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Post by kairi on Aug 21, 2009 21:19:14 GMT -5
Another sunny day upon Destiny Islands. When was it ever not sunny? Kairi giggled slightly at the thought, and began to walk down the familiar path to the beach. Her lips were curled into a smile as the warm rays of the sun hit her face. Another lovely day, and she could find nothing to do. Not that there was never anything to do, but she was bored at the moment. Riku and Sora had disappeared, and she had no idea where Selphie went. "Sora and Riku are in for a piece of my mind," she muttered. Her smile disappeared, and her blue eyes lit at the prospect of torturing her two friends. The two were an obvious negative influence on Kairi.
Kairi laughed to herself, and pushed a lock of hair behind her ear. Well, at least it was a nice day, so that had to mean something good~! Her feet soon met the crunchy sound of sand, and her eyes widened in surprise slightly. Kairi had been so wrapped up in her thoughts, she realized she was now at the beach. She laughed at her absent mindedness. "I need to pay more attention. I'm turning into Sora," she replied, another laugh resonating from her mouth. She walked down the beach for a few minutes, soon stopping close to the water. She knelt down, knees right under chin, and Kairi stared at the clear azure water.
Kairi sighed after a few quiet moments of peace. She really should get back, but she could never tire of the peace Destiny Islands brought. Of course, this had also been where their adventures had first taken place. Her fingers danced lightly over the clear water, barely brushing the surface of the clear ocean. How serene this setting was, and how she would never really tired of it. This was her true home, despite how she did enjoy visiting Radiant Garden. At least she was safe here, and no one chased her where Sora and Riku were. Pink lips parted, and a yawn escaped her lips. Azure orbs flickered to the bright sky above her, and she wished someone was here to keep her company.
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Post by roxas on Aug 21, 2009 21:54:00 GMT -5
Destiny Island - one of the last true escapes.
It seemed that the darkness and the Organization had trickled into every other world, and yet Destiny Island remained somehow almost entirely untouched. Sure, it had its past with the darkness, and had been used before by the Organization and the Heartless for various reasons, but all in all, the world remained peaceful, serene, and a true escape from the reality of what was occurring in so many other worlds. Perhaps it was the lack of any true gain from taking over the world that kept most evaders away...but it was just that lack of 'excitement' that drew one blonde keybalder to the island's shoreline.
So much had happened in such short time that it was beginning to overwhelm the young Nobody's mind. He had returned to an existence separate, and yet coinciding with his Somebody, and event that had been deemed 'impossible,' rejoined the Organization, which had somehow aligned itself with the Light until Xemnas himself had re-emerged as well, and now they were back on the path they had been on once before - the path that had led to the Organization's very destruction, and that of everyone in it. It had been decided by XIII and his two closest companions, VIII and XIV, that they would remain part of the Organization this time, working from the inside rather than on their own. And then there was the matter of the Key of Destiny's assignment from the Superior himself to work alongside the Whirlwind Lancer to once again capture the hearts of the worlds' most powerful beings, turning them into Heartless and aiding in the second creation of Kingdom Hearts.
All of these things, plus many more thoughts revolving around his relationships with Xion and Namine, and well as with Sora, and the question of his still impossible existence were weighing heavily on the blonde, and Roxas had known that if he had not been able to seek some level of solitude, even if only for a few hours, he was likely to have a reaction he would regret in the future.
Thus, Roxas found himself dragging his boots unnecessarily through the sands on the beach of Destiny Island, his bright eyes aimed at the ground before him as he slowly walked, mostly unaware of the world around him. He was not certain why he found himself so drawn to this world in particular - and at the same time, he knew exactly why, though he was unwilling to recognize the truth. This was the place that gave Sora that feeling of peace that Roxas was so desperately searching for, and thus he found the island peaceful as well. And though the blonde wanted to believe it was for another reason, a reason that belonged to Roxas himself and no other, he knew that was far from the truth.
Suddenly, a sound pulled Roxas from his own thoughts and his feeling of solitude, and his gaze snapped up from the ground as he stopped his trudging short. Blue eyes snapped in the direction of the water where he had distinctly heard a light splash, and the sound of a soft voice - perhaps even a laugh - and his gaze fell on a lone figure knelt near the water's edge, clad in pink. The Nobody blinked a few times as he stared in silence at the female figure, wondering why he internally felt a calming, almost comforting feeling wash over him as soon as his eyes had fallen on her small frame, and then...he remembered. It was her - the girl he had been able to somehow communicate with through her heart during his time in digital Twilight Town, the girl that meant so much to his other...what was her name?
Kairi.
A voice within Roxas' mind seemed to whisper the name, and then he felt it softly escape his lips, barely audible - "Kairi." For a moment, he wondered what she was doing here, before remembering that this was her home - she had more of a right to ask that of him, then he did of her. As Roxas' boots remained firmly planted in the ground, he considered simply summoning a dark portal before she realized he was there and simply leaving, unwilling to bring his troubles on another person, and uncertain what to say to her, anyway. He had never really spoken to her face-to-face, but...she was connected to Namine the same way he was to Sora, right? Or...something like that at least, it was never something the blonde really liked to consider - it made him feel less real.
However, despite what he knew was his better judgment, XIII felt himself strangely drawn towards the girl on the water's edge, and he felt his feet suddenly closing the distance between the two of them until he was at her side, also kneeling near the water's edge, about three metres away from her. He slowly pulled off one of his gloves, mimicking her action of running his fingers along the surface of the cool tide as it washed in near his boots, his gaze focused out on the distant horizon. "Calming, huh?" The words were soft ones, a simple question, but Roxas was uncertain what else to say to this girl he was so connected to...and yet felt so distant from at the same time.
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Post by kairi on Aug 21, 2009 22:57:18 GMT -5
The young Princess was immersed within her thoughts.
So many things were happening that she could barely keep up with. Several beings of darkness were already after, whether as leverage as some sort, or just for the fact she was a Princess of Heart. Kairi hated what she was at times, wondering if it were possible that even she could possess a darkness of some sort. Even if her heart was pure, her thoughts could be dark. Such things worried her, as those insecurities could be used against her. Her fears, her desires, her anger. Everything could be used against her. The vibrant spark in her eyes died for a moment, and that same anger ate away at her. Why could she never be strong enough? Why was she always left behind?
Angry tears suddenly stung her eyes, and she felt surprised.
Kairi lifted her head, her hands suddenly lifting to her eyes. Fingers gently brushed against her eyelids, and as she pulled her hands away, she could see the tears. Why was she crying? Really, the reasons were so selfish and petty, but maybe it was alright? She was usually thinking of others before herself, so maybe it would be okay to cry for herself? So many questions, and the young Princess still did not know how to feel. The day was bright, her friends were about, and she was sitting on the sandy beach crying. How the irony of the situation did not escape her, and yet it did make sense. Her auburn locks slid across her cheeks, and Kairi wished she could hide the tears some way. At least no one was around, right?
Oh, how wrong she was.
Her figure visible stiffened when she sensed the sudden aura. [How had she not sensed it before?] It was familiar, though, and she relaxed for a moment. Until she realized that she was still crying! Furiously, Kairi wiped away the bitter tears that stung her eyes, but it was too late. Cheeked flushed, and her eyes reddened, anyone could tell. Then again, the young Princess had always looked pretty when crying. Inhaling deeply, Kairi looked up, and she felt her breath catch. For a moment, she almost thought it was Sora, but it was not the Keyblade Master. It was someone she had once talked to within her dreaming mind, where her heart had connected with his. And now the Nobody was kneeling next to her, his fingertips barely touching the serene waters of the ocean.
Words escaped her.
Roxas was his name. Kairi had met him briefly in person when in The World that Never Was. A gentle smile crossed her lips, happiness suddenly bubbling within her. Company had come, and though it was not someone she had ever dreamed of appearing, Kairi was glad. Even if they had not really talked before, she felt the connection, the sensation of being drawn to the quiet blond. "It is now," she replied with a smile. How nice it was to be near to someone she knew so well, and yet she did not. He almost appeared like a visage that would disappear at any moment into the flitting breeze. The Princess shook herself from her reverie, wondering if she had come off as odd. That would not be the first time. Kairi felt more comfortable with his presence near, more at peace with her earlier emotional outburst.
"What brings you here, Roxas?"
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Post by roxas on Aug 22, 2009 21:09:23 GMT -5
So, she remembered his name as well. That was a good sign at least - he supposed he had been vicariously around her a lot recently, after he had rejoined with Sora. But all of those memories, those familiarities, they were Sora's right? Not his...so Roxas was uncertain if they really counted, or if he was willing to consider them as 'real' or not. However, the short time that he had connected with Kairi...that was real. That was a memory uniquely Roxas', and uniquely Kairi's, a single moment suspended in time, somewhat of a fateful meeting between the blonde and the girl with auburn-esque hair. But at the same time...speaking to her almost felt like it was a perverted version of reality. Kairi was the Somebody, the original, the one that was meant to exist in the first place...and now here was Roxas...a Nobody.
So why did he feel such a connection to the girl?
Maybe he should not assume much more than the face value that his name was easy to remember, he thought to himself. Sure, it was nice to have the thought that she remembered him, but then - what was his name other than simply an alteration of Sora's name? However, Kairi had even forgotten the brunette's name at one point...and she had remembered it through Roxas. So maybe it did have more significance that the blonde was almost willing to allow it to have. Just...maybe.
Roxas glanced sideways at Kairi when she asked him the very question he had guessed would come up between them. Whenever their equally blue eyes met, XIII could not help but notice that the girl before him had been crying - and recently, from the look of her face, her reddened cheeks still a bit wet, though it appeared she had tried to mask that, and her slightly strained eyes themselves. The Nobody's eyebrows scrunched together a bit in something between intrigue and confusion - what reason did she have to be crying? Perhaps something had happened that the keyblader didn't know about yet...he had only spoken to his Other once since his return, after all, and Kairi had not been much of a topic between the two. Or perhaps it was something deeper, something more on the inside - more like the struggle that Roxas himself was having, masked to the rest of the world, and yet always on the verge of escaping. Perhaps the Princess of Heart had let a bit of it escape in the form of tears before Roxas had interrupted her.
At the thought, Roxas' eyes quickly snapped back to the distant horizon, focusing on the blurred line where endless water and endless sky seemed to tease one another about who would be victorious in the end, who would truly be everlasting. He had acted rather selfishly when he had approached her, not even considering that she may have been seeking solitude herself - that was actually what the Nobody had been after anyway, wasn't it? And yet he had broken that to approach the girl...without even considering whether or not she wanted t be approached, least of all by him. Roxas could not even begin to imagine how Kairi saw him...was he nothing more than an abomination of Sora in her eyes? And his connections to the Organization that had tried to hurt her so deeply...none of that seemed to shed a positive light on him. And yet, he had been unable to ignore that drawing feeling that he had felt instantly tug at him the moment he had recognized her...
"Hopefully not being a bother to you," Roxas finally replied as an answer to her question, not wishing to unload about his search for solitude and all those things that seemed like nothing more than selfish whims to the Nobody now. He withdrew his hand slowly from the cool ocean water, watching as a few drops clung to his fingertips for a few moments before they their determination to remain airborne was defied by gravity, pulling them back to the water's surface and sending out the vaguest of ripples. "You've been crying." The words left the blonde's mouth slowly, softly - it was not a question, just a statement of fact, an observation perhaps. But he said it nonetheless.
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Post by kairi on Aug 22, 2009 21:48:42 GMT -5
How silly and selfish she felt.
Here Kairi was crying over things she could not really change, when she had so many things to be grateful for. She had her friends, and her life was rather quiet and peaceful for the moment. And now she would be able to finally meet Roxas for the first time. Well, to actually talk to him, rather than through the connection she had experienced with him. The idea of someone there to keep her company was a comforting thought, even if she still felt hurt and bitter. Was it right for a Princess of Heart to feel that way? Yet another question that would be left unanswered. Kairi had little idea of what she truly wanted, but she knew she would like someone to see her as an equal of some sort, not as a tool. That was what she had been used as, though. First as a way to open the Door to Darkness, and then as a leverage to use over Sora. It only brought turmoil to her.
And yet here Roxas was.
Perhaps rather similar to her in some ways. Searching for something he did not quite know the answer to? Maybe that was why she was drawn to him, as she had always been to Sora. She did wonder why he was out here so far, though. She would think that he would be in Twilight Town, or another world of more familiarity and action. Or maybe he just wanted to get away from it all, and just have some time to whatever thoughts he held. Kairi wanted that as well, but she hated to be alone, truthfully. Her friends meant the world to her, and as confident and outgoing as she was, she felt lost without anyone there to help her. Anyone there to lend her strength, or to just be there for her. Solitude was nice every once in awhile, but she had been by herself ever since she had come back to Destiny Islands just to escape. While this would always be her home, it felt nothing like one without her friends.
Azure orbs flickered to the bright blue sky. Fluffy white clouds, the scent of the salty ocean, and the sweet summer breeze against her skin. The epitome of paradise, and still it felt nothing like it for her. Kairi folded her legs to the side of her, and she placed her hands upon her lap with a small smile. She still wondered if she looked like she was crying. Most likely so. Glancing to Roxas, she saw him looking to the horizon. Someone was there, even if not someone she knew. The fact of his allegiance, or that he was Sora's Nobody, really did not mean much to her. [It never really had.] Namine was her other half, and she loved the blond artist dearly. Kairi would do anything for her, and while she may not have been real to begin with, Namine was real to her. Just as Roxas was, and everyone else within the worlds.
A content sigh escaped her.
Her attention returned to the Nobody, and she looked up at him. A smile crossed her lips, and she shook her head. "No, not at all~! I'm glad you decided to keep me company," she replied warmly. Well, even if that had not been his original intentions, she was still glad he was here. Kairi watched as he withdrew his hand from the water, and she nearly missed his next statement. He had noticed she was crying? A somber smile crossed her lips, and Kairi looked to the horizon, where the sky met the ocean. "I have," she answered simply. Unsure whether to share her feeling, the Princess let the silence fall between them. So many reasons why she had been crying, but why? Even she did not quite know. That sad smile continued to flicker on her lips, and she closed her eyes, enjoying the breeze upon her cheeks.
"I'm not happy. I feel lost."
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Post by roxas on Aug 24, 2009 20:19:49 GMT -5
Roxas' brows furrowed slightly as he listened to Kairi's explanation - she didn't try to deny that she had been crying, like he thought that she might try to do. Instead, she had simply given him a bit of an explanation as to perhaps why, though it was not one that the blonde fully understood, and he was willing to let that confusion show through in his features. At least she did not seem to mind his company, but...what did she really have to be unhappy about? And what did she mean by saying she was 'lost?'
But then, what did Roxas really know about the auburn-haired girl? He had to admit to himself that no matter how much of a connection, a drawing, that he felt towards her, he still knew very little about who she was. He had spent considerably more time with Namine, and with Xion, but to assume that Kairi was simply going to mirror them would be to take on the mindset that he was nothing but a mirror of Sora, which was not exactly the truth - and not a mindset he appreciated being developed by anyone. So...maybe she did have something to be unhappy about. Just because the girl had a heart did not mean that the only emotion she would ever feel was happiness, after all - that was something that Roxas had to continually remind himself about. Yes, he was a 'special case' amongst Nobodies and did feel happiness, sadness, anger, etcetera - but somewhere in the back of his mind, he couldn't help but wonder if having a heart would make him happier in the grand scheme of things.
Seeing Kairi in this emotional, seemingly distressed state was a sad reminder to the Nobody that that dream was quite far from reality.
Roxas remained silent for a few long moments after the Princess of Heart had spoken, his gaze drifting back out to the sea with his thoughts. After those few moments had passed, though, he slowly rose to his feet, closing the distance between them from a few metres to only a few inches before sitting back on the ground at her side again, sitting with his knees pulled up to his chest, his arms wrapped around his shins, and his chin resting on his kneecaps. He could feel the tide brushing against the very hem of his cloak, but didn't mind getting a bit wet - it was only water, after all, and the steady sound of the water was soothing to him. "Yeah, I guess we're all feeling a bit lost right now...everything is a bit crazy," Roxas then finally said, allowing a light chuckle to escape his lips at the end of his statement before a smile smile appeared on his lips.
It was a statement that was not only true, but that XIII hoped leant the girl some level of comfort. After all, she was far from alone if she were indeed feeling 'lost' - Roxas himself felt that way, uncertain of what he wanted any more, or what to do about the Organization, or Sora, or his other friends. Everything had gotten more confusing instead of simpler as the days went on, and though the blonde was fairly certain that Kairi probably had different problems to deal with - though some could easily be the same as well, he added to himself - that didn't make them any easier to bear. After all, though sometimes he felt like the only one dealing with issues, he knew he was far from the only one affected by the current times. And the realization that other people were bearing their burdens as well? It just made them seem more...well, more like something he would be able to handle. Others managed to, after all...
"But...they can't stay that way forever, right?" Roxas then added in a bit of a lighter tone, glancing sideways out of his peripheral vision at the girl, his eyes now smiling to match his lips. "I mean, sure things might seem...disheartening now," the word came out a bit painfully for the Nobody, but he used it nonetheless, "but it'll get better...as long as we don't give up hope."
For a moment, Roxas considered the fact that that almost sounded more like something his Other would say than him, but there was always going to be a bit of Sora within him whether he wanted there to be or not, right? He could never escape that - and he needed to hear those words just as much as Kairi probably did.
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Post by kairi on Aug 25, 2009 12:03:06 GMT -5
Maybe she had said too much?
Kairi felt it was rather easy to speak her mind to Roxas, but maybe that was because of the connection she felt toward him. Shaking her head, she tried to keep that separate. Just because he was the Nobody of Sora, that did not make Roxas the Keyblade Master. Despite physical similarities and personality traits, both were rather different. While Sora was cheerful and so energetic, Roxas seemed quiet and contemplative. Instead of running right into a situation, he would think things through first. The Princess wrapped her arms about her knees, curling up within herself. How unlike her this was. No energy or cheerful smile upon her face.
Oh, how hopeless she seemed.
As strong of heart she was, was she not allowed to have some moments of weakness? Kairi was tired of so many things. Of running, and of always having to look over her shoulder. Of having someone save her at each and every turn. The fire that burned so brightly within her was starting to dim and die. Azure orbs had lost the spark and life, and she felt like an empty shell. Closing her eyes, at least she could take some comfort that someone was here. Kairi hated to be seen moping around and depressed. It was so unlike her, but at the same time, it was not. Maybe she had no darkness in he heart, but she was still only human. Susceptible to dark thoughts and emotions, but she was strong enough not to act on them. Strong enough to always see the light, and keep that within.
Maybe it was not enough anymore.
Opening her eyes, she turned her gaze toward Roxas, watching as he moved to sit closer to her. A smile crossed her lips, though it did not quite reach her ocean blue eyes. She finally noticed the garment he was wearing. An Organization Cloak? From what she knew, Organization XIII were allied with King Mickey for the moment, but that was a thought for later. Kairi knew Roxas would not hurt her, and she trusted him. Looking back to the horizon, she felt so tired at that moment. A small smile flirted her lips as his next statement. Yes, thing were getting rather crazy, and maybe it was getting the best of her. The Princess so honestly wished to stay positive, but it was so hard to in these darkening days, but she knew she had to. Being strong would be the only way to beat the darkness, and still remain herself.
Glancing to the side, Kairi noticed Roxas was doing the same. His words had a ring of truth to them, but it was hard to believe. Perhaps things would get better, and she smiled a bit more brighter than she had before. Hesitantly she rested her head upon Roxas' shoulder, hoping she did not seem forward, but maybe it was just her seeking a little comfort from someone. "Thank you."
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Post by roxas on Sept 1, 2009 21:29:06 GMT -5
[OOC :: Gah, didn't mean to make you wait so long for this reply >< BUT I got ahead on school work tonight, so I wanted to make sure I got to this one!]
For a short moment, whenever Kairi's head first made contact however lightly with Roxas' shoulder, he felt a chilling sensation sweep through his body, quickly followed by an almost burning feeling in his shoulder where her head rested. It was a feeling that surprised the Nobody considerably when it first occurred, and he was certain that he had unintentionally tensed, but it lasted mere seconds before he was able to regain control, suppress the feeling, and relax once again. What had caused that feeling...? It seemed somewhat familiar, and yet entirely foreign - but then, that was Roxas' feelings regarding Kairi in general, wasn't it? Something about her seemed so incredibly familiar, and yet so...new at the same time. But then, perhaps he had simply not been expecting her touch.
At the same time, though, XIII knew it was something deeper, though something he was unwilling to - perhaps even afraid to - pursue further, at least not at that moment.
Rather, Roxas relaxed once more, scolding himself internally for almost making the situation unnecessarily awkward - or worse, making Kairi feel bad about an action that was probably meant out of something at least close to friendship - and offered a bit of a lopsided smile. "No problem," the blonde then said as an unnecessary reply, his voice barely above a whisper, like speaking any louder would break the moment as it hung in the air - really, it was unnecessary, and yet he felt like something had to be said in response to her thanks nonetheless, and he couldn't think of anything else.
With that, the blonde's gaze was drawn once more to the ocean for a few long moments, before he finally, slowly, laid his arm lightly around her waist. He could not shake the feeling of protectiveness that he felt towards the Princess of Heart, whether it was because of her connections to Namine, Xion, and maybe even Sora that brought the feeling out in him, or something else, but whatever it was...the feeling was strong. With the action came a flash in his memory of himself and Xion in a similar position sitting on the clock tower in Twilight Town, but he quickly pushed it away, telling himself this was different...right? The keyblader's shoulders rose and fell slowly as he inhaled a deep breath of the salty air, then slowly let it out, relieved at the feeling of calm he felt spread through his body at the action.
Really, he had been letting his thoughts get so complicated lately - and it didn't seem to really help anything, either. Maybe he should be a bit more like Axel sometimes, more laid back....or then, maybe not, now that he thought about it a bit further. The thought almost made him laugh, but he managed to keep it to himself.
"So what happens now?" Roxas heard his own voice ask, breaking the silence before even thinking about the words that were actually coming from his mouth. He still kept his bright blue orbs focused on the distant horizon. He decided against elaborating any further on his inquiry, rather letting Kairi take it how she wanted - either about herself, about their situation, about the darkness...about anything. He wasn't even sure of the answer himself, not regarding him, nor anyone, but he was curious to see what the girl had to say...how she took the question, what her response was. For a moment, however, he almost regretted saying anything, but at the same time...he didn't. Looking for answers - that was what he always found himself doing, even though he only seemed to end up with more questions...
All the while, the Key of Destiny's arm remained around the girl's small frame, the position feeling more natural the longer he remained in it...and somehow, it felt right now that he had done it. He found himself hoping that the Princess was at least starting to feel a bit better despite everything - he was not so naive as to think he could fix the girl's problems, hardly, but companionship could still heal, and in times like these...every little bit counted in the end when there was often so little to be found.
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Post by kairi on Sept 2, 2009 10:05:45 GMT -5
The Princess wondered if she had been too bold.
Kairi could feel Roxas tense beneath her, and she bit her bottom lip, hoping she had not offended him in some way. Maybe she was being too personal? Affection was something that the Princess was accustomed to with many of her close friends, but could Roxas be considered that? She had conversed with him only once, and she had not even really met them when that had happened. This action felt right to her in a way, though, as so little things seemed to be these days. Maybe it was because of his connection to her and Sora, or maybe it was something else. The whole thought was beginning to give her a headache, and she just wanted to numb herself from such worrisome thoughts. It seemed Roxas had relaxed, anyway, so maybe he had just been surprised was all.
Smiling lightly, the Princess glanced up at the blond. She was glad to see him smiling as well, and her oceanic eyes seemed to grow brighter at the thought. A content feeling washed over her, something she had not really felt in awhile. Maybe companionship was what she had needed, but it was hard to talk to anyone who could relate to her. Riku was always gone, and so was Sora. Maybe her luck was looking up~! Roxas was here, and she was very grateful at that fact. His barely whispered words caught her attention, and she smiled once more, continuing to lean her head against his shoulder. Allowing her gaze to roam, she followed the endless horizon before her, feeling so small in comparison. Closing her eyes briefly, she enjoyed the feel of the ocean breeze upon her skin, and the salty scent that clung to the air. Destiny Islands was truly a beautiful place to live, and she was glad that this was her home.
Her oceanic eyes flickered open when she felt Roxas slip his arm about her waist. Surprised, but not at all upset about the action, she smiled lightly. It was comforting to her, and she merely leaned a little more closely into the keyblade wielder. Everything seemed to be so natural, and she could not help but feel safe near Roxas, the same emotions she felt whenever she was with Riku or Sora. The smile still stayed upon her lips, and she closed her eyes once more, not entirely sure why she felt this way, but that was alright. There was hardly a need to question such things, as some of the best gifts in life happened without rhyme or reason. Content and happy with this moment, Kairi hardly remembered why she had been crying earlier. The Princess was just being too emotional was all.
Kairi slowly opened her eyes once more, and she glanced up at Roxas. His gaze was upon the horizon before them, but his question could be taken in so many ways. Her expression turned pensive, and she slowly let her gaze wander back to the never-ending ocean before them. What would happen now? So many answers, but none really seeming to fit. A smile crossed her lips, and she looked to Roxas once more with a more cheerful expression than previously. "I don't really now, but I'm sure that whatever happens, everything will turn out how it's supposed to be in the end," she replied. Her answer was as vague as his question, but it was the only response she could think that was true. Whatever happened, she was sure all would turn out how it should.
Content with her own answer, she rested her head upon his shoulder once more. Kairi was feeling much better now, glad that she had run into Roxas. Curled up against him, she really did hope he did not mind too much. It felt natural in a way to her, and she wondered if the blond felt the same way. Well, either way, she was happy. The Princess just allowed her gaze to continue to wander of the horizon, watching as the sky and ocean finally met.
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Post by roxas on Sept 5, 2009 18:34:23 GMT -5
Roxas' faint smile grew a bit more distinct as he felt Kairi lean into his side a bit more, and he did feel like he was protecting her a bit - from what, he wasn't exactly certain, but the 'what' didn't matter so much as the fact that he was doing it. Maybe it was just another thing that he found that he had inherited from Sora, something that he did purely because it was what Sora would have done - but the blonde wanted to think that all of those things were by his own choice as well. He wanted to be here with Kairi, like this, right now, and not just because it was what Sora would have chosen to do. No, this was what Roxas wanted. Did he have that right? Perhaps. In his brief discussion with his Other the brunette himself seemed to think that Roxas has the right to exist on his own and make his own decisions - and really, if Sora believed that to be truth, what was holding Roxas back?
It should have been nothing. But it wasn't.
Roxas' eyes flickered shut as he tried to ignore that tugging feeling in his stomach that something was wrong, instead focusing on the conflicting feeling he felt that this was right. For several long moments after Kairi answered his question, XIII just remained silent, listening to the steady sound of the tide as it washed in and out over the sands of the shore, listening to the slight rustle that a light breeze created from his cloak, and listening to the light sound of Kairi's breathing mere inches from him. Everything seemed so natural, so innocent and peaceful, soothing, melodic...unbreakable, despite the truth that the Nobody knew that it was so far from that. But for now, he could focus on those steady sounds, evenly spaced out, never ceasing, just going on and on without thought. Was that...was that what a heartbeat was like? Maybe.
"Yeah," Roxas finally replied softly, opening his eyes slowly as he forced himself to face the world around him once more, bringing himself and his thoughts back to reality as he processed what the Princess of Heart had actually said. "The way...its supposed to be," he then repeated before his shoulders rose and fell in an involuntary sigh. That was a nice way to look at how things would turn out, he supposed - they would happen the way they were meant to. But then, did that mean what happened before was fate as well? If so, then fate was cruel, and the fact that it was now dangling a second chance in front of those who probably didn't deserve it, and who were peaked on making all the same mistakes again, made Roxas think fate also had a twisted sense of humour, or justice, or whatever one wanted to call it.
"Things are gonna be different this time, Kairi," Roxas then stated, a determined edge creeping into his voice as he spoke, though his tone still remained soft - with her ear so close to his face, there was no need to yell, after all. "It will be the way its supposed to be, like you said - the right way." Even as he spoke, the grip the blonde had on the girl's hip tightened a bit with his words, almost trying to pass his confidence on to her through their connection. Did Roxas even believe his own words? He had to. Again, he was stuck with a flashback of his conversation with Xion on the clock tower - his words to her had not been much different, and his feelings...were they similar as well? He was uncertain whether that was a relieving feeling, or a troubling one. However, back to his statements of confidence - they were ones he had to believe, lest he lose the hope himself that he was trying to pass on to Kairi. And if not even he believed his own words, why should she?
And XIII found himself very much wanting her to believe him.
After what Organization XIII had done to her previously, after what all the darkness had done to her life...Roxas found himself not wanting to be associated with that in her mind. No, this time things had to turn out differently - he couldn't be selfish. Things were going to change, for better or for worse...but change they would.
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Post by kairi on Sept 5, 2009 19:35:03 GMT -5
So peaceful and melodic.
Kairi could hear the gentle push and pull of the tide, her own steady breathing, and Roxas' as she leaned against him. Comforting and safe. So familiar to her, and not entirely. Her brows furrowed for a moment, and she questioned her own actions for a moment, wondering if they were right. It did not matter, this was what she wanted, right? Even if it was confusing and a bit out of the blue, Kairi felt at ease. How silly it was to just question what simply was. Everything would fall into place as it should, just like this moment. Reasons and motives thrown away for the moment, Kairi simply reveled in what it felt like to just do something for the sake of doing so. No rhyme or reason. Because, in the reality of things, life was so much better if one took chances. Bad or good, sometimes that blind leap of faith was worth it. Content with her thoughts, she glanced to Roxas.
He was silent.
Biting her bottom lip for a moment, she wondered if she had said the wrong thing. His eyes were closed, and he seemed to be thinking rather hard. Hardly wishing to disrupt his thoughts, the Princess looked to the horizon. The sky was beginning to tinge with a dusky pink. Was it becoming late? It had been so bright when she had first come out, but time passed by so quickly. It was alright to her, since she was enjoying herself. Maybe Roxas was confused, like she had been. He had a right to be, since this did seem so unusual, but it felt right to her. Emotions were such a wonderful and complicated thing at times. Her heart seemed to beat just a little too quickly. Biting her lip once more, she glanced to the side, seeing his arm still wrapped securely about her waist. Did she really mind this? Kairi smiled lightly to herself, knowing that she did not. Thing happened that were supposed to. Even if unexpected.
His voice nearly startled her.
Peeking up through her lashes, oceanic orbs flickered to the keyblade wielder. He did not seem utterly content with his words, but she supposed they did have a double meaning to them. Good or bad, life would happen. Everything happened for a reason, and sometimes the results were not what Kairi liked, but all she could do was make the best out of it. Choices made that could impact one decision, and like wise. Perhaps this moment was one of those times? A smile graced her lips, not really displeased with anything that was happening, Quite the opposite, really~! Life was rather funny at times. When one door closed, so many more opened, and choices were always theirs to make. Outcomes, possibilities, choices. All fit together in the some way, and it was ever changing. The Princess was happy, though, and that was all she could really ask for.
Glancing to him, another smile curled on her lips. Roxas sounded sounded so determined, and she could not help but feel that way, too~! "They will be, Roxas. Even if it gets hard, we'll make it through like we have before," she spoke firmly, oceanic orbs sparkling brightly with life and light. His grip about her tightened, and she leaned against him more comfortably in response--on instinct, really. Sometimes, it was hard to believe that there could be a good choice to a situation, but if one looked hard enough, a positive could come out~! Kairi could sense his hesitation, his doubt about his own words. The thoughts that plagued his mind, and she slowly lifted her head a fraction, tilted her head in his direction. "Even if you doubt yourself, and maybe when you're confused, too, just don't lose sight of your light. It will always guide you~!"
And Kairi wanted Roxas to believe her words as well.
The Princess smile once more, oceanic orbs glittering brightly. Maybe she had been losing sight of her light lately. She should follow her own advice. Things would change, for better, for worse. Even if Roxas was working on a different side, as she could tell from the iconic cloak he wore, it did not matter~! Even in darkness, a light shined. After all, the light shined more bright in the darkness.
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Post by roxas on Sept 8, 2009 20:54:10 GMT -5
It seemed that perhaps Roxas' words had indeed had some sort of positive affect on the Princess of Heart, because suddenly she was the one that was making the optimistic statements instead of just the Nobody. But then, she could just be lying to make him feel better - that was not what he had done to her, right? He had meant what he had said...right? - but her words somehow seemed so sincere, so innocent, so honest. And Roxas could admit that he wanted to believe in what she said, believe that there was still light in the world that they could hold on to, hope they could cling to, and in the end - things would turn out 'how they were supposed to.'
Or maybe the Princess was simply glad for the companionship. XIII certainly was.
Roxas glanced sideways and downwards at the girl at his side, the corners of his mouth playfully pulled upwards in a slight smile. What he felt...it just had to be emotion of some kind. But that brought up the debate of whether he had a heart or not, a debate that seemed to be long-running throughout the Organization, whether it was a subject addressed directly to him by those like Axel, or whether it remained whispered amongst other members, whether they knew he knew or not. And though not even the keyblader himself really knew the right answer to that question, and could not give a certain explanation either way - one thing he did know was that moments like this made him certain that he felt something, something more than the other Nobodies claimed to feel. And for now, that had to be enough.
Roxas was learning to appreciate these small moments the hard way. He knew all too well that they tended to not last for very long.
"I think you need to listen to your own words, Kairi," Roxas then answered, his tone far from unkind - actually, it was on the verge of teasing, even though he was quite serious about what he said. Whether or not he had actually gotten through to her with his assurances a few minutes earlier or not, if she was saying these things now, then, well, she had to believe them. Or at least, that was what the Key of Destiny was telling himself - and perhaps it was time to remind her of that. For some reason, it really pained the blonde to think about this girl crying again, feeling lost and confused and alone - he knew all too well how those feelings felt, and didn't want to wish them upon anyone...but her least of all.
What was that feeling...?
Quickly, Roxas forced himself to continue, not letting his thoughts go any further down that path, not allowing himself to continue to consider that question lest he find an answer he didn't know how to deal with. "Sora always manages to hold on to that light. We just need to do the same - he can't keep saving everyone on his own forever, after all." In one sense, the blonde was uncertain as to why he had brought up his Other into the conversation from which the other boy had basically been forgotten - Roxas had felt like up to that point, Kairi was perhaps actually seeing him for himself, rather than simply as an extension of the keyblade master, as everyone else seemed to see him. Or at least, that was what he wanted to believe she was seeing him as, however selfish that was - he wanted this to be more than just something brought about by Sora like everything else seemed to be...
Or did he? Roxas tried to tell himself that he had mentioned the other boy because he really was a good example, and it was just part of the natural flow of the conversation. Sora did, after all, have an uncanny way of being able to always stay so close to the Light no matter what, and that had to be inspiring no matter how one looked at it. But deep down inside...XIII knew exactly why he had mentioned his Other's name. He was watching Kairi's reaction, and he knew it was not something that could be ignored forever - he had to remind himself that Sora existed whether he liked it or not, and in situations like these...
However, the blonde could not ignore the slightly bitter taste he felt in his mouth after the words had left it. "Even he's not that powerful," he then added softly, his voice dropping a bit once more. Jealousy - was it possible for the Nobody to feel that? Perhaps. But why was he feeling it now? Simply because he was never able to be as optimistic as the other keyblader, and he wanted that? Or was it connected a bit closer to the present moment...Roxas' gaze turned slowly to Kairi once again, and as he let out a deep breath he didn't even realize he had been holding, he watched as the artificial breeze he created with the action blew a few wisps of her auburn-esque hair out of place. The Nobody's hand left the girl's waist then for a few moments as he smoothed the loose strands of her hair back into place before he replaced his hand where it was, though his touch as a bit lighter than before. His eyes then quickly snapped downwards, watching the tide wash in right to the edges of his boots with a focus that made it seem like the water was the most interesting thing he had seen in a long time, his cheeks a bit flushed.
"How long has it been? Since you've seen him, I mean. Sora." XIII knew adding the name onto the end was unnecessary, but he felt compelled to do it all the same. His gaze never lifted even as he asked the question, and he waited in silence for the Princess' answer, showing neither curiosity nor indifference, but something in between. With his free hand, Roxas began to draw absent circles in the sand at his side, satisfied simply with the small movement to give his mind something else to focus on - something easier to understand. Circles in the sand...the only simple part of XIII's reality.
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Post by kairi on Sept 8, 2009 23:36:22 GMT -5
He seemed hesitant to her.
Kairi tilted her head, and she wondered why. It was so hard to really understand what on in his head, as he seemed so complicated and out of her reach. Roxas had done things she could never really understand, and she could accept that. The Princess did not know the Nobody all that well, though it felt so different to her. Natural, and if she had known him for most of her life. Especially in this close position, feeling his body heat radiating from the iconic cloak he wore. The feelings made her feel safe and happy, something she was not entirely sure should be right, but the emotions were there nonetheless. Why did it matter? Kairi was happy, and she wanted to hold onto the feeling, for everything she was worth. She was comforted, and she did not doubt what she was feeling, or what this situation might mean. A thought struck her, though.
What was this emotion that seemed to grow in her heart?
How very strange, and she looked down, feeling her beating heart against her chest. It seemed to move just a little faster, and she felt a lightening in her stomach. Oceanic orbs flashed with confusion, but she did not feel weird about it. It was...enlightening. Was that a good word? Kairi thought so, but she could not be entirely sure. She wondered if Roxas was feeling the same way. Even with her heat to allow her to truly feel, emotions were always a complicated and finicky thing. Ever changing and so overwhelming at times. The girl glanced back up to the boy by her side, and she could see the slight quirk of his lips. Feeling rather shy--unlike her--she smiled back lightly. A giddy sort of elation passed through her body, and the Princess was rather surprised at the sudden revelation. Perhaps what she was really feeling was--?!
His words startled the Princess.
Looking to him with wide eyes, Kairi quickly recovered, laughing lightly. Roxas did have a point~! She really should follow her own advice, but sometimes it was just easy to lose sight of hope and light that she should feel. Sometimes, the darkness was just easier to embrace, but she knew she should never lose herself. Kairi may have been a Princess of Heart, but she was still herself. Confident and cheerful, but even she could feel doubt and sadness. Human was what she truly was, and negative emotions did not escape any one person. It was easier to make sense of that somehow, and she had Roxas to thank for that~! Maybe Kairi had just needed someone else to tell her that, to help her realize that situation could get better, and that she could be stronger. A smile curled on her lips, and truly felt at ease with herself. With her surroundings, and with her own future.
Looking out to the ocean, it was so serenity filled, and she almost felt the urge to go swimming. Oceanic orbs closed, enjoying the breeze against her cheeks, though a surprised expression crossed her features as Roxas mentioned Sora. Her brows furrowed, and her eyes opened, and she wondered. The Princess wondered why he had brought up his other, but maybe she should have been expecting it. Maybe he thought she was not really seeing him as just Roxas? Or maybe he was just mentioning Sora because it seemed appropriate--and just a bit convenient. Glancing to the side, she allowed herself to smile just a little. He did have a point, though. "Yeah, you're right. Sora does manage to hold the light," she murmured. Looking away, confusion crossed her face, and though she felt that fondness for Sora, it seemed lessened somehow.
No, was she--?!
Shaking her head, Kairi put those certain feelings away. She had not seen the Keyblade Master for some time, and she would leave her thoughts right there. Aware that Roxas was watching, she looked away. Unsure and hesitant was how she now felt. It was unnerving to the Princess, but sometimes things just happened beyond control. Kairi wanted to get a certain point across, though. Perhaps her feelings toward Sora were confusing, but she did not want Roxas to think that made her views about him different. Looking to Roxas, her gaze was stern and determined. The boy so close to her was not a replica of Sora, and maybe he was connected to his other, and maybe they shared traits, but that did not make them the same. "Roxas, I don't think of you like Sora. You're two different beings, and I see you for yourself, just like Namine is different from me," she spoke clearly.
A smile crossed her lips, reassuring him that she did view him as his own person and being. Just as whole and complete as she was. As his breath stirred the tendrils of her hair, her oceanic orbs widened a fraction. Feeling his hand leave her wrist, she could see his fingertips inch closer to her, brushing the tendrils away from her face. Her pale cheeks darkened, and Kairi realized she was holding her breath. As his hand slid back down her waist once more, she quickly looked away as Roxas did so. An exhale escaped her lips, and she realized her heart was beating furiously. Blushing, she stared at the ocean, her mind still whirring from the sudden action. Biting her bottom lips for a moment, she wondered what had just happened between them. Kairi could not say she minded, and that she had enjoyed it.
The blood rushed to her cheeks again.
Kairi hardly registered Roxas' question, but she had heard him. Taking a few moments to process what had been asked, she slowly shook her head. "Not for awhile. I know he's alright, though. I just want some time to search for myself, and maybe find what I really want in this life," she answered calmly. Slowly, Kairi lowered her head back onto his shoulder, leaning against Roxas once more. Maybe it was still odd, but she felt safe. Safe and comforted, something she could understand easily.
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Post by roxas on Sept 12, 2009 21:31:33 GMT -5
Roxas hadn't even had to voice aloud the fact that inside, he had been debating whether or not Kairi simply saw him as an extension of Sora like most of the rest of the population did. Somewhere deep inside of him, he had always known that she had seen him as his own being, even if it was just in a small way - after all, she had her own connections to Namine, so Roxas could assume that Kairi understood better than most the relationship between a Somebody and a Nobody. However, despite that knowledge, the blonde had still harboured the concern that Kairi was simply acting and feeling as she was now out of feeling a connection to Sora through him, and not because of anything he had actually done.
And yet, she had just told him that that was not the case.
Of course, Roxas knew that his connection to Sora did have something to do with it, whether either of them was going to admit it or not, just like how he felt had towards the Princess of Heart had something to do with Namine. After all, that air of familiarity, like he had known her longer than he actually had - that had to come from Namine, right? But still...Roxas knew firsthand that a Nobody and a Somebody, though they did share some traits both physically and in personality, where still two different people. And thus, there had to be something more behind this...there just had to be. Right?
And yet, even as that thought crossed XIII's mind, something that had to be a feeling of guilt suddenly rushed through his whole body, leaving a chilling feeling that set the hairs on his arms on end under his cloak. He was being selfish with those thoughts and he knew it, but did he really want to change that? Sora probably would, he thought to himself...but then, he wasn't Sora, right? Wasn't that the point that he was trying to make in this entire debate? So then, maybe this was wrong...but...at the same time, it made Roxas feel truly alive like few other things could. Those feelings, both the sweet and the bitter that were accompanying this entire situation - he was drinking them in, already feeling addicted to the way that they made him feel. Did he really want to stop that just because it might be 'wrong?'
But if he didn't - did that just make him the same level as the others in the Organization that he didn't want to be grouped with?
"I'm glad at least you can see that, Kairi," Roxas finally spoke, both to respond to Kairi's statement and show his gratitude for her words, and also to get his mind focused back on the present, back to Kairi, and back to their conversation together. "I guess there are some ways that I want to be like Sora, some things I might even envy him for," XIII paused for a moment there, drawing in a deep breath before ending with, "but I still want to be my own person." For a single moment, Roxas considered adding a thank you of some kind on the end of his last statement, but decided it was both unnecessary and awkward. Besides, he assumed that Kairi could already tell that he was grateful for her words - that was enough. No need to draw any more attention to it than what was already obvious.
When Kairi settled back onto his shoulder once again, again the small smile tugged at the Nobody's lips absently. He felt a sudden peace gently settle over him, and for that he was thankful - his thoughts began to slow a bit, even, and as he lightly rested his chin on top of Kairi's head, breathing in a scent that was a mixture between her, and the salty-sweet smell of the ocean in the air, he found himself able to relax, even if it was only a little bit. "Yeah, I've seen him once. He seemed okay," Roxas then replied, his tone a bit more wistful than previously, giving the rather heavy subject a lighter feeling.
"And...I guess you'll see him again soon."
Those words the blonde added even softer, even more wistfully - and he almost regretted them once he had said them, but the damage was already done. For a moment, his body tensed up, but after a few short seconds he relaxed once more, closing his eyes. Living in the present - it was what he was trying to do. For once, he wanted to not be asking himself a thousand questions with impossible answers, and always seeing the realistic side of things. No - he just wanted to keep drinking in this moment, just a little while longer....selfish of him or not. "Besides, I don't think he has anything to worry about," Roxas finally concluded with, opening his eyes as he settled his chin on her head a bit more firmly as he gazed out of his peripheral vision towards the captivating water.
Had he noticed out of the corner of his eyes that her cheeks had flushed a bit earlier? Maybe. He doubted that her expression had been that far from his own, though. But that was one thing he found himself not regretting. After a bit of silence between the two, Roxas began to move both the conversation and his thoughts away from Sora almost as abruptly as he had brought them up. "I've never really taken the time to watch the ocean before. Its...nice," the Key of Destiny said, his voice a bit emotionless, but still friendly. "Peaceful..." he then added in a softer tone.
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Post by kairi on Sept 13, 2009 0:13:27 GMT -5
Emotions were such a confusing thing.
Her oceanic orbs stared out onto the endless waters. Her heart was racing just a little, and her cheeks still felt warm, even against the ocean breeze. Why was she feeling this way? It was so easy just to think of it as a connection to Sora, and maybe it was, but not entirely. Kairi was not so vain that she would treat Roxas in such a way, like he was nothing more than a copy of Sora. He was much more than that. His own person, with his own thoughts and feelings. His own dreams and hopes. Was she being fair, though? This whole situation, when she did not know the Keyblader all that well. It felt right, though. As natural as breathing to her, without any rhyme or reason. Something she liked to feel. Without reason or logic to guide her actions, but just how she felt with her heart. Oh, she could just feel the headache beginning to form!
Was it selfish of her?
Biting her bottom lip for a moment, she wondered if it was. The Princess wanted to be, though. How utterly ignorant she was being to everyone around her, but she was so tired of being in the background waiting. This was what she wanted. ..Right? Kairi nearly groaned at the complicated emotions, and everything just felt so odd and comforting all at once. Why was this so easy for her to do? Kairi continued to stare out to the ocean, so absorbed within her own thoughts. She wondered if Roxas was thinking the same thoughts she was. A definite possibility, and one she did not really wish to think about. She had to wonder, though. Was he feeling the same way she did about this whole situation? Kairi glanced at Roxas from the corner of her eyes, and he seemed to be in deep thought as well. At least she was not the only one.
His sudden words sent a gentle smile curling on her lips. Glancing up to him, her expression warmed. Of couse she would never see him for just Sora. It was an unjust and unfair way to view things. Just because Roxas had been created because of Sora, did not mean he was Sora. He was similar, of course, but there were so many things that were different. No, she had not known the Nobody that long, but she did not have to. Roxas was more quiet and thoughtful to her, and perhaps a bit more tempermental, if he was angered too much. Sora was cheerful and instinctive, always following his heart before his mind at times. Shutting away those thoughts once more, the Princess focused her attention back upon her companion. "I can understand that, but just be who you want to be, and not what people think you should be," she murmured.
Letting her thoughts fade away, she relaxed.
Kairi felt him rest his chin upon her head, and she moved closer to him without a thought. Just as natural as breathing, and as easy. Oceanic eyes moved to the water once more, and she felt her racing heart begin to calm, her raging emotions begin to fade away. So very peaceful, and she inhaled. The scent of the ocean, the breeze, and perhaps the leather of his cloak? So very relaxing. His words sent a vague sense of relief through her. Sora was alright, and that was what was important. Everything would turn out as it should be, and she felt like she was drifting. Kairi felt her eyes begin to close for a moment, and between the lull of the ocean, and the warmth Roxas exuded, she had almost fallen asleep. Pink lips parted as she exhaled softly, barely between the world of dreams and of reality. His words brought her back from dreaming.
Yes, she would see Sora again.
"I guess so, too," Kairi whispered. There was no need to really speak too loudly, with him so close beside her, and her own thoughts wavering into dreams. Let herself enjoy the moment now, and the future could wait. Tired was she of thinking so much of the future, when all she may have was the here and now. Happy was what she was, and the Princess did not regret a thing. Selfish, happy, and very comfortable. The ocean was endless, and she wished this moment was as well. But she could enjoy it while she had the chance, and it could last awhile longer. His words took her aback for a moment, but just for a moment. There was really no answer she could give, so she kept silent. No, she supposed Sora did not, but she was happy. A gentle smile crossed her lips, feeling him rest his chin on her head more firmly, and she curled up into his hold more closely.
Once again, she felt her cheeks heat up, but it was alright. How everything looked so beautiful and serene, as it always did. Destiny Islands was always a wondrous sight to behold. A small laugh escaped her--happy and light. "I never get tired of it. I could sit here forever, and just watch the ocean," she murmured. Kairi felt herself drifting again, but she kept herself awake. Just to enjoy this moment for as long as she possibly could.
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