Disclaimer: I do not own Kingdom Hearts, any of the characters (Except for Sable), and am simply writing this for my own amusement.

A/N: As the sequel to my previous fic, Foreshadowing Rancor, this story will pick up where I left off and detail her journey alongside Sora-and-company as they search for Riku whilst combating the machinations of world villains and Organization XIII alike. What all will they do? Do read and find out.

Acknowledgments: Firstly, I would like to thank Devaro Ayanami for his wonderful help as both my Beta and my sounding-board. Secondly, I would like to thank Cyber Angel Rowan , who's vibrant, though brief, review inspired me to post this now, rather than later. Thirdly, I would like to thank Vathara for all the wonderful stories -which I highly recommend you read- she has posted. Reading them has helped me find ways of expanding my own writing style.


Evil men do not understand justice,

But those who seek the Lord understand all.

~Proverbs 28:5 (NKJ)

Chapter 2
Rendezvous at Hollow Bastion

So the moniker 'Gummi' isn't just a joke. Experimentally Sable pushed against the semi-solid walls. It's…a lot like Jell-O, actually…

A vibration shook the wall she was leaning against as Donald steered the ship away from the Sorcerer's Loft. I wonder if I'll end up lamenting the lack of a fourth chair… The trio having taken the only seats available.

Oh well, a shrug, I'll deal with it if the situation arises.

Static sounded, signaling the activation of the communications system as a screen on the front console activated.

"Howdy, Sora! How ya doin'?"

Violet blinked at the familiar high-tenor voice, eyeing the small, furry figures on the screen.

"It's your favorite Gummi engineers here," A second, equally tenorish voice continued, "ready for duty: Chip-"

"-and Dale!"

"Happy flying!" the chipmunk brothers cheered, giving twin salutes before the video feed shrunk to a smaller size.

Smile tugging at her lips, Sable glanced out the window as the world of Twilight Town shrunk beneath them.

It's like an aurora. She noted as the ship crossed the vast sea of emptiness. A colorful cloud-like nebula surrounded them, broken up only by the monstrous meteors that drifted through the in-between formed as Sable took it all in. Beautiful... An anticipatory smirk. I'm actually going to different worlds, it seems almost like a dream…

A familiar laugh disturbed her musings, making Sable glance forward.

"Donald," Goofy chuckled heartily, "this story is funny! Wanna read it?"

"Can't you see I'm trying to fly this ship?!" Donald snapped without looking back.

An indignant yelp as feathered limbs connected with the Gummi's floor.

"Take a break Donald!" Sora chirped, squeezing into the forcefully vacated pilot's seat.

"What?!" Horrified, Donald shot to his feet, eyes wide, "I don't think that's such a-"

"Oh, don't worry!" Hands eagerly grasped the control stick.

"Sora! The last time I let you fly you crashed the ship!"

Yes, that would be cause for concern, wouldn't it? Sable snickered quietly behind a politely raised hand.

"Which way are we headed?" Sora asked, ignoring the magician and banking the ship sharply.

Alarmed yelps followed.

"Stop! We're gonna hit that meteor!"

The ship spun in a tight barrel roll.

Centripetal force- Hands gripped the wall -very useful. Violet eyes blinked dizzily as the ship's orientation was corrected.

A sigh of relief, blue eyes shining brightly.

"That's enough!" Another indignant squawk as Donald man-handled the boy out of the seat. "Give me back the control stick!"

"Come on-" Sora pouted, slinking back to his chair. "-I was just getting warmed up."

White fingers had the stick in a death grip. "No means NO!"

"Are you even qualified to drive?" Sable quipped, dizzy spell passed. Chip and Dale, she noticed, seemed visibly amused by the exchange and-was that popcorn?

Goofy groaned, swaying in his seat, book forgotten on the floor.

"Don't be so stingy!" Sora hollered

"Navigator!" Donald roared, temple vein bulging.

"Stingy, stingy!"

Donald wheeled on him, "Shut up! Navigator!"

"What's up captain?" Dale queried innocently from around a piece of popcorn.

"Which way should we be heading?" Donald ground out, still incensed.

A thoughtful hum. "Let's see…" Chip turned to his console and a map appeared on-screen. "This is the only gate that's open right now." The image zoomed in to the only visible world aside from Twilight Town.

"Only one?" Sora leaned forward, disappointed

"That's no good!" Donald agreed, frowning.

"Wait! I think it's a world we know!" Goofy commented.

"It leads to…Hollow Bastion." Chip declared.

Suddenly the trio crowded around the screen eagerly. "That's where Leon lives!" Sora grinned brightly, he glanced back at Sable. "He's a friend we met on our last adventure." He explained.

"I see." Sable hummed, then smirked. "Why don't we go visit them, then?"

/\/\/\

Feet planted on firm cobblestone. Sable swayed slightly as stars danced across her eyes. That was…disconcerting. Semi-loved fingers ran through dark hair. She shot a sideways glance towards her companions. And of course they aren't bothered in the least.

"Gawrsh, it's been a while." Goofy noted, looking around. "And things look quite different." They approached a brick ledge overlooking an overpass, giving an excellent view of a large castle, apparently in the middle of being renovated judging from all the construction cranes and scaffolding.

Shaking off her vertigo, Sable trailed behind the group. That's where they fought Xehanort's Heartless, I think. It certainly looks like the kind of place it could have happened. She eyed the stone architecture. The atmosphere is much darker here than back in Twilight Town…

Donald surveyed the area. "I hope Leon and the other's are alright."

Violet glanced first around then traveled upwards. One brow arched up. "Looks like we're in for a fight." A finger pointed towards the roof in question.

The others glanced up just in time to see a couple of Soldier Heartless vanish from sight. They exchanged glances, then shared sighs of exasperation.

A second dark brow joined the first. Now that's an interesting response. She mused as they followed a descending stone staircase. This is the Market Place, I believe.

"This place used to be like a ghost town with so many Heartless." Donald looked around with interest as he followed the pavement.

"Look!" Goofy approached a booth. "They even have shops now!" He paused, studying the merchandise. "Although the items on sale are quite dangerous." He noted, picking up a morning star mace.

Donald saddled up to the booth with a gleam in his eye.

Sable blinked. That looks like the shell of the turtle enemies in Super Mario…

"How do I look?" Cloth cap in hand, the magician posed with the helmet from one of the displays. The effect was ruined by the way the shell-helmet fell down over his eyes.

Violet eyes rolled. "Ridiculous." She stated, tone blasé, growing impatient. "C'mon, I want to see more of this place-"

"Over there! Heartless!"

Reflexively, Sable's head jerked in the direction Sora pointed. Blinked.

I didn't think a Shadow could pull off a 'deer-in-headlights' look… Said Heartless quickly scurried off the other side of the wall.

Black cloth flapped as Sora nimbly leapt after it, vanishing from sight.

"Man, they're like ninjas!" Donald groused.

"Which one do you mean?" Sable quipped as they hurried after the key bearer.

He's certainly quick. Sable slid across cobblestone. He got all the way to the Borough in only a few seconds. A pause, shoe soles skidding across stone. I overshot… She turned-

-and blinked back stars at a sudden burst of light. Momentarily blinded, she felt more than saw the cause of the light loop around her once before vanishing.

Perhaps I should invest in a pair of goggles, or sunglasses. She mused, trying to banish the stars from her eyes. This seems to be becoming a common occurrence…

Her skin prickled with a slight burning sensation as several more flashes erupted, vanishing just as quickly.

"Hey, what's going on?!" Donald demanded.

"That's the town's defense mechanism." A voice chimed helpfully.

In unison, the quartet looked up to find the source. Sable blinked again as the stars faded, allowing her eyes to focus once more.

"Yuffie!" Sora's grin seemed to light up the whole area.

Gray eyes lit up in recognition. "Sora, it's really you! Long time no see!" Her gaze flickered past them, then her eyes widened in alarm. "Look out!"

Her neck prickled, Sable spun, Darkness flashed as her hand shot out. The would-be assailant Dusk spasmed, the dark whip running it through, before bursting.

Ice seemed to lance through her arm as Soul Eater appeared. In her peripheral vision, Sable saw another Dusk weave away from Sora's retaliation.

Thorny spines of white swirled as more Dusks appeared. Dusks and-

A harsh note like a reed whistle sounded as blades sung through the air. Impulse overtaking thought, Sable dropped low.

A Samurai… Arm pulled back, grip reversed, Sable Guarded against the follow-through lunge.

Brace, skid back, flex and counter. The Samurai slid back and seemed to study her curiously.

Perhaps the Organization sent it to see if Sora would recognize Roxas's Nobodies… A quick glance. No, I don't suppose he does… Of course, he might not have even seen it yet-

"Power!" Sora shouted, arms snapping back.

Black bled into red, Goofy vanished and a second Keyblade materialized. Sora grabbed it, grinned, and dived forward with reckless abandon.

I wonder if not requesting Drive Forms was a mistake… Violet eyes took in the sudden lack of Nobodies. They certainly give a useful power boost-Oh, what's that?

Kneeling next to the oddly glinting piece of cobblestone, Sable picked up a metallic object. It shines copper and sunset colors…why would a Nobody have something like this? A frown. Come to think of it, I think I picked up a few other things like this… Usually she'd just pocket whatever was dropped reflexively. I wonder what I'll find in my bag when I finally sort through it? Straightening, she turned-

Another painful flash left her momentarily blinded as Sora's clothes returned to normal as Goofy reappeared. The captain-of-the-guard looked somewhat dizzy but exhilarated.

"That was kinda fun." He commented.

With a nimble leap and Yuffie landed on their level. "I see you guys are still in top form." She grinned.

"Well what did you expect?" Sora matched the grin. "It looks like you guys are doing alright."

"Well what did you expect?" Yuffie returned, gray eyes landed on the guard and mage. "Hi Ronald! Hi, Zoofy!"

"It's Donald and Goofy!" Donald snapped as Goofy laughed at the mistake with good humor.

Suddenly noticing the fourth member of the group, Yuffie didn't seem to hear the rebuke. "And who are you?"

"Sable, I'm new." Sable dipped her head politely. She's rather…peppy.

Yuffie looked her up and down curiously before looking grinning at Sora again. "I can't believe it's been a year…" she murmured, her gaze moving upward to the castle above. "The castle's being renovated." She gestured to the large construction cranes.

"Yeah, looks amazing." Sora nods, looking up at the looming castle.

"We're just patching the pieces together-" Wistful gray grew clouded. "-but this is our home, and I want it to be peaceful-" She looked at them, a determined look on her face. "-no matter how long it takes."

"You've a lot of work ahead of you." Sable noted, eyeing the crumbled walls and detached towers. "But it'll be worth it in the end."

Yuffie beamed at the raven-haired girl.

"Is there anything we can do to yelp?" Goofy asked.

"Yeah! Thanks!" Short hair bobbed happily, "Leon'll be so glad when he sees you guys!"

"Oh!" Blue eyes lit up, "Did Riku or the King come here?"

The ninja blinked, then looked apologetic. "Nope." She shook her head, "you haven't found them yet?"

Sora drooped, sighing heavily. "Uh-uh."

"But I had a feeling that I'd see you guys again." Yuffie added quickly, grinning.

Blue eyes blinked, then Sora straightened up with a mock frown. "We may never meet again, but we'll never forget each other." He intoned, pitching his voice in a deep baritone.

"Is that supposed to be Leon?" Yuffie laughed. Donald, Goofy and Sable chuckled at Sora's imitation of the solemn gun-blade user.

"Hey!" A feathered arm pointed at a nearby roof.

"It's a Nobody!"

"Yeah," Yuffie sighed. "That's just one of the problems."

A flash, Sable flinched back instinctively as the Dusk was flung from the roof to the ground near the group's feet.

"Hey, what's that?"Sora pointed as more light flashed, bouncing the unfortunate Nobody around like a ball.

"Claymore." Yuffie's head bobbed as the Dusk was bounced around. "We use it to chase off Heartless. We're still a long way off from reaching peace."

"Wow." Sora breathed as the Dusk finally burst. Sable winced in sympathy.

Suddenly Yuffie perked up. "Our secret hideout is right around the corner."

Sable quirked a bemused brow. Secret hideout?

With an energetic bounce the ninja darted down the path, "C'mon!"

Sora perked up, "Secret hideout?!" Brown spikes bouncing with each step, the key-bearer ran after the ninja.

"Some things never change." Donald sighed.

/\/\/\

Dark. Violet eyes blinked to adjust as Sable trailed in last. Except for that computer screen…not exactly good for one's eyes.

Three silhouettes, obscured by conflicting light sources, could be seen around the large monitor.

"Meet the Hollow Bastion Restoration Committee!"

Don't jump. Sable told herself firmly as Yuffie leapt seemingly out of the woodwork, and do not attack.

The three in front of the monitor turned, their features becoming visible.

"Looks like we found our 'bomb'." Cid, the committee technician, laughed around his toothpick.

"We missed you." Pale green eyes glowed as Aerith smiled benignly.

She feels…safe. Sable noted, feeling her body unintentionally relax at the other woman's voice. Comfortable…like a mother, almost.

Goggles glinting in artificial light, Cid Highwind studied the trio critically, "Well, ain't you in top shape."

"I knew it." Leon murmured in a matter-a-fact tone.

"Knew what?" Sora asked the older man, head tilting inquisitively.

"A while back-" the mercenary explained. "-everyone suddenly remembered you guys, all at the same time."

The trio all started. "You…remembered?" Sora parroted, blue eyes first puzzled then outraged, "Wait! Does that mean you forgot about us?!"

Insulted, Donald frowned sulkily. "Thanks." He grumbled.

"So where've you guys been all this time?" Yuffie queried, gray eyes alight with curiosity.

"We were sleepin'." Goofy responded sincerely.

I'd be puzzled too if I didn't know what happened first hand. Sable thought sympathetically at the bewildered expressions shared by the adults.

"Where?" Cid spoke, tone joking. "In cold storage?"

And now they're embarrassed. Amused violet observed the trio shift sheepishly, looking anywhere but their friends.

A snort escaped her, drawing several startled looks in her direction. "Somethin' like that." A toothy smirk flashed in the dim lighting as she left the wall and moved to stand behind her companions.

"Sable!" Sora yelped, blushing. Sable's smirk merely broadened.

"Who are you?" Leon demanded, half curious half suspicious.

Sable met the mercenary's gaze evenly. "Sable." was all she said.

There was a pregnant pause as the pair stared each other down.

"It doesn't matter." Aerith broke the silence. "This is great. Everyone's together again!"

"So, um…we're trying to find Riku and the King. Have you seen 'em?" Cerulean eyes shone hopefully. He wilted when he was met with negatory head shakes. "Right…"

"Sorry." Sad green watched him. "But let us know if there's anything we can do to help." Sora perked up slightly. "Okay?"

"Okay?" Brown spikes bobbed. "Thanks-" he stumbled back sharply as Cid suddenly loomed over him.

"Don't go thankin' us just yet." The pilot began.

"Hollow Bastion's got a problem," Leon nodded, growing even more solemn. "A big problem."

Sora peeked over Cid's shoulder. "You mean, like Nobodies? And Heartless?"

"That's right!" Yuffie chirped.

"So it seems we'll be the ones helping you." Sable noted. It's actually rather ironic if you think about it…

"Then let's cut to the chase." The older brunette approached them. "Sora, Donald, Goofy…and Sable. We were hoping the four of you might give us a hand around here."

Sora grinned cheekily up at him. "Like we're gonna say no?" His witty tone got a chuckle out of Leon.

Folding his arms, the older brunette examined the quartet thoughtfully. "…I forgot who I was dealing with." He reflected aloud.

Dark eyes narrowed suspiciously, "Hey…" Donald crossed his arms, "What do ya mean by that?"

"Just think of it as a sort of…'Leon compliment'." Aerith suggested from by Leon's shoulder. The mercenary simply smirked, then walked past them.

"Follow me to the Bailey-" he called over his shoulder. "There's something you need to see."

Pulling away from her companions, Sable followed the mercenary out the door and down the stone-laden street.

Violet eyes glanced up, just catching sharp blue shift focus. A faint smirk formed. He's curious. Now…should she have pity on him, or wait for him to ask first?

I don't care for talking, she decided, if he wants to know, he'll have to ask-

"So…you're another Keyblade Master?" Leon inquired, glancing down at the teenager.

Ebony hair shook negatively. "I'm afraid not…nothing nearly so chivalrous."

A brown brow quirked at the odd phrase. "Care to elaborate?"

A careless shrug. "I suppose you could say I'm…what Light casts."

Blue eyes narrowed with mild annoyance at the cryptic phrase before sharpening with realization. "Darkness?" he demanded, "You're a user of Darkness?"

A nod. "Correct-"

A sudden chill prickled her neck.

Sable ducked, her attempted assailant flying overhead. Her hand shot out and Darkness crackled. The Shadow Heartless writhed at the end of her whip, then dispersed. Movement in her peripheral made her pivot sharply, Soul Eater coalescing in her hand as she blocked flailing claws. Leaning back she moved with the blow, twisted, and swung up, neatly bisecting the second Shadow.

More chills ran through her arms, forming goose bumps in their wake.

Oh great, an ambush. Nimbly evading her assailants, her eyes glanced to the side. …And I'm the one they're gunning for. A soft sigh. Oh well, no matter. A predatory glint entered violet, and Soul Eater danced.

"That's either the worst attempt at looking innocent I've ever seen…" Leon began as the last of the ambush was dispatched. "Or you're as much a Heartless magnet as Sora is with his Keyblade."

Sable shrugged. "Take it as you will, I don't honestly care." She blew a stray bang from her face. "All the same, I suspect we'll be victim to several more ambushes before we reach the Bailey."

/\/\/\

Sometimes, I hate being right. Sable sighed mentally a few minutes later as she deflected another attack. For mindless creatures of instinct, they sure seem good at coordinating their attacks.

From behind bends in the road, out of shadowed corners, even from the support beams of overhead bridges once or twice. Sometimes a second ambush would attempt to creep in while they were dealing with the first. Making it rather difficult to remember that no they were not working together deliberately and their timing was simply coincidental.

They were very persistent.

And annoying.

"I'm beginning to think-" Deflect overhead claws while flexing both back and hips away from a low sweep. "-that these Heartless have it in for me."

Her dry humor invoked a short chuckle from Leon.

Thankfully, for Sable's rather worn patience, the ambush ended as they finally reached their destination.

Now all we have to do is wait for Sora and the others…

/\/\/\

"Here," Sable blinked at the proffered blue orb, then sent a the shorter brunette a quizzical. The Keybearer just grinned. "It's a magic spell. Merlin wanted me to give it to you."

Silently, the raven-haired teen accepted the orb. A Blizzard spell… she barely restrained a startled yelp as the orb melted into her hand. A feeling of intense cold formed in her chest. Like eating too much ice cream at once. She grimaced as the feeling faded and the spell settled. Only without the brain freeze.

"So how can I help?" Sora looked up at Leon curiously.

The mercenary sighed. "We're trying to put Hollow Bastion back together…Who knows," He shook his head eyes, wistful. "Maybe even something better." He paused, grimacing, "But we have some…problems…" He breathed in. "There's still a lot to do, but I'm sure we can handle everything- Except…" Here he paused, grimacing again, "for that…"

"What?" Blue eyes followed the directive finger. "Is that a fort?"

Sable squinted, then paled. "Look at the bottom." She suggested weakly. A heavy sense of dread formed in the pit of her stomach. That's…

"Are those all Heartless?!" Sora yelped, eyes wide and complexion whitening.

Donald quivered, "I'm getting goose bumps."

And we're going to have to fight them. Sable swallowed. All of them.

"And that." Leon added almost apologetically, pointing to a spot a little closer to their position.

Dusks. Sable identified, eyeing the white figures sauntering leisurely through the Great Maw. Great, more good news.

"I hate to ask this…" Leon glanced at them. "But…I want you to help us get rid of them-"

"Of course!" Unease forgotten, Sora's eyes grew bright with determination as he looked over the wall. "It looks like lava boiled in soy sauce."

Wh…what? Black hair shook with exasperation. Talk about a sparrow-mentality.

"That's 'cause they're all far away!" Donald barked.

Sora studied both for a long moment before grinning. "We'll handle 'em!"

A breath of relief. "Well that's good to hear." Grateful blue met shining cerulean. "So, Sora-do you know what's going on, then?"

A crisp nod. "There's this guy, Pete, going around plotting with the Heartless." Sora explained quickly, "But he's not smart enough to tie his own shoes."

"Thus the likely reason as to why he was wearing strap-on shoes rather than lace-ups." Sable couldn't help but quip, smirking at the resulting laughter.

"Anyway," Sora continued, recovering. "The ones we really need to worry about are the Nobodies-"

"Those white-things you've been seeing." Sable added helpfully.

"And those Organization Thirteen guys in charge, too!" Goofy finished.

"You called?"

Sable froze at the familiar baritone voice. "Trouble comes when least expected." Violet glanced around warily. "But comes in mass when called." Why do I feel like I'm being laughed at?

"You're doing well." A second, even more familiar voice intoned. "Sable."

Dread stole the very breath from her lungs. Saïx!

Light flashed. "Who's that!?" Sora demanded, Keyblade in hand.

"Where does your confidence come from?" The first voice, Xemnas, queried, "Brave one chosen by the Keyblade?"

"Overconfidence in your real ability-" Saïx observed. "-will be your undoing."

The sound of snapping fingers echoed off the stone. Darkness surged, white flashed. Dusks!

Donald and Goofy charged. At the same time, old iron groaned on their hinges as the barred doors to Hollow Bastion closed, splitting the group in two.

"We can't let them break the gates!" Leon shouted, "If they do they'll get into the town!"

Newsflash, it's us they're after! All the same, Soul Eater condensed. Ready and eager for conflict.

"You're just a conceited little boy." Xemnas reprimanded as the Dusks massed and surged. "Who needs to be taught a lesson."

Then all thought took a back seat as reflex and instinct kicked in.

Elastic forms, bend, twist, coil, spring

Scythe-claws stretched, murderous intent

Pivot away, a ballet's grace

Whip cracks, supple spear pierce

One…two…three…four

A thoughtful murmur. "Not Bad…"

Shifting specters, creeping shoes

A sword, a shield, bat-wings, soar, dive

Light condense, a mighty sweep

A roar, a storm lion assaults.

A loud cheer. "Come on kid, you can do it!"

A reed flute sounds, a challenge sent

A Duel, a match, quickest reflex prevails

One heartbeat…two…a gray limb tics

Gleaming key descends, smites, wins

A teasing rebuke. "Come on, cheer him on like you mean it."

Trine fighters defend, guard, protect

A bladed key, aerial blows dealt

A blood-edged wing and violet whip

A concussion blade, a lions roar

One by one enemies fall,

Until no more challenge

And then the fight was over. Sable staggered, still caught in the throes of the adrenaline. That was…strange. She shook her head, bringing conscious thought back to the forefront of her mind. Was that…a fighter's trance?

"Here Sable, catch."

Violet eyes blinked as her hand shot out reflexively, catching the item Sora had tossed. Puzzled, she opened her hand to find a red sphere resting on her palm. Then it melted, like the Blizzard Orb had done, only instead of an intense chill a great heat welled up, almost sending her into the reels of sudden vertigo.

A smirk ghosted across her face. Fire magic, nice.

Cast iron hinges groaned, and the three humans rejoined with Donald and Goofy.

"The Keyblade…a truly magnificent weapon." Xemnas's smooth baritone resounded over the stone walls of the Bailey. "Were it only in more…capable hands…"

Mocking, jeering laughter sounded in the wake of the comment.

Cerulean eyes glared around. "Show yourself!" Though he managed to speak without his voice hitching, he was panting heavily. Worn out by the long fight, his ribcage expanded widely with each breath. Sable, while outwardly appearing only mildly winded, was only marginally better herself.

I suppose he's still out of shape. Sable mused. My only advantage here is that I have better breath control…

A cold, phantom breez- an indicator of manifesting Darkness-ghosted across the back of her neck. Her gaze drifted up, landing on a high ledge above them. Not a moment too soon.

Shadows danced, rising up in the familiar form of a Dark Corridor. As it dispersed a cloak-clad silhouette appeared.

Xemnas…

The Organization founder stared down at them impassively, face and eyes hidden by the shadow of his hood. Brown spikes jerked back as Sora noticed the man. Cerulean eyes glared up at him with a blend of angry defiance and determination. Xemnas met his gaze evenly-Does he seem…curious? Sable wondered-before raising his arms to the sky.

More shadows danced, and Sora gave a start. Sable could hear the faint rustle of the black leather. Dark clad figures stood hauntingly, jeeringly, on the ledge overhead.

"Organization Thirteen!" Goofy yelled.

There's only six. Sable studied each one intently, a chill of unease forming behind her sternum. So Axel's already left-what?

A detached sense of vertigo almost made her sway as her vision blurred-

Not my vision…just their…silhouettes?

Vaporous black and white wisps spiraled lazily on a non-existent breeze.

Violet eyes blinked as Sable looked again. What? The faint wisps of color spiraled lazily around Xemnas' form. Not just his… Sharp eyes scrutinized the other black-clad figures. Spastic shades of violet accented sharply with pinkish streaks…spiraling gray…shifting yellow-gray, flowing blue, and a…shifting sand-like blend of raw sienna…wait…are those aura's?

"Good!" Sable almost started at Sora's abrupt declaration. "Now we can settle this!"

Settle?! He can't mean-! "Sora, don't!" The elder teen hissed sharply. "We aren't strong enough yet!" I can't fight Saïx again, it's too soon!

Sora either didn't hear her, or had chosen to ignore her.

"What a shame…" Xemnas lamented with an almost melancholy sigh, "And here I thought we could be friends."

Melodramatic much?

The other members laughed at the poor joke. Then once more the shadows danced, and they vanished one-by-one.

"Stop!" Donald darted down the path, staff clenched tightly in his hand. Reflexively, the others followed his lead.

We can't fight them. Sable lagged slightly, falling behind the others. At least…not yet.

A sudden swirl of icy wind joined with dancing shadows. Wisps of violet spasmed erratically as the cloaked figure appeared, obstructing the path ahead.

Webbed feet slid briefly across cobblestone, black eyes darting from the above ledge to the cloaked man before them, startled. Of course, Donald being Donald, he recovered quickly. "What's the big idea!?"

Gloved hands were held, palms out in appeasement. "Oopsy-daisy!" Laughter laced the words and the shifting violet aura whirled mischievously, accented with darting pink highlights.

Sora opened his mouth to yell-

Stopped as a firm hand clasped his shoulder. "Don't!" Sable warned. "It'll only encourage him further. Isn't that right-" She gazed at the cloaked man. "-Xigbar?"

Violet spluttered with slight surprise, pink vanishing all together, before a good natured chuckle sounded. "That is absolutely correct." Shifting forward, he studied Sable curiously. "You know…Superior was right about you."

A blink. O…kay… "How so?"

Another laugh. "Superior said you were someone to be cautious of. Then number seven came back black and blue and empty-handed after his attempted apprehending of you." Sable could almost hear the grin in his voice as he added: "Might I add that he had a very nice bruise, right here." He motioned towards his jaw line. "Real classy."

A snort. Yeah, he almost killed me and Vivi for that 'classy bruise'.

"Do you know him?" Sora glanced up at her. Sable shook her head and made to respond-

"As if! Never met her before in my life." Xigbar interrupted. "But she seems to know all 'bout us." He motioned encouragingly. "Go ahead, tell 'im."

A sigh. "The Organization's number two: Xigbar the Freeshooter. His preferred weapon of choice are twin arrowguns, jointly called Sharpshooter, which are the source of his title."

Silence followed. Then-

"Enough talking!" Donald yelled.

Sora, snapping from whatever hesitation that had calmed him, brandished his weapon menacingly, "Get out of the way!"

Violet whirled, darkening to a near black. Dark pink streaks flashing almost as if in warning.

A melodramatic sigh. "No can do." The dark hood shook back-and-forth as the Nobody folded his arms across his chest.

"Then we're gonna make you move!" Donald threatened.

A nonchalant hum. "See, that would work- if I were just any old dude." A moment's pause, aura wisps welling up ,pink streaks flashing dangerously. "'Cept I'm not. I'm with the Organization. Nothing 'any old' about me."

"Tough talk for someone who stood on the sidelines while his Nobody flunkeys did the fighting!"

I didn't know Sora actually knew how to sneer… and there were no Sniper Nobodies in that fight, just Dusks, Creepers, and Samurai. So, technically, Xigbar wasn't involved even indirectly, he was just an observer.

"Oh dear." Hands planted on hips, Xigbar shifted forward. "I think you got the wrong impression." A scolding finger waggled at the younger teenager.

"You gonna cry?"

A snort. "As if! Why don't I remind you how tough the crowd you're dealing with really is?"

Sora faltered, uncertain. "Remind me?" Cerulean eyes grew puzzled, then became serious once more as he fired a fierce glare at Xigbar. The Nobody merely laughed again, aura wisps whirling merrily.

"That's right! He used to give me that same exact look!"

Really? Sable shot the Freeshooter a bland look as Sora blinked in confusion.

"I guess you think you can psych me out by saying really random stuff!" the brunette accused.

"Who taught you how to use that Keyblade?" Xigbar asked out-of-the-blue. He clucked his tongue, pointing a scolding finger in their direction. "You need to practice your moves, boy. Or else he disappeared for nothing."

Caught off guard by the unexpected question, Sora lost his offensive stance. "Huh?"

This time Xigbar actually sighed with mild exasperation. "Let me give you some good advice. You're not maximizing the powers of the Keyblade."

Huh?

"What's that supposed to mean?" Sora demanded eyes fierce once more.

"Gee…" A thoughtful hand stroked his shadowed chin. "I just don't know." Arms spread invitingly, tauntingly.

Light flashed, Xigbar yelped, quickly retracting his outstretched arms. "Hey!" A sharp jolt of pink, violet paling to an astonished lilac. A second flash and Xigbar cringed away, gripping his opposing shoulder where the light had clipped it. "What the-?!" Knees bent, and the Nobody nimbly leapt back, away from a third claymore.

Sable snickered quietly at his misfortune as Xigbar gave a friendly, albeit somewhat rushed, wave. "Be a good boy now!"

"Wait!" Donald lunged, but Xigbar was already gone. "Nuts." The grumble was partially muffled by the cobblestones, "He got away."

"That was weird." Cerulean eyes stared at the vacant spot with bewilderment. "Who gave him the same look?" He glanced up, "Sable, do you know?"

A blink, then Sable sighed. "Do you remember what I told you about how the Organization had lost members?"

A nod. "Yeah, five died and two-oh! So I remind him of one who left?"

"Correct." Sable nodded. "The member in question was called Roxas the Key of Destiny."

Silence fell as the trio took in the information. Then Goofy spoke up.

"Oh, I get it! This…Roxas, must've been Sora's Nobody!"

"What?" The brunette yelped, eyes wide.

"Why do you say that?" Donald demanded, alarmed.

"Well, Sable told us that Organization Thirteen went by anagrams of their old names, with an X added in." A white-gloved finger rose up illustratively. "So if ya take out the X in ROXAS and unscramble the letters you get SORA."

"But-" Sora stumbled. "-I've never lost my heart-" A pause, cerulean lit up with dawning, "Oh…"

That's right, when you willingly removed your own heart so that Kairi's could return to her body. It was likely quite an unpleasant realization for the optimistic boy. But he'll recover, snapping back like a rubber band. A fond smile ghosted across Sable's lips. And that's exactly why he's best suited for status of Keybearer.

/\/\/\

A boisterous laugh filled the air. "Man, it sure has been a while since we all ate together like this." Ladle in hand, Cid dutifully filled each empty bowl in turn. "Sure wets the appetite."

Violet eyes examined the soup bowl skeptically. Sure, it smells good…but is it actually edible?

"What is this…?" Merlin eyed his spoon dubiously, and a tad bit warily.

I'm not sure I want to know… Sable jabbed at some of the undistinguishable lumps in her bowl with some trepidation. How can anyone willingly eat this-is that a pouch?! The oblivious Captain of the Guard chewed and swallowed, blissfully unaware of how Sable's skin had acquired a slightly greenish tint. Suddenly…I'm not feeling so hungry anymore…

"Organization Thirteen…" Leon murmured, absently swallowing spoonfuls of soup. "They look tough. We'd best stay on our guard."

Tough doesn't even begin to describe them. Sable repressed the apprehensive shudder that threatened to manifest. And we're going to have to fight them…and win… It had all seemed so easy in the game. But now, after her encounter with Saïx at the Struggle Match, she wasn't so sure they could win.

"Those guys control all the Nobodies, right?" Sable winced as a fine spray of the soup coated her face. Yuffie continued on obliviously. "What are they planning?"

A napkin was helpfully offered. "Thank you Aerith," Wiping the offending liquid from her face Sable almost missed the way brown spikes seemingly wilted. Almost. "Sora-" Lowering the napkin she glanced over, concerned. "-are you alright?" No response. Violet grew thoughtful. I bet I know what's bothering him. "You're thinking about what Xigbar said?" A distracted nod…he's really troubled.

"I agree we should proceed with caution."

Surprised, Sable glanced down at Jiminy Cricket. I didn't notice him come out…

The chronicler put down his cut of celery stick, looking solemn. "I have a feeling that this journey will be even harder than the last one."

At least I'm not the only one worrying about that…

"I got it!" Everyone jumped at Sora's yell. "He asked me who taught me to use the Keyblade. He must have been talking about Riku!"

Silence. Everyone stared at the teenager.

O…kay… Sable eyed the boy somewhat warily, that was random-

"Okay…" Jiminy hummed, staring up at the boy. "I can see how you could come to that conclusion."

Glad one of us does…

"But when he said 'disappeared', what did he…" Sora continued, voice softening, then his head snapped up and frantic cerulean met surprised violet "Sable, did something happen to Riku?"

Sable blinked. What makes you think I know? A shrug. "Um…In regards to 'disappeared', I think he was referring to Roxas." Sora sagged a little in relief. "But Riku's been out there since you were put to sleep in those capsules, so I suspect that him not having encountered the Organization at some point is pretty unlikely."

Anxiety entered Sora's eyes once more.

"Go." Sora gave a start, then looked at Leon questioningly. "Search for him."

"But…" Sora bit his lip, indecision overcoming anxiety. "…what about the Heartless?"

Sable snorted softly, a fond smile ghosting across her lips. Even when he desperately wants to find his friends, he can't ignore people in trouble.

A dismissing hand waved off Sora's concerns. "We can handle them, even if we are a bit disorganized." Leon glanced away. "Right, Cid?"

Surprised, the pilot only grunted in acknowledgment.

A slow, grateful smile worked its way across Sora's face. "We'll definitely come back soon." He promised.

Leon chuckled, then held out a hand. "Here, and take this too."

"What's this?" Puzzled, Sora examined a small card. "Hollow Bastion Restoration Committee-"

"-Honorary Member!" Goofy laughed, looking over his own card.

"If you show it to the shop keepers," Leon informed, "you'll get a slight discount."

A bright grin. "How economical-" Light flashed, Sable flinched away and Sora yelped. "Hey! Come back! My discount!"

Violet eyes blinked incredulously. Well that's one of the odder things I've seen thus far…

"Sora!" Feathered fingers grasped at the teenager-

-missed as the teenager dived out the open window.

What a kid. Sable snickered, leaning towards the window for a better view-

Ow… Bleary-eyed, Sable tried to blink away the sudden flash-induced stars. Someone shifted next to her.

"What is it?" Leon queried, bemused by the sudden squawks of astonishment.

"A keyhole!" Sora yelped.

"Gawrsh…" Goofy stared up at the suspended, still glowing, card, "ya think…?"

Sora straightened, Keyblade extended.

Oh no, not this time. Thick sleeves were just barely in time to block the following flash.

"Oh…now I get it." Sora breathed, "That must be the Gate Yen Sid talked about."

Obviously, bare fingers pinched the bridge of her nose, holding back a looming headache, Ow…sunglasses would be a really good idea.

"Sorry to run Leon." Sora apologized, looking at the older man. "But other worlds are calling."

An understanding nod. "Be careful out there."

A grin. "See you soon!" Waving, Sora turned down the path, Donald and Goofy at his heels.

Slipping out the window, Sable followed the trio. Our journey continues… An almost fanged smirk. Should be fun.

/\

And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage and warn each other, especially now that the day of his coming back again is drawing near.

~Hebrews 10:25

/\/\/\

Reviews are always appreciated. They let me know my story is not simply collecting virtual dust. And by reviews I mean something a bit more than 'awesome story' or the like. Tell me what you enjoyed, and even what you did not (though please refrain from going on a tangent).