Chapter Eight Investigation and Confrontation

The concept of taming the Darkness of oneself possesses many challenges physically, spiritually, and mentally. Riku recalls his experiences with dealing with Darkness. His heart now dances with it, while struggling to rid the Darkness and keep the light within. Luckily, King Mickey found him and show him that light and darkness must coexist, rather than one solely existing by itself. Despite this lesson, Riku still struggles with the Darkness, but has found a few ways to tame it. He wears a blindfold over his eyes, and only removes when he deems an absolute necessity. When he releases the blindfold, he takes a new form, similar to an old adversary of the past.

Currently Riku was outside the home where Maka, Soul, and their witch cat Blair lived together before Maka and Soul joined the Organization. Attentively, he heard the sound of glass breaking and two teens rumbling, inside the house. With a sigh, he summoned his weapon and prepared for battle.

Near the entrance was a frog, croaking suspiciously at Riku's entrance, quickly hopping away. The door was already opened, with a purple cat running out the door. Riku reached down to pet the cat, but it ran after the frog.

"Maybe next time…" Riku sighed, "Time for some investigating."

Upon entering inside the unlocked house, Riku could sense two teen boys fighting, one being controlled by darkness, little by little getting consumed by it and another mixed with light and dark. Riku quickly made his way to where the two were fighting.

"Kid, snap out of it!" the spiky blue hair teen yelled," Big Wave!"

Sparks came from the blue teen's hands as he punched Kid's stomach, causing him to hunch over in pain. The pain failed to stop Kid from countering with an axe kick, landing on the blue haired teen's neck. The teen landed face first into the house, causing the house to shake. As Kid went for another drop kick, the teen rolled out last second and dodged. The teen jumped back up on his feet with his dukes still up. Kid's form was groggy with a strange aura surrounding him.

"Black… Star... "Kid struggled to speak, "End me, this magic is too strong!"

"Like hell I'll do something so dumb!" Black Star yelled back," We'll figure a way to get that aura off of you, I'll just use another Big Wave, and that'll be the end of that! Trust me Kid!"

Despite Kid's plea, it seemed that Black Star valued him too much to "end". With a deep sigh, Riku decided now was the best time to intervene. Riku walked between the two skilled teens.

"Who're you? "Black Star questioned, "Can't you see I'm trying to save a friend?"

"R-Riku? Aren't you supposed to be investigating the Witches' or at Castle Oblivion?!" Kid said confused, "Where were you when we got ambushed?"

"Don't worry Kid, dealing with Darkness is hard at first," Riku teleported behind him,"But embracing it is the first step to living with it. For now, I'll just take your darkness away until you're ready."

Riku placed a hand on Kid's shoulder. Within moments the strange aura that surrounded Kid had transferred over to Riku. Kid fell over unconscious, with Black Star dashing in to stop his fall.

"K-Kid? You alright?!" Black Star turned to Riku,"What did you do?"

"I just temporarily absorbed the Darkness within him. "Riku stated,"I suggest letting him rest and taking him to Lord Death. I still have lots of work to take care of."

"Wha?" Black Star looked confused,"How do you know who Death is? Aren't you with the Organization?"

"No…" Riku began to explain,"I'm one of the good guys. I'm working with Mickey and Lord Death alongside many other people in order to reawaken Sora and take down the Witch Association."

Riku wandered into Maka's room while bumping into the walls and furniture around it. Being blindfolded and walking around isn't easy. Black Star studied Riku's movements.

"Are you always this clumsy?" He disappointedly sighed, "How can you fight like that if you bump into everything in sight?"

"..." Riku grunted, feeling out his surroundings very slowly.

Black Star continued to stare at Riku, now at a close distance. He noticed the weapon in Riku's dark gloves.

"An interesting weapon, is it a she or he?" Black Star asked, placing Kid on a destroyed sofa gently.

Riku shrugged, not sure if weapons had genders to begin with.

"Alright, what's her/his name?" Black Star asked again. Slightly irritated.

"... I don't remember." Riku shrugged.

"So Riku, any ideas on the Witch Association or where the Organization is?" Black Star asked another question. More irritated.

"No clue." Riku shrugged once more. "That's why I'm here. To find some clues."

"Whatever. So, like, is there anything worth looking at?" Black Star asked, "Maybe like Blair's clothes to find out her sizes? Or maybe Maka's secret journal?"

Somehow, Riku ignored Black Star, and intently began listening to the surroundings. He could clearly hear the sound of someone muttering angrily.

"So, are you going to leave anytime soon?" Black Star grumbled.

Riku shrugged as if it was routine.

"ARGH I'VE HAD IT!" Black Star pulled his hair angrily,"IS THE ONLY THING YOU CAN DO IS SHRUG?! YOU'RE WORSE THAN THAT JERK EXCALIBUR! YOU EVER HEARD OF-."

Riku placed a hand over Black Star's face, "Sh! I hear something outside."

Black Star ceased talking and looked at their surroundings. The living room may had been a mess with his earlier rumble, but it became messier as a wall crumbled to bits. The open wall revealed what was happening in the outside world. The two saw a purple cat happily purring with a green frog in its' mouth.

"Blair? The hell are you doing with the toad?" Black Star looked confused.

"I found a frog trying to be sneaky like a cat nyaa~." The purple cat purred, with the amphibian a defeated muttering "I'm a frog ribbit~".

"Wait," Riku walked closer," The reports said this frog is from the Witch Association. She may have important information of the whereabouts of the Witches' hideout." he felt the darkness hunger to be let free,"We'll have to ask her some questions."

The defeated frog shivered as she sensed the darkness around Riku's body. I just need to hold out until the Lady Medusa arrive!

"Looks like we got a lucky break!" Black Star smiled darkly while cracking his knuckles.

After an hour of interrogating Eruka, they still made no progress. Any questions asked was answered with another question, thus she still would not cooperate. Black Star left to take Kid back to the academy for caution, promising Riku he would return later to help interrogate some more.

Blair left as well, trying to find any dirt on the Witch Association; since she also wanted Maka and Soul back quickly as possible.

Riku was now alone with Eruka, he was near his peak; the darkness was urging him to let loose and annihilate her where she was shackled.

Destroy her… let the darkness overflow, its' powers may benefit you…

No. I remember what King Mickey taught, there's no way I'll let the darkness overtake me. Just you wait… I'll embrace you in my own way, without being consumed either!

"Why are you being so difficult?" Riku impatiently asked," Can't you understand I'm trying to save my friend?"

"Bleh. Don't you know friendships are for the weak," Eruka looked at the ground," The weak should fear the strong-ribbit. I'm not as strong as Lady Medusa, but I know she'll save me, I'm too important for her to ignore."

"If she's so strong, why would she protect you?" Riku asked," Who is Medusa?"

"Don't you know, Medusa is one of the strongest witches' around." Eruka began to speak," A-anyone who gets in her way will get eliminated instead. She knows hows to keep people in check. It's' who she is."

"Is that all you can say about her?" Riku appeared disappointed. "Reminds me of Maleficent."

"There's a bit more," Eruka added," She only has power over me because of some "snakes" are been inside me and because she's stronger. If I keep helping her, like earlier with reviving Kishin Asura, she'll take the snakes out of me..." Her eyes watered with hope, "And then I'll be free, and then I'll be able to get a boyfriend-ribbit."

"I doubt that." Riku mutters.

"Destroy her now! There's no point in letting her breathe!"

"No! I won't do that, not until its' my last option… Maybe I can bargain with her, find a way to her to cooperate."

"Eruka, right?"

She nodded.

"What if I could help you take care of Medusa, it sounds like she's more of a threat to you, than I am." Riku bargained,"If I help you defeat Medusa,then you help me eliminate the Witch Association; how does that sound!"

A wicked smile creeped upon her face, only for her expression to quickly change into pain, as her body winced with something striking her from the inside.

"AHHH! I'm sorry Lady Medusa!" Eruka screeched in agony.

"What's wrong?!" Riku got closer, trying to find the cause of her pain.

Eruka quickly fell unconscious, and unable to move; the pain was too much. Within the shadows, a woman appeared before Riku. She wore a black hoodie, letting her dark blonde hair tied in front of her. However, her form was of a child. Instantly, the presence immediately thickened, and Riku summoned his weapon, ready for a fight. The form

"How dare you even think of defying me. Eruka, I thought you were smarter than that." The woman spoke, "You did, however, lead me directly to a Keyblade Warrior who could be quite useful."

Riku sensed the venomous intent of the woman. Her eyes leered at Eruka like a snake observing its' prey before strangling the life out of it. He noticed dark arrows all around the area. Some large, some small, but all facing his direction. With the new threat in front of him, the darkness inside of him began to flutter about, clogging Riku's mind with madness. Riku took a knee; the darkness would soon consume him. The child merely smiled.

What is she doing to me?! I need to keep my guard up.

"So, you're this Medusa person that everyone keeps talking about?" Riku questioned, remaining monotone. "I thought you'd be taller."

The woman merely chuckled and examined Riku's state, only a few feet away. It appeared that she found something she was looking for.

"Indeed, I am Medusa Gorgon; a witch who enjoys experimentation and observation." She introduced herself, summoning a large snake, " It appears that you have darkness and light within your heart; similar to my child's case."

"Your child?" Riku raised an eyebrow.

"Yes, Crona Gorgon is his name." Medusa smiled devilishly," He has Ragnarok, black blood, and a newly acquired heart; filled with plenty of darkness and bits of light. He reminds me of you actually."

"We haven't met before, have we?" Riku felt the darkness rise even more. "I think I would remember someone as creepy as you."

"You certainly have a way with words." Medusa chuckled, "No, this is our first time meeting actually; but with all of scouts watching you from a distance, it's no surprise we would meet eventually." Medusa flicked her wrist, causing the unconscious Erika to float." If you don't mind, I have to get my pet back and train her on obedience."

Riku grabbed Eruka, causing Medusa to shift her hand gestures.

"Actually, I do mind." Riku stated," She has information about the witch association, I need that information to destroy the witch base. I doubt you would help at any case."

Medusa flicked her hand once more, but Eruka stayed still with Riku holding her arm firmly. Medusa was no longer smiling.

"Oh, come now Riku." She sighed in a disappointed manner." Deep down we both know she has her limited uses. Once she lays false information making you go in a wild goose chase, ambushed, or anything else; she'll escape as soon as possible. It's in her pathetic and sniveling nature to try to be safe," Medusa paused and revealed a demonic smile,"Too bad I'll always make sure she'll be in constant danger as my pawn."

Hearing Medusa's evil intent, Riku's mind stopped focusing on keeping the darkness at bay, and used all his attention towards Medusa.

"I need to defeat the Witch Association under Mickey's orders… and then defeat the Organization for Sora's safety … and then completely control the darkness my sake..." Riku listed his priorities mentally, "… for now I need to defeat Medusa!"

This time, the darkness began to overflow reveal itself in front of Medusa as Riku stood back up and took his battle stance towards her.

"Medusa, right now I'm trying to save my friend," Riku informed," Get in my way and I'll eliminate you. Do you understand?"

"Oh, spare me the empty threats," Medusa yawned," Threats are only taken seriously if the one saying it is strong. Are you saying you're stronger than me?"

"Yes. I'll prove it right now!" Riku declared. "It won't be that hard."

"Oh well, you would have been an interesting subject." Medusa pouted as she began summoning snakes from her hand. "Let's see if you are a man of your word."

Riku vs Medusa

Medusa began chanting while snakes simultaneously appeared and lunged towards Riku. He charged with his weapon in hand, dodging the incoming snakes left and right. Upon bigger snakes lashing from the dark vectors to attack, Riku quickly slashed at anything getting too close.

Upon increasing his pace and evasion, Riku had his weapon in range to Medusa's body. With a diagonal slash, Riku barely cut Medusa's cheek before she leaped away, countering with a snake on a dark vector towards Riku's way.

Riku turned his body, with the snake barely missing contact onto his face.

"You really know how to keep a woman on her toes!" Medusa laughed, "Let's see what else a Keyblade wielder can do!"

With a flick of her wrist, more vectors began surrounding Riku, forming a circle. The arrows themselves accelerated towards Riku, forcing him jump towards all for safety.

Running parallel to the ground, Riku charged closer to Medusa, blasting a Fira point-blank at Medusa's stomach.

Medusa's stomach took the impact, with Medusa showing no reaction, but kept with a smirk. Riku charged low and struck her stomach, only for Medusa to catch it with one hand.

"Oh come on Riku," Medusa devilishly cackled, "Don't be such a spoiled sport. If you have to defend your weak friends, you'll need power, right?"

"What's wrong with wanting to protect something that's important?" Riku trying to push his weapon into her stomach.

"Poor poor Riku," Medusa sighed, "Don't you realize you're not strong enough? Perhaps a little black blood can help you."

Medusa grabbed Riku's neck and threw him into the sky. Mercilessly, Medusa summoned vector arrows from behind Riku's back, letting it pierce through him.

"NGH!" Riku grunted in pain. "I'm not done yet!"

Riku spun his body in a rapid motion, like a sideways top in the air— his weapon spinning at fast resolution. In a blink of an eye, Riku sliced anymore vectors, and landed safely on the ground on his feet, in front of Medusa. The dark aura continuously surrounded Riku's body.

After another attempt of slashing her down, Medusa leaped back on more for safety.

"Not this time!" Riku gritted his teeth, "Take this!"

The darkness within Riku poured outside his power, empowering himself. With a single spin, the air around Riku gave chase to Medusa, catching her, and slamming her into the floor. So, show precaution, Riku summoned a grand voltage of lighting, amplified by darkness, striking Medusa with his fury.

She was now on the floor, burnt here and there. Her facial expression showed no pain, but of satisfaction. The grin on her face did not match her body.

"Not bad." Medusa smirked, "For a Keyblade wielder."

"Don't get in my way…" Riku warned, "Final warning."

Medusa sluggishly sat against the wall, with a small gentle smile on her face.

Battle End

"I'm impressed, but only slightly." Medusa congratulated, "The offer for black blood is still available if you want. Free of charge, whenever you want it."

"No thanks." Riku declined, releasing the darkened tension from his body, "I'm content dealing with the darkness alone thank you."

Medusa tossed a bottle labeled Black Blood.

"I think we had a good chat. Wouldn't you say Riku?" Medusa smirked, "Castle Oblivion currently remains restored. I suggest you go back and take care of that place for good; some Organization members and witches have been stationed there. Just a heads up; they have that Namine girl there. Enjoy the rest of your evening."

"You expect me to believe you?" Riku remain on guard.

"Your choice. The witches have a special plan involved with Organization." Medusa shrugged, "I got what I came for. I'll let you keep Eruka for just a bit longer." Medusa started to fade, "Enjoy her while you can."

With that, she completely vanished from sight.

"..." Riku silently staggered back, as the wounds were still fresh. "Guess I'm not strong enough."

Drinking a yellow bottle labeled Elixir, Riku eyed Eruka carefully. Her body had no signs of irregular temperature, and no response when he shook her.

"Guess she's still out." Riku concluded, "I should bring her in, Mickey and DiZ would want to see this."

Riku lifted the unconscious Eruka, making his way back to the Mansion.

"She's heavier than she looks." Riku noted, "Might need a cloak for her too…."

He made his way back to the mansion, with an unconscious Eruka over his shoulders. The mansion was partially destroyed, due to an attack while he was investigating. Behind the mansion, and next to the Gumni Ship, was DiZ and Mickey with suitcases and boxes packed up.

"I'm back." Riku stated.

"Finally, did you find anything useful that we could use?" DiZ asked.

"Her." Riku placed Eruka gently on the table.

He carefully inspected her body, looking for any signs of wounds or snakes. No signs of snake markings or bites were found.

"Who's this young lady?" Mickey wondered, "A friend?"

"A hostage really." Riku responded bluntly, "Do we really need to relocate to the mansion in Twilight Town?"

"Now, now Riku." Mickey sighed, "We only need to —"

"Absolutely!" DiZ tiraded suddenly, "Our machines here were tampered with, the witches have proven to be more than a nuisance and the DWMA alliance has proved its' usefulness."

DiZ finished packing the last of his tools. Closing the box angrily.

"While you failed to fully investigate in Castle Oblivion and the Albarn residence, we lost Roxas, Xion, and even Namine," DiZ continued his tantrum, "It's one nuisance after another in this world! I'm starting to wonder if we have the real Sora too! Donald and Goofy couldn't be found either."

"I'm certain we have Sora." Riku pointed to the CORE with Sora inside, "All we need is Roxas, Xion, and Namine. Simple as that."

"So Riku, why do you have this girl hostage exactly?" Mickey changed the subject, "Anything you want to tell us?"

"Yeah, earlier while investigating the Albarn house, I met Black Star and Kid, from the DWMA. This witch cat— Blair, found Eruka snooping as a spy." Riku recalled and continued, "After they left, Medusa tried to take Eruka back, and I intervened. We fought, and Medusa warned me how something was brewing in Castle Oblivion again. She also told me that Namine is in Castle Oblivion."

"That's not good." Mickey stated. "She's vital to restoring Sora."

"I know. I'll head there to investigate and take care of any threats there." Riku decided, "I'm taking Eruka with me, since she's a witch, she might be able to help. Mickey, try to hold down the fort… and DiZ, I'll finish what I started and return as soon as possible…"

"Wait, what about the girl?" Mickey asked. "Does she know anything we don't?"

"She has information about the Witch Association, I thought I could have her tagalog, since Witches will probably be at Castle Oblivion too…" Riku picked her up carefully, "I think I can get her to cooperate. Anyway, once I finish any business there, I'll send her to the DWMA, as thanks for when they helped capture Xion and Roxas."

DiZ threw a pitch-black coat over Eruka, an outfit just like Riku's. Only less big, and more slender.

"Take it. She may be a witch, but the darkness doesn't care." DiZ grumbled, "Find a way to make her useful. Get on to Castle Oblivion and do it with haste. We need you back as soon as possible…."

Riku nodded, and kept the bottle tucked away in his trenchcoat, hidden from sight.

"I might need the Black Blood, only as a last result…." Riku mentally noted. With that noted, he entered the corridor of darkness, into Castle Oblivion. Riku carried Eruka with him into the dark corridor. Both currently wearing matching Dark Outfits.

Riku left DiZ and Mickey to themselves.

"DiZ," Mickey sighed heavily, "You think that Eruka lass can help us with the alliance for reawakening Sora?"

"Perhaps," DiZ's expression darkened. "This all for Sora's sake; he's running out of time…." DiZ clenched his fist, "Roxas and Xion are going back to Sora, whether they like it or not!"

Silence filled the room.

"How does Riku feel about this?" Mickey broke the silence, "He met Xion before, they seem to get along. Will he be okay with sacrificing two innocent people for his friend? He's always had a problem with putting his priorities over others."

"He'll have to overcome it if he wants Sora back. We need Sora back to defeat the Organization. If Riku fails taking care of Castle Oblivion, then our chances of victory become even more slim." DiZ sat down, "Even I grow weary of this war for vengeance."

The two continued to pack their items before departing worlds once more.

(The World that Never Was: Training Room)

A large area, filled with dummies to spar with, plenty of space for practicing wide attacks, and even different types of rooms for test one's abilities for meditation.

The sounds of grunting could be heard throughout the large room. The one currently in combat was Soul and Xion fighting against one another, with Crona and Ragnarok spectating. They had been sparing for quite some time. Quickly, Xion wiped away sweat that formed on the side of her cheek. Without hesitation, Soul charged once more.

"As a weapon, one of their goals is to become a Death Class weapon or protecting their meister!" Soul repeated, "Make sure you're strong enough to take the hit first."

His scythe leg, slammed into Xion's keyblade arm, causing her to fall back.

"Agh!" She groaned, swiftly getting back up, "I'm not done yet!"

Xion leaped into the air, and somersaulted, turning her leg into the heavy blade, slamming it against Soul. His scythe forearm protected him from taking the damage.

"Good to hear!" He pushed her back, "Use more power next time! Your twist was too weak, and your attack was too predictable!"

Soul charged low, and went for an unpredictable scythe uppercut, with Xion barely dodging the attack. His scythe was centimeters away from cutting her dark black hair.

"That was close..." She muttered. "Fighting as just a weapon is harder than I thought…."

*Ding Ding Ding*

"Time's up pipsqueaks!" Ragnarok called, "Soul: 3. Xion: -3."

"Why is Xion a negative three?" Crona asked. "I thought she did pretty good."

"It's because she's so pathetic," Ragnarok grinned, "That she lost points whenever Soul got some hits in!" He gestured his chest, "Also cuz' she's a washboard, completely fl— "

"..." Xion emitted a murderous glare at Ragnarok.

Crona struggled to cease Ragnarok's voice, and succeeded eventually.

"I'm what now?" Xion tested Ragnarok.

"Yeah I said what was on everyone's mind! Fight me! I dare ya—" Ragnarok challenged.

Crona intervened and covered Ragnarok's mouth with all his might, while the small Ragnarok tried to fight back.

"Nothing! Don't worry about him!" Crona pleaded, "He's just talking nonsense really!"

After a while, Ragnarok gave up fighting and retreated back to Crona.

"Fine, I'll spare him for now." Xion stopped glaring, resting on the floor, "I'm beat."

"Same here." Soul sat laid beside her, applying first-aid. "We've been fighting non-stop for a few hours now. We deserve a break."

"Wait, you're not gonna use any potions?" Xion's expression become confused.

"Why? I ain't gonna rely on potions all the time," Soul placing a band-aid over his nose, "Letting the body rest naturally feels better to me." Soul eyed the potions nearby with slight disdain, "'Sides, potions and elixirs taste bad."

"I think potions taste fine," Xion voiced her opinion, "having an injured body mean we're more likely to fade, so relying on potions helps prevent that." She placed the potion down, rather than drinking it, "I suppose getting tired shows how hard we worked."

Ragnarok reappeared from Crona's back, pushing himself back into the conversation.

"Excuses," Ragnarok piped, "The strong shouldn't rely on first aid or potions. If you die, it's because you were weak!"

"Ragnarok, that's not nice." Crona scolded, "We use black blood, it heals us in the same way." He looked at Soul, "Soul has black blood too and still uses first aid! There's nothing wrong with wanting to use first-aid. He's being safe."

Ragnarok sighed heavily.

"Whatever," he grumbled, "I miss the old days when you were more timid," Ragnarok reminisced, "But now you're finally standing up for yourself. It's weird, so stop doing it! I'm blaming this new you 'cuz of the stupid heart incident! I'm also blaming that noodle brain weirdo, he did something to you and I don't like it either!"

"Heart incident?" Soul raised an eye with suspicion, "Noodle brain weirdo?"

Crona whispered something to Ragnarok.

"Oh yeah, you weren't there." Ragnarok remembered, "It sucks to suck, so I won't tell you the tale!" He crossed his arms, "Not even for one piece of candy."

First with a disappointed sigh, and slowly, Xion opened a small bag, bringing out two pieces of candy.

"How about for two pieces of candy?" Xion bargained. Will he take the bait?

"Nope," Ragnarok turned his head away from Xion's direction, "Not even for three or four pieces either!" He smiled villainously, "Face it, you'll never be able to get me to squeak, and same goes to you Soul!"

"I'm tired, just let me nap in peace." Soul brushed him off, "If I hear anything I want to know, I'll let you."

"Okay… how about for five pieces?" Xion arranged, "I'll even cook you something too."

"Really then… you got yourself a deal!" He licked his lips excitedly, "I would have told you for three, but now I get two more pieces and even some grub. Boy, you're a sucker."

"Ragnarok, you know that's not nice." Crona scolded. "Axel would want you to tell them the truth without any bribes."

"He'd probably want some candy too." Xion added. "If only he was here…" She sighed.

"..." Ragnarok paused. "Well he isn't. So, you gonna hand over the goods for the story or not?"

"Here you go." Xion handed Ragnarok the candy,"Now just make sure you—"

His tongue extended over Xion's hand and devoured all five pieces. With the wrapper, intact.

"Tasty." He licked his lips with satisfaction.

"Yuck." Xion wiped the saliva off quickly, while Soul watched and listen.

"Alright, listen up pint-size." Ragnarok began, "It all started when…"

Ragnarok let out a loud and satisfying burp.

"A creature or something attacked Lady Medusa." Ragnarok lazily narrated

"Oh no, I'm being attacked." Medusa sarcastically sighed, "Crona, do something. Defend your mother. Prove yourself for once."

"Oh no," Crona panicked like usual, "Whatever will we do? Lady Medusa is in trouble!"

"For Lady Medusa, let's take it down." Ragnarok suggested.

"Good idea Ragnarok," Crona agreed, "You're so smart, I wish I was as smart as you are Ragnarok."

"The Great Ragnarok and the pathetic Crona defeated the Heartless. A pink heart appeared, and Ragnarok swallowed it without a second's thought." Ragnarok continued.

"Souls taste better." Ragnarok burped.

"Good job Ragnarok." Medusa applauded, "you saved me, you're definitely going to become Kishin soon."

"Tasty." Ragnarok summarized. "Something feels different, Crona, do you feel a bit different too? Something was wrong with that heart!"

"And the other story," Ragnarok continued, "With the noodle brain jerk went like…"

"Hello Crona," The tall creepy man said, "My name is Vexen, let me examine your body. I won't take no for an answer."

"Ragnarok help!" Crona screamed.

"Watch the merch' ya weirdo!" Ragnarok suckered punched Vexen.

"Oh no, I'm defeated. I'll have my revenge!" Vexen ran away.

"Not bad Raggy." Axel clapped, "Have some darkness and candy."

"Oh wow, now I'm mentally stronger now." Crona grew a six-pack, "Respect me Ragnarok!"

The slightly buffier Crona challenged Ragnarok for dominance. Ragnarok still won.

"You like the thrilling story of yours' truly?" Ragnarok asked.

"..." Crona had an expression of "that's not how things went" with "that sounds about right". He grabbed a piece of his stomach, with no actual six-pack there.

"I feel like I was robbed of five pieces of candy after hearing that." Xion glared daggers at Ragnarok. I want it back, but a deal's a deal.

"Sucks to suck." Ragnarok cackled. "Later losers, I'm gonna rest up." he pointed to Xion with his little gloves "And Not-Maka girl, better make something good."

"Don't worry, it'll be the best thing you'll have ever eaten." Xion gritted her teeth, maintaining a fake smile.

"Better be!"

With that said, Ragnarok retreated into Crona. Crona's leg wobbled a tad bit. Remaining shaky even after Ragnarok was nowhere in sight.

"Crona, which part was right, and which part was wrong." Soul asked.

"Well Ragnarok and I did beat the heartless that attacked Lady Medusa, he did eat the heart, and we did feel different afterwards." Crona continued, "Mr. Vexen tried examining my body, but Ragnarok stopped him. Mr. Vexen used anesthetic on us, and did surgery on my leg. And Axel came back for us and gave us darkness. It really helped!"

Soul raised an eye suspiciously as Crona's legs finally gave in. Before falling on his ass, and onto the cold white floors.

"Oof." Crona groaned, "Wish my legs would heal faster though…"

"Crona are you alright?" Xion offered a hand.

"Dude you okay?" Soul asked.

"I'm fine. Really." Crona denied Xion's hand, "Mr. Vexen's surgery went well, so my legs will be good soon."

"Surgery?!" Soul got up, "Why?!"

"Remember when Xion and Roxas got kidnapped?" Crona recalled, as Soul nodded, "After I got hit by the shockwaves, my legs stopped moving. When Mr. Axel took me to Vexen, things got crazy. Soon Mr. Vexen put something in my leg, a rod I think, and said it'll get better soon."

"Thank you for rescuing Roxas and me." Xion smiled.

"D-don't worry about it." Crona blushed, "Mr. Vexen also told Ragnarok and me that we now have separate hearts, instead of just one. Ever since Ragnarok swallowed that heart… something's changed me— which looks like it's for the best. I still have some problems here and there, but I'll figure something out."

"Good job Crona." Soul praised, "I'm sure Maka will be happy to know you'll be in good shape soon."

The name Maka caused Crona to shake nervously and a smile formed, along with a hint of hue on his cheeks.

"Aww," Xion grinned, "You like Maka?"

"I-I'm going to call it night." Crona got up, "Good bye Xion, Soul."

Crona skedaddled out. Silence filled the air. The training room was quiet once more. Soul stared at Xion, who was looking at the Heart-Shaped moon, hugging her knees with a somber expression. Her mind was clearly troubled, and many things occupying her mind.

"Will this be enough to help Roxas?" Her gave a quiet sigh, "If he gets captured or injured again… what will I do?"

"Hey Xion, why did you ask Crona and me to help you with training?" Soul questioned.

Xion shifted her positioning, towards Soul. A bit of doubt was hiding on her face, however, it quickly went away.

"Ever since Roxas and I lost to Kid and the big mouse, I feel that I'm unable to do my part as Roxas' partner." Xion gave an earnest response, "I need to get really strong, and fast. So—" She showed him her Keyblade hand, "getting stronger by training with another weapon would help."

Soul let out a light-hearted chuckle.

"What's so funny about wanting to get stronger?!" Xion looked slightly offended.

"No— no, it's just that. That sounds like a friend I have. He's a bit of a dumbass, but is willing to get stronger for his friends too. Black Star is his name." Soul smirked, "Nothing wrong with that. Maka's with Roxas right now, so you can protect him another time."

"You think Roxas sees Maka as his best friend now?" Xion looked worried, "I'm a Nobody, so I'm technically not supposed to have emotions, but seeing Maka walk with Roxas… felt weird to me."

Soul paused, thinking about what to say next. "Roxas, sounds like you have some girl troubles coming your way soon."

"Just don't stress to much over it, nothing good will happen." Soul advised, "Maka just invited Roxas to help with some supplies. Just as friends. We're friends too, so I'll get stronger to help out." He gave Xion a reassuring look, "This mess with the traitor status, the confusing alliance, it'll all work itself out eventually."

She gave a gentle smile. We're friends with more people. Axel will be happy to hear that.

"Thanks. It means a lot to me. I guess I was worried for nothing." she got up, "I'm going for a walk at Twilight Town. Good-bye Soul."

"Peace Xion. I'm going to bed too." Soul got up and went his way. "Don't stay out too late or you might catch a cold."

Location: Maka's new room, located closeby to Roxas' room.

"Maka how long do I have to hold this?" Roxas asked.

"Just hold still a bit longer." Maka taping the poster's end, "And—Done."

The two backed away from the poster and began to look at Maka's customized room with awe. The white desk with several books stacked everywhere, the white bookshelf with portraits of her friends, and inside held her clothes. The walls had a few posters of bands she enjoyed, and some motivational ones to help her studies.

"Okay Roxas," Maka chipperly stretched in peace, "How does this room look? It looks a bit like the old one, right?"

"Uhh," Roxas tried remembering her room, compared to the new one he was in, "Sure."

"Thanks." Maka took a breather and sat on her custom bed, patting the open area next to her, "Roxas, can we talk? Soul isn't here right now either."

"What's up?" He sat on the bed, next to Maka, the bed felt comfier than his own. Wish I had a bed like this when I was in a comatose.

"How long do you think Soul and I will stay like this? Here as Organization Members." She questioned, "It's a real change of pace here, but I'm worried. And maybe a bit scared."

"Scared of what?" Roxas asked. She's been… scared?

"Being here in the Organization." She frowned, "Soul and I still have our doubts about this place, and with the ways are going. It feels too sudden, even for me. The witch alliance Xemnas made… it complicates things because whatever experiments that are happening, could be used to endanger the lives of those I care about."

Her eyes examined her new room, once more. An imitation of her real room— a fake.

"I feel guilty just trying to make things more— homely. A day has pretty much passed since Soul and I have joined this Organization." She laid down on her bed, hugging her pillow, "My friends too, they might get targeted if Soul and I try to leave. Which is bad if someone like Marluxia is sent."

She closed her eyes, and hugged the pillow tighter with frustration. Roxas awkwardly patted Maka's back, attempting to help her.

"Thanks. It feels like the DWMA doesn't trust me. I know Soul and I technically got tricked into joining, but at the time, it sounded like our best option." She recalled, "Maybe we should've stayed back at the DWMA, and fight our friends— maybe then we could hear what's really happening."

"If it makes you feel any better, the higher ups don't tell Xion or me what's going on either." Roxas consoled, "All Xion and I need to do is just collect hearts for Kingdom Hearts. Once Kingdom Hearts is revived, we all get our hearts back and become whole again. That's what they say." his hand was closing into a fist, "Don't worry about your friends. I'm sure they can manage, even if your gone for a while."

"What do you know?" Maka seemed somewhat offended, "When I left, Kishin Asura was set free, and there's a chance he made alliances with the witches too. That makes him stronger with his connections. My friends could be in danger, and what's more is—" she glanced to one of the portraits of her posing with people Roxas somewhat recognized, "I miss my friends."

"I have no idea who Kitchen Aura is—"

"Kishin Asura." Maka corrected.

"—but if you're friends with people like Black Star and Kid, I'm sure they won't be in any danger. They're tough. You guys have hearts— emotions and everything, so you guys are… connected with memories." Roxas reassured, "If you guys are far apart, your memories will still stay close to you." That's what Axel told me.

"I guess you're right. I'm sure they can handle some danger while I'm gone. I guess I was worried for nothing. If I feel lonely, I'll just remember the times I spent with them." She took a breather, refreshed with a clearer mind, "Whatever happens, we'll handle it somehow. Maybe joining this Organization wasn't such a bad idea after all."

"Good to know I was able to help." Roxas got up. "At least your friend Crona is alright, and Soul and you aren't gone."

"Leaving already?" Maka saddened. I thought we were making progress.

"Yeah, just gonna get some fresh air and call it a day. Night." He exited. Today I want another Sea-Salt Ice Cream bar. I earned it.

Twilight Town: Clock Tower, at night

Roxas noticed another figure on top of the clock tower. Making his way, he saw Twilight Town at night instead of the evening. As usual, the place was quiet and peaceful. With two sea-salt bars in hand.

Roxas waved the bar in front of her, the ice cream still in his hand.

"Hey Xion." Roxas greeted, "Want some Sea-Salt ice cream?"

"Yes." She licked her lips, receiving it, "Thanks Roxas."

He sat next to her, as usual.

"No problem. So how did training go?" He asked.

"Tough, but fun. Being a weapon is hard." She gritted her teeth, taking a large bite. "I have to cook for Raggy though." "Ragnarok's gonna regret that."

Roxas laughed.

"Hey, my cooking isn't that bad." Xion pouted, "I just need more practice."

"How much practice do you need?" Roxas teased. "I bet in your earlier life, you still sucked at cooking."

"As much practice as I need." She took another bite, "How'd go with Maka and her books? Is she falling for you?"

Roxas' eyes widened. Speechless, wild, and confused described his expression well.

"Aww, young love." She teased. "Does Soul think you're worthy of Maka?"

"She doesn't like me in that kind of way," Roxas quickly denied, " I just helped her set up her new room."

"So did you two talk about anything interesting?" Xion question.

"We talked about her friends and stuff." He took a bite of his ice cream, "The talk involved caring for friends. It made me remember how lucky we are to have Axel in the Organization with us. Too bad he already left for Castle Oblivion."

"Yeah... I miss him too." Xion finishing her bar.

"Anything happen Soul and Crona after training?" Roxas asked.

Xion hesitated.

"..." Xion paused. Don't tell him about why we trained, just the results. "Yeah, I lost five pieces of candy to Raggy, and Soul said we're all friends."

"But… don't friends eat ice cream together." Roxas stated. "We've haven't eaten with them yet."

"I thought so too, but I guess it's a human thing, where friends mean something a bit more and also a bit less," Xion tried explaining. "I think we should invite them sometime for ice-cream. It'll make us official friends— I think."

"Good idea." Roxas agreed.

"I know it is. I came up with it. "Xion took a bite of Roxas' ice cream. "Thanks for the meal."

"H-hey!" Roxas noticed the last of his treat was now in her mouth. "Give that back!"

"Make me." She stuck her tongue out with victory.

The night continued as the two nobodies stuck around just a bit longer. A lingering question in Roxas' mind hid itself from the conversation; How long would Maka and Soul be able to stay in the Organization? Why is the Organization with the Witches? What is the Organization hiding?

Author's Note: Oh boy, another chapter completed. Enjoy it while you can, I doubt you'll get another update like this soon. Seriously, like four months and no new chapter? Good thing I'll post the new chapter in like four years with Kingdom Hearts fandom completed dead lol. That was a joke, it feels like the KH fandom has been in the grave forever, but at least Kingdom Hearts III will revive it. Soul Eater… that fandom has been dead long ago.

Also, special thanks to StellarMage99, boxofraindrops, and Lucius Walker for giving me that good feedback. Check out their stories too.