Disclaimer: I do not own Kingdom Hearts (although that would be pretty cool!).


Xemnas was not happy. He scowled at his desk as he listened to Marluxia and Saïx deliver their report on what happened with the rebel members. Xigbar was also present.

"You're saying Demyx is the one who knocked you from the fight?" Saïx scoffed.

"Correct. I lost track of him while the four other members ran away. Kind of a lot going on," Marluxia shot back.

Xemnas put up a hand to stop the bickering. "No one is questioning your efforts. If you hadn't slowed them down, Saïx wouldn't have made it to assist you."

"Saïx can corroborate, but I saw Luxord fade away into nothingness. He certainly did not escape with the others," Marluxia added.

The Luna Diviner nodded. "His final gamble was a failure."

"Yes indeed. How ironic." Xemnas paused, letting silence fall over the room. "Thank you for your report. You are dismissed," The Superior curtly told Marluxia. The pink-haired Nobody nodded and left Xemnas' office, leaving Saïx, Xemnas, and the silent Xigbar in the room.

"Do you believe him?" Saïx asked.

"It's hard to say. Vexen turned off all of the security cameras. It is clear that he was hit with a water blast, but that doesn't exonerate him," Xemnas declared.

"He was the member we most expected to rebel, though. I'm surprised that he stayed," the blue-haired Nobody continued.

"Or maybe he's just playing the long game," Xigbar offered. "I guess we'll never really know."

"Were you able to track them?" Saïx asked Xigbar.

"Nope. They knew what they were doing. They left behind all of their watches, so we can't track them."

"Surely Vexen had other means," Xemnas replied.

"You may be right. But Vexen's lab is sealed shut. Sure, you can teleport into it, but he must have triggered some sort of defense system. All sorts of steel barriers and locks cover everything of importance. Nothing is accessible."

"Most unfortunate," Xemnas commented.

"Of course, we might have an idea of where they were heading if the Lunatic over here had been a little softer on Luxord," Xigbar pointed out.

"I did what was necessary to win," Saïx fired back. "And besides, I didn't see you helping out."

"As if. My style is a bit more discreet. And besides, we had to make sure you weren't blundering your way towards a second failure. Although one could argue that's exactly what you did."

"Enough! The traitors escaping was unfortunate, but it may not affect us as much as we think. The missions should continue. We are still very close to our goal and they are not strong enough to stop us," Xemnas explained.

"Xigbar and Marluxia can continue overseeing construction of their bases. But the Neverland and Deep Jungle bases will need new members. I could send Lexaeus and Xaldin," Saïx offered.

"That would make the most sense. It would leave us lesser defended here at the Castle, but I think we can manage," Xemnas finished.

"Excellent. I'll go tell them now then." Saïx rose and left the office.

Xigbar watched Saïx leave before turning his attention back to The Superior. "So, I imagine things are messed up with Luxord gone," Xigbar began.

"Only the backup plan. Kingdom Hearts is within reach even if we can no longer form the Thirteen Darknesses."

"If you say so. Don't underestimate Vexen and the others."

"I don't think we will see them for quite some time. As soon as Kingdom Hearts is ours, we can hunt them down."

"I don't know. I have a feeling they're going to come back and try to stop us."

"That would be a foolish endeavor," Xemnas boomed.

"Maybe. But as their hearts grow back, they might be swayed to make riskier decisions. What's that saying the old coot said? May your heart be your guiding key."

Xemnas scowled. "If those traitors come back, I'll end them myself with my Ethereal Blades."

Xigbar grinned. "Good to know."


Xaldin and Lexaeus sat in an unusually quiet Gray Room. Saïx had summoned them there and explained their new missions. Xaldin was assigned to the Deep Jungle and Lexaeus would be heading to Neverland. Saïx then left the pair to their devices, ostensibly so Lexaeus could brief Xaldin on what the Deep Jungle was like (Saïx knew he didn't need to brief Lexaeus on Neverland as The Silent Hero had picked each world himself). However, the missions were far from the minds of these elder members of the Organization.

"You know, I've been thinking. Most of the rebel members were ones who went on different missions. Do you think there's something to that or is it just a coincidence?" Xaldin mused.

"Not sure. Obviously Demyx didn't go on an extended mission."

"No, but I don't think anyone ever felt that Demyx was fully loyal to the cause," Xaldin rationalized. Lexaeus nodded, but said nothing. "Do you think they'll return?"

Lexaeus closed his eyes. "How would I know?" he replied in a tense tone.

Xaldin chuckled. "I suppose you wouldn't. But since you are such good friends with Zexion, I thought you might have some insight."

"Zexion felt that my operation was unnecessary since our hearts are growing back. I disagree. Unfortunately, his position directly contradicts the Organization. Hopefully he'll change his mind and that's that." It wasn't really simple as that, of course. Lexaeus was indeed hurt that Zexion sided against him, but he understood Zexion's position and reasoning. But Lexaeus was dedicated to the idea of helping all Nobodies return to their human forms. As a military man, he was willing to accept some casualties in pursuit of his goal, but also wanted to not leave any of his men behind if possible. He was not heartless (in the metaphysical sense) and felt that he limited the amount of casualties by picking worlds with smaller populations like the Deep Jungle and Neverland. Yet, Lexaeus felt a nagging feeling that his devotion to saving the lesser Nobodies was not matched by Saïx and Xemnas.

"Very well then. I suppose I don't really care. We're so close to the goal now that nothing else seems to matter. Can you believe it's been seven years?" Xaldin asked.

Lexaeus grunted. "On days like today, it certainly feels like it."


Naminé and Roxas scampered away from Where Nothing Gathers as soon as the rebel members fled. Both were horrified and confused by the events. The pair retreated back to Roxas' room to discuss what happened.

"So the Organization is split apart?" Roxas asked.

"Certainly not a very organized organization," Naminé agreed. "Who knows if they'll be back?"

"Well, at least I won't have to take any more of Vexen's math tests."

Naminé laughed, thinking Roxas was joking, but quickly realized that he was dead serious. "I suppose that's true!"

Inevitably, the conversation turned to the pressing topic. "Do you think they were right to leave?" Roxas asked.

She sighed. "I don't know. I don't really want to see so many lose their lives so the Organization can get Kingdom Hearts, but I also want to see all of the lesser Nobodies restored. I think I was too scared to leave. I don't have a weapon to defend myself."

Roxas immediately puffed up. "I'll always protect you, Naminé." Ever since losing Xion, Roxas found himself more comfortable around Naminé and felt a stronger desire to be around her. Perhaps feeling guilty over not being able to save Xion, he was sincere in his commitment to protect Naminé.

Naminé's face flushed a tad, pleased with his statement. "Thank you, Roxas."

"I get what you're saying," Roxas continued. "You know, though, we don't have to stay here. Just because we're kids doesn't mean we have no say."

"You're right. But it gets harder to speak up when the adults are attacking each other."

"Yeah," he admitted. "I wish we could go back to the simple days. Just fighting Heartless at the Coliseum."

"Oh Roxas! The Coliseum! Do you have a final match? Or is the tournament even still happening?"

"Crap, you're right! We should go right now to check it out!" Roxas exclaimed as he scrambled off his bed.

Naminé smiled and shook her head. "Don't you think we should check in with someone first? Maybe Lexaeus?"

"No, no! This is just what I mean! We can go without any permission," he enthusiastically announced.

She giggled. "Alright then. Lead the way!"

Roxas opened up a Portal of Darkness and the pair headed in, coming out at the Olympus Coliseum.

There were no throngs of people around the Coliseum, which told Roxas that there must not be a major event today. The pair barely made it into the vestibule before Phil spotted them.

"Roxas, there you are! I was worried sick about ya kiddo!" Phil exclaimed.

Roxas scratched his head in embarrassment. "Yeah, things kinda got out of hand last time."

"Kind of? The whole tournament was nearly ruined! And is your friend okay?" the satyr asked. Roxas shook his head, but said nothing.

"She didn't make it," Naminé chimed in.

"Oh kid, I'm sorry to hear that," Phil said, his tone immediately softening. "Hades is a bad guy to get tangled up with."

"Yeah," was all Roxas said.

"I'm Naminé, by the way. We decided to drop by to see what the status of the tournament is."

"Yeesh, that was a mess, let me tell you! The other organizers and I tried to figure out what to do. That girl, Xion, should technically be in the final match against Roxas, but she was unanimously disqualified. There was then some discussion about having Zack face you, but he was understandably leery to go up against another Keyblade warrior. There was also a push to simply crown you the champion since you technically defeated Xion with the help of your friends and you guys also defeated Hades, but we couldn't get unanimous agreement on that. What ended up being decided was that a quick search for a suitable competitor would be held and if an opponent could be found, you'd face him."

"Alright, that doesn't sound too bad," the Key of Destiny replied.

"What if no one is found?" Naminé questioned.

"Then Dionysus has no problem crowning you the victor of his cup. Either way, I'll need you here in six days for either the final match or to crown you champion."

"Then I'll be there," Roxas affirmed.

"That's the sprit, kid!" Now, what do ya say we get you some training? Some barrels need busting!"

Roxas looked to Naminé and again reached back to scratch his head. "Well, um, Phil, I'm kind of here with Naminé and I wouldn't want to leave her alone and…"

Phil chortled. "Oh ho ho, say no more. I wouldn't want to infringe on my superstar's date time! Just be ready for even more training next time." Over the years, Phil had softened his stance on spending time with girls after how badly things had gone with Hercules and Meg the first time.

"I'll make sure to remind him," Naminé cheerfully interjected. She then took his arm and started moving towards the door.

Roxas got the hint and they headed out. "It's a good thing we stopped by. I really want to win this cup for Xion, you know?"

Normally, Naminé would be a tad jealous about a statement like that, but she had put her rivalry with Xion to rest after her death. Despite their battle for Roxas' attention, they had been good friends. "That's very noble of you."

As they headed away from the vestibule, a gaggle of girls spotted Roxas and grew excited. "Look, it's Roxas!" one called out, and they all started to rush towards the Keyblade warrior.

"Oh boy. I'll take the Heartless over crazy fans every day," he quipped.

"Let's get out of here," Naminé suggested.

Roxas sighed. "Don't want to be rude. Give me a minute."

"Okay," she replied with palpable disappointment in her voice.

The girls rushed Roxas and immediately started fawning over him. ("Oh you're sooo strong! We're your biggest fans! Marry me!" etc.) Some girl handed him a marker and asked him to sign some autographs, which Roxas obliged. One girl with a Roxas t-shirt had him sign her shirt while another wearing a toga had him sign her arm (The Olympus Coliseum always featured very eclectic fashions as people from all over came).

Naminé was frustrated that the girls kept trying to push past her. She held her ground as Roxas politely interacted with his fans. However, she could no longer remain out the fray when she saw a girl making her up to Roxas. The girl's hands were unusually holding the bottom of her shirt. Naminé quickly deduced what part of her body the girl was about to ask Roxas to sign and decided it was time to go. Grabbing his hand, she announced, "That's all ladies, we can't be late for our (some extra emphasis was placed on "our") date."

The girls whined and Naminé pulled Roxas away before any flashing could occur. Roxas quickly summoned a Portal of Darkness and the pair dashed in before anyone could follow them. "Thanks for that. You saved me."

She grinned. "Yes, I did. And you're going to pay me back by taking me to lunch."

Now it was Roxas' turn to grin. "Sounds good to me!"


Marluxia was in a lower room in The Castle That Never Was surrounded by a bunch of Reapers. He was in the process of training them on how to properly wield their scythe, as each Reaper possessed one. Reaper (Marluxia's new henchman) stood by Marluxia's side. "Swing right, swing left, swing down," Marluxia demonstrated.

"Crisp swings here, we need to be precise," Reaper added.

Marluxia nodded. "Exactly. I have high hopes for you. You will become the finest honor guard the Organization has ever seen."

One of the reasons that Marluxia decided to stay with the Organization was because he wanted to train the Reapers that appeared. Marluxia was definitely one of the more power-hungry members of the Organization and he relished the opportunity to finally have his own henchmen and squadron. In addition, the training gave him time to think about something other than his former partner's death.

Marluxia hadn't known Luxord particularly well before the mission to Toontopia, but he really gotten to know The Gambler of Fate well during their time together. Seeing Luxord fade away was devastating, mainly because Marluxia felt responsible. He tried to warn Luxord, but was not quick enough to save him. With Luxord dead and Larxene gone, Marluxia was lonelier than perhaps any other time in his time in the Organization.

"Ooh, an honor guard. Lexaeus will be impressed," a new voice called out. A Portal of Darkness appeared and Xigbar stepped out.

"Xigbar. To what do I owe the pleasure?"

"Just wanted to check in on you. We're friends, right?"

"Sure." Marluxia turned to Reaper. "Keep up with their training, I'll be back."

"Yes sir," Reaper replied.

Marluxia started to walk away and Xigbar followed. "What do you want? We never talk like this."

"I'm just a curious guy. Wanted to see how you were doing."

"I'm fine."

"You can say whatever you want, but you can't fool me. Personally, I'm surprised you passed your loyalty test. Although I'm not sure how accurate the results are."

"What do you mean?"

"I mean, I'm pretty sure you sat there sucking your thumb while they walked right off," The Freeshooter accused.

"That's preposterous. I did my duty," Marluxia snapped.

"You might fool the others, but not me. I have eyes and ears everywhere. And I think you couldn't trouble yourself to clip Luxord's wings."

"If that's what you think, then you should get your eye checked, old man."

"As if."

"Besides, you clearly did not do a great job of implanting loyalty to the Organization. Your own mission partner left too," Marluxia fired back testily. Xigbar didn't say anything. "What exactly happened on Lothal? Because if I had to guess, you connected to the people there the way that Luxord and I did. That's why Axel and Luxord left. But you and I are still here, aren't we? We both stayed with the Organization despite having potential misgivings about what's going on."

"Don't speak for me."

"Don't question my loyalty again," Marluxia finished, squinting his eyes at Xigbar. He turned on his heels and headed back towards Reaper and the others.

Xigbar turned and walked away. He reached into his coat pocket and pulled out the starbird keychain that Sabine gave him. "You don't know the half of it," he mumbled to himself.


Hey there everybody! Sorry for the delay between Chapters 40 and 41 here. Thanks to all of you who read/review/favorite/follow this story! And for you long time readers, I appreciate your commitment to this story!

See ya real soon,

The Mustachioed Academic