Editing Axel

{{Game|COM|REC|KH2|FM2|358}}
{{InfoboxOrg13
|name=Axel 
|kana=アクセル 
|romaji=''Akuseru''
|image=[[Image:Axel Days 2.png|250px]]
|game=Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories; Kingdom Hearts II
|number=VIII
|title=''The Flurry of Dancing Flames''
|weapon=Chakrams ''(Eternal Flames)''
|attribute={{nihongo|Flame|炎|Honō}}
|limit=Explosion
|role=Assistant
|first=''[[Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories]]''
|original={{nihongo|Lea|リア|Ria}}
|engvoice= [[wikipedia:Keiji Fujiwara|Keiji Fujiwara]] <small>(''COM'')</small><br>[[wikipedia:Quinton Flynn|Quinton Flynn]] <small>(''KHII'', ''Re:COM'', ''Days'') 
|japvoice=[[wikipedia:Keiji Fujiwara|Keiji Fujiwara]] 
}}
{{Q|My show now, Keyblade master. Who am I? Oh, my name's Axel. Got it memorized?|Axel}}
'''Axel''', the {{nihongo|''Flurry of Dancing Flames''|おどる火の風|Odoru Hi no Kaze}}, is Rank VIII within [[Organization XIII]]. He wields fire and enchants his weapons, twin chakrams, with his pyrokinesis to unleash powerful rapid attacks. He commands the [[Assassin]] Nobodies. 

In ''[[Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories]]'', Axel was the Trump card for the rest of the Organization as a double agent in [[Castle Oblivion]] to keep track of [[Marluxia]]'s plans. In ''[[Kingdom Hearts II]]'', Axel betrayed the Organization for his friendship with [[Roxas]] and acted of his own accord to try and help [[Sora]]. Axel appears in ''[[Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days]]'' as a playable character. 

Axel is the [[Nobody]] of '''Lea''', which was revealed in the Day 356 Secret Report and also mentioned by [[Saïx]]. This man had a connection to Saïx's original persona.
==Journal Entries==
===''[[Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days]]''===

''No. VIII AXEL''

''An assassin who puts his own agenda first, and everything else on the back burner. Wields '''fire'''.''

''Weapon: Chakrams''

===''[[Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories]]''===
*'''Sora's Story'''
''A mysterious figure who stands in Sora's path.''

''Hard to read, half the time Axel seems to just be messing around... but for all we know, he's done more thinking than everyone else put together.''

''He know's a lot more than he let's on.''

*'''Reverse/Rebirth'''

''No. 8 in the Organization.''

''He is a Nobody whose intentions and secrets are hidden from all.''

''Axel has no qualms about exploiting others to suit his needs. He used Sora and Naminé to silence Marluxia and halt his plot against the Organization.''

''Axel claims he and Sora have something in common, but that connection is unclear.''

===''[[Kingdom Hearts II]]''===
''Organization XIII's Number VIII. He commands fire and carries a uniquely-shaped weapon.''

''He is the former mentor of Roxas. He would give anything to get him back.''

''He has proven to be an odd duck of sorts within the Organization, lashing out against treachery, yet stirring troubles with his own betrayals all the while.''

''He claims he and Sora share some sort of bond, but Sora can't imagine what that might be.''

==Origin==
{{Q|We have to set things right. There is simply too much on the line... Lea.|Saïx revealing Axel's true name during their conversation over Roxas and Xion at The World That Never Was in ''Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days''.}}
Before becoming a Nobody, the character we know as Axel was a man named Lea (pronounced "Lee"). Lea was friends with Saïx's original persona, the two planning to take over Organization XIII together. Once Lea joined, his name changed to Axel, Saïx's original persona's name changed to the latter. Identities weren't the only things that changed, however, as Saïx changed to an emotionless, calm Nobody in terms of personality. Axel's personality remained more or less unchanged. This caused the bond Axel and Saïx shared as humans to break. Over time, Axel possibly forgot about their human selves' plans or chose to keep them secret and not think about them, as Saïx became Xemnas's second-in-command. He was later reminded by his old friend about the plans they once had. Saïx even addressed Axel by his original name. Lea and Saïx's original persona's friendship later turned into a hostility, as seen in ''Kingdom Hearts II''.

==Story==

===''[[ Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep]]''===

It was been confirmed that Axel's human form, Lea, will appeared in ''Birth by Sleep'' alongside with Saïx's human form as children.

===  ''[[Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days]] & [[Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories]]'' ===
[[File:AxelDaysFace.png|left]]
[[File:AxelRoxasXion.png|thumb|right]]
After inducting Roxas into the Organization, Xemnas places him under Axel's tutelage. The Nobodies begin to bond, eating [[sea-salt ice cream]] together at the [[Twilight Town]] Train Station after missions. As their friendship grows strong, Axel began to demonstrate emotions due to his time with Roxas. Axel is also present when [[Xion]] joins the Organization, but is sent to [[Castle Oblivion]] to deal with the traitorous [[Marluxia]]. Having received these orders through Saïx, the second-in-command, it would appear that Axel also planned to eliminate other members who could stop their plans for the Organization.

====Castle Oblivion====
{|border="0" align="right"
|[[Image:Axel-ChOfMem.png]]
|[[Image:Axel2-ChofMem.png]]
|}
{{Q|You didn't think after that introduction, I would give up oh so easily?|commenting on Sora's behavior after he purposely allowed himself to be defeated in the first battle.}}
In ''[[Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories]]'' while [[Sora]] and [[Riku]] wandered around in [[Castle Oblivion]], Axel worked for the two parties of the already divided Organization in the castle. One side, Marluxia and [[Larxene]], sought to use [[Sora]]'s powers to usurp Xemnas and the rest of the Organization while using [[Naminé]] to alter Sora's memories. Those who stayed in the castle basement were [[Vexen]], [[Lexaeus]], and [[Zexion]]—three of the original members of [[Organization XIII]]. The three realized Marluxia's ambitions and tried to counteract by using Riku to destroy Sora. At first, Axel joined the rebel group, though his intentions at that decision point remained unclear. 

Upon throwing the first battle with Sora, Axel admitted to testing the Keyblade master's strength. Being the first Organization member to reveal his face, Axel gave up a card created from Sora's memories for him to progress further in the castle. After leaving Sora bewildered, Axel holds a serious conversation with Larxene in which he professes an interest in the fact that Sora retains his self-consciousness even after becoming a [[Heartless]].

After Vexen nearly reveals the existence of Roxas to Sora, Axel was ordered by Marluxia to dispose of him. Axel did so effortlessly, and was at last accepted by Marluxia and Larxene into their conspiracy. Using this to his advantage, Axel allowed Naminé to escape and contact Sora. He later confronted Marluxia, allowing him to figure out that he acted as a double agent during their entire time in the castle. Citing his previous order to rid the Organization of traitors, Axel readied to attack Marluxia, even after Marluxia used Naminé as a shield, but was interrupted by Sora, whom he eventually fought for the last time. At the end of the battle, Axel pretended to be defeated and confused Sora with the words "It was worth saving you after all," and vanished. 

After his battle with Sora, Axel met with Zexion in the castle basement. Zexion brought up the subject of Riku and requested data on [[Destiny Islands]] in the form of a card. Despite their previous collaboration, Axel later offered [[Riku Replica]] the honor of killing Zexion, promising the duplicate that he would gain new powers and be able to defeat the real Riku. The exact reason for Axel's betrayal is not stated, and seems self-contradictory after he had helped stop Marluxia's betrayal, though it was true that both sides of the Organization members in Castle Oblivion had their own ideas for betrayal. Axel commented that it would be more interesting to see Sora and Riku's future than to save Zexion; however, this may have had something to do with Axel's friendship with Roxas, which could have been the reason why he effortlessly destroyed Vexen—to prevent either Sora or Roxas from meeting. 

In ''Re: Chain of Memories'', Axel stated the reason for his betrayal of Zexion, saying: "You just found out way too much." This seems to be quite ambiguous, as in ''Re:Chain of Memories'' Axel and Zexion were shown to be friendly with each other (e.g. in one scene it was shown that Zexion and Axel were making bets on which Organization members in the Castle would be the next to die, something that Axel wins when he accurately predicts that Marluxia will be the next to fall).

==== Return to the World That Never Was ====

When Axel returns to [[the World That Never Was]], he feels that Roxas has replaced him with Xion. Axel becomes jealous, not sure exactly what to make of Xion. At Roxas' suggestion, the three begin to spend time together as a trio.

Some time later, Axel finds himself before Saïx, and reveals that he regrets not being able to talk with Saïx as he could with Roxas and Xion. Saïx reminds Axel of the friendship they shared before becoming Nobodies, and the plans they had to take over the Organization.

After discovering who and what she was, Xion began wanting to leave the Organization. He eventually catches her in front of Roxas despite his pleas, though she eventually escapes again. Roxas would eventually follow suit and leave the Organization. Axel, who has enjoyed the time he spent with his best friend, is distraught by Roxas' decision.

Axel and Xion end up battling again in front of the Old Mansion in Twilight Town, with Axel claiming he would do "whatever it took to bring her back". Axel manages to knock Xion unconscious and bring her back to the [[Castle That Never Was]], but faints from fatigue. Xemnas then reprograms Xion with her machine-like forms and then she attacks Roxas in an attempt to absorb him. 

She fails and "returns to Sora" through Roxas, convincing him that he needs to stop Xemnas and 'set Kingdom Hearts free.' After returning to his quarters, Axel discovers a popsicle stick which reads "WINNER", a gift left by Roxas.

===''Kingdom Hearts II''===
Plagued with questions as to why he has a [[Keyblade]] and subconsciously seeking out Sora, Roxas leaves the Organization. Axel, who found companionship in Roxas, is distraught by this decision.

Shortly afterward, Roxas is captured by Riku and put in [[Ansem the Wise|DiZ]]'s [[Digital Twilight Town]] where his memory is wiped and replaced with an artificial one, leading him to believe he is a normal teenager. Axel is sent to the simulated town to bring Roxas back to the Organization; however, his first effort failed due to DiZ's appearance and the restarting of the Twilight Town program. Roxas was dumbfounded by Axel's appearance, lacking any memories of him and awareness of what was going on. Pressed by the threats by [[Xaldin]] and [[Xemnas]], Axel again tries to recover Roxas without killing him, keeping in mind the Organization's order to either eliminate Roxas or be destroyed himself. Roxas learns that the two had been best friends from [[Naminé]] and mentions this to Axel, but his bluff is called when he is unable to remember "''their [[Xemnas|boss]]'s name.''" DiZ then intervenes and Roxas escapes for the Twilight Town mansion. The two meet again at this mansion in the computer room basement. Despite Roxas's recovery of his memories, Axel is hurt from his previous encounter with Roxas and fights him and his dual Keyblades. Axel loses the fight and disappears, choosing not to carry out his mission. 

While Sora reawakens with Roxas inside him, Axel is entrusted by Riku to protect Naminé. Naminé's words, about those who are dear to them despite being Nobodies, strangely moved Axel.

====A Second Chance With Sora====
{{Q|The guy you just saw. He's their leader. Got it memorized? X-E-M, N-A-S.|telling Sora about the Organization's superior, Xemnas}}
[[File:Axel.png|thumb|132px|Axel as he appears in Kingdom Hearts II]]

During Sora's exploits to the different worlds, Axel appeared before [[Kairi]] on a beach across Destiny Islands, intending to kidnap her to draw Sora out. Axel's plan was simple; if Sora were to become a Heartless again, then Roxas would be reborn. However, Kairi escaped through a [[Corridor of Darkness]] created by Riku and landed in [[Twilight Town]] where she stayed for some time in wait of Sora. Axel, however, followed her to the town and stole her away again, but not long afterward she was taken captive by [[Saïx]] who was under orders to give Axel something to actually worry about. After the invasion of the [[Radiant Garden]] by the Heartless, Sora confronted Xemnas, the leader of the Organization. Xemnas decided to take his leave and Axel later greeted Sora. Axel hinted that the Keyblade caused the hearts that composed the Heartless to flee, but refused to say what Organization XIII would do with those hearts. Sora realized that Axel is Kairi's captor, and Axel confirmed this. Though initially seeming unrepentant for his actions, he soon apologized for kidnapping Kairi, and made a hasty exit when Saïx appeared.

====Death====
{{q|He...was the only one I liked...he made me feel...like I had a heart. It's kinda...funny. You make me feel...the same....|referring to how Sora reminded him of Roxas}}
On the way to [[The World That Never Was]], Sora, [[Donald]], [[Goofy]], and [[King Mickey]] are trapped in [[Betwixt and Between]] by Nobodies, but Axel arrives to help. Sora and Axel battled the Nobodies, but seeing that the [[Dusk]]'s numbers were too great, Axel decided to put every bit of his energy into one massive attack to destroy the Nobodies and save Sora, who stayed with him until the moment he faded. He sincerely apologized to Sora for getting Kairi involved. Confused, Sora asked him what he was trying to do and Axel confessed that he wanted to see Roxas, the only one who made him feel like he had a heart. Oddly enough for Axel, Sora made him feel the same way (possibly since Sora and Roxas are one in the same) and used these final words to urge Sora on to rescue Kairi. Axel opened the passageway to the World That Never Was with the last bit of strength he had in him before disappearing into darkness completely.

Afterward, [[Xigbar]] and [[Luxord]] were curious about Axel doing something as foolish as turning against the Organization for the sake of his friendship with Roxas, but Xemnas revealed that Axel's disappearance served to stir Roxas from his rest, claiming Axel's disobedience was not entirely meaningless and pitiful. Xemnas also stated that due to contact with Sora's heart, Axel's own ability to feel emotions could have been affected. Naminé, however, backs up this notion in the written novel of the game in which she mentions that Axel never truly died, but rather faded into darkness where he would wander until he would find his heart. Axel made one final appearance to Roxas, right before the latter's mental battle with Sora, where he gives a final farewell to his best friend.

==Appearance==
Like other Organization members, Axel wears the basic black gloves and boots. His black coat, however, is one of the more distinctive ones in the group, as its sleeves close up tightly around his arms. Axel himself is also easily distinguishable from other characters in terms of facial features, made easier by the fact that he rarely wears the hood of his coat up and that he's the slimmest other than Roxas. Axel has rather small eyebrows and thick, shoulder-length, bright red hair styled into slicked-back spikes. His eyes are a sea-green color and he has two purple reverse-teardrop shaped markings under each eye.

==Personality==
[[Image:Axel Days.PNG|right|150px|thumb|Axel from ''[[Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days]]'']]
Axel's personality is very different compared to most other members of the Organization. His attitude also changes during the series. When he is first introduced at the beginning of ''Kingdom Hearts Chain of Memories'', Axel has a  mysterious, stoic, and calm demeanor on par with that of Marluxia. He seems to be a very good liar, as he earned Vexen's, Marluxia's, and even the trust of [[Larxene]] in only a short amount of time. He also seems to be very committed to the Organization, shown in a cutscene where he battles Marluxia. He seems quite distant at times during his time in Castle Oblivion, ignoring Vexen's insults and almost completely unfazed by Larxene's flirtatious behavior towards him. While he is seen as collected, intelligent, and even somewhat overconfident, cutscenes from ''[[Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories]]'' make him sound as if he is acting at times, possibly hinting at his dislike for the other members. Although in Re:Chain of Memories, Axel is shown to hold Larxene and Zexion in good company to an extent. Cutscenes show Axel making friendly conversation with Larxene while Marluxia is not around, and making friendly bets with Zexion as to which member will be defeated next. But eventually Axel betrays Larxene by letting Naminé escape and seemed disappointed yet satisfied upon her elimination. Axel also has [[Riku Replica]] annihilate [[Zexion]] to ensure that his actions in Castle Oblivion go unnoticed by the rest of the Organization, and to possibly help [[Saïx]] move up in rank.

Axel's personality changes drastically in between the two games, possibly due to his friendship with Roxas. In ''[[Kingdom Hearts II]]'', he has a very laid-back, "go with the flow" outlook on many things, including missions and battles. But he also is shown to have a very kind, heartful side, ironic because he is a Nobody and has no heart. His friendship with [[Roxas]] and [[Xion]] and his moving final words are examples of this.  
He also stated that Roxas made him feel "like he had a heart".

In both games Axel has been shown to have a very typical "Nobody" side to his personality as well, being cold, unforgiving, and merciless. In ''Chain of Memories'', he interrupts Vexen's cries for mercy with a cocky "Goodbye" before incinerating him without any hesitation. He also seemed to be amused by the deaths of his comrades as shown in the scene where he is making bets with Zexion. This cruel attitude also occurs when Marluxia uses [[Naminé]] as a human shield against him—Axel confidently declared he would kill Naminé to get to Marluxia. Also in ''[[Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix]]'', he appeared indifferent to angering [[Xaldin]].

In both ''Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories'' and ''Kingdom Hearts II'', Axel displays emotion, which is unusual given that Nobodies cannot feel anything. He himself notes this in ''Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories'' when he begins laughing, but catches himself and stops. He even mocks his ability to feel towards his death. Whether he, Roxas, Naminé, and Xion all seem have something unusual in common regarding the heart, is unknown. But it has been hinted by Xemnas, and Axel himself, that by being close in contact with Sora's heart, Axel began to feel emotions of his own.

Out of the whole Organization, Axel is probably the most difficult to read. One never knows what he is thinking (as [[Lexaeus]] implied) or whose side he is really on. Most of the time he seems to be just messing around, but he may have done more thinking than everyone else combined, as stated in Jiminy's Journal. Similarly, in both ''Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories'' and ''Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days'', Axel tends to avoid eye contact when lying.

==Fighting Style and Abilities ==
{{Main|Axel (Boss)}}
As the Flurry of Dancing Flames, Axel uses two uniquely shaped weapons called chakrams, and specializes in Fire manipulation. He can summon pillars of flame at will and strike with rapid combos using his chakrams. He can also surround his chakrams in flame and throw them like boomerangs, spinning and looping them to hit opponents multiple times. In his one on one battle with Roxas in ''Kingdom Hearts II'', Axel also summons a circle of fire to surround them and leaps into the flames to hide, emerging to strike with rapid attacks, and then leaping back to keep his opponents off their guard. Axel, is a powerful member of the Organization, arguably even stronger, or at least a better fighter, than Saïx. This is seen when Saïx is defeated by Roxas, but Axel was able to defeat [[Xion]] at the Old Mansion, who at the time was stronger than [[Roxas]] from accidentally absorbing too much of his power.

===Weapon===


 
[[Image:Chakrams.png|200 px|thumb|right|Axel's Chakrams.]]
Axel utilizes two unique weapons called '''Chakrams''', named '''Eternal Flames'''. Each chakram is circular and red, with silver spikes and circles around the edges, and two black handles cross in the middle. Each Chakram has eight spikes, possibly referencing Axel's rank in the Organization. Axel is very adept in the use of his weapon; he has excellent aim when throwing them, and can use them as shields and as melee weapons. He also appears to be able to throw them in a boomerang-like fashion to bring them back after throwing them. With this technique, he performs some unique attacks, including juggling them against an opponent, or throwing one across the entire battlefield continuously.

He also uses them in conjunction with his fire abilities, setting the tips, or even the whole thing, on fire before throwing them. From the new scene in ''[[Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories]]'', it is implied that he can set his chakrams on fire from afar, acting as a remote detonator.

The [[Bond of Flame]] [[Keyblade]], obtained from Axel, is similar in appearance to his chakrams. Axel's Chakrams are among the few Organization XIII weapons that do not bear the Nobody symbol (the others being Xemnas's Ethereal Blades, and Roxas's and Xion's Keyblades), but the spikes on the wheel do bear some similarities to the Nobody logo.

In actuality, chakrams are small razor-edged throwing disks used by ancient warriors in India. Axel's chakrams also bear resemblance to Chinese Wind-and-Fire wheels, wheel-shaped weapons that are used strictly as melee weapons.

===Playing as Axel===
{{Main|Mission Mode}}
[[File:8days.jpg|thumb|right]]
In ''Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days'', Axel fights with his Chakrams in fast, versatile combos that are effective in both short and long-range combat. Via the Gear System, Axel can be customized along with all other playable characters, attacking in quick combos that close distance between enemies for even faster ones. Axel's Limit Break, Explosion, causes Axel throw his chakrams at enemies while they're engulfed in fire when activated, creating a small explosion of fire afterwards. While not being thrown, Axel's chakrams spin rapidly, the layer of flames surrounding the unique weapons thickening as they continue to gather. However, they can be thrown at any time, and do not need to charge. During Axel's Final Limit, Axel combines his two flaming Chakrams into one enormous flaming version of the weapon, easily many times larger than the two Chakrams. The explosion after the attack is also much larger.

== Quotes==
*''"Now that we're getting to know each other better...don't you go off and die on me now!"<br />''
*''"But don't waste your time. We Nobodies can never hope to be Somebodies."<br />''
*''"Best friends can be inseparable even when they're apart."''<br />
*''"Hey, wait... I'm enjoying this. You guys are something else!"<br />''
*"''What's your problem!? You both...think you can do whatever you want. Well, I'm sick of it. Go on, you just keep running! But I'll always be there to bring you back!"''<br />
*''"So you really do remember me this time... I'm SO FLATTERED! But you're TOO LATE!!!"<br />''
*''"We've got something in common, Kairi. You and I both miss someone we care about."''
*''"Think I'll pass, my heart just wouldn't be in it, y'know? Haven't got one, hehe..."''
*''"Got it memorized?"''

==Trivia==

*It has been noted that Axel bears many similarities to [[finalfantasy:Reno|Reno]] from ''[[finalfantasy:Final Fantasy VII|Final Fantasy VII]]''. [[wikipedia:Tetsuya Nomura|Tetsuya Nomura]] commented on the connection between Axel and Reno, stating that he wanted to experiment by placing a familiar character in a new environment and role. Nomura clearly stated in an interview that the two are "''different people, but subconsciously alike.''"

*Axel shares his voice actor with Reno over a variety of languages: Quinton Flynn in English, Jean Christophe Parquier in French, Víctor Martínez in Spanish, Philipp Brammer in German and Keiji Fujiwara in Japanese. <!--move to Development info-->

*Axel was popular among members of the ''Kingdom Hearts'' staff and though he was initially supposed to die at the end of Roxas' Prologue, his popularity caused him to be continued into the main game of ''Kingdom Hearts II''.<!--move to Development info-->

*In the Japanese version of ''Kingdom Hearts II'', there were flames consuming Axel's body at his death. The flames were removed for the English version. In ''[[Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix]]'', despite keeping many changes made to the English version, Axel's death scene uses the flames.

*According to the Secret Reports in ''[[Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days]]'', Axel and Saïx knew each other when they were humans, possibly also being friends, as Axel states that he should be able to speak to Saïx the same way that he talks to Roxas and Xion, but he can't because Saïx had changed after becoming a Nobody. This is further supplemented by Saïx knowing Axel's original name: Lea. In a [http://kh13.com/mybb/showthread.php?tid=897 Famitsu interview] with series creator Tetsuya Nomura, when asked about Axel and [[Saïx]]'s relationship as humans, he stated that it "might be touched upon in ''[[Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep]]''."

*Axel is the only character to technically curse as he says the word 'hell' in ''[[Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories]]'' when he says "Give me one hell of a show!" At the same time it's the only game in the series he appears in where he does not say "Got it memorized?" (yet after introducing himself he does say "Commit it to memory". In ''[[Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories]]'', Axel uses "Got it memorized?" instead).

*The way Axel saw [[Xion]] at first is debatable. At first, Axel didn't have much of a connection to Sora other than being the best friend of his Nobody, Roxas, who always saw Xion as herself because he was Sora’s Nobody. Being best friends with Roxas may have allowed Axel to see Xion as herself. If not, he might have seen her the way Saïx did, as a hooded doll. But once Axel returned from [[Castle Oblivion]], he saw Xion as herself.

==Gallery==
<gallery>
Image:Axel.jpg|Axel with his Chakrams within the Old Mansion in [[Twilight Town]].
Image:Axel-Artwork.jpg|Artwork of Axel and his Chakrams.
</gallery>
{{AxelWeapons}}
{{NobodyDirectory}}
{{Party}}
[[fr:Axel]]
[[Category:Original characters]]
[[Category:Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories characters]]
[[Category:Kingdom Hearts II characters]]
[[Category:Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days characters]]
[[Category:Nobodies]]
[[Category:Organization XIII]]
[[Category:Allies]]
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-|journalSS=A mysterious figure who stands in Sora's path.<br><br>Hard to read, half the time Axel seems to just be messing around... but for all we know, he's done more thinking than everyone else put together.<br><br>He knows a lot more than he let's on.
-|journalRR=No. 8 in the Organization.<br><br>He is a Nobody whose intentions and secrets are hidden from all.<br><br>Axel has no qualms about exploiting others to suit his needs. He used Sora and Naminé to silence Marluxia and halt his plot against the Organization.<br><br>Axel claims he and Sora have something in common, but that connection is unclear.
-|journalKH2=Organization XIII's Number VIII. He commands fire and carries a uniquely-shaped weapon.<br><br>He is the former mentor of Roxas. He would give anything to get him back.<br><br>He has proven to be an odd duck of sorts within the Organization, lashing out against treachery, yet stirring troubles with his own betrayals all the while.<br><br>He claims he and Sora share some sort of bond, but Sora can't imagine what that might be.
-|journal358=No. VIII AXEL<br><br>An assassin who puts his own agenda first, and everything else on the back burner. Wields '''fire'''.<br>Weapon: Chakrams<br><br>'''HD 1.5 ReMIX'''<br>A member of Organization XIII. He prioritizes his own motives over the goals of the Organization. He eventually becomes friends with Roxas after their initial meeting. Like Roxas, he comes to worry for Xion after becoming friends with her as well.
-|journalDDD=One of Organization XIII's more unique personalities. He was especially close to Roxas, another of their members. Axel expired while fighting to save Sora—or perhaps someone else.
-|journalUX='''Album'''<br>'''Roxas & Axel & Xion'''<br>KINGDOM HEARTS 358/2 Days (2008)<br>After a mission, these three friends like to relax over sea-salt ice cream.<br><br>'''Axel A/SP Axel/HD Axel'''<br>KINGDOM HEARTS II (2005)<br>The 8th member of Organization XIII. He commands fire.<br><br>'''Boss'''<br>This Flurry of Dancing Flames absorbs attacks from Power-based Medals. Keep an eye on the count above his head.
-|s1=Lea
 }}
-{{Q|My show now, Keyblade master! Who am I? Oh, my name's Axel. Got it memorized?|Axel}}
+{{Q|My show now, Keyblade master. Who am I? Oh, my name's Axel. Got it memorized?|Axel}}
-'''Axel''', the {{nihongo|''Flurry of Dancing Flames''|おどる火の風|Odoru Hi no Kaze}}, is the [[Nobody]] of [[Lea]], and is Rank VIII within the original [[Organization XIII]]. He wields fire and enhances his weapons, twin chakrams, with his pyrokinesis to unleash powerful rapid attacks. He controls the [[Assassin]] Nobodies.
+'''Axel''', the {{nihongo|''Flurry of Dancing Flames''|おどる火の風|Odoru Hi no Kaze}}, is Rank VIII within [[Organization XIII]]. He wields fire and enchants his weapons, twin chakrams, with his pyrokinesis to unleash powerful rapid attacks. He commands the [[Assassin]] Nobodies.
-In ''[[Kingdom Hearts Chain of Memories]]'', Axel is the trump card for the rest of the organization, acting as a double agent in [[Castle Oblivion]] to keep track of [[Marluxia]]'s plans. In ''[[Kingdom Hearts II]]'', Axel betrays the Organization due to his friendship with [[Roxas]], and acts of his own accord to aid [[Sora]], though he had originally desired to turn Sora into a [[Heartless]] and restore Roxas. Axel appears in ''[[Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days]]'' as a playable character in [[Mission Mode]].
+In ''[[Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories]]'', Axel was the Trump card for the rest of the Organization as a double agent in [[Castle Oblivion]] to keep track of [[Marluxia]]'s plans. In ''[[Kingdom Hearts II]]'', Axel betrayed the Organization for his friendship with [[Roxas]] and acted of his own accord to try and help [[Sora]]. Axel appears in ''[[Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days]]'' as a playable character.
-Axel's human form, Lea, had been friends with [[Saïx]]'s original persona, [[Isa]].
+Axel is the [[Nobody]] of '''Lea''', which was revealed in the Day 356 Secret Report and also mentioned by [[Saïx]]. This man had a connection to Saïx's original persona.
+==Journal Entries==
+===''[[Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days]]''===
-==Development==
+''No. VIII AXEL''
-Axel bears a great number of similarities with {{ff|Reno}} from ''{{ff|Final Fantasy VII}}'', even sharing his voice actor with Reno over a variety of languages. {{w|Tetsuya Nomura}} stated that this is done intentionally as an experiment. He wanted to place a familiar character in a new environment and role. He also stated in an interview that the two are "''different people, but subconsciously alike.''"{{fact}}
-Axel was popular among members of the ''Kingdom Hearts'' staff and though he was initially supposed to die at the end of Roxas's prologue, his popularity caused him to be continued into the main game of ''Kingdom Hearts II''.
+''An assassin who puts his own agenda first, and everything else on the back burner. Wields '''fire'''.''
-In the Japanese version of ''Kingdom Hearts II'', flames consumed Axel's body at his death. The flames were removed for the English version. In ''Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix'', despite keeping many changes made to the English version, Axel's death scene uses the flames. In ''[[Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX]]'', the flames are once again removed.
+''Weapon: Chakrams''
+===''[[Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories]]''===
+*'''Sora's Story'''
+''A mysterious figure who stands in Sora's path.''
+''Hard to read, half the time Axel seems to just be messing around... but for all we know, he's done more thinking than everyone else put together.''
+''He know's a lot more than he let's on.''
+*'''Reverse/Rebirth'''
+''No. 8 in the Organization.''
+''He is a Nobody whose intentions and secrets are hidden from all.''
+''Axel has no qualms about exploiting others to suit his needs. He used Sora and Naminé to silence Marluxia and halt his plot against the Organization.''
+''Axel claims he and Sora have something in common, but that connection is unclear.''
+===''[[Kingdom Hearts II]]''===
+''Organization XIII's Number VIII. He commands fire and carries a uniquely-shaped weapon.''
+''He is the former mentor of Roxas. He would give anything to get him back.''
+''He has proven to be an odd duck of sorts within the Organization, lashing out against treachery, yet stirring troubles with his own betrayals all the while.''
+''He claims he and Sora share some sort of bond, but Sora can't imagine what that might be.''
+==Origin==
+{{Q|We have to set things right. There is simply too much on the line... Lea.|Saïx revealing Axel's true name during their conversation over Roxas and Xion at The World That Never Was in ''Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days''.}}
+Before becoming a Nobody, the character we know as Axel was a man named Lea (pronounced "Lee"). Lea was friends with Saïx's original persona, the two planning to take over Organization XIII together. Once Lea joined, his name changed to Axel, Saïx's original persona's name changed to the latter. Identities weren't the only things that changed, however, as Saïx changed to an emotionless, calm Nobody in terms of personality. Axel's personality remained more or less unchanged. This caused the bond Axel and Saïx shared as humans to break. Over time, Axel possibly forgot about their human selves' plans or chose to keep them secret and not think about them, as Saïx became Xemnas's second-in-command. He was later reminded by his old friend about the plans they once had. Saïx even addressed Axel by his original name. Lea and Saïx's original persona's friendship later turned into a hostility, as seen in ''Kingdom Hearts II''.
 ==Story==
-===''Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days'' and ''Kingdom Hearts Chain of Memories''===
-{{Q|Right, that first week you could barely form a sentence. But come on, you're still kind of a zombie.|Axel reminisces with Roxas}}
-[[File:Meet Roxas 01 KHD.png|thumb|left|Axel stands alongside Roxas at his induction into the Organization.]]
-After Roxas joins the Organization, Saïx places him under Axel's tutelage. Initially, Axel is unsure how to treat Roxas; he likens the new Organization member's withdrawn and taciturn disposition to that of a zombie. Even more confusing was that Roxas looked like [[Ventus]], whom Axel had met years ago as Lea. Over time, however, the two Nobodies begin to bond, eating [[sea-salt ice cream]] together at the [[Twilight Town]] Train Station after every mission. As his friendship with Roxas develops, Axel begins to demonstrate emotions, despite his being a Nobody.
-Axel is also present when [[Xion]] joins the Organization, but is sent to Castle Oblivion to deal with the traitorous Marluxia soon after Xion's induction. Having received orders through Saïx, [[Xemnas]]'s second-in-command, it appears that Axel had also planned to eliminate other members who could have harmed their plans to overthrow the Organization.
+===''[[ Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep]]''===
-[[File:When Sleeping Memories Awaken 01 KHRECOM.png|thumb|Axel teases Sora and reveals that he was merely playing with the boy.]]
+It was been confirmed that Axel's human form, Lea, will appeared in ''Birth by Sleep'' alongside with Saïx's human form as children.
-While Sora and [[Riku]] wander Castle Oblivion, Axel works for the two parties of the already divided Organization members in the castle. One party, consisting of Marluxia and [[Larxene]], wishes to use Sora's powers to usurp Xemnas and the rest of the Organization by using [[Naminé]] to alter Sora's memories. The other faction, consisting of [[Vexen]], [[Lexaeus]], and [[Zexion]] three of the original six members of Organization XIII realizes Marluxia's ambitions and tries to stop the traitors, using [[Riku]] to destroy Sora. Early on, Axel spends most of his time with Marluxia and Larxene, trying to obtain their trust.{{storylink|Kingdom Hearts Chain of Memories}}
-Upon purposely throwing his battle against Sora, Axel admits to using the battle as a test of the [[Keyblade wielder]]'s strength. Axel gives up a {{c|card|com}} created from Sora's memories, which allows Sora to progress further in the castle, After leaving a bewildered Sora, Axel confronts Larxene, professing an interest in preserving Sora's self-consciousness even after he became a [[Heartless]].
+===  ''[[Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days]] & [[Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories]]'' ===
+[[File:AxelDaysFace.png|left]]
+[[File:AxelRoxasXion.png|thumb|right]]
+After inducting Roxas into the Organization, Xemnas places him under Axel's tutelage. The Nobodies begin to bond, eating [[sea-salt ice cream]] together at the [[Twilight Town]] Train Station after missions. As their friendship grows strong, Axel began to demonstrate emotions due to his time with Roxas. Axel is also present when [[Xion]] joins the Organization, but is sent to [[Castle Oblivion]] to deal with the traitorous [[Marluxia]]. Having received these orders through Saïx, the second-in-command, it would appear that Axel also planned to eliminate other members who could stop their plans for the Organization.
-After Vexen's first battle with Sora, Marluxia orders Axel to dispose of Vexen, both to test Axel's willingness to eliminate another Organization member and to stop Vexen from interfering with Marluxia's plan. Axel finishes off Vexen, who had just engaged Sora in combat and is accepted into Marluxia and Larxene's conspiracy. Taking advantage of Marluxia and Larxene's trust, Axel allows Naminé to escape and contact Sora. Citing his previous order to rid the Organization of traitors, Axel later confronts Marluxia, who now realizes Axel's continued loyalty to the Organization. During their battle, Marluxia attempts to use Naminé as a shield. Axel is undeterred, but before he is able to strike, Sora appears behind him and is angered to learn that Axel would be willing to harm Naminé. A fierce fight ensues between Axel and Sora, and Sora emerges victorious. Conceding defeat, Axel leaves Sora with the words, "It was worth saving you after all," and vanishes.{{storylink|Kingdom Hearts Chain of Memories}}
+====Castle Oblivion====
+{|border="0" align="right"
+|[[Image:Axel-ChOfMem.png]]
+|[[Image:Axel2-ChofMem.png]]
+|}
+{{Q|You didn't think after that introduction, I would give up oh so easily?|commenting on Sora's behavior after he purposely allowed himself to be defeated in the first battle.}}
+In ''[[Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories]]'' while [[Sora]] and [[Riku]] wandered around in [[Castle Oblivion]], Axel worked for the two parties of the already divided Organization in the castle. One side, Marluxia and [[Larxene]], sought to use [[Sora]]'s powers to usurp Xemnas and the rest of the Organization while using [[Naminé]] to alter Sora's memories. Those who stayed in the castle basement were [[Vexen]], [[Lexaeus]], and [[Zexion]]—three of the original members of [[Organization XIII]]. The three realized Marluxia's ambitions and tried to counteract by using Riku to destroy Sora. At first, Axel joined the rebel group, though his intentions at that decision point remained unclear.
-After his battle with Sora, Axel meets Zexion in the castle basement. Zexion brings up the subject of Riku, and requests data on [[Destiny Islands]] in the form of a card. After Zexion is defeated by Riku, he retreats and meets with Axel. Despite their previous collaboration, Axel says that Zexion had "just found out way too much". Axel persuades the [[Riku Replica]] to absorb Zexion, promising the duplicate that he would gain newfound powers, including the strength needed to defeat the real Riku.{{storylink|Kingdom Hearts Chain of Memories}}
+Upon throwing the first battle with Sora, Axel admitted to testing the Keyblade master's strength. Being the first Organization member to reveal his face, Axel gave up a card created from Sora's memories for him to progress further in the castle. After leaving Sora bewildered, Axel holds a serious conversation with Larxene in which he professes an interest in the fact that Sora retains his self-consciousness even after becoming a [[Heartless]].
-With the five members of the Organization finished off, Axel proceeds to carry out his orders to find the [[Chamber of Waking]] and retrieve Naminé, but fails to find the chamber and allows Naminé to escape, deeming her unnecessary. When Axel finally returns to [[the World That Never Was]], he feels as if Roxas had replaced him with Xion, with whom Roxas now eats ice cream in Twilight Town in the same way Roxas and Axel had prior to Castle Oblivion. At Roxas's suggestion, the three begin to spend time together as a trio. Sometime later, Saïx confronts Axel. Axel reveals that he regrets not being able to talk with Saïx as he could with Roxas and Xion. Saïx alludes to the friendship he and Axel had shared before becoming Nobodies and reminds him of their plans to find [[Subject X]].
+After Vexen nearly reveals the existence of Roxas to Sora, Axel was ordered by Marluxia to dispose of him. Axel did so effortlessly, and was at last accepted by Marluxia and Larxene into their conspiracy. Using this to his advantage, Axel allowed Naminé to escape and contact Sora. He later confronted Marluxia, allowing him to figure out that he acted as a double agent during their entire time in the castle. Citing his previous order to rid the Organization of traitors, Axel readied to attack Marluxia, even after Marluxia used Naminé as a shield, but was interrupted by Sora, whom he eventually fought for the last time. At the end of the battle, Axel pretended to be defeated and confused Sora with the words "It was worth saving you after all," and vanished.
-[[File:The Existence of Sadness 02 KHII.png|thumb|left|Axel tries to stop Roxas from leaving the Organization.]]
+After his battle with Sora, Axel met with Zexion in the castle basement. Zexion brought up the subject of Riku and requested data on [[Destiny Islands]] in the form of a card. Despite their previous collaboration, Axel later offered [[Riku Replica]] the honor of killing Zexion, promising the duplicate that he would gain new powers and be able to defeat the real Riku. The exact reason for Axel's betrayal is not stated, and seems self-contradictory after he had helped stop Marluxia's betrayal, though it was true that both sides of the Organization members in Castle Oblivion had their own ideas for betrayal. Axel commented that it would be more interesting to see Sora and Riku's future than to save Zexion; however, this may have had something to do with Axel's friendship with Roxas, which could have been the reason why he effortlessly destroyed Vexen—to prevent either Sora or Roxas from meeting.
-Eventually, Axel discovered that Xion is an imperfect [[replica]] of Roxas and keeps the truth from him, sometimes he would lie to him to keep him from worrying, but couldn't help but feel bad for deceiving him. After discovering her identity, Xion develops a desire to leave the Organization. While on a mission, Axel discovers Xion has sneaked into Castle Oblivion. He encourages her to leave and to stop remembering her former memories, or rather, Sora's memories. Despite Axel's warning, Xion goes further into the castle. Xion eventually escapes the Organization but is attacked and captured by Axel, under Saïx's orders, in Twilight Town weeks later, before Roxas's eyes. Despite Roxas's protests, Axel claims that his use of force had been necessary. No longer on speaking terms with Roxas, Axel becomes torn between his two friends, trying to decide which one to save from Xemnas's plan.
-[[File:Xion and Axel Face Off 01 KHD.png|thumb|Axel swears that he would always bring Xion back, regardless of how many times she tries to flee.]]
+In ''Re: Chain of Memories'', Axel stated the reason for his betrayal of Zexion, saying: "You just found out way too much." This seems to be quite ambiguous, as in ''Re:Chain of Memories'' Axel and Zexion were shown to be friendly with each other (e.g. in one scene it was shown that Zexion and Axel were making bets on which Organization members in the Castle would be the next to die, something that Axel wins when he accurately predicts that Marluxia will be the next to fall).
-About 2 months later, Axel rescues Xion and Roxas from being manipulated into killing each other at [[Halloween Town]], causing all three of them to become distrustful of the Organization and Saïx. The next day while on a mission in [[Wonderland]], Xion attacks [[Xigbar]] and knocks him unconscious, and Axel makes no attempt to stop her. She removes her hood, shocking Axel, and asks Axel to let her go, which he agrees to, and she retreats through a Corridor of Darkness. Roxas confronted him on why he just let her go and reveals that Xion is a replica and that they can't coexist together. Roxas refuses to believe it and leaves in a fury despite Axel's protests. The next day, Xemnas ordered Axel to bring Xion back alive. Before leaving to find her, Roxas tries to reason with him that Xion can't come back, only to say that it's rather that or him being destroyed. The next day, Roxas, having learned Xion's identity and that Axel had hidden it from him, questions him about his true identity resulting an argument between them. Axel only tells Roxas to trust him, but he refuses and leaves the Organization in anger. Axel, who had enjoyed the time he had spent with his best friend, is distraught but is unable to stop Roxas from deserting.
-The next day, under orders, Axel tracks Xion down to the Old Mansion in Twilight Town. Having learned Xion's intentions, and fed up with her and Roxas's selfishness, Axel battles Xion and knocks her unconscious. Axel, after managing to bring Xion back to the [[Castle That Never Was]], faints from fatigue, and Xemnas takes the unconscious Xion from him. Later, in his quarters, after learning the aftermath of Roxas and Xion's fight, a depressed Axel discovers a popsicle stick labeled "WINNER", a gift left by Roxas. After Xion's defeat at Roxas's hands, Axel's memories of her eventually disappear.<ref>'''''[[Secret Reports#Day 357: To My Best Friend|Secret Reports]]''''', '''Axel:''' "Roxas left. It's so like him to just leave that WINNER ice cream stick behind. Come tomorrow, I'll probably get the order to hunt him down, but leaving that here makes it feel so permanent. I wish the three of us—three? No. That the two of us could share some ice cream again someday. That's what it is to be friends."</ref>
+==== Return to the World That Never Was ====
-{{-}}
+When Axel returns to [[the World That Never Was]], he feels that Roxas has replaced him with Xion. Axel becomes jealous, not sure exactly what to make of Xion. At Roxas' suggestion, the three begin to spend time together as a trio.
+Some time later, Axel finds himself before Saïx, and reveals that he regrets not being able to talk with Saïx as he could with Roxas and Xion. Saïx reminds Axel of the friendship they shared before becoming Nobodies, and the plans they had to take over the Organization.
+After discovering who and what she was, Xion began wanting to leave the Organization. He eventually catches her in front of Roxas despite his pleas, though she eventually escapes again. Roxas would eventually follow suit and leave the Organization. Axel, who has enjoyed the time he spent with his best friend, is distraught by Roxas' decision.
+Axel and Xion end up battling again in front of the Old Mansion in Twilight Town, with Axel claiming he would do "whatever it took to bring her back". Axel manages to knock Xion unconscious and bring her back to the [[Castle That Never Was]], but faints from fatigue. Xemnas then reprograms Xion with her machine-like forms and then she attacks Roxas in an attempt to absorb him.
+She fails and "returns to Sora" through Roxas, convincing him that he needs to stop Xemnas and 'set Kingdom Hearts free.' After returning to his quarters, Axel discovers a popsicle stick which reads "WINNER", a gift left by Roxas.
 ===''Kingdom Hearts II''===
-{{q|I wanted to see Roxas. He...was the only one I liked...he made me feel...like I had a heart. It's kind of...funny. You make me feel...the same....|Axel referring to how Sora reminded him of Roxas}}
+Plagued with questions as to why he has a [[Keyblade]] and subconsciously seeking out Sora, Roxas leaves the Organization. Axel, who found companionship in Roxas, is distraught by this decision.
-Shortly after Roxas's escape from The World That Never Was, Riku captures Roxas and [[Ansem the Wise]] places him in [[The Other Twilight Town]]. There, Roxas's memory is wiped and replaced with artificial ones, leading Roxas to believe that he is a normal teenager on summer vacation. Axel is ordered to retrieve or destroy Roxas, but only agrees after threats from [[Xaldin]] and Xemnas. He enters the simulated town to confront Roxas; however, his first effort to retrieve Roxas fails when DiZ appears and restarts the Twilight Town program, temporarily removing Axel from the simulation. Roxas is dumbfounded by Axel's appearance, as he lacks any memories of the Organization member.
-[[File:Axel's Decision 01 KHII.png|thumb|left|Furious at being forgotten, Axel prepares to eliminate Roxas.]]
-Axel again tries to recover Roxas without destroying him, while keeping in mind the Organization's order to either eliminate Roxas or be destroyed himself. Roxas, who has since learned from Naminé that the two had been best friends, mentions this to Axel, who calls Roxas's bluff when he is unable to remember Xemnas's name. [[DiZ]] again intervenes, and Roxas escapes to the Old Mansion in Twilight Town. The two meet again in the mansion's computer room basement. Despite Roxas's having regained his memories, Axel,  who is hurt emotionally from his previous encounters, fights Roxas, who is now dual-wielding [[Oathkeeper & Oblivion]]. Axel loses the fight and disappears, obliging not to finish his mission.
-While Sora reawakens with Roxas inside him, Riku asks Axel to protect Naminé. Later, at Sunset Hill, Axel calls it a day before Riku motions for them to leave. Naminé's words, about those who are dear to them despite being Nobodies, strangely move him. As Riku thanks them both, he opens a Corridor of Darkness, allowing the three to make their exit.
+Shortly afterward, Roxas is captured by Riku and put in [[Ansem the Wise|DiZ]]'s [[Digital Twilight Town]] where his memory is wiped and replaced with an artificial one, leading him to believe he is a normal teenager. Axel is sent to the simulated town to bring Roxas back to the Organization; however, his first effort failed due to DiZ's appearance and the restarting of the Twilight Town program. Roxas was dumbfounded by Axel's appearance, lacking any memories of him and awareness of what was going on. Pressed by the threats by [[Xaldin]] and [[Xemnas]], Axel again tries to recover Roxas without killing him, keeping in mind the Organization's order to either eliminate Roxas or be destroyed himself. Roxas learns that the two had been best friends from [[Naminé]] and mentions this to Axel, but his bluff is called when he is unable to remember "''their [[Xemnas|boss]]'s name.''" DiZ then intervenes and Roxas escapes for the Twilight Town mansion. The two meet again at this mansion in the computer room basement. Despite Roxas's recovery of his memories, Axel is hurt from his previous encounter with Roxas and fights him and his dual Keyblades. Axel loses the fight and disappears, choosing not to carry out his mission.
-During Sora's travels through the different worlds, Axel appears before [[Kairi]] on a beach in Destiny Islands, intending to kidnap her. Axel's plan is simple: if Sora were to become a Heartless again, then Roxas would be reborn. However, Kairi escapes through a [[Corridor of Darkness]] created by Riku, and lands in Twilight Town where she waits for Sora. Axel, however, follows her to the town and steals her away again. Not long afterward, she is taken captive by Saïx, who is under orders to "give him something to be pitiful about". After the invasion of [[Radiant Garden]] by the Heartless, Sora confronts Xemnas, the leader of Organization XIII, who disappears after a brief exchange. Axel appears before Sora right after Xemnas exits and explains the [[Keyblade]]'s ability to release the captive [[heart]]s that compose Heartless. However, Axel refuses to say what Organization XIII would do with those hearts. Sora realizes that Axel is Kairi's captor, which Axel confirms. Though initially unrepentant for his actions, he soon apologizes for kidnapping Kairi, but makes a hasty exit when Saïx appears.
+While Sora reawakens with Roxas inside him, Axel is entrusted by Riku to protect Naminé. Naminé's words, about those who are dear to them despite being Nobodies, strangely moved Axel.
-On the way to The World That Never Was, Sora, [[Donald]], [[Goofy]], and [[King Mickey]] are trapped in [[Betwixt and Between]] and attacked by Nobodies, but Axel arrives to help Sora battle the Nobodies. Realizing the [[Dusk]]s' overwhelming numbers, Axel puts his entire being and essence into one, powerful attack, which destroys the Nobodies at the expense of his life.
+====A Second Chance With Sora====
+{{Q|The guy you just saw. He's their leader. Got it memorized? X-E-M, N-A-S.|telling Sora about the Organization's superior, Xemnas}}
+[[File:Axel.png|thumb|132px|Axel as he appears in Kingdom Hearts II]]
-[[File:The Words I Wanted to Say 02 KHII.png|thumb|A fading Axel apologizes to Sora for kidnapping Kairi.]]
+During Sora's exploits to the different worlds, Axel appeared before [[Kairi]] on a beach across Destiny Islands, intending to kidnap her to draw Sora out. Axel's plan was simple; if Sora were to become a Heartless again, then Roxas would be reborn. However, Kairi escaped through a [[Corridor of Darkness]] created by Riku and landed in [[Twilight Town]] where she stayed for some time in wait of Sora. Axel, however, followed her to the town and stole her away again, but not long afterward she was taken captive by [[Saïx]] who was under orders to give Axel something to actually worry about. After the invasion of the [[Radiant Garden]] by the Heartless, Sora confronted Xemnas, the leader of the Organization. Xemnas decided to take his leave and Axel later greeted Sora. Axel hinted that the Keyblade caused the hearts that composed the Heartless to flee, but refused to say what Organization XIII would do with those hearts. Sora realized that Axel is Kairi's captor, and Axel confirmed this. Though initially seeming unrepentant for his actions, he soon apologized for kidnapping Kairi, and made a hasty exit when Saïx appeared.
-As he fades away, Axel explains his motives: he had wanted to save Sora, Roxas's original self, who stays with him in his last moments. He sincerely apologizes to Sora for involving Kairi in Organization XIII's plans. Axel confesses that he had wanted to see Roxas, the only one who had made him feel like he had a heart. Axel remarks that Sora makes him feel the same way. In his final moments, Axel urges Sora to proceed and rescue Kairi, then opens a passageway to the World That Never Was before disappearing into the darkness.
-Afterward, [[Xigbar]], [[Luxord]] and [[Saïx]] discuss Axel's foolish and senseless actions, in turning against the Organization for the sake of his friendship with Roxas. Xemnas reveals that Axel's disappearance had served to stir Roxas from his rest, claiming Axel's disobedience had not been entirely meaningless and pitiful. Xemnas also states that, due to his contact with Sora's heart, Axel's own ability to feel emotions may have been affected.
+====Death====
+{{q|He...was the only one I liked...he made me feel...like I had a heart. It's kinda...funny. You make me feel...the same....|referring to how Sora reminded him of Roxas}}
+On the way to [[The World That Never Was]], Sora, [[Donald]], [[Goofy]], and [[King Mickey]] are trapped in [[Betwixt and Between]] by Nobodies, but Axel arrives to help. Sora and Axel battled the Nobodies, but seeing that the [[Dusk]]'s numbers were too great, Axel decided to put every bit of his energy into one massive attack to destroy the Nobodies and save Sora, who stayed with him until the moment he faded. He sincerely apologized to Sora for getting Kairi involved. Confused, Sora asked him what he was trying to do and Axel confessed that he wanted to see Roxas, the only one who made him feel like he had a heart. Oddly enough for Axel, Sora made him feel the same way (possibly since Sora and Roxas are one in the same) and used these final words to urge Sora on to rescue Kairi. Axel opened the passageway to the World That Never Was with the last bit of strength he had in him before disappearing into darkness completely.
-{{canon
+Afterward, [[Xigbar]] and [[Luxord]] were curious about Axel doing something as foolish as turning against the Organization for the sake of his friendship with Roxas, but Xemnas revealed that Axel's disappearance served to stir Roxas from his rest, claiming Axel's disobedience was not entirely meaningless and pitiful. Xemnas also stated that due to contact with Sora's heart, Axel's own ability to feel emotions could have been affected. Naminé, however, backs up this notion in the written novel of the game in which she mentions that Axel never truly died, but rather faded into darkness where he would wander until he would find his heart. Axel made one final appearance to Roxas, right before the latter's mental battle with Sora, where he gives a final farewell to his best friend.
-|In the written novel of the game, Naminé backs up Xemnas's notion, mentioning that Axel had never truly died, but had rather faded into darkness, where he would wander until he found his heart.
-|width=85%
-}}
-[[File:Leaving Him Behind 02 KHIIFM.png|thumb|left|Axel bids his final farewell to Roxas.]]
+==Appearance==
-Axel makes one final appearance before Roxas, immediately after Roxas's mental battle with Sora. The two discuss their fate, reminisce about the good times they had shared with each other. Axel gives a final farewell to his best friend shedding a tear, as his [[body]] and [[soul]] reunite with his heart at Radiant Garden, reviving Lea.
+Like other Organization members, Axel wears the basic black gloves and boots. His black coat, however, is one of the more distinctive ones in the group, as its sleeves close up tightly around his arms. Axel himself is also easily distinguishable from other characters in terms of facial features, made easier by the fact that he rarely wears the hood of his coat up and that he's the slimmest other than Roxas. Axel has rather small eyebrows and thick, shoulder-length, bright red hair styled into slicked-back spikes. His eyes are a sea-green color and he has two purple reverse-teardrop shaped markings under each eye.
-{{-}}
-===''[[Kingdom Hearts coded]]''===
+==Personality==
-In the [[Datascape]]'s version of Castle Oblivion, [[Data-Naminé]] reveals to [[Data-Sora]] and King Mickey that Axel is one of the people that, while gone, is still connected to Sora's heart.
+[[Image:Axel Days.PNG|right|150px|thumb|Axel from ''[[Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days]]'']]
+Axel's personality is very different compared to most other members of the Organization. His attitude also changes during the series. When he is first introduced at the beginning of ''Kingdom Hearts Chain of Memories'', Axel has a  mysterious, stoic, and calm demeanor on par with that of Marluxia. He seems to be a very good liar, as he earned Vexen's, Marluxia's, and even the trust of [[Larxene]] in only a short amount of time. He also seems to be very committed to the Organization, shown in a cutscene where he battles Marluxia. He seems quite distant at times during his time in Castle Oblivion, ignoring Vexen's insults and almost completely unfazed by Larxene's flirtatious behavior towards him. While he is seen as collected, intelligent, and even somewhat overconfident, cutscenes from ''[[Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories]]'' make him sound as if he is acting at times, possibly hinting at his dislike for the other members. Although in Re:Chain of Memories, Axel is shown to hold Larxene and Zexion in good company to an extent. Cutscenes show Axel making friendly conversation with Larxene while Marluxia is not around, and making friendly bets with Zexion as to which member will be defeated next. But eventually Axel betrays Larxene by letting Naminé escape and seemed disappointed yet satisfied upon her elimination. Axel also has [[Riku Replica]] annihilate [[Zexion]] to ensure that his actions in Castle Oblivion go unnoticed by the rest of the Organization, and to possibly help [[Saïx]] move up in rank.
-===''[[Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance]]''===
+Axel's personality changes drastically in between the two games, possibly due to his friendship with Roxas. In ''[[Kingdom Hearts II]]'', he has a very laid-back, "go with the flow" outlook on many things, including missions and battles. But he also is shown to have a very kind, heartful side, ironic because he is a Nobody and has no heart. His friendship with [[Roxas]] and [[Xion]] and his moving final words are examples of this.
-[[File:A Remembered Promise 01 KH3D.png|thumb|In Lea's dream, Roxas reminds Axel of the promise he made to him and Xion.]]
+He also stated that Roxas made him feel "like he had a heart".
-Just before waking, Lea has a dream of Axel and Roxas eating sea-salt ice cream in Twilight Town. In the dream, Roxas reminds Axel of the promise he had made to him and Xion, to always bring them back. He asks Axel if he had it memorized before fading away, leaving Axel to chuckle.
-{{-}}
-==Other appearances==
+In both games Axel has been shown to have a very typical "Nobody" side to his personality as well, being cold, unforgiving, and merciless. In ''Chain of Memories'', he interrupts Vexen's cries for mercy with a cocky "Goodbye" before incinerating him without any hesitation. He also seemed to be amused by the deaths of his comrades as shown in the scene where he is making bets with Zexion. This cruel attitude also occurs when Marluxia uses [[Naminé]] as a human shield against him—Axel confidently declared he would kill Naminé to get to Marluxia. Also in ''[[Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix]]'', he appeared indifferent to angering [[Xaldin]].
-===''[[Blank Points]]''===
-Axel, Roxas, and Xion are seen sitting happily together on the Clock Tower with sea-salt ice cream. The trio looks into the sunset, and Roxas and Xion say Sora's name.
-===''Kingdom Hearts Union χ[Cross]''===
+In both ''Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories'' and ''Kingdom Hearts II'', Axel displays emotion, which is unusual given that Nobodies cannot feel anything. He himself notes this in ''Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories'' when he begins laughing, but catches himself and stops. He even mocks his ability to feel towards his death. Whether he, Roxas, Naminé, and Xion all seem have something unusual in common regarding the heart, is unknown. But it has been hinted by Xemnas, and Axel himself, that by being close in contact with Sora's heart, Axel began to feel emotions of his own.
-Axel appears as an enemy in the August 2018 {{khux|NEW XIII Event}}.
-===''Super Smash Bros. Ultimate''===
+Out of the whole Organization, Axel is probably the most difficult to read. One never knows what he is thinking (as [[Lexaeus]] implied) or whose side he is really on. Most of the time he seems to be just messing around, but he may have done more thinking than everyone else combined, as stated in Jiminy's Journal. Similarly, in both ''Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories'' and ''Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days'', Axel tends to avoid eye contact when lying.
-In ''{{ssb|Super Smash Bros. Ultimate}}'', Axel appears in the 4 o'clock and 5 o'clock Stations in the [[Dive to the Heart]] sections of the {{ssb|Hollow Bastion}} stage, as an obtainable {{ssb|spirit}} in Sora's {{ssb|DLC Spirits (mode)|Spirit Board}}, and is represented by {{ssb|Roy (SSBU)|Roy}} in {{ssb|Spirit#Spirit Battles|Spirit Battle}}.
-==Design==
+==Fighting Style and Abilities ==
-Axel is tall and slender in appearance. Like other Organization members, he wears basic black gloves and boots. His black coat, however, is one of the more distinctive ones in the group, as its sleeves close up tightly around his arms. Axel himself is also easily distinguishable from other characters in terms of facial features, made easier by the fact that he rarely wears the hood of his coat up. Axel has a widow's peak, rather small eyebrows, and thick, shoulder-length, bright red hair styled into slicked-back spikes. Xigbar teases him about it, calling him "Flamesilocks". His eyes are a bright emerald color and he has a purple reverse-teardrop-shaped marking under each eye, which is similar to {{ff|Reno}}'s facial markings. According to Saïx, the marking was to prevent Axel from crying, which Lea claims he does not need anymore.<ref>'''''Kingdom Hearts III'', Saïx''': "Always told you they'd stop you from crying. The upside-down tears." / '''Lea''': "Yeah. Don't need 'em."''</ref>
+{{Main|Axel (Boss)}}
+As the Flurry of Dancing Flames, Axel uses two uniquely shaped weapons called chakrams, and specializes in Fire manipulation. He can summon pillars of flame at will and strike with rapid combos using his chakrams. He can also surround his chakrams in flame and throw them like boomerangs, spinning and looping them to hit opponents multiple times. In his one on one battle with Roxas in ''Kingdom Hearts II'', Axel also summons a circle of fire to surround them and leaps into the flames to hide, emerging to strike with rapid attacks, and then leaping back to keep his opponents off their guard. Axel, is a powerful member of the Organization, arguably even stronger, or at least a better fighter, than Saïx. This is seen when Saïx is defeated by Roxas, but Axel was able to defeat [[Xion]] at the Old Mansion, who at the time was stronger than [[Roxas]] from accidentally absorbing too much of his power.
-==Personality==
+===Weapon===
-At the beginning of ''Kingdom Hearts Chain of Memories'', Axel has a mysterious, stoic, and calm, as well as cold, unforgiving, and merciless demeanor on par with that of Marluxia. In ''Kingdom Hearts Re: Chain of Memories'', he interrupts Vexen's cries for mercy with a cocky "goodbye" before incinerating him without any hesitation and seems to be amused by the deaths of his comrades as shown in the scene where he is making bets with Zexion. When Marluxia uses Naminé as a human shield against him, Axel confidently implies that he doesn't care if Naminé is in his way to get to Marluxia.
-He seems quite distant at times during his time in Castle Oblivion, ignoring Vexen's insults and almost completely unfazed by Larxene's behavior towards him. Although Axel seems to hold Larxene and Zexion in good company to an extent by making friendly conversation with Larxene while Marluxia is not around and making bets with Zexion as to which member will be defeated next, this was shown to be nothing more than an act to earn their trust. Eventually, Axel betrays Larxene by letting Naminé escape, although he seems disappointed yet satisfied with her elimination. Later on, he encourages Riku Replica to annihilate Zexion to ensure that his actions in Castle Oblivion go unnoticed by the rest of the Organization and to help Saïx keep his rank in the Organization. In ''[[Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix]]'', he appears indifferent to angering Xaldin, showing his disdain for the other Nobody.
-Axel's cold personality changes drastically, due to his friendship with [[Roxas]], stating that the latter made him feel "like he had a heart". In ''[[Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days]]'', he has a very laidback, "go with the flow" outlook on many things, including missions and battles. He is also shown to be quite sarcastic. This is shown once he has returned from Castle Oblivion when Saïx asks him why he did not report, he simply responds with "Oh, good to see you, too. You're welcome, thanks for the kind words."
+[[Image:Chakrams.png|200 px|thumb|right|Axel's Chakrams.]]
+Axel utilizes two unique weapons called '''Chakrams''', named '''Eternal Flames'''. Each chakram is circular and red, with silver spikes and circles around the edges, and two black handles cross in the middle. Each Chakram has eight spikes, possibly referencing Axel's rank in the Organization. Axel is very adept in the use of his weapon; he has excellent aim when throwing them, and can use them as shields and as melee weapons. He also appears to be able to throw them in a boomerang-like fashion to bring them back after throwing them. With this technique, he performs some unique attacks, including juggling them against an opponent, or throwing one across the entire battlefield continuously.
-Axel revealed to have a very kind, heartful side, which he only displayed to his closest friends, Roxas and Xion, acting like an older brother towards them and being their main source of advice and wisdom. In some cases, he got them out of trouble, including helping out Xion and Roxas when Xion cannot summon her Keyblade and preventing them from destroying one another when they are tricked by the Organization into fighting each other. In ''Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix'', when Axel bids his final farewell to Roxas, it can be seen upon closer inspection that the teardrop at the end of the scene belongs to Axel, which displays his emotional capacities.
+He also uses them in conjunction with his fire abilities, setting the tips, or even the whole thing, on fire before throwing them. From the new scene in ''[[Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories]]'', it is implied that he can set his chakrams on fire from afar, acting as a remote detonator.
-Originally, when Axel displays emotion, he finds it unusual given that Nobodies cannot feel anything, and often refuses to acknowledge them, even mocking his ability to feel towards his death. He notes this in ''Kingdom Hearts Re: Chain of Memories'' when he begins laughing, but catches himself and stops. However, it has been hinted by Xemnas, and Axel himself, that by being close in contact with Sora's heart, Axel began to feel emotions of his own.
+The [[Bond of Flame]] [[Keyblade]], obtained from Axel, is similar in appearance to his chakrams. Axel's Chakrams are among the few Organization XIII weapons that do not bear the Nobody symbol (the others being Xemnas's Ethereal Blades, and Roxas's and Xion's Keyblades), but the spikes on the wheel do bear some similarities to the Nobody logo.
-Out of the whole Organization, Axel is probably the most difficult to read. According to Lexaeus, no one ever knows what he is thinking or whose side he is really on. While he seems to just be joking around, he may have done more thinking than everyone else combined, as stated in Jiminy's Journal. Similarly, in both ''Kingdom Hearts Chain of Memories'' and ''Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days'', Axel tends to avoid eye contact when lying.
+In actuality, chakrams are small razor-edged throwing disks used by ancient warriors in India. Axel's chakrams also bear resemblance to Chinese Wind-and-Fire wheels, wheel-shaped weapons that are used strictly as melee weapons.
-In ''Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days'', it is shown that Axel does not like to talk about his past. Whenever Roxas or Xion asks him about it, he gives a brief or vague answer and then tries to change the subject. It is implied that he had some sort of experience with women in his earlier life, as seen when he gives Roxas a piece of friendly advice to "not push the wrong buttons" with women. He also believes that women are complicated, claiming that real women are a "double dose of complex" (since he thinks that real people are more complex compared to Nobodies), and Nobody women are a "single dose".
+===Playing as Axel===
+{{Main|Mission Mode}}
+[[File:8days.jpg|thumb|right]]
+In ''Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days'', Axel fights with his Chakrams in fast, versatile combos that are effective in both short and long-range combat. Via the Gear System, Axel can be customized along with all other playable characters, attacking in quick combos that close distance between enemies for even faster ones. Axel's Limit Break, Explosion, causes Axel throw his chakrams at enemies while they're engulfed in fire when activated, creating a small explosion of fire afterwards. While not being thrown, Axel's chakrams spin rapidly, the layer of flames surrounding the unique weapons thickening as they continue to gather. However, they can be thrown at any time, and do not need to charge. During Axel's Final Limit, Axel combines his two flaming Chakrams into one enormous flaming version of the weapon, easily many times larger than the two Chakrams. The explosion after the attack is also much larger.
-Axel's catchphrase is "Got it memorized?" (originally localized as "Commit it to memory" in ''Kingdom Hearts Chain of Memories'') whenever he refers to an important name, but mostly when he is introducing himself, even when he is Lea. On a side note, Axel is the first character in the series to curse, since he uses the word "hell" after letting Naminé go, asking Sora to "give [him] one hell of a show", but in the remake, it is changed to "Try and make it enjoyable".
+== Quotes==
+*''"Now that we're getting to know each other better...don't you go off and die on me now!"<br />''
+*''"But don't waste your time. We Nobodies can never hope to be Somebodies."<br />''
+*''"Best friends can be inseparable even when they're apart."''<br />
+*''"Hey, wait... I'm enjoying this. You guys are something else!"<br />''
+*"''What's your problem!? You both...think you can do whatever you want. Well, I'm sick of it. Go on, you just keep running! But I'll always be there to bring you back!"''<br />
+*''"So you really do remember me this time... I'm SO FLATTERED! But you're TOO LATE!!!"<br />''
+*''"We've got something in common, Kairi. You and I both miss someone we care about."''
+*''"Think I'll pass, my heart just wouldn't be in it, y'know? Haven't got one, hehe..."''
+*''"Got it memorized?"''
-==Abilities==
+==Trivia==
-As the Flurry of Dancing Flames, Axel uses two uniquely shaped weapons called chakrams, and specializes in Fire manipulation. He can summon pillars of flame at will and strike with rapid combos using his chakrams. He can also surround his chakrams in flame and throw them like boomerangs, spinning and looping them to hit opponents multiple times. In his one on one battle with Roxas in ''Kingdom Hearts II'', Axel also summons a circle of fire to surround them and leaps into the flames to hide, emerging to strike with rapid attacks, and then leaping back to keep his opponents off their guard. Axel is a powerful member of the Organization, arguably even stronger, or at least a better fighter, than Saïx. This is seen when Saïx is defeated by Roxas, but Axel was able to defeat Xion at the Old Mansion, who at the time absorbed much of Roxas's power. However, Axel clearly put more effort into his battle, as he passed out after the fight, while Saïx remained conscious, though exhausted.
-In ''Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days'', Axel has a Limit Break called [[Explosion (Limit Break)|Explosion]], which causes Axel to throw his fire-engulfed chakrams at enemies. During the Final Limit, his two chakrams are combined into one enormous chakram.
+*It has been noted that Axel bears many similarities to [[finalfantasy:Reno|Reno]] from ''[[finalfantasy:Final Fantasy VII|Final Fantasy VII]]''. [[wikipedia:Tetsuya Nomura|Tetsuya Nomura]] commented on the connection between Axel and Reno, stating that he wanted to experiment by placing a familiar character in a new environment and role. Nomura clearly stated in an interview that the two are "''different people, but subconsciously alike.''"
-===''Kingdom Hearts II''===
-Axel assists Sora when fighting the Nobodies at [[Betwixt and Between]]. He fights with attacks that are also used in the battles against him.
-{{frm-abi-o|kh2|o=*}}
-{{frm-abi|n=*|{{nihongo|'''Continuous Attack'''|連続攻撃|<br>Renzoku Kōgeki}}|Axel twists his body while swinging his weapon many times.}}
-{{frm-abi|n=*|{{nihongo|'''Firetooth'''|ファイアカッター|<br>Faia Kattā|lit. "Fire Cutter"}}|Axel moves behind the enemy and throws a flaming weapon.}}
-{{frm-abi|n=*|{{nihongo|'''Assault'''|突撃|<br>Totsugeki}}|After disappearing, Axel charges forward while covered in flames.}}
-{{frm-abi|n=*|{{nihongo|'''Wild Dance'''|乱舞|<br>Ranbu}}|Axel swings his weapon covered in flames, and repeatedly attacks with flaming pillars.}}
-{{frm-abi|n=*|{{nihongo|'''Fall Attack'''|落下攻撃|<br>Rakka Kōgeki}}|Axel warps into the air above, and spreads a blaze upon landing.}}
-{{frm-c}}
-===Weapon===
+*Axel shares his voice actor with Reno over a variety of languages: Quinton Flynn in English, Jean Christophe Parquier in French, Víctor Martínez in Spanish, Philipp Brammer in German and Keiji Fujiwara in Japanese. <!--move to Development info-->
-Axel utilizes two {{w|Chakram}}s, named "[[Eternal Flames]]". Each Chakram is circular and red, with silver spikes and circles around the edges, and two black handles shaped like crosses in the middle. Each chakram has eight spikes, possibly referencing Axel's rank in the Organization. Axel is very adept in the use of his weapon; he can throw them, use them as shields, or use them as melee weapons. He performs some unique attacks, including juggling them against an opponent or throwing one across the entire battlefield continuously.
-He also uses them in conjunction with his fire abilities, setting the tips, or even the whole thing, on fire before throwing them. From a scene in ''Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories'', it is shown that he can set his Chakrams on fire from afar, acting as a remote detonator.
+*Axel was popular among members of the ''Kingdom Hearts'' staff and though he was initially supposed to die at the end of Roxas' Prologue, his popularity caused him to be continued into the main game of ''Kingdom Hearts II''.<!--move to Development info-->
-The [[Bond of Flame]] Keyblade, obtained from Axel, is similar in appearance to his Chakrams. Axel's Chakrams are among the few Organization XIII weapons that do not bear the Nobody symbol (the others being Xemnas's Ethereal Blades, and Roxas's and Xion's Keyblades), but the spikes on the wheel do bear some similarities to the Nobody insignia.
+*In the Japanese version of ''Kingdom Hearts II'', there were flames consuming Axel's body at his death. The flames were removed for the English version. In ''[[Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix]]'', despite keeping many changes made to the English version, Axel's death scene uses the flames.
-In real life, chakrams are actually small razor-edged throwing disks used by warriors in ancient India. Axel's Chakrams bear more of a resemblance to Chinese wind-and-fire wheels, wheel-shaped weapons that are used strictly as melee weapons.
+*According to the Secret Reports in ''[[Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days]]'', Axel and Saïx knew each other when they were humans, possibly also being friends, as Axel states that he should be able to speak to Saïx the same way that he talks to Roxas and Xion, but he can't because Saïx had changed after becoming a Nobody. This is further supplemented by Saïx knowing Axel's original name: Lea. In a [http://kh13.com/mybb/showthread.php?tid=897 Famitsu interview] with series creator Tetsuya Nomura, when asked about Axel and [[Saïx]]'s relationship as humans, he stated that it "might be touched upon in ''[[Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep]]''."
-<center><gallery>
+*Axel is the only character to technically curse as he says the word 'hell' in ''[[Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories]]'' when he says "Give me one hell of a show!" At the same time it's the only game in the series he appears in where he does not say "Got it memorized?" (yet after introducing himself he does say "Commit it to memory". In ''[[Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories]]'', Axel uses "Got it memorized?" instead).
-File:Eternal Flames KHII.png|Axel's signature Chakrams, the Eternal Flames.
-</gallery></center>
-==Notes and references==
+*The way Axel saw [[Xion]] at first is debatable. At first, Axel didn't have much of a connection to Sora other than being the best friend of his Nobody, Roxas, who always saw Xion as herself because he was Sora’s Nobody. Being best friends with Roxas may have allowed Axel to see Xion as herself. If not, he might have seen her the way Saïx did, as a hooded doll. But once Axel returned from [[Castle Oblivion]], he saw Xion as herself.
-{{reflist}}
-{{Chakram}}
+==Gallery==
+<gallery>
+Image:Axel.jpg|Axel with his Chakrams within the Old Mansion in [[Twilight Town]].
+Image:Axel-Artwork.jpg|Artwork of Axel and his Chakrams.
+</gallery>
+{{AxelWeapons}}
 {{NobodyDirectory}}
 {{Party}}
-{{358}}
+[[fr:Axel]]
-{{COM}}
+[[Category:Original characters]]
-{{KH2}}
+[[Category:Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories characters]]
-{{Coded}}
+[[Category:Kingdom Hearts II characters]]
-{{DDD}}
+[[Category:Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days characters]]
-{{MOM}}
+[[Category:Nobodies]]
+[[Category:Organization XIII]]
 [[Category:Allies]]
-[[Category:Antagonists]]