HotXbun: So. You're probably confused as to why there is a new chapter, since this story was marked as completed.

I originally ended this story earlier than I wanted to because the full story of Dark Road was supposed to come out is September.

However, that has now been pushed to sometime in Winter, so I decided to continue with this story.

I'm also beginning to post this story on AO3 as well, so you can read it there if you prefer using that site. The link to my profile is in my bio.

Anyway, on with the story!

Chapter 34 A Year Later

Xehanort's POV

I was in the classroom.

"The results are in", Master Odin revealed. "And once again, Eraqus has the highest marks!"

Upon hearing this, all of my classmates and I (minus Eraqus) moaned in annoyance.

"Alright", Eraqus exclaimed happily before he began to gloat. "You guys better start putting in some extra studying time if you wanna beat me!"

"Now now Eraqus", Master Odin started. "Don't be like that. All of you did very well."

"Yeah", Eraqus started. "But I got the highest marks!"

"It is not a competition Eraqus", Master Odin pointed out.

"Then why did you mention that my marks were the highest out of everybody", Eraqus asked.

"To show how hard work and dedication can pay off", Master Odin revealed. "Just about a year ago, you usually received the lowest marks out of the class."

"Yeah", Bragi agreed. "And to add to that. You're not always late to class anymore."

"It's actually the opposite", Hermod pointed out. "Now, you're usually the first one to class."

"Yeah", Vor started. "And many times you're here early. Long before class is even supposed to start."

"I told you, didn't I", Eraqus started. "A year ago at the upperclassmen's Mark of Mastery ceremony. I said that I would start taking my lessons more seriously."

"Well", Master Odin started. "I am very glad that you actually went through with what you set out to due Eraqus. Keep this up, and I have no doubt that you will reach the title of Keyblade Master."

"You really think so Master Odin", Eraqus asked hopefully.

"I do", Master Odin replied. "As for the rest of you, follow in Eraqus' example, and you all will also reach the title of Keyblade Master someday."

…

I put flowers on top of a grave.

Urd's grave.

"Hey Urd", I greeted. "Long time so see."

I knew that I was just talking to a stone. Urd's body hadn't even been buried there.

But even so…taking to it brought me comfort.

"Today is a special anniversary", I revealed. "Today is the one year anniversary of when I first arrived here. However, it also means that…it's nearly been a year since you left us."

After saying this, I was now sad.

"A lot has changed since then", I started. "Eraqus has changed the most. He no longer slacks of, and he's doing it for you."