fact, he still wasn’t sure what it was, but something was telling him he needed to come back and see Yen Sid. Sure, the elder master was wise upon all his years, but what would require this kind of attention? He was sure that this feeling was probably nothing at all, but a second look told him the inside of the tower was a lot more crowded than the outside. He couldn’t quite tell who, but he could feel several forces gathered near the entrance to the tower. Maybe this is why he felt the urge to come back to the Mysterious Tower.

So that was it, Terra knew that whatever was happening at the tower was definitely the reason he decided to take to the tower and meet with the elder master once more. Terra took his time walking towards the tower, as he wanted to be sure to catch the figures off guard if they weren’t with the Light. His senses weren’t as adept as Yen Sid or Master Eraqus’s, but they were good enough to tell people were here. He just couldn’t tell their allegiance.

To Terra’s surprise, when he came into sight of the door, many familiar faces immediately greeted him. The first one he saw might as well have been considered his father. Master Eraqus took Terra in at a very young age, and, if it weren’t for the combination of the darkness in Terra’s heart and Master Xehanort, he wouldn’t have lost his being in the first place. Terra would always regret that decision, even if his master and mentor stood before him once again.

The next face he saw was the tiny mouse that he’d only seen for a moment the last time he came to Yen Sid’s tower. He quietly decided that he must be nearly as wise as Yen Sid himself after all these years. Standing next to him was a small group of a duck, dog-like man, a brown haired boy, and a redhead. He knew the brown haired boy as Sora, and he also knew that Sora had done so much to protect the worlds in these last few years, and he couldn’t help but feel grateful to all that he’d done.

The next person was also a keyblader. The last time Terra had set eyes on her was in the canyons of the Keyblade Graveyard. Artemis had found her way towards Yen Sid’s tower as well. It seemed as this was turning into a union of keybladers. There’s only one thing that could bring so many keybladers together, and that was a Mark of Mastery test. Could that be it? Could Terra have wondered into a second chance to gain his title of Keyblade Master. Sure, Master Xehanort gave him that title, but that obviously couldn’t take with his deception and all.

Terra walked next to the final person he recognized and rubbed his left hand through his spiky blond hair. His ‘little brother’ had also made it to the world, and Terra couldn’t be happier. They were all together, and together they’d all become Keyblade Masters. Terra finally looked up to Yen Sid himself and acknowledged his presence.

”I hope I’m not too late. Hey Ven, where’s Aqua?”[/b]

[Sora]

With a content smile, Sora nodded in acceptance to the King, grateful for his well wishes as they were finally reunited after all this time. "Thanks, your majesty." he acknowledged, but after he had spoken with Kairi and pocketed her lucky charm for safekeeping, he couldn't help but notice his downcast glance. "Is something wrong...? he asked with some concern, his heart reaching out to his friend, not knowing what was on his mind but didn't want to see his friends upset in any way. He wasn't sure what the King meant by the connection that he hadn't made before... but, he guessed since Kairi was tight-lipped about it and so was he, that it was something maybe he'll never know. That it was just a special connection between himself and Kairi in their friendship, a memory only they shared, and Sora didn't want to intrude on that if if was none of his business and it made it any less than what it was.

He looked to the most important person in retrospect, as she mollified him about wearing his pendant, and that it was alright they had to go their separate ways. Sora nodded, perhaps a little sadly; he remembered when he had given her that pendant, and how melancholy she had seemed at the time. "It's just... I don't know what I was thinking. It looks better on you than it does on me, that's for sure... thank you." he smiled sweetly, his thoughts returning to why he had given it to her, and the journey she had decided to go on her own. She knew the journey he had to go on, but he didn't know anything about hers... but, he would respect her wishes that she didn't want to tell him. As long as he was assured now she was safe, and that she was with him now, it didn't matter if she stated there would have to be another crossroads they would have to separate for once more.

He wished he could have spent some more time with her, just the two of them... this would have to do for now, until the next time they would meet.

Trying to wipe away his own saddened expression on his face and just enjoy the moment while it lasted, while they were so fleeting, he turned his attention to the wolfish humanoid that they had just met. His name was Night, and he asked about the Mark of Mastery, to which Sora could only meet with a naive, blank expression. "Well, ah..." he cut off, looking to the King for answers, then back to Night. "... Your guess is as good as mine. The King here just informed me about it before I got here, so maybe we'll all learn soon enough what's going on." was all he could answer, shrugging just a little. He hated to look like an idiot in front of Kairi... but she knew he was a lazybum and a daydreamer at times, but that's what she liked about him. It didn't mean he was stupid or ignorant in any way... he was curious of the answers himself, and he just didn't know them yet as much as anyone present... save perhaps the King himself.

Suddenly a portal appeared, and yet another newcomer arrived unexpectedly, as more people wielding the keyblade started to come. Sora widened his azure eyes in surprise as he watched a young woman appear before the tower, who gave them some short notice before looking back at the tower. Sora raised his arm and gave her a friendly wave, just so she would feel more welcome, and not so shy to talk to people who could soon become her friends. "Hi there. What's your name?" he casually called over, trying to be a bit more hospitable, and of course never missing a beat to make a new friend. Kairi and Mickey would expect that, of course... but Sora couldn't help it. It was in his nature to try and make a friend rather than make an enemy, and perhaps that's why he was the key to everything, that he just found it so natural and easy to be the center of the connections he made with new friends he just met.

The next person to arrive was someone that he had already met, as he watched as Yen Sid nodded solemnly to him - Eraqus was a imposing and tactful man, Sora found, who had a strong and commanding presence. He knew little about him, apart from the fact that Aqua knew him, so he couldn't be bad... right? And that he also was a keyblade master, the title he took quite literally, as he seemed to have some authority over Aqua. As he made his entrance which felt like the examination was about to officially go underway, he listened to his impassioned speech, and took away from it key words he had focused on as he turned back to his friends. "If this test is about truths of the heart... then I know you guys are going to pass it, with flying colors." he encouraged sincerely, looking between the King and Kairi, giving them both a secretive smile of assurement from knowing theirs both so well.

He wondered as he looked around where Aqua could be, and he heard the voice of another female keyblader, this one he also had met before. "Hello, Artemis." he greeted casually once more, remembering the one time they had crossed paths in the world of the Heartless. He didn't know her very well, and she seemed so... dark in both appearance and personality, but she had fought by his side against the Heartless so she couldn't be bad either... right? He wasn't sure, but he gave everyone a chance to do good even if they were guilty of being one of the bad guys once before... that much he and Kairi had to forgive with Riku.

Where was Riku? He was hoping he'd see his best friend by now, but...

His thoughts were interrupted when a familiar voice - eerily familiar voice, in more ways than one - came as suddenly a Keyblade Ride flew in from the starry sky, and from the armored figure on top came the spitting image of... his very own Nobody. But, it wasn't Roxas... getting used to the Keyblade Rides as transportation paled in comparison to the infamously familiar blond face before him, and he looked to Kairi in the hopes of sharing a look with her that she felt the same way too. Even if it was matched with one that mollified or even empathized with him how he felt, to be looking at someone so familiar to them both, that presently here only they knew what he looked like. Looking back once he read her reaction, the male looked back to the other spiky-haired male, trying to figure out why he looked like an identical twin. His voice... he had heard that voice before in his far-off dreams, which like all his dreams he had difficulty recalling lately... was he the voice I heard of that light within mine? He wondered this to himself as his hand touched his chest over his heart, considering maybe this was why Roxas looked the way he did when he emerged from him, and hoped it would be a while before Ventus had to be told another person out there that looked like him was waiting for Sora. "Hey, Ventus." he said, in a friendly way but with a hint of uncertainty as he adjusted to his presence, smiling at the thought that they had rescued him from Castle Oblivion as his friendliness rivalled even his.

As if that wasn't strange enough that he expected Ventus at any moment to jump out of character, and say in Roxas's persona that he was just joking around, the keyblade barer known as Terra entered the area. Sora took a good look at him, remembering him as the strange man that came to the island when he was just a little boy, and talked to Riku in a private conversation Riku wouldn't share about. But, there was something more than that... there was a strange sense of deja-vu he seemed to get whenever he looked at Terra's face, something about his eyes and his hair that was familiar at certain angles or expressions that he just couldn't place. He could swear he had seen Terra somewhere before, though, but the answer again unspoken at the tip of his tongue, in that foggy haze on the outskirts of his memories that slipped out of reach. "Heya, Terra." he greeted the older male for the sake of the others to learn, shaking the feeling of uncertainty off, and hoped once that Aqua got here... that the answers would be explained.

[aqua]

Aqua ran out of the train as fast as she could, she was never late to anything, she was always the responsible, punctual one. Now here she was, late to the Mark of Mastery exam that she was going to help conduct. The young Keyblade Master knew Master Eraqus and Master Yen Sid just had to be furious.

As the large group came into focus, Aqua noted that it was a rather large crowd, and she mentally kicked herself for her tardiness. No, Aqua, you are not late, she told herself, everyone else is simply early.

Lies.

How did she end up being the last one to arrive, anyway?

Well..

***

Aqua had arrived in Twilight Town way before anybody else, and was content to wander around to pass the time. The azure-haired keybearer let her mind wander as well- back to the day of what was probably the last Mark of Mastery exam conducted before this one, over ten years ago. What should have been a new beginning was instead the beginning of the end, filled with bitter resentment... Terra should have gotten the title of Master too, and maybe if he did, he wouldn't have... and if only Master Xehanort hadn't been there, maybe the exam wouldn't have been sabotaged...

Aqua laughed at little at herself, placing her hand over her heart- she had spent years dwelling on memories and now she was finally free and was still thinking about the past. What's done is done, after all. She knew she should be more focused on the future, on today's exam. Aqua had been told there would be quite a few keybladers showing up... hopefully all her friends would be there. The young keybearer would make her friends Masters in a heartbeat, but she knew she couldn't do that, she had to remain unbiased.

While musing, Aqua hadn't noticed she had made her way to the sandlot. and was thoroughly surprised when she heard the wooshing sound of a dark portal. Turning around, Aqua noted the white creatures with zippers for mouths. They were called Nobodies, apparently. Like the Unversed, they were quick, but there was a broken-ness to their movements, a bit like marionettes. In a quick fluid movement, Aqua had swooped around behind one and brought her keyblade down upon it. The blue-haired young woman kept this strategy up, not phased by the multitude of creatures showing up. They were monsters of the in-between, and this was a world of the in-between, it was only natural for them to be attracted to it. Also, as a keyblader, it was naturally her job to get rid of them. What did phase her, however, when the clock struck at the new hour and the bell from the large clock tower rung loudly throughout the city. Aqua gasped- she was late for the exam! Whacking some Dusks out of her way, Aqua took off at a run towards the train.

***

Catching the sight of Master Eraqus, Aqua slowed her run to a dignified walk, trying to look as responsible as possible and not tardy in the least. She looked around, blinking her cerulean eyes in surprise at the number of keybearers here. She recognized most of them, and smiled at her friends, old and new. "Hey Sora, Kairi, Mickey, Artemis..." Aqua said and turned her head to give an especially warm smile to her two closest friends, "Terra, Ven."

She nodded in hello to the other two keybladers she didn't know, and would have loved to find out who they were and introduce herself, but she had stalled the exam long enough. Standing next to Eraqus and Yen Sid, Aqua calmly gazed out at the crowd. She looked over at her Master and Yen Sid, knowing what her arrival meant. The Mark of Mastery exam... could finally begin.