While exploring Traverse Town, Sora is approached by a woman. Suddenly, a Soldier appears and steals her heart and shatters it, causing her to disappear. When several Shadows appear as well, Sora decides to take shelter in a nearby shop. Cid, the shopkeeper tells him to get out if he's not buying anything, but when he hears the Heartless, he grabs a cannon and obliterates them. Cid explains the creatures are called Heartless. When Sora asks him if he really is in another world, Cid explains how people who lose their home arrive in Traverse Town, and suggests Sora looks around town for his friends. As Sora leaves the Accessory Shop, a man waits for him outside, claiming the Heartless are coming after his Keyblade.