The Land of Departure is just how Riku remembers it. He's only been to this world a handful of times after defeating Xemnas. But to see what was supposed to be his new home before him, he realizes just how much he's tried to give up. Kairi still clings onto his arm; not wanting to let go just yet.

She chances a glance up at him, "Can they follow us?"

"Probably. But we're being given a chance to figure this out and strike back."

Kairi isn't sure why he won't look at her but she doesn't get the opportunity to think about it when she hears the clack of heels coming down the stairs. She smiles at the blue-haired woman that comes to a stop before them. This is when Kairi lets go of Riku; long enough to rush forward and give the older female a hug.

Riku stays still as a statue, "Master Aqua."

"I'm glad you both made it here safely." She pats the top of Kairi's head and makes all of the tension leave her. "Terra and Ven already left with King Mickey to set up protection for the Princesses."

Aqua pulls away from Kairi and turns. Her blue and white cloths flail out around her legs as she takes Kairi's hand. Beginning to lead them back up to the throne room, Riku can't help but doubt this will all work. "Is that enough?"

"Until we know more it'll have to do."

Riku doesn't pay much attention to what Aqua and Kairi chatter about as they climb the large staircase. He's trying too hard to keep his body from giving into the need for nourishment. It doesn't help that he used a corridor to get here either. He knows he's nearing his limit and all he wants to do is ask Vincent why – why for any of this?

Each step seems to get farther and farther away. His vision begins to sway and his feet feel like lead weights. It's just when Aqua and Kairi get to the top that they glance back, having just asked for Riku's opinion without receiving a response.

"Riku!"

Aqua goes to dart forward and get back down the stairs fast enough; they both know she won't make it. She stops at the last second with her breath catching in her throat. A Keyblade Glider vanishes mid-air along with the armor that the man had donned on his way in. He lands several steps below Riku just in time to catch him.

Brunet hair sways at the sides of his face as he dips his head down, checking to make sure that Riku is okay. He sweeps the younger man up into his arms without a moment of hesitation. Aqua, however, breathes a sigh of relief. "Thank goodness…"

A second later and another lands. He dismisses his glider and the armor before rushing up the stairs. His blond tresses bounce atop his head until he finally comes to a stop behind his dear friend. "That was really cool, Terra!" he exclaims as they begin up to where Aqua waits.

Aqua's concerned gaze lingers on Riku's furrowed brow as Terra gets close. "Take him to his room and I'll come-"

"He's fine. I'm sure he's just exhausted from having to bring Kairi and himself here."

"Terra," her voice is stern.

But it doesn't bother the man in the slightest. He merely walks away, leaving the three standing there. Aqua heaves a sigh and glances down at the blond, "Alright Ven, let's go discuss what sort of spells we should set up."

He looks just as worried but he doesn't question Terra's actions anymore than Aqua. Instead, they all file into the building after Terra. As they get to the throne room Kairi casts a glance down the hall that leads to the rooms. She just hopes that Riku will be okay.

Aqua notices and places a hand on her shoulder, "I'll tell you all I know when we're done."

(x)(x)(x)

Terra stands up from the chair he's been sitting in, waiting for Riku to wake up, and moves toward the bed. His young apprentice is still out cold yet there hasn't been a trace of peaceful sleep on his face. Terra reaches down and brushes his fingers through the silver colored bangs.

"Terra…"

He stills and quickly withdraws his hand. Not that he dares turn around. He doesn't want Aqua to see the frustration on his face.

"There's nothing you could have done."

Clenching his fists at his sides, Terra has to stop himself from wanting to get loud. "There's a lot I should have done."

"Master wouldn't want you to dwell in the past."

"He wouldn't want me to keep making the same mistakes either."

"Terra..." Her gentle voice has a sigh leaving his lips. She knows not to push too hard, just enough. Turning, she prepares to leave him alone with his charge. "If you need anything, let me know."

Once the door shuts he can't help but try to catch his breath. He's so angry with himself that he can't stand it. All he's done is either not help or make things worse since the day he met this child.

Terra slumps down onto the edge of the bed and leans forward; head resting in his hands. That day he saw a kid that looked so much like himself; bright eyes, promising future. Yet he was so vastly different.

"You're stronger than I'll ever be."

There's a rustle of movement behind him as Riku begins to stir. His eyes slowly open and he's grateful that the only light in the room is from the lamp beside the bed. Lolling his head to the side he's surprised to see the brunet and not Aqua or Kairi.

"Terra?"

Said man straightens and glances over to him, "How are you doing?"

Riku quickly averts his eyes but it's too late. The crease between Terra's eyes is already forming. He debates on simply returning to wearing that accursed blindfold at this rate. It'd be better than these looks he gets.

"Red doesn't do you justice."

He keeps his gaze on the covered window and tries to start. But Terra is already cutting him off.

"Mickey explained everything." Terra hesitates, wanting to reach out but not knowing if he should. Instead he does what he thinks is best and merely turns away, allowing Riku some peace from his stare. "Are you okay?"

"I'm fine," he states simply as he sits up. The second he's upright he finds that the burning is worse. Riku grabs at his throat and tries to breath. He pinches his eyes shut and wills it away. The harder he grits his teeth the more he can feel his fangs; can feel the need growing ever stronger.

Terra moves so that one leg is bent up onto the bed. He's reaching out for Riku, "Tell me what hurts and I'll fix it."

Riku acts suddenly, shoving Terra's arm away. "G- Go away. Hurry!" He draws his arms back to himself and grasps at his head. Fingernails bite into his scalp as he rakes his fingers up into his hair; the pain doesn't compare to the burning in his throat. "I can't- Nn…!"

At first Terra doesn't move; more out of concern than anything. He's been through many things in his life and this won't be enough to make him run away. Even so, he's cautious and rightfully so. Unable to control himself, Riku lunges for Terra.

Larger and stronger, Terra easily pins Riku down against the bed. From the way he leans over him makes struggling futile. He watches, almost helplessly so, as tears begin to form at the corners of Riku's eyes.

"You're better than this. You can overcome this, Riku."

"I..." He tries his best; trying not to take in deep breaths and closing his eyes. Although what truly calms him are the memories of Vincent that pass behind his eyelids. He can't stand that he wants to cling to him even now.

Terra sighs as he sits up. Although he drags Riku with him. "You just need blood right?"

Riku shakes his head, "I won't-"

"If you don't you'll just be putting yourself and everyone else in danger." Terra's gaze softens as he pats the top of Riku's head. "Just this once then, alright?"

He doesn't get much of a choice as Terra is already man-handling him quite a bit. "Wha-!" he tries to shout, but Terra clamps a hand over his mouth.

"Shh. Just hurry up."

The tone isn't as sharp as the words and it only distracts from the way he's nestled in Terra's lap. Not to mention the curve of his throat that's in view. The only thing blocking his chance to get at it is that high-collared shirt.

Terra lifts an arm and holds out his arm. Tugging one of the wristbands down, he gestures toward it. "If you take too much I'll hit you, happy with that?"

The grin is reassuring but the threat even more so. It allows Riku to relax. He doesn't even think of losing his senses when the bare wrist is in his grasp and not even an inch from his lips. He spares a furtive glance up at Terra but the brunet has cast his gaze elsewhere.

The second Riku digs his fangs into the skin he can feel Terra wince. But the latter doesn't tense up. He only clasps a hand to the top of Riku's head. It's not very long at all that Riku stays conjoined to the source. He's pulling away far sooner than he should but it'll have to do. He's had enough to make the sensation die down; it'll be back soon though.

Not that any of the reasoning calms the shame racing up his spine. Riku wants to slip into a deep hole when he shrinks away from Terra and climbs back toward the headboard. His legs draw up toward his chest out of instinct as Terra shifts toward him.

A hand reaches out and urges Riku to lift his head. It's then that Terra wipes his thumb over the blood lingering on the corner of Riku's mouth. It only makes Riku feel more ashamed than he already is. He chances a glance up and Terra can clearly see the silent question.

"It's the least I can do." Terra pulls away with a sigh. "If I had been there this wouldn't have happened."

Riku bites back what he wants to say, that no matter what he finds himself happy it all did. Even though it means Sora is gone and now he has to adjust to this new life. "Something would have happened either way."

A yawn breaks past Riku's lips and Terra takes that as a sign. "I'll let you get some rest," he says as he stands up.

Already laying down before Terra can get to the door, Riku mumbles, "Thanks."

(x)(x)(x)

Sleep is something that dodged Riku the rest of the night. By the time the sun rises he's already been awake for hours. Not that he can help it. Every time he closes his eyes his brain runs at a mile a second in a vain effort to figure everything out. There has to be a way to get out of this and keep Vincent safe.

Riku takes a better part of an hour searching for Aqua. Everywhere she usually is, she isn't. Finally he spots her out in the training grounds. The light of the sun gives a glow around her frame as she reclines in one of the stone chairs. He strides over to one of the other chairs and takes a seat; mumbling a, "Good morning."

Aqua smiles over to him, "Good morning, Riku. Did you sleep well?"

"Where is everyone?"

Folding her hands into her lap, Aqua glances back up to the sky. "Micky and Ven left to take Kairi to Yen Sid. It'll be safer for her there. Ven should be back soon though."

Riku feels uneasy at that; a little upset that no one bothered to ask him to do it. After all, he knows more about these creatures than they do. Aqua gives him a look, one that he knows can see everything. "I'm fine," he states while cutting his eyes away."

"No matter what, we still care about you Riku." She leans forward, elbows resting on the table. "You're a Master now but that doesn't mean you don't need help too. Tell me about that man."

She's always been understanding toward him, something that surprised Riku at first. He furtively glances for any sign of Terra; the latter won't be as calm about his unexplainable feelings. Riku tries to settle back against the chair. "His world fell to darkness and something called Chaos saved some of his friends. But it cost them their humanity."

Aqua gestures for him to continue.

Riku averts his eyes, "Sora and I had a disagreement. Vincent was there and he tried to help me."

"Are you sure?"

He snaps his eyes up to meet hers. He's frustrated with her accusing tone but he understands it in the same breath, "Yes."

Aqua can't stop her sigh, "Kairi told me he attacked you."

"It's more complicated than that. If he wanted to kill me he would have."

Standing up, she strides around the table to place a hand on his shoulder. "And you think he's trying to do everything himself without involving us?"

Riku looks up at her, a little taken back. But he doesn't get the chance to answer. There's an intense gust of wind before Ven hits the ground. He only remains on his feet a second before he collapses to his knees. Panting hard, he looks up at Aqua as she rushes to him.

"Ven! What happened?"

There's anguish in his expression, something Riku sees as he joins Aqua before the blond. "One guy ambushed us. I tried-" He lets out a relieved sigh as Aqua begins casting a healing spell. "He took Kairi. I don't know where."

"I do." They both turn to Riku, watching as he walks past them. "I'll be back."

Aqua stands, intending to go after him, "Riku, you can't just rush into things. We have to have a plan. Kairi wouldn't want you getting hurt rushing into the enemy base."

"Aqua's right. You're not going anywhere."

Riku glances over his shoulder, shooting Terra a glare. He hadn't even heard the man come out. Not that it matters to him in the slightest. He keeps a close eye on them both as Aqua dares to take a few steps closer,"Is this about Kairi or him?"

It's then that he looks away, not able to meet Aqua's knowing eyes. Terra crosses his arms over his chest and grumbles, "Getting worked up over some stranger. That's how the darkness can use a situation to overcome you."

He wants to laugh, outright laugh and shoot a snarky retort. But he doesn't want to hurt his fellow Masters in the same breath. Instead he settles for summoning forth a dark portal. He knows very well that while they've all accepted the darkness, it still sets them on edge when he frivolously calls one forth. Just before he steps through he glances over his shoulder, flashing Terra one of his trademark smirks; one that says there's no room for convincing him otherwise.

"He helped me and I'm going to help him now."

(x)(x)(x)

Riku is honest with himself when he arrives on the shore of island he used to play at as a child; the same that Sora died on. Deep down he's never doubted Vincent for a second. No matter how hard he tries to see things from the outside and that Vincent is the last person he should be running to – he has to go back to him. When no one else saw what he wanted and needed, that one man did and he tried to help.

"Riku!"

He glances up and doesn't waste a second. Rushing to the shack, he throws the door open and bolts up the stairs. Riku stumbles out the following door and across the bridge leading to the Paopu tree. He's heaving a sigh of relief when he skids to a stop. Although Vincent stands behind her, leaning against one of the coconut trees, Kairi is before him and doesn't seem to be hurt. He vaguely takes note of the satchel hanging from Vincent's shoulder, settling to ask about that later.

"What's going on?" he asks as Kairi hurries to him.

There's blood smeared on her outfit and around the few cuts on her arms and legs. "That's what I should be asking!" She spins around, pointing toward Vincent. "He won't tell me anything and neither will you."

"You don't ask the right questions."

Her glare settles onto Vincent, "Fine, why fight with us if you're always acting like you're on our side?"

"Chaos has orders. If he wasn't preoccupied with a distraction you'd be dead."

Kairi idles a moment, choosing her words carefully after considering his previous statement. "So why turn Riku in the first place?"

Vincent pushes away from the tree and begins to walk over to them. She becomes apprehensive of his tall frame as it draws near after having been drug here without a word from him. He nods toward Riku once he's before her. "He was hurting. Now move away from him."

Kairi doesn't budge. Instead she turns around and notices the way Riku seems a little distant. In fact, he hasn't heard a word they've said. He's been too busy trying to resist the urge to brush the crimson hair away from the curve of her neck. "Riku, are you okay?"

"I can help, but not while you're tempting him."

She turns back toward him only to find that Vincent won't meet her eyes, he's watching Riku's every move. "What do you mean?"

"Kairi..." is all Riku says as he gently touches her shoulder.

The red beginning to taint his blue eyes is getting darker by the second. She detests that she can do nothing but that doesn't stop her from flashing Vincent a warning glare as she walks around Riku and toward the bridge. "I'll be on the other side. Do anything funny and you'll get a Fire spell to the head."

"I would expect no less. I'll explain everything once we're done."

"Promise?"

Vincent blinks, a little surprised at the question. She reminds him of someone he knew and it makes his gaze soften. "I promise."

Satisfied, Kairi heads to the coconut tree beside the door that leads back down to the shore. She displays enough trust that she turns her back to them. Vincent thinks this is foolish of her but doesn't hesitate in taking it for granted. He ushers Riku over to the Paopu tree to which the latter sits up on the first bend of its trunk. Riku watches as Vincent rolls up one of his sleeves before eying the spot of pale skin beneath his jaw.

"You've never been under his control."

"I've been searching for a way to end this."

"And?"

"There is one."

Riku is happy to hear this, he honestly is. After everything that's happened there's still a way for something good to come out of this. Which is why he's more than delighted that in this position he's the one that's taller. He reaches out and grabs at the front of Vincent's sleeveless black coat and tugs him closer. One hand is spared to tug the collar of it and his shirt to the side before Riku bites into his neck.

He's not gentle about it but Vincent allows him to do what he wants nonetheless. Settling a hand on Riku's shoulder, he lets out a sigh, "I should have sent you something to kill the thirst."

The silver-haired man pulls away and pauses for only a moment. There's something about looking down into those crimson eyes that has him hooked. Maybe it's the fresh nourishment surging through him or the fact that he needs someone right now. Either way he's dipping his head back down and kisses Vincent instead. The blood on his lips only makes the meeting more enjoyable.

The entire time he tries to find something wrong with this and the way his heart aches for another kiss when he pulls away. But there's a difference than what he felt with Sora. That was easy and it almost felt like it had to be. They had been together for so long as kids that it would only be right. But this should be wrong and yet there's nothing about it he would change.

Riku attempts another kiss but Vincent lifts a finger and presses it to his lips. "That's enough, Riku."

"Didn't like it?"

"This isn't the place or time."

Daring to nip at the tip of Vincent's finger, Riku smirks. "You think that bothers me?"

Vincent closes his eyes, "Arrogance will be your downfall."

The opening has been made and Riku takes the opportunity. He pushes Vincent's hand away and uses his other to grab onto the sturdy shoulder before him. Just before their lips can meet, Riku lets out a small laugh, "I know what I want. I'm not a kid."

Their gazes lock and Riku is unsure of what he sees in relation to the hand that settles on his knee. Although, all he can think about is the breath that hits his lips. "You're acting like one."

Riku is prepared to finish what he's started. However, Kairi's voice and the sound of heavy footfalls has him stopping.

"Master Terra! Please, wait!"

The brunet, having landed on the bridge and not even seeing Kairi, doesn't pay her any mind even after she cries out. His Keyblade is drawn at his side as he rushes to the end of the bridge and sends out a simple Fire spell.

Vincent sees it coming and doesn't hesitate in the slightest. He wraps an arm around Riku's waist while the other reaches for his gun. Tugging Riku off the tree, Vincent holds him close to his chest while lifting his Cerberus and daring to pull the trigger only once. The bullet hits the fire and creates a small gravity field around it, extinguishing the fire before it can even get close.

Kairi is tugging at Terra's arm, trying to keep him from raising the Keyblade, "Master Terra, please listen."

"Not until that monster lets him go."

Terra pulls away from her and marches toward them. Not wanting to start anything, Vincent lets go of Riku and takes several steps back; he idles at the edge where the top of a ladder sticks up. Riku puts himself between them immediately, "I'm no different than him."

This stops Terra in his tracks but only for a moment. "What were you doing?"

"Feeding." The blunt answer has Terra grimacing without meaning to. Riku tries to move the conversation around it by looking toward Kairi as she comes to stand beside Terra. "There's a way we can stop Chaos. Right, Vincent?" He glances over his shoulder, signaling the latter to come forward.

Vincent does but only to stand a step behind and to the side of Riku. "The contract I made with Chaos has a physical form. If a Princess of Heart breaks the seal he can be defeated."

Terra, not trusting this information in the slightest, stays tense. "Why should we believe that?"

"Because it might kill me in the process."

Riku turns to Vincent, brows drawn together. "Why would we do that?"

However, Vincent ignores him. "You'll lure Chaos out to the world of your choosing. Once the seal is broken Chaos will have to merge with me to stay alive since our contract will be voided."

Kairi bites at the corner of her bottom lip, worrying it between her teeth. Her gaze slips up to meet Vincent's. "It's your… heart, isn't it?"

"Correct. However, I might not be able to control him and will need someone to destroy me if he takes over."

Terra scoffs and tightens his grip on his Keyblade. He knows Aqua won't say no to a plan like that. She'll try to ensure that everyone survives no matter what. They've already been through that with Ventus. He goes to open his mouth to reject every form of the plan but Kairi beats him to it.

"I'll do it." She smiles up at Terra, "I'll go back and explain everything to Aqua."

"What if it's a trap?"

The question Terra poses is one that's crossed her mind as well. But she settles it by asking Riku something so simply, "Do you trust him?" A nod is his response. "Then that's all I need to know!" She claps her hands together, "So how do we get your heart?"

Vincent seems to cringe a little at the word. "It's already been gotten. I just have to retrieve it."

Terra immediately interjects, "I'll go with you. Riku can escort Kairi back."

The dark haired man settles his gaze on Terra. "If any of you want a chance at surviving, I need to take Riku to get proper nourishment."

"Then it's decided," states Riku as he calls forth a Dark Corridor. "I'll head back tonight with a plan."

Kairi smiles wide and grabs at Terra's arm, "We'll be off then."

She's pulling him away before he has a chance to argue and Riku is beyond grateful for the thought. He goes to step into the portal when Vincent's hand falls onto his shoulder. About to reiterate that there's a possibility things could go wrong, Vincent can't even open his mouth. Riku brushes the hand off his shoulder to take it into his own instead.

He doesn't look back, he merely begins to lead Vincent into the dark depths. "I'm not losing anyone else, period."

(x)(x)(x)

The trip was short, ending with them standing inside Vincent's bedroom of his house. Although Riku will admit he's distracted upon arriving. His eyes scour the room for any hints of who Vincent is. There's only one thing that he spots and that's a red ribbon left atop the bedside table beside a few clips of ammo.

Vincent, busy digging in the closet for the hidden away object, leaves Riku to idle in the middle of the room. Riku shoves his hands into the pockets of his jacket, "So what happens when Chaos is gone?"

The reply is a little muffled as the sounds of boards breaking and sliding dare to overtake it, "Chaos won't be gone. He'll be absorbed into me."

"Meaning?"

Finally retreating from the closet, Vincent goes to Riku with the bag that he had been carrying. The only difference is there appears to be something inside it now. "Vampires won't cease to exist. But those that are under his complete control will die; those corrupted by the darkness."

"I see." Riku points to the bag, "So it's in there?"

The curious look on Riku's face has a rare smile touching Vincent's lips, one that Riku is sure to catch sight of before it retreats. "Yes," is all he says before striding over to the bed. He sits down on the edge with the bag at his feet. A breath passes before Vincent looks up at Riku. "I'm sorry about Sora, I was careless."

Riku, not wanting to get upset over it right now, moves to stand between Vincent's legs. In one swift movement he pulls Vincent forward so that the man's head presses against his torso. He slips one hand into the short tresses, trying to keep him in place. "You don't have anything to be sorry for. We're the ones that signed up to be guardians to all the worlds."

Vincent pushes away, pressing a hand onto the bed to lean back on while the other draws up to his face. He's startled by that action and uses his words as a buffer to keep it from happening again, "You're wrong."

"About?"

"I couldn't protect anyone and then condemned so many to a life like this."

Riku grabs his wrist, pulling his hand away even though he still tilts his face down so his bangs hide his eyes. It frustrates Riku to the point where he pushes Vincent onto the bed. Proceeding to straddle his waist, Riku still can't manage to get his attention. "Then start by protecting me."

Vincent's eyes widen and finally Riku smiles once their gazes meet. Slowly, Riku dips his head down and ghosts their lips together. But Vincent pushes him back ever so slightly, just enough to break the kiss. There's a petite smile that tinges his countenance, one that does well to catch Riku off guard. "We're doing this backwards."

"And whose fault is that?"

Something seems to give and Vincent moves his hand from Riku's chest to up and cupping at the back of Riku's neck. Vincent is well aware that for things to turn out the best he should be distancing himself from Riku in every way. But there's a purity to this younger man that he clings to in the same breath.

"Mine," he murmurs before their lips finally meet.

(x)(x)(x)

Riku yawns as he strides out of the darkness and into the throne room at the Land of Departure. The sun hasn't even come up but it will be soon. He stretches and looks around; wondering where everyone is. The young man muses to himself that he's thankful he has a quick recovery. Although he does find that he wishes he could have stayed in bed; in the comforting embrace that held him there.

"Where have you been?"

He turns around and comes face to face with Aqua and Terra; the latter has his arms crossed over his chest. Riku's eyes travel up to Terra as the man gets closer. Towering over him, Riku notices the way those eyes seem to scan every inch of his person. Riku holds steady, "Planning; we don't have long to talk either."

Aqua, rescuing him from any more questions, comes to stand beside Terra. "Is that it?" she asks while pointing to the bag on Riku's shoulder.

"Yeah. Kairi should be able to unlock it later."

"So Riku, what's the plan?"

He spins around and there stands Kairi with her hands on her hips. She's already dressed and ready for anything; especially with the that look on her face. He grins back at her, "How do you feel about testing out that new Fire spell I taught you?"

Terra reaches out, clapping a hand onto Riku's shoulder. "You have to be kidding, you can't just take her out into battle. We're down one already."

"Terra," Aqua begins, "Ven is fine. He's just resting."

Riku brushes them both off and strides over to Kairi. "We only have a small window. I just came to pick up Kairi. By the time the sun rises we'll be back with Vincent. Word will get to Chaos and he'll come straight here to get him and the heart back."

Aqua steps between them and Terra, "Are you sure this will work, Riku?"

He holds out his hand and summons forth a corridor. "It's the only thing we have to try." When she doesn't stop them or say another word, Riku leads Kairi into the darkness.

(x)(x)(x)

Waiting for Vincent to show up and attack them is agonizing. There's always the chance that it'll go horribly wrong; that's something Riku has come to accept rather well. Kairi stands at the edge of the water and looks out toward the islands that they call home. She takes a deep breath, "Hey Riku?"

"Hm?"

"You know I don't blame you about Sora right?"

Riku stills. This is not the subject he wants to think about right now. But he can't deny her pain and instead takes a step closer. "Kairi, I-"

"I know that wasn't easy. Especially with how much you cared about him." She turns around and smiles up at Riku. It's one that's full of sadness, but there's no anger in the slightest. "So lets make sure it doesn't happen again, alright?"

He can't stop himself from surging forward, pulling her into a hug. She returns the favor while resting her cheek against his chest. She soaks in the moment; tattooing it into her memories so that she'll never forget how happy she is to at least still have him here.

"Riku..."

Letting her go, he turns around to face Vincent and the group of three vampiric shadows that stand behind him. Vincent draws out his gun but Riku is already dashing forward with his Keyblade flashing into his grasp. On the other hand, Kairi is activating a rather powerful Fire spell.

The large fiery orb rises above her head and begins to produce smaller balls that sling toward their targets; all but Vincent and one of the vampires. None of them can get close to Kairi especially after Riku knocks Vincent to the ground; sitting atop him after wrestling the gun out of his grasp. He holds it down, pressing it to Vincent's throat. "Call them off."

Vincent glances toward two that stand off to the side. He doesn't so much as wince when one bursts into flames, "Retreat. Now."

The order is absolute and sends the creature far around the bend of the shore; eager to slip through the darkness. Riku waits a few moments until he's sure the enemy has left. Although he doesn't seem to move fast enough as Vincent would like. "Are you going to sit there all day?"

"Just checked, it's definitely gone," Kairi chimes in as she walks over to them.

Riku huffs as he stands up and dismisses his Keyblade. Vincent brushes the sand off his clothes while Riku holds out his gun to him. "I don't see how you carry this thing. It's too heavy."

Slipping it into the holster resting against his hip, Vincent merely glances over to Kairi before back at Riku. "Is everything in order?"

"As long as that thing does what it's supposed to," Riku comments as he holds out his hand to open a portal. The darkness swirls up from the ground and Kairi frowns slightly, something that Riku takes note of. He nudges her as he goes by, "It's only one last time. You can figure out how to open your own corridors after this."

She elbows him in the side, although still takes the hand he offers, "I will! And it'll be safer."

The three of them hurry into the curling darkness with Riku leading the way. Before any of them can take much of a breath they're already exiting out the other side and into the setting light that streams in through the stained glass. Of course Aqua and Terra are standing at the bottom of the stairs, just before the thrones, waiting on them.

Tense silence fills the air as they meet in the middle of the room. Terra is the first to speak up; arms crossed and a deep frown on his countenance. "No one got hurt, right?"

Riku pulls away from Kairi to maintain a defensive stance before Vincent. However, Kairi is the one to answer, "Everything went perfectly." She gestures towards Vincent. "By the middle of tonight he should be here."

Turning away, Aqua begins down a hallway. "I'll continue lowering the protective barrier in that case."

"Wait. Wait a second. I'd feel more comfortable if he was contained somewhere until then."

Vincent cuts Riku off before he can interject, "As long as Chaos can find me, I'd feel better if I was as well."

The young woman gives a wave for Vincent to follower her and he does. But not without Terra following close behind. Left standing there, Riku can only stare at their retreating backs. He'd be lying if he said he isn't worried about all of this. There's no sure fire plan to make this work. Squaring his shoulders, Riku glances over to Kairi. "I won't let anything like that happen again. I'll keep you safe, I promise."

Kairi sticks her tongue out at him, "Not if I have to save your butt instead."

Riku shakes his head before gingerly pulling away, muttering something about getting ready for tonight. Except he has other plans and one of them includes getting to Vincent before everything hits the fan. If he's lucky Terra will still be getting ready.

Which is a good case and point considering Riku practically sprints to his designated room when he's not in anyone's line of sight. Once there he throws off his jacket, not wanting anything to get caught or tamper with his actions. He has to be focused for this after all. It shouldn't be a surprise that he's practically skidding to a halt when Aqua suddenly emerges from the doors that lead outside.

"I thought you'd be the first to show up."

Her genuine smile is hard to ignore but he does try, "Meaning?"

"Ven is inside just in case. Kairi and Terra should be here soon. If you want to be alone for a moment, now is your chance," she says simply. Riku goes to walk by her, to take her up on her offer, when her hand falls on his shoulder. "We can do this. He'll be fine."

There's something strange in the way his heart feels lighter and there's less tension that riddles his muscles. Yet he doesn't dare dwell on it. He accepts it and opens the door just a crack, slipping outside and making sure to close it behind him. Riku takes a couple steps and finds himself halting completely.

Sitting at the stone table in one of the four chairs is Vincent staring up at the stars beginning to glitter in the darkening sky. His silhouette is framed by the soft yellow light coming from the hanging lanterns set up around the edge of the area while a rather saddened expression occupies his countenance. It's a moment like this that Riku truly realizes just what this man has put on the line for him and his selfish whims. That once again someone is hurting because of what he wants or can't handle.

Finally he continues forward knowing he doesn't have very much time and that if they're unlucky tonight then this will be the last time he ever speaks to Vincent. The latter doesn't bother looking to him when he comes to a stop beside the chair, impatiently gazing at him. Although he also can't stop his eyes from wandering to slight magical current that he can see around the bottom of the chair.

With a huff he mutters a cure spell and has the bind wearing off; not like it would do anything to begin with. He's well aware that Aqua must have just been satisfying her friend's request. Although his action merely draws a disgruntled sigh from Vincent. Riku is prepared, he's already determined to lay things out on the figurative table between them. Except Vincent is already glancing to the side, ignoring him the best he can.

"When this is over, if I survive, I'll be sure to stay far away. The rest of the vampires need to have tabs kept on me."

It's not the first time in his life that Riku has to resist the urge to slap hit someone he cares about. Then again… he wonders if this is how Sora felt. To be standing on the other side of the river is hard but that doesn't stop his glare from setting in, "What makes you think I want that?"

"It's what's best for you – for everyone. I've ruined your life enough and now you think you lo-"

Riku grabs onto Vincent's shoulder, the touch forcing their eyes to finally meet. "I do, maybe I shouldn't but I do."

Vincent shrugs Riku's hand off. "Your feelings are from the bond we share. Don't get confused."

He's not sure what to say to that. Sure, he knows very well that the last person he should have feelings for is a man he's only recently met. But there's something in the way his chest aches at the thought of losing him. Not because of anything other than the same way he felt about Sora; the familiar pain that is love for another person.

"So I'm stupid for not wanting to leave?"

"Yes. You're not thinking clearly and I haven't helped."

Seeing as the statement opens up the opportunity to act rashly, Riku does just that. He reaches down and grabs a fistful of Vincent's shirt. It causes the latter to look up just in time for Riku to meet him half way. Their lips crash together in a rough meeting of uncertainty and fear but there in the midst of the chaos is a budding love that neither can ignore. It's why Vincent doesn't push him away, at least at the beginning.

When Riku tries to deepen it, take charge and show him he means it, Vincent pulls back and frowns up at him. Riku's fingers remain tightly curled in the material even still, "None of this makes sense, I know that. But I want to figure it out." Taking a step away and giving up his grip on Vincent, Riku shoves his hands into his pockets. "After all this I'll take you wherever you want to go and if you still don't want me around, I'll find a way to live with that."

A small smile touches Vincent's lips and it nearly takes Riku's breath away. He settles against the chair, as if a great weight no longer rests on him, and gives a mere wave of his hand. "That's very mature of you. I don't see why not, but only if you stop doing that."

"Doing what?" asks Riku as he raises a brow in mock confusion.

Vincent slowly rises to his feet and steps away from the chair. They can hear the footsteps that will be close to that door soon and he knows he only has a moment. He'd rather not get on Terra's bad side more than he is. Even so he doesn't hurry things too quickly as he reaches to cup at the back of Riku's neck, holding him steady, as he leans in for a kiss.

It's so very different than the one before. There's a calm to it that has them both relaxing and Riku not noticing that Vincent's hand slides down to his shoulder then drops off. Not that Riku minds any of that, he's far too enraptured in the way those lips slowly pull away from his own. The next thing he knows Vincent is grabbing one of his hands, lifting it up and placing something heavy on the palm.

Riku curls his fingers around the cold metal and looks down, only to snap his gaze back up to the hard set crimson eyes. "What.. I'm not using this," he states firmly.

Vincent gives a slight shake of his head and takes that fateful step away as the doors across the way open. The other three are already coming over when Vincent flashes one final smile and replies, "You'll do what you have to do."

The fear is daring to rush back in to feed the darkness that lingers around the recesses of his heart. It's something he has to combat at the same time as not letting the worry linger on his face. He can only absentmindedly feel Aqua's hand brushing over his shoulder. Yet no one stays near him. They're all moving to the middle of the area.

Riku turns around, holding the gun in one hand and summoning his Keyblade to the other. But the weight difference is weird and if he were honest he'd excuse himself immediately because he's about to be sick. He watches as Kairi stands in front of Vincent with a large glassy orb in her hands. It shimmers and glows; never staying one color as it alternates throughout every hue.

She casts a gravity spell on it to keep it in the air between them before she too calls forth her Keyblade. Before she even raises it over her head to strike through the object Riku can already smell the raw darkness that's racing throughout this world – trying desperately to find them so it can stop this. It'll never make it fast enough and Riku takes some tiny ounce of joy in that.

Chaos surges into the area just as Kairi shatters the one thing keeping it in a human-like form. The light blinds them all from the sight of Chaos being forcibly absorbed into Vincent. When they can finally see again and they're all standing at the ready, Vincent is down on one knee with a hand clutching at his shirt. Riku attempts to go over to him but Terra is skidding in the way and thankfully so.

Vincent stands back up at that moment and opens his eyes. Although that's not what shocks them. It's the leathery black wings that materialize and talons as deep as the darkness itself that replace his hands.

Kairi is trying to back away but Vincent is already lunging forward at her. He doesn't know how any of them fight and that's their only advantage. Aqua teleports between them and summons forth her barrier, blocking away the three swipes. Hopping backward, Vincent doesn't get a chance to rethink before Terra is already at his doorstep. Vincent catches the swing of Terra's Keyblade in one hand, but not without being shoved two or three feet in the other direction.

While Aqua is busy ushering Kairi away to prepare a rather large spell should they need it. It's exactly why Riku is racing forward as Terra wrestles his blade free just in time for Riku to trade blows with Vincent. Not that the gun he has to hold helps his movements in the slightest. Terra must notice this and switches places with Riku, dominating the fight as they parry back and forth.

That is until Vincent, or rather Chaos inside, gets irritated and knocks Terra off his feet. The wings flap and Vincent dives down, attempting to thrust the talons straight into Terra's chest. He would succeed but a mid level aero spell knocks into him. While it does no damage it does garner the attention Riku wants.

Riku puts plenty of distance between them and forces Vincent to rush toward him. The action gives Aqua enough time to run over to Terra to throw him a quick healing spell while Kairi continues holding her own – ready to fire should they need it. Although Riku doesn't plan on it having to go to that extreme. He's already blocking the first blow that comes in, aiming to cleave his head from his shoulders.

The other hand darts forward, palm landing heavily on his shoulder while those sharp claws dig through his vest and pierce the skin beneath. The pain is nothing compared to that of Vincent sinking his teeth into Riku's neck a second later. While Terra is already trying to get to his feet and Kairi is looking for what to do from Aqua, Riku is calm.

It's all going how he thought it would. He'll fix this himself.

His Keyblade vanishes and his fingers claw for support against the grass as he hits the ground with Vincent crouched over him. The gun in his other hand is gets heavier with each passing second that he idles. Yet he manages to lift and aim it, the barrel shaky as he pulls the trigger.

The last thing he wants to do is kill Vincent so he'll settle for a minor injury.

The shot rings out as the bullet passes through Vincent's thigh. Kairi's spell wavers and Terra stumbles to a stop. Vincent, however, slowly pulls away from Riku's neck after a moment of hesitation. He refuses to look at Riku but the latter can tell it's over, at least for now. Suppressing that entity will be a forever trial. Right now, though, Vincent rests forehead against Riku's chest with heavy breaths trying to steady his nerves.

To be honest, it's the first time he's even seen the other vampire breathe. It's enough to allow him to relax and draw a hand up, diving his fingers into the short dark tresses. A simple sign that tells the others the battle is over. Coming so quick and ending just as soon, they all struggle to catch their breath.

(x)(x)(x)

Hours later find Vincent sitting in the same chair that he had been earlier. The only difference is that Riku comes over to lean against the table, looking down at him with nothing but worry. After Vincent could stand they found that the wound had already healed. Although it did take a bit of effort and time before Vincent could dismiss the wings and claws – after several attempts too since they kept trying to come back.

"I'm sure you don't want to stay here all day," says Riku as he fiddles with the zipper on his jacket.

Vincent sits up a little, bringing them a tad closer. "I'd like to find my friends. The last I heard of them they were in a place called Traverse Town."

There's a shrug from Riku in response. "I'll take you wherever you want to go. But they probably aren't in Traverse Town anymore." He pauses then adds, "Why didn't you talk to them?"

"They looked like they had enough problems. Yuffie almost saw me but I couldn't trust her with a secret like this."

Riku smiles over at him, "I actually do know a Yuffie… unfortunately." He can only remember the time Sora drug him to Radiant Gardens to meet the team of people who had helped him. The most memorable was definitely the grinning woman who couldn't help but ask every and any question. "I can take you there, but I should probably run back to Destiny Islands first," he states with a tug at the bottom of his vest, indicating the obvious rips that had been left in it from Vincent's claws.

"That's fine," says Vincent as he stands up. He steps away from the chair and table but not without grabbing at Riku's wrist. He tugs the latter along with him only to let his hand slip down until it cups with Riku's. Even though he doesn't dare make eye contact, he does have a rather pleased tone. "We can go wherever you want first."

;w; It's finally done. End. Fin. Finale - over. lol
Sorry it took so long OTL