Author's Note: Hey guys and gals hope you'll the chapter. Feel free to review and dm me if you want to ask any questions. No spoilers though. Also the Witch Association will now be referred to the Witch Order. The reason being it that I forgot the Witch society had an actual name, the Witch Order where old and young witches live and prepare in case of their extinction.

*RING RING RING RING* the alarm clock echoed throughout the room.

"Mhmmm… five more minutes." The young Nobody murmured. His eyes wearily looked around him. The white ceiling was blinding as ever. The blond boy noticed something in a rhythmic breathing motion laying on him. He tried to move, but felt the weight hold him down. Not exactly holding him down, but making it difficult to move. The person's warmth was oddly comforting, but why was the person with him in bed.

"?" His earlier daze had vanished, while his senses returned to him. The person on top of him was the 14th member of the Organization. He recognized that Xion for whatever reason, slept with him in his room. First instincts would be to escape, but his intuition told him otherwise. He examined her peaceful expression and perhaps quiet mumbling. He couldn't make out any words, but she appeared mostly content. No need to ruin the moment.

She looks really happy. I shouldn't wake her up. He realized he was stroking her hair. He quickly retracted his hand as soon as he realized what his hand had done.

Wait… why is she here? What happened last night? Roxas tried to replay last night's memory. He recalled going back to HQ with Xion, they weren't wearing any Coats but rather clothes from the other world.

We weren't in the darkness for that long but why can't I remember anything else besides telling Xion that we'd get think of a way to fix the Keyblade? Could the darkness have affected the blank in his memories? Now they were both wearing the Organization coats again.

Was it the Dusks that changed us? They've never done that before. He looked beyond Xion and at the doorway. Maybe the Samurai Husks know something.

Roxas tried to think of a way to leave the bed and let Xion sleep a little while longer. His only solution was to slowly remove himself, and put a pillow in his place, hoping that she wouldn't wake. Take it easy Roxas, one wrong move and she'll wake up. I wonder if she's like Larxene when someone wakes her up.

Eventually Roxas escaped from Xion, despite her position on him. He noticed when the the pillow was in his previous position, Xion's expression became more gloomy, given how her original heat source had vanished. Nonetheless her slumbering state caused her to continue to hold the pillow closeby to her. Maybe I should've stayed…

Now free, Roxas approached the Samurai Husks outside his door. The Samurai Husk turned its attention to the 13th Nobody.

"Were you stationed here when Xion and I made our way here?"

"..." it nodded 'yes'.

"So you know what happened? As in why Xion's in my bed?" he motioned his head towards his sleeping friend.

"..." it nodded yes once more.

"Can you tell me what happened exactly."

"..." it revealed it's blank face and revealed to Roxas what it saw.

-Midnight-

Roxas and Xion stood out near the doorway. Their outfits were not of Organization protocol.

"Alright cya Roxas. Make sure to change out of the clothes."

"I will, I will. Don't worry Xion. You focus on making sure the others don't see you in that outfit."

"But I thought you said I looked good in it?" she pouted.

"You do, I just don't want the others to try copying your outfit." Roxas reasoned.

"Hehe don't worry. They can try, but they'll be the real thing; me." Xion rose her bicep with confidence, "No one will see me. Sneaky is my middle name."

"Right, and mine's Foundya." he chuckled. "Night."

"Night."

Roxas reexamined the footage.

"Okay, but how did she end up in my bed?"

The Samurai Husk repeated it's previous action and revealed what it saw earlier.

Xion was by the doorway. Her hair was ruffled, and her eyes had dark bags under her somewhat drowsy eyes.

~"Psst, Hey Roxas, are you asleep?"

The Samurai Husk prepared its' blade at Xion. Her reflection showed on the blade's side.

"Woah calm down, I'm not picking a fight. I just need to discuss some stuff with Roxas."

The Samurai pointed at the clock.

"I know it's early, but it's serious. I'm just as sleepy as you are." she yawned. "I'll make it quick."

The Samurai put its' blade back inside the sheath while stepping aside.

"Thank you."

Xion made her way towards Roxas. She gently tapped Roxas' cheek while yawning even heavier than the first.

"Huahh-hey, Roxas hey, we need to talk about how to solve the Keyblade problem."she leaned closer to his ear, "And how we'll contact Axel. Also tell me who was that girl you were with earlier. Wake uppp~." She whispered.

"Zzz…"

"C'monnnn, we need a plan." she poked his cheek.

Roxas rose one eye.

"X-xion?" he lazily muttered.

"We need a plan. C'mon it's time to strategize."

"Sleep first. Planz later. Roxas need sleep."

"You can sleep AFTER we have a plan." Xion shivered a bit, "I'm getting cold out here."

"Your cold?" his one eye closing, "Just get in, we'll plan laterrr."

"I-in with you. In bed?" Xion hesitated, "B-but—"

"No buts just get in." he mumbled half-asleep. "It'll warmmm youzzz."

Xion looked at her freezing hands. Back to Roxas and his cozy bed. Back to her hands. Back to Roxas. Back to the clock. Back to the Samurai Husk. Back to the bed.

"Wellll, since you insist~. Five minutes. Max." she joined him. The heat within the bed quickly made its way onto her.

"Zzz…" the main heat source was the spiky blonde himself.

"Wow you're super warm. I like it."

"ZzzZzzz."

The clip ended.

"Huh… I say weird things when I'm half awake." Roxas summarized, "Wait, did she mean Tsubaki? What would she want to know about her? I thought we discussed this already."

He turned to see the sleeping Xion.

"R-roxas." she mumbled holding the pillow in her hand. "What time is it?"

"It's been more than 5 minutes if your wondering."

"Wha?!" she sprung up, "Wai-w-why am I in your bed? I was only asleep for a few minutes!"

"Rigggght, so the Samurai Husk showed me everything it saw." Roxas explained, "I think we can ask the others if they have any calling card spares from Axel."

"Callin—" Xion briefly recalled last night's event, "Ah, alright that's one issued solved. What about the Keyblade problem and that girl?"

"Tsubaki?" he noticed her intense nodding, "We're just friends. I bumped into her while playing Soul's game and we hit it off. Look, let's just focus on one thing at a time."

"What's your relationship with her? She could be dangerous. First impressions are almost always lies you know."

"...let's just focus on the more important problem; you becoming the Keyblade and me unable to summon mine."

"RrrrOooxas!" she threw the pillow at the blonde's bed hair and face.

"Ack!" He picked up the fallen pillow, "Oh you're in for it now!"

"En Garde!" Xion picked up the second pillow on the bed.

The pillow fight had begun. About half an hour of a pillow warfare, the Samurai Husk intervened and pointed to the clock. Urging the two to get to work.

"Oh no, we're late!" Roxas realized, "Thanks! Xion let's go. We'll figure a way to solve the problems later."

"Guess we got caught up in the moment." she giggled, "I wonder who's still in the activity room."

"Only one way to find out!"

Xion sprinted ahead, creating a gap between the spiky blonde and herself, "Catch me if you can!"

"Your on!" he smiled brightly, preparing to continue a quarry. He turned to the Samurai Husks, "I'll probably need your help again in the future, is that okay?"

They nodded, letting him go chase after Xion. The two bolted the white hallways, past the sweeping dusks, and into the grand activity room. Roxas noticed Xion had placed the hood on her head, revealing on the bottom part of her face. The only Nobodies in there were Saïx and Demyx. Both had some bandages wrapped around some parts of their bodies. In reality, Saïx had a bandage or two on his face while the second Nobody was practically a walking mummy. The mummy, presumably Demyx, was the first to notice the tired two.

"Mhmph. Mhm? Oxamm! Heionnn!" He hopped enthusiastically, "Mhmmhmmphphp!"

The two exchanged glances of ambivalence and curiosity.

"Demyx, is that you?" Roxas undid one of the bandages.

"Oh heya Roxas. Good to see Xion with ya." Demyx thanked while inhaling much needed oxygen," Man you two are like Peas in a Pod."

"We are?"

"Yeah, practically inseparable. Same goes with Axel once he gets back. Say why are you two late?" he rambled on, "Was there another big fight? Were you guys setting up a prank like I did. Whatever you do, don't prank Saïx, guy's no fun at all. One prank and the guy almost throws me out the castle window. Rude I tell you." Demyx continued, "I remember the prank like it was yesterday. Which it was."

"Wait another big fight? Prank?" Roxas eyed the sitar-master with suspicion, "What do you mean? Hear anything about it Xion?"

'No' her head shook.

Demyx looked at the two in disbelief.

"Geez, peas in a pod to the extreme. Miss out the big fight, the epic prank, late as well. Do you guys sleep in the same bed too? " he groaned due to their lack of knowledge in recent events.

Roxas's eyes widened at that last part. How am I supposed to say yes or no? We did sleep together, but it was only one time. If I say yes Demyx will ask more questions probably, if I say no, then Xion might bring up the fact that she woke up in my bed. Then again she doesn't talk around the others. I better keep quiet about this one. He prayed his judgement led him to the right call.

"Alright have fun you two, I need to help X-Scar over there train a certain someone. Guess he's tense about what happened at Castle Oblivion."

"Train? What happened at Castle Oblivion? Is Axel alright?"

"Y—don't worry about it Roxas. I'm sure you'll get the news sooner or later. I just don't wanna be the one who gives it. Next topic—No-Smile McGee face, I can handle him just fine."

"Those bandages say otherwise." Roxas poked.

"Ngh! Just gooo. Also take this." he handed him a mega-potion.

"Why?"

"I hear today's mission is really rough for you two. A super big heartless is in roaming about in Beast's Castle. Good luck!"

"Thanks. See you around, good luck with training."

"I'll need it." the mummy sighed.

Xion and Roxas finally reached Saïx. His bandage meant he fought someone of some combat merit. Demyx was out of the picture then. Xion noticed his expression. It seemed distant, as if he had other things in mind. Given all that, he had an ominous simper. An expression that was never good. He muttered something about the plan taking an interesting course. When he noticed her presence, his earlier simper had vanished into his usual deadpan expression.

"When will you learn, that friendship you think you have doesn't actually exist."

"You're just jealous I actually have friends." Roxas fired back.

"No, you're just delusional." the blue lunatic scoffed, "Now go do these missions; Kingdom Hearts can't be completed without your Keyblade defeating the Heartless."

He handed them today's mission. Roxas quickly took the papers and summoned the Corridor of Darkness.

"Let's go Xion. We'll handle whatever Heartless is at Beast's Castle. "

Roxas entered the Darkness first. Xion followed suit. I wonder if we can discuss this with Maka and Soul?

The Shinigami's mansion was currently preoccupied with a rather important discussion. It first had to actually begin. The ones standing was just DiZ, while everyone was sitting comfortable with the furniture laid about the large living room.

Soul scanned the room one last time, checking if there were any signs of suspicious movement. He could only sigh in relief, a hint of guilt struck him; worried his own friends might get targeted by the Organization Maka and he recently joined. If they did leave the Organization, they would have to fight them.

How long have they been in the Organization? How long have the other members been sent to Castle Oblivion? What made that place so special? Why did time flow differently? The list of questions were ones he had no choice but to ask later. Cool guys get answers on their own. Right? Soul ignored his thoughts and went back to focusing on the topic at hand.

"Is everyone here?" Maka questioned.

"No, Kilik's team are getting ready to retrieve BREW. I'm sure they'd like our assistance too." Kid said. "You think they'll manage? It's a pretty important mission."

"Not sure. Once we finish this meeting we're all going to fight for BREW." Maka reassured. Right, we need BREW to not be in the hands of the Witches. The Organization might use it for Kingdom Hearts…

She already knew who was and wasn't here; given how she had a mental role call and their motivations for being here. It was strange how things ended up like this; learning about a new element and the complexities of darkness and the human heart. A person's heart and mind are crucial for staying human. Even though she studied mainly about the souls of people, the subjects of hearts were almost completely foreign. She mentally patted herself for thinking ahead for asking Crona to borrow some lab reports recently written by Vexen. He's a scientist who knew a thing or two about hearts, most credible person she could think of. Besides Professor Stein and the Library. Anyway, she'd give it back the copies when he'd return. Probably.

She knew the meeting might get tense, but she knew they'd pull through.

The young meister smiled, I'm glad to have made such good friends.

"Soul, Black Star, Patty, Liz, Tsubaki, Stein, Spirit, Father, and Diz are present." Death the Kid informed.

"Good now we can begin." Maka spoke louder, "It's time we began the meeting. We'd like your full undivided attention."

Everyone's attention were turned to the young Meister. Her green eyes scanned the room full of family, friends, and DiZ. DiZ in particular looked rather anxious for it to end, despite the meeting just beginning. She cleared her throat, it felt rather dry, but she needed to put aside that minor annoyance. She looked at the gear everyone had: combat attire, coats, rations. They would head off for BREW after this. Maka felt her palms sweat just a bit.

"Alright Maka, which topic shall we discuss first?" Kid asked first, "Sora's awakening process, BREW, the Witch Order's alliance with Organization XIII, or the stuff on the table? "

Maka looked at Kid, unsure if she had heard him correctly.

"Wait, Sora? Who's that?" Maka asked. Her head gave a slight tilt with her eyebrows slightly raised with concern. "Have you guys met him before?"

"Actually none of us saw what Sora even looked like. Dude's a total mystery." Patty answered.

Silence quickly took stead of the discussion. This new information was rather concerning.

"Hey you're right!" Liz realized, hitting a flat hand with a closed fist, "What gives?"

"To be fair, they were inside the CORES." Kid reasoned.

"What are CORES?" Black Star asked.

"Machines needed to keep them in without harming them." Kid simplified. "I suppose that means we'll discuss Sora's awakening process. First off, Sora is Roxas' somebody."

"So-ra?" Soul sounded out the name as it was completely foreign or the first time he's ever said it, "Roxas'... somebody, what's that mean?"

"R-roxas?" Tsubaki murmured a bit shocked. No, it's just a coincidence, it can have been the same Roxas I met back in the mall. She kept quiet as the group continued talking.

"Sora sacrificed himself to save a friend, however Roxas and Namine were created as a result.

"Right, so this Sora is inside a CORE. We also have never seen the guy too. Something seems off here." Maka eyed DiZ with absolute suspicion, "Are you going to tell us anything about this? About Roxas' Somebody?"

"Yes, his somebody." Kid restated, "His other half, if you will. With Roxas as the key to completing Sora's heart. His original self. A literal 'soulmate' you might say."

"Glad he found someone special. Don't think Xion will be too happy to heard that. " Soul scratched his head, entertained to the idea of Xion reacting to this new information. "Why is Sora being awake so important?"

DiZ gave an exhausted sigh, "Sora's awakening is important because he's needed to eliminate the Organization, prevent Kingdom Heart from awakening and eliminate the Heartless. It's his duty as the Keyblade's Chosen one." He added, "Without him, the many worlds would be shrouded in darkness by now."

"So he's a bigshot who's a asleep, just wake him up." Black Star spoke up, more or less understanding, "Tell him the Great Black Star wants to meet him! C'mon what's so scary about a little darkness? Just turn on a flashlight. "

DiZ groaned again.

"Sora needs more than that to wake up." Kid massaged his temples irritably, "DiZ, more explaining if you will."

"Sora's currently in a comatose, with half of his heart gone, and perhaps even more of it. The reason being is that Roxas had taken some of his heart when Sora sacrificed himself to save his friend. Also there's a girl name Xion who also needs to be captured as well." He explained before they could ask anymore.

"What'll happen once their captured?" Maka asked. "Do they need to meet Sora to give them his powers back?"

"It's a bit more than that." Kid tried to explain with an uncomfortable expression, "They need to put their entire being to wake Sora up?"

"So they need to shout?" Black Star asked "Use a pair of speakers and a micropho—"

Professor Stein interrupted, "What Kid means is that once Xion and Roxas are captured, their essence and powers will go directly transfer over to Sora. If Sora's restored to full power and Xion and Roxas are gone it'll mean it went successful. The Organization's plans will be foiled, another win for us."

Atlas more silence dawned on that explanation.

"Gone," Tsubaki was trying to connect the dots, "as in—"

"Dead." Stein said, "They'll die to save Sora."

"!" Maka, Soul, Tsubaki, Black Star and Patty all looked disturbed. Liz and Kid all looked angered by that statement, but said nothing. Meanwhile Shinigami, DiZ, and even Spirit looked undisturbed.

DiZ scanned at everyone's expressions. "Once we capture them, put them in the CORES, their essence goes to Sora and completely die off like Stein said. It's for the best. If there was any other way we would've found it. Simply put, don't go crying that we have to crack a few eggs to make an omelette."

A bit more stillness passed. Stein thought to himself. They need to let this happen.

"They've done nothing wrong! Why would they be okay with this?" Maka shot up from her chair, "They're my friends! Soul and I can vouch for them, they've fought the Heartless and saved people just like the DWMA. They have every right to live, just like you or me do!"

"Their existence is wrong! All the justification needed; these Nobodies weren't supposed to exist. Eliminating them prevents Kingdom Hearts from awakening and revival Sora! Their death WILL have a purpose for a greater good. Open your eyes and realize; this is the best option possible thus far!"

"Maka's right; they've done nothing wrong! Not like they asked to be made like this!" Tsubaki agreed in a heartbeat, "Stop making decisions about who lives or who dies! Roxas is a sweet boy, and I'm sure they didn't mean to take Sora's powers. Isn't there a way to… I don't know, save them too? Convince to leave the Organization? Find a new heart for them?"

"This isn't cool." Soul recollecting his thoughts, "Whose idea was this? Right Black Star ? Kid?"

Kid remain silent. His eyes focused on the others' reactions. Moreso on DiZ. His yellow-eyes had a fire hiding inside, wanting to be unleashed. He wanted to say something, but it looked as if he didn't have the heart to say it. The same could be said for Liz and Patty. Did they know something he didn't? Soul turned his attention back to Black Star .

"If it's for the greater good he's gotta go I guess." Black Star tried to find his stance, "The guy ain't much while Maka said he's probably a good guy. Hell from what Tsubaki wrote in her diary the dude's even a bit charming. I'm more or less on board with what DiZ has in store. " The others looked at Tsubaki from his words. Before Tsubaki could clarify what happened Shinigami himself joined the conversation at last.

"Now now, Stein, Spirit, DiZ and I are still researching on other possibilities. In the meantime once their captured we'll find a way to get them hearts too but they'll need to be… given up to Sora first. I'm sure we'll pull through and find out a way. Priority-wise it's Sora for DiZ's group and getting to BREW for us."

"Shouldn't we ask Roxas and Xion to hear how they feel about all this?" Soul asked, "C'mon Shinigami you aren't seriously asking for this?"

"Nobodies have no hearts and cannot feel emotions or anything for that matter," DiZ corrected. "Know this, their death is for the greater good. They currently exist to fulfill the plans of the Organization. That alone is worthy of death."

"I can't be okay with this." Maka gave DiZ the death glare, "All this. Killing them off? They —"

"Now now children." Shinigami spoke, their attention turned to him, "We'll find a way to awaken Sora and revive Xion and Roxas afterwords. In the meantime let's discuss the other tasks at hand."

"Well put Shinigami." DiZ grinned for once, "Let's put some collective thoughts onto the next topic."

"... Fine." Maka agreed bitterly , " Are we all ready for BREW?"

"As ready as we'll ever be." Kid said how they all felt

"BREW, why is it so important?" DiZ asked. "I've been a bit too preoccupied to do any proper research." Shinigami answered it.

"Ya see DiZ, it's a Demon Tool composed of Eibon's wisdom. Eibon was a powerful friend of mine whose knowledge was unrivaled. Anywho, we can't let Arachne get to that book, who knows what they'll do with it."

"A rather important mission it seems." DiZ understood.

"Yep, it's so big everyone is going. Kilik's team is already making there way so they'll be going shortly after this mission."

"All those resources or BREW?"

"Yep, it's a battle for BREW!"

"Just hurry on and what your group must."

"We'll worry about the witches, you worry about the Organization~."

They went to the next topic.

"I'd like to discuss the purpose behind the Witch Order's alliance." Maka began, "So far we know the witches want to get information about Darkness, while the Organization gets more potential members to join them and opportunity to get Kingdom Hearts. How should we deal with that alliance?"

"Their purpose won't be worth of much thought anymore. I already sent Riku, Mickey, and That Frog-Witch Eruka into Castle Oblivion. They'll retrieve Namine and eliminate the threats. Witches and Organization members alike." DiZ answered impatiently, "When they realize a witch of their own is plotting against them, the Organization will cease communications. Therefore making them easier to conquer once divided. Now onto—"

"Castle Ob-liver, where's that?" Black Star interrupted, "If they're storming the castle shouldn't we help out too?"

"Hold on—if we had a witch on our side this whole time, why didn't you tell us?" Tsubaki followed up, "They might have the information that we need!"

"That witch could also be a double spy." Kid countered, "Eruka has never been the most trusted one. Not with Medusa around at least. Why did she agree to help?" he turned to DiZ.

His calculating eyes met the others. DiZ glared at the young man.

"It's far away — that blasted Castle. Anymore assistance in the castle will be very unnecessary and time wasted." DiZ dashed that one out, "It's been quite sometime since they departed. I even lost count of days, perhaps weeks, given how time goes at a different rate in their world. Continuing on, they'll go on towards Phase 2 once finishing off the threats at Castle Oblivion I assure you. Capturing and Eliminating Roxas and Xion." his tone was dark as ever. "If their alliance doesn't break, then Maka and Soul will infiltrate the Witches' base alone and break the alliance themsel—

"Without any help? That's suicide." Spirit interrupted with ire in his eyes, "I won't let you put my Maka in harm's danger. Stein and I will go instead. There's no other way about it! "

"Fine, but find a way to sever the alliance." DiZ compromised.

"Bup bup bup,that's if Eruka doesn't find a way to cut the alliance." Said Shinigami, "Err, she knows how to do that, right?"

"... Her success depends on how Riku persuades her." DiZ said. " If that fails, then I suppose Stein and Spirit will be the ones to cut the bonds."

"Shouldn't it be a team effort? I know Stein is strong, but what if they get caught? They'll need backup." she turned to Shinigami, "Can't we be backup?"

"Hmmm," Shinigami played with the thought, "Everyone here aside from DiZzy and I are staying here in the city, and everyone here will be going to assist Kilik's team with BREW. I'm not sure if they'll be enough time for you kids to recover from the fight. We'll plan once we recover BREW. In best case scenario, we get BREW, Eruka breaks the alliance, and focus on the Witch Order and the Organization in separate turns."

Maka noticed how Stein eyed DiZ without any signs of emotion. It looked as if Stein wanted to dissect DiZ. She shrugged the thought and continued with the meeting.

"Onto the next topic." Kid said."What's all this on the table?

They examined the things on the table as Maka recognized each item: the Organization Coat that Xion wore, photos Soul took (or the ones he was willing to cough up), Vexen's reports (good job Crona), and jotted down notes she took when Soul and her first Axel, Xion, and Roxas. Lots of information to go over.

"Why is this coat so… tacky?" Liz asked.

"Looks shady, like those bad guys who wear all black to look suspicious— like in the movies." Patty commented.

"That's the outfit the Organization members wear. It helps them get through darkness without much danger. An anti-darkness coat you could call it." Maka explained, "It's really durable, and it belongs to Xion."

"Anti-darkness? That's possible?" Kid asked, "You think we can use it somehow?"

"Maybe. We'll brainstorm some more after BREW."

…

"Hey Soul what's up with these pictures?" Black Star eyed them. "The ones here is just Maka, Roxas, you and some girl posing. The ones over there are too fuzzy."

"Black Star 's right, everything in these photos are unclear I can't make heads or tails of it." Tsubaki inspected it herself. "That girl is most likely Xion I assume." Is that Roxas' type? He seems more than happy with her closeby. Which is strange since we've been told Nobodies don't have emotions, they only act like they do. In here they seem genuinely happy.

"Oh, those were when I pranked Roxas by getting Blair to leave the bathroom while showering." Soul snickered at those memories. "Things got… out of hand when she bear hugged him half to death."

"You think you can trap Roxas again if it comes down to it?" Kid asked.

"Maybe. Let's just focus on BREW first." Soul brushed it off.

Stein and Shinigami were reading the reports.

"It seems these guys might know more about hearts. This overlimit they discuss seems to be very similar with how we use Soul Resonance." Stein continued reading, "They also have information on Namine. We oughta prepare with caution once we fight them. Who knows what would happen if Namine learned how to use magic like the witches do."

"Is Namine a witch?" Maka asked.

"She's able to change memories of Sora and those affected by him. If she learns how to push it, things could get dicey." Stein sighed.

"Oh-boy, our kids will be in a doozy if caught alone. Better hope things don't get too dicey~"

Spirit was reading the information written by Maka during the interviews.

"Maka this Roxas boy here, did he try to attack you in any way?" Spirit cracked his knuckles, "Just say the word and his life's over!"

"Papa he didn't try to fight Soul or me at all. We became pretty fast friends actually."

"Fine, I know you have heart of gold Maka sweetie but if anything happens know that your papa will be there to save the day!"

"Right…"

After much discussion they concluded everything that transpired.

"Alright it's about time we head to the ships for BREW, let's summarize what we learned." Kid called order to the closure. "With BREW, if things go according to plan, we'll have it and that'll be one thing the witches won't be able to use."

"The alliance with between the Organization and the Witch Order will be taken care of by DiZ's group." Shinigami chimed in. "Or the adults will handle that one, can't let you kids do all the hard work~"

"Father have some faith in us." Kid said.

"I have all the faith in the world~"

"The stuff on the table helps us get a better understanding of our targets along with the power of hearts." Stein summarized. "If you kids ever come across any of the members, proceed with caution. Same goes for you Maka, Soul. Even though you're temporary members in that Organization, it's only a matter of time before they realize you're a double-spy. If you see any of us and we're fighting the Organization members, help them out to keep up the trust you've built."

"Roger that." Maka and Soul answered.

"Sora's awakening process will commence once Riku finishes his task in Castle Oblivion." DiZ stated. "You'll be needed if the Organization or Witches catch wind of any of this."

Everyone acknowledged the importance of this Phase Diz had talked about at the very least.

"Everyone in favor in sacr— capturing Roxas and Xion to reawaken Sora?" DiZ corrected himself, "This seems like the most logical choice. Kingdom Hearts would be closer to the Organization's hands, and there's a sneaking suspicion that it'll do more than just grant hearts."

The ones who rose their hands was Stein.

"Professor!"

"We can't let the Witch's win this one. By letting Roxas and Xion live, it endangers everyone else in the long run. Sora is needed, as much as I hate to say it. The results speak for themselves."

"What results?"

"His fights against the heartless and the villains he's defeated."

"What does that even mean?"

"You'll understand once we've captured Roxas and Xion. if you all fail, it'll be the adults who'll pick up the pieces."

"..."

"Everyone in favor with letting Roxas and Xion live? It might possibly endangering Sora? And the everything else as we know it."

This time it was Maka, Spirit, Shinigami.

"You can't be serious Spirit."

"I'm sorry Frank, but what my daughter says, I'll follow through as well. It's what a father does!"

"Will it get in the way of the mission?"

"Who knows."

"Not exactly reassuring here."

"We've been partner for years, don't worry about it."

The only ones who didn't raise their hands for either were Soul, Black Star, Tsubaki, Death the Kid, Liz, and Patty.

Now I know who'll be most reliable when the time comes. DiZ murmured to himself.

"Alright children, everyone go head off to the stations and rest up! It'll be a long ride, and be sure to take some photos." Shinigami tried to raise their spirits, "Stein I want you two to make sure things go swimmingly with this mission. Miss Marie will already be there. Spirit, you're staying here if anything goes awry but for now rest in the guest room we've had a long day."

"Right!" Spirit saluted.

"Mhm." Stein nodded. "And are the others already there? Kilik's team, and Sid's team?"

"Trust me their almost at the Island for BREW. Now do your best and hopefully we can live to tell the tale."

The kids spoke to one another as they departed. Everyone besides Shinigami and DiZ left the mansion, departing towards BREW. All that was left inside the mansion was just DiZ and Shinigami.

The moon was still in the sky, hovering above the lands. The purple night continued. The two figures stared at one another. DiZ and Shinigami sitting on opposite chairs. Between them was the information they concluded from the meeting, the past notes, the reports about souls and hearts, photos, and the coat.

"DiZ." Shinigami spoke, "I know Sora's awakening is very important, given his feats, but isn't there another way for all this? A way to revive Sora as well as letting Roxas and Xion live too? They deserve hearts, I truly believe that. Surely you have sympathy for them?"

"That's a foolish question Shinigami." DiZ let out a light chuckle, "I've researched hearts for years. This IS the only way. Sora's heart needs his other components to fully function. His memories taken by Roxas, and power absorbed by that puppet — Xion."

"My students, seem to have some connection with Roxas and Xion. I doubt they'd want that friendship to end." he added. "Even though none have met Sora, they want to save him. They also don't want Roxas and Xion to lose their lives in the process."

"Your students are rather naive aren't they?"

"I prefer the terms— young, caring, compassionate."

"That may cost them dearly. If they can't sacrifice two for the greater cause, what about when the stakes are raised?"

"... it'll be up to them to decide. My son, Kid, might be the one to lead them."

"Wasn't he shrouded with darkness prior?"

"Yes, but he'll overcome it. He's a force to be reckoned with when he puts his mind to it!"

"Cheery."

"So there REALLY isn't another way to tackle this situation. Not even Magic can solve this?"

"No, magic merely alters nature. It can create many things, but not such a complicated thing such as the heart."

"Perhaps there's a solution with the magic inside BREW."

"Fine, we'll conduct more research once BREW and the others are retrieved. If it'll persuade your students to continue with their cooperation."

"Kids these days are getting wiser.~"

"Hmph. With that settled, shall we have a drink to celebrate this fruitful alliance?"

"Cheers!"

Their glass cups clinked.

"Professor Stein, why were you looking at DiZ like that earlier?"

"What do you mean, Maka?"

"I mean… you had this look in your eye like you wanted to cut him down."

"I did?"

"Yeah."

"Think nothing of it. For now let's just catch up with the others."

"ARF!" the large Bully Dog yelped after getting hit by another Fira. The Fira caused the Heartless to be engulfed by flames. Despite the fiery layer, it attempted to slam it's body against Roxas. With a shift in weight, he guarded with the Keyblade. He could feel Xion's energy protecting him from the Bully Dog's attack.

"This Dog's tough!" Roxas gritted his teeth. He slashed at the Dog, as its' Heart at appeared and ascended. "Another one down!"

"Roxas watch out for the last two Neoshadows. Both sides!"

Roxas rolled forward, barely avoiding the sharp claws of the Neoshadows. "Thanks Xion!"

"You can thank me with some Sea Salt Ice Cream later, let's finish these guys off."

The first Neoshadow charged towards Roxas again while the second dived into the ground, honing in on Roxas. Roxas changed into a offensive stance with his body lowered, and the Keyblade in front of his body. The first Neoshadow slashed with it's left arm at Roxas's chest. He parried the strike and struck the Neoshadow on its head. It crashed against one of the slashed walls. As that Neoshadow was trying to regain its senses, the second Neoshadow popped from the ground and gave Roxas an uppercut. Before he could react, he received a slash against his chest. The Organization coat took most of the damage, but Roxas still got hurt nonetheless.

"Roxas!"

"It's not over!" Roxas recomposed himself, eyeing the second Neoshadow.

The Neoshadow launched itself towards Roxas only to meeting the end of the Keyblade. Roxas whacked the top of the Neoshadow into the ground, eliminating it before another move could be made. The first Neoshadow barely reacted, as Roxas initiated the final Neoshadows were defeated and victory was given to them. The atmosphere returned to normal as the chill gust of wind entered the entrance of Beast's Castle.

"W-was that the last one?" Roxas huffed as he watched the last pink heart vanish. "We still haven't found today's target."

"Yeah." Xion confirmed, "Roxas are you okay? You seem more tired than usual. Even back in Maka's home you seem more tired than usual."

"Let's just focus on finding today's target."

Xion returned to her original form, wiping away some sweat, "Have you been getting enough sleep recently? How about exercise?" she raised her bicep with pride, "Xion's special training might do you some good."

"Dunno." Roxas yawned, "I think you're just full of more energy than usual is all."

"Pfft, that's the best you got?" she playfully jabbed at him.

"Yeah, once I have some energy, then you'll be sorry."

"Suree, let's just head—"

*PSHHHHH*

The empty space in front of the duo began to ripple with darkness. The small ripple became bigger and bigger until it reached the size of the Corridor of Darkness. The Corridor stood there.

"Did you summon that Xion?" Roxas observed it, standing up.

"Nuh uh, you think it could be Axel?" Xion asked, "He might be no longer stationed at —"

"Hello Roxas~"

The Keyblade duo paused at the unfamiliar voice. Roxas had tensed up as Xion had an expression of confusion. A voice came from the Corridor. The ominous voice had an unusually soothing tone to it. A girl's voice in a friendliest of manner. Did she know Roxas? It can't be Larxene, she's still at Castle Oblivion. Nonetheless the voice itself sounded almost. No definitely. Flirtatious.

The speaker began revealing themselves outside the corridor of darkness. The figure's outfit was the same Organization coat, but it appeared that there was more that met the eye. The person's stature was around Xion's and walked closer.

"Who're you, and what do you want with Roxas?" Xion demanded first, transforming her hand into the front end of the Keyblade. "If it's a fight you want, it's a fight you'll get."

"I'm sorry Xion, but we'll deal with you another time." with a simple gesture or perhaps a signal, another Corridor of Darkness was summoned, but underneath Xion causing her to fall downwards.

"Ahhhh!" as soon as she fell through the darkness, the portal vanished.

"Xion! Xion!" his attention shifted onto the newcomer, "Where is she?"

"She's safe don't worry Roxas. I just wanted to meet you. Under normal circumstances I wouldn't be this confident." she admitted. "However."

A second person walked out the Corridor of Darkness, also sporting the Organization outfit. The person stood behind the one who was currently speaking.

"I think now is a good as time as any."

"Well you're making a bad first impression if you ask me. Now." he glared, "Where's Xion?"

"Sorry loverboy, there's more important things at hand." The second figure spoke.

The first figure turned her back to the second. "Sorry, this is your time to shine. I'll stand over there if anyone tries to… interrupt-ribbit."

The second figure went over by one of the gargoyle statues.

The figure paused, but casted his question away as if it was irrelevant. To the mysterious figure, there were more important things to discuss it seemed.

"Roxas have you realized it yet," the figure asked, "Xion's taking your powers away. That's why you're getting weaker. That's why she's getting stronger."

"Taking my…powers away" he repeated. That statement, even if it was a lie made his throat become dry. He tried to summon his Keyblade but still no luck.

Reflecting upon his life, it was true Xion was getting more stronger recently and he was getting weaker; but surely it was because Xion trained more often. Right? Maybe her newfound strength was due to her becoming the Keyblade and therefore becoming stronger to take down the Heartless.

His glare was replace by an expression of uncertainty, "What do you mean?"