Kingdom Hearts: The 13th Requiem [PG-13/Not Accepting]

[Frybread002]

[spoiler=A Brief Dream before Awaking Anew]

Hey Yumi…are you sure you’re not mad anymore?

 

Huh? Why would I be?

 

I know I wasn’t around when your cousin was taken by the enemy and our brother-in-law was branded by as a traitor; I just assumed you were mad when you walked ou – Mmh!?

Why do you always kiss me when I don’t expect it?

 

Because that’s the only way to get you to shut up.

[/spoiler]

 

For what started as another peaceful dream, became another routine nightmare for Yasu Go; Of course, being a Nobody just meant that you weren’t capable of actually getting scared, is just meant you get more questions than answers from when you do wake up.

 

In Yasu’s case, feeling disorientated, groggy, dazed and confused after regaining consciences from a near-fatal collapse of a severe-lapse of dehydration in a scorching hot desert was considered a bit ‘normal.’

 

Another dream, another mystery, just means I had another nightmare Yasu thought, as he found himself waking up on a cold floor; Sitting forward with a raised knee, Yasu rested his arm behind him and slowly propped himself to a stand – albeit weak and barely able to stand.

 

Looking around to gain his bearings, Yasu Go looked to his right and notice a Samurai Nobody, while to his left, a huge looking Centaur with some menacing looking features towered above his meek body; Undeterred by a huge looking bull, the insatiable need for water was screaming throughout his body, so Yasu Go didn’t feel like he was in harm’s way.

 

Before passing out on the desert, Yasu Go’s only goal was to make it towards the center of the desert and hopefully find something that he could use…but now, he was stuck in a strange, new place where the only thing he could do was just stare at the huge Centaur; it was clear that the Centaur was waiting for something to happen and that the likely for anything else to occur was doubtful. Not sure what to do, Yasu Go decided to sit back down on the cold floor and wait as well – it became clear to Yasu almost immediately that he was not ready to speak yet, until something important urged him to use his voice.

[Phantom Roxas]

As the Gigas Dark Thorns terrorized Radiant Garden, Merlin sent away however many people he could find. However, three Possessors rushed past the wizard-turned-dragon, speeding towards the Armored Torso and Hammerleg. The Possessors performed their routine of sticking onto their target, but now the floating pieces of armor were joined by a second Hammerleg and two clawed gauntlets, giving the armor as complete of an appearance as it could. The suit gained the black and purple coloration and pounced at Merlin.

Meanwhile, the Force Razer swung one of its bladed arms, and where the swirling mass it used as a weapon struck the air, a wave of energy rang through it, increasing the gravitational force around Sugar Momma. Not waiting to let its opponent fully comprehend what had happened to her, the Force Razer dragged its blades across the ground, forcing the earth to begin to collapse in on itself. As it closed in on the old woman, the Heartless swung both blades upwards.

[hr]
Without another word, Jumpsuit opened a Corridor of Darkness, then gestured to Cal and Strider to follow him inside. The Corridor opened before Nerhyx and a female Nobody, and Jumpsuit bowed in a ninety degree angle, holding his arms out as he introduced Cal and Strider

"Why Sir Nerhyx, is this lovely lady a new member of our Organization? Well allow me to present to you another addition to the group!" It then occurred to him that he did not actually know the name of the Nobody or his magnificent puppet. A bad introduction, if Jumpsuit had to say so himself.

[hr]
"'Her'? So, is there a girl who truly knows the losses that Kreix and I have suffered?" A waitress walked by, and Xelo held up his hand. "Miss, may I have some clam chowder?" The waitress nodded, and Xelo sat in silence, waiting for his soup. When it had arrived, Xelo took a sip, then leaned back in his chair. "So this… Nova Dragon. What is it? Last I heard from Kreix, someone else had their own agenda in mind, and I bet he's already taken him down by now. I'm okay with helping you, but I don't think Kreix would be willing to waste time on something he doesn't feel like being a part of."

[hr]
"At last, you're awake I see," Lexyk said to Yasu. Lexyk snapped his fingers, and a dancer appeared, holding a glass of water. "I chose to let you wake up on your own." The Dancer stepped down to give Lexyk the water, but stopped as Lexyk continue. "No. If you can stand, take the drink yourself. I'd rather not be so demanding, but I have brought you here so that you may meet the Superior. I doubt he'd be impressed if I nursed you back to help. He'd think you helpless, no doubt, and you would be cast out, or turned into a Dusk. But tell me, what is your name?"

[Love of Ghibli]

Nerhyx was about to bid farewell to this lovely new Nobody when a grunt of sorts revealed himself and brought along another new group of Nobodies. This time it was a pair of individuals. Nerhyx didn't have any immediate first impressions about the new Nobodies but it was his duty as a gentlemen to act right and be noble towards the noobs. 

 

"So you don't know their names. Hmm you should be enrolled in some of finishing school. Nevertheless this fair maiden is Xetatyl the newest member of our organization and I should commend you on scouting two more members. Even though you know nothing about them." Nerhyx motions his gaze towards the two new nobodies now in his line of sight. " Come have a seat." Gentlemen pull up chairs behind the two new young nobodies.  "Welcome to the organization, my name is Nerhyx and I guess for the time being, until you are greeted by the superior, I will be your guide to the organization. So what can I help you two young men with? Though I guess first we should learn your names. So what are you names?"

[Barian Warlord]

As the Phantom and Kreix launched their spells Xemyrom dodged the wisp but fired a Firaga at the  Blizzaga and as the two spells hit the explosion knocked away the chains then Xemyrom turned to the Phntom as it tried to grab him and used his hightened speel from the nine Attack Hastes to get under it and then preformed a high power slicing move to slash both the orb and Heartless in two. Do to the smoke from the explosion of the two Spells Kreix was probably unable to see what happened to his Heart when the Phantom was defeated, as the smoke cleared Xemyrom looked over to Kreix.

"Now you asked why you should care about my plans well I'll tell you if I succeed not only will you have your family back and original form restored but you will live in a world were you won't have to worry about heartless attacks. I think that is a good reason for you to join me."

[Phantom Roxas]

As the Phantom evaporated into darkness, the number above Xemyrom broke apart, removing the counter. Kreix snarled and commanded his flail to disappear. "Well, a deal's a deal. A place to live in peace would be delightful, but I'd like to keep my powers. You never know when they might come in handy. Besides, I can't imagine Alice and Beatrice would be happy with what I've been doing. Of course, I wouldn't mind not telling them that, but that could easily change the moment I regain my heart."

[hr]
As Doxfer's lances were just about to pierce Zack, the Paladin felt his arms being pulled back. "What the-?" Doxfer looked around, seeing pitch black arms holding onto him. They had no body, but they were strong enough to keep pulling Doxfer away from Zack. The Paladin clumsily moved his hooves to match with the arms pulling on him. "Hey, let me go!" A blue orb appeared in front of him, with two beady yellow eyes staring at him. "Wait… The Phantom? Hah, don't tell me you went and got yourself killed, did you?" One of the arms slapped Doxfer across his scar. Doxfer looked back at Zack, then back to the blue orb. "Ugh, Kreix wants me back already, doesn't he? Whatever. All the small fries went and got themselves killed anyway. The Superior isn't going to like that." He turned to Zack, returning both of his arms to normal as he pointed to the scar across his face. "Hey, kid, don't think I'm going to let you get away with this. I got business that needs to be taken care of, so how about the next time we fight, you don't chicken out on me. This time, the only reason you get to live is because you just got really damn lucky today. Next time, I'll be the lucky one." Doxfer and the Phantom vanished in a Corridor, leaving Zack all by himself.

At Oogie's Manor, Spiky Spider watched the two leave and considered feasting upon the lone boy. Deciding to take its business elsewhere, the Heartless vanished, searching for a more populated world.

[Merci]

...Let's do this.

 

Viola held out the Star Shard, and Balthazar placed his hand on in alongside her three fellow apprentices and the pink-haired newcomer-warrior. Their minds as one, they concentrated on the two words Traverse Town, and the shard reacted in response. With an intensifying radiation of light from it, it burst out and all six heroes were engulfed into a portal that sent them off towards their designated world. That is, Traverse Town.

 

With this, a new journey had begun. This wasn't the last time they would end up traveling across worlds, and wherever this thing brought them, it had certainly restarted an age-old quest that circled around the Keyblade. One that would bring them to blows with many enemies, and one that would ultimately lead to the enigma forever known as Kingdom Hearts.

 

...

 

Upon opening their eyes, they would find themselves in a new place, utterly unknown and rather dark for a town. Whether James was here or not, they had no way of knowing. But the Grimhold was here for sure, as was the Emperor's Heartless...wherever they were. It might take days to find them.

[Frybread002]

To a lot of people, many believe that hard-work is the key fundamental in achieving success. However, only a hand few of people could tell you that dedication is also mandatory to mandate. Of course, only a much more smaller band of individuals can realize that having heart is a key virtue for the most demanding aspect of any job…Unfortunately, it is near impossible to find a person who knows that having all three principles is the universal law for success, much less knowing a person who has all three required traits.

 

To this very few individuals who had this desired trait, preaching it was extremely easy, but actuating living it was another; Yasu Go looked up towards the monstrous Centaur that towered over him and was surprised to hear it speak. “Stand and take the drink itself” it ordered Yasu to do, as the Dancer Nobody appeared with a glass of water before him.

 

Using what remained of his strength, Yasu Go stood upon shaky legs and reached for the glass of water and consumed it with a gluttony-like appetite. Finishing the glass in less than five seconds, the sensation of cool-water overwhelmed Yasu’s senses and the feeling of elation took root: gazing up towards the ceiling, the glass accidentally slipped from his grasp and shattered upon the floor.

 

The sound of breaking glass brought Yasu Go back to reality when he caught the last four words from the Centaur: “What is your name?”

 

Wiping the water-droplets away from his mouth, Yasu turned to face the Centaur and looked him straight in the eye; in the brief existence that Yasu Go experienced in the desert, there was no real reason to utter a single word before - as the words Yasu Go before this point time, had only needed to be hear by himself. However, the stoic resolve of the Centaur proved to be most unsettling with Yasu Go when he replied “Go, my name is Yasu Go.”

[Phantom Roxas]

The Star Shard whisked Balthazar, his four apprentices, and Lightning off throughout the cosmos. The group stood in a circle, but they were moving forward. "We must all hold onto the Star Shard as long as we in traveling between worlds. If we don't, we'll all be sent in different directions." As they continued on their path, the six of them could see stars fly past, and the faint image of worlds rushed by. However, it was not as the apprentices, especially Shuren, expected it. He could see a town, encased in a bubble. He saw the sky, and a moon in the clouds. "This is not how expected the solar system to look like."

"Time and space are much different than what you learned in school. What the Star Shard does keep is move us to a different dimension, one that exists on the other side of the reality you knew. It's why no one ever told you about these others world; they just didn't have the means to know about them."

Shuren sighed, trying to make sense of it. As they approached the bubble, all everyone could see was a bright light. When it was gone, they found themselves in the middle of a district. Balthazar closed two large doors behind him and stood beside his companions.

"Welcome to Traverse Town."

[hr]
The Dancer shook its head as the young man dropped the glass on the floor. Lexyk waved at the Dancer, and she walked away, but not before stroking her hand across Lexyk's arm. When the Paladin was once again alone with the boy, the fledgling Nobody answered with the name of Yasu Go.

"A curious name," Lexyk replied. "But it matters not. You are not the person you once were. In fact, it can hardly be said that you're even a person anymore. You are a Nobody. You are now someone else, and so you must be given a new name."

[Super Chaos Sonic]

[url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pTR-wmAiIdc]KH 3D OST ~ Traverse Town[/url]

 

This was where the shard sent them...Traverse Town. To Trevor, this place looked like one of the old historical towns that he had read during classes. "A-Amazing..." he said, as he looked in his hands. Sure enough, the Keyblade he had obtained was no longer in his hands. Normally if something disappeared off his person, Trevor would've freaked out...but this time he didn't. "Balthazar...the Keyblade..." he asked, as he turned to face the man...no...for the time that these few have been together, Balthazar had been a mentor. "Does the Keyblade just disappear whenever danger isn't present?"

 

[hr]

 

[url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-3hAukDiSjA]TNBC OST ~ In the Forest (At 1:17)[/url]

 

Zack couldn't believe this happened...Doxfer left...and he was alive. He fell to his knees, exhausted as he dropped his scythe beside him, exhaling slightly. T-That isn't the last I've seen of him... he thought with a sigh. He closed his eyes, to try and relax...but it was cut a tad be short.

 

Bark bark!

 

"Over here Zero? Alright lead the way!"

 

The young skeleton quickly looked behind him and saw Zero now floating all around him, nuzzling him and barking. "Z-Zero...hey boy...what are you-" he didn't continue, as he got his answer. Heading his way was Jack, who seemed concerned.

 

"Zack? Are you alright? Zero told me everything, well mostly anyway. Couldn't understand a few things here and there."

 

"I'm fine dad...just let's go back home for now. I need some rest..." Zack simply said, as the trio headed for home. He knew this wasn't over, that they would return in stronger numbers...and HE'D be back again.

[Nexev]

As the collossol power overwhelmed Sugar Moma she resisted the new gravitational weight and brought up her cane to block the heartless attacks. After parrying the blow she pushed the Force Razer, sending it flying, Sugar Momma quickly ran after him, using her cane to deliver a flurry of blows to the heartless before it finished its journey, destination: Wall.

 

Unamused the Force razer quickly sprang back into action, intending to tear Suga Momma limb from limb.

 

 

This went on for awhile the two titans exchanging blows until the battered body of the Force Razer could fight no longer. Finally collapsing, it vanished into darkness, its conglomartion of hearts rising to the heavens to be claimed by darkness once more.

 

[hr]

 

"Man you are a stand up guy Jumpsuit, honester then the beloved presidents I never met." Strider said, looking at the babe who by the way may or may not have been smokin. "Yo Cal hand here." Wordlessly Cal held out his hand for Jumpsuit to high five. "My name is Strider, call me stri, over here is my puppet i guess. His name is Cal, it's a shame but ever since I became a weird emo zombie I can't move my hands and legs and stuff so I got to get the magic puppet here to do the dirty work. Don't mind him though sure it's creepy but hes a hit at parties."

 

[hr]

Justice sighed "Please do not get me started on a discussion of that dude. Just let it be known that he is a rather unsavory individual who I would like to see dead. I suppose I can aid you on your task so long as I am promised eventual aid on mine."

 

[hr]

Noticing the sudden apperance of the asshole who stabbed him the last time, Emperor quietly headed to the bathroom of the cafe.

[Love of Ghibli]

Nerhyx hid the mental eyebrow raise when the seemingly motionless one started to speak and if he showed emotions he would be more inquisitive about the young lads explanation. It was somewhat refreshing to see a person with such high spirits. It did go to prove that Nobodies not having emotion my be somewhat of a myth. He wanted to extend congratulations to Mr. Strider and his lifeless puppet Cal.

"Well in loo of the superior I will welcome you to the Organization. To be honest I don't think you'll find the members the most welcoming group, but we are hear in case you have any questions nonetheless."

Nerhyx looked down at the book for a second as he was about to say goodbye when Strider's introduction replayed in his head. A motionless body played that had to be moved by others. "Oh Cal is a puppet you say?" Nerhyx turned his gaze to the more quiet nobody Cal. "Interesting." Nerhyx entertained the notion that this Cal character was living through his life size doll. While that might not say much about his character it does make this series of characters more colorful and you never know. The superior may like a puppet show. "Well regardless of the case if you have any questions about your current state of being feel free to ask me. I will be of assistance if I can. If you do not feel free to find yourself an open and unused room and make yourself at home. I hope to introduce you and our other recent addition later to the superior. I am sure he will be elated to see other rally along his cause."

[Barian Warlord]

Xemyron listened to Kriex's comments and by the end of it he was a little surprised Kriex had done all this for a purpose and when the means of accomplishing it is in front of him he turns away.

"Who said you'd lose your powers when your a Somebody again? As far as I know you'll keep all your abilities but still you want to bring your loved ones back from the darkness and I'm giving you the opportunity to do that, you may be able to create Kingdom Hearts but history has shown that that is not enough to control it one must have a heart to control the power of the heart, you've shown your willing to do anything to accomplish your goals so why not listen to my advice because in the end if my goals are accomplished then so will yours."

[Phantom Roxas]

"The Keyblade has a mind of its own, but I'm sure it will answer you when you wish to call for it." Balthazar caught a glimpse of a figure running away as soon as he saw the sorcerer. "The Heartless we're looking for is this way!" Balthazar ran to the café, heading towards the bathroom door. The people at the café stared at Balthazar making a ruckus, but the sorcerer fired an energy bolt, knocking the door down.

[hr]
Merlin fell down, too weak to maintain his dragon form. The Possessed Armor and the three Gigas Dark Thorns loomed over the wizard, but once the saw the hearts ascending into the sky, they faded away. Merlin stood up looking for other people, but could only find Sugar Momma. "Why do you stay? The Heartless have ruined this place, and yet you could fight them back. But they're gone know, so what will you do?"

[hr]
The Phantom had recovered its full form, now tossing Doxfer onto the floor. "What the hell, man? Look, Kreix wants to talk with me, right?"

The Phantom waited a few moments, before it finally spoke. "I said no such thing. That was a mistake, on your part." The voice spoke in a echo of a hiss, and Doxfer shuttered to hear the cold sound it the Phantom.

"Oh now you feel like talking, you floating bedsheet. Look, I had that kid on the ropes! Why the hell did you bring me here?"

"Do not delude yourself. The boy would have surely defeated you had your battle continued for much longer."

"Please, you don't know that."

"Give word to the rest of the Organization that my other half shall take longer than we expected. The young Xemyrom could be a more powerful foe than we anticipated."

"What, that brat kicked your… what, coattail?"

"As if I am the only one who is guilty of underestimating the might of the young."

"…Fine, I'll go talk to Lexyk and the rest."

"See to it that you do, mare."

Doxfer glared at the Phantom for a moment before setting off. The Phantom glided on its own path before vanishing into a darkness once again.

[hr]
"Have it your way, then." Xelo consumed the last of the meal, then dropped ten munny onto the table. He stood up from his seat, then put his hands in his pocket. "I can't speak for the Superior on something like that, but if it means we'll have your cooperation, I shall give you whatever aid you need. Follow me, and I shall bring you to the castle."

[hr]
Kreix clenched his fists. "If that is indeed true then… Fine, do whatever you will." Kreix could feel the world shifting beneath him, and the sky began to spin. Kreix fell to his knees, but laughed at Xemyrom. "Heh, well this is embarrassing. Never really had my curse activate with someone stranded inside my time bubbles. Let's see…" A blue aura covered both Kreix and Xemyrom. "There now. The most I can do will be to ensure that we don't move forward too much farther into the future. Let's see how far it takes us, shall we?" The blue aura began to glow brightly until it flashed around the two of them, and suddenly the place where Kreix and Xemyrom once stood was once again empty.

[Nexev]

The Emperor stared at Balthazar while looking through the whole where the door used to be. "I suppose you are here for the grimhold. Very well then, I gain little fighting here." The Emperor tosses the Grimhold on the floor, it bouncing slightly with a clang before landing upright on the rebound. "Now then if you seek slaughter you will have to move to third district, I have no need of destroying first.district." The Emperor seems to be glaring at Ryan.

 

[hr]

 

"Well what was I supposed to do? Go bowling?" Suga Momma retorted. "Do you know how hard it is to bowl with my hip? We can't all be spry youngsters like yourself." Suga Momma looked over the ruins of the world and sighed "Nevertheless I know when I'm beat, I suppose this is the part where we retreat?"

 

[hr]

 

Justice chuckled dryly. "Of course. I will take your word for it. And thats all we have left anymore isn't it? Our words." Justice smiled. "However do not worry about guiding me. I know your location well enough." With that Justice summoned a corrider of darkness and entered it, materializing inside the Castle.

[Phantom Roxas]

Balthazar rested his hand on the Grimhold. "Finally." The sorcerer surveyed the artifact, noticing that the image of Horvath was still present. "I'm impressed to see that you haven't opened this. He looked saw the Emperor glaring at Ryan, so he decided to break the tension. "We've had a long day, everyone. We should stay here for the night, so that we'll be at full strength to stop the Organization."

"Is that really a good idea?" Shuren asked. "If we just stay here, who knows how many worlds the Organization will attack?"

Balthazar drew the sakeidoscope from his coat pocket. "I can't be helped. The Star Shard would be take us to a random place. We were lucky to get here, we were lucky to even defeat Mateus." Balthazar gave a look at Emperor at the last remark. "All of you, get some rest. There should be a place around here we can stay."

"That looks like a good place." Shuren pointed to a building in the distance, simply marked "INN".

"That could work." Balthazar led his apprentices and Lightning to the inn. Inside, they found people chatting a tables, and a man at the front desk smiled as Balthazar opened the door.

"Welcome!" the innkeeper said. "Will you be staying the night? If you're all together, it will cost 600 gil."

Balthazar approached the desk and dropped several golden blocks in front of the innkeeper. The man nodded, and gestured to six beds to his right.

"Sorry if you're not comfortable sleeping in your regular clothes, but this will have to do." Balthazar hung his coat on a nearby coatrack before moving over to his bed.

Shuren looked at everyone, then at Balthazar. Without another word, he headed to his bed.

[hr]
"Oh no, you're on your own! I am not from this time, and so I must go back to whence I came!" Merlin's hat pointed straight up, and the wizard fired into the air like a rocket.

[hr]
Xelo looked at Justice. "Well, good to know that we have a new member." Xelo headed to his room, feeling fulfilled with what he had accomplished.
 

The next day…

Kreix stumbled onto the ground, finding himself in a city, with Xemyrom lying on the ground a few feet from him. "You're free to join me at my castle whenever you wake up." Kreix opened a Corridor, finding himself back in his room. There he found Lexyk standing beside a young man.

"Ah, Lexyk. I'd like to know why you have brought this boy into my room, but something is more important. How long have I been gone?"

"Twelve hours, sir." Lexyk said. "It is now a new day, and I have kept this boy here since I retrieved him some time between your departure and your return. If it is not too much to ask, how did your business go?"

"Xemyrom will continue to be of use to us, for the time being. As for this boy, do you have his human name?"

"Yasu Go."

Kreix laughed. "I suppose that name is due to his heritage, judging by the looks of him. Very well, then. The name "Yasu Go" appeared before the fledgling Nobody's eyes before the letters spun around. Kreix placed his hands at them, halting the letters. In it's place was a new name.

"You are now Xyu Gaso. Remember it well, for it is who you are to be. Now then, I trust you can find your way out of my room?"

[hr]
Balthazar nudged Shuren on the shoulder. "It's time to get up. We have work to do."

[Super Chaos Sonic]

[url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tpTo7lw_W-E]KHBBS OST ~ Aqua's Theme[/url]

 

A lot happened over the course of events that unfolded for Balthazar's apprentices...especially for Trevor. Meeting Balthazar, being trained in the art of magic for several months...but within the few hours that were recounted in his head...those were the ones he kept thinking about. Having the Keyblade choose him, one of his friends being held captive...and to top it off, leaving his own world. These and even more thoughts ran through Trevor's mind as he laid on the inn's bed, looking up at the ceiling and his lifted right hand. The ring he was given stood shining as he sighed as he slowly got up.

 

This Keyblade...why was I chosen? Is it because of my heart? Or because of something else?? he thought, as he looked at the headphones around his neck. He placed them on and began to play his music.

 

[url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4lABKHVETR8]Utada Hikaru ~ Final Distance Instrumental[/url]

 

He began to softly hum to the music's melody, as he slowly close his eyes. I can't think about those events that drag me down... I have to stay focused and think about the present... That's right... Trevor thought, as he seemed to almost have a conversation with himself. But it didn't really feel like he was talking to himself...no...seemed more like he was talking to his heart.

 

[hr]

 

Zack sat by the Town Square's fountain, thinking about his almost defeat at the hands of that creature. He was stronger than I ever anticipated... and not only that... even helped in killing Lock, Shock, and Barrel... glad they're doing better than before now... he thought, with a bone chilling sigh.

 

Bark Bark!

 

The skeleton prince was interrupted from his thoughts to see Zero swirling around him, playfully. Zack sighed again, but with a ghostly grin upon his skull. "Alright Zero, just one game. Afterwords, we'll help dad with his plans for Halloween." he said, as he reached under his hoodie and pulled out one of his rib bones and tossed it for Zero to fetch. But...I have to get stronger... in case I return to fight that creature... I'll beat him next time... I swear on my afterlife!!

[Kōsuke Ueki]

Ryan was surprised how easy it was to get the Grimhold. Honestly, he thought he would have to fight again and prove his point, but his mind felt clouded. And what added to that was that the Emperor began to stare at him. He felt a cold shiver down his spine, as if he knew that there was more to this. Everybody's a means to many ends. But where does Ryan fit? Where does Balthazar and his fellow apprentices fit into this? To what end are everyone surrounding him a means to? All Ryan could do was glare at the Emperor back and walk away, mouthing to him, "It's not over." You can bet your ass we're not finished Mateus. he thought. If I'm a means to an end, then so are you, and your life will be ended by me. That, I'll assure. Ryan now started to feel dark in his mind, as if his words are more powerful than he realized.

 

*****

 

Through the course of the night, Ryan was going through something he couldn't possibly explain. It was a nightmare, but none he'd ever experienced before. One by one, he saw his friends, even Balthazar and Viola, become Heartless. He ran as fast as he could, but he couldn't escape what was going on. Next thing he knew, he was trapped, cornered by the Shadow remains of what used to be his allies in combat. Throughout the nightmare, Ryan could hear voices, saying, "You can't protect them." "They will fall as you will." Next thing he knew, the Shadow of used to be Trevor jumped on him, and all faded into darkness. He snapped from his sleep without making a sound, except for his heavy breathing. Whatever he just experienced, he most likely just viewed his future, his inevitable fate. He would know soon enough.

 

*****

 

The next day, Ryan awoke silently, not saying a single word. As he got up and got dressed in his own privacy, he remained quiet with his head down, waiting for the others to get ready...

[Love of Ghibli]

It had been a whole day since signs of Kreix on this plain of existence. Nerhyx was completely aware of his master's time travelling powers but he was also aware of his masters limitations. He couldn't fully engage in combat while in the distant past or future because that would put too much a strain on his powers. Nerhyx felt a sensation, could this be worry, concern, or maybe even fear? He really had to look deeper into this whole theory that nobodies do not have emotions. Nevertheless him and his gentlemen were still in the library waiting for the superior to return. Of course as time passed from that initial day heartless and nobodies were sent throughout multiple worlds and he borrowed some hi-tech scanners from his new ally Syndrome and scanned all over. 

 

The second the superior came back to the mortal plane Nerhyx was alerted immediately. Though it only showed by a sudden head jerk with him and all of his Gentlemen. He quickly narrowed in on the city in which his master was located but it seems that the superior was immediately taken into a corridor of darkness. It wasn't like the scanners could detect the Corridors it was just that they picked up Kreix's return to the castle. Not many methods for him to be able to traverse such distances. Naturally he dispersed the Gentlemen to go be by his master's side. But of course when he went to his master's door he simply knocked because unlike the other rude, crude, and borderline incompetent (bar the newest ones of course) he has manners.

[Mugendramon]

Yaaaaaawn.

 

Omcraxs leapt to his feet instinctively, and his sleepy conscious mind drew him back to bed. It wasn't until Starscream popped out from the ceiling above him that he started thinking.

 

"What do you want, you annoying thing... do you realize how early it is...?"

 

The Wraith shook its hood and proceeded to point to the wall above the door to Omcraxs's chambers. The Nobody followed the hand and noticed the clock hanging there, marking 3 with its small hand.

 

There really was no way to tell the time in the World That Never Was, but time COULD be kept track of by following the movements of clocks.

 

"Weird, it hasn't moved since I got here. I haven't slept at all, get the fuck out of here."

 

Starscream shook his head wildly. Omcraxs understood then. Twelve hours is a lot of time to sleep, huh. Better get going.

 

An Organization cloak, a beer and a corridor later, Omcraxs strode over to the library. There was no need to let any of the others know what was going to with the worlds assigned to each of them. The Greater Nobody sat down at the computer's screens and began looking through them. Most of those he was assigned had been erradicated by now, and Heartless roamed freely in the void of space. He scrolled quickly, angered by having to perform the same evil that once caused him to become... what he was now.

 

But one of the worlds, a rather underdeveloped one at that, was holding on to existence. It was a swamp and a farmland region! It was still swarming with Heartless, that was plain and visible. But it had been "infected" a day ago. No resistence should stand in the Heartless' way right now. So why...

 

Omcraxs raised one of his arms violently. A Wraith showed itself next to him. "Go to that world. Find out WHY is it that the Heartless can't consume every single heart in there."

 

Nod. Corridor. Out.

[The Warden]

Haxz hadn't slept much, there was so much going on after all... it wasn't from general excitement, but from expectation. Kreix was due back any time, since he had gone off for a little 'chat' with Xemyron, according to the Deadbeats. Looks like that was another corpse to add to the pile. Other than that, the Organization had gained a new member, and that was alright, really.

 

He sighed loudly and knew he couldn't fight things any longer. He swung his feet off the bed and pushed himself off. A Deadbeat had returned his coat several hours ago, but he didn't feel like putting it on. Sure it grants protection from darkness, but, it's not as if he had a Heart for the darkness to steal. Besides, they tend to be pretty stuffy at times, hardly a decent fashion statement.

 

But, for his next bit of work, he'd need it anyways. At least there was some benefit to these things: They were at least ridiculously easy to put on.

 

And with that, he took a short Corridor to the Library.

 

[hr]

 

He Corridored right into the Deadbeat Cloister, as they liked to call it. He snapped his fingers twice and all Deadbeats stood in awed silence, allowing a couple crafty Gamblers to switch a few pieces in their games. "I want all of you right now to fan out across the worlds. You are to locate the Keyblade Wielder and his friends and keep constant tabs on them. Use the Heartless to sniff them out, but, under any and ALL circumstances, do not reveal yourselves. Right now, we don't want them to know that the Organization is showing them interest. Once they have been found, report back to me what world they're in, then continue to follow them. I was a priority call IF they leave the world. Now go."

 

All Deadbeats immediately saluted and took their own Corridors out, leaving the Gamblers behind. "You Gamblers too. I want all my bases covered here, go."

 

Though disgruntled, they too obeyed his order and left. Haxz sighed loudly, and waited. Whilst they weren't always that effective, the Deadbeats did have efficiency and numbers on their side at least.

 

 

[hr]

 

 

Meanwhile, high above the ever nightlite sky of Traverse Town, a visitor was making his entrance... by way of golden comet hurtling through the sky. Few probably saw as it hurtled through the sky, and most likely they didn't notice six smaller lights break off from it as it hurltled into an alleyway in the Third District, crashing straight into a large metal bin. It wobbled about from the impact, and the lid slammed shut with a thunderous clang. Thankfully, such an impact proved harmless, as re-entering impacts tend to be, but, it still left one problem.

 

"Oooff. Gurr, ngh, GYA! *Huff huff* Where, where, am, I? What is this place? Feels, like steel. Have I been consumed by some metal beast? Doesn't seem so, so, perhaps this be a dungeon of some sort..."

 

There were several slight knocks emanating from the inside of the bin, they echoed a little. "Tis be a container of some kind. No matter, my blade shall cut through this metal box."

 

After that remark, and a few seconds, a large blue blade, carved from some strange crystal burst through the side of the bin. It effortlessly glided through the metal, until a square was carved from its hide. The blade retracted suddenly, and then the square flew off, booted away by a large lapin foot.

 

Like the blade, it retracted back into the bin, and, blinking uncertainly, Prince Cornelius stepped out of his prison. It would have been a bit more heroic, had he not had a banana peel draped across his shoulder. He removed it in disgust, and inspected his surroundings. "This place. Tis much like the Pooka Village, but, tis not the same. The Portal must hath failed; from that curse laid by those foul shadow creatures. But, they were not the Desecrators, so, what were they? I do hope Velvet is- !!! Velvet! Oh, my sweet Velvet! While I stand here talking to myself, you are still out there, potentially being harmed by those foul creatures. I must find a way to reach you."

 

(It should be noted that people from Cornelius' world have no inner monologue unless other people happen to be around.) Cornelius opened his inventory screen, but found a horror waiting for him. All six of his backpacks were missing, scattered to the four winds upon his re-entry into Traverse Town. He pulled on his own ears in stress. "My backpacks are missing, and so to must be the coins. This is awful, without the coins, the Pookas will never get their wish. Oh, what foulness plagues me even further. But, I can't sit here petulantly. This place seems inhabitated, perchance I could enlist some noble warriors to aid me."

 

Gotta love people who are immune to pessimism. And so, with new courage in his heart, Cornelius ran on the tops of his toes towards the large gates leading back into First District, in order to enlist some noble warriors who will aid them. Gee, I wonder who they will be.

[Phantom Roxas]

Years into the past, but not many…
 
King Arthur walked through the halls with Merlin at his side. Guards stood up, holding their spears, but the king gestured for them to be at ease.
 
"I must say, Arthur," Merlin spoke. "For you to allow children to compete in these festivals is quite surprising."
"I was young when I became king," Arthur replied. "Who's to say that no other youth could achieve greatness."
"Well, I have been wanting an apprentice."
"Someone to clean up the house for you in your old age?"
"No! I'm not getting any younger, so I had better make sure that magic is past down. Can't let anyone irresponsible control it."
 
Two guards approached, dragging a boy across the ground. The child struggled to break free, but the guards were too strong. Arthur rushed to the boy, kneeling to him. "Sirs, there is no reason to be rough with this boy! Let him stand." The guards let go, and the boy rose to his feet, brushing the dirt off of himself. "Tell me, son, who might you be."
 
The child ignored Arthur, instead looking past him, staring at Merlin. "Finally."
 
One of the guards grabbed Balthazar by the shoulder. "You will answer the king when he speaks to you!"
 
"Calm down!" Arthur commanded. "The boy wishes to speak with Merlin, so let him."
 
Merlin scoffed. "Really, Arthur? But this boy is just a brat!"
 
Arthur raised an eyebrow at the wizard. "Who's king?"
 
Merlin sighed. "Very well. Alright, boy, what is your name?"
"I'm Balthazar Blake!" the boy answered. "And I want you to teach me!"
 
[hr]
Balthazar saw that Ryan was ready, eagerly awaiting for the others to wake up. Viola seemed to be sound asleep, but Balthazar could tell that Trevor was trying to stay in bed. "I know you're awake, Trevor. Get out of bed."

"So," Shuren said as he approached Ryan. "How'd you sleep?"

Balthazar sensed a new presence nearby. He saw Shuren speaking with Ryan, so he thought it best to be brief. "I have to check on a few things. You make sure the others wake up."

The sorcerer stepped outside of the inn, trying to see what he had sensed. The thing that most caught his eye was a blue rabbit, who stood on its hind legs and held a sword. "Well, that's definitely not a Heartless." Deciding that the newcomer was not a threat, Balthazar moved in. "And who might you be?"

[hr]
Kreix commanded his door to open, revealing Nerhyx. Lexyk nodded, understanding that it was best to leave the elite to their business before teleporting away. "Ah, Nerhyx, do come in. I'll save you the trouble of having to listen to where I've been for the past dozen hours, because I would like to introduce you to our newest member, Xyu Gaso. I'm afraid he's still trying to find out what he even is, so you'll have to bear with him. Now then, I trust the others have been making some progress in my absence?"

[The Warden]

Cornelius was quite takenw ith Traverse Town, the lights and the colour were certainly a new experience; anothr such experience were the strange vanilla coloured creatures with the enormous puffballs sprouting form their heads that flew across the area. This was definitely not Erion, he knew that much, nor was the man who was unusually in proportion, no long legs or impossibly slim attributes to be found. His outfit could use some doing up too. Cornelius kept his blade clenched a little, just to be certain. "Greetings. I am Prince Cornelius of Titania. Pray tell me kind sir, where, exactly am I? Is this some secret city in Erion? I have not know its likes before."

 

[hr]

 

Still being the responsible one, Haxz was busy writing out a report on what happened in New York. "Let's see now... Keyblade manifest, minor Heartless infestation destroyed, Hearts released by Keyblade. Possible percent of grand mission? Zero point one percent. *Sighs* I wonder where Kreix is? HEY MONEYBAGS!"

 

Stepping from the shadows of a bookcase was another lookalike, but the pockets of this one clinked merrily. "Yes Lord Haxz?"

 

"Is Kreix back yet, I gotta report to him."

 

"The others said he returned to his chamber. We were going to tell you, but, we were just so impressed that you were capable of being responsible we just, let is slip."

 

*Snap* The lead of the pencil Haxz had been using snapped and flew off the table, landing by Moneybag's foot. A worry line formed on Moneybag's brow, and he took a hazardly step back. Haxz rose slowly from his table, and raised a commanding hand to his lackey. "Next time something important crosses your way, do feel inclined to tell me. I know I am personally amazing, but some things take precedence to me, as shocking as that sounds. Now get lost!"

 

The Deadbeat hurriedly returned to the shadows as Haxz took a Corridor out.

 

[hr]

 

Having something known as common sense, Haxz teleported into the hall where Kreix' domain was, but not directly in that room. As Haxz exited to the Corridor, he noted that the door to Kreix' room was open, and the buttkiser was entering. Oh freaking joy that was. "Hey Kreix, I got a report for ya!"

[Kōsuke Ueki]

Ryan remained silent for a moment. He felt as though telling anyone about what happened in his mind when he took the full force of the Entice spell would have disastrous consequences. "I-I had a nightmare..." he began in a slight whisper. "I felt...as though I've failed you all..." His voice began to raise in volume to his normal tone. "You all became Heartless, and I was left defenseless. Next thing I knew, I saw nothing but darkness..." He remained silent for a while. "I'm surprised I didn't wake any of you guys up. This is what I get for saving Viola's life." He then took a deep breath and tried to relax. "So, anything happen to you while you slept?" Ryan was only trying to change the topic to lighten the mood, as gloomy and depressing as it already was.

[Super Chaos Sonic]

Balthazar saw that Ryan was ready, eagerly awaiting for the others to wake up. Viola seemed to be sound asleep, but Balthazar could tell that Trevor was trying to stay in bed. "I know you're awake, Trevor. Get out of bed."

"So," Shuren said as he approached Ryan. "How'd you sleep?"

Balthazar sensed a new presence nearby. He saw Shuren speaking with Ryan, so he thought it best to be brief. "I have to check on a few things. You make sure the others wake up."

The sorcerer stepped outside of the inn, trying to see what he had sensed. The thing that most caught his eye was a blue rabbit, who stood on its hind legs and held a sword. "Well, that's definitely not a Heartless." Deciding that the newcomer was not a threat, Balthazar moved in. "And who might you be?"

 

Well...guess I better get up then... Trevor chuckled as he thought this, removing his headphones and sitting up on the bed. Shuren, Ryan, and Balthazar were all awake...while Viola remained asleep. Best to let her stay asleep, than to wake up a girl who needed her beauty sleep.

 

He got off the bed and smiled at Shuren and Ryan, as he approached them. "Morning Ryan...Shuren. I take it both of you slept alright last night?" he said, noticing Balthazar apparently leaving the inn...most likely to check something out. Far be it from him to investigate as well, and cause another outbreak of action...especially this early in the morning.

 

He awaited for the others to respond to his question...until he heard a faint whisper. He turned his head around quickly and looked: no one. That voice...w-who...or what was it...? Someone was calling me... he thought.

[Love of Ghibli]

Nerhyx was elated that he finally had an audience with the Supreme. It was like the gates of Heaven had opened up and they granted him his greatest wish. Nerhyx was about to open his mouth and utter words of calmness, but of course the token douchbag had to interrupt. Seriously this person must have the home training of savage bulldogs. Nerhyx did not let this person phase him as this was a usual occurrence and he had long gotten used to it. Pity how the ties that bind these nobodies can be so shallow sometimes. Though it looked like The Supreme did not respond to Haxz's report giving request. 

 

Nerhyx first gave a gentle bow to the new Nobody known as Xu Gaso. "Welcome to the Organization I hope you find everything to your liking." He then looked over to the number one. "I am sure they have been doing things to further the efforts of the cause, but I am pleased to say that we have 2, or 3 depending on how you want to count, new members in our ranks. I think that they are pretty much well adjusted. I am sure you are aware us Nobodies tend to be solitary creatures so I think it would be best if you introduced yourself  to them." Nerhyx wanted to add before they are tainted by the ignorance of the others but he didn't want the Supreme to think any less of him.