AXEL IS AWESOME!

Sora had grown to appreciate Tidus and Wakka più as adults than he had as playmates. Tidus had the same superciliousness about him as Riku, but without the reclusion and superiority that compelled Sora to seek him as a rival. Wakka was easy-going and wise. Between them, they could normally diffuse Sora's angst long enough for him to concentrate on putting on a happy face.

Today was no exception. Ever since his conversation with Riku earlier that day, Sora had become increasingly anxious. He had not seen his best friend for più than a week's duration since he had...

Well, it had been a very...

Their lives were- shockingly- very normal. Being gone for three years had put them behind, at first. Not only had they fallen behind classmates, but three years' absence had made them forget much of routine life. School, faces, places, memories... How many times had Selphie grinned at Sora, whom she had always had a crush on, and said, "Do te remember when...?" The first few times he would laugh and admit he did not recall the anecdote, and be made fun of for absent-mindedness. But as this happenstance recurred più frequently, Sora would just slip on a false smile and nod. Of course he remembered....