AUTHOR'S NOTE: Hi everyone, summer is around the corner. Well for those that are in the northern hemisphere. Anyhow, here's the next chapter. Slight spoilers in the beginning of the chapter for those that haven't seen or beaten Kingdom Hearts 3 yet, nothing too explicit though. Just thought I give a heads up just in case. I also have a theory regarding that which also contains spoilers but that will wait till the end of the chapter. Now that's taken care let's get started.

Themes noted by #SONG NAME# are from the Puella Magi series.

CHAPTER 3: THE HOLY QUINTET

Radiant Garden Restoration Committee Headquarters

"Even after all these years, I still can't believe YOU guys went ahead with that final battle without us!" Yuffie complains from her seat in a table. Sitting across from her is the Keyblade Wielder Kairi. Over the years since that final battle with Xehanort, she has allowed her auburn hair to grow back to what it was before she was requested by Yen Sid to join the final battle with the fallen Keyblade Master Xehanort. Her current attire is a sleeveless magenta shirt with a large, black heart symbol; starting from the bottom, it branches off and the two branches come towards each other before curving on the inside. The rest of her outfit consists of a red, frilly knee length skirt under a black belt with a golden buckle hanging slightly around her waist. Below the skirt are violet leggings and black heels. Her neck is adorned with a small pendant and hanging from her ears are two crown-shaped earrings.

The guardian of light simply smiles. "Well, we were certain that the seven of us at the time is enough to handle it."

"Still, you could have let us get in the action! I mean we were there assisting Sora on his first journey and because of that we were able to come back home here and make tremendous strides on the restoration along with his help. The least we could have done is arrive in style and take on all the Heartless and whatnot. If we had done that then you…" Yuffie stops short and turns to the side with a solemn look.

"Its okay, really." Kairi says with a small smile. "But then again it was somewhat my fault. Despite my journey before me and Lea were preparing for the final battle, it took out most of my power to keep Sora from losing himself. Because of that, I wasn't able to fight at full strength and …" Kairi trails off.

"Yeah, again I think it would have went a lot better if you guys let us help and didn't just rush in. Seriously just seven of you. I mean it fits with the whole thirteen vs seven shtick, but since when do we have to play by some ancient rule. I mean you could have brought back-"

"Like I said its okay." the red-head interrupts. "In the end everyone came back home, safe and sound. Even though it took awhile for HIM to come back."

Yuffie reclines in her chair. "Well, I'm just glad we're all just still here chatting away like the past means nothing. By the way, how's Naminé doing? I mean she is coming for the upcoming Restoration Festival, right?"

"She will, you don't have to worry about that."

"Good, because I definitely want to face her again in the tournament." She says before pouting, "I still can't believe I lost to her after she had finished training with the Keyblade for a year before the first Restoration Festival. Since then, I've trained non-stop but I wasn't able to get a chance to meet her in the last two festivals." The Keyblade wielder giggle in response.

Mitakahira Town

As the moon and stars light the night sky, the city below is quiet. On top of one of the rooftops, a small, black anthropomorphic rabbit sits on the edge. He is wearing a blue jacket with silver linings over a yellow shirt and blue pants that also has silver linings along with a pair of blue and black shoes with white soles. The rabbit stares towards the ground below. "I got to admit, I'm surprised," he states. "I didn't think they would be in tune this fast after having living peaceful lives all this time." On a lower, wider rooftop is a dome of light nearly covering the floor and is about five stories tall when compared to said building.

#ONE FOR ALL#

Inside the dome, black clock-like symbols crawl the ceiling of said dome. Within it is a Drama King, releasing wisps of light from its core above. The wisps give birth to Amnesia. Unfortunately for them, two blurs rush by them. Flashes of steel from a spear and a sword cut through the batch before they all disappear. The comedy mask of the beast becomes pelted by multiple small explosive shells above. From there, multiple muskets hover in the air with a figure in the center. The firearms glow before dispersing as the figure drops to the ground to avoid the lasers from the mask's eyes.

After the lasers die out after impacting the barrier surrounding it, the mask is again hit again by a multitude of laser arrows. Standing on top of one its legs is another figure with two intricately designed firearms in their hands. The tips of the firearms glow before unleashing another torrent at the laughing face. The mask charges for another laser attack. The smaller figure jumps backwards in a backflip. The Drama King fires. Before the beams can hit the figure on its descent, it suddenly disappears after a click echoes throughout the dome. Another figure jumps from the floor, between the legs to the mask's right. The figure draws a gold and pink plated bow, gathering energy into a magical arrow. The figure gives a small smile before releasing the arrow. The arrow pierces through the mask; crumbling from the point of impact.

The figure, a girl having pink hair with a long pony tail, lands on the ground on one knee. She slowly rises to her feet. The girl is none other than Madoka, a resident of this city. She is currently wearing her Magical Girl outfit. She is joined by four others. Standing to her right is the bluenette, Sayaka and next to her is the red-head Kyoko. To Madoka's left is the black-haired girl, Homura, followed by the blonde, Mami. Like Madoka they are all in their Magical Girl outfits, the same ones they wear as their work uniforms at their café.

The Drama King raises the leg closest to them. The girls jump in different directions before it could bring its leg down on them. Sayaka and Kyoko jump onto another leg after landing. The enemy's tragedy mask slowly approaches above the joint of the leg the duo are on. Sayaka charges in with Kyoko behind with their respective smirks. Sayaka instantly closes the gap and unleashes a fury of attacks with her cutlass upon the mask. Kyoko jumps at that moment and joins Sayaka by delivering her own fast-paced thrusts of her spear. Sayaka jumps back just before Kyoko lands and the two jump in different directions. Behind their jumping figures, Homura and Mami have their weapons trained on the mask before unleashing a storm of lasers and exploding shells. Their projectiles soon begin to pierce through the mask and dealing damage to the core. Madoka jumps with the bowstring already pulled to full length; a magical arrow glows bright. The pinkette lets the arrow go flying; instantly becoming the size of a ballista bolt. The weapon pierces through the mask and the Drama King's core.

As the mask crumbles and disintegrates, the monster attempts to keeps its balance as the core is sparkling rapidly. The core explodes into tiny particles as the monster gives one last jerk before slumping onto the floor. White wisps cover all over the creature. The girls calmly regroup in the same lineup they were in earlier before it fades away completely.

"Sheesh," Kyoko smirks while placing the shaft of her spear behind her neck. "Talk about being a push over. If this is the strongest they got, they may as well go home."

"However," Mami turns to her with a concerned expression, "if what Oswald said is true, then their master if far stronger."

"Come on," Sayaka pipes up, "We already beat two of those things. And let's not forget we were able to destroy Walpurgisnacht five years ago!"

"But that's only because we had help," Homura says calmly while eyeing the bluenette. Madoka could only giggle in response.

"Yeah, yeah," Sayaka says with a dismissive wave, looking away with closed eyes. She turns to the pinkette, "So any chance you two are gonna take down the barrier soon?"

Madoka nods towards her before raising her left hand towards Homura. Homura meets it with her right; their fingers lining up against one another. A sphere of light emanates from them. The shifting clock symbols glow before disappearing. Almost immediately, the dome of light surrounding them fades within a second. It was a combination of Madoka casting a Barrier and was held in place by Homura's time magic. It hardly uses up any of their magical strength when cast but it requires the two to dispel it together in order for their group to see the night sky.

Madoka takes a few steps away from the group before turning around with a smile. "Great work, everyone" she says with a joyous vibe.

"I couldn't say that better myself," Oswald says as he walks up to the group. "I'm surprised you were all able to defeat it so easily."

Sayaka grins while placing her hands behind her head, "Just because we haven't been fighting for five years, doesn't mean we have been slacking off."

"Please," Kyoko wears a playful smirk, "you were tumbling around in that first battle."

"Oh yeah!" Sayaka responds with a smirk and a small vein in her head, "says the girl that couldn't land properly at that time as well."

Kyoko now has a small vein, still holding onto her smirk, "Hey, I was rusty as you were!"

"Alright, that's enough," Mami says as she steps in between the two. A sly smirk appears on her face, "Unless you two want to be stuck with doing your summer homework and not work next week."

Kyoko rubs the back of her neck, "Sheesh. Talk about a low blow. You know that I want to make as much money as possible."

"Tell me about it," Sayaka says as she puts her hands behind her head. "I still have to make up for that bet," she says as she stares daggers at the black-haired girl.

Homura shrugs, "Not my fault you didn't studied enough."

"Anyway," Kyoko places her hands on her hips, "At least this summer vacation won't be boring if we have to keep fighting those things."

"This is not a game, in case you forgotten," Oswald speaks with a serious expression. He raises a finger up to his face, "Just remember what I said about those Force Gems."

Madoka nods as she dismisses her transformation. The light surrounding condenses in front of her, revealing her normal clothes, which consist of a pink t-shirt and black skirt. The light falls into her extended hand; turning into a pink, egg-shaped jewel with an outer golden ring. The pinkette wears a half-smile, "The Force Gems tend to go dark when we use them to fight. But they eventually return back to their usual color as long as we don't use them later on."

Oswald nods, "Correct. As long as you them responsibly, you guys shouldn't be in any danger." The rabbit extends his arms in front of him, "And as I mentioned before, I have no idea what happens when they go completely black so best not to push yourselves."

Kyoko smirks, "What's there to worry about? I mean we didn't give up our souls this time around. So the worst that could happen is that we could lose our powers, right?"

The rabbit's eyes twitch in annoyance, "This is not a joke. It's important that you five need to use your new powers sparingly as possible."

"Yeah, yeah," Sayaka says with a dismissive wave, "We can always use those spells and techniques we bought from Mog. I still can't believe he left that outlet of his still there after all this time. Though I think someone is glad for an upgrade in their arsenal," she says with a smirk while eyeing the former time traveler with a side glance.

Homura closes her eyes, "We should still be cautious. After all, if our Force Gems go black, we may inadvertently use the darkness instead of our usual magic." She looks down at Oswald, "And its best not to play with darkness, correct?"

Oswald nods with a neutral expression with his arms crossed, "Well said." He looks at the five Magical Girls in front of him from left to right before looking in their general direction. "After fighting against the Forgotten for the past few nights, I think you all deserve a break. The five of you can simply relax and do your usual activities tomorrow while I'll take care of any Forgotten that come to this world.

Madoka gives a cheerful smile, "Thanks, Oswald!"

The rabbit shakes his left hand with a smile, "No thanks necessary. It's my way of showing my appreciation."

Sayaka crosses her arms, "At least someone else can pick up the slack. Unlike a certain alien, that kept driving us to fight all the time"

Homura sighs, bringing a hand to her temple. "Nice job, Sayaka, now I got nothing but bad memories coming back to me."

Mami looks to the floor with troubled eyes. "Speaking of bad memories," she says before turning to Kyoko. "I'm sorry."

Kyoko looks at her; raising an eyebrow, "For what?

Mami seems conflicted, looking down. She looks up to the red-head with sincere eyes, "For killing you."

"Eh, no big deal," she says with a dismissive wave. "You were only looking after…" her expression shifts to astonishment, "Wait, what!?"

Madoka looks up with a finger on her chin, "Actually, that does sound familiar."

The black-haired girl nods, "That occurred in one of the earlier timelines I ventured through."

"Yeah," the red-head rubs the back of her neck, "I'm just surprised that I remember something that didn't happen to me in this timeline!" She looks down with closed eyes, clutching her head with her left hand. "In fact, there a bunch of other things that have been popping in my head lately."

Oswald eyes blinks his eyes several times. "That's… an interesting development. So, you're having memories of another version of yourself?"

The bluenette tilts her head to the side, "I don't recall that, must have happened after I became a Witch. Come to think of it," she turns to Homura, "I think you mentioned something like that when you came clean about yourself."

The shield-bearer nods, "I did." She brings a hand to her chin with contemplative eyes, "But why would you two have those memories now? I remember Kairi stating that your memories may have been transferred from each time line I jumped through. But again why would they appear now after all this time?"

Oswald crosses his arms, "Must be from the Force Gems. After all, those powers did resonate from your heart. If that's the case, then that would mean…" he turns to the side, drifting off.

"What is it?" Madoka asks curiously.

"Oh nothing important," the rabbit shakes his head while shaking a dismissive hand. "Well it's starting to get late. So I suggest you ladies get some sleep." The rabbit smiles, "I'm sure you have some big plans tomorrow."

The red-head wears a cheesy grin, "You got that right." Kyoko glances at the bluenette, "My partner here is going to go all lovey-dovey."

Sayaka's face becomes completely red, "Aah! Don't say it like that!" she exclaims; waving her arms defensively. The other three Magical Girls laugh at Sayaka's expense.

At the start of a new day inside Mami's café, Magical Pastries, the blonde owner is currently in her 'Magical Maid' outfit. She's wiping off one of the tables before looking up at the clock above the door to her bakery's kitchen, indicating that it is a quarter to nine. Moments later, Kyoko, also in her 'uniform,' walks out of the same door before stretching her arms as she walks around the front display counter, containing several items Mami already made. "You didn't have to come in today," the owner says with a smile.

Kyoko shrugs, "How else am I going to make money?"

"Well, I hope you will be more attentive when school starts back up. I have heard you have fallen behind."

Kyoko gives off a frustrated sigh, "Sheesh, which one of those traitors mentioned that?"

Mami replies with a small smile while a raising up a finger, "Top secret. And like I said before, I won't allow you to work here anymore until you get back on track."

"Yeah, yeah, whatever 'Mom,'" the red-head said with disdain.

Mami giggles before going behind the counter. After making sure everything is in order, she wears a solemn smile, "About last night…"

Kyoko looks in her direction. The red-head sighs, "Like I was about to say, you were merely looking out for us. Still though, kinda creepy that we remember things from different timelines."

"I understand the feeling," Mami states as she looks back at the counter. "I have to keep sorting out my memories from the memories of my alternative counterparts." She looks up to the red-head with a small frown, "Speaking of which, do you remember becoming one?"

Kyoko raises an eyebrow before realization hits her. She looks to the ground with a depressed expression. "Actually, yeah. I remember that in one version of me, after Sayaka became a Witch, I was completely depressed." The red-head takes a seat in a nearby chair. "I wandered and wandered, hoping if there was some way to bring her back. But in the end," she says with sad smile, "I ended up following in her footsteps."

"I see," Mami replies with a pained expression.

"And you?" Kyoko asks with solemn eyes.

This time Mami turns to the side, "Well, one time I was completely alone, after we went separate ways. I never met Madoka or Sayaka, most likely because Homura was successful in keeping him away. But I was fighting that one Witch, the one that usually eats me up in just about almost every timeline. It was a long and bitter fight, but I managed to pull through." She places her right hand above her left elbow, "However, I used up so much magic, not only that I honestly thought I would die. I guess by that time, I must have been tired of being alone. So much, that I thought that if I would fight alone, then I would die alone. If that was the case, then maybe it is simply best that I just fade away. I could surmise that caused my Soul Gem to become so dark, that I was reborn…" she squeezes her left arm. "That is one instance that is burned into my heart."

"Yeah, I understand," Kyoko looks up to the café manager, "we became Witches at other timelines in different circumstances. Honestly, if it weren't for HER, we would still be in Homura's time loop. And if Homura were to become a Witch, then whatever fate we would have met in that timeline would've been final." Silence envelopes the store. The melancholy is broken by the sound of the clock above the kitchen door buzzing, getting the attention of the two young women. "Heh," Kyoko lets out with a smirk, "okay enough about mulling about our alternate memories. We only need to focus on making new memories here. And I don't think either of us wants a memory about our depressive mood affecting our customers."

Mami blinks before giggling, "Agreed. After all, we are free from that." She walks around the counter and towards the front door. "The only thing we should be doing now, is living each day with a smile."

"So what do think about this?" Madoka asks with a smile as she takes a roll of blue fabric from a shelf before unrolling it partly to reveal the pink and white flowers etched on it.

Homura glances at it with her left eye at the presented fabric. She looks forward, "I'm sure that one's fine," she states almost monotonously.

Madoka frowns, "Come on, Homura you said the same thing with the other two I showed you."

The two are currently inside a textile shop, shelves filled with bolts of colorful fabrics and designs. With a summer festival coming up in a few weeks, the two decided to get materials to make yukatas. Madoka simply hopes that the Forgotten would not attack during a joyous event. But right now, she's trying to get Homura's thoughts on what to make their yukatas made of.

Homura sighs before looking at the pinkette, "It doesn't matter what I think. If you want to make it out of that then I have no say in your decision." She looks back at the self in front of her.

The pinkette frowns. Seconds later her eyes widen as an idea strikes her. "Homura, is something bothering you?" She asks before placing the fabric back into the shelf.

"Hm," the former time-traveler responds as she looks towards Madoka, only to look back forward. "No, Nothing in particular."

"Oh no," Madoka says sternly, causing the other girl to look back with slightly widened eyes. "Don't think about handling it all by yourself. We're all in this together," Madoka placing her hands on her waist. Her stern stare softens, "Can't you at least let me know what's bothering you?"

Homura sighs with a smile before turning to her friend, "You're right. Sorry, old habits coming back and all that. I just don't know what Oswald says is true?"

"What are talking about?"

"Don't you find it strange? These Force Gems…" Homura reveals her gem, "Don't they remind you too much of the Soul Gems we used to have?"

Madoka looks at the gem, "I suppose, now that you mention it." She looks back at Homura with a bright smile, "But we don't have to worry about them as much. After all, we still have our souls."

"True, but why do they still darken when we use them? As mentioned last night, he did warn us about relying on them too much. But do they darken simply because we use them?"

"You're worried about if they go completely black," Madoka says with a solemn expression. Her face is quickly replaced with cheer, "Well as long as we don't have to face an entire army of those Forgotten I don't think we have to worry too much." As if on cue, a loud crash is heard; surprising them and other customers at the shop. The sound came from outside the store. The two look at each other before nodding. They run towards the shop's exit. As the store's automatic doors slide open the girls gasp at the sight before them. "W-What's going on!?"

#SCAENA FELIX#

The river cutting through the city shimmers from the sun above. On a hill overseeing the river, a couple is observing the view from her bench. Sayaka, wearing a deep blue sundress with quaver notes covering her skirt, sits to the right of her boyfriend, Kyousuke, who is wearing a black summer shirt and tan pants. Sayaka stares at the water before leaning towards her lover. In response, he wraps an arm around her shoulders and leans his head towards hers. "Kyousuke," Sayaka says gently with closed eyes.

"Hmm," Kyousuke responds.

"I could really wish, this moment would stay forever."

"Yeah, I would like that," Kyousuke says with a smile before letting out a slight chuckle. The action causes Sayaka to open her right eye in confusion. "Sorry, it's just, Hitomi said the same thing when I first took her here."

Sayaka's eyes widen before staring at the river "I see," the bluenette says with a sad smile. "I'm sorry it didn't work out between the two of you."

Kyousuke could only shake his head, "don't worry about it, I just…" he says before looking to the side as Sayaka looks at him. "I guess… I just don't want to disappoint you, like I did with Hitomi."

Sayaka makes a small gasp before shaking her head. "Silly," is all she could say as she stops and faces the grass below her. "Even though I don't want it to happen, but if we eventually stop seeing each other," she looks back up to him. "I want to treasure every moment with you as much as possible."

"Actually," the musician says with a gentle expression, "somehow I have a feeling we'll make it work," he turns to his girlfriend

"Yeah, I believe we can do it. Together," she breathes. The two stare at each other's eyes. Without realizing it, Kyosuke unwraps his arm away from her, only to gently grab her hand between them. Sayaka notices the gesture and looks down. Her smile deepens as she gently clenches her hand into his. She looks back up as her cheeks begin to blush. The two stare at each other before closing their eyes as they motion theirs heads towards the other. She can feel Kyosuke's breath upon her lips.

Kyosuke slowly opens his eyes before they spring wide open in alarm. "Look out!" he says as tackles her to the ground as something smashes into the bench they were on. The couple tumble down the grass for a bit before stopping halfway to the river. The two untangle themselves in a few seconds. The musician instantly got to his feet.

"Kyosuke!" she cries out in confusion. Her expression softens as she sees him in a defensive posture. From her angle she can't see the young man's apprehensive face. She looks to where he was looking at only to make a slight gasp. Floating on top of the now broken bench is a white, ghost-shaped creature. It turns around and she was able to identify it based on the mark on its head. "Forgotten!"

Kyosuke blinks in confusion. "Forgotten?" he asks as he looks at her. "How do you-" he cuts himself short as three more appear behind Sayaka. Sayaka, with instincts kicking in turns around and sees the enemy. Three more appear behind the musician, who caught his attention. The couple are now back to back. Kyosuke stares at these creatures; looking for a potential point of escape. Unfortunately, the two are surrounded.

A fact that Sayaka is aware of. She has yet to tell him about her experience five years ago and her recent forays against these monsters. She takes a deep breath. After exhaling the air, she is able to grasp the situation she's in. She can fight them and expose herself or let Kyosuke make the first move and get himself hurt or worse. If this was five years ago, she would have hesitated. But not now, she figured that eventually these monsters would put her in this position. "It's okay," she says calmly as she places a hand in the pocket of her skirt before pulling out her Force Gem. "I know it's the man's job to protect the woman, but, I'm afraid I have to steal that glory."

Kyosuke looks at her in confusion before noticing the jewel in her hand. Sayaka closes her eyes. After a few seconds, they snap open and the gem flashes. The brightness from the small object forces the young man to wince as he looks away. When the light died down, he looks back. His eyes indicate complete astonishment. Standing before him is the bluenette dressed in her work uniform from the café. But, there was something more than that. There was an air around her filled with nobility and grace. "I'll explain later," she says. "Don't worry, I'll cut us a path"

#AGMEN CLIENTUM#

She extends her right hand to her side. A cutlass appears in front of it before the bluenette grasps it. She shifts her stance slightly. After a few seconds she disappears in a blur. A strong wind blows against the Forgotten that faced her; twitching before being slashed and disappearing. She appears a few feet behind where they once stood. Kyosuke fully turns to her direction; still in amazement. The girl turns around. She raises her weapon in a flourish before swinging it down sharply. She shifts her position again. She disappears and the wind blows straight at Kyosuke, who braces himself. The Forgotten behind him fell in the same manner as their brethren as the magical swordswoman stands a few feet behind their former position. Kyosuke cannot help but feel nothing but awe towards his girlfriend after turning around. She looks back with a still expression. She cracks a small smile. "Sayaka…" the violinist breathes out. The Magical Girl uses her blinding speed to reach the top of the hill and the road upon it in seconds.

Sayaka turns to her right before swinging her blade. In response, more of the Forgotten appear. She takes a step back as she brandishes her weapon. In an instant, she charges into the middle of the pack; eliminating several of the enemies in her path. The bluenette summons a second cutlass and starts cutting them down one by one. After ten seconds, five Forgotten surrounding her remain. Two attack from behind. She mows them down with horizontal strikes. Another attacks. Though it knocks out one of the swords in her hands; she swiftly deals a fatal blow before it could retreat. The Magical Girl creates a sheath and places her remaining cutlass in it as the remaining two stand in front of her. In a flash, the swordswoman appears behind them in a crouch with her blade fully drawn; pointing to the sky in an angle. The enemies disappear in white mist. She spins her weapon before sheathing it and dismisses the weapon seconds later.

"Sayaka," Kyosuke breathes out from behind her. The Magical Girl turns to her boyfriend.

Nothing is said between them for a minute. Sayaka smiles, "It's a long story, in case you're wondering." Her boyfriend does not respond verbally. She looks to the side, "Be honest, are you scared?"

Kyosuke's snaps out of his stupor. The violinist gives a genuine smile, "No, you just surprised me is all." He walks to the Magical Girl. "If anything, I shouldn't be surprised." The young man stops in front of her. "After all," he brings a hand to her chin before he guides her face to look into his, "you are quite assertive in your own right."

"Thanks," she says with a slight tremble as a tear threatens to form in her left eye. She wipes the water off, "I really mean it." Sayaka drops her transformation and reverts back to her clothes. The two gaze into each other's eyes for a few seconds.

Sayaka's phone starts ringing and takes her a few seconds to collect herself and answer the call. The bluenette answers, "Yeah…What! They're there too, Madoka?!" she yells out. She gives off an annoyed sigh, "You got it, they just ruined the most romantic moment of my life. Sheesh, I thought that rabbit is…" Her expression becomes incredulous, "Wait, what!? Seriously, he's taking on three of those giant things?!" The expression fades from her face, "Uh huh.. yeah… Got it, I'll meet you there." She ends the call and puts her phone away. She looks up to her boyfriend, "Kyosuke…"

The young man can only smile in response, "Your friends are fighting those things too, aren't they?"

"Yeah," Sayaka says with a nod. She takes a step before looking to the side. The Magical Girl turns to the violinist with a smile. "Hey when this is over; I'll be sure to tell you the story. The whole story."

Kyosuke's smile deepens, yet his eyes are filled with concern, "Just be careful." Sayaka nods her head for a few seconds. After looking back up at him, she walks up to him. The two hold each other's gaze. Instantly, the blunette pecks him on the cheek before jumping back a few steps. She turns around; transforming back into her Magical Girl clothes. She takes a step back; preparing to sprint. The next moment, she disappears leaving a gale of dust in her wake. "Sayaka…" is all the young man can say as he tenderly touches where he was kissed.

Ten Amnesia charge through an empty street within the city. Beams of light impact several of them head on. Madoka with her golden bow and Homura with her arrow gun continue firing at the floating enemies; which move around in random patterns to avoid their assault. Two more disappear from successful shots before the Forgotten are upon them. Madoka raises a hand, "Reflect!" she shouts creating a dome of light; repelling the enemies. The spell flashes before disappearing and bursts of light surround the duo; eliminating the rest of the enemies.

Ten more Amnesia appeared behind the Magical Girls along with a new variance of Forgotten. This new foe, Sheltered, consists of an orb with the same white color scheme and the Forgotten insignia surrounded by four, pentagonal shields, which are twice the main body's size. Homura is the first to notice them and the arrowhead on her weapon glows silver before firing. The streak of silver hits the Sheltered's front shield. Only to explode with inverted light; covering all the enemies. After the inverted light disappears; the Forgotten stood motionless. Madoka takes this chance and gathers fiery energy into her bow and unleashes a Firaga-based spell. It impacted an Amnesia in the front row and the resulting explosion covers the enemies. The smoke fades to show the Forgotten unscathed but still frozen in time. Two seconds later all but the Sheltered disappear. Instead it recoils from the spell it took. The shields glow before spinning around the main body. The white enemy charges at them. The girls jump straight up. Homura takes aim and delivers the finishing blow to the remaining Forgotten. The Magical girls land on the ground seconds later.

After seeing that no more of the enemies are appearing; they dismissed their weapons. Madoka looks at Homura, "How are you holding up?"

"I'm alright," the time specialist responds. "And you,"

"Same here," she says before looking at the direction the second group appeared from. Beyond that point the girls can barely see a Drama King in the distance. The pinkette bring a closed hand to her chest, "I hope Oswald's okay."

"I think he can handle himself," Homura states, looking at the distant enemy. "Besides, it's foolish for only the two of us to face that thing, let alone three of them." She turns to her friend, "Also, I think he was more worried about pushing ourselves and our Force Gems to their limits."

"You're right," Madoka says solemnly. She closes her eyes before opening them, revealing the determination in them. "We need to find the others. Then we can come back here and help Oswald."

"Given the circumstances that is our best choice of action," Homura answers with a nod. The two ran down the street; away from the giant Forgotten behind them.

In front of the Magical Pastries café, Kyoko and Mami are surrounded by four Sheltered. Two of the Forgotten charge at them with their spinning shields. Mami jumps high as Kyoko seemingly disappears. The blond fires as soon as the one attacking her is directly below her; eliminating it. Kyoko appears above her target and skewers through the memory-based monster. Kyoko turns her attention to one of the remaining ones with a thrust. Her target's shields converge on the main body; blocking her attack. Before she can recover from her failed attempt; the shield she struck slams into her.

Mami on the other hand fires three muskets at the other remaining Forgotten. This one too has shifted to a defensive tactic; blocking her shots. Mami prepares herself for her target's next move. She notices the main body trembling. Seconds later, all four of its shields thrust out in different directions. Mami spins to the right; barely dodging the shield at her. In that split second afterwards, she takes the opportunity to fire several shots at the vulnerable enemy; killing it. She turns to the remaining enemy just in time to see Kyoko finishing it off.

Five more Amnesia appeared along with three Sheltered. "Where are they all coming from?!" Kyoko demands as the two Magical Girls stand ready. Before either side can move; a flash of blue races through the Forgotten. Skidding onto the pavement, Sayaka stops in front of the two with her sword drawn. The Amnesia became wisps and the Sheltered recoiling in pain. Sayaka points her sword at the center. Kyoko twirls her spear in her left hand before bringing it behind her as an open palm faces at them. Mami positions a musket at the enemies as well. At the same time, Sayaka casts a Blizzard spell from her sword while Kyoko and Mami lets out a Fire spell from their hand and musket respectively. The spells eliminated the Forgotten.

Suddenly twenty Amnesia type Forgotten surround them. The Magical Girls takes a step back to each other as they face the enemies. Black heels touch the ground next to them. The three take notice of the newcomer. Homura flips her hair to the side as the enemies are eliminated by a rain of energy arrows. Only five Forgotten remaining. Touching down next to Homura is the pinkette. She raises a hand; letting loose an electrical spark with a flick of the wrist. In response, five bolts of lightning descend; shocking the Forgotten before being eliminated.

After a few seconds, the Magical Girls scan their surroundings; seeing no further signs of the enemy. The bluenette sighs with a smile before turning to the two who arrived after her, "Talk about making a flashy entrance at the last moment."

Kyoko dismisses her weapon as she turns to Sayaka, "You did the same thing when you arrived!"

"You got me there," Sayaka smiles embarrassingly scratching her cheek.

Mami looks to the sky, "I'm just surprised that so many appeared. Especially in the day time, too."

Homura turns to the three, "Unfortunately, it's not over yet. Three of those giant ones have appeared in the center of the city."

Madoka nods in confirmation, "Oswald is fighting them right now. We better help him."

Kyoko can smirk, "Well, let's get going and wipe them out!"

"There's no need to worry," a hollow female voice echoes. The girls look around. "Your little friend has done well and only one remains. But I'm afraid its time to put an end to this show."

"Who are you?!" Madoka demands as she glares at the sky.

#GRADUS PROHIBITUS#

Ten feet away from them, light pierces through the space above the ground. After giving of one final flash, in its place is a figure wrapped in a white cloak; the hood covering the figure's head. The Magical Girls shift in apprehension to the figure's appearance. The figure looks up and the girls can see in the hood's shadow; a mask covering their entire face with the black symbol of the Forgotten etched upon it.

Mami's eyes narrow slightly, "Be careful, I sense that she's very powerful."

Madoka takes a few steps towards the white cloaked figure. "Judging from the symbol on your mask. You're their leader, aren't you?"

"You are correct," the figure answers with the same feminine voice from earlier. "I am impressed that you managed to defeat so many Forgotten in such a short amount of time. However, I'm afraid that I have to ask all of you to disappear."

Madoka's eyes narrow in response to the threat. "I don't know exactly what it is you want. But I'm giving you only one warning." The pinkette squares her feet. "Leave us now, if not you will have to face us," she boldly states while moving her arms. The Magical Girl strikes a pose with her right arm pumped to her waist and her left arm stretched out to the sky with the palm facing up. "The Holy Quintet!"

Kyoko looks at her with unimpressed eyes, "You've been waiting to say that for some time haven't you." Madoka sheepishly giggles after turning to the red-head.

However, the cloaked female also giggles with an ominous vibe making the Magical Girls wary. "Such confidence. I wonder will it be enough to stop us?"

Sayaka takes a step forward, "Why don't you come over here and find out?"

"I wouldn't mind that, actually. Unfortunately, all of you seem to be somewhat weary with all of your recent battles. And to think, that you would all gather here. Just as I wanted."

Homura glares at the mysterious girl, "And what is it you want with us?"

The figure ominously giggles, "Your despair…"

The Magical Girls' bodies tense at those words. "Yes… I will give you…" the cloaked girl outstretches her arms before crossing her wrists in front of her. The girls prepare themselves for that the mysterious intruder has in mind. "The same despair…" she trails off before swinging her arms out. A sudden force pins the Magical Girls to the ground. "And now the time has come," the cloaked girl brings the palms of her outstretched arms to face the girls. Light emanates from cracks below the vulnerable girls. The mysterious one clasps her hand together, in front of her chest, "For you to leave the stage." The ground crumbles and the young women start to fall through the crevice of light; screaming for their lives. The hole of light disappears and the ground reverts to normal. "Now then, all that is left is…" she drifts off as a distant light catches her attention. In the distance she can see a small light. But what catches her attention is the black rabbit floating towards it. "Fleeing again, Oswald…" she says before the rabbit disappear into the light which disappears. "No matter. This world is now part of our ever-growing domain," the female giggles before disappearing into a gate below her.

Radiant Garden

*RADIANT GARDEN (BIRTH BY SLEEP)*

The Fountain Court, as the name implies is laid out with fountains on several floors. The waters falling from the high spouts on the highest level forms into three waterfalls before going into a pool on the ground just below the walkways and into several channels leading the water beyond the area. On a ledge to the left of the main fountains, Kairi hums a tune to herself with closed eyes. She ends her tune as she opens her blue eyes; looking up to the magenta sky. A female voice calls out her name; prompting the woman to turn her head around.

Kairi gives a big smile, "Xion." Walking up to her is a black, short-haired woman wearing a black mini-dress over a red halter top. She wears knee high boots. She also sports red, fingerless gloves and a silver bracelet with a black gem on her left wrist. Xion wears a sunny smile along with her blue eyes. She sits down to the left of the red-head. "How long have you been here?" asked the red-head.

"Just arrived actually," the black-haired woman responds. "I just came back from touring Monsters, Inc."

"What did you look like?" Kairi asks enthusiastically.

Xion hums with a finger under her chin as she looks up. She turns to the red-head, "You'll have to come with me next time."

"That's not fair," Kairi says with a smile as she pushes Xion slightly. "I already told you what I turned into when I went there."

"That's because you were excited about telling Sora regarding your transformation," pushes back with the same force; wearing a smile of her own. "Speaking of Sora, how is he doing?"

"Oh, he left here a few days ago," the red-head looks to the sky, "he was on his way to Disney Town."

"Weren't we there for the Dream Festival a month ago?" Xion asks with a raised eyebrow; still holding her smile

"Oh, you know Sora. Still acts as a kid every now and then. Especially when he wants to hang out with Donald and Goofy," the women laugh.

The women's laughter subsides. "By the way," Xion pipes up, "how long have you been here?"

The red-head responds, "You mean here at this very spot, or here as in this world?"

"What do you think?" the black-haired girl sarcastically replies.

Kairi lets out a chuckle; shrugging a little. "About a month now."

"Wow," surprise evident in Xion's voice, "you and Sora were here that long?"

"Nope, he went with Riku back home first for a few days then came here," the red-head says with a smile. Her smile grew with fondness, "It's been a while since it was me and him together."

A playful smirk graces Xion's face, "Someone certainly had a good time alone with their childhood friend."

"Hey, don't you get any funny ideas," she responds with a slight blush as she pushes Xion away. "We just happen to spend a lot of time together."

"Sure~" the black-haired woman in not convinced. "So, when are you two going to finally tie the knot?"

"Xion!" Kairi exclaims with a slight glare and blush.

"Okay, okay," Xion says an apologetic smile; waving her left hand. "By the way," concern etches on her face, "I found something outside the city."

"What is it?" Kairi asks curiously.

"Well…" the former Organization member trails off.

Oswald's Report 17

Magical Girls were once cursed beings. Surrendering their souls in exchange for a wish. And once they go down this road, there are only two endings, death or become monstrous Witches.

Supposedly, they should no longer exist, due to the actions of my fellow Keyblade wielders; Riku and Kairi. Together, alongside with a small group of Magical Girls, were they able to free that world from the Witches. Kairi, a Princess of Heart, then used her powers to help free their souls and return them to their bodies.

During my research, I have cultivated the Force Gems. I had created them for a specific purpose. But when I stumbled upon this world by accident and met the five girls that were liberated from their roles as Magical Girls, the Force Gems I've been carrying reacted to them.

Considering the looming threat that will soon affect this world as many others, I think it will be a good idea to put these Force Gems to use. I told them of the danger that is coming. I offered them a chance to protect their world. With these Force Gems, they can regain their lost powers and protect their world.

They were highly suspicious of my offer, and I couldn't blame them due to their experience. I asked them to tell me of any questions they have in their hearts. Among them is the placement of their souls. My response is the truth; the Force Gems have no need to take a person's soul. The Force Gems function by drawing in the light or darkness in a person's heart.

Despite my answers, they still had their doubts. To my surprise, the girl called Madoka is willing to put her life on the line once more. Her reasons to do so is based on one factor; the will of her heart. Without hesitation, she took one of the Force Gems and concentrated. The reaction is instantaneous, the Force Gem completely changes shape and is transformed into a pink jewel. I immediately asked how she felt and if she was in any pain.

She answers that she felt a powerful surge of energy sprouting from her entire being. She felt no pain and didn't feel that anything was forcefully taken from her. I breathed a sigh of relief, seeing that the Force Gems did not take anything important from her.

Just to be sure of my hypothesis, I requested to take the gem. The test is to see if there are any adverse effects if she is to stray too far from the gem. After I returned, the others confirmed for me that Madoka had not once been through any trauma. This must have motivated them, for the others immediately took the remaining Force Gems and awakened them for a reason.

Sayaka wants to protect her boyfriend.

Homura wants to help and protect Madoka.

Mami wants to protect the people of this world.

Kyoko wants to fight alongside with her friends.

No sooner did they activate them that the Forgotten begin to invade. I will keep an eye on these reborn Magical Girls and watch over them until the time comes for me to proceed with my mission.

AUTHOR'S NOTE: That's another chapter down. Now what do you suppose could have happened to the Holy Quintet?

As I mentioned in my earlier note I have a KHIII theory that I would like to share. Noted is has slight spoilers, so I placed it after the preview.

Unfortunately I have been lazy with drawing lately. I may just focus on writing the story, but I'll do more drawings, just may come out at a slower pace. Hopefully my descriptions are enough.

Also let me know on how this story is going and anything that seems off.

Next chapter won't be around for another two to four months. Until next time.

Preview

Does anyone one know where we are?

We got uninvited guests.

How did you get here?

RESTORATION COMMITEE

The King was here!?

Don't worry, she's in good hands.

KEYBLADE

Next Chapter

TIME TO HIT THE ROAD

AUTHOR'S NOTE: Here is that theory I kept mentioning. Again has slight spoilers.

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IN KH3 I noticed something regarding the Keyblade War. By the time Sora got to Xehanort, the latter claims 9 keys were forged. But according to my math, there should have been 8. After the first two rounds with Riku and Mickey, we got 5. With the BBS trio, two more were created. But by the end of the battle with Saix/Isa, only one key was produced since Xion came to the light and no black plume was produced before all that.

My theory is that the ninth key may have to do with Kairi fighting either Demyx or Vexen, since they were "benched," after she was taken by Xemnas. That's a possible dlc material there along with her training. Granted she would have no chance against Xemnas, but she may be a match to the other two. Perhaps to the point she was pushed to her absolute limit and collapsed and at the end of that we get that ninth key. At that point it was easy for Master Xehanort to do what he did.

What are your thoughts on this?