Characters / Kingdom Hearts The Antipode Organization XIII

Kingdom Hearts: The Antipode Main Character Index
Protagonists | Disney Villains | Organization XIII | Other Antagonists | Supporting Disney Characters | Supporting Square Enix Characters | Supporting Original Characters

Organization XIII

The main antagonistic force in the story. A group of Nobodies who meddle in the affairs of the worlds with the goal of reclaiming their hearts and becoming whole once more.

---

Tropes pertaining to their members

General

• The Corruptor: They target vulnerable individuals (usually villains) and push them into using darkness with the aim of turning them into Heartless and possibly recruiting them as a Nobody.
• Lack of Empathy: As Nobodies, they cannot truly feel anything and thus have no qualms with toying with the lives of others in order to achieve their goals.
• Limited Wardrobe: Averted. Though they're standard uniform is a Black Cloak, they sometimes don other outfits to blend in with various worlds.
• The Soulless: As Nobodies, they are incapable of feeling emotions.
• Spared by the Adaptation: As the events of Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories did not occur, the members who were killed in that entry (barring Vexen) are alive and well by the time Kingdom Hearts II would take place.

Xemnas (I)

The Superior of the In-Between (Original Name: Terra)

"What you have failed to realize is that, when the time comes, Riku will have no reason to eliminate me at all."

^{Click here to see Xemnas's younger self}

Appearances: Act 1: The Antipode|Act 2: Fragmented Truths|The Year Between|Act 3: All That's Left|Side Stories: A Crossing of Halves,Erosion

"I must become one with Kingdom Hearts. I will become a higher existence. All of my true ambitions begin there...."

The Founder and Superior of Organization XIII; Xemnas is the Big Bad of Act 2: Fragmented Truths, The Year Between and Act 3: All That's Left. He appears briefly in Act 1: The Antipode where he fights Riku to gather the necessary data required to create a Replica of the Keybearer. Cold, commanding and ruthless; Xemnas plans on harnessing the power of Kingdom Hearts to create a new world.

---

• Adaptational Explanation: Xemnas' use of Ethereal Blades as projectiles is explained as a Shotlock.
• Adaptational Heroism: Downplayed and Zig-Zagged. This iteration of Xemnas, being Terra's Nobody rather than Xehanort's, is noticeably greyer and more sympathetic than his canon counterpart. However, this counts as Adaptational Villainy for Terra, who underwent a Big Bad Slippage prior to the events of the story.
• Adaptational Nice Guy: Downplayed. While he's nonetheless a cold, manipulative Bad Boss, this version of Xemnas is more affable towards the heroes, is far less prone to cruelty for cruelty's sake and makes it clear that he takes no pleasure in the suffering caused by his misdeeds.
• Adaptation Relationship Overhaul: Due to their drastically different goals,^note It should be noted that Xemnas' character arc in Antipode was planned long before the release of Kingdom Hearts 3D [Dream Drop Distance] Xemnas is not allies with Ansem SoD and Young Xehanort in this continuity, viewing them with contempt and disdain.
  • A subtle example: while canon Xemnas genuinely valued the rest of the Organization as companions and felt bad for mistreating them (which was only apparent in his final moments), Xemnas in this continuity saw his subordinates as mere pawns and deliberately kept them at an arm's length due to their connection with Xehanort, with Zexion alone earning a limited amount of trust from him.
• Adaptational Sympathy: Unlike his canon counterpart, Xemnas' Well-Intentioned Extremist Tragic Villain traits are played completely straight.
• Big Bad: For Act 2: Fragmented Truths, The Year Between and Act 3: All That's Left.
• Even Evil Has Standards: Holds nothing but contempt for Ansem, Seeker of Darkness and his destructive desire to plunge all of existence into darkness.
  • A minor example that's Played for Laughs: even Xemnas considers Ansem's outfit to be frivolous.
• Friendly Enemy: Played With. Though their interactions are far from friendly, Xemnas conversed with Aqua and Xiruk in an cordial manner and admitted to the former that he preferred her company over that of his colleagues.
• Lack of Empathy: Though he is well aware that his actions are far from okay, his lack of heart means that he's far less disturbed about it than he would usually be.
• Laser Blade: His ethereal blades. He can manifest them as both melee weapons and Shotlocks.
• Nothing Personal: Says this when he kills Megara to ensure the survival of the Keybearers by restoring Hercules' strength.
  Don't take this personally, but I need them alive.
• Pet the Dog: When an incapacitated Riku is placed in the Simulated Twilight Town to recover, Xemnas forbade the Organization from taking advantage of his vulnerability, instead allowing the boy to recover despite the threat he poses to his plans.
• The Power of Hate: Believes that anger and hatred; the only emotions he remembers, are what constitute a heart.
• The Soulless: As a Nobody, Xemnas is a hollow, emotionless husk of a human being.
• Spanner in the Works: Sabotages Hades's plan for universal domination by killing Megara, thereby giving Hercules his power back.
• Tragic Villain: Though his backstory and motives are sympathetic, Xemnas is nonetheless a major threat whom the heroes need to take down.
• Villainous Rescue: Is heavily implied to have saved Aqua from certain death at the hands of the Cyclops Titan by shielding her with a barrier.
• Walking Spoiler: There's more to his character than it seems. See The Old Friend entry below for his true identity.

Xigbar (II)

The Freeshooter (Original Name: Braig)

"All this fuss about some spyglass named Riku. But my eye has no name."

Appearances: Act 1: The Antipode|Act 2: Fragmented Truths|The Year Between|Act 3: All That's Left

"Gotta admit, I didn't see it coming, but gramps always knew how to set the bar high. Whatever he's got cookin', I betcha it'll be somethin' big."

—Xigbar to Young Xehanort

Number II of the Organization and Xehanort's former right-hand man. Casual as he is cruel, Xigbar has his own reasons for ensuring that Xehanort's schemes come to fruition.

---

• Accidental Misnaming: Though Malicious Misnaming would certainly be in character for Xigbar, he genuinely mishears Riku Replica's newly adopted name Xiruk as "Xerox".
• Child Hater: Implied by a sarcastic remark to Saïx when the latter returns from Monstropolis.
  Oh, don't tell me that kids aren't actually toxic…
• Climax Boss: Alongside Demyx in The Year Between. The duo launch a surprise attack in Disney Town during the Dream Festival in order to coax the heroes into brandishing their Keyblades once again. This takes place at the culmination of Riku Replica's character arc preceeding the story's final act.
• Co-Dragons: With Zexion and Saïx to Xemnas.
• Combo Rifle: Wields dual Arrowguns which can be combined into a sniper rifle.
• Dragon with an Agenda: Xigbar is the only member of the Organization to follow Xehanort's plan to fill thirteen vessels with the latter's heart.
• Faux Affably Evil: His laidback demeanor does little to conceal his cruelty.
• Flying Weapon: Makes use of the rusted Keyblades in Treasure Planet, levitating them and launching them back at Captain Flint's Nobody. This indicates that Xigbar is far more powerful than he lets on.
• Hawaiian-Shirted Tourist: Sports an orange Hawaiian shirt when he infiltrates Disney Town.
• Hidden Depths: Xigbar has a lot more going on than he seems.
• Keeping the Enemy Close: The reason Xemnas keeps Xehanort's former right-hand man in a high-ranking position.
• Rugged Scar: Has one on his left cheek courtesy of Terra.
• Screw This, I'm Outta Here: Gets bored during the Arendelle arc and leaves to watch TV, much to Young Xehanort's chagrin.
  Xehanort: The future of the Organization is dying on this couch, and you would rather watch TV?
  Xigbar: Yep.
• Secret Identity: Xigbar is really the ancient Keyblade Master Luxu, whose goal is to ensure that Xehanort's plan to fulfill the prophecy of the second Keyblade War comes to pass.
• Villains Out Shopping: Enjoys watching Dinosaurs on TV.

Xaldin (III)

The Whirlwind Lancer (Original Name: Dilan)

Appearances: Act 1: The Antipode|Act 2: Fragmented Truths|The Year Between|Act 3: All That's Left

"Bold of you to accuse us of betrayal, boy. The only Xehanort I answer to is Lord Xemnas himself."

— Xaldin to Young Xehanort

Number III in the Organization and one of its founding members. In his past life, he was an apprentice of Ansem the Wise.

---

• An Arm and a Leg: When Xaldin stabs Elsa in the heart with a shard of Nahxs' enchanted glass, she retaliates by embedding the shard into his left arm, turning it into ice. This is played for Black Comedy when Kristoff picks up the dismembered arm and gets into a conversation with Hans about selling frozen limbs on the black market.
• Evil Chancellor: Though Xaldin served as advisor to the Westergaard Royal Family for an extended period of time, Prince Hans was well aware of his true nature and worked with him in hopes of gaining more power.
• Flying Weapon: Utilities an array of levitating lances in battle. Xion gains this ability after killing him.
• Kick the Dog: Insults the late Mr. Arrow in front of Captain Amelia when the latter attempts to have him assassinated.
  Mr. Arrow was the lowest form of scum to ever disgrace the vermin that spawned him. A mindless, gutless dreg unfit to live among the most noxious sewage. I always swore we'd settle things. That I'd smite him back to the cesspool he crawled from. So, why don't you summon him? Nothing would bring me more pleasure than to finally skewer the stone-faced fool. (...) Oh. Could it be that Mr. Arrow is no longer with us? That would explain why he's not glued to your hip. A pity, but I suppose it was inevitable. A foolish heart and an empty mind are a death sentence for those in our profession. Just a shame that I couldn't finish him myself.
• Moment Killer: A platonic example. When Elsa shared a heartfelt moment with Riku after threatening the Organization on the latter's behalf, Xaldin made his entrance.
  How sweet. You would make a declaration of war against the Organization itself? Queen Elsa, you had our curiosity. But now you have our attention.
• No, Mr. Bond, I Expect You to Dine: Provides dinner for Elsa and Riku when he confronts them in Elsa's Ice Palace.
• "The Reason You Suck" Speech: Directed at Captain Amelia after she becomes the temporary ruler of Arendelle:
  I'll have nothing to do with your lot, Captain Amelia. You may see yourself as a leader, and you may have the Prince's trust, but in my eyes, you're just a child playing pretend.
• Villainous Valor: Shields Nahxs and Young Xehanort with his own body when Xigbar makes his entrance by shooting at them.

Vexen (IV)

The Chilly Academic (Original Name: Even)

Appearances: Act 1: The Antipode|Act 2: Fragmented Truths

"Don't you see? There never were any bombs! Your sentimentality blinded you, just as it always has! That's why you were the perfect—"

— Vexen's last words to Riku Replica

Number IV in the Organization and one of its founding members. In his past life, he was an apprentice of Ansem the Wise. On Xemnas's orders, Vexen created a Replica of the Keybearer for the Organization to command.

---

• Batman Gambit: Manipulates Riku Replica into
• Blackmail: When the Replica begins to form a bond with Riku, Vexen threatens to destroy Naminé and Roxas by detonating 'kill switches' implanted on them unless he eliminates Riku. Its a bluff.
• Evil Old Folks: One of the senior members of the Organization. Riku Replica even refers to him as an "old geezer".
• Hate Sink: A smug bastard who's responsible for much of the Mirror Trio's suffering.
• An Ice Person: Wields power over ice. Riku Replica gains this power after killing him.
• Karmic Death: Dies at the hands of the Replica he created as a Living Weapon for the Organization.
• Killed Mid-Sentence: At the end of their confrontation, Vexen taunt's Riku Replica by calling them a puppet, prompting the latter to strangle him to death.
• Post-Final Boss: In Fragmented Truths. After the Final Battle, the Mirror Trio confronts Vexen in his lab to tie up loose ends before they leave the Organization.
• Shame If Something Happened: Says this when he threatens to kill the Replica's friends should the latter refuse to cooperate.
  …Assuming you value your friends' lives. One press of this button, and they'll both detonate, and that would truly be a shame, now, wouldn't it?

Lexaeus (V)

The Taciturn Stalwart (Original Name: Aeleus)

Appearances: Act 2: Fragmented Truths|The Year Between|Act 3: All That's Left

Number V in the Organization and one of its founding members. In his past life, he was an apprentice of Ansem the Wise.

---

• Alas, Poor Villain: Weakened from his battle with Riku and Kairi, Lexaeus is unceremoniously killed by Xion at Marluxia's behest. His body dissipating in a pitiful heap on the ground, Lexaeus spends his last moments thinking of his comrade Zexion.
  Forgive me, Zexion.
• BFS: Wields a large two-handed sword.
• Dishing Out Dirt: His primary power. Xion gains this ability after killing him.
• Dual Boss: Alongside Syndrome in the Parr Family's household.
• Even Evil Has Standards: Calls Syndrome out for his recklessness when the latter willingly risks Mirage's life by daring Mr. Incredible to kill her.
• Pragmatic Villainy: When he catches Mirage assisting the heroes, Lexaeus offers to spare her life should she leave due to her not being a threat to his goals.
  Leave this place, Mirage, and perhaps I will keep this insubordination between the two of us. As it is, I have no reason to harm you.
• The Stoic: Is stout and emotionless.
• Would Hurt a Child: Had no qualms with allowing Syndrome to steal baby Jack-Jack from his family and even fought off the heroes when they tried to intervene.

Zexion (VI)

The Cloaked Schemer (Original Name: Ienzo)

Appearances: Act 2: Fragmented Truths|The Year Between|Act 3: All That's Left|Side Stories: Shadows of the Past

"You see, it wouldn't matter if you were a Keyblade Master or a novice, so long as you fulfilled your purpose. True, Lord Xemnas does have an odd fascination with you, but to me, you're simply an annoyance."

— Zexion to Aqua

Number VI of the Organization and Xemnas's second-in-command. In his past life, he was an orphaned child taken in by Ansem the Wise.

---

• Arch-Enemy: To Sora. Zexion was by far the biggest threat to Sora whenever the latter infiltrated the Organization's hideout. Him briefly taking control of Sora and forcing him to attack Kairi cemented this.
• Co-Dragons: With Xigbar and Saïx to Xemnas, though Zexion is the highest ranking member among them.
• Even Evil Has Loved Ones: Is visibly distraught when he learns of Lexaeus' demise.
• Faux Affably Evil: Greets Axel in a deceptively sweet voice when he interrogates the latter after knocking him unconscious.
  Rise and shine! I'm so dreadfully sorry about that head wound, but you see, I just had to ensure you wouldn't run away…
• Forced Transformation: As the second-highest ranking member of the Organization, Zexion has the ability to turn other Nobodies into Dusks as a form of punishment.
• Jerkass: Is rude and condescending towards both his subordinates and enemies.
• Master of Illusion: Zexion uses illusions to deceive his enemies both in and out of battle.
• Our Gargoyles Rock: Disguises himself as a Gargoyle when he forms an alliance with Demona.
• Power Copying: When fighting a Keybearer, Zexion can create a fully-functional duplicate of their Keyblade which can be used for 24 hours.
• "The Reason You Suck" Speech: Gives one to DiZ in the ending of The Year Between.
  Ah, but it's Zexion now. And I have to say, Master… I'm almost appalled, looking at you now. (...) True. But just think of how far you've fallen. You were once a noble ruler, the most brilliant scientific mind… and then you failed. Your fear was what ultimately cast you into that darkness. And look at the results! You failed to save your once radiant kingdom, and you failed to save this town… Just like before, your hands are stained with the blood of those around you.
• Sadist: Rivals Larxene in terms of sheer cruelty.
  [While torturing Amelia and subjecting her to a Shapeshifter Guilt Trip] You'll forgive the indulgence, I hope. But I haven't had this much fun in ages.
• Secret-Keeper: Downplayed. Zexion is the only member of the Organization who knows Xemnas' true identity and his vendetta against Xehanort. Even then, Xemnas doesn't fully trust Zexion and has withheld several details from him over the years.
  Zexion: I just wish you were more forthcoming. All these years, and there's still so much I don't know.
  Xemnas: The walls have ears, Zexion. You alone have earned my trust, but I cannot take chances.
• Shapeshifter Guilt Trip: Subjects Sora to one, showing him an illusion of Riku and Kairi rejecting him due to being a Heartless. Zexion also pulls this trick during his fight with Captain Amelia, disguising himself as her deceased confidant Mr. Arrow.
• Smug Snake: His arrogance makes it all the more satisfying whenever the heroes overcome his machinations and break through his confident exterior.
• Squishy Wizard: Is physically weak despite his magic prowess and relies on trickery to overcome his opponents.
• Throw the Book at Them: When Zexion learns that Axel helped the Mirror Trio desert the Organization at the end of Fragmented Truths, he knocks Axel unconscious by smacking him over the head with his Lexicon.
• Villains Out Shopping: Is seen reading a philosophical book about the subjectivity of morality in his free time.

Saïx (VII)

The Luna Diviner (Original Name: Isa)

Appearances: Act 1: The Antipode|Act 2: Fragmented Truths|The Year Between|Act 3: All That's Left|Side Stories: Refusal to Change,Shadows of the Past

Number VII in the Organization and a high-ranking member. Aside from Xigbar, Saïx is the only one implanted with a seed of Xehanort's heart.

---

• Adaptational Backstory Change: Isa and Lea were test subjects in Terra-Xehanort's experiments as opposed to apprentices of Ansem the Wise as Kingdom Hearts III revealed. Terra-Xehanort carved the Recusant's Sigil into Isa's forehead, thus planting a seed of Xehanort's heart in him.
• Adaptational Explanation: During the experiments, Isa's light was thrown off-balance, leading to darkness overcompensating. His moonlight sensitivity is the result of having his heart briefly overloaded with excess light.
• Bad Boss: To the Replica and XIII, whom he was tasked with supervising. He treated them coldly and harshly.
• Co-Dragons: With Zexion and Xigbar to Xemnas.
• The Comically Serious: Comes off as this when interacting with his more comical comrades.
• Grand Theft Me: Is gradually losing his autonomy due to Xehanort's heart growing within him.
• One-Winged Angel: Undergoes a transformation prior to his battle in Monstropolis. His hair grows matted and unkempt, his eyes turn a solid yellow and his teeth stretch into fangs. Unlike most examples, Saïx does this during his first fight with the heroes.
• Scars Are Forever: During the experiments, Terra-Xehanort carved the Recusant's Sigil into Isa's forehead, thereby planting within him a seed of Xehanort's heart.
• Supernatural Gold Eyes: Due to having a seed of Xehanort's heart inside him. In his One-Winged Angel form, his eyes turn a solid yellow.

Axel (VIII)

The Flurry of Dancing Flames (Original Name: Lea)

"Got it memorized?"

Appearances: Act 2: Fragmented Truths|The Year Between|Act 3: All That's Left

"Kid, you're forgetting something real important. I'm a Nobody. Sure, I can fake feeling all I want, but deep down, it won't change a thing. All I really care about is making it another day. Getting my heart back, and if that means selling out a couple of kids, I'll do it without a second thought."

—Axel to Roxas

Number VIII in the Organization. A charismatic assassin whose allegiance is shaky at best. He sporadically assists the heroes from time to time.

---

• Adaptational Backstory Change: Lea and Isa were test subjects in Terra-Xehanort's experiments as opposed to apprentices of Ansem the Wise as Kingdom Hearts III revealed.
• Adaptational Jerkass: Downplayed. Unlike in canon, Axel is not best friends with Roxas and Xion. As a result, the softer side of his personality stemming from his friendship with them never develops.
• Adaptation Origin Connection: Inverted. As well as the above with Roxas, Axel never befriends Xion due to him falling out with Roxas prior to meeting her.
• Adaptation Relationship Overhaul: Due to Roxas having an established set of friends from the get-go, he and Axel are not best friends. Though they do eventually befriend each other, they're not nearly as close as they are in canon.
• Motor Mouth: Distracts Zexion by talking his ear off in order to help the Mirror Trio desert the Organization at the end of Fragmented Truths.
• Token Good Teammate: Downplayed. Though he lacks empathy and is morally ambiguous at best, Axel does occasionally act as an ally to the heroes, warning them of threats posed by his cohorts. Roxas eventually tries to convince Axel to join their side to no avail.

Demyx (IX)

The Melodious Nocturne (Original Name: Unknown)

Appearances: Act 2: Fragmented Truths|The Year Between|Act 3: All That's Left|Side Stories: Shadows of the Past

"So, uh. Remind me again why I have to do this? Come on, can't you send Xaldin? Or Lexaeus? Or, hey. Luxord! You've been itching for some action. …Right?"

Number IX in the Organization. A slacker who would rather bum around the castle playing his sitar than do any work.

---

• Affably Evil: Is relaxed and cordial despite being firmly on the side of evil.
• Climax Boss: Alongside Xigbar in The Year Between. The duo launch a surprise attack in Disney Town during the Dream Festival in order to coax the heroes into rebrandishing their Keyblades. This takes place at the culmination of Riku Replica's character arc preceeding the story's final act.
• Dumbass Has a Point: He's not wrong when he points out how long it took before the Organization began replenishing their ranks, especially after losing five members.
• Epic Fail: Once lost a game of poker to a Moogle.
  Hey! That Moogle was a dirty, stinkin' cheater, and one of these days I'll prove it!
• Friendly Enemy: Played with. Though Aqua knew Demyx was an enemy, she found it difficult to begrudge him due to his awkward demeanor and gave him a shy smile.
  Xiruk: Just don't get too chummy. Demyx may look like a clown, but I've seen him at his worst. Never looked at water the same way since…
• Large Ham: He has his moments.
  [Upon meeting Young Xehanort] WOAH! Are you Xemnas's KID?!
• Making a Splash: Wields power over water.
• The Slacker: Tries to get away with doing as little work as possible.
• Plucky Comic Relief: The most comical member of the Organization.

Luxord (X)

The Gambler of Fate (Original Name: Unknown)

Appearances: Act 2: Fragmented Truths|The Year Between|Act 3: All That's Left|Side Stories: Shadows of the Past

"It isn't wise to question a winning hand, Demyx. As of now, our dear Master Aqua has no choice but to ante up. What she brings to the table remains to be seen, but I have faith our Superior will reap the spoils one way or another."

Number X in the Organization. Suave and smooth-talking, Luxord sees life as a game to be won.

---

• Affably Evil: Easily one of the most polite members of the Organization.
• The Gambler: A passionate gambler who treats his missions as games to be won. He also reguarly plays poker with his comrades.
• The Power of Hate: Invokes this in order to push Prince John over the edge.
  You're letting your fear overwhelm your fury. If you wish to conquer the darkness, let rage be your weapon! Allow your thirst for vengeance to cloud any lingering doubts. With hatred as your creed, nothing shall stand in your way!
• Rat Men: Takes the form of one during his visit to Baker Street. His long nose even sticks out from under his hood.
• Wicked Weasel: Becomes one through the use of Yzma's potions to blend in with the world of Nottingham.

Marluxia & Larxene (XI-XII)

The Graceful Assassin and the Savage Nymph

Appearances: Act 2: Fragmented Truths|The Year Between|Act 3: All That's Left

"Marluxia and Larxene aren't like the Heartless. They're smart, ruthless, and they wouldn't think twice about hurting a kid if it means getting through to me."

— Riku Replica to The Ducklings

A duo of treacherous Nobodies who are planning a coup against the Organization. They spend much of The Year Between hunting the Replica and Naminé in hopes of acquiring their own Keyblade. When that fails, they form a secret alliance with Xion, manipulating her whilst pretending to be her friends. Having lost their memories, they also seek answers on their past lives.

Tropes applying to both of them

• Arc Villain: For the majority of Riku Replica's plotline in The Year Between.
• Enemy Mine: They team up with the heroes in the climax of Act 3's Arendelle arc.
• Faking the Dead: They fake their deaths upon their defeat in The Year Between, allowing them to work from the shadows.
• False Friend: Knowing full well the abuse she suffered at the hands of DiZ, the duo befriends Xion and gains her trust whilst manipulating her to do their bidding.
• Hate Sink: The two are vile, sadistic and cruel. Gradually subverted late during All That's Left when they begin to regain traces of their humanity from their time in Castle Oblivion.
• Heel Realization: After their experience and subsequent defeat in Castle Oblivion, Marluxia and Larxene have to come to terms with the knowledge that they used to be better.
  Larxene: ...You’re not acting like yourself.
  Marluxia: At this point, how would you even define ‘ourselves’? We were Keybearers, Larxene. We were… good people...
  Larxene: ...Ha. Now there’s a thought. Me, good. Pretty sure good people don’t slap little girls and leave them out in the cold.
• Identity Amnesia: This is the reason behind their interest in Castle Oblivion, a place which holds power over memories.
• Laser-Guided Karma: After their final defeat, they end up at the mercy of Xion; the very person whom they manipulated and groomed into a Human Weapon, who now has the power to force them to follow her whims.
• Toxic Friend Influence: They are clearly not good role models for Xion.
• Used to Be a Sweet Kid: In their past, Lauriam and Elrena were kind, soft-spoken and noble youths; a stark contrast to the cold, cruel manipulators they became.
• Would Hurt a Child: They make it clear that they're more than willing to harm Huey, Dewey, Louie and Webby to get to Riku Replica and Naminé.

Tropes exclusive to Marluxia (Original Name: Lauriam)

^{Click here to see Lauriam}

"I could. With the right amount of pressure, I could easily break (Xion). Turn her into a hopeless pawn. However, a partnership born from fear often withers over time. The girl has already experienced such strife under DiZ's command. Thus, it is in our best interest to form an alliance based on mutual trust."

---

• Became Their Own Antithesis: Lauriam, once a kind and heroic youth, became the cold, manipulative Marluxia.
• Becoming the Mask: As he regains traces of his humanity in Castle Oblivion, Marluxia does begin to genuinely care for Xion.
• Big Brother Instinct: Played for Laughs during Act 3's Castle Oblivion Arc, when Xion notices Xiruk's scent while an apparition of Strelitzia is nearby.
  Xion. Please don't sniff my sister.
• Evil Mentor: To Xion, whom he takes on as an "apprentice".
• Faux Affably Evil: Unlike his partner, Marluxia uses a polite, amicable facade to conceal his true nature.
• Know When to Fold 'Em: When King Mickey comes to the Replica's aid, Marluxia decides to stop pursuing him... and go after Xion instead.
• Manipulative Bastard: Forms a friendship with Xion in order to exploit her Keyblade.
  You don't have to believe me. Whether you choose to follow me or not is ultimately your choice. However, I want you to know that you're no puppet in my eyes. DiZ may have seen you as a pawn, but when I look at you, I see a brave young woman with endless potential.
• You Killed My Father: Tries to kill Ventus after seeing a memory of the former killing his sister. ^note Due to Marluxia's memories being corrupted and incomplete, he didn't know that Ventus was possessed by Darkness at the time.

Tropes exclusive to Larxene (Original Name: Elrena)

"You can't tell me that after all this time, you actually want them to live. Isn't there a small part of you that wants to tear them to pieces? Don't you want to make them suffer?"

— Larxene to Xion

The Organization's XII, who plans a coup with Marluxia. Larxene was once a Keybearer in the Age of Fairytales; a life she has long since forgotten. She and Marluxia spend much of The Year Between hunting the Replica and Naminé in hopes of acquiring their own Keyblade. When that fails, they set their sights on Xion.

---

• Alpha Bitch: Very much behaves like one. Though she wasn't always like this.
• Ax-Crazy: Even when acting as an ally to the heroes, Larxene makes little effort to conceal her bloodthirsty nature.
• Deadpan Snarker: Her cruelty is matched only by her sarcasm. Had shades of this even in her past life.
• Jerkass: Is not a pleasant person, to say the least.
• Kick the Dog: Slaps Xion and screams in her face when the latter nearly blows their cover in Arendelle.
• Large Ham: Especially when she's frustrated.
  [To Kristoff] FINE! IT'S YOUR MIGRAINE, DUCK-LOVER!
• Laughing Mad: Cackles like a hyena during battle.
• Pet the Dog: Has a couple during the Castle Oblivion arc, indicating that she's beginning to regain traces of her humanity.
  • Gives Xion some encouraging words in regards to the latter's identity crisis, albeit in a manner telling her to Grow A Spine.
    Get a grip, kid. If this is how you see yourself…[Gestures to a projection of Xion's face] Then that’s you. Not this. [Gestures to the "Riku" side of her face] Grow a backbone already. You’re the only one who gets to decide what you ar—HEY, SHUT UP, I’M TALKING!
  • She refers to Xion as a "good kid" while trying to kill Ventus.
• Psycho Knife Nut: An Ax-Crazy lady with a set of kunai.
• Sadist: One of her defining traits.
• Shock and Awe: Wields power over lightning.
• Slasher Smile: Sports one when Olaf ponders the idea of sitting by a fireplace. Marluxia nudges her to cut it out.
• The Smurfette Principle: Due to Xion's Adaptational Backstory Change, Larxene is the only female member of the Organization in this continuity.
• Taking You with Me: Tries this when Xemnas impales her fatally, and would very well have succeeded had Aqua and Xiruk not intervened.
  Smart move… but now… I’ve got you right where I want you. If I’m going down, then I’m dragging you to hell with me!

Roxas (XIII)

Roxas (Original Name: Sora)

See: Protagonists: Mirror Trio

Nahxs (XIV)

Nahxs (Original Name: Hans)

Appearances: Act 3: All That's Left

"We must account for our losses one way or another, but Nobodies of our form and ability seldom surface. The man you see before you is an even more peculiar case; if what Xaldin says is true, he had long since cast his heart away before we even set foot in his world…"

— Xemnas

The Organization's XIV and their newest recruit. Nahxs willingly cast away his heart and became a Nobody long before joining the Organization. For more information, see: Disney Villains: Hans.

The Old Friend — (UNMARKED SPOILERS)

Terra

"But I suppose to you, I'm yet another soul who has gone... astray."

Appearances: Act 1: The Antipode|Act 2: Fragmented Truths|The Year Between|Act 3: All That's Left|Side Stories: A Crossing of Halves,Erosion

"Whatever the cost, I'm ready to pay it."

Xemnas' true identity. While initially believed to be Xehanort possessing Terra, it is revealed in All That's Left that Xemnas is actually Terra's Nobody, left a hollow shell of his former self after breaking free from Xehanort's control. Donning the mask of his sworn enemy, Terra has spend the past decade dismantling Xehanort's scheme whilst pursuing his own agenda.

---

• Adaptational Badass: Xemnas has all of Terra's abilities, though he chooses not to use them in order to hide his identity. Though he can wield the No Name Keyblade, Terra avoids using it due to it being a reminder of the man who ruined his life.^note It should be noted that the Birth By Sleep Ultimania suggests that Xemnas can use a Keyblade but intentionally chooses not to, though this was not touched upon in the games.
• Adaptational Heroism: ZigZagged. This iteration of Xemnas, being Terra's Nobody rather than Xehanort's, is decidedly more sympathetic than his canon counterpart, with nobler intentions and more redeeming qualities. However...
• Adaptational Villainy: The fact remains that Terra, an unambiguously heroic character in the source material, underwent a Big Bad Slippage and became an Anti-Villain of his own volition prior to the events of the story.
• Adaptation Relationship Overhaul: Xemnas' connection to Xehanort is changed drastically: while canon Xemnas is one of Xehanort's numerous incarnations, in Antipode, Xemnas is instead Terra's Nobody; thus making him a sworn enemy of Xehanort rather than another version of him.
• Affably Evil: Despite his lack of a heart, Terra retains shades of his former kindhearted and gentle demeanour.
• Anti-Villain: A Well-Intentioned Extremist whose ultimate goal is to harness the Artificial Kingdom Hearts to create a perfect world without suffering.
• Berserk Button: Downplayed. Though his lack of a heart prevents him from feeling emotion, there are occasions when Terra show a facsimile of anger.
  • He typically reacts with disdain when people identify him as Xehanort. However, when the Lingering Will; his own heart implies that he's no better than the man who ruined his life, Terra snaps "I'm nothing like Xehanort!" out of raw impulse.
  • He seems downright offended when Sora calls him a liar for saying that he won't hurt Aqua.
• Big Bad Friend: Is this to Aqua, Ventus and to a lesser extent, Riku.
• Emotion Suppression: Terra has done all he can to delay the development of a new heart. Experience has taught him that his emotions held him back. That because he was weak, Xehanort was able to take control. Really, it's no wonder he fell short of expectations.
• Even Evil Has Loved Ones: Holds a significant degree of attachment to his old friends Aqua and Ventus as well as Riku and has gone out of his way to ensure their safety despite the threat they pose to his plans.
• Even Evil Has Standards:
  • Is disgusted at the age-old practice of Keyblade Masters possessing the bodies of others in order to live on for eternity. Justified due to him being a victim of this practice.
  • Feels pity towards Saïx due to the latter being possessed with a seed of Xehanort's heart as a child.
  • Is genuinely shocked when he sees Aqua's memory of Snow White's death.
• Evil Sounds Deep: Invoked. Xemnas speaks in a deep baritone while masquerading as Xehanort. In private, he uses his normal voice, which sounds identical to Terra's.
• Evil vs. Evil: Is actively working against Xehanort and doing everything he can to ensure that Xehanort's plans never come to fruition. This naturally pits him against Young Xehanort and Xigbar (who have yet to uncover his true identity).
  • Naturally, Terra stands directly at odds against Marluxia and Larxene; two traitors from within his own Organization. This only goes further when the treacherous duo infiltrates Castle Oblivion, Terra's own childhood home, before trying to kill Ventus.
• Face–Heel Turn: With no guiding lights nor a heart to feel emotions, Terra underwent a Big Bad Slippage prior to the events of the story.
• Fallen Hero: After freeing himself from Xehanort's influence, Terra was reborn as a Nobody. Scarred with Xehanort's knowledge, he took it upon himself to set things right. He donned the mask of Xehanort and founded Organization XIII whilst amassing a synthetic Kingdom Hearts in hopes of creating a new world.
• Feels No Pain: Terra is glad that his heart remains trapped within the Lingering Will where his festering emotions cannot constantly influence him. Subverted on occasion. Sporadically, the Lingering Will confronts him on their Station of Awakening and forces him to feel every ounce of guilt and sorrow carried within their heart.
• Foreshadowing: There are several clues to Xemnas's true identity.
  • Prior to his first appearance in Hollow Bastion, Cinderella notes something familiar about Xemnas, as though she met him before. This alludes to her encounter with Terra in Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep.
  • Ventus is incredibly distressed by Xemnas's appearance and immediately recognizes him as Terra. He remembers what Vanitas said in Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep:
    He's leaving you behind. And by the time you catch up... he'll be a different person.
  • Xemnas's words to Riku Replica before sending him to Castle Oblivion:
    If you truly wish to protect the things that matter, then it is in your best interest to proceed.
  • Xemnas reacted positively to the revelation that Axel's meddling saved Riku's life, despite said meddling costing the Organization greatly.
  • His reaction to learning of Aqua's return:
    Of all the times you could have returned... Fate truly is a fickle thing.
  • His first meeting with Aqua is full of this:
    But I suppose to you, I'm yet another soul who has gone... astray.
    • When he, Zexion and Xigbar stood over a wounded Aqua, Xemnas got down and treated her open wound with a Hi-Potion.
    • Due to Xigbar's presence, Xemnas lied that he planned to cast Aqua back into the Realm of Darkness, when in reality, he intended on sending her to the Chamber of Repose.
    • He protected Aqua when DiZ threatened to kill her to impede the Organization's plans.
    • When Xemnas was nearly killed, Aqua healed him at the last moment, indicating that she saw a trace of her old friend in him.
  • The ending of The Year Between has two separate instances:
    • Xemnas is revealed to visit the Keyblade Graveyard regularly and looks over the Lingering Will.
    What a pitiful sight...
    • The final scene shows Xemnas speaking with an empty suit of armor in the Chamber of Repose, much like in Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix. This time, however, he refers to the armor as "Aqua".
  • This exchange when Riku first sees Xemnas' face in All That's Left:
    Xemnas: Are you alarmed by my appearance? It's quite peculiar… Some time ago, Sora asked if I knew anyone by the name of Terra. I can't imagine why…
    Riku: Because you're...
    Xemnas: I'm what, exactly?
    Riku: You're... Xehanort, aren't you?
    Xemnas: [Hollow laugh] I am Xemnas, Superior of the Organization. However, if that is what you wish to call me, then by all means, do what you will. In the end, it changes nothing…
• Freudian Excuse Is No Excuse: Aqua and Xiruk note that, though Terra's backstory and circumstances are sympathetic, they don't excuse the many atrocities he committed.
• Friend to All Children: Retained shades of this upon formation. Even without his heart, Terra couldn't bring himself to kill Xigbar in front of a young Zexion. Rather than strongarming the child into remaining silent, Xemnas gently revealed to Zexion his true identity and trusted him to keep it a secret. Any traces of this are long gone by the events of the story, where Xemnas inflicts psychological abuse on Riku Replica and Naminé with little remorse.
• He Who Fights Monsters: Terra's actions in manipulating others and dooming worlds in pursuit of Kingdom Hearts have arguably made him no better than Xehanort. The Lingering Will is well aware of this and lampshades it when confronting him on their Station of Awakening.
  But we all know who you really are, Xehanort.
• It Is Beyond Saving: Terra has grown tired of the endless cycle which sees the worlds falling to darkness while the people with the power to make a change (eg: Yen Sid) do nothing to help, instead relying on Keyblade-wielding children to solve their problems. Believing the universe to be beyond saving, Terra intends to use the artificial Kingdom Hearts to remake the world and purge the corruption which permeates this cycle.
• Literal Split Personality: Upon breaking free from Xehanort's control prior to the events of the story, Terra was split into two beings: his Nobody adopted the name Xemnas and formed Organization XIII while his heart, and by extension his conscious, remained trapped within the Lingering Will.
• Kick the Morality Pet: Despite longing for the company of his old friends, Terra holds a great deal of resentment towards Aqua due to their fallout in Birth By Sleep and has allowed said bitterness to fester over the past decade without a heart to mediate. During Act 3's Castle Oblivion arc, Terra guilt trips Aqua with a manipulative tour of his memories, berating her for all the ways she had hurt him. Though his accusations aren't wrong, the toxic manner in which Terra lashes out at her prompts Aqua to retaliate in kind.
• My God, What Have I Done?: ZigZagged. Though Terra takes no pleasure in the atrocities he commits, his status as a Nobody prevents him from feeling guilt. However, his heart (which remains trapped within the Lingering Will) is forced to shoulder the guilt of their crimes, and it periodically forces Xemnas to feel said emotions.
  • Upon his awakening, Xemnas remembered not only his life as Terra, but every atrocity he committed under Xehanort's control.
    In the time I spent grappling with Xehanort's heart, so many people suffered. So many people got swept off the streets. Parents. Children. I practically tore their hearts from their bodies. That's not something I can forget. I can't undo it either.
• Never Be Hurt Again: A big reason why he looks down on his past self is because his emotions and naivety were what allowed Xehanort to take advantage of him.
• Pet the Dog: In spite of how much he's changed, Terra does have moments where he shows traces of the kindness he once held.
  • Returns Aqua's armor to her out of a genuine concern for her well-being.
  • When confronted over a year later, Terra apologizes sincerely to Xiruk for mistreating him and his friends.
  • He also grabs Xiruk's wrist to prevent him from falling in Castle Oblivion.
  • He empathizes with Xion's fear of losing her identity, having gone through the exact same thing himself.
  • After Aqua threw him Master's Defender in a desperate bid to save his life, Terra returns their former Master's Keyblade to her as a token of goodwill.
  • In the aftermath of Ventus' awakening, Terra detains a feral Sora in a more spacious cell than before, complete with a bed and several cushions, knowing full well how important he is Ven.
• Pre Ass Kicking One Liner: Terra spouts one when he and Aqua (and Xiruk) confront Marluxia, Larxene and Xion in Castle Oblivion.
  You are only a vandal in my house, Marluxia. But now you face the King and Queen of Castle Oblivion.
• "The Reason You Suck" Speech: Berates Aqua for the ways her doubt and distrust had driven him away during the events of Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep.
  Aqua: But, Terra, we saw—
  Terra: What you wanted to see. Not a partner. Not an equal. And not an opponent. Only the desperate dreamer that the Masters wished me to be, willing to do whatever it took to match your light…
  Aqua: No, that’s not—
  Terra: Aqua…I only ever supported you. But the Master put it in your mind that I was beneath you. I couldn’t match your light, so I must have been willing to do whatever it took to get there. But nothing could be further from the truth.
  • In response to his manipulations, Aqua retaliates in kind.
    Aqua: You believed all this time that I had no faith in you. That I doubted you once, so I’d doubt you forever. I loved you, Terra. And I trusted you would win. I gave up everything because I believed in you. That’s why, for all the hell I went through in the Realm of Darkness…nothing hurt me more than the day I learned what you’d become.
  • The above instance is immediately followed by some harsh words from Terra's own conscious.
    Lingering Will: This was bound to happen. You did this to yourself.
• Related in the Adaptation: Due to his status as Terra's Nobody, Xemnas shares a connection with the Lingering Will, which contains his heart.
• The Reveal: Xemnas is Terra's Nobody. During the fall of Radiant Garden, Terra was able to free himself from Xehanort's control at the cost of losing his heart and becoming a Nobody.
• Spanner in the Works: Due to his identity as Terra, Xemnas is vehemently opposed to Xehanort's plan to fill thirteen vessels with seeds of his heart and has gone out of his way to derail that scheme whilst pursuing his own agenda.
• Sunk Cost Fallacy: Deep down, Terra secretly wishes to discard the "mask" of Xemnas and rejoin his old friends on the side of good. However, doing so would mean that all the atrocities he committed and allowed in pursuit of his goal would be for naught, thus, he pushes on with his plan to create a new world.
• Supernatural Gold Eyes: As a result of his past possession at the hands of Xehanort. Aqua notes that they're the same colour as his Wayfinder.
  Even now, he's left his mark. These eyes… They're… an asset. No one else will know the truth.
• Took a Level in Cynic: In stark contrast to the naive idealist he once was, Terra's possession at the hands of Xehanort and his experiences thereafter have made him incredibly world-weary. He even lampshades this during his confrontation with Marluxia and Larxene.
  I’m not a fool. Used to be. There was a time where I was warm. Open. Trusting… And that trust cost me everything.
• Took a Level in Jerkass: Ten years of living as an emotionless husk have changed Terra from a kind, warm-hearted youth to a cold, bitter manipulator.
• Tragic Keepsake: Has several of these. Along with Aqua's armor and Keyblade, he also keeps his Wayfinder in his pocket at all times. He also scavenged and repaired his childhood wooden Keyblade.
  Zexion: You held onto the armor…
  Xemnas: Indeed. It is… a reminder of an old friend.
  Zexion: That's oddly sentimental of you.
  Xemnas: Perhaps. I see it as an anchor, lest I lose myself entirely to this charade.
• Unrelated in the Adaptation: Is Terra's Nobody rather than Xehanort's. Thus, Xemnas has no relation to any of Xehanort's incarnations such as Ansem or Young Xehanort.
• Villainous Rescue: During Riku's battle with Ansem in the Simulation, Xemnas appeared to the former in the form of Terra and gave him a pep talk, thus giving him the strength he needed to keep going.^note  It should be noted that those who entered the Simulation appeared the way Riku last saw them. As he had yet to see Xemnas without his hood up, the latter appeared the way Riku last remembered seeing him.
  Giving up already? I know you're stronger than that.
  • Terra also saved Aqua from certain death at the hands of the Cyclops Titan.
• Walking Spoiler: It's impossible to discuss Terra's role in the story without giving away the twist that he (or his Nobody) is the villain.
• Well-Intentioned Extremist: Though he is well aware of the depravity of his actions, Terra genuinely believes them to be for the greater good.
• Wham Line: Has a few.
  • At the end of his encounter with Sora in Fragmented Truths:
  You'll understand soon enough... Ven.
  • When speaking with Aqua's armor in the ending of The Year Between.
  This past year has been truly enlightening… Unfortunately, I cannot allow you to continue down this reckless path. You see, after more than a decade of careful planning… years of waiting, of biding my time, my efforts have nearly reached fruition, and I refuse to abandon my ambitions for anyone, including you… Aqua.
  • During The Reveal in All That's Left:
  Allow me to put it this way, then… You were right, Aqua. And so was the Master. I did need to be watched. Unfortunately, there was nobody left to light the way.
• Wham Shot: Xemnas brings Aqua and Xiruk into a hidden room within The Castle That Never Was, revealing a near-perfect recreation of Terra's room in the Land of Departure. He even takes out his Wayfinder to hammer the point home.
• White Hair, Black Heart: Inherited this from Xehanort after being possessed by him and, tragically, Terra himself became a villain in his own right.
• Yandere: A non-romantic example. Having spent years searching for his old friends, Terra secretly longs for the company of Aqua and Ventus and is willing to disregard their wishes and resort to manipulation to keep them close to him.
  The three of us can never be torn apart. I'll always find a way.
• "You Used to Be Better" Speech: On the recieving end of this from the Lingering Will.
  Lingering Will: I know you can be better than this. Because we were better. But, if you stay on this path, I'll drown you in the ocean of every regret you've run away from.

---