Kitty's point of view

Location Time Chamber

With a racing heart, my eyes shot open with a gasp as I tried to take some deep breaths to calm my nerves. That premonition really... REALLY needs to be a possibility only... When looking ahead of me, I could see SP on one knee giving a glare towards something as he seemed to be angry. Or maybe it's just more annoyance he's feeling. Is there a word that combines both? Annoygry?? Eh, that will work for now. Following where he was looking, I was almost startled when I saw Maleficent sitting nearby.

Maleficent: Well, look what the startled cat woke up to.

Kitty: If anyone had to see your face as soon as they wake up, anyone would be startled.

Maleficent: Is it because how "enchanting" I am?

Kitty: What magic mirror has been lying to you about that?

Maleficent: Hmph... Your sarcasm certainly hasn't lost its sharpness.

Kitty: Thank you for the compliment~

Maleficent: Charming...

Kitty: Yeah, yeah. Anyway, what do I have the "pleasure" of dealing with you for?

Maleficent: I would have spoken to you sooner when waking you up, but a sudden sense of danger was felt around me as if something threatened to approach you while you slept. Even now... I still feel it.

Kitty: Oh right. It's okay SP, you don't need to worry right now.

Maleficent: Who...?

Kitty: Someone from the power disks your little villain group kept using on us...

Maleficent: Ah... I see... Well, if you're awake now, could you tell it to back off? I mean no harm when trying to communicate here.

I looked at SP and gave a small nod to show it's okay, no danger here. He still seemed annoyed, and I can't blame him at all, but relaxed enough it didn't feel too dangerous to speak.

Kitty: Okay, you're good. Now what do you want?

Maleficent: All I was just observing you. Just keeping an eye and watching over you as you rested.

Kitty: Uh-Huh... That's not creepy at all...

Maleficent: And you don't wish someone to make sure you were safe?

Kitty: And you decided to do that because....? It just doesn't seem like something you would usually do.

Maleficent: Like I said, merely observing you. You were mumbling in your sleep.

I groaned, cursing my luck on how that would happen to me.

Kitty: Thanks for adding that embarrassing fact...

Maleficent: At least you weren't Aurora when I was trying to curse her with death when she turned 16.

Kitty: For not being invited to a party? Yeah, that's a mega grudge, especially cursing a BABY.

Maleficent: And yet, I felt wrongly accused just because of my title. Let me ask you this, how would you feel if you weren't invited just because you were half beast?

Kitty: Hey, I'm not saying it's wrong to be upset about the lack of invite. But seriously? Bringing in Aurora who wouldn't even understand what was happening?

Maleficent: And yet, just because of how I look, people want to call me "Evil Witch"? You rather listen to others before listening to who is being accused of anything first than hearing the other tale.

Kitty: HEY! I still helped you even after what you did to my friend! I'm not seeing you as the "Evil Witch", which is honestly a stupid title anyway.

Maleficent: The only reason I did it was not out of evil intentions. It was merely to awaken the latent power of someone. Never did I imagine it would make them go berserk in Darkness.

Kitty: "Berserk" is one way to put it... What DID you think would even happen doing that?

Maleficent: Observing the battles you all have had, I figured I could help in tipping the scales for all your favors. But never did I think that would happen.

Kitty: That was really just to help us...? That's... Unexpected.

Maleficent: When people paint you to be "Evil", sometimes, it's just easier to do what people think you are meant to be...

Kitty: Not everyone sees you as evil. Riku sure didn't.

Maleficent: Even so, it doesn't excuse me of all I have done...

Looking at Maleficent, she seemed to... Become sad??? Am I sure I'm not still dreaming???

Kitty: Are you... Feeling guilty...?

Maleficent: What else am I supposed to feel? With what our common enemy is capable of? I'm merely a twig. I only have my magic and no physical means of fighting back. Keeping my distance and using other resources is the only thing I am capable of... And because of this, I only have one that has yet to even return that does not know what has happened. Even though the oaf is clumsy and idiotic. But he was the first that has been the most loyal these past 10 years.

Kitty: Who's the oaf that's been with you for 10 years?

Maleficent: Someone who used to live on the same world as the Kings lackies. A burly big cat-man that goes by the name "Pete".

Kitty: Pete? Wait, he's a CAT? Huh, I always thought he's a dog.

Maleficent: That's what I thought too, but then he corrected me when I asked him that.

Kitty: This just gets weirder and weirder each day...

Maleficent: Which part? Agreeing with the witch, or having a fun conversation with said witch?

Kitty: Is both an option?

Maleficent: Good, because I would have chosen both myself.

I laughed at this, not expecting to agree with Maleficent again. Guess she really isn't all that bad. Still something is bugging me about this situation though...

Kitty: Since you're in a talkative mood, can I ask something?

Maleficent: And what is it you have to ask?

Kitty: No easy way to ask, but... Why did you really ask for protection? You've been hiding the whole time, so why now?

Maleficent looked at me as she didn't think I would have that question in mind. Looking away, she gazed into the endless room of the Time Chamber.

Maleficent: Ever wanted to do something to make yourself feel like you mattered?

That took me by surprise, but there was no point lying about this.

Kitty: All the time.

Maleficent: Yet, it would seem I'm just cursed to not even fit anywhere.

Kitty: What's really stopping that though? If people see you right now, just being honest and showing who you really are, then there's always a chance.

Maleficent: It's not that easy... How does one do good and BE good, when everyone only knows you for the horrible acts only?

Kitty: Then make a change for yourself. You and the group were enemies, yet you're helping us right now.

Maleficent: Let me ask you, have you been in my shoes before?

Kitty: Of feeling like you don't fit in or belong anywhere? Yeah, plenty of times.

Maleficent: I felt, had I made the biggest noise, everyone would not want to ignore me. Sure, I would be hated, but I would be heard.

Kitty: Did it work for you? Making the biggest noise?

Maleficent: It did, for a time. But even when I had all the power I wanted, I felt nothing until I achieved everything I could get.

Kitty: Did it even help you feel you fitted in?

Maleficent felt as if the words hit her deeply.

Maleficent: With the promise of power and control to rule over all worlds, all they saw was more power for their eyes to see.

Kitty: What about just you? Just you as a person?

Maleficent: I'm afraid... No.

Kitty: There's the problem. No power will ever be enough if you don't feel treated like a person.

Maleficent: Even then... Everyone there was merely pawns for what I wanted... If they perished, so be it... But in the end... The fates some of them deserve, should not have been out of tyranny...

Kitty: Then the biggest starting point if you want to change how people see you, is to change how you act around people. Treat them how you want to be treated.

Maleficent: And yet, best example of when I first arrived for help, your "sword" friend cared not for wanting to help.

Kitty: It doesn't really help with the fact that you did kind of... Well, made him and his friend lose their home.

Maleficent: Yes... You don't need to remind me of what I did...

Kitty: Sorry... But there's always a chance things can still change. Even with you and Leon, with enough time.

Maleficent was quiet before speaking with a softer voice.

Maleficent: And I'm afraid, time might not be enough in this case...

Kitty: What makes you so sure?

Maleficent: What if my time was almost up...?

Kitty: Time was almost up? What is that meant to mean?

Maleficent was silent as she did not speak this time. She was silent and not wanting to speak my answer, but began to ask her own.

Maleficent: How have your "dreams" been, child?

The way Maleficent said dreams made me suspicious, looking at her confused.

Kitty: Just... Dreams.

Maleficent: Are you "just" sure they're "dreams"?

Kitty: What are you implying, witch?

Maleficent: Are your "dreams" really "dreams" themselves? Or do they have another meaning?

Kitty: Why would dreams have meaning?

Maleficent: Sometimes, dreams are gateways to the future.

Kitty: Like a premonition?

Maleficent: Precisely.

I said nothing, but sighed as there wasn't any point hiding anything when we're on the same side right now.

Kitty: It's only been twice so far, and too vague to understand what's even happening in them.

Maleficent: Then you must tune into your dreams. Your premonitions.

Kitty: How do you even know of th- Wait...

Getting a bad feeling, I only had one idea why Maleficent would know of this.

Kitty: Is that how you even know of time coming to an end? You had your own premonition?

Maleficent: ...

She just stared towards me in the eyes without answering my question to hers.

Kitty: You came for help because you saw that... Was it Chronos?

Maleficent: I do not know...

Kitty: What did you even see...?

Maleficent: I saw you... In Traverse Town... And then feeling an excruciating pain in my back and through my chest. It felt as if something had pierced me. Before I can even know what is happening, I feel an electrifying pain coursing through me... And that's when I wake up...

Kitty: Wasn't it risky to even ask for help in Traverse Town with what happened in the premonition? It may not happen, but still....

Maleficent: Premonitions are readings of futures. They always happen the exact way they foresee it. But my premonition happened in another part of that town. Sooner or later, I'll be in that moment, whether I like it or not.

Kitty: It's for certain? I was told they were only possibilities. Are there different types or different ways to get premonitions?

Maleficent: Of course there are. You have ones where you are able to dream your futures, and ones that can be conjured to see into it and predict where and when a certain moment will happen. For me, I asked to see when my death will be.

Kitty: Why... Would ANYONE want to see- That is just... That just sounds dumb.

Maleficent: If I am to die, I would at least like to know. Gives one confidence to do what is needed before one should go.

Kitty: That's... Actually a fair point.

Maleficent: And since you are there when I die, I do not know what it is I can do to help you, but just know that I do not plan to be in your debt. I plan to return my thanks when that time comes. After all, a good way to be indebted to you for life, is one that does all they can before they die. And I plan to do just that.

Kitty: As long as I get the promised info, it's all good. Speaking of, we're heading to Neverland. Any advice on how to deal with that world?

Maleficent: Beware of Captain Hook. He is a shrewd man who would deceive and trick you. Try to worm his way into your favor only to betray you in a moment's notice. He commands the heartless that look like pirates for a crew. But the two things he fears AND hates the most is this: A boy in a bright green outfit with a little pixie that follows his every moment. The other is a crocodile that had eaten his left hand.

Kitty: Peter Pan and Tinkerbell, and the crocodile. Got it. Wouldn't have expected him to be trying to get on anyone's good side though. He always seemed more blunt.

Maleficent: And yet... You spoke about Hook's nemesis and his worst fear... Tell me, just HOW did you know before I spoke~?

Kitty: You think Jammy is the only one with some knowledge? I know slight details.

Maleficent: And yet, you know of the world Hook is from. I never said which world he was from first of all~

Kitty: Halloween Town didn't really seem to fit for him.

Maleficent: And you are full of surprises.

Kitty: I try my best.

Maleficent: Surprising at best is one thing, but knowledge I never gave to you is even more weird. Considering this should be your "FIRST" time traveling to other worlds.

Kitty: Jammy, Nintega AND Chronos know of things. Is it really that surprising?

Maleficent sighed as she seemed to not like that answer.

Maleficent: Try as much as to hide the truth. I'll learn how you know specific information soon enough.

Kitty: I'm not hiding anything. Just simply keeping it a mystery. No fun in just telling anything.

Maleficent: Be mindful of those words you say. If this IS a mystery, I'll figure it out myself soon enough.

Kitty: Honestly, you may be the last one to know of the truth. Which is more surprising, I actually thought Chronos told all the villains when he appeared.

Maleficent: And yet, the more you talk, the more you keep helping me figure something out about all of you AND the one who has taken what belonged to me.

Kitty: You're smart, you'll figure it out eventually. I'm just helping the process.

Maleficent: Be careful of how much you give, less it might be something of interest for me in the future.

Maleficent looked at me with a wicked smile in becoming more interested in wanting to discover what I had to know. All I did was only laugh and smirk back.

Kitty: I'd love to see you try anything. Allies or not, I'm still on the heroes side.

Maleficent: Unless this is a ploy to-

Before she finishes, she stops herself when sensing that her words would have brought her trouble.

Maleficent: It would appear, something did not like what I was about to say. I shall refrain from making that mistake again, else I might have been the next to be gone.

I looked at SP, seeing him getting back to being annoyed and causing me to sigh softly.

Kitty: SP, Maleficent is going to be staying a while. You don't need to keep glaring at her. Really need her help right now.

SP crossed his arms as he then disappeared from sight. No wonder Jammy got this stand, they have the same attitude for sure.

Kitty: You're fine to talk if you still want. You're not in any danger here.

Maleficent: I feel our time to talk has come to an end unfortunately. I rather start using what time I have to put the pieces together while you go on your adventure.

As Maleficent was walking away, I got up and groaned from the pain in my back as I looked behind me. Ah... That's why... I must have passed out when just wanting a rest on the wall from magic practice. Oh well, at least I got most of the magic spells for the basics down. I should focus on potion making, enchanted arrows and some physical training next time. Especially with the Legions and SP. After stretching to get the pain out of my body, I put the magic books in a room in the resting area before getting the device to leave. I'm really hoping I did set the time right to when everyone would begin getting up...

Location: Gummi Ship - Space Travel

Stepping back into my room, I set the time on the device back to normal time before putting it away. But even in my room, I could hear the yelling from Donald and Wayfinder. Good thing I got the time set right, but what's going on now???

Donald: Wak!! Quit messing around! Give me the controls!!

Wayfinder (AI): And I told you, mind your own business.

As I headed to the area, I saw Goofy already there watching in from the doorway. And seeing the scene made me really want to deal with Maleficent more than this right now. Mechanical arms were coming out of the walls trying to grab onto Donald, who kept moving out of the way while screeching.

Kitty: What is even going on?

Goofy: Donald woke up earlier hoping to gain access to the controls. Wayfinder wasn't in sleep mode though and saw what he was trying to do.

Wayfinder (AI): The duck doesn't get the hint that the controls are not his right now.

Donald: THIS IS MY SHIP!

Wayfinder (AI): My programming to help you all on your travels.

Donald: The ship was just fine! We were all just fine!

Even as Donald yelled this though, an arm snuck up behind him and smacked him into the wall. That had to hurt.

Wayfinder (AI): Oops. My mechanical arm slipped. How did that happen~?

Donald: YOU DID IT ON PURPOSE!

Wayfinder (AI): Go see a psychiatrist.

There was a loud screeching of quacks from Donald that echoed in the whole ship. Until Donald's bill was closed by the hand on the mechanical arm.

Wayfinder (AI): It's too early to deal with your yelling right now. Can someone get me some "duck"tape~?

Despite how Donald kept muffled screeching, Goofy and I looked at each other and couldn't stop the laughter from how crazy all this was. But the noises from earlier were enough to wake up the last three who looked annoyed and groggy from sleep.

Riku: Why is the duck yelling now...?

Sora: Why is he stuck against a wall like that...?

Beat: It's way too early... I wanna go back to sleep...

Looking at Beat, I saw him fall to the floor still half asleep.

Beat: Can someone bring me my pillow...?

Wayfinder (AI): Commencing: Pillow Making Protocols. Scanning for feathers.

There was a beeping sound as a scouter appeared to scan the room. Which started beeping louder when landing on Donald.

Wayfinder (AI): Feathers have been located.

Donald looked at Wayfinder weirdly before looking around to see pinchers slowly closing in on Donald. When realizing what the protocol Wayfinder said earlier was, he began to freak out.

Donald: DO NOT USE MY FEATHERS, YOU FREAK!!!

Wayfinder (AI): Stop trying to get the controls then you keep the feathers.

Donald began to scream louder as he didn't like that option either. But as the pinchers got closer, he reluctantly made a quick decision.

Donald: Fine! I'll stop! Just keep away from my feathers!!

With Donald saying that, the pincers and arms retracted away while preventing a sucker with a label of "DumDum" on it.

Wayfinder (AI): PMP program terminated. Would you like a "DumDum", you dumb dumb?

Donald: Who are you calling a "dumb dumb", stupid AI?!

Wayfinder (AI): Says the duck wearing the ridiculous cone on their head.

On top of Donald's head, it read "Dunce" on it. As everyone looked at the hat, no one could hold back the laughter, even the sleepyhead Beat. Wondering what we were laughing at, Donald got the cone of his head and saw what it said, causing him to freak out even more.

Donald: Wak!! Stop that!!!

Wayfinder (AI): No.

Jiminy popped up onto Goofy's hat to put his own input in, even some laughter in his voice.

Jiminy: Sorry Donald, but it is pretty funny.

Donald began to grumble as he couldn't get anything that was happening to him to stop. Despite how funny it may be, I did feel a little sorry for Donald and tried changing the subject for his sake.

Kitty: Hey Wayfinder, were you able to find the best route for Neverland?

Wayfinder (AI): I have. We should be nearing our destination soon.

Donald: Great! The sooner we get there, the better!

Goofy: At least your feathers won't be used for a pillow.

Beat: I still want my pillow!

Wayfinder (AI): Reinitiating Pillow-

Donald: WE AGREED!!!

Riku seemed to just want some peace from being woken up from all the noise as he left, before throwing a pillow to Beat. When he got the pillow, Beat put it under his head and fell back asleep, still on the floor. Plus side though is that there was quiet from Donald when his feathers were finally safe.

Wayfinder (AI): You're lucky. For now.

Donald: Quiet.

Sora: Are we going to keep waking up to you two fighting with each other?

Donald: If the AI keeps annoying me, then maybe.

Wayfinder (AI): Don't be such an idiot on trying to get controls back from an AI then.

Donald: Why you-!

Warning sirens began to go off when the ship began to detect something approaching fast.

Wayfinder (AI): Warning. Incoming vessel from rear of ship.

When hearing the warning, I checked what was approaching before my eyes widened when seeing it.

Kitty: Brace for impact! Incoming pirate ship!

As I said this, the ship began to shake when being rammed into from behind as the pirate ship began to get in front of us and turn around to try and come back towards us.

Sora: It's coming back! We're about to be hit again!!

Wayfinder (AI): Hold on!! Bracing for impact!!!

We all had to grab onto the nearest thing to us as Wayfinder tried to steer the ship away from the pirate ship, but our way was being blocked too much for us to get around it without causing too much damage.

Wayfinder (AI): I'm losing power...! Abandon ship...!

Hearing that, we all began to feel our bodies lifted up in light before being sent down to the ship all at once.

World: Neverland

Location: Captain Hook's ship.

When being beamed down to the ship, Sora and I were the ones to appear on the deck. I looked around and saw that our friends were nowhere in sight.

Sora: Kitty! What happened to the others!?

Kitty: We'll find them, they would have to be on the ship too. Just a different part or room.

Sora: And this ship, where did it come from...!? It's like Monstro, but they had intentions to make us crash!

Kitty: This looks like a... Pirate ship right? Then we're on Hook's ship.

???: Right you are, little hero!

Both Sora and I jolted when hearing a new voice, looking up to see Captain Hook himself.

Sora: So you must be Hook!

Hook: Seems my reputation perceives me!

Sora: Yeah, the reputation of a villain to take down! Where are our friends?! What did you do to them?!

???: For a boy so worried about your "friends" you don't seem to care about a VERY specific person to you.

Hearing the new voice immediately sent a shiver down my spine, having to stop myself from getting my Keyblade out when we're not in any danger right now.

Kitty: Of course you'd be here too...

Looking towards the voice, I saw Chronos on the mast of the ship as Chronos stood high above us. Giving the impression we're beneath him in terms of importance.

Chronos: What a "coincidence" seeing you two here.

Kitty: Coincidence? Yeah, why else would our ship almost crash into this one if it wasn't YOUR idea?

Chronos: It was. Yet, you can't deny that ramming one ship to another proves useful if just causing the passengers to eject from the ship.

I rolled my eyes at what Chronos said, but Sora wasn't in the mood to talk. Neither was I, but he showed it well enough for the both of us.

Sora: Just tell us where our friends are! What did you do to them?!

Chronos: Okay. I'll show you. At least ONE of them that is.

Sora: ALL our friends!!

Jumping down, it was like Chronos moved in slow motion and touched down softly to the ship. Not even making a sound as he landed without much of an impact. But I could see something behind him as if it looked like someone sitting, and a glimpse of red hair.

Chronos: Your friends from the ship? Does that not include a DEAR friend?

Sora: Enough with the games already! Just what are you even talking about?!

Kitty: Sora, it's Kairi. He's talking about Kairi.

Sora looked at me in shock as we both looked to see Chronos move aside to show Kairi sitting on the floor of the ship.

Sora: Kairi!

Sora rushed up to where Kairi was, but Hook put his... Well Hook in front of Sora before he could get any closer.

Hook: None of your shenanigans on my ship boy!

Chronos: How does it feel to be this close, but not reach your dear friend you've been searching for?

Sora: Just let me see Kairi! I need to know if she's okay!

Chronos: In due time boy, but for now... Why not join your "other" friends in the hold. Oh, and one more thing...

Snapping his fingers, Shadows surrounded Sora as they dove into his own shadow. When they did, the area under Sora turned darker before it moved on him as a dark Sora look alike rose up right in front of him. Sora gasped while I stared at the copy of Sora.

Kitty: Chronos! What did you do!?

Chronos: Just gave Sora's shadow a bit of... "Life" as one calls it. Something to annoy you should you do anything... unpleasant.

Kitty: You mean except having to see you? That's the only unpleasant thing.

Chronos gave a grunt as a trapdoor under Sora opened up as he fell through.

Sora: Whoa!!

Kitty: Sora!!

Before I could even try and see if Sora was okay from the fall, the trapdoor closed the moment he went through. Along with the Heartless, Zakos appeared in aiming their weapons at me to keep me from trying anything.

Chronos: So, Princess of Heart. You're all alone. No friends to help, and no means of getting away.

Kitty: If you're expecting me to just break down in fear, dream on. I wouldn't even think of leaving without everyone anyway.

Chronos: Then you wouldn't mind if you join the girl in the hold?

Kitty: Tell me one thing, what happened to Kairi?

Chronos chuckled as he looked at me with his one eye.

Chronos: And let you pass on what I tell to your companions? You love mysteries, right? Figure it out yourself.

Kitty: She lost her heart, hasn't she? Ever since Destiny Island was lost.

Chronos: You think I'll just tell you that easily??

Kitty: Can you blame me for trying?

Chronos looked at me as he seemed to hate how I replied.

Chronos: Take her to the hold with the girl. Make sure the doors are barred up tightly with no room for escape.

Commanding the Heartless and Zakos, there were many around me as I only had so much room to fight on this ship. With little ways to maneuver, it would be best to save my strength for now and do as they tell me. At least the training with Leon helped learn one skill that will help with this mess. The Heartless picked up Kairi as we were both being taken to some place where we would be held prisoner. For now...

Location: Ship: Cabin

As both Kairi and I were taken to what looked like sleeping quarters for a pirate crew. Once the door was shut, I heard some stuff happening to the door as the Zakos were clearly the ones building something. When hearing the shuffling sounds stopping and footsteps walking away, I tried giving a push at the door, but there wasn't even a single movement.

Kitty: Ugh... Damn it. What did they do to the door???

???: Oh. Who are you?

Hearing another girl's voice, I looked over to see Wendy. Someone that Peter Pan cares about, who was brought to Neverland by him. I can only guess the reason she's here is they think she's a Princess of Heart.

Kitty: Oh! Sorry I didn't see you earlier. My name is Kitty, who are you?

Wendy: My name is Wendy. It's nice to meet you. But I wished under better circumstances...

Kitty: It's nice to meet you too, Wendy, even under these circumstances. May I ask though, what are you doing on this ship?

Wendy: Well, I was with Peter Pan... A boy thought to be an imagination, but came to my home. One thing led to another on this adventure and suddenly, I'm captured on this ship. Peter Pan was even locked away on this ship as well. I fear he'll be stuck down in the hold forever...

The hold? That's where everyone is. If we can just get out of this room, then we can find them. Just avoiding Hook and Chronos will be the main issue...

Kitty: Then the only thing we can do is try and find the hold. Even if the door won't open, there's still got to be a way out of this room.

Wendy: I can't get the door open. And even if I could... There are strange creatures making sure we can't escape... One foot and they try to attack...

Kitty: What do these creatures look like?

Wendy: Strange creatures with a strange emblem on them and some metallic creatures with guns.

So the Heartless and Zakos would still be guarding, so it would be offensive and defensive at the same time. As I listened to what Wendy said, I looked down when feeling something to see my hand was going intangible. Must have used the phasing ability without meaning too, but now would be the best time to do it if it means getting both Kairi and Wendy safe.

Kitty: I may have a way of getting everyone out of here, but I'll need just a few minutes to deal with those creatures.

Wendy: You do? How so?

Kitty: The best way I could say is... It's a special skill and power set.

Wendy looked at me weirdly before I went over nearest to what looked like a net. Looking down below, I could see this was a type of forgery for making weapons and gear. I could even see more Zakos as they seemed to be... Having a party down here- Why are they having a party when needing to be on guard duty!? Oh well, at least this will make it easier. Knowing I had space down below where I could phase to, I looked at Wendy.

Kitty: I'll try to be quick.

Taking a deep breath, I focused on phasing through the wall and my destination. Which luckily worked as when getting out the wall, I was in the right place in a corner to go unnoticed for now. Getting my Keyblade out, I made a small light shield to help defend against bullets.

Tamashi: You're going to raise hell to a party of robots and didn't even invite me???

Hello to you too, I thought you were asleep with how quiet you were.

Tamashi: Nah, been listening to everything and just decided to relax for a bit. Honestly, that Chronos guy is getting on my nerves.

That's something I can agree with you on. Sooner he gets dealt with, the better. But first, dealing with these guys.

Tamashi: Yeah, let's kick their rear ends into that smelter!!

And that was it for the talk when one of the Zakos spotted me.

Zako 1: Hey! One of the prisoners escaped!

Zako 2: Huh!? How did she get in here!? Get her you idiots!!

The Zakos lifted their weapons up while one was holding a ladle as a weapon.

Kitty: Why a ladle...?

The Zako looked at the ladle in his hand before tossing it to get his axe.

Kitty: Ah, that makes more sense.

Zako: It was an honest mistake! Don't judge me for it!

Kitty: No judgement here, easily done.

Zako: Oh, really? Thank yo-

As the Zako was trying to thank me, the others bonked him on the head.

Zako 1: What are you doing, Zako!?

Zako 2: She's an important prisoner, Zako! And even the enemy! Don't THANK her!!!

Zako 3: Oh, right! You're right!!

Kitty: Manners can be learnt too, even in villains.

Zako 1: Enough talk! We know how you heroes are! You talk and you make us confused to switch sides or even have us attack each other! We are not falling for that again!

Kitty: Hey, I'm not trying to cause any trouble.

Zako 2: I-It must be a trick!

Zako 3: What if she isn't, Zako?

Zako 2: Are you already converting to the other side over us!?

Zako 1: What if you haven't already and we're the ones being betrayed!?

The 6 Zakos in the room all looked at each other and began to get into a scuffle on their own as they began to beat each other up before I did anything!! Well, no point waiting around. Removing the shield and putting my Keyblade away, I phased back into the room to get everyone out while the Zakos were busy fighting.

Kitty: We've got the chance to get out of here.

Wendy: Y-You went through the floor to go down there and then you came back up...! H-How did you-?

Kitty: It's a special skill I learnt. It can be used to get out of this room to find Peter if you wish.

Wendy thought about it, but when hearing voices outside and stuff being taken down, it sounded like we were about to be entered upon whether we liked it or not. Hearing metallic footsteps, I knew more enemies were coming. Getting Kairi onto my back to get her out too, I looked to Wendy.

Kitty: Sorry, but we really need to get out of here and fast. I'm really going to need your trust on this.

Looking at the door and Wendy, she walked up to me in trusting me. Sighing in relief, I held onto her and focused on the phasing. I've never done it with others before, please let this work! Having Wendy hold tight to me, we began running as we phased through the wall into the hall and then onto the deck of the ship.

Location: Deck

As we exited, I looked around and saw a ladder and quietly whispered to Wendy.

Kitty: Wendy, go up the ladder and I'll follow behind. I'll need to make sure you are where you and Kairi can be safe for now.

Wendy: How will you carry her up the ladder???

Kitty: Take it slow climbing up, and climb with one hand. There's no other choice. It will be okay.

Looking at me, Wendy seemed to trust me as she began heading for the ladder to climb up. When I got to the ladder, I summoned SP to cover behind me while gently helping Kairi from not falling off my back. Once we made it up the first ladder, we began heading for the next one. The door nearby opened slightly as we had to rethink the plan softly. Not knowing who was coming, we had to try and hide the best we could. Finding some barrels nearby, we quickly hid behind them and let them be our cover. But we got tense when hearing Hook's voice.

Captain Hook: Mr. Smee! Out on the deck this instant!!

???: Coming right away, Captain!!

Walking out onto the deck, I could see Hook and his right hand man, Smee, as they looked down over the railing of the ship.

Smee: Whatever is it that you wanted to tell me, Captain?

Captain Hook: I'm wanting to talk about Chronos, but it's like he's EVERYWHERE...!!!

Smee: You mean that person in that metallic armor?

Captain Hook: No, the fly that pilots it in a- OF COURSE HIM, YOU IDIOT!!!

Smee: Sorry, Captain! What did you have to say about him? He doesn't seem to be here right now.

Captain Hook suddenly covers Smee's mouth fast as he looks around for any sign of Chronos.

Captain Hook: Don't say that name so loudly!!

Chronos: Oh, but I would also be interested in hearing what you have to say.

There was deadly silence in the air as Hook froze, before slowly turning around to look at Chronos with a fake smile.

Captain Hook: Ah, how nice of you to appear once more.

Chronos looks at Hook before reaching out with his two hands and begins to pull at Hook's mustache and pulls them off.

Captain Hook: OOOOOOOOOOOOWWWWWWWWWW!!!!

Even Smee winced from the pain Hook must have felt in that moment.

Chronos: Keep talking about me behind my back, and you'll be wishing that you had more hairs on your face than being fed to the croc.

Hook seemed to pale at the mention of the crocodile that ate his hand.

Captain Hook: Aye, that's noted!

Chronos vanished once more while Hook tried to regain his senses.

Smee: Captain! Are you okay!?

Hook looked at Smee and got up to get in his face.

Captain Hook: NO!! NO I AM NOT!!! MY MUSTACHE IS GONE! AND THAT FREAK IS THREATENING WITH THAT STUPID CROCODILE!!

Hook stopped his ranting to take a moment to calm down, but was still agitated.

Captain Hook: As long as no one escapes, it's all going to be fine.

Smee: B-But Captain... I was trying to tell you something before...

Captain Hook: What now Smee...!?

Smee: Didn't we have Peter Pan down in the hold where we placed the Keybearer into?

As if a cuckoo clock was ticking off in his head, Hook seemed to realize what was about to transpire.

Captain Hook: You put those brats and the King's lackeys with that meddlesome boy!!! Do you even realize what that Key does!?

Smee: B-B-B-B-B-But sir...!

Captain Hook: Go and check on them now! If any of them have gotten out, it's going to be you in trouble!

Smee: Eeeeeeeeeek!!!

Not wanting to anger Hook any further, Smee quickly ran back through the door they came from to check on the hold. When Hook went back through the same door as Smee, I checked around us to see if anyone else was around. Not seeing anyone, I sighed in relief and whispered to Wendy.

Kitty: We should be safe now.

Wendy: That was Captain Hook, if he finds us-!

Kitty: We'll be okay, Hook isn't as scary as he seems.

Wendy: A-Are you sure...?

Kitty: Of course. I'm not going to let anything bad happen to you, and we'll find Peter as well. He may even be looking for you right now too.

Wendy: I-If you're sure. I'll keep trusting you.

Kitty: We need to keep moving for now, find a safe hiding spot.

Nodding her head, Wendy agreed with me as she was ready to keep going. After getting Kairi back up again, we head for the other ladder to climb up the next one. We were basically as high as the deck could take us as high above on the masts are the crows nests. Places where the highest vantage point was to survey the lands to help spot land easier. Looking around, we saw some treasure chests as I had an idea.

Kitty: Wendy, help me with two chests.

Wendy: Hmm??

Kitty: We're gonna empty some of their gold. Hopefully it can help fit you AND Kairi in them.

Wendy: Oh! I get what you're saying! Throw the treasure overboard and hide amongst their treasure!

Kitty: Exactly. It's the best chance there is to avoid you and Kairi being spotted.

We began to hurry and get to work on emptying the chests of gold to throw the gold overboard. It may be a waste of treasure, but it probably wasn't Hook's treasure to begin with. When the treasure had been emptied and there was no sign of any of it left, I looked into the chest and there was enough space to hide in.

Kitty: Okay, let's put Kairi in here first. We'll get yours next.

Wendy gave a nod with her head as we helped Kairi get in as comfortably as possible. Not even a single movement at all from her... Sora and Riku are not going to like this at all... Wendy and I began to work on the next chest as we worked a bit faster this time. When there was enough treasure out the chest to pick it up easier, we picked it up and tilted it over the water to spill out the remaining treasure easier.

Kitty: Okay, after we're done with this one, you get in and I'll close it.

Wendy: Then what about you? You need a chest of your own to hide in...!

Kitty: I'll need to keep moving to find everyone.

Wendy: You sure you'll be okay???

Kitty: I'll be okay. If I see Peter, I'll let him know you're safe and where you are.

Wendy: If you're sure. Just promise me you'll stay safe.

Kitty: I promise.

After making the promise, Wendy complies and goes into the chest as I ask. Closing the chest, I looked around to see no one around and sighed relieved we didn't seem to be caught.

Tamashi: Guess Peter's real treasure is in one of these chests. Question is, is it gold, or one of the girls? Heh~

That actually may be one of the better comments you ever made.

Tamashi: Fuck you. I made great comments.

When?

Tamashi: Every day!

Rigggggght. Go back to sleep delusional.

Tamashi: Fine. I'll go for a drive then.

Do I dare to even ask if you have a literal car now...? To answer my question, I heard the start of a car engine going off in my head and heard tires screeching before it drives off. That voice... Is going to drive me insane... Sighing for now, I decide to get my Keyblade out and use it to relock the chests. Hoping to give them a bit more security to allow them to be safe. Kairi, Wendy... Be safe until this is all over. We'll get you two out of this one way or another. As I began to step away from the chest, I bumped into something as I turned around to see a pirate Heartless that looked like it had glider-like wings.

Kitty: Holy heck... Well this is something...

As I was baffled, it began getting ready to wind up a fist to send my way! Raising my Oathkeeper, I blocked the strike and then sliced at the Heartless in two. Did I just counter? It felt so... Natural, even when it wasn't intended...

Kitty: Okay... If I was a group of fight hungry boys with steroids... Where would I be? Hmm... Wait, follow the sounds of attacking grunts. What am I doing??

As I began climbing down the ladder, the sound of grunts and Heartless attacking practically assaulted my hearing. Either the Heartless attacked in a large group, or the group went looking for trouble. Following the sounds, they kept getting louder when going the right direction. Going onto the ground floor of the deck, I went back through where Wendy and I came from.

Location: Ships Cabin Floor

Opening the door, I peeked my head inside and looked to see a scuffle of dust clouds as I saw Beat poking his head out from time to time.

Beat: Where is Kitty you assholes!? I'll beat every last one of you shit stains until you tell me!!!

Kitty: Heartless can't talk Beat. Nor can anything if you beat them up too much...

Beat: I'll keep going until I find where you are Kit-

When realising who was speaking, Beat stopped fighting as the dust disappeared to show Heartless with pirate swords floating around their heads.

Beat: Oh, there you are!

As Beat spoke a sword came down on his head as it felt a little lodged as the Heartless was trying to pull it out, but to no avail.

Sora: Um... Beat...?

Riku: You got something... On your head.

Beat: Huh? I do?

Beat felt his head until putting his hand on the sword.

Beat: When did that get there?

Donald: The fact that you are being attacked by... What's the word...? ENEMY!!!!

Beat: Oh, right.

Beat found the handle of the sword and gripped onto it, pulling the sword from his head. But there didn't seem to be any damage, as if it wasn't there in the first place.

Goofy: Didn't that hurt???

Beat: Nope, I'm all good!

???: Boy, you sure are weird, but you make a great lost boy, that's for sure!

Hearing a new voice, I looked to where it came from to see the famous Peter Pan.

Kitty: Seems you boys got out of the hold with ease. Made a new friend as well?

Sora and Riku: Kitty!

Goofy: Thank goodness you're okay. Donald was even worried about you.

Donald: Wak! Don't say that!!!

I rolled my eyes a little at Donald's reaction, but it was still sweet how he was worried.

Kitty: I was worried about you all too, even Donald.

Floating over to me, Peter began to look at me.

Peter: So, you're their friend?

Kitty: I am.

Peter: Well, nice to meet you. Your friends have been worried about you and another one too.

Kitty: The other friend is safe too. Speaking off, your friend Wendy was worried about you too.

Peter: Wendy?! You know about Wendy too??

Kitty: She was stuck in the same room I got thrown into, and told me about you too. Don't worry though, she's safe as well.

Seemingly impressed, Peter smiled in seeing my resourcefulness.

Peter: Well, you surprised me a lot. But that shouldn't mean your help shouldn't go unrewarded.

Whistling, Peter summoned a glowing light that then appeared beside him. It was a fairy, a fairy named Tinker Bell who has been Peter's companion for a long time.

Peter: Tink, meet Kitty. She's Sora and Riku's friend that they spoke about traveling with.

Looking at Peter and then towards me, she seemed unimpressed as she turned to Peter as she seemed to be annoyed with meeting me.

Peter: Oh, come on Tink! She's helped us. We can get Wendy and get out of here too!

Tinker Bell turned her back to him as he rolled his eyes. Taking Tink by the wings, he began to fly around spreading Pixie Dust on me.

Kitty: So, what did you do again?

Peter: Well, with a little Pixie Dust, anyone can fly, even me! You just got to believe.

Tinkerbell still seemed annoyed about being grabbed like that, but the subject changed quickly before she could show her anger any more.

Riku: If everyone is ready, can we please go and see our friends now?? Flying lessons can wait for now.

Kitty: I agree, right now, we need to try and get Kairi and Wendy out of here as fast as we can. They're hiding on the highest point of the deck, near the masts.

Not wanting to waste any time, everyone quickly left the room to get to their friends.

Location: Deck.

Getting back up to the highest point of the deck at record speed, I headed to the chest Wendy was hiding in and knocked on it softly.

Kitty: Wendy? Peter is here.

Wendy (In chest): Peter? Peter Pan??

Using my Keyblade to get the chest back open, I got the lid up and helped get Wendy out.

Peter: Wendy! You're okay!

Wendy: It's great to see you safe too, Peter!

Wendy and Peter had a reunion hug as Sora and Riku looked at me.

Sora: Where's Kairi?

Riku: In one of these chests too??

I said nothing, only opening the chest Kairi was in before getting her out gently. But just as I feared, no movement still...

Riku: Kairi!

Sora: You're okay!

Even when being called out too, there was no response from Kairi. Getting more worried, the two approached as Sora even tried shaking her gently.

Sora: Kairi! Kairi! Open your eyes!

Riku: Why is there no response from her?!

I glanced at Wendy and Peter, who was still in their reunion before looking back at the two and spoke quietly.

Kitty: I think... That Kairi may have possibly lost her heart, since what happened to the island. Even when getting out of the room, she's just been asleep like this.

Riku and Sora looked at me with fear in their eyes at hearing Kairi losing her heart.

Riku: What!?

Sora: N-No...! It can't be...!

Kitty: Chronos never confirmed it, but never denied it either. It's only a possibility though. Not for certain.

Riku and Sora looked scared and looked at Kairi in being worried for her.

Kitty: Hey, it's okay. Kairi is going to be safe, and if in the worst case her heart is lost then we can just get it back. We've all been working together to get our friends back, and that means their hearts too. We're not going to give up on saving Kairi.

Sora and Riku looked at me, but Riku seemed more determined as he clenched his fist.

Riku: If it means we have to search for her heart as well, we can do it, right, Sora??

Sora still seemed to be worried, but looked at Kairi before giving a determined nod.

Sora: I'm not going to give up, I want our friend back and to see her smile again. Let's do this!

I smiled seeing the two determined to see their friend safe, feeling certain Kairi will be safe with these two helping.

Kitty: Kairi will be the safest on the ship when we can get back. For now though, she's got to stay hidden.

???: Unfortunately for you... You won't get that far.

The same shiver went down my spine from earlier, knowing it would only be one person causing that feeling.

Kitty: Will there be a time you could not be annoying?

Turning around, I saw Chronos there with Captain Hook and the Heartless.

Chronos: Sadly, that's supposed to be my line with how meddlesome you always get.

Kitty: Keep up with the compliments, they're the kindest things you could say.

Chronos: I wished I could, but I can't let you take that girl. And for good reasons too.

Sora and Riku were quick to get their own weapons out, ready to charge in at a moment's notice.

Sora and Riku: You're not taking Kairi!

Chronos: Oh? You wish to fight me?

Donald: It won't just be them if you try anything!

Donald ran up to where we are, along with Goofy with a raised shield.

Goofy: We won't just let a friend be taken away!

Chronos looked at Donald and Goofy as he snapped his fingers and summoned more pirate Heartless. Even a smaller ship with a Heartless as its captain that can fly! Just when it seemed it couldn't get worse, Sora's now alive shadow appeared for its own trouble too.

Sora: Not this thing again!

Donald: Please tell me it's not going to dance again...

Unlike what Donald said, the shadow of Sora suddenly pulls out its own Keyblade and readies itself for battle.

Goofy: I don't think it's playing around anymore...!

Chronos: You can just get out of this if you just hand the girl over.

Chronos held out his hand as if expecting to have us hand Kairi over.

Captain Hook: If you value your lives, you do what he says.

Instead of doing as told, everyone else held their weapons to prepare to fight as I held Kairi closer. No way we'd lose her now when we just saw her again! Aiming Oathkeeper at him, I glared with what I said next.

Kitty: Come and take her. If you can.

Chronos didn't seem to like the answer as he began rushing towards me while I didn't hesitate to phase away and get some distance.

Kitty: Too slow~

I smirked as I began to run fast while using the distance to get a headstart to find somewhere safe for Kairi. I'd love to keep phasing, but it's a struggle to keep doing it with more people from not having much practice. The others would have the Heartless taken care of, and Peter would help protect Wendy which is a huge relief. Just where is the best place for Kairi to be safe?!

Chronos: You'll have to do better than that if you plan to outmaneuver me on a ship! If you plan on hiding, there's no place where you can hide that I won't see!!

I knew this was going to happen. Stopping in my tracks to save my energy, I called out to Chronos.

Kitty: I'd be a fool to think I could get away from you that easily.

Chronos: Then what are you planning to do?

Kitty: You wouldn't have been talking so much with anyone else around, just straight on the offense.

Chronos: And? What are you doing? Running away while holding a defenseless girl.

Kitty: If Kairi was with the others, it would have been hard to keep her safe from you or Hook while fighting those Heartless.

Chronos: And a correct observation too. Had you been with those around you, I would have stopped time to force you to face me head on.

Kitty: What was stopping you doing it now? You had the chance while I ran.

Chronos: Even I wish to keep what is a prize safe. And she is a worthy prize indeed.

Kitty: Because she's a Princess of Heart?

Chronos: What gives you that idea?

Kitty: What other interest would you have in Kairi otherwise?

Chronos looked at me as he began to chuckle.

Chronos: Can't believe you of all people figured that out.

Kitty: As you said, mystery lover here. It's only a matter of piecing things together. You made it extremely obvious though.

Chronos: Hmph. I'll have to make the next mystery a challenge then.

Kitty: Curious what that will be now.

Chronos: For now... How about a change of scenery...

Kitty: What are you talking about?

Chronos looked at me before snapping his fingers. Behind me, I heard something as I looked behind me to see a portal forming out of Darkness. Immediately I was backing as far away from the Portal as I could.

Kitty: Nope, nope, nope! We're in this mess BECAUSE of a freaking portal you made before!

Chronos: But where we're going? You'll have more scenery to see. Maybe even a familiar... feeling~

Kitty: You're completely screwed up in the head to think I'm trusting what you say!

Feeling a hand on my back, I looked back to see Chronos was there.

Chronos: And you don't have a choice in this matter.

I tried to dig my heels or stop myself from being pushed, but the difference in strength was too much as Kairi and I were forced into the portal of Darkness.

Location: London, Near Big Ben.

As I was flung into the portal, I held on tightly to Kairi as I could see Heartless trying to grab hold of us while passing through. When exiting, they couldn't hold on as it seemed they couldn't pass through it.

Kitty: There has to be better travel options than being thrown into the freaking portals!

When hearing cars beeping, I looked around to be in an alleyway. But there's no ca- No way! Running to the exit on the alleyway, my eyes widened when seeing the clock tower. But that wouldn't make sense!

Kitty: How...?! This is...! Huhhhh?!

Chronos: Feeling home sweet home?

Kitty: A little. But what's even your game plan on this? Why take me here?

Coming through the portal, Chronos continued the conversation.

Chronos: Because, I already know where the Keyhole is in this world.

My eyes widened more when hearing this, looking back to Chronos.

Kitty: Feeling generous enough to spill that info?

Chronos: How about a question? "What is London famous for, besides the London Eye~?"

Kitty: Seriously? That is the worst example you can give on famous attractions, that's just famous for being too pricey. But it's Big Ben.

Looking back at the clock tower in front of me, it was making more sense now.

Kitty: The clock tower was modelled after Big Ben? Impressive.

Chronos: And why do you think I would take you here?

Kitty: You're in a good enough mood to let me seal the Keyhole?

Chronos: No.

Kitty: Dammit. Never seem to catch you in a good mood...

Chronos: Because I have a game to play with you. And it's called "Would you rather?"

Kitty: Why do you even want to play that...?

Chronos: Because, what happens here, will decide if your journey here continues, or ends.

I tensed up as I just side eyed Chronos with narrowed eyes.

Kitty: What are you talking about?!

Chronos snapped his fingers as something went over us as I looked up. I didn't see anything, but not before something went past me and then behind Chronos.

Chronos: Keyblade wielder meet, the Phantom.

Any colour in my face was rapidly fading fast. The Phantom is a secret boss and usually optional. In the game he could hurt your allies badly in time using the clock tower, one full circle around the clock would make an ally lose their heart, then the other ally, and then you. You can delay that though by using Stop magic on the clock hands. And only one specific attack at a time can hurt it. Though it doesn't do much damage, the mechanics can be your worst nightmare if not careful. Since I don't have any allies... It's one chance for me only.

Chronos: I hope you're not afraid of ghosts~

Kitty: Fuck you!

Chronos: Are you ready for that game I mentioned?

Kitty: Would you rather? Do I have a choice to play it or not?

Chronos: You unfortunately do not.

Kitty: No surprise there...

Chronos: Would you rather... Protect the girl from me? Or protect this world from the Heartless?

Kitty: What kind of choice is that?!

Chronos: Simple. You protect the girl, this world gets swallowed up into Darkness. The world disappears along with the Gummi that leads to a trail towards Hollow Bastion. Without it, you won't get to our fateful meeting.

Kitty: Actually, there was something to ask about that meeting.

Chronos seemed confused and decided to look at me.

Chronos: What about it?

Kitty: What's the real reason you agreed to that fight? If you're already after Kairi's Heart, there wouldn't be a need for mine since you already have six Princesses.

Chronos: Because, rather than taking a child's heart as a catalyst for Kingdom Hearts, I would like it to be yours that gets used to make it for me.

Kitty: Then what would be the excuse with Alice? What difference does it make between what heart is used?

Chronos: Because in the end, I get to choose which final heart is used to make the Kingdom Hearts with them

Kitty: And yet you still insist on getting Kairi, where you would have all Princesses already. If you were so insistent on getting the Keyhole made, you wouldn't wait around like that. So the ACTUAL reason?

Chronos looked me in the eyes as he spoke something that would surprise me.

Chronos: Because I'm not wanting Kingdom Hearts.

Kitty: Then why even go through the trouble?

Chronos: All an act. To use those around me with unbridled need for more power come together, they make great puppets for a "greater" use.

Kitty: How much more twisted can you get?!

Chronos: You're really going to be asking me that?

Kitty: That's meant to be the thing known as sarcasm.

Chronos: Regardless, to answer your question, I would tell someone they mattered to me very much, only to use them as a human shield for my protection if needed.

Kitty: Great... I would get mixed up with the worst psycho in the history of psychos...

Chronos: Heh, you haven't met anyone like me or worse yet.

Kitty: I can go through life without regretting never meeting you or anyone like you.

The Phantom began to get agitated as Chronos looked at it.

Chronos: You better make a decision. If this world disappears, so too your chances of reaching Hollow Bastion.

I hissed under my breath, but knew the only way we could do anything to fix all that happened would be getting to Hollow.

Kitty: I'd rather fight now, save Kairi later.

The Phantom roared as it began to hurry towards the clock tower.

Chronos: I'd start working on your excuses as soon as you can after your fight with the Heartless. Leave the girl and go.

Kairi, I'm sorry... We'll be sure you'll be safe as soon as we get there... Hating how I had to play Chronos' game like this, I put Kairi down gently.

Chronos: You knew your good decision to not let this world fall into Darkness was the only choice your heart would make. You're too nice to let many suffer for one little girl.

Kitty: I knew that Kairi could be saved when we got to Hollow. I wouldn't trust you around her if there was another choice.

Chronos walked over to Kairi and picked her up and looked towards me.

Chronos: Would love to stay and chat, but I'd be lying because I HATE talking to you.

Kitty: Oh good, we can agree on that.

There was a loud roar and tremble as I looked at the Clock Tower.

Chronos: You have a duty to uphold, will you survive this ordeal?

When I looked back, Chronos was gone along with the portal he came from. I clenched my hand in anger. I had to give Kairi up, but knowing she will be somewhere after this world, we'll get her back soon. Looking up at the tower, I could see the Phantom trying to search for the Keyhole. I took a deep breath as I closed my eyes. From all the times I felt like I couldn't do anything, to all the constant fear felt that keeps controlling me. This time, I have to step up. I pushed each one away in my mind as I began taking a step forward. I faced impossible odds, I've been getting stronger, I'm through with being scared, I can do anything anyone else can do, and I won't be left in the side wing like this!! I soon began to run as I crouched down and felt lighter before jumping up and kept going higher and higher. I looked around me to see Pixie Dust sparkling around me in showing I was flying right now. Smiling at this, I began to fly faster as I looked at the Phantom right now. Readying my Keyblade, I aimed it at the Heartless and saw the orb was red. Meaning fire can only hurt it at that moment. Casting Firaga I casted a fireball as it crashed into the orb hard. The Heartless roared out a ghastly noise as it turned its attention to me.

Kitty: Your master may have given you the orders to take this world, but you won't be doing that anytime soon!

The Heartless roared more as the clock faces soon began to light up in flames on the hour positions. This is where I need to pay attention too, one full circle will be game over. Flying over fast and dodging away from the attacks, I used Stopga to freeze the clock hands. That will give me some time, just have to keep an eye on when they start moving again. Turning to the Phantom once more, I began to observe as the orb was blue now. With not a second to waste, I used Blizzaga on the orb, which just managed to hit enough from the Phantom moving to get enough damage on it. The orb changed to yellow next as I readied the next spell to what I needed. When the Phantom was getting closer to try and strike me, I used Thundaga but it wasn't hit!

Kitty: Damn...! I mis- Gah!

Because the Thunder magic didn't hit the target, it gave the Phantom a chance for its own attack as I got knocked back from being struck by its hands. I was knocked down from the air for a moment as I got a chance to see the orb had changed to be a colorless orb. That's a close range attack, it needs to be struck with the Keyblade.. Regaining my balance, I used the momentum to angle my trajectory to fly back up fast and strike the orb on my way past the Heartless. It roared loudly in anger at how it hurt him. Getting back up and keeping some distance, I glanced at the clock and saw the clock hands beginning to move again. Having to focus on the clock for a moment, I flew closer and used Stopga magic to stop the hands once more. I looked to see there were 8 more flames on the clock now as I had that much more time before things take a sour turn. But when my focus was on the clock, I felt a sharp pain on my back and sent into the clock face and hit against it hard, looking behind to see the Phantom had taken the chance to attack with its claws when distracted on the clock.

Kitty: Ngh... Clever but annoying.

Wiping my mouth, I saw blood on my hand as I took a breath. The longer I wait around, the more I risk a worst case scenario. With the orb not there right now, I just need to wait for it to get back and dodge its attacks. It soon began to charge up an attack as I had to get away fast. When it fired, a projectile was homing in on my position as I quickly went behind a wall before it got to me. Taking a breath, I steeled myself and cast Aerogra before zooming out from behind the clock to see the orb had returned to being yellow. Building up the magic, I saw the Phantom preparing to fire another attack and took the chance to cast Thundaga. Since it was focused on the attack, a roar of pain was the confirmation that this time it had worked. As the battle continued on, exchanges in damage were being done as I would get some hits off, dodge some attacks, damage from claws or the fireballs, or slammed to the clock tower when I had to focus on it. The plus side though, is despite how the Phantom was dodging some attacks, I was getting more hits on it then he was avoiding. It was getting down to moments of needing to focus as I drank my last Ether to regain some magic back. The Phantom knew the battle was nearing the end, as it was trying to keep its distance from me. Focusing more on attacking with the claws and flying away, or the dark fireballs.

Kitty: Get back here you!

I was really having to be careful, the numbers on the clock were lighting up in flames further to show time was running out to end this. With the orb being colourless, I managed to duck from the claws and hit the orb when I moved down. Just a few more hits is all I need...! When seeing the orb change to be blue, I aimed my Keyblade at the Phantom and casted Blizzaga once more. The Phantom screamed in pain as the damage was getting through. When it turned yellow I began casting Thundaga, but I missed.

Kitty: Damn it! Stay still!!

The orb stayed yellow long enough for me to try again, which did work. But I was too slow to avoid the retaliation from the first attempt as I had to stop the yell of pain feeling the claws on my right arm. When seeing the orb had changed to red, I aimed my Keyblade and ignored the pain in my arm to attempt to cast Firaga, but the Phantom charged towards me as it dodged the spell at the last second!

Kitty: What!? Shit!!

I saw the Phantom charge at me as it took me by the throat. It then proceeded to fly me to the Clock Tower and slammed me into it.

Kitty: GAH!!! AUGH!!!

I tried to get its hand off my throat, even desperately trying to claw at it to just get some space. But it felt as if the grip was getting tighter instead. Hearing the clock hands moving again, I widened my eyes as it was moving faster. I could hear my heart race as the minute hand was getting to each flame. 3 flames left. I could hear my heart beating louder by the stress of this. Not like this... This can't be how this ends... 2 flames left. I come this far? Only to be done in by a clock effect...? 1 flame left. I closed my eyes as I aimed my Key at the Phantom as my eyes opened while I bursted in light. The Phantom screeched and moved away as it looked to be burning. Even though there should be no platform under me, I stood on a solid energy platform. I swung my Keyblade and casted Stopga in encasing it in time. Keeping it from going active until the battle is over.

Kitty: I'm tired of this bullshit. This ends now.

Aiming my Oathkeeper, a light began to flicker before it grew in size. As the Phantom was trying to decide what to do, it tried to make an attempt to fly towards me.

Kitty: Wrong choice.

Aiming for its head, I fired my beam as it not only encompassed the body of the Phantom, but sent it flying high into the sky until it was forever gone. The blast I created was so powerful, in the sky, you could see an explosion of light as it made it look like it was daytime for at least three minutes.

Kitty: Good riddance...

Once settling down at the top of the tower, I began to rest and practically collapsed on it. Laying down, I closed my eyes while trying to take deep breaths. It felt as if all my energy had been drained from me, everything hurts to move, and it took a lot of magic facing that to even try and heal. I just need to rest a moment before finding the way back to everyone, after finding the Keyhole if possible. As I closed my eyes, I drifted off to sleep once more.

Location: ???

The moment I opened my eyes, I knew it was another premonition from feeling as if I was watching from the outside. This time as well, I could recognise it was the Arena in the Coliseum. There was the sound of two people fighting, blades clashing against each other. But looking in the stands, I could only see one person clearly... Chronos...

Chronos: Oh, but it can. One must fall, that's the way this ends. And I think it's clear which one will fall~

It felt as if my heart froze in place when hearing this, getting the clear meaning of what Chronos said. But when I tried to see who was fighting, I couldn't get a clear picture as it looked like a blur. All I could see on one person was long, silver hair.

Location: Neverland Clock Tower.

The same feeling I woke up to this morning of a fast beating heart was what woke me up, sitting up with a gasp filled with fear. Would be nice to get a premonition that isn't filling me with constant fear...

Kitty: Really getting tired of these premonitions... But that one... I'm really hoping it doesn't happen...

After regaining my strength, I began to take flight as I was about to head towards Neverland, but my Oathkeeper suddenly appeared in my hand to guide me by pointing to the Clock Tower. Right, the Keyhole. Best to lock that first. Fixing the clock hands on the tower, I floated back to wait for when something could happen. As the face of the clock I was looking at began to light up, the Keyhole began to appear on the face I was looking at. Preparing my Key, I aimed it at the Keyhole and fired the beam into it. When hearing the sound of a lock clicking, the Keyhole began to disappear, securing this world's safety from being swallowed up. When the Keyhole closed up, a Gummi Block came out. Probably a navigation Gummi to travel with. Now to get back and bug Donald for a potion to at least stop any bleeding or bruising. Sitting back on the clock tower, I knew there was a way to Neverland... Oh right! It was the second star on the right, straight on to morning. Just go to that star and I'll get back.

???: So, it seems this world is saved.

Hearing the voice made me jolt, cursing under my breath when hitting my arm from it.

Kitty: Do all villains need to have a skill to make everyone scared like that???

Appearing near me, I saw it was Hook, I thought he was still on the ship fighting with Peter or Sora's team? Why is he here of all places?

Tamashi: Just don't let your guard down.

Right, with him being- Since when did you get back!?

Tamashi: I just finished my drive, what did I miss?

Chronos being a chaotic menace again, and fighting a Heartless called the Phantom that if you don't beat the clock then goodbye to your own time. It was either let the world be swallowed, or have to lose Kairi for now.

Tamashi: Damn. That sucks. But hey, think of it this way, Chronos isn't gonna kill anyone since they need to be alive for what he needs to happen?

Not him, he holds no interest in Kingdom Hearts. Only to use everyone as his own puppets... But I don't believe that's all it is.

Tamashi: You think there's a bigger scheme at work?

Much bigger than we know of right now.

Tamashi: Then I would do keep in mind that when we do get to Hollow, keep your guard up at all times. Even if it means having Oathkeeper out to be ready for a surprise attack.

Chronos still wants the fight, so I doubt it would be a case of surprise attacks. What's annoying me, is what he really wants it for...

Tamashi: Just advice was all. It's your choice how to handle this. And I don't blame you.

Thanks, Tamashi.

Tamashi: Well, I'll let you have your talk with Hook. I wonder what his lying bitch ass wants with you.

Trying not to laugh at what Tamashi said, I looked at Hook while sitting up.

Kitty: I thought the Captain always stayed with the ship. What are you doing here?

Captain Hook: Lass. I think we both know what Chronos has plans for.

Kitty: Princesses of Hearts, power of the heart, world domination. Who knows specifically what he wants.

Captain Hook: And what about, "special" rendezvous with a "certain" someone?

Kitty: Can we cut the crypticness for now?

Captain Hook: I know you and Chronos made a deal to fight each other at Hollow Bastion.

I looked at Hook surprised, before groaning and burying my face in my hands.

Kitty: Of freaking course he would say that... Hades did mention needing me alive because you all know about my heart too. Doubt with Chronos that's the only reason I'm still alive though.

Captain Hook: I would believe he's playing hunter to watch you in terms of wanting to know what you can do.

I glanced at Hook, before looking back to the clock on the tower. That's going to haunt me for a while.

Kitty: That's one way to put it... He could be watching you as well right now though.

Captain Hook: With what he needs to be preparing for? I doubt it.

Kitty: You're a fool for that right now. Chronos could be watching right now to see if I'm still even alive right now. And to check on you, seeing if you're doing your job. He's playing everyone for fools, pulling the strings with everyone as his puppet. Are you really going to still risk being here right now?

Captain Hook: Lass, if I didn't know anything, would I be talking to you right now?

In response, I got my Keyblade back out and put some fire magic on the tip.

Kitty: Two things, Hook. First, you can be a liar. Silver tongued to get your own way. Secondly, the fire can be a message from a witch. Choose wisely whether you're lying or not right now, because I'm not going to keep messing around.

Captain Hook: "From a wit-" Maleficent is still alive!?

Kitty: Yep.

Captain Hook: Thank goodness. I'm glad she is somewhere safe.

Hearing the sincerity in Hook's voice took me by surprise. Seems Maleficent does have people that care for her after all, got to tell her that.

Kitty: Safe enough where Chronos wouldn't get to her anytime soon.

Captain Hook: What do you mean?

Kitty: My secret. Not risking spilling any information like that with the stalker in Hollow.

Captain Hook: Fair enough.

Kitty: But the main subject still, why exactly are you talking to me about this?

Captain Hook: Because with Chronos, I can tell he's using us like pawns. That is supposed to be MY thing.

My curiosity turned into a deadpan expression.

Kitty: Not giving the best impression right now on whether this is a lie or not...

Captain Hook: Okay, that was my mistake. Look, thing is, where Maleficent had order and allowed us the time to be prepared, Chronos just expects us to give results the best way possible, even if it means having us at a disadvantage by rushing things. I do not like being a fool running his errands.

When thinking back to Astral when I made the deal, it was all making more sense what he really meant then... But feeling the same feeling when being watched, it wasn't the right time to talk about this.

Kitty: Chronos is watching right now... We'll need a better place to talk.

Captain Hook: I believe I may have a place. It's somewhere I haven't shown Chronos yet, but I believe we can talk there in peace.

Kitty: How do we get there?

Captain Hook: Unless you have a vessel or a portal we can go through, a flying dinghy might be the only thing. Powered by Pixie Dust of course.

Captain Hook said while holding up an entrapped Tinker Bell inside the lantern.

Kitty: Tinker Bell?!

Captain Hook: Okay, look, I know this looks bad from a very specific perspective, but it was either wait for the fight on the ship to stop or hurry and use the confusion to find you. Thankfully, knowing Chronos, he would take you to the other part of this world that connects here. To think the Keyhole was in this version.

Kitty: It was a surprise for sure, but a good hiding place too.

Captain Hook: What better way to keep a Keyhole safe than placing it where no one can reach unless you can fly.

Kitty: That's some of the best security for sure. Anyway, you know Peter is going to be really annoyed when noticing a missing fairy right?

Captain Hook: I believe needing to deal with Chronos is much more important than a missing fairy, not to mention how Chronos is planning something behind ALL of our backs.

Kitty: Touche. We really should just get going though.

Captain Hook: Smee! Bring the dinghy starboard bow! We're taking off!

As I watched in confusion, I then saw Smee beginning to row the boat glittering in Pixie Dust bringing the right side of the boat where Hook and I can get on.

Captain Hook: Didn't believe me when I said we were using a boat like this, did you?

Kitty: Unexpected, but somehow expected. Who would ever think they'd ride a boat ran on pixie dust though?

Captain Hook: Which makes it the best way to stay under the radar of being a small target to spot.

Kitty: Yeah, yeah, Captain of all the good points.

Getting on the ship with Hook, Smee began to row the boat that will take us back to Neverland, I looked at Tink to see she was pissed with how she was still trapped in the lantern still.

Kitty: Was it still really needed to just put Tink in a lantern like this?

Captain Hook: Do you REALLY think after the many times Peter Pan and I have had our bouts that she would trust me easily???

Kitty: Did you even TRY???

Captain Hook: If being honest... I was in a bit of a rush to get here from when I saw you getting pushed through a portal.

I looked at Hook surprised, not expecting he would rush like that. But when hearing the annoyed wing flapping from Tink, I may have one way to calm her down as I looked back at her.

Kitty: Hey Tink, if I get you out the lantern, can you just get us to our destination and back with the dust?

Tink crossed her arms and turned her back to me as if I had to sweeten my end of the deal to her.

Kitty: The sooner we get back to the ship, the sooner you're back with Peter.

Tink looked back towards me slightly, but gave a sigh as she did want out of the lantern badly. She stood up and dusted herself off before turning towards me. Hoping that's a yes from her, I opened the small door on the lantern as she flew out fast and around the ship as if screaming out "Freedom!"

Captain Hook: What are you doing!?

Kitty: Asking for help. Considering Tink would want to get back to the ship as soon as possible too, it works out.

When Tink finished flying around, I sighed with relief when seeing her helping by putting more Pixie Dust on the ship to help make it move faster and fly easier.

Kitty: Thank you, Tink!

Tink just huffed as if still reluctant to help, finishing the dust before sitting back on the table the lantern was on. When Smee continued the steering, he called out to Hook.

Smee: Captain! It's moving much easier than earlier! We may get there earlier than expected.

Hook looked at Smee and then to me.

Captain Hook: Well, I guess we have the girl to thank for the assistance on this one.

Kitty: Kitty. My name is Kitty.

Captain Hook: Smee! To Skull Rock! Where my talk with "Kitty" shall commence!

Smee: Yes Captain!

With the destination set for a... Nice sounding place... The journey was smoother than expected, arriving with the amazement of Smee from how fast it was to really get there.

Location: Skull Rock.

Coming to the location, the waves were a little rough, had we been going by the water. Thanks to the pixie dust, we were able to get there smoothly and touch down on the rocky surface of the location.

Captain Hook: We're here. Smee! Stay with the boat. In case of a quick getaway in time.

With agreement from Smee, he stayed on the boat and got it prepared for a getaway if needed. Hook got off the boat as I stayed on for a moment to look around, shivering a little from the eerie feeling. It lives up to the name for sure.

Captain Hook: Kitty, are you following?

Kitty: Yeah, yeah, I'm coming.

Talking with a pirate on a rock that looks like a skull... Only in this world would these things happen... Getting off the boat, it was a seriously rough area where you had to keep watching your step to avoid tripping or falling.

Kitty: Why come here for the talk, Hook? And how does Chronos not even know of this?

Captain Hook: Because this is the least place he'd expect a talk to go down. Especially with how Peter Pan and the others are currently fighting the Heartless on the ship still.

Kitty: They're going to notice that you or Smee aren't on the ship at some point though. That group fights fast.

Captain Hook: That's why we need to get this talk done as soon as we can. As soon as Chronos loses interest in the others, he'll begin looking for you. And I rather not give Chronos a reason to harm me next.

Kitty: You mean like the mustache? Looks like it was just ripped off and hard.

Captain Hook: Yes, just like-

He suddenly stopped talking and then looked at me.

Captain Hook: You saw that moment, didn't you??

All I did was just whistle innocently while looking anywhere but Hook.

Kitty: Well I wasn't planning on just being locked up like a prisoner. It was just... Bad timing to see that.

Captain Hook: Then you know just as much as how I do not wish to be on his bad side, but sooner or later, he'll turn his anger towards me.

Kitty: No one wants to deal with that guy at all, but agreed on that. Where are we even meant to go to talk on this rock? Wrong place would just leave us wide open to be seen.

Hook pointed to inside the place we were at.

Captain Hook: Skull Rock isn't just a landmark. It also has a cave we can go into and have our talk.

Good thing was the hiding spot, bad thing was it looked worse to move in there and even worse with not much light.

Kitty: Lead the way then.

Hook began to go into the cave as he led the way to where we needed to go. The further we went in, the less light there was to see. Having an idea, I made a little light in my hand, small enough to go unnoticed but enough to at least see a few steps ahead.

Captain Hook: Ah, very resourceful.

Kitty: Thank you, it's at least helpful to see to not tr- Gah!

And it would be the jinx when the teeniest rock would fall on the path and make me stumble. That Phantom had better be one time or I'm not playing nice with it again... Rushing to my side, Hook checked on me.

Captain Hook: Are you okay?

Kitty: I'm fine... We just need to keep moving to avoid getting caught.

Captain Hook: Of course. Would you lead the way?

I nodded as I gritted my teeth when it felt like a numbing pain in my leg. That doesn't usually last too long though. But with the area getting more risky, I tried making a small string of light a few feet from each other to light the area more. And with the sweetest relief, the cave wasn't much further. With almost being there, the light helped to see any hazards as we made it to the cave with not much trouble.

Captain Hook: This seems to be good enough.

Kitty: It's hidden, that's the best thing.

Snapping my fingers to remove the string of lights, I just made one more to float in the cave to still be able to see. As we entered the cave, I sat and leant against the wall to talk.

Kitty: Okay, so what's going on that you'd risk wrath to talk about it?

Captain Hook: From observing Chronos, I hear he's making secret deals...

Kitty: Maleficent did say he was working with two people, both already bad enough news on their own...

Captain Hook: Aye.

Kitty: Any idea what the deals may be though?

Captain Hook: From what I hear, he isn't making the Keyhole on Hollow Bastion for himself or us, but for the two people he's working with.

Kitty: One may hopefully not be here right now, it's been a while since he's been spotted. But it wouldn't be the goal Maleficent or any of your group was after, or they could have just tried working with you... What would the motive even be then?

Captain Hook: Knowing one man's trick to another, I would believe that the three have made a deal that helps all three of them out. And it involves you being alone with Chronos...

If my heart hadn't already felt fear before, it sure did now with it skipping many beats.

Captain Hook: Because if you gain ANY assistance, he wouldn't hesitate to harm anyone to set an example in a fight between you two.

Kitty: Kill, it would be worse than harm. Something he said himself in one of those created worlds. All villains are being set up to fall to bring our hopes up to crash down. No use and it's just us next on the list. Maleficent also... Had a premonition... Her own demise. Never saw who, but it could only be Chronos... That could just be an example of no help...

Captain Hook: She did? Poor girl... I only wished I could have been more of a help...

Kitty: If it would help, I can tell her this. It would mean more than can be expressed how you care like this.

Captain Hook: Would you please be kind and tell me, how does she perish...? Where she is to die...?

I bit my lip as premonitions are the most horrible things to experience, but it would be worse to not tell.

Kitty: Traverse Town. Never said what district though. It was... A piercing pain in her back and chest, then just feeling like she was being shocked. That's when she wakes up, and that's all I know...

Captain Hook: The poor girl... Thrusted from her base of command, put on the run and threatened through dreams...

Kitty: Maleficent... Purposely wanted to see this... To see it to know what she can do before it happens, not to be in anyone's debt.

Captain Hook: So, to deduce what is happening, she came to you for help and you are using some means to keep her concealed...? Is that right?

Kitty: You're right. Information for protection. That's the deal, or alliance really, we made. I got info on the villains and Hollow Bastion, I keep her safe.

Captain Hook: That Maleficent, working with those that have a shared objective.

Kitty: Isn't that what you're kind of doing now?

Captain Hook: Yes, but only because Chronos will eventually sacrifice me for his purpose. Tying up loose ends.

Kitty: Fair point... You're really not scared that the time of being a sacrifice will come really soon if caught right now?

Captain Hook: Whether or not it will happen sooner or later, all I know is that knowing Chronos, seeing me as a pawn will eventually cause me to lose mine.

Kitty: Then the group needs to learn of all this and fast. Does Oogie Boogie feel the same way you feel about Chronos?

Captain Hook: That oaf full of bugs??? As long as there is one insect that was assimilated into that bagged body of his, he'll come back again and again!

I groaned and rested my head back against the wall, resisting the urge to bang it from how much of a nuisance that would be.

Kitty: Well that could be the greatest pain to deal with...

Captain Hook: Believe me, him and his little brat minions are a pain to deal with.

Kitty: Minions?

Captain Hook: They're like Heartless, but more mischievous because they're kids!

Kitty: Ah, that makes sense. They wouldn't be that bad then, they're more likely just being manipulated or toyed around with by the bug man.

Captain Hook: I wouldn't be so sure of that. Considering the fact they seem to get a high off of working for him and even when they're pranking those they find to be their targets.

Kitty: Okay, yeah... That's troubling...

Captain Hook: Do not take those kids lightly.

Kitty: Aye, aye, Captain.

Captain Hook: Please, call me James.

Kitty: James? So your name isn't actually Captain Hook? Now that's a surprise!

Though I know that wasn't actually his name, I needed some joking sarcasm before I got too lost in the thoughts on what's been talked about. This is going to be fun to tell the others, especially if they assume Hook, or James did something with my injuries right now.

Captain James: You act as if you don't believe me? I swear on my right hand that is indeed my first name.

I bit my lip and shook my head, but the laughter kept coming in my voice.

Kitty: Joking, just joking. James.

Captain James: Good. Because establishing trust is key right now. And right now, with how Chronos is wanting to face you, you need every edge you can get on him.

Kitty: Go back and time and stop my past self from playing into his hands?

Captain James: If that were possible, I'd have gone back in time and stopped Peter Pan from taking my hand and feeding it to the rotten croc!

Kitty: How did that even happen?

As if ready to tell a story, Hook began to tell a tale.

Captain James: There I was, enjoying my voyage to sea with my crew of pirates. We had just found some treasure in the ocean of this land. But then, coming from the sky, a boy in green and a red feather in his cap. He was quick, agile, and used his flight to his advantage. The boy and I had then gotten into a single combat fight. My victory was assured, but right when I was about to send him overboard, he cheated to hover in the air when I thrusted and cut my hand off!! Fell did my hand into the water and the crocodile that ate it now has a taste for me ever since!!

Hearing what happened to the hand was enough to make me wince hard at the thought. No way anyone would want to be chased by a crocodile!

Kitty: That is an extremely big ouch! No surprise the hate for Peter and the croc there.

Captain James: I may be a pirate, but when I swear on something, I always keep to what I say. Make me swear to not lay a hand on your friends, I won't.

Kitty: That would be amazing, but no promises on how they'd react when getting back. As far as it may seem, it could be a... Really bad kidnapping or something along those lines.

Captain James: That... Would make it seem like that.

Kitty: I can try and explain what happened before they get on the offense. But it would be best to move soon before they freak out... Too much.

Captain James: Of course. Worrying your friends is not what I want to do to you or them.

Kitty: For someone who's considered a villian, you have a really kind heart.

Captain James: I'm kind when I want to be. My hatred stems for Peter Pan after all the trouble he has caused for me.

Kitty: It would be hard not to hate someone after losing a hand to them, that's for sure.

Captain James: And that is why I choose not to chase that infernal Pan right now. With Chronos controlling everything useful to him, who knows how much time left I have.

Kitty: Maybe just try not to worry about the time left, and just focus on what you want to do. Not going to be fun just worrying about when someone could strike.

Captain James: And I rather work on the plans to deal with Chronos. Or at the very least, safety until Chronos is dealt with...

Kitty: Safety would be the best option, that's for sure... A plan is helpful too.

As we were talking, we were heading back to the ship and managed to get out of that creepy rock without any trouble this time.

Captain James: Smee, anything to report while we were away?

Smee: There wasn't any trouble per say... But it did feel as if someone was waiting, just watching the ship before the feeling left when you started coming back.

Captain James: Was it a terrible feeling? Like someone could kill you at any moment??

Smee thought about it, before nodding. That was all the confirmation needed to know who was here...

Captain James: Lass, don't show any fear or fright right now. Chronos...

Kitty: Was here, and was waiting for us... He knows something is up...

Feeling something poking my back, I could feel it was Hook's hook.

Captain James: Pretend you are my prisoner. Don't make any sudden moves.

With a subtle nod of understanding, James and I had to pretend it was like a kidnapping happened as we got on the boat and Smee got it moving. But when heading back, the feeling of dread from all of us just grew stronger.

Captain James: ...

James didn't even speak, knowing how strong the feeling had gotten. It was as if he could sense Chronos' stare on us as much as I did. No words could even be said, only waiting for the trouble the moment we stepped back on the ship as the journey went on silently.

Location: Captain Hook's ship.

Coming back to the ship, the dinghy lost the remaining pixie dust it had left as we were having to take to the waves to get back to the ship.

Smee: Almost there, Captain. We're almost back to the ship.

Captain James: Good, Mr. Smee. Very good.

I didn't even say anything, the feeling of being watched growing much stronger then before to show Chronos really was waiting. When we got close to the ship, we climbed up the ladder to get back onto the deck. Smee went first, then Hook, then me. When we got back onto the deck, Tink was quick to fly back over to where Peter was as there was a cry from Goofy to the others.

Goofy: There she is! She's with the Captain!

Donald: Kitty!

Donald ran up with Goofy, the others following close behind as Donald used Cure to help with my injuries..

Beat: What the heck happened?!

Sora: And what about all the injuries?!

Riku: Hook! What did you do?!

Captain James: I beat her after she defeated a Heartless that was about to take this world. I took her captive.

Before the others could react, the voice I was waiting for spoke up.

Chronos: Oh? Is that really so?

Captain James: C-C-C-C-C-Chronos...!

Chronos was walking closer, slowly as to bring more fear to James.

Chronos: Because from the way it seemed... You seemed to care more than harm...

James seemed to be on edge with how Chronos talked, as I hissed and stood in front of him.

Kitty: What does it matter to you? You practically tried to send me to my death pushing me through the portal to that Phantom! Or are you just annoyed I'm still alive?

Chronos: If I didn't believe in your abilities, you wouldn't have pushed yourself. All I want is to see a challenge.

Kitty: "Challenge?" Is that what you're calling that game of yours now...?

Chronos: Take it as you will. But for me, I refuse to be disappointed.

Kitty: You're nothing but a twisted bastard... You can say what you want, but all you wanted was Kairi...

Sora: Where... Is Kairi...?

Chronos: That is a very good question, child. I believe your "friend" knows?

I was so close to doing something reckless myself, but stopped myself as I looked at the group.

Kitty: I'm so sorry... When pushed through the portal, Chronos gave the worst choice possible... Either fight the Phantom to save this world and get the Gummi Block needed to travel to Hollow Bastion, and in the process lose Kairi... Or save Kairi and lose this world and access to Hollow...

Chronos: She chose to save this world and gave me Kairi to save for later.

Kitty: Only because Kairi would be at Hollow. I still wouldn't have just trusted her around you if there was another choice.

Hearing that coming from me, Sora seemed to charge in towards Chronos ready to attack him.

Sora: You! Give us back Kairi!

Before Sora could even attempt anything, both Riku and myself held him back.

Riku: Sora, you need to keep calm!

Kitty: We'll get Kairi back!

Chronos turned towards Sora and Riku as if getting ready for a fight.

Chronos: So, you wish to fight me, child?

Sora: If it means getting my friend back, I will!

Riku: Sora! You're not thinking straight! Calm down!!

Sora: How am I meant to stay calm when Kairi is in danger?!

Chronos began to walk slowly towards Sora and Riku as he had a look in his helmet's eye.

Chronos: Considering that one day you both get stronger, both of you could even pose a threat to me...

Sora did stop struggling, Riku letting go for now but getting his weapon out from feeling danger coming.

Riku: That would be the day to look forward to.

Chronos: Then do you wish to test your luck with me?

As Chronos kept getting closer, it was James who took action as the group looked at him surprised.

Captain James: Seems cruel even for you to be targeting children like that. And yet, with all that power, you could do so much better with it.

Goofy: Hook just... Defended the two...?

Kitty: Hook?! What are you doing...?!

Captain James: Chronos, you're nothing more than a coward and a cheat. I know I have my moments of underhanded tactics, but you are by far the worst when toying with your prey and driving chaos in someone's minds.

Chronos' attention went from Sora and Riku to James, the eye glowing a brighter red.

Chronos: So you're betraying the group...?

Captain James: Pfft. In what way? This "group" you speak of? It's nothing but a farce at this point. All you're doing is playing second fiddle in working for someone else. You don't want what's happening at Hollow Bastion, you're just wanting to target what you think can be an easy target.

Chronos: What makes you so sure of all you're saying, "Captain?"

Captain James: Well, if there is one thing I am, is a man of my words. In my honor as someone who believes you are the biggest threat I have EVER met in my life, I'd gladly face you in combat!!

As my eyes widened when hearing what was said, the others reacted with only one word.

Everyone but Kitty: WHAT?!

Kitty: This is just a death wish...!

Captain James: And yet, as someone who claimed with my honor, I refuse to go back on my word. Chronos! I just challenged you to combat! Does that surprise you!? That I rather die than be a pawn under your palms!!??

Chronos: Well this would be a first to see someone want to die by my hands... But if that's what you wish...

Getting his swords out, Chronos' eye grew brighter from the bloodlust.

Chronos: Then I'll be glad to give you what you want!

Chronos soon charged forward as he and James clashed blades with each other. Both Chronos and James had one of their blades pushing against the other, but I soon saw Chronos raise his other blade up.

Kitty: Watch out! He's about to attack again!!

Chronos began to strike down with the sword in his left hand, but James raised his left arm and snake the hook around the blade to redirect it away from him.

Chronos: Wh-What!?

Captain James: You think I'm rusty in the form of combat? You forget that I faced Peter Pan! Where he used cheap tricks to win his fights all the time. So you think I'm just going to lay down my own life, and let you take me down using a cheap trick during our fight!?

James then lifted his right leg and thrusted it to push Chronos away from him.

Chronos: You insolent man! You dare to talk down on me!?

Captain James: You gave no one a chance for themselves! It was either serve you, or die!! I rather fight you than just serve you!!

Chronos: Then you can just die like the fool you are! Did you think it wouldn't be noticed how you were teaming up with one of those "heroes?"

Everyone seemed to be surprised when hearing what Chronos claimed as James just smirked.

Captain James: And yet, while you were busy, I know a whole lot more than you could EVER know in your life!!

Chronos: And what would THAT even be?!

Captain James: Heh~ Wouldn't you like to know~?

Chronos growled in frustration from the way James was talking, gripping onto his blades more.

Chronos: The more you speak of that, the more you risk a more painful death...

Captain James: Yet, even with my life threatened, you can kill me, but my secrets go to my grave!!

Chronos: Then tell one thing at least.... What were you even doing teaming up with that girl?!

Captain James: Because I refused to allow myself to be used by the likes of you any further!!

Chronos: And you think teaming up was the best way to do it? Pathetic!

Captain James: If it means getting rid of a monster like you!? I'll gladly do it!!

James then lunged to exchange blows with his and Chronos' blades. Even though Chronos used strikes that would be for attacking directly, James' swordsmanship was able to allow him to block simultaneous attacks while using his hook at times to block when Chronos would have the chance to hit him. But with it, he was able to keep avoiding the damage.

Captain James: What's the matter, "Boss?" Can't keep up!? Go ahead!! Use your "Power" and get the upper hand on me!!

Chronos: Grrr...! Shut up!

Captain James: Even when you try to hide it, I know it'll infuriate you should you use your power to defeat me now! If you do, it'll show that even I could have the chance!!

Chronos: Just keep talking... It will make killing you more and more enjoyable!

James smirked as he angled his blade to block not one, but two strikes from Chronos before directing them away above Chronos' head and tossing a miniature bomb up in front of his face.

Captain James: A present as a "farewell" gift~?

Chronos: Sh-Shit!!

James quickly ducked behind a barrel before it blew up to send Chronos flying into a wall!

Chronos: You meddlesome pirate!!!

Looking towards me, James yelled at me.

Captain James: Get your friends and get out of here! Let this be a lesson that Captain James Bartholomew Hook, lays down his life to do what was right!!!

Kitty: You're seriously just going to sacrifice your life like this?!

Captain James: My life is already forfeit!! All my crew was gone after the Heartless took them! All I have left is my pride as a pirate and Smee who has been nothing, but loyal to me!! If I am to go down, I'll go down fighting on the ship, The Jolly Roger, I have sailed with my crew!!

Kitty: You're insane!

Captain James: Yet, with him already knowing of my talk with you, he would have killed me eventually. Reaching out to you due to you being his target, was the only time I could do it. Learn what you see here, and do not let his flaunting power get to you. If I can handle him as I am, so can you!!

I looked at James, wishing that fate wasn't so cruel on Chronos knowing what happened and giving a soft nod and smile.

Kitty: Aye, aye, Captain James.

As if surprised with how I called Hook by his first name, Sora looked at me.

Sora: Wait, "James?"

Riku: You DID talk to him???

Kitty: Yes, we did talk and I'll explain. But not the main issue, we got to go!

Chronos: No! You won't be- Augh!!

Looking at Chronos, James had tossed another bomb to keep Chronos at bay.

Captain James: Stop lollygagging around! I'm holding him back from you all so you can escape! GO! YOU TOO PAN!! Before he targets you next, get your friend out of here!!!

Peter Pan: To think the codfish would do something like this...

Taking Wendy into his arms, Peter Pan began to get Wendy away from this world and back to hers while we began flying after Peter to get away from here.

Chronos: Hook! I'll kill you!!!

Captain James: That's Captain James! Not Hook!!!

Chronos got one of his blades and began to combat James once more as the sounds of their fight could be heard less and less. I looked back to see James still fighting with every ounce of his life. But just before we got too far, James looked up and gave a quick pirate salute, which I returned before flying faster to get out of Neverland.

Location: Clock Tower

As everyone arrived at the Clock Tower, we all just rested against the surface where we could sit as some of us didn't even feel like doing anything with how everything happened so fast in Neverland. Some seemed exhausted, some full of questions, and some thinking back to how the fight with Chronos and James happened. I kept looking at the second star to the right as I was just at a loss for words from all I experienced. Maleficent said to be careful about James, but never would I have thought he'd have wanted to try and save us. Looking towards where Sora and Peter Pan were, I could see Tink flying around Sora and them talking to each other. I looked over to see Donald and Goofy just talking to each other while looking at the night sky. Beat was on the opposite end leaning against the wall and thinking about something deeply. Riku seemed to be trying to come to terms with seeing someone he met before sacrificing themselves. Even if James was with the villains, even some can be helpful, even if it means when someone truly deadly were to appear. Ironic, isn't it? Someone that would have been from the villains, would be what saves us from Chronos this time? Maybe... Just maybe... There is always hope...? After Peter and Wendy had to say their goodbyes, we too went on our way as Wayfinder soon began to take us back up into space.

Location: Gummi Ship - Space

As the ship left the world, we went back into space to begin heading to the next destination.

Wayfinder (AI): So, what fun did you all have this time?

Donald: Oh such amazing fun...! The best world ever...!

Goofy: Wait, I thought while we were fighting the Heartless, I thought you hated this world with how confusing the ship was??

Donald: I WASN'T BEING SERIOUS!

Goofy: You weren't?

Riku: Guys... Can you just... Not right now...? There's something more important to discuss about that world...

Riku looked towards me as if wanting to hear what needed to be said.

Riku: Kitty, you were the last to talk to the Captain last, what did you and he talk about?

As I looked back from the world to the group, I could see even Jiminy listening to write this down.

Kitty: Where to start... Well the best way to summarise to give an idea would be... Even the villains are fighting against Chronos as we are.

When hearing what I just said, it seemed everyone was surprised to hear that from myself saying that.

Kitty: It was after I ran with Kairi when Chronos had tried to take her. Hook, well James, had seen what Chronos had done when he pushed me through a portal to the clock tower to make me choose between saving the world or saving Kairi in that moment.

Riku: And given you could only do one thing or the other... You had to do what was right, correct...?

I nodded, but that decision was going to be haunting until Kairi is truly safe.

Kitty: Exactly. I only knew that Kairi would be okay with Chronos for now because... She is a Princess of Heart. Chronos wouldn't dare to attempt doing anything to her.

Upon hearing what I said, Sora and Riku seemed startled to hear that Kairi is a Princess.

Kitty: That's the only reason Chronos wanted her badly. It's bad she's not here right now, but being able to seal the Keyhole gave me this.

Getting the gummi block out of my pocket, I tossed it to Donald to keep it safe. Donald caught it and took a look.

Donald: A gummi block?

Kitty: The navigation gummi we'll need to get to Hollow Bastion. Chronos gave very much in detail of what would pop out, his information was sound. Surprising how he even gave that, but just another game to toy around with us. He knew we wouldn't just leave Kairi there, he's just messing with us again...

Sora: Well he's right we wouldn't leave Kairi! When we get there, I'll make sure to teach him not to mess with us like that!

Donald: Chronos wouldn't even give you a chance!

Sora: It's better than doing nothing!

Riku: Exactly.

Donald: See?

Riku: We'll get stronger and get Kairi back with our own strength.

Donald: OH COME ON!

As Donald groaned from being outnumbered like that, Sora and Riku were more determined than ever.

Kitty: We said we'll get Kairi back, and we're sticking to that word no matter what.

Goofy: Yeah! Because all for one and one for all!!

Donald: That's for the Three Musketeers!

Riku: Anyway, back on topic. What happened then?

As Donald groaned more from being ignored like that, I sighed from thinking back to what happened.

Kitty: When James saw what Chronos did, he got Smee, a boat and a lot of Pixie Dust to get to the clock tower. From my fight with the Phantom, the Heartless guarding that area, I was badly injured as you saw when we got back. James never did anything, only wanting to talk. I was wary at first, but agreed to talk. We went to a place James only knew about. The only reason that he risked his life to talk, was because the villains are just scared of him and he wasn't willing to keep being a pawn. If we had the chance, we were hoping to make a plan to take Chronos down or at least find safety for him.

Riku: And given what happened at the ship... He... Didn't have a choice to fight Chronos to buy us time to escape...

Kitty: As much as we hoped for the better, the moment Smee told us he felt someone watching as if waiting... We already knew what fate was waiting... James may have played the act at first, but Chronos already knew we talked. He fought to get our escape, but also the last act to show he's not going down the pawn he was seen as...

Jiminy: Poor man... But if he felt that way... And Ursula having lost a tentacle to presumably Chronos...

I looked back to the world, remaining silent a moment before looking back at the group with only one question.

Kitty: We've been fighting each other as Heroes and Villains. But this whole time, have we really ALL been fighting the same enemy...?

Sora: The same enemy...?

Kitty: Chronos. We're all fighting against Chronos. The villains to avoid being pawns in his acts, us to save the worlds and stop his plans. But everyone just kept falling into his twisted games. We just didn't know, because we never had the chance to learn... And when we did, we saw what happened when someone spoke out of line....

Riku: Had I stayed... I fear I would have been a pawn...

Kitty: Maleficent... Really helped keep you safe by getting you to join this group instead of staying... It really would have been a case of being a pawn otherwise...

Riku: Guess I should thank her when I get the chance... If she shows up again...

Kitty: Hopefully she's safe wherever she is... But I'm sure of one thing, she'd be happy to know you're safe and taken care of here.

As much as I wanted to tell where Maleficent was, things have already changed so much from this one world, it wouldn't be right to make things worse with that now.

Riku: Then I'm really going to have to say thank you next time I see her... Hopefully that could be the next world.

When the mention of the next world was spoken, Wayfinder spoke up again.

Wayfinder (AI): As you were in the world, I was able to get enough power back to work out the route to the next destination. Until a new Navi-Gummi is installed, this is the last world we can get to at the moment. If everyone is ready, I can begin the route to Halloween Town.

Kitty: Would everyone be ready to go?

Feeling confident about the next destination, everyone felt like they wanted to start going to the next world as soon as they could.

Sora: Always!

Riku: Let's go.

Donald: No point waiting around!

Goofy: Ready to go.

Beat: I wanna beat more Heartless already!

Everyone looked at Beat for the last comment with a mixture of eye rolls and laughter, but it did help ease some of the stress from this world down. As Wayfinder began the journey to Halloween Town, we all headed back to our rooms to get some rest. But as for me, it was another trip to the Time Chamber. With Hollow coming soon, I needed to be prepared as much as possible. James may have said I could handle Chronos, but it's not a chance I can take... If one of my premonitions really comes true... Then it's not just Maleficent that is seeing her own demise...

Third point of view

World: Neverland

Location: Pirate Ship - Deck

Panting could be heard as some blood trickled onto the deck of the ship. Both Chronos and Captain James were both getting exhausted as each was looking beat up from the damage each was able to produce.

Captain James: Had... Enough... Ha... Ha...

Chronos: You are ReALey... GEttINg oN mY nErveS...

Upon hearing Chronos' voice glitching out, he began to chuckle.

Captain James: Sorry, what was that? You seem to be having a malfunction there. I'm no specialist on machines, but maybe your robot army can help repair your stuff?

James began to laugh while coughing up some blood as he got up and leaned against the wall and began to get closer to Chronos.

Captain James: So... You lost your swords, and took great damage from my bombs... Any last words before I deal the final blow...?

Chronos said nothing as his eye began to glitch out. Captain James lifted his sword and began to strike down, but in the next moment, he began to cough up a lot of blood before looking down to see a fist through his chest with blood on his hand.

Captain James: S-So... Your true nature showed itself...

Chronos said nothing as James began to chuckle before laughing.

Captain James: I forced you to use your power to deal the final blow...~ How grand...~ Instead of you getting the last laugh, I get it as you had to use your power to help you win this fight when I had no powers...~!

Captain James kept laughing before it began to softly get weaker and weaker.

Captain James: I always knew I wouldn't come out of this fight alive, but if I had to do something before my light goes out... I try anything to make sure I leave a lasting mark...~

Dropping a bomb, the fuse was light as Chronos was trying to get his hand out of Captain James' chest. Giving one last good pull, Chronos began to rush for the port side of the ship and jumped off. When he did, the bomb went off as he was propelled into the ocean. Floating on the surface, Chronos thought to himself as he looked at the burning ship.

Chronos: (Damn pirate... Right up to the end he's always annoying me...)

Being enveloped in Darkness, Chronos retreats back to Hollow Bastion to recover his wounds and rest up.

Chapter 17. End.