Aqua eventually arrives in the Dark Meridian, where she encounters Ansem the Wise, who was hurled into the Realm after his contraption burst. He discloses that it has been nearly twelve years in the Realm of Light, and he narrates the events that have transpired during Aqua's absence, including Sora's activities. When asked how he knows about these things, Ansem says that he has been watching over Aqua since her birth. Ansem then tells Aqua that she must return to the Realm of Light to save both worlds, but first, she will have to face Riku vengefully back at Castle Oblivion. Before leaving, however, he gives her a Keyblade so that she can continue fighting for both worlds. After receiving the Keyblade from Ansem, Aqua sets out on her journey back to Destiny Island. Now, it is important to know that while in the Realm of Darkness, your heart becomes hardened - you cannot feel any more pain, and there is no hope for ever escaping - but just when you think that you can't take any more, they open up a new door somewhere else. There are many doors leading out of the Realm of Darkness, and some are only accessible by those who are most worthy. Aqua finally makes it back to Destiny Island, where she finds Riku waiting for her. They battle each other once again, this time with even more fury than before.