Nobody's Love

by animearlinefreak

It was just an experiment in order to see if Nobodies could develop hearts. But the more research that they gather for the project, the more two Nobodies realize how much pain of having a heart really is.

7. I feel like somebody's watching me!

Hello everybody it's been awhile since I last updated this story hasn't it. Between this story and my other two, I am trying to balance them out and finish them all one at a time. Fortunately I am almost done with one of my stories that I started writing back in high school so I hope I can get that one done soon, and then this one and this other one I started but I had no idea when I was going to finish it since I had a vague idea of what I wanted to do with it. But enough about that I want to get all the stories that I have written so far finished and the only way for that to happen is for me to get this one started.

So without further ado I present this chapter!

Previously on Nobody's Love: After giving Vexen and Zexion his speech about being sensible and being thoughtful about their test subjects Axel and Demyx, the two Nobodies no longer had any interest in doing another stare off any longer as they quieted down and decided for now it was best to watch in silence. However another agreement was taken into consideration that night as Vexion, Zexion, and Lexaeus all thought that private sessions for Axel and Demyx would prove more beneficiary than group ones every now and then as it might broaden their idea of how far their test subjects are pulling through with this experiment before calling it a night.

I little warning the characters are properly going to be OOC! Enjoy!

Chapter Seven: I feel like somebody's watching me!

About approximately two and a half weeks has passed since the contract between the Flurry of Dancing Flames and the Melodious Nocturne commenced and so far aside from the steamy kiss the two shared together only a week ago, it seemed like their relationship hadn't progressed in the slightest. On top of that, it seemed that the equipment that Zexion, Lexaeus, and Vexen had installed in their bedrooms and on their body themselves seem to malfunction whenever the two boys decided to spend "quality" time together.

Due to this suspicious occurrence Vexen the lead scientist behind the entire assignment took it upon himself to personally see what exactly was causing his beautiful tech. to shut down. Deciding it was best to sneak into the boy's room just before they were all to report to the dinning room table for breakfast, the ashy blond lifted his left arm into the air creating a dark portal to one of the boy's bedroom as he quietly tip toed in the portal entering silently on the other side. At first the only thing his green eyes could see was darkness, of course considering where they lived it was always dark in The World That Never Was, however after several moments pass, his eyes adjusted to the darkened room as he let his eyes roam the room hoping to find a nice spot to spy on his subjects.

It wasn't very long before he spotted the slightly open closet door in the corner of the room. His lips curled in a satisfied smirk as he crept silently toward it. Maneuvering around piles of clothes, video games, and whatever else the occupant of the room accumulated within it he finally reached his destination. Raising his fist in a victory pose, he grabbed the door and gently pried it open. A soft squeak was heard from the hinge of the door as Vexen paused petrified that he would get caught.

Movement was heard from the bed as the owner of the room shifted in his bed. His eyelids slit open as he turned in the direction where he heard the noise. But instead of finding anybody or rather a Nobody lurking in his bedroom, he saw nothing at all. Blinking a few times in confusion, he thought that maybe he was hallucinating about hearing something before he slumped back down on his pillow welcoming the reminder of nighttime to take him back to dreamland.

However unbeknownst to him or rather Number VIII, he didn't see Vexen make a quick decision and immediately duck behind a pile of clothes that were lying on the floor. Heaving a sigh of relief, the Chilly Academic immediately regretted that action when he took a whiff of the pile of clothes he was hiding behind. Shielding his mouth and nose from the ghastly stench, he felt his stomach lurch as the older Nobody felt his body want to purge the contents in his stomach out.

"What in Kingdom Hearts is that horrible smell? Doesn't Number VIII know how to do laundry or is he just lazy?" Turning his head around in order to breathe in fresh air, he had to take deep breaths and swallow the saliva that had collected in his mouth as well as the bile that wanted to come up before he was able to remove his hands from his face. Once that was done, he was able to take a better look around the room now that the danger of being caught had subsided.

Aside from seeing the piles of clothes, video games, and other commodities he saw a nice big flat screen TV on the wall between the bed and the closet. He also noticed despite the lack of light that was in the bedroom that the Flurry of Dancing Flames also a decent movie selection among the littered room. Picking up one of the dvds he found, he turned it over to inspect the contents on the back of the cover before turning it back over once more. After a few seconds transpire, he peered at the bed where the red head slumbered before he quietly slid the movie into his coat wanting to "borrow" the movie for his research.

Once he pocketed the movie, he turned back to the closet as he contemplated once more whether he should seek shelter there or should he find another place to hide so he could observe his two subjects. After a few seconds of musing he made his decision however instead of foolishly trying to pull open the door he instead created a dark vortex and simple walked in it only to quickly walked out of it in a matter of seconds because of the other side was Axel's closet. Once that was accomplished, he smiled to himself relishing the fact that his infiltration plan was going a more smoothly than he had planned. He settled down on the pile of clothes that surprisingly smelled pleasant compared to the previous clothes he unfortunately smelt earlier as he produced a notebook and pen out of his organization coat as he glanced through the slightly open closet door eager to see just what would happen when his subjects would arise and greet each other. However what he wasn't prepared for was the nasty thing known as sleep take over his tired body.

About forty minutes have transpired, the Chilly Academic unbeknownst to himself had fallen asleep on top of Axel's clean wardrobe unaware that he was going to be awaken in a most unpleasant way.

When the alarm clock on Axel's nightstand read 7:00 am, the little devise began to beep uncontrollably until someone would wake up in order to turn off the annoying devise. Of course the occupant who lived in the room Vexen had currently sneaked into was extremely lazy and refused to acknowledge the pesky alarm was blaring in the room. A groan was heard from the crumpled sheets and comforter lying on top of the bed as a lanky pale arm flew out of the warm comfort of the bed sheets as he roughly smashed the alarm button off. Once that was accomplished the arm returned to its warm confines as the sleeping nobody returned to slumbering once more.

Vexen on the other Nobody that was in the room awake just as soon as that blasted devise switched on as he begrudgingly rubbed his eyes as he sat up in the closet. Blinking a few times before his eyes adjusted to the light that was coming from beneath the fire bender's bedroom door, he was a little confused at his surroundings. After carefully analyzing his location, the cogs in his brain finally registered where he currently was. Searching from his notebook and pen, he was able to retrieve the said items as he gently grabbed the doorknob and slightly opened the door a little. A loud screech was heard when he opened it as he cringed from the noise it made, but fortunately for Vexen, Axel was reluctant to get up and see what the commotion was choosing to stay in his blankets and continue to sleep.

A sigh of relief escaped from the scientist's mouth as he peered in the slightly darkened room when he suddenly heard a loud knock on Axel's bedroom door.

"Hey Axel you up yet? We need to go the dinning room in less than fifth-teen minutes unless you want to get scolded again."

Another loud knock was heard on the fire bender's door who like before refused to acknowledge the noise invading his oasis of dreams as he snuggled into his pillows beneath his comforter and bed sheets. A soft grunt was heard from beyond the door as the nobody sounded annoyed by not getting any sort of response from the red head. The sound of a howling wind was heard and their footsteps receding and then echo as the dark vortex opened up into the bedroom as the nobody ventured out.

Number IV's curiosity intensified when the nobody approached the bed where the red head nobody was sleeping obvious to their visitor as they stopped at Axel's bedside. Placing their hands on the soft mattress, they leaned toward the lump on the bed as their weight caused the bed to groan from the new weight being placed on it. And with a cocky grin, they spoke to Number VIII but this time with a more playful nature instead.

"Axel you need to wake your lazy bones up unless you want to face the wrath of Saix!"

A hand darted out of the folds of blankets and sheets as the Flurry of Dancing Flames replied to his rude awakening. Peering up at his intruder through the covers, he glared at who dare try to wake him up. Feeling a yawn coming on, he stifled the dreaded response by placing his other hand over his mouth as he replied to his visitor.

"Go away...leave me alone. Give me five more minutes...then I'll get up."

And with that said, he pulled his arm back into the darkness of his blankets as he tried once more to get a little more sleep. However when he pulled his arm back, Axel wasn't expecting to have his appendage be pinned down by the other Nobody. Feeling agitated by his inability to retrieve his arm back, he used his other arm to pull the sheets and blanket off of his face in order to see just who was pestering him this morning.

"Now look here, I haven't had a decent nights sleep due to the extra missions Xemnas gave me recently. So if you could show me some courtesy and let me sleep in it would be much appreciated."

"Oh come on you big baby, I know you went straight to bed the moment your mission was over last night even though you promised we would play some video games today." A pout formed on the young nobody's visage as he looked at his best friend.

After being an official organization member for approximately two and a half weeks, the young golden blond nobody slowly began forming a bond with the notorious Flurry of Dancing Flames. Since hanging out with Number VIII, the young boy had really come out of his shell and warmed up to some of the organization members especially with the newest member Xion. Of course thanks to Saix for pairing the two key blade welders for missions every so often, it left Axel peeved beyond reasoning with a strange sensation that he could not comprehend.

Deciding it was best to take a different approach for his situation, he reached over and grabbed the red comforter on the bed. Once he got a firm grip he grabbed the soft fabric, and with one great heave the young nobody was successful enough to yank the covers off of the fire bender's body.

The instant the half awake nobody felt the cool air of the room due to the lack of the blanket and only clad in his boxers, his body quivered from the cold. Opening his eyes for the second time that morning, he was ready to chew out whoever disturbed his sleep, the fire bender was met with a pair of electric blue colored irises. His anger seem to melt away when he took a gander at just who entered his bedroom as the scowl he had on his visage changed to a smug grin. Untangling his legs from the sheets that were on him slightly, he swung his legs over the side of the bed and stood up. Slanting his hips and placing one hand on them, he turned to the other Nobody in the room. And with a cool collected voice he responded.

"Hey there Roxy, I didn't know it that you would be my wake up call for this morning." Axel's smile spread further when he took a couple of steps toward the key blade welder. "What do I owe for this special occasion?" Stopping just an inch away from the young blond, he boldly laid his arm on the boy's shoulder earning a sheepish jerk from his response.

"N-No reason actually um...I just wanted to wake you up before you got in trouble with Number VII since I got in trouble once when I slept through breakfast." Feeling something that was similar to the emotion of nervousness, Roxas moved Axel's arm off of him as he scratched the nape of his neck and averted his gaze away from him.

Feeling something deep within him like something sharp jabbed him in the chest, Axel placed his hand over where his heart would be as he stared at the boy as if he were hurt. "I am hurt Roxy that you didn't want to visit me just because you missed me. Aren't we pals?" Arching one red eyebrow in his direction, Number XIII whipped his head around alarmed that Number VIII would say such things.

Reaching out to grab his hands, the golden blond nobody looked directly up at Axel and replied, "Of course we're friends Axel in fact that is the other reason I came to wake you up." If he was able to blush, Roxas would be turning red right now from his embarrassment.

Feeling a little upset that he revealed that he cared for his red headed friend, he wanted to surprise him first with the news when they went to the clock tower to eat some sea salt ice cream. But now that the news was out in the open, Roxas thought it was best to give Axel a nickname. Inhaling a deep breath of air and then slowly exhaling the breath, he opened his mouth to speak.

"Hey Ax I just wanted to check up on you and see if you woke-" Someone began to speak from beyond the doorway as they gently opened it as a young sandy blond nobody entered the fire bender's room when he cut off his own sentence alarmed at what he saw. Expecting to see a half naked nobody sprawled out on the bed resisting the urge to wake up, Demyx was surprised to see Roxas there holding hands with Axel instead. Feeling a strange lump begin to form in his throat, he couldn't comprehend why he felt like something was breaking inside his chest from seeing how close the two nobodies were becoming.

"Um...I guess this is a bad time then." The water bender started to speak up again, as he quickly averted his gaze not liking how unwanted he felt at that exact moment. Shuffling his feet a little, he turned his back to them before replying once more. "I guess you're awake now so I guess you didn't need me to wake you up then so I'll just go on ahead and-"

"Wait Demyx you don't have to go!" Roxas hollered at the older nobody interrupting him as he dropped Axel's hands and walked toward the other blond in the room. Pausing when he reached the water bender, the key blade welder gently clasped his shoulder in a friendly manner and smiled up at him. "We both can wait outside his bedroom and let Ax get ready and we can all go together."

"Ax do you mean Axel?" Demyx questioned Roxas who simply nodded his head in response as he turned toward Axel. "Did he just call you Ax?" Feeling the pain in his chest increase after hearing those words, The Melodious Nocturne could not believe that someone else besides himself was calling The Flurry of Dancing Flames by the nickname that he had given him. Believing that their bond was slowly being encroached upon, he felt his eyes prickle with that uncomfortable sensation of shedding tears. Swallowing that hard lump that continued to be persistent in his throat, he tried to remain calm and mask his new feelings of betrayal, pain, and a hint of jealousy that he wasn't aware of from the other two nobodies.

"Well I guess he did Demyx..." Axel said letting his voice trail off as he nervously scratched the nape of his neck awkwardly not knowing what else to say the sandy blond. Sensing something was off with the water bender, he found it rather difficult to look in his direction knowing what Roxas said rubbed Number IX the wrong way.

Meanwhile in the other side of the bedroom, Number IV was happier than a kid in a candy store just looking at his two subjects interacting. What wondrous emotions he saw between the two that he had to write down everything that he saw in front of him.

"Yes, Yes, Yes this is a glorious development that is displayed before me. Simply marvelous!" Vexen muttered to himself in his hiding place in the closet as he vigorously wrote down everything that was transpiring before him in his notepad. Feeling the reminiscence of satisfaction in his entire being, he pried the door open a little more in order to get a better earshot on the conversation the boys were having. But when he opened it just a little more, he unfortunately jerked forward and landed in a pile of clothes.

Immediately gaining everyone's attention and forgetting about their current dilemma, Axel, Roxas, and Demyx were surprised to see Vexen leap out of the Number VIII's closet. Feeling a reminiscence of confusion inside their being, no one dared approached the crazed scientist for fear of what might happen if they got too close to him. Instead of venturing toward the Chilly Academic, one of them choose to talk to him.

"Hey old man, what in Kingdom Hearts are you doing in my room?" Raising his voice loud enough for the old nobody to hear, Axel crossed his arms over his bare chest as he looked at Vexen expecting an answer.

Lifting his body up from the pile of stinky garments, the ashy blond stood up. Without uttering a single word, he turned to the sandy blond and red head. And what he did next sent chills down both of their spines when he gave them a great big satisfying grin. The grin although seemed innocent to Roxas who wasn't aware of Axel and Demyx's assignment that they were drafted to, he approached the nobody offering him some help after his fall from earlier.

"Uh...are you okay Vexen?" Roxas asked tilting his head to the side in wonder. "You look like you hit your head a little too hard from the looks of that cut on your head." Tenderly placing his fingers on Vexen's face, Roxas examined the cut in order to determine if it was a minor or major one that needed medical attention. Although nobodies didn't have hearts and couldn't produce blood because of their mission organ in their body, they still could get injured despite the set back of not possessing such a valuable body part and as a result their bodies unleashes a black smoke from their bodies whenever their bodies are seriously wounded. This time however wasn't one of those serious cases.

"GET YOUR HANDS OFF OF ME NUMBER XIII THIS INSTANT!" Vexen shouted hating that someone was trying to examine his physical state when it was his job to do that with other organization members. Not one for liking anyone fuse over him, the Chilly Academic straightened himself up as he quickly tucked away his pen and notepad in his coat pocket.

Flinching back at once from his uproar, Roxas took a step back feeling a distinct trace of fear overwhelm him. Never before had he seen the scientist act in this manner before and he did not know if he wanted to stick around and find out what he was planning if he did. But at the same time he didn't want to leave Axel or Demyx alone with the craze scientist.

Demyx and Axel on the other hand gulped in unison as they both pondered what the loony nobody wanted from them this time. Sadly before any questions were answered, Number VII knocked on Axel's bedroom door. All eyes shifted their attention to the doorway where a new visitor was standing in the hallway. The nobody that was in the hallway was tall, slightly built body, with straight blue hair and piercing golden eyes. Two scars was clearly visible on the nobody's face thanks to the hallway light, they saw how they started in the middle of his forehand criss-crossing each other on his nose with the scar ending just a little below both of his eyes creating a perfect x shaped mark.

"Pardon the intrusion but I do believe that you all are exceedingly late to breakfast and I am afraid that our Superior is very cross with all of you. As punishment our leader has ordered me to tell you that none of you shall receive breakfast and will have to report to Number I promptly in one hour." With his message reported, the stoic nobody exited the doorway choosing to walk to the dinning hall rather than take a dark portal to the dinning room.

Roxas, Demyx, Axel, and Vexen each wore a grimace on their visages not looking forward to the "private" meeting they would have to attend in just a short amount of time. Some muttering was heard underneath their breath as Vexen decided it was best to leave Axel's bedroom saying it was best he put his notes away for fear that their Superior would not like what he was doing in his spare time before disappearing in a cloud of dark smoke. The trio that remained in the room stood puzzled about what transpired and just what their Superior was going to do with them an hour from now.

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In The Hall That Never Was, Xemnas the Superior to the organization was in his chair in their meeting hall as his subordinates Saix was seated right beside him. The four nobodies that were summoned to the meeting hall stood in the center of the room. Rather than sitting in their proper seating, Number I told them for their insubordinate they would have to stand instead of taking a seat in their comfy chairs in the room.

Vexen, Axel, Roxas, and Demyx all stood side by side in the center of the room uncomfortably waiting for what sort of punishment that their Superior had in store for them. Unaware of the saliva that had accumulated in their throats, they swallowed it down as they cautiously watched their leader peer at each one of them with his menacing amber eyes. Flinching beneath his stern stare, he finally opened his mouth ready to give his subordinates his orders and punishments.

"You all know that anyone dares disobey the rules of this organization, punishment will be bestowed upon you."

"Yes Superior." The four nobodies replied to their leader in unison as Saix stood up from his chair. Giving Xemnas a quick glance to assure that he wanted him to issue their new tasks they would have to complete by the end of the week, only a nod was given to the blue haired nobody who jumped off his seat and told each of them their new assignments.

One by one they accepted their news tasks as they approached the door ready to leave and get their assignments started. However Number I held his hand up commanding Vexen, Axel, and Demyx to stay behind while Roxas was free to go. Puzzled by their leader not including him with the trio, the golden blond left the room and made a mental note to pester Axel for an explanation what their Superior wanted with them.

As the doors to The Hall That Never Was closed behind the young nobody, both Number I and Number VII beckoned them to come closer. Their steps seemed hesitant when they approached their leader when he spoke up once again, this time demanding what in Kingdom Hearts were the trio of nobodies up to.

"As you are aware I have assigned Number IV to find another way to obtaining a heart without the use of Kingdom Hearts." Placing his hands in the air to express his feelings he felt for their duty, he paused in the midst of his emotional display as he averted his gaze to the two other nobodies in the room. "However what I fell to grasp is what reason is there to involve two nobodies for your project. What is it that you need from them that you can not do without their corporation?"

At once sweat began to collect on Vexen's brow as he nervously wiped his head away as he began to form the words he wanted to say to their Superior. Deciding to tread carefully with his words, he explained to Xemnas the importance of their involvement with the assignment. Choosing to leave out some "details" about why he was using Axel and Demyx for their project once he was finished summarizing what he wanted to say to Number I, he inhaled a breath that he hadn't realized he needed once he was done.

Peering at the silver haired nobody sitting atop of his chair, Axel, Demyx, and Vexen anxiously waited for what Xemnas would say about Vexen's summarized report as they unconsciously held their breath. If they had hearts at that precious moment, they knew they would be pounding loudly in their rib cage as they wondered what their leader would say or rather do to them if he didn't believe Number IV's "statement."

Beckoning the blue haired nobody to his seat, the nobody agreed as he jumped up to their leader's chair. Within moments the two began discussing what was just reported among themselves. After a few minutes, it appeared a decision was made as Xemnas flicked his fist to announce that Saix was dismissed as Number VII approached the small group. Once he was within hearing distance, Saix delivered his message to his colleagues.

"It seems that our Superior has approved of your dubious experimentation and we hope that keep us updated with its progress whether successful or a failure." Flashing an internal warning with his golden hues in the scientist's direction, the said nobody grimaced from the instantly of the glare.

And with that as their final evaluation, Xemnas dismissed his subordinates as Vexen, Axel, and Demyx each wasted no time at creating their very own portal as they exited the meeting hall thankful that it was over for the time being.

However once the three nobodies vacated The Hall That Never Was, Saix turned to Number I with an inquisitive stare. Millions of thoughts floated around in his head as he pondered why Xemnas would believe such barbaric information from Number IV when he knew how intelligent their leader was. His jaw slacked slightly in disbelief at how calm and lax the Superior took the information he was given. Feeling the need to express his opinion about their suspicious project, Xemnas beat him to it by speaking before he did.

"Number VII even though I value every member of this organization, I believe we may have to keep a close eye on their assignment to make sure they don't plan any unnecessary complications within our organization."

"Of course Superior, I will be more than happy to fulfill with this task." A huge smile spread across the scarred nobody's countenance as he created a dark portal of his own leaving Xemnas alone with his thoughts.

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A little time later after the stressful meeting with the Superior was over, Vexen returned to his laboratory as he fussed and fumed about Xemnas nearly finding out about his plans he had with Axel and Demyx. Retrieving the notebook and pen he was using earlier that morning, he skimmed over the contents of what he wrote as a dark vortex had opened into his room. The Chilly Academic was so focused with his research, he wasn't aware of his new company until the said company gently tapped the older nobody on their shoulder scaring the heck out of them.

If he had a heart, it would have been pumping ferociously from his fright as the scientist took a gander at how dare disturb him with his work. Finding it was only Number VI and Number V who entered his laboratory, his fright was replaced with annoyance.

"If you are going to interrupt me from my research, than might I suggest you use the door next time you decide to intrude upon my quarters." Shifting his attention to his two intruders, his green eyes glared at their presence as the smaller nobody peered down at his notes. A smug smile spread across the nobody's countenance when he turned to Vexen.

"Might I inquire, just what are your intentions with this little "outing" you decided to embark upon on your own resulting in our Superior nearly discovering our project's true objective?" Arching a violet silver eyebrow at the ashy blond, the said nobody averted his gaze away from his subordinate when he replied.

"I was merely trying to gain some new information on our test subjects considering our technology seemed to have mysteriously malfunctioned recently."

"Hmm...that is rather puzzling indeed." Zexion said cupping his chin with his gloved hand as he pondered what Demyx and Axel were actually "doing" when the microphones and cameras were down. Turning to his silent comrade, Lexaeus nodded his head as if he knew what the Cloaked Schemer wanted him to do as he created a dark portal disappearing from Vexen's laboratory only to reappear once more a few moments later with his new discovery.

In his massive muscular arms was what appeared to be one of the monitors and the audio speakers that they were using in the library for their assignment. However what was peculiar about the equipment was that fact they appeared to have suffered some fire damage. At once they knew who was reprehensible for the lost of their equipment as they each wore a scowl on their visages.

While the eldest nobody wanted to deck The Flurry of Dancing Flames for destroying their precious technology equipment, Zexion and Lexaeus on the other hand remained relatively calm about what they found. Doing their best to ease the Chilly Academic in order to keep him from causing any unnecessary destructive damage himself, after a few minutes transpired, the ice bender was relaxed and level headed as they discussed what they should do about a certain fire bender.

A few arguments spouted between the trio when it was decided that they should let it slid for the time being until the equipment was replaced. But in the meantime, Vexen took it upon himself to volunteer at watching over the boys despite protests from both Number V and Number VI. But before they were able to talk some sense into the craze nobody, he was gone with his notebook and pen leaving behind two annoyed Nobodies who thought that they should brace themselves for the aftermath of what was to come.

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After two days of extra assignments thanks to Vexen's meddling in Number VIII and Number IX's affairs, both Axel and Demyx were exhausted and hoped that they could finish all their tasks quickly before they didn't have anymore energy to even do anything else. Wanting to personally give the Chilly Academic a good thrashing, Axel was ready to pulverize the ashy blond for the extra work that was bestowed upon them. It didn't make matters better that whenever the two were fighting heartless, encountering Sora and his crew, or just simply lounging around, he could sense the older nobody's presence. It irked him so much so that it really made the red head want to snap.

Demyx on the other hand hardly did his work load that was given to him from Saix due to his laziness, and as a result was scolded by that said nobody who gave him a good lashing as well as a nice lecture about working hard for the organization. However unlike Axel who was hot headed about the strenuous work, the Melodious Nocturne was not in the slightest bit angry in fact he felt that the extra assignments were more tiresome instead. Moping and groaning every time he actually finished whatever missions were accomplished, the sandy blond would immediately retreat to his bedroom. And there he would vent out all his emotions through his music as the melody would lull his body in a comfort state of tranquility. However unlike Axel who was able to sense the sneaky scientist's presence, the water bender however was oblivious to it at all.

But despite their different displays of emotions that they believed they felt, the two nobodies still meet up with each other. Although it wasn't as occasionally as it originally started out, they still kept up the front of hanging out together just not as often as Vexen, Zexion, and Lexaeus would have liked. Today was one of those days when they were actually together.

Lounging around in the fire bender's bedroom, Axel laid sprawled out on his bed with his hands clutching a game controller and his eyes fixated on the big screen where his game was displayed. Demyx on the other hand sat on the floor beside the bed with his sitar in his hands as he gently strummed the cords on the musical instrument.

His aquamarine hues were closed as he played the melody on his sitar. A beautiful yet haunting tone escaped into the atmosphere of the room as a smile graced his features. Lost in the world of music, Demyx wasn't aware that he started playing his music a little too loud causing his partner to become irritated by the interruption. Not being able to hear any of the dialogue his character was saying during the cut-scene of the RPG game, Number VIII shouted at Demyx.

"Hey would you mind playing your instrument a little softer, I can't hear what is going on in the game." Expecting Number IX to oblige his request and play his instrument a little quieter, he was a little surprised when he received no response from the water bender. "Hey I asked if you could play your musical instrument quieter. Please agree by tuning down your song."

Again not a peep was heard from the sandy blond as the red head had finally had it about being ignored. Pausing his game, he swung his upper body over the bed where Demyx was leaning against as he tried to gain his attention. Waving his gloved hand over the other nobody's countenance, Axel was meet again with no answer as his irritation grew. Deciding to approach his matter in a different way, the Flurry Of Dancing Flames got a mischievous idea. Placing his index finger over Demyx's face, he let a single flame to flicker from his finger as he let the flame touch a strand of hair from the boy's bangs. At first the water bender wasn't aware that a strand of his luscious locks were on fire, he soon found out about it when he smelled something burning.

"Hey what is bur- OH SHIT MY HAIR IS ON FIRE!" Shrieking at the top of his lungs, the boy submerged himself with water that he build up within him as his entire body was drenched with water. Taking a few moments to catch his breath, something within him grew an emotion that he rarely experienced. And that emotion was anger.

"DUDE WHAT THE HELL IS YOUR PROBLEM, HOW CAN YOU LIGHT MY HAIR ON FIRE, ARE YOU INSANE!" Grabbing the collar of the other nobody's organization coat, his normally serene aquamarine irises were lit with a flame of fury as he demanded Axel for his reason on harming his precious hair.

At first he was taken back by the Melodious Nocturne's strange flip of emotions, Axel soon found his voice when he remembered the very reason why he pulled that prank in the first place.

"I tried getting your attention earlier about lowering the volume of your playing but you ignored me twice, so I singed your hair in order to get you to listen to me!" Returning the favor, he grabbed the collar of Demyx's coat as he glared at the nobody before him.

They both appeared to not want to back down from their intense staring contest as the two challenged each other to submit and shift their attention elsewhere. But while they were busy giving each other death glares, a certain nobody sneaked into the room to witness the interaction between the two as he furiously wrote all that was transpiring in front of him down. However while they were having their little stare off, Axel and Demyx wasn't aware how close their faces were to each other until a sudden shuffle was heard in the room.

Both boys soon averted their gaze to the sudden noise in the bedroom as Axel and Demyx saw Vexen peering at them from around a smelly pile of clothing. Gagging from the stench the clothing possessed, Vexen held his hand in front of his mouth in order to not hurl the contents of his stomach out. Realizing he had been spotted, the scientist stood from his hiding place tucking away his notebook underneath his arm. Glancing up at his test subjects, a creepy smile spread across his face as he hinted how close the two seemed despite not being able to hear any sound and video feed from the cameras and speakers they installed in the bedrooms.

"My how close you two have become these past couple of weeks since this assignment began. Although I wish I could observe your progress in the comfort of the library rather than stoop to spying on the two of you." Taking a couple steps toward Axel and Demyx, he paused when a thought crossed his mind. "Oh by the way, were either of you aware that the microphones you both wear and the video cameras that we installed seem to be on the fritz at the moment?"

Arching an ashy blond eyebrow at the water and fire bender, the two boys shook their heads almost as soon as the Chilly Academic asked his question. This raised his suspensions further when he decided to press the issue further. Faking a look of surprise, he placed a hand over where his heart would have been as he looked at them with disbelief.

"Really so neither of you knew we couldn't watch what the two of you were up to when suspiciously we found our equipment had been destroyed by a fire." Cupping his chin with his hand, he began pacing in Axel's bedroom as he continued. "The strange thing is why nothing else in the library showed signs of fire damage. Perhaps the fire was controlled by a somebody or a rather a nobody or two." Stopping in his tracks, he shifted his attention to the two boys and cocked his head slightly when he asked for their opinion. "Do you think my hypothesis is wrong or perhaps there is truth to my speculation?"

"Oh Vexen you kidder, you have such a wild imagination." Demyx replied as his usual smile appeared on his visage once more. He used his unoccupied arm to scratch the nape of his neck nervously. Trying his best to not let the older nobody know that it was indeed the two of them who destroyed their stuff, his partner on the other hand looked like he couldn't care less.

While Axel was still held tightly in the sandy blond's hold, he rolled his emerald irises at how foolish the ice bender sounded. Of course the fire bender knew that Vexen knew that he was behind the little fire in the library and that Demyx also helped by keeping the flame under control with his water bending ability.

"And if we were responsible for destroying your equipment what are you guys going to do about it?" Arching his red brow as well, he waited for a response from Number IV after his retort. And just like clockwork, the craze scientist wasted no time in putting his two cents in.

"So I was right that the two of you worked together to sabotage our technical equipment!" Pointing an accusing finger in the nobodies direction, flames flashed in his green irises as Number IV then added. "I have you know that until everything is fixed I will be personally watching the two of you interact together whether you choose to cooperate with this arrangement or not."

"No you can't be serious!" Axel uttered out loud in disbelief. Not only was the red head not exactly thrilled about the project he was forced into, he was even more annoyed to find out that he was going to be spied on in an even closer proximity. Wishing he didn't destroy the monitors and speakers, the Flurry Of Dancing Flames hated the fact that out of the three nobodies assigned to the project it had to be Vexen the creepiest one out of the bunch that would be watching the two of them closely.

"Well I suppose I will give you two some privacy for the time being but mark my words I will return when you least expect it." With that as his final warning, he created a dark portal and stepped into it but of course not without mentioning that they were personally going to reimburse them back for the broken supplies.

After their uninvited guest left Axel's bedroom, the boys chose to remain silent. Not knowing what to discuss among themselves after their little argument was disrupted, the water and fire bender looked in opposite directions not daring to look one another in the eye. Whether it was due to the realization that they would be spending more time than they had initially expected, or perhaps they felt awkward about fighting over something silly. Still whatever the reason was, Axel was the first to break the quietness.

"So...are you going to finally let go of my jacket or am I going to become your permanent appendage?" Feeling a small amount of heat build on his face, he shyly glanced into Demyx's aquamarine hues. The instant his emerald irises met the others, the poor nobody was reduced to a stuttering moron.

"S-S-Sorry Ax I forgot I s-still had a hold on y-you." Instantly releasing Number VIII's jacket, Demyx rewarded the other boy by allowing Axel to see the lovely crimson blush on his visage. Nervous laughter soon followed as Axel joined him as the two shifted their bodies a little distant from each other. About a good long minute passed before their chuckling subsided leaving their sides aching and their nervousness was gone they spoke to each other once more.

"Well I can't blame you for spacing out like that when we had an unwanted guest intrude on our conversation."

"Thank you Axel." A small smile graced Demyx's countenance as the boy pulled his body off of the ground. A puzzled expression appeared on Axel's countenance as he wondered where Demyx was going. Unconsciously he reached out to halt the nobody in his place as the sandy blond stared down at Axel with a shocked look on his face.

Without any words spoken, the red head pulled himself off of the bed. Then without any sort of explanation, The Flurry Of Dancing Flames pulled the Melodious Nocturne closer. The blush that Demyx had on his visage returned as he looked into Axel's emerald irises in wonder. Slowly the taller nobody moved his body closer to the shorter nobody as their faces were only centimeters apart. His hot breath made Number IX's skin crawl as the fire bender's lips parted when they hovered over his.

"Wh-Wh-What is going on? How did we end up in this situation?" Demyx's mind screamed at himself as the distance between them shrunk. Inch by inch, the water bender wanted to push his body away from the other nobody not enjoying the strange behavior he was displaying. However the other part of him that he wasn't aware of just yet wanted nothing more than to have Axel to pursue more of this action. Without knowing what his body was doing, he felt his eyes flutter close as he let himself feel the rapture of the atmosphere take over his common sense as he waited for the fated kiss he was expecting.

But instead of feeling Axel's soft lips pressed against his, he felt something a little rougher on his lips. Confused by the texture that he felt pressed against his mouth, he opened one eye to see what he was kissing and was surprised when he saw Axel's glove in place of his lips. A part of him felt a small pang within in his chest for some odd reason as he stared at the appendage and then at Number VIII. His lips twitched as he tried to form some words to express his distress but all that came out of his mouth was a soft groan of disappointment.

"Sorry but that is for disturbing my video game earlier call it even now." His face was hidden behind red bangs as he turned away from the sadden nobody. His face was a nice shade of pink as the red head, felt something thump almost unnoticeable inside his chest. Placing his right hand over where his heart would be, he pointed to the doorway and said, "Actually you should get going now Demyx, I am actually expecting some company and I need to fix up the room a little."

"Oh...alright Ax well I guess...we can hang out some other time than?" The water bender's voice was low as he spoke softly to the fire bender. Feeling the familiar lump in his throat harden after taking a deep breath and swallowing some saliva, Demyx tried to keep his composure so the other nobody wouldn't realize how upset he actually was when he stared at Axel's back. Raising his right hand, he summoned a dark portal as he took one step into the dark vortex. Shifting his eyes back at the red head, he hoped he would hear an answer to his question about them meeting up later. But instead Axel showed no signs of confirming whether they would see each other soon or not.

A small clear liquid fell down the Melodious Nocturne's visage as he turned back around and entered the dark portal leaving behind a confused and irritated nobody.

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It was another two days that transpired when once again, we find the nobodies in this story exhausted and consumed with their insecurities with what was happening to them. While one nobody refused to acknowledge he may in fact enjoy having the other nobody's company around, the other one was depressed that the other refused to approach them. As the space between them grew with every day that passed, it seemed like the time they spent together was growing less and less.

But thanks to Zexion's ability to get the technology they needed for their experiment quick and efficiently, and Lexaeus for hauling the equipment in and installing the whole system together, they were able to finally see what the boys were up two. Alas now that everything was back up, they could clearly see that their subjects were not bonding as close they intended for them to be. And because they were not pleased by their unusual distance with each other, Vexen, Lexaeus, and Zexion decided to summon the two nobodies for a one on one therapy session.

Knowing what he had to do, Lexaeus opened a dark portal as he went to fetch Axel and Demyx.

About ten minutes later, the burly nobody returned with the water and fire bender close behind him. While Number VIII grumbled about having to even do any therapy, Number XI was a little nervous about the session but it also appeared that he looked a little happy due to the small smile on his visage. Deciding it was best to have Number VI be the one to evaluate the two of them, no arguments were formed thanks to Axel and Demyx agreeing that Zexion was a better nobody to converse with privately than Lexaeus who would probably remain quite nearly the entire time, or worse Vexen who would try to pry out any information he could get out of either of the two boys and encourage them to do stuff together that they would much rather not do at the current moment.

"Number XI, I believe I would like to have our session first and then afterwards Number VIII any objections with the order?" Upon seeing them both shake their heads, he beckoned for the Melodious Nocturne to follow him into his private study.

Swinging the door open to his office, Demyx was a little surprised to see how much his study looked more like a therapy room rather than a normal office like he first expected. Taking a look around the small room, he was impressed with the beautiful artwork that hung on the walls as well as the certificate degree which was placed up on the wall behind his desk. Peering at the degree, he was astonished to see the words, "Graduated student at Hollow Bastion University with a Bachelors degree for psychology and physiology."

"Wow that is amazing Zexion, I didn't know that were a grad. student at HBU!" Gushing at his past life's achievements, he touched the certificate with awe.

"Yes it is rather impressive if I do say so myself and I would much prefer that no one would sully my achievement with their dirty hands." Immediately once the violet silver haired nobody showed disgust in someone touching his stuff, the sandy blond backed away from it as his arms flailed in a nervous manner. Finding his jittery behavior irritating he ushered for him to have a seat on the couch as the Cloaked Schemer took a seat in his leather chair beside the couch. Not wasting anymore time, the boy quickly plopped on the comfy couch smiling in contentment at how soft it felt. It was then that Zexion began interviewing the young sandy blond.

"I am not sure if you are aware that my colleges and I have reinstalled the new equipment in the library and have purposely been observing you and your partner's actions since then." Reaching into his organization coat, he produced a pair of reading prescription glasses and gently placed them on his face as the Cloaked Schemer jotted down something in his notebook with Demyx's information on the cover of it. Glancing up at his patient, his eyebrow arched when observed how fidgety his body became at the realization that the cameras and microphones were reinstalled in their bedrooms.

"I...uh..." Demyx began to speak as he stared at his fingers. Not liking how Zexion looked like he was scrutinizing his every move, he shifted his attention in the opposite direction of the short nobody. "No I didn't know that everything was back up and running."

"Then you have an idea of why we summoned the both of you here today." Feeling some discomfort in his legs, Number VI crossed his left leg over his right in order to get more comfortable for the long conversation he knew was coming.

"Actually..." Thinking hard about what he should say next, the sandy blond didn't want to appear stupid in front of one the most intellectual nobodies in the organization as he tried to come up with something that didn't make him look foolish. However the more he thought of why Axel and himself were called together, he couldn't comprehend the reason why. Giving the short nobody a sheepish grin, he chuckled lightly as he answered honestly. "I haven't the slightest idea why you wanted the both us here. Is it time for our evaluations or something?"

Groaning underneath his breath, Zexion had to stop writing in order to rub his temples as he felt a headache was going to arise if Demyx continued answering his questions so childishly. Glancing up at Demyx who now was staring back at him, he explained the dilemma he, Vexen, and Lexaeus witnessed on their cameras and heard on their speakers.

Five minutes later, Zexion leaned back in his chair after his disbelief with the carefree nobody as he sighed out loud. Not knowing if he was going to get any new development stories from the Melodious Nocturne, he closed the notebook he was writing in prepared to dismiss Number IX and ask Number VIII to come in next. However what Demyx said next shocked him.

"If this little bit of information helps in your research then I will tell you what happened between me and Axel two days ago." Finding himself more comfortable to lay down on the soft couch, the sandy blond closed his aquamarine hues as he recalled the incident he had with Axel as he told Zexion all about it in explicit detail. After he was done, he felt his face heat up in embarrassment as looked over at the Cloaked Schemer.

Instantly he was amazed that he would witness the ever calm and collective nobody he always knew stand up abruptly with his jaw wide open. Feeling Number VI's hands on his coat, Zexion demanded to know what brought this sort of action between the two nobody's as Demyx continued to stare at him in confusion. Blinking a few times in order to see if what was happening in front of him was actually happening, he took a deep breath and spoke.

"To be honest...I don't know why Axel did that sort action. The only thing he told me afterwards was that he called it even for interrupting his game that he was playing earlier." With that said, the other nobody let go of his subject as he sat back down in his chair and began writing everything he told him once more. But in the midst of his writing Number IX began to talk once again recalling something else that occured that day.

"Now that I think about it, I wonder why he tried to scare me with that kiss incident when just before Vexen made his presence known, he burned a few strands of my hair before that." As proof to his story, he parted some of his hair revealing the very strands that were blackened due to the small fire the Flurry Of Dancing Flames lit up.

"Hmm...that is strange indeed." Zexion said as he felt his glasses slip toward the end of his nose. Finding it annoying that his glasses fell, he slowly slid them back toward the bridge of his nose once more. "But there is something you failed to answer for me Number IX. What do you feel about the situation?"

Giving him a serious stare, he gazed at the normally skittish nobody waiting for the boy to either deny feeling anything for the fire bender out right or ignore his question and try to change the topic entirely. He was once again astonished once more by Demyx's honesty and sincerity when he admitted to him what he felt.

"If I have to say this out loud I won't lie that I wanted Ax to kiss me in fact something inside my chest tightened sharply when he freaked out at the last moment." Directing the other nobody's attention to his chest by pointing in the place where his heart would be if he had one, Zexion stood up and marched over to desk. Pulling open one of the drawers, he grabbed the stethoscope. Asking him to unzip his coat and pull up his shirt. Demyx didn't hesitate in doing what the other asked him to as he did as he was instructed to do.

After concentrating hard on hearing any sort of noise in the Melodious Nocturne's chest region, he heard the soft thump that resembled the sound of a heart beat that he heard not too long ago. But this time however, it sounded a little louder as it resonated in his chest and beat a few seconds faster than last time. Nearly dropping the stethoscope after listening to Demyx's chest, he pulled them off of his ears as he grabbed the nobody's medical chart and began recording the new information in it.

"Hey...Zexion I mean Number VI, is something the matter you seem flustered?" Sitting up from the couch, he tried to feel the short nobody's forehead to see if he was ill however his hand was swatted away.

"Number XI I will be frank with you. The heartbeat we found last time was faint compared to how it sounds now even if there isn't much of a difference than before that is..." His voice trailed as he thought about what he should ask the boy next. Luckily for him, the water bender was the first one speak.

"That's amazing Ze- Number VI, but there is one question I want to know."

"I'll let the name slip slide for the time being but do continue." Encouraging him to ask whatever was on his mind, he returned to his notebook with his pen in hand.

"How do I get Ax to notice me?" Feeling his throat tighten after saying what he secretly wanted to know out loud. His cheeks turned red as he shyly hid his face behind a gloved hand. Too bashful to let the collective nobody see his tinted countenance, he was rewarded with some helpful advise from Zexion.

"If you are referring to how you can divert his attention away from Number XIII, the only thing I could suggest at the moment is try doing something courteous for Axel. If you surprise him with something he might find pleasant perhaps it would damper his attention with Number XIII and have it be directed toward you. Of course I am not certain if it will actual work but it is worth a try."

A million watt smile flashed over the Melodious Nocturne's visage as he shot up from the couch and grabbed Zexion's hand. Shaking his hand vigorously, he thanked him from the bottom of his currently non-existing heart that was now forming as he walked out the door to do just that leaving behind a stunned and bewildered nobody.

Blinking several times in order to comprehend what he just witnessed, he sighed as he rubbed his temples. Going back to his desk, he pulled open a different drawer than before as he produce a bottle of aspirin and the bottle of water he left sitting on the desk earlier that day. Swallowing a couple of the capsules down with the water, he waited for the drug to take some effect before he would let Axel come into the room. A smile spread across his face as he thought how adorable the sandy blond appeared when he got some advise from him. He hoped that whatever he had planned to give to the red head the other would graciously accept it and not get upset by his sweet gesture.

'I hope everything works out for the two of them. Number IX is a kindhearted nobody and Number VIII better appreciate how fortunate he is to have someone like that slowly develop feelings for him and have him grow out of his infatuation for Number XIII." With that as his final thoughts, he walked toward the door and called Axel into his office.

An exasperated expression was displayed on the tall nobody's countenance as he stared up at the short nobody who summoned him into the room. Rolling his emerald irises at how professional Zexion tried to present himself, he rose from his seat he was sitting in as he strolled into the room. Giving off the presence like he owned the entire room, he spotted the couch and the leather chair beside it as he cracked a grin. Instead of sitting down on the sofa that Demyx had occupied a short time ago, he decided to sit down in the Cloaked Schemer's chair.

"I believe that is my chair that you so happen to be sitting in Number VIII, please remove yourself from it and sit in the designated place that is meant for guests." Feeling a remote emotion that resembled anger, he tried to contain his composure by closing his blue topaz eyes as he focused on the folder and notebook that had Axel's name on it.

"Alright shorty I'll humor you and lay on the mental couch that you so graciously offered me." Rolling his emerald irises at Number VII, the Flurry Of Dancing Flames smirked when he noticed how annoyed he made the other nobody feel when he took a seat on the couch. Once seated that is when Axel's session began.

Taking several deep breaths, Zexion slowly mentally counted to ten before proceeding with Number VIII's evaluation. Seating down in his comfy black leather chair, the intellectual nobody produced a handkerchief from his coat pocket in order to the lens of his glasses. Glancing up at the tall nobody on the couch beside him, Number VI peered at Axel with his left eye that was not covered by his bangs as he tried to read the red head's actions when he at last began to speak.

"I asked your partner this earlier but I would like to ask you as well, do you know the reason why we summoned the two of you here today?" Placing the notebook on his lap, he expected a sarcastic remark from the ever charming fire bender of the organization. However Zexion was going to receive another surprise for the second time that day.

"If it is about the re-installments of the video cameras and microphones in our bedrooms, I am well aware of that and why you brought the two of us to see you guys." Slouching his body on the couch, Axel propped up his right knee as he placed his right arm on top of it. A bored expression was apparent on his countenance as he stared at the violet silver haired nobody who's mouth was slightly gaped open. Finding the other's reaction disgusting, he made a crude remark about it flashing him a cheeky grin afterwards.

"Hey if you don't want any flies entering your mouth, I suggest you close it before some decide to enter it."

"I beg your pardon for my disgraceful appearance Number VIII, but I am thoroughly surprised that you are cooperating with our experiment without you springing to a torrent of disagreements." Choosing to ignore the fire bender's earlier comment that he made, Zexion wanted Axel to completely be engrossed with their discussion and hope they could make some sort of breakthrough like he had with Demyx earlier.

"Anyway getting back to the topic at hand, I would like to discuss the reason for your current absence."

A stray red stand of hair drooped to his face causing Axel to grew irritated by its presence. Raising his hand to wipe the pesky strand away, he answered Number VI's question without bothering to make direct eye contact with him.

"So what if I haven't been spending every minute of my spare time between missions to hang out with that airhead, I can hang with other nobodies besides him without anyone telling me otherwise."

"I'm afraid that due to your lack of enthusiasm to this assignment, I insist that you continue to interact with Number IX otherwise there will be dire consequences." Giving the red head a rare sight to behold, Zexion gave him a fierce grin that would literally scare anybody or even any nobody and cause them to run away from him. In fact, Axel himself felt his body shrink back from the intensity of the vicious smile the short nobody flashed him that he unknowingly gulped in nervousness. Trying his best to appear unfazed by his message, Number VIII returned the smile back at him.

"I'm sorry little Zexy but you, Vexen, or even Lexaeus can't control my every actions by your intimidation. In fact I believe this session has come to an end, I bid you ado." With that said, the fire bender stood up from the couch as he sauntered toward the doorway. But in the midst of him departing, the Cloaked Schemer blurted out some private information from his previous session with the Melodious Nocturne.

"Do you care to discuss your reason for that almost kiss that you nearly gave Number IX?" The instant those words came out of his mouth, Zexion bit his tongue at his foolish behavior. Wanting so much to slap himself for his odd action with this experiment, he had to reel in his emotions before speaking to Axel once more. "Perhaps you would care to explain what were your exact intentions before you retreated at the last moment?" Retrieving his pen that he dropped on the ground due to his abrupt outburst, he pushed his glasses up after they slid down the end of his nose before he looked up at his patient.

"Did you get that information from Demyx?" Axel said as he whirled around in order to face the shorter nobody. A mixture of emotions was flashed across his visage. Ranging from betrayal, sadness, distraught, and finally anger flickered in his emerald hues as his arms dropped to his side.

Fascinated by the range he was seeing from the normally suave nobody that everybody knew and loved, Zexion's hand flew across the paper as he wrote everything that he was witnessing before him. After a brief few minutes of writing, he placed the pen down to talk to Axel once more.

"To answer your inquiry it is true, however what strikes me as odd is how this would be effecting you." Arching a violet silver eyebrow in Number VIII's direction he continued. "Tell me what do you feel when you observe Number IX?"

"I'm a not exactly sure, I mean I know I enjoy his company every so often, but..." Pausing in the middle of his confession, he stopped to ponder what he thought about the goofy nobody. He knew he liked how easily he could read Demyx's emotions whenever he displayed them, but he found him at times to be a bit of a pest whenever he wanted to continuously hang out with him when Axel wanted to hang with his buddy Roxas. But lately he noticed that whenever he hadn't had any contact with the sandy blond for some strange reason, he would see Number XIII as Number IX instead. Finding this phenomenon odd, he always chalked it off as his mind being familiar with the water bender's nearly constant presence and how it somehow impacted his image on to Roxas since the two of them had similar hair color and hair styles. Even though he was a little curious as to why he sometimes felt nervous around the other nobody and not act like he normally would whenever he would spent time with the simpleminded nobody, the red head still couldn't decipher what sort of feelings he had for him at the moment.

"Number VIII is something wrong?" Number VI asked. A look that mimicked concern flashed in his blue topaz irises as he approached the conflicted nobody lingering near the doorway. Gently placing his small hand on the fire bender's shoulder, an immediate response was made when Axel flinched from his touch and looked down at Zexion. As if a wave flooded over his visage, all the emotions he felt and didn't know how to express them disappeared leaving a hideous scowl in its place.

"I'm fine Zexy, you don't need to concern yourself with me." Shoving the Cloaked Schemer's small hand off of his body, he turned his body slightly before replying. "To answer your question how I feel about Demyx, I think of him as a friend but not a best friend just yet alright. Now could I please go, there is something that needs to taken care of."

Wanting more than anything to get more information out of the Flurry Of Dancing Flames, the Cloaked Schemer knew that no matter how much he wanted to probe more on the subject, he knew that it was a little too soon for the red head just yet to reveal anything to him.

"I suppose I can release you a little earlier than I had with Number IX but know this..." Straightening his body as best as he could, he peered up at Axel with such an intimidating aura, the fire bender felt goose pimples form on his arms and neck when he said, "If you think to jeopardize this assignment in order to fulfill your worldly desires with Number XIII and harm Number IX in the process. I swear there will be no place in all the worlds where I can't find you and exact my vengeance upon you!"

With that said, he calmly took a step back from Axel whose entire countenance appeared white as a ghost when he nonchalantly opened the door for him. Ushering him to leave his office, the fire bender took long strides out of there but not before hearing Zexion mention to him about doing a fun activity with Demyx in order to kindle their friendship before the tall nobody was out of earshot.

Beyond the doorway both Vexen and Leaxaues stared at Zexion in astonishment and how bold and fierce he seemed then how he normally would behave. While the ashy blond wanted to bombard him with numerous questions about how the evaluation went, Leaxaues placed his huge callous hands on Vexen's shoulder simply shaking his head indicating he shouldn't bother the small assistant as both nobodies left Zexion alone with his thoughts.

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After blowing off some steam by slicing through and burning a hundred heartless in Hollow Bastion, the Flurry Of Dancing Flames believed it was alright to return to the castle. Exhausted by the onslaught on heartless he reduced to puffs of smoke, he opened a dark portal back to the World That Never Was as he stepped through. Once he was on the other side, he was met with a sinister grin and an obnoxious smile. Groaning at his unfortunate luck, Axel had to swallowing all the insults he wanted to unleash upon the nobody before him choosing to instead give them a charming smile and politely greet them.

"Why hello Larxene, it is always a pleasure bumping into you. To what do I owe this occasion?"

A scowl appeared on blond girl's face as her cheery display faded when she asked him the question she needed answered.

"Oh you can cut all that sweet talk to me. I am only gracing your presence to ask just what is that dimwit up to?"

"Demyx?" Axel asked placing his hand underneath his chin. "No sadly I have no clue what your talking about." His curiosity peaked as he thought of all the possibilities why it caused the witch of the organization to be alarmed by the water bender's actions. Having his full attention, the fire bender gazed at the girl expecting her to yell out about what dumb thing he was doing to aggravate here, or what stupid thing he said to her that bothered her. But what surprised him was the fact that what she said to him that Demyx was doing at that moment was so mundane that it irked her so much.

"Oh since when did Demyx start doing your laundry? Is it some sort of punishment that you thought of for him?" The wicked grin returned on her visage as she seductively placed her slender body next to his. Before the fire bender could react, she began grinding her body on his. His body became rigid from her actions as she cackled from his response as she pulled up in order to whisper in his ear.

"If you need to dish out any punishments on any other nobody, you are always welcome to give me any if you are stressed out." Blowing playfully in his left ear, she bit his earlobe causing Axel to hiss a little from the pain. This only fueled her cruelty when she as added, "That also includes in the bedroom as well."

"Knock it off Larxene!" Number VIII said as he shoved the lightening witch off of him causing her to fall to the floor. A small groan was heard as he stepped over her body. A piercing glare was shot his way, as she opened her mouth ready to chew him out for being so cruel when he said. "If I needed to give any nobody punishments you would be the last person in this world I would give it to."

A loud scream was heard as a satisfied smile spread across his countenance leaving the girl on the ground as he headed toward the laundry room in hopes of discovering what the other nobody was doing with his clothes.

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On the other side of the castle, a lone nobody was in the laundry room busy washing a certain nobody's garments. A pair of earbuds were in the boy's ears as he jammed while he pulled clothes out of the dryer and began folding them and placing them in the baskets he brought with him. So lost with the music he was listening to, he failed to the notice the owner of the clothes step into the same room.

A red eyebrow quirked as he watched the water bender jammed with his tunes as Number IX folded the clothes he had before he placed them in the basket. His hips swayed to the dance music that was blazing loudly enough for anyone within a few meters could hear what he was listening to as Axel tried to wondered why he was washing his laundry in the first place . Not knowing whether to alert Demyx of his presence or let him carry on with his silly dance, he couldn't contain his laughter any longer at how ridiculous Demyx looked. Releasing the laugh out into the open, he clutched his sides as the fire bender tried hard not to fall over with merriment.

After the song ended a couple minutes later, Demyx heard the chuckling as he removed his ear buds. He jumped up startled that someone else was in the room beside himself as he calmed himself down in order to speak to his new company. But when he finally took a good look at who entered the laundry room, the Melodious Nocturne was a little sad that his surprise would be ruined when he wasn't finished with it quite yet. Thinking up a plan on the spur of the moment, he moved his body in front of the garments in order for Axel to not see that the clothes were in fact his, as he decided to strike up a conversation hoping it would distract the Flurry Of Dancing Flames from knowing what he was doing.

"Oh hey Ax I didn't know you were here, is there something you need?" Chuckling nervously at his own words, he smiled at Axel as tried to play it cool and not let him know what he was up to. Alas thanks to Larxene blabbing about what he was doing, Number VIII knew just what he was doing.

"Would you mind explaining to me why you are cleaning my clothes without my permission? Are you tampering with them perhaps like Larxene had done with yours?" Approaching the basket that had some of his clothing, he reached for them when Demyx quickly blocked his path.

Annoyed by his antics, he decided to grabbed the clothes from the other direction only to meet the same results. Growing irritated now, he tried once more this time successfully retrieving his garments. Scanning the clothes in hopes of them not altered with in anyway only to find them in perfect condition, he breathed a sigh of relief as he turned back toward Demyx who flinched when Axel's emerald eyes meet his aquamarine ones.

"Let me ask you this Demyx...why are you washing my clothes?"

"I uh..." Demyx hesitated when his body moved in uneasiness. Not wanting his little surprise he had for the red head to be ruined, he tried to change the subject instead. "Say Ax why don't we forget this little incident and instead lets go to the clock tower in Twilight Town and get some ice cream." Flashing Number VIII a cheerful grin, his silly little facade didn't seem to persuade the other to want to go out a get a sweet treat. Axel was however more intrigued by the water bender's sudden need to clean his belongings.

"Well if you aren't going to answer me perhaps I will gather my things and go back to my room." Shifting his body slightly in order to create a dark vortex with one of his free hands, Axel grinned wickedly when he sauntered toward the open portal.

Trailing a little behind, Number IX pleaded for him not to go to his bedroom. Trying his best to change his mind, he thought of other activities they could do together. Alas no matter how much the water bender pestered him to do something else, it did not deter him from going to his room. Once the end of the dark portal was open on the other side, Axel was able to see just what Demyx was so jittery about.

Normally seeing mountains of clothing, video games, movies, garbage, and such scattered within his room, now it seemed like he just walked into an entirely different room all in itself. All the clothing he had on the ground was now picked up perhaps still being washed in the laundry room. The video games he had were now nicely placed on the stand in his room in alphabetical order as well as his movies on the shelf too. Heck even the trash he failed to throw away was taken care off and there even seem to be a nice pleasant smell lingering in the air. It of course smelled like ocean breeze, one of Number IX's favorite scents.

Not knowing what to say for the Melodious Nocturne's generosity, The Flurry Of Dancing Flames was in a tug of war battle with his sudden emotions. Caught between the feeling of being excited for actually having a clean room where he could find his stuff, and the other feeling that stirred inside of him...anger for Demyx touching his belongings. Conflicted with how he should react to this kind gesture, he was fortunate when the water bender broke the awkward silence when they entered the room.

"So do you like how I set up the room?" Giving Axel a warm smile he also added. "I hope it doesn't upset you that I messed with your stuff, I just wanted to do something nice for you since you always help me out with things." Chuckling a little to himself, the sandy blond turned his eyes away from the red head as he felt nervous about what his partner's reaction would be. Sadly what he expected wasn't what happened.

"What do I think about you entering my room without my permission, touch my stuff, and arrange my belongings? Do you expect me to just be okay with this?" Dropping the laundry basket he was holding on the ground, he raised his hands in anger as his voice rose he felt the flames of rage boil inside of him. The room began heating up from his fury as a wall of flames began forming around the room.

A moment of panic spread across the sandy blond's countenance when he saw the flames spread around the room as he gulped. Worried how this scenario will play out, Demyx didn't know whether to summon his water for protection or wait to see what would happen next. However just like he predicted, the fire that Axel summoned encased the room with his anger as Demyx unleashed a wall of water in order to shield himself from the destruction.

"I'm sorry Axel I just wanted to be helpful and at least be useful to you that's all!" Cringing from the fire licking hungrily at his water barrier, he yelped in fear when the fire nearly broke through the water's defenses. Scorching hot flames finally encased around him as the water evaporated from the intensity of the fire. Without the water's protection, Demyx was unfortunate to feel the fire as he unleashed a painful holler of anguish. As if regaining his senses from his madness, Axel finally looked around him realizing what his anger had caused.

"Shit...what have I done?" Axel shouted as he immediately ceased the fire at once. After the flames were gone, he rushed to the other's aid inspecting him. Gently peeling the water bender's coat off of his body, he held back his gasp at the scorch marks all over him. The poor nobody whimpered in pain shedding tears from how badly his body felt.

"I...Demyx I'm really sorry." The Flurry Of Dancing Flames spoke in a soft whisper as he wrapped his body around the injured nobody. A few tears fell from the red head's visage as he held the sandy blond's quivering body. He did his best not to harm him any further. Over and over he apologized to him as he held him close more and more tears cascaded down his face.

A dark portal opened up in Axel's bedroom as a big burly nobody emerged from it as well as scrawny nobody. Upon entering on the horrific scene, the two nobodies wasted no time at retrieving the injured nobody that was held in his partner's arms. At first the other was nervous about them taking Demyx away from him, he realized it was better they take him with them considering they would be able to help him more than he ever could. After they took him away, Axel just stayed in the spot where he last was with him as felt his body convulse from the terrible actions he had afflicted on Number IX.

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Four days pass when Axel finally got word about Demyx's condition. Briefly explaining that the boy was fine aside from the burns he received and how surprisingly fast his body was healing from them. Not understanding the bizarre ailment that helped the water bender with healing, Vexen was determined to find out the cause with that. As for Zexion and Lexaeus...they just wanted Axel and Demyx's relationship to grow.

But thanks to the footage they saw after Number IX's friendly gesture for Number VIII, they feared that Number VIII would cause Number IX harm in the future. Believing Axel should treat Demyx more kindly and perhaps take some anger management sessions with them, he didn't argue with their requests. Instead he was more concerned how the Melodious Nocturne would act around him now after his "little" outburst.

Allowing him to enter Vexen's healing station, they pulled back the curtains that were concealing the nobody as Axel was meet face to face with Demyx. His emerald irises stared into the other nobody's aquamarine hues as he took one step toward him. Immediately he noticed how the other squirmed from his advancement and then decided to not proceed any further. Feeling extremely nervous about finally seeing Demyx after so long, he was at a loss about what he should do. Scratching at the nape of his neck, he shifted his attention to the wall as he muttered underneath his breath.

"Come on Axel you're here with him now don't get weak in the knees."

Catching a little of what the fire bender was murmuring to himself, Demyx cracked a smile. Never had he seen the fire bender without a calm demeanor that everyone in the organization knew him to possess, but now he was reduced to talking to himself and uncertain what to say. Fortunately, it was the perfect ice breaker for the two. Without realizing what he was doing, Demyx felt his sides shake uncontrollably as he released a course of laughter into the room. Placing his hand over his mouth, he tried to stifle the noise but alas it was impossible for him to control it considering how funny he thought this situation was.

"Hey just what in Kingdom Hearts are you laughing out?" Whirling his body around in order to see what was going on, he was shocked to find Number IX chuckling uncontrollably at his expense. His face heated from annoyance and a little bit from embarrassment as he demanded him stop at once.

"Okay Ax I'm sorry for laughing it's just funny seeing you so stunned and unsure what to do which isn't like you."

A smug smile replaced his frown as he walked toward the bed. "Yeah you are right about that Demyx, I don't know what overcame me." Once he reached the bed, he plopped himself onto the bed as he said. "Let just hope that doesn't happen again." Giving the sandy blond a playful wink, he was rewarded with another chuckle from him as he smiled at him. But once he noticed how calm the other appeared, Axel thought it was best to discuss earlier circumstances.

"Listen Demyx about what happened a little while ago I just wanted to apologize once more and let you know that I really am sorry for how I overreacted with your kind gesture. I should have been more grateful rather than let my anger take over." After he finished what he needed to say to the water bender, he bent his head down in shame. Half expecting the other to yell at him for how foolish he was for acting so childishly over something so trivial instead of appreciating what he done for him. Though what happened next literally took his breath away.

Leaning toward the distraught nobody slumped over the bed, the water bender gave him a small kiss on his cheek. Stunned by his actions, he cautiously turned to Demyx who simply smiled down at him and said, "I know you didn't mean for that to happen, it was actually my fault for touching your things without asking for your permission first. For thought I should apologize." Bowing his head as Axel had down earlier, the fire bender was flabbergasted about what he should do.

Not believing that it was Demyx's fault for his terrible actions, he really found it uncomfortable that he was getting an apology from the one he caused harm!

Beyond the curtain, there were three nobodies quietly eavesdropping on their test subjects eager to know what will happen next. While Vexen busied himself by vigorously writing everything that was transpiring in his notebook, Zexion and Lexaues stared at the two nobodies with identical looks of hope in their eyes. They hoped that their relationship would develop further forming an unbreakable bond of friendship and love.

"The progress these two are displaying is developing smoothly if I do say so." Vexen gloated as he admired how well their assignment was moving along. But Zexion on the other hand had another opinion on the subject.

"I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but if Number VIII doesn't realize his developing feelings for Number IX and continues to pursue Number XIII, I believe dreadful consequences will happen with this couple." A grave expression appeared on his countenance when he looked at his associate who only nodded his head in agreement.

Not liking how he was the odd man out, he glared at his two subordinates. Ready to lash out at them for disagreeing with his theory on their two test subjects, what happened next silenced them all.

"You shouldn't apologize for this situation when we both know it is my fault." Turning to face the perplexed sandy blond, he placed his hand on top of his before continuing. "It was a thoughtful gift you gave me and I blew it out of proportion. In fact thanks to you, I can actually find things in my bedroom now." Feeling his face heat a little at how silly it sounded to admit his room was filthy and was in better conditions thanks to Demyx, an idea popped into his head.

"Say now that you are better perhaps we should do something together as a thank you for what you've done for me and to officially make it a worthy apology from me." Flashing his famous cocky smirk he used whenever he felt confident, a round of groans fell on deaf's ears for the two in the room. Rather than seeing an ecstatic music loving nobody jump up and down in joy for his generous offer, Demyx however did something else.

"I appreciate your offer, really I do but..." His voice trailed a little as the boy thought of how best to let the other down without hurting him. Soon an idea began to form in his head as he told Axel, "I made plans with Xigbar today. I promised I would go swimming with him once I felt better. I'm sorry Axel can we do this another time?"

"Yeah...sure...I guess if that is what you want." A pout formed on the fire bender's visage as he saw how the water bender perked up after hearing him accept his excuse.

"Great well I'll talk to you later Ax!" Giving him a goofy grin, he tore off the sheets to the bed he was sitting in as he leaped out of it. Summoning a dark vortex, he strolled toward it never once looking back when it closed behind him.

Not knowing it at that instant, Axel couldn't comprehend what was he feeling at that moment when Demyx left him alone. A sharp pain was felt from the location on the right side of his chest when he reached for the spot where his heart would have been. A small pounding sound thudded in his chest as the red head stared at the location where he saw the sandy blond was. A somewhat longing look appeared on his countenance when he rose from the bed he was sitting on.

Several scenarios played inside his head as he tried to find the best one he should follow. Hating how indecisive he was, Axel wanted to do something in order to stop this frantic strange emotion that was forming inside of him. Releasing his hold on his chest, he sighed at how foolish he might have seemed at that moment when he took a slow breath and began to regain his cool composure once more.

It was then Zexion made his presence known to the conflicted nobody. Pulling back the curtain he, Lexaues, and Vexen were hiding behind, the Cloaked Schemer took a few steps toward Axel. Once he got his attention, he thought it would be in the other nobody's best interest to know about the other's lie.

"So Number VIII, how does it feel to get left behind by your partner instead?" Raising a violet silver eyebrow after his inquiry, he was curious how the fire bender would respond to his question. But rather than yelling at Zexion for even assuming he would be upset about the situation, Axel chose to answer him in a calm manner.

"If I was being completely honest, it actually hurts a little getting my plans delayed when I really wanted to hang out with him." His face formed a frown as his posture slumped over in a very undignified manner. Resting his head on his hand, he also added, "Besides if he made plans with another nobody, who am I to stop him."

An irritated sigh escaped the short nobody's mouth as he rubbed his temples. Not comprehending why Axel was so gullible for believing Demyx's fib, he decided enough was enough. Not enjoying how Number VIII's new found depression was causing him another headache, he flat out told him about Demyx's lie.

"How foolish and dense could one nobody be!" Zexion shouted out loud causing both Lexaues and Vexion to jump a little in alarm. Unaware that the Cloaked Schemer would have the lung capacity to produce such a loud sound, the bulky nobody walked over to him and gently tapped his shoulder. Shifting his attention away from the red head, his blue topaz eyes meet pale blue ones. A silent stare off commenced as Zexion and Lexaues looked at each other for a solid minute or two before the shorter nobody blinked and shifted his eyes away. A small smile barely visible for anyone other than Zexion who was next to him to see flashed across his visage, before he answered what the other nobody couldn't.

"Number IX lied about his plans with Number II."

"What are you talking about Lexaues?" Axel asked lifting his head up. A confused look appeared on his visage as he questioned the muscular nobody once more. "Why would he lie then about having plans!" Rising from the bed he was sitting upon, Axel stared into Number V's eyes expecting, no demanding an answer from him. Except the one to respond to the nobody's ranting was now Number VI.

"Perhaps he is a little nervous around you after your previous encounter when your anger flared."

Glancing down at the short nobody, his rage rose when he saw how annoyed and serious Zexion appeared. Wanting so much to grab the smaller nobody by the collar of his coat and demand to know why would Demyx dare say something like that. Sadly before he was able to consider causing harm to Number VI, Number V stood in front of him with his hulking figure. His pale blue eyes stared down at Number VIII as if challenging him to try something. Abruptly Axel backed off from the challenge Lexaues offered to the lanky nobody who chose to admit defeat and calm down rather than fight a pointless battle with the strongest nobody in the organization.

"So what do you suggest I do with my problem than?" Spreading his arms out in exasperation, he felt desperate asking the three for advise considering he didn't understand why it bothered him that Demyx was hanging out with someone other than him. Closing his eyes momentarily when he opened his emerald irises, he was surprised to see a pair of swim trucks in front of him. Quirking a red eyebrow at Lexaues who held up the swim wear, he turned to Zexion who gave him a smile as he explained why he wanted to give the garment to Axel.

"Here wear this. Perhaps with this attire you will be able to get some attention from Number IX if you participate in his interest too." With that said, Number V handed them to The Flurry Of Dancing Flames, as he hesitantly accepted the swim trucks.

"Uh...thanks I guess, but you do realize that water and me don't mix. And will these things even fit me if I try them on?" Examining the swim wear that was given to him, he had to admit they were rather stylish and sleek. They were black swim trucks that had bright red and orange flames on the sides and on the back of them were the words "Hot Stuff" written in red and orange lettering. A part of him wondered out of the three, who was the one who picked out the swim trucks for him. But thankfully someone spoke up replying to his inquiry.

"We are well aware of your weakness to water but we are sure you will be fine. And to answer whether the garments fit you or not, rest assured I personally made sure of it myself." Boasting at how good of a job he had done at picking out swim trucks that were pleasant looking. His ego was more enlarged when he saw how Axel marveled how cool they seemed.

Looking at the swim wear that they gave him then back at Zexion and Lexaues, he gave them a nervous nod before he exited the room using the door instead.

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On the fourth floor of the castle, there were two nobodies in the midst of a race competing with each other in the aquatic facility that they had. A fast blur of sandy blond hair cut through the water like a bottle nose dolphin as a black and grey blur was a couple meters behind him swimming fast as well. However thanks to Demyx being in his element, he was able to maneuver through the water with ease. And it also helped that he had the stamina and build for swimming that gave him an advantage as well.

After they kicked off from the other end of the Olympic-size pool, Demyx and Xigbar quickly swam back in the direction they had originally swam as the older nobody started to pick up his speed. The two were now neck and neck with each other as they threaded through the water as they neared the other end of the pool. Their lungs burned from the exertion they were putting themselves in as they swam toward the end both wanting to be the victor in this race. Though as they were narrowly close to the end of their race, Axel quietly sneaked in.

Wearing the swim trucks that Zexion had graciously bought for him, the garments fit rather well with his thin frame as the red head nervously tugged on the elastic band of the shorts. Feeling completely and utterly exposed with these new clothes, they made the fire bender anxious. Which is why he brought his organization coat with him in order to conceal his bare chest for anyone to see. Being a very proud nobody that he was he did not want any of the other nobodies see him wearing swim trunks, an item of the clothing that he normally never wanted to be around. However thanks to his little incident with the water bender and the promise he wanted to keep with him, he was willing to take a dip in the pool even if he wanted to run away from it.

Taking a seat in one of the empty bleachers they had alongside the pool, he was shocked at how fast the Melodious Nocturne was in the water. Heck he was even more flabbergasted when he saw how Xigbar was able to nearly keep up with the water bender in the pool. Whistling silently, he was slightly surprised that the normally laid-back and lazy nobody in the organization had won the race and Number II who just barely trailed behind him.

"Looks like you won again Demyx. It seems like no matter how many times we compete with each other, you always manage to beat me. I never knew you were so competitive when it came to swimming." The older nobody replied. He pulled his body from the pool as he took several deep breaths in order to breath better. After several seconds, he looked over the edge of the pool where the young nobody was.

"I know I surprise myself sometimes but I guess it has to do with what I was before I became a nobody I assume." Giving the other nobody a toothy grin, he also remarked. "Besides you are getting better with swimming now, you almost beat me this time. I had to really exert myself in order to be a few feet away!"

"Ha, Ha, Ha you're seriously funny bro, but we both know that it is almost impossible to beat you especially since your specialty is water." Extending his hand for the sandy blond to take, Demyx graciously expected his kind offer as he pulled his body from the pool and on to the concert pavement.

An unheard growl went unnoticed by the two nobodies, who both grabbed their towels that were by the pool drying themselves off. Back and forth the two teased and joked with each other as Axel looked at them from afar. A pang of jealously formed in his chest the more he observed the two together that he was ready to just get up and interrupt the two from their cozy friendship. Though what Xigbar asked Demyx made Axel stop dead in his tracks.

"So Demy I have to ask, why did you want to meet up with me for a swim when we both know you would rather be hanging out with your new "best friend" than me." A towel was thrown at his face as the Freeshooter groaned in protest. Yanking the pesky towel off of his head, he wanted to ask him why he threw it at him when he stopped. The look in his aquamarine eyes said all that he needed to know. Sighing at the water bender's foolish infatuation he had with the fire bender, he decided to push aside his pondering curiosity for the moment as his eyes looked at Number XI's his back, torso, and arms.

"Are you sure that are able to go swimming with those injuries. I mean I know that you are obsessive when it comes to swimming but I don't want my bud to cause himself more harm if he's only being stubborn."

"Hey I'm alright okay, Vexen said so himself this morning that I am allowed to go about my ways as long as I don't over-exert myself and use the burn cream in order to relieve any sudden aches I get. At least that's what he told me." Demyx replied pointing to his reddish burns across his body. As if to prove his point, he poked one of the burns that Axel gave him. Wincing just slightly but making sure Number II couldn't see, he smiled brightly. "See it doesn't hurt at all."

"Uh huh sure you are alright. That was quite a performance you performed their Demyx. Perhaps you should do some try outs at Twilight Town for their local theater." Rolling his eyes in a sarcastic manner, he didn't buy that the boy was fine, in fact even Axel who was a ways away eavesdropping on their conversation didn't believe the water bender was alright.

Assuming now would be the best chance to make his dramatic entrance, The Flurry Of Dancing Flames clapped his hands loudly as it echoed off the walls of the swimming area. Both Demyx and Xigbar looked at the entrance of the swimming hall to see who was making that noise only to notice their visitor's bright red hair, slim body, and the way they swayed their body in a sauntering yet demanding kind of manner. They immediately knew it was Axel.

"Alright that was one hell of a race that you both had there, way to Demyx. I never knew how competitive you were until just now." Strolling to the two nobodies in bathing suits, he paused momentarily when he merely glanced at Xigbar to acknowledge him and said. "And you as well old timer. I didn't know you had it in you to swim that fast, let alone be fast enough to keep up with Demyx our little merman in the organization. Oh and by the way, nice swim wear you got there."

Turning to the said sandy blond, he gave him a playful wink. A light pink blush appeared on his countenance as he tried his best to shield his nearly naked body from Axel's wandering gaze. Feeling like he was completely exposed to the red head, Demyx tried his best not to think those thoughts but rather think of something else. However it was a little difficult for him considering Number VIII wouldn't stop staring at his body only making him even more nervous as he cursed at himself for wearing a speedo today of all days.

"Shoot if I knew Axel was going to show up I would have worn my swim trunks or swim pants not this skimpy little outfit."

"Say Demyx are you sure you are feeling alright, I noticed you flinch when you touched your injuries." Genuine concern appeared in his emerald irises as he pulled back one of Number IX's arms to examine one of the many burns he had on his body. Grimacing at how bad they looked despite them healing at a nice pace, they were still quite red and looked painful still.

"So why exactly are you Axel, you definitely don't like water so why come to the pool at all?" Xigbar asked as he arched a black eyebrow. Not enjoying how chummy the red head was getting with the sandy blond, he wished he could shoo the fire bender away so that he and Demyx could continue to spend more time together.

Ever since the month that has past, Number II and Number IX's quality time together lessen with each passing day. And though the old nobody would never express how he felt out loud, deep down he thoroughly enjoyed hanging out with the Melodious Nocturne and somewhere buried deep within the Freeshooter he was a little jealous how close Number VIII and Number IX were becoming. It irked it him so much so that he would do whatever it takes to separate them no matter what.

Wrapping his arms over his bare chest, he glared at Axel with his one good eye while his right eye was concealed underneath a black eye-patch. Hoping his posture would intimidate the Flurry Of Dancing Flames, the younger nobody however wasn't afraid of what the old gun shooter would do if he actually initiated a fight with him. This time however, there wasn't going to be a fight because thanks to a certain water bender stepping between them.

"Hey Ax why don't we hang out a little later after our little swim session alright?" Demyx said grabbing Axel's organization coat as he ushered him to the door. However the other nobody had other plans.

"Actually I came here for a swim as well." He replied unzipping his coat revealing his bare slim chest and his swim trunks. Dropping the coat to the floor, Demyx stared at his naked chest flabbergasted that Axel would really want to swim with him.

"Are you sure that is a good idea Ax?" He inquired as he looked at him with concern. "I don't want you to harm yourself considering your weakness with water." Eyeing the red head nervously, Demyx's aquamarine hues pleaded for him not to partake in this activity. He opened his mouth ready to suggest they both should leave and do something else together.

However, the other nobody that was clearly being ignored between the two nobodies wanted to set a fire underneath the Flurry Of Dancing Flames. A fire we wouldn't be able to escape metaphorically that is.

"Whoa I didn't know you could swim let alone handle being in the water. That is very impressive Number VIII." Xigbar shouted out loud intruding in Demyx and Axel's conversation, he applauded him for his multiple talents. Of course he was being sarcastic when he was praising him but he hoped that the red head was bluffing about swimming in order to knock the cocky nobody down a few pegs if he was and hopefully lure him to accept his challenge for swimming and watch him fail too. Deciding that watching the fire bender swim was more entertaining than to teleport himself to Port Royal get himself plastered drunk, he strolled toward the bleachers. Finding a good spot to watch the spectacle, he plopped down one of the seats as he propped his elbows on his knees and he leaned forward to observe his performance with critical observation.

Shifting his attention away from the Freeshooter, the Melodious Nocturne flashed the Flurry Of Dancing Flames another look of concern. Pleading for Axel not to go through with this, the stubborn nobody shoved him aside as he did a few quick leg stretches.

After a few minutes of stretching, he reached into his coat to pull out a hair tie and a pair of swimming goggles. First tying back his long unruly red hair, he fortunately removed all the hair gel out of his hair before he entered the swimming area knowing how annoying it would be to get the stuff out if he didn't do that before hand. Once he was done with his hair, he put the goggles over his head placing them over his emerald irises. When everything he needed was on him, he took a few steps toward the pool.

A small resonance sound of a newly forming heart beat every once in awhile in his body the more approached the pool as he felt his legs started to feel like jelly. His breath hiked in his chest when he reached the edge of the pool, he glanced down at the beautiful dark blue water below him. Curling his toes over the edge of the pool, he had to swallow the saliva that accumulated in his mouth once he reached the water. Feeling like a nervous wreck just simply staring at his elements worst nightmare, he took a few breaths and he tried to relax and not think about drowning or worse.

"The things I do for attention, I can't believe I am really going through with this but..." Averting his gaze from the pool, to the worried nobody behind him. His nerves seemed to ease down a little as he thought, "Well if I am doing this dangerous stunt for anyone at least it is for someone as kind as Demyx as crazy as this is for me though."

"Come on already just get in there and show us how well you can swim Axey!" A taunting voice echoed in the huge aquatic facility causing the red head to roll his eyes in annoyance. Not wanting to waste anymore time and face the demise, he took the plunge and dove in.

His body immediately submerged underneath the water as panic ensued. Trying to remember how the two swam when he watched their performance earlier, Axel moved his arms forward as he tried to create a rhythm that would help him emerge from the water and not keep him from sinking to the bottom. After a few failed attempts, he felt his body flailing in the pool as he started to resurface with frantic arm moments. Forgetting about moving his legs with the motion of his arms in perfect sync, his lungs started to burn as he desperately struggled to reach the surface.

Gasping for air, water entered his mouth and nostrils as he tried not to swallow the chlorine filtered water. It was then in the midst of his struggle, he tried something different. Thanks to his frantic need to resurface and the lack of oxygen he body was getting, he finally remembered how Xigbar and Demyx moved in the water. Moving his arms outward then bringing them back in, he tried kicking his legs back and forth as if he were running on land. Back and forth he repeated this process with only little success for his progress. However it was just enough momentum he needed to be able to emerged from the water's surface when he tilted his head back to breathe in the air that his lungs desperately needed at that moment.

In-taking the breathe quite loudly, he unfortunately began sinking toward the bottom of the pool once more. Repeating the rhythm that he preformed earlier with his arms and legs, this time he felt his body lift upwards toward the surface. A grin spread across his visage when he waved his arms inward then outward and having his legs kick the water with long strides. He truly felt that he was actually getting the hang of this swimming thing. Up and down his head bobbed in and out of the water as he took breaths in-between each session he raised and lowered his head into the water.

Reaching the halfway point in the Olympic size pool, he heard some cheering in the distance. At first he couldn't decipher if it was Demyx or Xigbar that was rooting for him, but after carefully listening to the voice that was hollering out loud he recognized who it was. His grin from earlier grew wider if possible as he thought it was best to pick up the pace of his swimming like he saw the two had done earlier in order to impress the water bender. Exerting more energy and strength than he actually had. At that precise moment, something tighten in his right calve as the muscles that were in it contracted but didn't expand outward like it should have causing him immense pain. The paranoia he felt earlier arose inside of him when he couldn't use his leg to help him swim in the water as he felt his body sink further into the water. Fear took over his reasoning as he flailed wildly in the water as he tried hard to resurface and regain some air into his lungs.

Though no matter how much he struggled, his arms and legs couldn't help him out of his predicament. The burning in his lungs returned from earlier as he stared up at the surface. His vision began to blacken as the last thing he thought was "This is how I am going out in the end, ha pathetic. This is pathetic even for me." With one final breath escape his body, he let the cold water surrounding him take him further toward the bottom of the pool. But before he lost complete consciousness, he saw a pair of aquamarine irises and sandy blond hair swim frantically toward his limp body.

"Demyx..." He spoke inside his head and that was the last thing he remembered after that.

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Before Number VIII took that fateful dive into the pool, Number IX and Number II watched his swimming performance. At first they witnessed how terrific the fire bender's water specialties were when they saw how he struggled to resurface from the water. Demyx was paranoid by his body not coming up from the water, he threw off his towel that he had slung over his shoulders prepared to dive in after him.

"Hey whoa, whoa, whoa water boy cool your jets there, we haven't given the fire bender a chance to see if he can successfully swim like so called claimed he can do." Hollering at the top of lungs at the sandy blond by the pool, he rose from the bleachers. Hoping the other nobody would take the hint and not swim in after the other, he was relieved when Demyx shifted his attention to the Freeshooter.

"Trust him Demyx, this is Axel we are talking about here. If he drowns than he is even more pathetic than I thought." Flashing the Melodious Nocturne a charming grin, he somewhat put his friend a little at ease when the two of them averted their attention to the pool once more.

This time they noticed how Axel's swimming pattern changed drastically as he was able to pull off the butterfly swimming sequence. Although his butterfly wasn't as beautiful as Demyx's was when he swam that technique, it still was an accomplishment for someone that apparently couldn't swim properly. Believing it was best to encourage the Flurry Of Dancing Flames with his success at learning to swim, he cupped his hand around his mouth cheering for his partner in the water.

"Yeah way to go Axel keep that technique up you're doing great. Come on you are almost there!"

"Yeah keep it up Axel, you are half way there fire bender!" Xigbar also shouted cheering the semi swimming nobody in the pool. Although truthfully he was against even rooting for Number VIII, he had to admit that the kid had guts to even jump into the water. Even though the boy knew he would be in a helpless situation should he fail to not be able to swim, Xigbar marveled at his determination and perseverance. And that is why he believed he deserved to be cheered for in the end.

However in the midst of their cheering they failed to notice that Axel's stimulating swimming ceased. Now sinking to the bottom of the pool only his arms were moving around frantically, but as for his legs it looked as if he couldn't move one of them causing his swimming sequence to alter and deteriorate. Bubbles formed on the water's surface signifying that he was indeed in trouble, when Demyx and Xigbar stopped shouting and noticed his head was no long emerging from the pool, that was when the two of them started to act.

"AXEL!" The sandy blond screamed as he dove straight in attempted to rescue the fire bender. Threading through the water as if he were a seal, the water bender used his water abilities to help him reach Axel's now lifeless body as he hollered at him from underneath the water. His voice was gargled and nearly incomprehensible for anyone to hear him, though he didn't care about that matter as long as he was able to get some kind of reaction from the red head.

"Ax please answer my call, I need to know you are alright! Please let my voice reach you, I don't want you to drown!"

Saying this silent prayer inside his cranium, he hoped against hoped that some kind of miracle Number VIII would be able to notice him and that he was trying to save him. His body was almost close enough to reach out and touch him, he gave one last scream. This time he saw emerald irises look in his direction briefly before closing them once again.

His eyes widen in fear, as the water bender used the last of strength to force the water to pull the fire bender's body towards him. Bending the large quantity of pool water around him, he was successful enough to retrieve the nobody's body as he immediately swam toward the surface. Pushing through the water like an experienced swimmer, he propelled his left arm that wasn't latched around Axel's torso and made long strong strides in the water while he did the same with his legs kicking at the water at incredible speed.

It only took Demyx about a minute and a half to grab Axel from nearly the bottom of the swimming pool to resurfacing with his lifeless body in tow. Inhaling a big gulp of fresh air, his breathing was irregular when he swam the reminder of the lap Axel failed to swim as he brought him to the end of the other side of the pool. Acting with god like speed, he pushed his body out of the water as he too lifted himself out as well. Once they were both out, he pulled him a little ways away from the body of water, as Xigbar finally joined the two.

"Damn after that nice swim recovery he had in the middle of his lap, I didn't expect him to sink to the bottom. Well it is good thing your are an experienced swimmer otherwise he would be a goner." Chuckling to himself about their crazy predicament, he quickly shoved the sandy blond aside as began the cpr procedure.

Placing his hand directly over his sternum, he started doing chest compression counting them as he did them. After about 30 compression, he stopped performing them in order to tilt his head back pitching his noise as he took a deep breath and unleashed it into Axel's open mouth. Giving him two huge breaths, he pressed his head to chest in order to hear if his airways were cleared. Not hearing anything, he repeated the process. Over and over Xigbar worked on Number VIII's body tiredly in hopes of reviving him. However the last compression and mouth to mouth procedure he heard something beat in his chest.

"What is that sound? Is that the sound of a faint heartbeat!?" Xigbar thought to himself shocked at his discovery. But sadly he wasn't able to press his ear to the other nobody's chest to take another listen because thankfully Axel coughed up the water that was lodged within his chest.

Spewing the chlorine filtered water from his lungs, the red head abruptly rose up from the ordeal violently coughing. Hacking all the water that entered down his throat, he opened his eyes in order to see where he was. After inspecting the area he was in, he realized he was at the swimming pool.

"Damn for moment there I thought my non-existent life was gone. Guess I dodged the bullet with that one." After talking among himself, he sighed in relief concluding that he was alive and well...mostly. The pain from his cramped muscle return in full force as he gritted his teeth from the pain.

"Damn it still hurts." He said out loud reaching for his calf as he slowly massaged the cramped muscle.

"What hurts Axel, did you injury yourself when you were swimming?"

A pair of aquamarine hues invaded his personal space as Axel shivered from how close the other nobody was. Leaning back in order to put some space between them, he blinked several times not comprehending why someone was in front of him. However after his brain gave him a quick flashback to the events that lead him to now, he was no longer skittish at how close Demyx was but now he wanted to put even more distance between them than before. Shifting his body slightly without causing any strain in his sore leg, he let his wet bangs shroud his face as he went back to massaging his leg.

"Ax is something wrong, do you need any help?" Tilting his head to the side, Demyx couldn't comprehend what was bothering his partner. Being the naive nobody he was, he gently place his hand on Number VIII's shoulder only earning a rough jerk for a response. Feeling hurt with his actions, he questioned him once more to see if he truly was alright.

"Hey Axel is something wrong, you seem upset about something?"

"I couldn't swim the 100 meters, I looked like a fool out there." Shrouding his face behind wet bangs, the red head bowed his head in shame. Feeling absolutely humiliated by his swimming performance, Axel assumed it was best he should high tail it out of there before making his situation worse. Pulling his body up slowly, he tried his best to not cringe when he placed his cramped leg flat on the floor. Trying not to hobble as he strolled away. About a few steps later, his body couldn't handle the pain any longer as he collapsed to the ground.

"Ax you alright, did you injury your leg in the body?" Worried filled eyes looked into his as Demyx examined both of his legs.

It didn't take him long to decipher what was Number VIII's dilemma when he felt how tight his right leg's muscle was. Gently seizing his leg, the water bender massaged his throbbing leg. A small groan was suppressed as the red head bit his lip and tried to keep a cool composure. Though after the sandy blond slowly worked on his leg, Axel was able to relax a little as the pain slowly started to dissolve. Leaning back in order to get his body more comfortable, he laid his head on the ground as he unleashed a satisfied sigh.

Although the Flurry Of Dancing Flames wasn't able to complete the lap and looked foolish for nearly drowning, in the end he was able to get the Melodious Nocturne's attention. Relishing how concerned the boy was when his non-existent life was almost extinguished, he was glad that Demyx cared enough to help him out despite Axel's constant indecisiveness between Roxas and Demyx.

Meanwhile Xigbar stood a little ways away from the couple fuming with anger. Loathing every second he witnessed their affectionate display, the embers of jealously increased with each passing second. Not wanting to be a third wheel any longer, the older nobody stepped forth demanding some answers the two were keeping from him.

"Yo I hate to spoil your tender moment, but there is something that I would like to discuss with the both of you."

"Uh...sure Xiggy what's up?" Lifting his head slightly from his massaging, Demyx acknowledge the Freeshooter with a nod and a smile.

"Fine, fire away." Axel responded waving his hand nonchalantly. Not caring what the other nobody wanted to ask them, he was more focused on the massage he was getting from Demyx. Another sigh escaped his mouth as he closed his eyes, his legs was starting to feel better by the minute.

Taking a deep breath, Number II cleared his throat loudly in order to gain their attention once more as he probed them for answers. "If my ears aren't working currently, I could have sworn I heard a resonate of a heartbeat inside of you Ax when I gave you cpr."

A look of panic flashed across Number VIII's visage before it was replaced with a more confident demeanor. Shifting his body in order to face the black and grey haired nobody, he replied. "You must have heard wrong." Stopping momentarily he also added to his interrogator, how awful his breath stank when he gave him mouth to mouth.

Feeling the remnants of anger boil within him from Axel's smug remark, he calmly counted to ten in order to not inflict his rage out on an injured comrade. Though it seemed that the hot headed nobody deserved to get some sense knocked into him for being completely ungrateful for him saving him. What was worse was that the red head didn't even thank him or even Demyx for rescuing him. Still he thought he should let his cocky attitude slid for today assuming he could get more information out of them another time. Holding his hands up in the air, he admitted his defeat for today at least.

"Alright I get it you don't want to include me in on your little secret, but rest assured I swear that I wouldn't let anyone know about what sort of experiment that you guys are doing with the trio of scientists." Delivering his message to the two of them, he was actually assuring Demyx about his loyalty rather than to Axel. At least that is how it appeared to the red head.

"Thank you Xigbar for understanding." Demyx hollered over his shoulder presenting him with a warm inviting smile. Xigbar also returned the smile as he lifted his hand and waved at him.

"Yeah anytime Dem, anytime." He spoke softly to himself as he turned his body around. If he had a heart at that moment, he knew it would be breaking after hearing Demyx's honest letdown he delivered him. Placing his left hand over where his heart would have been, he looked down at his bare chest and sighed.

Taking one step forward, he walked slowly out of the swimming area leaving the two ignorant nobodies who were blissfully unaware how the other felt for each other behind.

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Well this chapter certainly was a roller coaster of emotions wasn't it. I hope it was still interesting enough for you guys to continue reading this story and I hope you all will stick around for the next chapter that will be coming your way called Chapter Eight A Frozen "Paradise."

Until the next time we all meet again, Ja'ne!