In the beginning of Kingdom Hearts, Riku and Sora are the best of friends. Unfortunately, this friendship is soon put to the test as Riku decides that life on Destiny Island isn't enough for him. Riku and Sora, despite being friends were always having friendly little competitions with each other, be it fighting with wooden swords or simply having footraces. It's hinted that both characters are in love with and are in competition, but not a whole lot is made of this early on. "What? You'd rather fight me? Over a puppet that has no heart?" - Riku