Eh, to me Kairi's character has been regressing.
KH1, girl loses her heart, unconsciously gets stolen, follows on Riku's warning and uses her brains to at least escape, protects Sora from shadows, then remains irrelevant.
KH2 set up a welcoming side of rebellion & dedication, but lacks in the proactiveness during the 3rd act. However I like how she wasn't waiting around for something to happen. she had a goal and despite running into obstacles, her spirit never gave in. Wasn't it hardcore enough that she jumped from a balustrade without any damage. Oh yeah, the scene that follows treated her like ditzy bee. But at least aside from a few portions of rushed or lazy writing, she was treated as character that was taking steps into a better direction that felt more mature. Many disagree, but what gives. I liked her better here.
And then KH3 happened, ho ho, the girl got sliced! Her strength this time around was her words of speech.
"Let me keep you safe"
1 day later
. Standing paralyzed like a deer in the headlights, saved by Sora
. Swept away in a demon tower
. Barely stands a chance against Xion. Watch the scene again, and you'll see that Kairi was dodging and not attempting to fight.
. Oh oh! kidnapped again. But my left hand is still open, and so is my legs. Shouldn't I kick him or at least use my free hand to reach or summon for my key? No okay just gonna let the writing treat me like an object. I'm sorry, but did you really do any training girl?
. Dies a painful death later on.
No surprise though. After DDD I wouldn't expect as much.
And what happened to Aqua's character in 3?