#seeing them join each other in the big tree made my heart do some cartwheels i wont lie!!! ☝️

[thecryptidwizard]

With 1 cocoon left for hatching, 4 out of 5 monarchs have emerged!! In order we have 1 male, and 3 females so far :]

(I was worried about the last female, cause she was so much smaller than her peers when she went into chrysalis!! Luckily she turned out okay!!)

There was an additional female monarch already out and about in the garden (laying more eggs probably!!) when I released them, so I'm sure they felt reassured when they took off 🥺👉👈

Now to wait for the next. *Looks over* 12 caterpillars 🧍.

[imnotusedtobeingloved]

HAPPY IS HER

Warnings: Unrequited love.

Pairing: Zuko x Mai x f!Reader

Characters: Zuko, Mai, Uncle Iroh, Azula, Ty Lee, Ursa, Avatar Aang (mentioned)

Requested: No.

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters, nor the gif. Credit to the owners.

Summary: You remember the time that lead up to Zuko's coronation.

A/N: I feel like Mai is often villainized in some fics? Which definetely works in some cases, but in this one i just wanted to do something nice for her as well. So yes, you get to actually be Mai’s friend in this shot. She’s a queen. Hope you like it!

Zuko had a beautiful face.

It was something that you'd discovered in your childhood, and it still caught your eye now that you were an adult. Maybe even more so.

Growing up next to him, Azula, Mai and Ty Lee enabled you to see how much he'd grown. You remembered running around in the gardens and training in the palace grounds, playing all those silly games with them. Being the daughter of a Fire Nation General enabled you to spend a lot of time with the prince and princess.

“Mom, can you make Zuko play with us? We need equal teams to play a game,” Azula explained, running up to the Fire Lady and her brother while you, Mai and Ty Lee watched. “I’m not cartwheeling!” Zuko declined. “You won’t have to. Cartwheeling is not a game, dumb-dumb,” the princess crossed her arms, but he shot right back. “I don’t care! I don’t want to play with you,” Azula payed him no mind, instead persuading her mother. “We are brother and sister. It’s important for us to spend time together. Don’t you think so, mom?” her big golden eyes, a common trait of the Royal Family, looked at Ursa expectantly. “Yes, darling, i think it’s a good idea to play with your sister. Go on, now! Just... for a little while,” she gave in, strolling on without the prince. He didn’t seem particularily enthusiastic but he stepped up next to you, causing a blush to rise on your face. Luckily, nobody seemed to notice.

“Here’s the way it goes,” his sister said, plucking an apple from a tree. “Now what you do is, try to knock the apple off the other persons head. Like this,” After placing the fruit on Mai’s head, Azula proceeded to take a few steps back, standing between Ty Lee and Zuko. “Zula, are you sure this is a good idea?” You asked, unsure about the game. “Of course it is, silly. It’s going to be fun!” Mai didn’t look to pleased with her task, tough she stood still in front of the fountain, balancing the apple. But it didn’t stay that way for long. Azula produced a flame, using two fingers to coordinate it towards her target. The leaves of the fruit atop Mai’s head were aflame in a second. She screamed, causing Zuko to run forward and pushing her into the water-fountain, resulting in both of them landing in the water. Azula cackled, placing a hand on your shoulder. “See? I told you it would work!” Ty Lee nodded and pointed a fiinger in their direction. “Awww, they’re so cute together!” A flicker of jealousy rose in your chest, but you pushed it down quickly. Zuko didn’t respond, he only stood up and walked away, huffing. Mai wasn’t in a good mood either. “You three are such... ugh!” she didn’t really finish her scentense, but anyone could see how upset she was. “Come on, let’s get you out of here,” You said, reaching out. She took your hand reluctantly and once she stood on solid ground, Azula and Ty Lee dragged her with them to find some dry clothes. You, on the other hand, were already running after the prince. “Zuko, wait!”

Many memories of Zuko were forever branded into your mind. Even then you'd stolen glances at him whenever you felt unobserved. But that was before he participated in an Agni Kai against his father.

You’d turned your face away when it happened. Zuko lost, his screams echoing through the halls, even when he finally got to the healers. Since then a glaring red burn mark graced the skin around his eye. A reminder that would last for life. And that wasn’t even the worst part of it. He was banished. Burdened with the hopeless conquest to find and capture the Avatar. You’d cried as you hugged him goodbye, almost certain you’d never see him again. 

"Do you really have to go?” you mumbled into his shoulder, staining it with your tears. The embrace was rough. He recoiled in a matter of seconds, pushing you an arms-length away. It wasn’t the loving touch you were used to. “Yes, i have to. I need to restore my honor, (Y/N),” he said, his tone devoid of any emotion but anger. “But Zuko-,” he interrupted you. “No!” fire was blazing in his eyes. You’d never had his anger directed at you before, and now that you did, it shocked you into silence. “Just leave me alone,” he said, turned around, and walked away. You stood there, rigid, until General Iroh moved to your side. “Please don’t take it personally, (Y/N),” he folded his hands in front of his stomach, looking after his nephew, who was stomping onto the deck of his ship. “He is very desperate right now,” You nodded shortly. “I know,” A sigh left your lips. “That’s why it hurts even more,”

There was nothing. Nothing you could help with. You were losing your best friend and the only thing you could do was watch. Years went by without word or sight of either Zuko or Iroh and not a day went by without remembering them. The prince may be banned from the Nation, but he couldn’t be banned from your heart.

Needless to say you were ecstatic when he returned. You all seemed to be. In the few days spend on Ember Island you all discovered something about yourselves, and each other. You, for example, discovered that you were still very much in love with Zuko. Being with him, talking to him, laughing with him... it all seemed so easy that it ripped your heart apart to see him with Mai. But nevertheless you were more shocked than relieved when she ended things with him.

“Zuko?” you’d followed him after he stormed out of Chan’s house, finally finding him on the steps of their old residence on Ember Island. “What happened?” You sat down next to him. A few moments passed in silence, with both of you lost in thoughts. He didn’t look at you, but eventually he started to speak. “Mai ended things between us,” “Oh...” you weren’t sure what to say... but maybe pretty words weren’t needed for once. Zuko looked stricking under the moonlight, almost unreal. It was a sight so pure that you were reconsidering the idea in your head, but eventually you just followed your heart. “Come here,” He furrowed his brows. “What?” You sighed. He was still angry. After all those years he hadn’t learned to let go. “You need a hug. Come here,” And this time he did. He felt warm, just like he did back when you were kids. Maybe not everything had changed completely, you thought. Maybe things truly could turn out okay.

So when he left once again, for the Avatar, you had to make a choice. With Mai and Ty Lee by your side you eventually stood against Azula, helping Team Avatar to escape the Boiling Rock.

“You should’ve feared me more!” Azula roared in anger at your betrayal. You and Mai had known the consequences of restraining the quards and helping Zuko to escape. And yet you did it. Both of your wirsts were behind your back, bound with a rope, making it almost impossible to defend yourself. But honestly? In this state you would have no chance against Azula. Not even with Mai by your side. The only thing that kept you sane in that moment, was knowing that Zuko had made it out alive and safe. The princess made her move, bringing her fingers together to produce her flames, but it never came to that. Ty Lee blocked her chi faster than anybody could realize what was happening. Azula grunted and gasped as she fell to the floor of the plattform. “Come on! Let’s get out of here!” Ty Lee ran over to try and pull you and Mai away, but the guards surrounded you before you could attempt anything more. “You’re all fools,” Azula growled, still laying on the ground, until the men picked her up. “What shall we do with them, princess?” her face was disorted with rage. “Put them somewhere i’ll never have to see their face again!”

And now that Sozin's Comet was over, Zuko became the Firelord.

He looked like a true leader in the traditional robes, laced with red and gold. A proud expression graced his face, as you looked up at him. His smile genuine and happy. He'd become a wonderful man fit to rule the Nation. Grown more mature with his experiences, something that showed in the look on his face and his posture. And in that moment you were sure. Zuko had never been more beautiful than in this very moment. His amber eyes shined in the sun, glimmering full of love as he looked at Mai.

Deep down you'd always known that the two of you weren't meant to be. You'd known when you were little, playing by the water fountain, the two of them blushing whenever Azula teased them. Or when he was back, leaving the palace in the evening, going out to see her. And you'd known when Mai recieved a goodbye letter, before he joined Aang. Because you didn't.

Now you were stuck in the crowd, applauding the new Fire Lord. Watching as he was joined by the Avatar and pulled Mai into a hug. As the tears welled in your eyes, you felt a hand on your shoulder, squeezing softly. "You're not to blame, (Y/N)," Uncle Iroh's calming voice soothed your nerves, as it did so often before. "The heart wants what it wants,"

You nodded, throat burning from the bottled up emotions. “You’re probably right,” Like he always was. “Happy is her. It was never me,”

You, daughter of a former general, should now become advisor to the Fire Lord. But honestly? You couldn't. And you couldn't bare to tell him. Watching him with Mai filled you with joy. So much joy. And pain. Your two closest friends had found each other to form a beautiful bond. Who were you to take it from them?

So this time, again, Mai was the only one to recieve a letter. It sat on your pillow, were she'd certainly find it. The both of you had formed a habit when you were young, often sneaking into each others bedrooms once it was late, talking about every thought that clouded your minds. Everything but the fact that you were in love with her boyfriend.

Dear Mai,

I want to say that I’m sorry. I need to. By the time you’re reading this letter, i am gone. And i want you to know why.

First of all i want to apologize that you and Zuko will have to look for another advisor who will stand in my place, for i am not coming back. Please don’t search for me, or try to reach me. This is the path i have chosen for myself.

I don’t want to blame you for my disappearance, and yet i have to tell you why i had to leave. I am in love with Zuko. I have been since we were kids. Nobody ever noticed. And i never said anything, because i didn’t want to hurt you. I love you, Mai. I love the both of you so much, it hurts. And i can’t deny the fact that i would’ve liked to be where you are right now. But i know that you love him. And you make him happy. I can live with that. Though seeing you two together every day is something my heart can’t seem to bear anymore. I’m cursed to love someone i cannot have. I don’t want to have. Because i see how joyful you are, now that the two of you can finally be together. I don’t want to be the person to destroy that bond in my jealousy.

In conclusion i thought it would be best to remove myself from the situation. And from the position offered.

I’m going to miss you so much, you have no idea. I want you to know it’s not your fault. And that i am always with you in mind and heart. Nothing i have ever done was harder than writing this letter. No fight was ever more brutal than leaving you, my friend. I wish you all the best. And i love you.

Your best friend,

(Y/N)

You’d asked yourself often... why him? Out of all people, why did it have to be him? But if you had to be genuine with yourself, you knew exactly why. Zuko was someone who had to face a lot of trauma to be who he was now. To be who you loved. His strength, his humor, the way he rubbed his neck when he was embarrassed or the dimples in his cheeks when he smiled. You could name countless reasons why you loved him. But you also knew all the reasons why you shouldn’t. And Mai. The stunning, silent, wonderful Mai. She deserved everything and more. And spirits, you wished them all the best in this world.

"Thank you, Iroh," you whispered blinking back the tears, before you turned around and went. You left behind your best friends, the Fire Lord, your Nation. All was lost as you your back faced the crowd, climbing into the next carriage. It was finally over. Once and for all.

[atomic-taco-muffin]

The Lost Princess Chapter 66

Warnings: Angst/fluff, I guess. Again, still don’t know

Rating: SFW

(this gif is so adorable)

Ansem and Xemnas brought your unconscious body over to Master Yen Sid’s where he was able to remove the Negaverse from your body. After some time, you were back to normal and went to go join the others in the Kingdom of Corona. You and the others walked through a picturesque forest. Goofy put his hand up to block the sun.

“It sure is a pretty day,” he said. You and Sora stretched your arms. 

“Yeah, the weather is great. It'd be perfect for a picnic,” Sora said.

“Agreed,” you said.

“You doing okay, sis?” Vanitas asked. 

“For the last time, Vani. I’m fine. Xemnas was able to catch it before it spreaded.” 

“Why do you think we came HERE?” Donald asked.

“Got me, Donald,” Sora said. 

“We'll figure it out as we go,” Rumi said.

“Okay,” Donald sighed. 

“I'm sure we were brought to this world for SOME good reason, but can't we sweat it later?” Roxy said. 

“Fine with me, as long as there's no Heartless and you not going ballistic on shit,” Yui said.

“Hey!” You and the others heard a scream and stopped in your tracks, looking around for the source of it. Then with grunting and a final slide, a man fell down the hill behind them. He groaned, massaging his back, then looked back where he came from, where a troop of Heartless flew down after him. The man got up and scampered away, the satchel on his hip flapping with every step. He ran  towards you and the others with the Heartless on his tail, flailing his arms wildly.

“Make way! Make way! Make way!” he said. Sora, Vanitas, Donald and Goofy parted so he can pass them, then summon their weapons, you and the girls following close behind.

“Heartless!” you said. The man found a rock to hide behind, catching his breath and peering out at the group.

“You see? Soon as you mention 'em, they show up!” Yui said. 

“There goes our picnic,” Goofy said. 

“I didn't do it!” Roxy said. 

“Sure you didn’t,” Vanitas said. 

“S'okay. Let's send these guys packing,” Sora said. 

“Say, since you three seem to know what you're doing, mind if I leave this one to you?” the guy said. 

“Yup. We'll take care of them. Go on, skedaddle!” you said. 

“You have my thanks.” The dashing man gave off a sigh. “The horse was enough. Don't need any monsters on my trail.” 

“The WHAT was enough?” Roxy cackled.

“Roxy!” Yui scolded. 

“Oh, nothing, nothing. Name's Flynn. Flynn Rider,” the man said. He then pointed at a Heartless. “Ohh! Watch out, they look mad!” 

Roxy and Yui turned back to the task at hand and Flynn started creeping away.

“Slowly... Slowly... Outta here!” he said. He dashed away as fast as he can while you and the others took out the multitude of Heartless. After the fight, you all saw no sign of Flynn Rider.

“Huh? Where the hell did Flynn go?” Vanitas asked. 

“He skedaddled,” Donald said. 

“I think I saw him go thataway,” Goofy said. He pointed toward a spot between the trees that veered into a small clearing with rocky hills on each side.

“Huh? But ‘thataway’ is...just a dead end,” Sora said. 

“Yeah. That's puzzling,” Rumi said.

“Well, did he?” Roxy asked. Goofy crossed his arms, thinking.

“I say we investigate,” you said. You and the others searched the area for Flynn and approached the rocky hillside ahead.

“He couldn't have come this way,” Yui said. Sora saw no exit nearby and turned to face you and the others, his back to a patch of leafy vines.

“Well, at least he got away safe. Right?” he said. He tried to lean against the vines, but stumbled right through them. Goofy turned at the rustling sound, but Sora had disappeared.

“Hey! Now Sora's gone, too!” he said. He walked over to the vines and heard Sora's voice through them.

“This way, guys! It's a secret passage!” Sora said. Sora stood up as you and the others pulled the vines apart to find a small hollow in the mountain. You all ran through the cave until emerging into a small valley with a lone tower standing in its center. Made mostly of brick, the tower had vines running along its side indicating it must have been there for years. Behind the tower, a waterfall ran over the mountainside into a small pond that glistened in the sunlight. 

“Look at that. A tower! Let's check it out!” you said. As you all neared the base of the tower, you all saw Flynn climbing down the stones on the outside with a pair of arrows. He paused, resting for a moment, when Rapunzel flung her hair down out the window, rappelling herself down the tower. She stopped before she hit the ground and slowly extended a barefoot to the warm grass beneath. She took in the feeling of her first taste of earth and knelt down, feeling the ground under her hands.

“It's so soft!” she said. Several dandelion seeds flew into the wind before her and she stood. “I'm free... I'm really free!” 

She started running, not even noticing you and the others as she passed you all. You and the others ran over to Flynn as he reached the bottom of the tower.

“Flynn, good to see you in one piece!” Sora said.

“Guys! You're here, and just in time,” Flynn said. Rapunzel stepped into the pond, laughing as she stepped over the small stones lining the bottom.

“Uh... Who's she?” Vanitas asked.

“Uh, that would be Rapunzel,” Flynn said. Rapunzel took a handful of water and splashed it upwards with a shout of glee and loud laughter.

“Something tells me this could be her first time outdoors. Give her a few minutes to get used to it,” Flynn said.

“First time EVER?” you asked, wide eyed. The sun beat down on her golden hair as she took in her decision. She grabbed her face.

“I can't believe I did this!” She said happily. She grabbed her face.

“I can't believe I did this,” she said shocked. She then spun around. 

“I can't believe I DID this!” she said, excitedly. She gasped. 

“Mother would be so furious if she knew I disobeyed her and left the tower...” she said worriedly. She sat on a rock holding a flower.

“But that's okay--I mean, what she doesn't know won't kill her... Right?” she said, being carefree. She cried in the hollow cave

“Oh my gosh. This would kill her,” she said, sadly. She ran through the grass, kicking up leaves. Donald laughed while Flynn rolled his eyes.

“This is so fuuuuuun!” she shouted. She leaned her head against a tree.

“I am a horrible daughter. I'm going back,” she said, devastated. She did cartwheels through the flowers, wrapping herself in her hair.

“I am never going back!” she said, exuberantly. She laid face down on the ground.

“I am a despicable human being,” she said in grief. She swung around a large tree by her hair where you, Flynn, Vanitas, and Sora waited for her to even out.

“Best. Day. Ever!” she said, exhilarated. She sobbed into her hands at the base of the tree. Flynn walked over to her, with you and the others following.

“I notice you seem a little at war with yourself here,” Flynn said.

“A little MORE than a little,” Vanitas said. 

“More like a lot,” Roxy said. 

“Yeah...” Rumi said. Rapunzel stopped crying and turns to see you and the others. She gasped and held out the frying pan towards you all.

“Stop right there! Who are you?” she said. Flynn steps in-between.

“I told you before: my sidekicks,” he said. 

“Sidekicks?! Oh, hell no! If anything you’re the sidekick here!” Roxy said. 

“Roxy! Sorry about my sister here. She doesn’t know when to shut up,” Yui said. 

“Anyways. May I introduce, ehh...” Flynn said. 

“Oh, uh... My name's Sora.” 

“Donald!”

“I’m (Y/N).”

“Hi, my name’s Rumi.”

“Vanitas.”

I’m Yui and you’ve met my twin sister Roxy.”

“And I'm Goofy. Pleasure, ma'am.” A chameleon appeared from under Rapunzel’s hair, skeptical of them.

“Sora, Donald, (Y/N), Rumi, Vanitas, Yui, Roxy, and...Goofy,” she said. She lowered the frying pan. “It's...nice to meet you, too. I'm Rapunzel.” 

“Yep. My sidekicks,” Flynn said. Sora grabbed Flynn's arm and spun him around.

“Since when is THAT?” Sora whispered. 

“Look, she really wants to see the lantern show tomorrow night. Now, I'm a nice guy, so I've decided to help her. Only problem is those monsters might show up again. I can get her to the Kingdom--but you guys are clearly more cut out for combat,” Flynn whispered back.

“That's cause we're heroes!” Donald said. 

“Uh-huh!”

“And we're Heartless experts,” Goofy said.

“Yeah, yeah!”

“And Negaverse destroyers!” you said.

“Totally!” You all posed together and Sora gave a small laugh.

“Just leave it to us!” he said. 

“Done,” Flynn said. He motioned to Rapunzel and lead her forward.

“Rapunzel is interesting...” Rumi said. You and the others walked behind them as Rapunzel admired her surroundings.

“Yeah, her heart's pulling her all kinda ways,” Goofy said. 

“The outside world must seem so big and scary. I know how she feels. Lucky for me you guys came along at just the right time--and the rest has been unforgettable,” you said. 

“I know how she feels too,” Sora said. 

“Awww...” Donald said. You realized that you were getting sentimental.

“Yep, unforgettable...just like your face!” you said as you pointed to Vanitas’s face. 

“Oh yeah?!” Vanitas asked. You laughs as Vanitas bursted out in anger. You ran to catch up to Rapunzel and Flynn, putting your hands behind your head. Goofy and the others chuckled as Vanitas seethed.

“C'mon, now,” Sora said. He and the others ran up to you and Vanitas followed. 

“All for one, and one for all,” you said. Soon, you all reached a patch of wildflowers and something caught Rapunzel's attention.

“Oh, look. What is that? It's so fluffy!” she said. She ran up to the ball of fluff and inspected it, her fingers grazing the surface. Into the air sprouted multiple tufts of fluff that, when they reached the ground, burst into Puffball Heartless. The Chief Puff itself pulled out of the ground and stared at her with its glowing yellow eyes, scaring her.

“Heartless!” Sora said. You and the others run ahead of her and summon your weapons and guardians.

“Rapunzel, take cover!” Vanitas said. She ran back to Flynn, throwing her arms around him and using him as a shield. At first he was surprised, but smirked soon after, seeing an out.

“All right, I hate to say it, but I'm lettin' you outta this deal,” he said. She loosened her grip on him.

“What?” she asked. 

“It's way too scary out here. Let's just turn around and take you home.” He tried to get her to walk back, but she whirled around and punched him in the chest

“No. I am seeing those lanterns,” she said. Rapunzel bravely gathered her hair in her arms and ran back to you, Sora and company.

“Oh, come on!” Flynn said.

“Rapunzel?” Yui asked. 

“It's okay. I'm not afraid to face them,” Rapunzel said. You all engaged the plant-like Heartless and took them down. Meanwhile, back at the tower, Mother Gothel had returned to find Rapunzel missing. She scrambled through the house in desperation.

“Rapunzel?” she asked. She ran into her room.

“Rapunzel!” She frantically teared down the curtain covering the window, but found no one there. She clutched her face in terror before a glint of light caught her eye from beneath the stairs. She opened the bottom step and pulled out a satchel. Reaching into the satchel, she removed a sparkling tiara and at the sight of it, dropped it in fear. Terrified, she looked further in the bag, taking out a Wanted poster for one Flynn Rider.

“Missing someone?” Mother Gothel whirled around.

“Who’s there?” she asked. Stepping out from a portal was a man in a black coat with long rose-colored hair. The abrupt entrance caused the frightened woman to drop the poster as Marluxia stepped closer. (or mar-ploof-a as i like to call him)

“She's such a precious gift. Allow me to assist you in getting her back,” he said. Mother Gothel's eyes slowly turned pink. As You, Vanitas Sora, Donald, Rumi, the twins, Goofy, Rapunzel and Flynn continued their trek to the Kingdom, they find a large field of...

“Dandelions!” Rapunzel said. She ran ahead into the patch of flowers. “Look! Watch.”

She knelt down and blew on a few of them, sending their seeds into the air.

“Oh yeah, I thought that might work. But I wish there was a way to make more fly at once,” she said. 

“Rumi,” Roxy smiled. Rumi smiled back and summoned Nyx. Nyx let out a roar and wafted the large patch of them into the air. The floated past Rapunzel's wide-eyed stare.

“They're just like the floating lights,” she said. 

~Le Time Skip~

You and the others left the lake and continued through the forest, Rapunzel's long hair trailing behind her as you all came upon a strange plant stuck in the ground in a clearing alone.

“Okay. That's suspicious,” Flynn said. 

“Rapunzel...” Sora said. 

“Don't worry. I know to be careful around flowers now,” Rapunzel winked.

“Whatever it is, it's not normal. I'll take a look,” you said. 

“Um, no you’re not,” Vanitas said. 

“Vani, I told you I’m fine!” After a few minutes of debating, you walked closer to the plant. 

“Watch it,” Donald said. You approached the odd vegetation and examined it while everyone waited with bated breath. After seeing no imminent threat from the flower, you turned to the group.

“All clear!” you said. They sighed with relief, but too late, as the flower's petals opened, folding downward as its form changed to that of a creature holding a scythe with a familiar symbol on its face.

“(Y/N)!” Vanitas said, alarmed. He pointed behind you, who turned just in time as the pink and white creature swung its immense scythe at you along with a few Negaverses. You dodged away and summoned Odile with gritted teeth, joined by Sora and the others.

“These guys?” Sora asked. More of them appeared.

“They're Nobodies!” Goofy said. 

“Now, I feel what Uncle Ansem feels!” Roxy said. 

“Mother said the outside world would be full of ruffians and thugs,” Rapunzel said.

“Those aren't ruffians. Those are...uhh, I dunno...” Donald said.

“They’re more like puppets,” Yui said.

“Rapunzel, Flynn, stay back!” Sora said. 

“No. I want to help you fight,” Rapunzel said. 

“I know. But I'm afraid you can't hurt these guys with a frying pan. Trust me on this. Flynn, could you explain?” you said. 

“No problem. Knowing when to flee is one of my specialties,” Flynn said. He rushed to Rapunzel. “C'mon, Rapunzel. Gotta go.”

“But--”

“Look, I wanna stay and slug it out too, but my sidekicks have it covered.”

“STOP CALLING US SIDEKICKS!” Roxy yelled.

“All right. Please be careful,” Rapunzel said. They nodded and left you and the others to it. You and the others took out all the Reaper Nobodies and Negaverses and regrouped.

“You know who uses Nobodies...” Rumi said. 

“The Organization!” Donald said. 

“Yeah. I'm surprised we haven't seen 'em,” Vanitas said. 

“I know you're there! Come out, you has-beens!” you called out, causing the twins to giggle. You and the others looked around and a corridor of darkness appeared behind you all.

“‘Has-beens’? Now why would you say that?” a familiar voice asked. A tall man with long pink hair emerged from the portal, peering at them through yellow eyes.

“Because, bossing around Nobodies? That's the old Organization,” you chuckled, the girls giggling behind you. “Why? Are you in the ‘real’ one too? Good for you.”

“My name is Marluxia, and yes, that is correct. How interesting it is to see you again, Sora and (Y/N).” 

“‘Again’?” Sora asked. You and Sora looked at Donald and Goofy confused. 

“Oh right, we remember,” Yui said. 

“A shame you've no memory of me, because I remember you exceedingly well. Although...it's THOSE memories I'd soon erase,” Marluxia said. 

“We have no idea what the hell you’re saying,” you said. 

“Nor should you. Nor will you ever, for that matter.” You, Rumi, Vanitas, and the trio glanced at him with confused faces while the twins glared at him. “Now, if you'll permit me, I've come to ask a favor.”

“Favor? You have got to be kidding me,” Vanitas said. You and the others nodded in agreement.

“Please hear what I have to say. I'm sure you've noticed...” Marluxia said. He mused on this for a moment and Sora raised his eyebrows for him to continue. “Well, perhaps not. But you should know that maiden with you, Rapunzel, is the very light of this world. I would see you guard her from its dark horrors.” 

“Huh?” you all asked, surprised. You all took defensive stances.

“Starting with you, right?” Roxy asked.

“All the Organization seeks is balance. You must understand, our ultimate objective is not to clash with the light. We seek to complement it. Use that Keyblade...to keep Rapunzel safe,” Marluxia said. He vanished in a corridor of darkness.

“Rapunzel’s light...” you said. Goofy scratched his face and Sora looked around.

“Hey. Where did they go?” he said.

“I guess they musta run on ahead,” Goofy said. 

“Then we'd better go find them,” Rumi said. You and the others continued through the forest in search of Flynn and Rapunzel. Soon the forest turned into marshland and the fog obscured your view ahead. Still no sign of them, Sora sighed.

“I wonder where they went,” he said. 

“Don't worry. They couldn't have gotten too far,” you said. A hooded figure quickly hid behind a tree.

“You just had to stop and talk to our Uncle Marluxia,” Roxy said. Mother Gothel peered at them from beneath her cloak.

“Hey! Blame the has-been, not us,” Sora said. Mother Gothel averted her gaze and began to leave.

“Hellooo? Rapunzel? Flynn?” Vanitas called. She stopped at Rapunzel's name and turned back, lowering her hood.

“Excuse me, good travelers. Do you know Rapunzel?” she said. You and the others turned to her as she walked toward you all and exchanged glances.

“Uh, yeah... Sort of,” Yui said. 

“Why?” Donald asked. 

“My apologies. I'm Rapunzel's mother. The poor child left home without a word, and I've just been worried sick. Please tell me: where is my dear, sweet girl?”

“We'd tell ya, but we lost her,” Goofy said.

“By accident,” Rumi said. 

“We could look together,” Sora said. 

“Lost her?” she scoffed. “You're of no use to me.” 

She waved you all off and continued walking.

“Bitch,” Roxy muttered.

“She ran away from home?” Donald asked. 

“What if Uncle Marluxia was onto something back there?” Yui asked. 

“You trust Organization XIII?” Vanitas asked. 

“What? No! Of course not. Not after what happened! But...what if?” 

“I agree. Why is Rapunzel in danger, and what darkness is after her?” Roxy said. 

“Well, guys, the first step is to find her,” Sora said. You and the others searched for Rapunzel and Flynn, eventually exiting the marshland into more bright forest. Soon, you all heard a voice.

“Wh-wh-whoa! Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa. Easy, boy, easy! Settle down. Whoa, whoa!” Rapunzel said. 

“That voice!” you said. 

“It's Rapunzel!” Rumi said. 

~Le Time Skip~

After meeting Maximus and regrouping, you and the others had arrived at the kingdom. You and the others crossed the bridge and entered the castle town, Rapunzel giggling to herself all the way. (i wished they added the scene where flynn and maximus fought each other over a poster)

“Rapunzel sure looks happy,” Vanitas said.

“She does,” you said. 

“Well, her dream's gonna come true. They're sendin' the lanterns up after dark,” Goofy said. 

“Cool! We don't wanna miss that!” Sora said. You and the others entered the Thoroughfare, where Rapunzel had her hair braided and adorned with wildflowers. She spotted a large tiled mural of the king and queen holding their baby daughter. She peered down where a girl was placing a flower at its base. Rapunzel looked up at the baby on the mural, who had green eyes and flowing blonde hair just like her. Music started suddenly, distracting her, and she gleefully began dancing in the street. A crowd of people gathered around and join in and Flynn stood watching her. Sora got an idea and pulled you onto the dance floor. 

“Sora, what the hell are you doing?” you asked. 

“I’m dancing with you. Come on!” he said. You giggled and danced with Sora. after dancing, you and the others headed towards the docks. As you were watching the lanterns, you remembered how you would watch lanterns with Vanitas on your birthday. You chuckled at the memory. 

“What?” Sora asked. 

“Before I met you and Riku, Vanitas and I would watch lanterns that came on my birthday, like Rapunzel,” you said. 

“Oh, yeah. I remember that,” Vanitas said. You all sensed a disturbance from behind as Reaper Nobodies and Negaverses appeared on the wharf. You all got up and turned around, irked.

“Seriously? You just had to ruin the moment?” you asked, sarcastically. 

“I don't think they appreciate the moment, (Y/N),” Yui said. 

“Not one bit!” Roxy said. 

“It's time for these wet blankets to go!” Sora said. You and the girls summoned your guardians while Sora and the others summoned their weapons. You all took care of the Nobodies and Negaverses plaguing the wharf as Rapunzel waited by the shore with Pascal. Out of the fog over the water emerged a small sailboat.

“Eugene?” she asked. From shore, she saw what looked like Flynn steering the sailboat with the stolen tiara in his hand.

“Eugene!” she said. Unknown to Rapunzel, he was out cold and tied to the mast and helm.

“Oh dear... He's run off with the crown and forgotten you,” Marluxia said as he appeared behind her. 

“No. He wouldn't. Who are you?” she said. He didn’t answer and she looked back at the boat, still drifting away.

“Forget Flynn Rider. You know where you belong, and it's not with him. Now...” Marluxia said. He motioned with his hand and two Reaper Nobodies appeared in front of Rapunzel along with two Negaverses. She ran away in fear and Marluxia smiled. She ran toward an opening between two large rocks, trying not to stumble when her braided hair caught on a fallen log. She pulled on it, trying to free it from the branch, when she heard a voice.

“Rapunzel!” Mother Gothel said. 

“Mother?” Rapunzel walked back to the shoreline, where the Nobodies and Negaverses had disintegrated and Mother Gothel stood with a tree branch in her arms, out of breath. She perked up at the sight of Rapunzel.

“Oh, my precious girl!” she said. 

“Mother...” Rapunzel ran into her mother’s arms. 

“Are you all right? Are you hurt?” Mother Gothel asked as she touched Rapunzel’s face. 

“M-Mother, how did you--”

“I was so worried about you, dear. So I followed you. And I saw them attack you, and--” Mother Gothel hugged Rapunzel tightly. “Oh my. Let's go. Let's go, before they come to.”

Rapunzel stopped and looked back at the boat on the lake. She slowly turned back to Mother Gothel, holding a green lantern in her hand. Rapunzel paused as Mother Gothel set the lantern down and opened her arms, beckoning her. Rapunzel's lip quivered and she started to cry, running into her mother's embrace. Mother Gothel stroked her hair as she sobbed. You and the others entered and saw the two leaving.

“Hey, isn't that Rapunzel?” Sora asked. He cupped his hands to his face. 

“Wait! Rapunz--” he shouted. Marluxia appeared in front of you all.

“Show some decorum,” he said.

“You again!” Donald said. 

“Uncle Marluxia!” the twins and Rumi said. 

“The girl has found her dear mother. You should let them be,” Marluxia said. 

“And why is that?” you asked. 

“Because Rapunzel is far too important. Atop her tower, she must remain out of sight, and live out her days with Mother Gothel.” 

“And never see anyone again?” Goofy asked. 

“But that's like...locking her in some prison!” Sora said. 

“That is EXACTLY what it's like. Rapunzel's hair holds the powerful magic of healing. And yes, Mother Gothel wants it for herself. As do others. And, if Mother Gothel's actions will protect Rapunzel, preserve her...then she is doing the Organization a favor.” 

“What favor?” Vanitas asked. 

“Let's say she's keeping Rapunzel on the shelf for us. An extra pawn in case you fail to find the remaining guardians of light, and we have occasion to call on other hearts of light instead. A New Seven Hearts to fill out the ranks.” 

“‘New seven hearts’?” Yui asked. 

“Yes. Seven who inherited the princesses' light after their role was fulfilled.”

“So, you don't care about her. You guys just want Rapunzel for your own purposes! Well, you're done here! ODILE!” you said as you summoned Odile while Sora summoned his Keyblade.

“Hmph. I just knew you would go and make a scene. Very well, then it's lights out for you,” Marluxia said. He extended a hand, blowing a pink wind toward you and Sora. He dropped the Keyblade while Odile disappeared, your eyes drooping.

“Sora! (Y/N)!” Vanitas and the others said. They ran towards you and him as your vision got hazy, your ears muffled.

“You two were always such sound sleepers,” Marluxia said as you and Sora fell to the ground. 

“What did you do?!” Roxy asked. 

“Nothing that would harm Sora.” 

“But what about (Y/N)?” Yui growled. Just then, Negaverses surrounded you and the group. 

“You son of a bitch...” Vanitas said. The twins growled and stood up. They linked their hands together and raised their other hands in the air. 

“SAPPHITE, WE SUMMON YOU!” they yelled. Fire surrounded the twins and their wolves were summoned. Rumi stood up as well and gathered enough wind to summon her guardian. 

“COME TO ME, NYX!” she yelled. The wind formed the shape of her bear guardian and Nyx was formed. 

“Have fun, girls,” Marluxia said as he disappeared. The twins growled and attacked a Negaverse. 

“Vanitas, watch over (Y/N) and Sora. We’ll handle things,” Yui said. Vanitas nodded and ran over to you and Sora. The girls, Donald, and Goofy started attacking the Negaverses and defeated all of them. Meanwhile, a recently escaped Flynn dashed on Maximus over the bridge away from the city. The morning sun brightened the sky as he rode toward the forest, encountering Donald, Rumi, the twins, Vanitas, and Goofy hovering over a still-sleeping you and Sora.

“Whoa, Max! Whoa, boy,” he said. Maximus stopped in front of you and the others.

“Flynn!” Vanitas said. 

“Are Sora and (Y/N) okay?” Flynn asked. 

“We don't know,” Rumi said. 

“We keep callin' their names and shakin' them, but they won't open their eyes,” Goofy said.

“Sora!” Donald said. 

“(Y/N)!” Vanitas said.

“Wake up!” Yui said. 

“Hmm... Unresponsive sidekick... Wait a minute. I know how to fix this! Max, give them a wash!” Flynn said. Maximus licked you and Sora's face with his long tongue, rousing the two of you from your sleep. You and Sora opened your eyes seeing Flynn and Maximus looking down at the two of you. Donald and the others peeked into view.

“Sora! (Y/N)!” they said as you and Sora sat up.

“Well, that did the trick. Nice work, Max!” Flynn said. Maximus smiled haughtily. Sora stood and held his head while you leaned on Roxy for support. 

“Huh? How did we end up...” Sora asked. Suddenly, the events came back to you and Sora. 

“Oh no! Flynn, Rapunzel's being held prisoner!” you said. Donald and the others nodded in agreement. 

“That's right. In her mother's tower. This calls for a rescue,” Flynn said. He smiled down at Sora and extended a hand. “Are you with me?” 

“Yeah!” Sora said. Flynn pulled Sora up onto the horse with a proud cackle. The twins summoned Sapphite and you, Vanitas, and Rumi climbed on while Donald and Goofy climbed on Maximus. Maximus's legs buckled, struggling to hold them up, but his face changed to one of determination. He let out a whinny and stood straight up.

“Let's go, Max,” Flynn said. Maximus reared back and charged forward, Saphhite following close behind. You all raced through the forest in the direction of the tower, when you all were intercepted by a group of Nobodies and Negaverses. 

“Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, Max!” Flynn said. Sora, Donald and Goofy nodded to each other and jumped off Maximus and Vanitas jumped off Sapphite, summoning their weapons while you and the girls summoned your weapons while still on Sapphite. 

“We'll take it from here, Flynn. Go help Rapunzel,” Yui said.

“Thanks!” Flynn said. He took off with Maximus, leaving the Nobodies to you and the others. As you all followed along through the forest, the path was filled with Heartless. You and the others defeated each wave in turn. By the time you all arrived, Flynn had climbed up and entered the tower.

“Rapunzel! I thought I'd never see you again,” he said. He looked up, seeing Rapunzel chained and gagged. Her eyes widen as Mother Gothel sneaked behind him, striking a hidden dagger into his side. Rapunzel struggled to get free, crying out as Flynn fell over onto the floor. Mother Gothel looked down at him, squirming in pain on the stone floor. She tugged on Rapunzel's chains trying to lead her deeper into the tower, the girl desperate to get free.

“Rapunzel, really! Enough already! Stop fighting me!” Mother Gothel said. Rapunzel, pulling back, lost her balance and fell over, the gag slipping from her mouth.

“No! I won't stop! For every minute of the rest of my life, I will fight! I will never stop trying to get away from you! But...if you let me save him, I will go with you,” she said. Mother Gothel raised an eyebrow.

“No! No, Rapunzel...” Flynn grunted as he attempted to crawl on the floor but the pain was too great. Pascal looked on helplessly.

“I'll never run... I'll never try to escape. Just let me heal him...and you and I will be together--forever, just like you want. Every- thing will be the way it was. I promise. Just like you want. Just...let me heal him,” Rapunzel said. Mother Gothel released Rapunzel and shackled Flynn.

“In case you get any ideas about following us,” she said to Flynn. Rapunzel rushed to Flynn's side.

“Eu...Eugene!” she said. She brushed the hair out of his eyes and he clutched his side, struggling to sit up against the wall. She checked at his wound, obviously bleeding.

“Oh, I'm so sorry. Everything is gonna be okay, though,” she said as she gathered her hair into her arms.

“No...Rapunzel...” Flynn groaned. 

“I promise. You have to trust me.” She placed the hair over his wound.

“No! I can't let you do this.” They stared into each other's eyes.

“And I can't let you die.” 

“But if you do this...” Rapunzel touched his face. “...but if you do this, then you will die.” 

“Hey. It's gonna be all right,” she whispered. He gave the very smallest of smiles.

“Rapunzel... Wait,” he said. He began to stroke her hair, his face moving closer to hers, and with a swift motion cut off her hair with a shard of the broken mirror. His hand fell to the floor, dropping the glass, as her hair turned brown, its healing ability lost. She looked down at him in shock.

“Eugene, what--” she asked. Absolute terror erupted from Mother Gothel's face.

“No!” she screamed. From the strand in Rapunzel's hands, the once golden locks of hair turned a deep brown. Mother Gothel tried to gather them up in her arms before the magic was lost.

“Oh no. No...” she said. Unable to stop the transformation, she grabbed her hand, watching it become wrinkled and withered.

“What have you done? What have you DONE?!” she asked. The aging spread across her body like a weed, her skin turning pale and her hair a pallid gray. She screamed out in sudden shrieks, her body moving feebly, as she covered her decrepit face with her hood. She writhed about the room, crossing closer to the window, where Pascal pulled on the long bunch of hair, causing her to spill out of the tower. She screamed as she fell, aging out of existence, the shroud flying downward through the air as you and the others reached the base of the tower. Marluxia watched from the hill.

“Fallen to darkness... We can't allow her near our pure light now. Her presence would only cast a pall over it,” he said. He motioned with his arm, suspending the cloak in midair surrounded by petals of pink. An orb of darkness burst forth and branch-like limbs erupted from within, followed by a tail. Another set of limbs, and the creature crashed to the ground, the darkness pulling back, revealing a large tree-like Heartless, the Grim Guardianess. It growled down at you and the others, who summon your weapons along with the guardians. 

“What happened up there?” Sora asked. 

“I don't know, but we have to stop that Heartless,” Donald said. The Grim Guardianess flew toward you and the others, its tail moving like a serpent, as its large mane of leaves crashed to the ground, sending pollen everywhere. Donald and Goofy were sent into a sneezing fit as thorns surrounded you, Vanitas, the twins, Rumi, and Sora. You all struggled to get free of the thorns' grip before the Heartless slithered around the tower, spiraling to the top. You all broke free from the thorny tether as cherries fell from the sky. You and the others raced across the hill avoiding the cages of vines that blocked your way, as the cherry bombs exploded on impact with the ground. Dodging the torrent of bombs, you and Sora reached the tower and ran up its stone exterior. The Heartless was soon no match for you and Sora, his Keyblade and Odile and was knocked from the tower (this took me months to get past). Inside, Rapunzel clutched Flynn.

“Don't go. Stay with me, Eugene,” she said. You and the others ascended the tower, seeing Rapunzel over Flynn's body. She grabbed his arm and placed it against her hair.

“Flower, gleam and glow. Let your power shine. Make the clock reverse,” she sang through her tears.

“Rapunzel,” Flynn said as he opened his eyes. 

“Bring back what once was mine,” she sang. Flynn touched her face. 

“Hey. Rapunzel,” he said. 

“What?” she asked as she held his hand.

“Rapunzel... You were my new dream.” 

“And you were mine.” Flynn blinked once more and his eyes closed, his body falling limp. You and the others looked on sadly as she moved her hand toward his face.

“Heal what has been hurt. Change the Fates' design. Save what has been lost. Bring back what once was mine,” she sang. She moved her hand over his heart and leaned in closer, her face nearly touching his, her song nearly a whisper. “What once was mine.”

She sobbed, a tear falling onto the rogue's skin. It settled there, glowing into the shape of a flower. A light burst forth from Flynn's wound, wrestling Rapunzel from her sorrow. You and the others stared open-mouthed at this sight. The healing magic swirled into the air like strands of hair, wisping around Rapunzel, her eyes wide. A six-pointed flower magically bloomed from the wound, before the light disappeared inside of him. She moved closer to his face, brushing the hair out of her eyes as Flynn slowly took a breath and opened his eyes.

“Rapunzel...” he said. She gasped. 

“Eugene,” she said. 

“Did I ever tell you...I've got a thing for brunettes?” He smiled and Rapunzel was overcome by joy.

“Eugene!” she said. She threw her arms around him and he leaned on his side to embrace her. You and the others smiled with glee and Sora threw his arms around you and Vanitas, grinning from ear to ear and Flynn tightened his hold on Rapunzel. Later, you all stood at the base of the tower, the warm sunlight bathing over you.

“Wow, Rapunzel! You're finally gonna get to see your real home,” you said. 

“I know! I mean...I can't believe it. I can finally be with my real family! I couldn't have done it without your help,” Rapunzel said. 

“You’re welcome,” Rumi said. Rapunzel giggled.

“Well, from where I'm standing, the Kingdom couldn't ask for a better princess. And I couldn't have asked for better sidekicks!” Flynn said. 

“For the last time, we’re not sidekicks!” Roxy said. 

“Anyways, thanks for everything.” 

“Yes, thank you so much,” Rapunzel said. 

“Happily ever after,” Donald said. Sora crossed his arms.

“Mm-hmm,” he said. 

“Now, Flynn, you and Maximus play nice,” Goofy said. Maximus and Flynn exchanged glances.

“Huh?” Flynn asked. Maximus whinnied with laughter. “Fine.”

Rapunzel took Flynn's hand and they stared into each other's eyes.

“You're gonna be great,” Yui said. 

“Huh?” Flynn and Rapunzel asked. 

“We haven't seen the guy controlling the monsters in a while, so that's one less worry,” Vanitas said. 

“But there's still a chance that he might be around here somewhere,” you said. 

“Well, if he comes back and tries to bother Rapunzel again, then Flynn will keep her safe. And we three won’t be far behind,” Sora said. 

“Come on. Rapunzel's the tough one, if you ask me,” Roxy said. 

“True. But nevertheless, I won't let her out of my sight,” Flynn said. 

“Oh... Eugene,” Rapunzel smiled. 

“‘Eugene?’” you and Sora asked. 

“Oh! That's my real name. Eugene Fitzherbert. That's right. I never told you guys,” Flynn chuckled. 

“That’s different,” Rumi said. 

“I think it's a great name!” Goofy said. 

“Me too. Nice to re-meet you, Eugene,” you said.

“Hey! I thought I was the only one you were going to tell,” Rapunzel said to Eugene. 

“Don't worry. I've saved plenty of Fitzherbert-y secrets just for you.” 

“Really?” 

“Hey! What are you two lovebirds talking about?” Sora said (he’s so innocent).

“Nothing!” Flynn said. 

“Hey, you can tell us!” Donald said. 

“Yeah, it's not nice to keep secrets,” Goofy said.

“You know what they mean, right?” Roxy asked Yui. 

“Oh yeah,” Yui replied. 

“This one is none of your business,” Eugene said. Vanitas chuckled.

“Maximus, get him!” he said. 

“Huh?” Maximus glared at Eugene, an inch from his face, and Eugene stopped, unsure of what to anticipate. Pascal crawled onto Rapunzel's shoulder with a determined look and jumped over to Eugene's, sending his long sticky tongue into his ear. Eugene reeled back and clutched his ear, Pascal jumping off with a squeal of glee.

“You have got to be kidding me!” Eugene said. You and the others burst out laughing. Maximus smiled at Eugene, waggling his eyebrows as Pascal chilled on Eugene's head. Soon after, you and the others left the Kingdom of Corona.