Ryuji's armor had vanished as soon as he hit the ground. Groaning in pain, he sat up with the help of his hands to see Ryuga and Warren exchanging words instead of blows. He could hear what they were saying but he didn't care. All he cared about was getting Kotonoha to safety.

He saw her, standing in the middle of the ruined cemetery like a statue, and just staring up at Ryuga. He narrowed his eyes and focused them upon Ryuga. He wanted to make the bastard pay for trying to take HIS Kotonoha away. This anger caused something to happen and in a flash of light he was actually holding a Keyblade in his hand just as Warren revealed his own Keyblade.

"TEME!!!" roared Ryuji as he aimed his newly acquired Keyblade at Ryuga and fired a beam of ice magic at the armored Orphenoch King. Ryuga, having heard the announcement, spun around and blocked with his Empty Soul. The ice had frozen the weapon but then it shattered off. The Keyblade in Ryuji's hand then vanished without a trace thus confusing him.

Ryuga growled in anger and turned his sights on Kotonoha. He roared out, "TASTE MY PAIN!" and fired a blast of destructive power from his Keyblade. It was in the form of a blue fireball that would incinerate her on contact.

"NO!" Ryuji shouted as he dashed towards her with his impressive speed. He grabbed her and pulled her against his body before turning away to shield her. The fireball was headed for them, much to everyone's horror.

However, the fireball dispersed instantly once it ran into an invisible barrier.

"A Guard spell?" Ryuga stared and then turned his eyes towards Warren who smirked.

"Not me," Warren denied.

"Then who?" asked Ryuga. Footsteps could be heard and all eyes turned towards the sound of someone approaching.

"Me," the mysterious figure answered as he came into the light. It was Draco in full armor and holding his Masked Rider Sword Keyblade. "Miss me, Ryuga?"

"You," Ryuga growled. "You killed me!"

"And I'm here to do it again," swore Draco. "Warren-san, let's go!" He rushed towards Ryuga and swung his Keyblade at him. The sound of Keyblades clashing echoed through the cemetery.

"UNWANTED ENGAGEMENTS"

During the fight, Ryuji was holding Kotonoha protectively as she slowly came to her senses. "Nani? Ryuji-kun?" She blinked in confusion when she saw where they were. "Where are we?"

"Long story but right now we should take cover," he said.

Kotonoha pointed to the fight, "Who's that?" She didn't recognize Ryuga.

"Like I said; long story," Ryuji repeated. "Now, come on and take cover with me and the others."

Ryuga was swinging wildly at Warren and Draco, though the two warriors were quickly proving to be too much for the Orphenoch King. He thrust out his Keyblade at Warren, only to hear a swishing sound rather than the rending sound he had expected. He was shocked to discover that now his armor and belt were gone.

"Looking for this?" asked Warren as he appeared behind Ryuji, belt in hand. "Shunpo, one of my favorite abilities."

"Kiisama!" Ryuga cursed. "Fine, I don't need that armor!" His Orphenoch markings appeared on his face as blue and black flames encased his body before dispersing, revealing his true form. His Orphenoch King form.

His organic armor resembled classic samurai armor made of midnight-black carbon steel with bone veins running through it and two gruesome fangs embossed onto the center of the armor. The shoulder plates of the armor each had a huge spike curving out of the top of it, long enough to impale a body on if the wearer of the armor wished it. His legs were clad in greaves that were a reverse of his chest armor, bone with veins of carbon steel running through them. It was his actual physical appearance, though, that had undergone the most drastic of changes. His feet were now lion's paws with hooked, black claws as long as a grown man's fingers. His hands had changed to become lion's paws, with claws of a similarly frightening magnitude. His face, though, was truly terrifying. It was a humanoid face, but with the features of a lion as well; he had a mane that flowed down past his shoulders and pure blood-red orbs for eyes without any discernible irises or pupils. His canines were longer than a normal human's or vampire's, suitable for rending the flesh off of unfortunate prey in huge chunks. To complete the image of fearsome war machine, two ram horns grew from Ryuga's forehead, curving slightly at the top and pointy enough to gorge someone on.

"Still as ugly as ever," muttered Draco.

"Ah, don't say that, Ryuki," said Warren with a smirk. "You'll hurt his feelings."

"Doubtful," snorted Draco. "He doesn't have any."

"Die!" roared Ryuga as he charged at the two Riders. He threw his fist at them, only for it to slam into the ground. He howled in pain as the Inner Demon Keyblade cut into his side, before tearing out a chunk of it. Black flames immediately healed the wound. "Where are you?!" he growled. His targets had vanished. Again he howled as the two Keyblades impaled his shoulders from behind and held him in place. "FUCK!"

"OK, guys!" shouted Warren. "You're up! Finish him off!"

"Do it now!" Draco shouted to the JyuKen artists. "Hurry!"

The JyuKen users all exchanged looks and nodded, knowing what to do. It was their only shot.

"OK, let's do it!" Ryuji shouted. "Set up!"

Neko and Kenzaki stood next to each other as Kat stood behind them, placing her right hand on Neko's left shoulder and her left hand on Kenzaki's right shoulder. The Wolf-Ken user bristled but he ignored the feeling. Ryuji took his place behind Kat and placed his hands on her shoulders.

"Geki Infusion!" Kenzaki and Neko called out, their bodies glowing with their Fierce Ki.

"Rinki Infusion!" Kat called out as her body glowed with her Confrontation Ki.

"Genki Infusion!" Ryuji called out as his body glowed with his Mythical Ki.

Their Ki flowed from their bodies and into each other. Ryuji's Mythical Ki flowed into Kat, mixing with her Confrontation Ki before going into both Kenzaki and Neko to mix with their Fierce Ki. Both Kenzaki and Neko held hands as they concentrated the mixture of Ki in their bodies. A ball of Geki, Rinki and Genki formed in front of the couple.

Warren and Draco were currently restraining Ryuga and holding him so he wouldn't be able to dodge or counter the attack prepared and meant to finish him off.

"Alright!" Ryuji shouted. "Shoot it now!"

"You heard the man!" Kat added. "Fire!"

"OK!" Neko agreed. "Ken-kun!"

"Let's do it!" Kenzaki shouted. "Gekiwaza!"

"Ringi!" Kat called out.

"Gengi!" called out Ryuji.

All four JyuKen artists called out the name of their attack, "GEKI-RIN-GEN JYU HOU!"

(Translation: Fierce Confrontation Mythical Beast Cannon)

The ball of mixed of Ki was fired like a cannonball and roared through the air, headed for Ryuga.

"WHAT!?" Ryuga shouted.

"Looks like this is the end for you!" Warren smirked.

"Sayonara!" Draco gave one final salute.

Both Riders then sent Ryuga flying at the ball with kicks in the back. Ryuga wasn't able to dodge and the Ki-ball collided violently with his body.

KA-BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMMMMMM!!!

The explosion caused by the collision was massive and nearly shook the ground.

The JyuKen users all fell to their knees, panting. That attack had been intense but they managed to pull it off.

When the smoke cloud cleared, they were surprised to see Ryuga, still standing, but severely injured. He was in human form and missing his right arm and shirt. "Curse you!" he growled.

"Damn it, he's still alive!" Ryuji growled.

"Not for long," said Warren. "Ryuki?"

"On it!" Draco nodded. The energy tracks formed under his feet and he rushed along them towards Ryuga. "FULL THROTTLE BREAK-DENSHA GIRI!"

Ryuga saw the attack coming but grinned. He then felt his Jump coming and said, "Sorry, but it looks like it's time for me to leave!"

"HAH!" Draco swung his Keyblade but hit nothing but air when Ryuga jumped. "Huh?"

"He Jumped dimensions," Kenzaki explained. "And it looks involuntary."

"Involuntary Jumping?" Kat asked.

"Jumpers can jump between dimensions without the use of machines. Involuntary ones Jump at random and are harder to track since even they don't know where they'll end up," Neko explained.

"So, he's alive and can be anywhere?" Ryuji didn't look too happy. "He's murdered all those people and now he's escaped!"

"He's out of our hair now," said Kat, relieved. "That's all that matters."

"But what if he comes back?" asked Neko.

"Then he should think twice," said Warren. "You guys did good with that attack of yours. Well done."

In the DynoLiner, both Kotonoha and Ryuji sat together in silence. Ryuji was content with looking out the window in deep thought as Kotonoha stared down at her hands which were on her lap. It was moments later when one of them decided to speak.

"Koto-chan, why didn't you tell me about him?" asked Ryuji.

"I don't know," Kotonoha shook his head. "At first we just ran into each other and we talked. Usually it was early in the morning during my jog or after school. He would always be waiting for me and I just couldn't resist talking to him."

"But why?" asked Ryuji, curious and confused. How could she talk to Ryuga like it was nothing? He was dangerous.

"Because…" Kotonoha hesitated, "Because he reminded me of you." She heard a sharp intake of breath and closed her eyes, regretting ever uttering those words, "I'm sorry."

"Don't be," Ryuji answered. She looked towards him to see a neutral expression. He wasn't angry but he wasn't happy either. "I'm not angry with you. I'm just upset over this whole thing. Seeing him again just keeps reminding me of what was and what might've been."

"Ryuji-kun, what do you mean?" asked Kotonoha.

"You've seen into my mind, Koto-chan. You understand who I was and who I could turn into. Ryuga represents a possible future. It's a possibility that I might turn evil," Ryuji clenched his fists.

"You're nothing like him!" Kotonoha denied.

"But you said he reminded you of me, so there has to be a resemblance," he remarked. Now Kotonoha was really regretting telling him how Ryuga reminded her of him. "I'm part of Ryuki but I'm made up of all the bad. Who's to say that I won't turn into Ryuga or something worse? I'm the closest thing to what he is. I'm an Orphenoch and…"

Kotonoha had silenced him with her lips. Pulling back, she spoke, "Ryuji-kun, I know you and so I know that there is no way you'll turn into Ryuga. You have me."

"True," said Ryuji in realization, "I have you and he doesn't. That was why he wanted to take you away. If he did then I would turn into him." He placed a hand to his chest. "He wanted to take away my heart just like how he'd lost his." Kotonoha knew the story. Ryuga, in his past, had lost the one he loved and lost his heart and mind, turning into that monster. "If anything were to happen to you, I wouldn't know what to do. I'd be so lost and then I…" He didn't want to become a monster or a killer but deep down he knew that he was all that and more. He had the power to kill anyone he wanted.

"I'm here, and I'm not going anywhere," said Kotonoha soothingly as she stroked his cheek. "I love you."

"I love you too," smiled Ryuji. He then felt her stroke his hair and pick out some rubble. "Koto-chan?"

"When we get back home, we're taking a bath together," she stated. "You're filthy. When was the last time you cleaned your hair?"

Ryuji gulped. The last time Kotonoha had washed his hair, it'd been followed by her playing with his hair. She had gentle hands but she always tried to style his hair girlishly. Still, he could never refuse her. She loved to brush and braid his hair and on a deeper level he did too.

"Alright, let's take a bath together," Ryuji smiled. Of course, he was planning on getting down and dirty with her in the tub. His smile widened into a grin. Oh, the possibilities.

Still, his mind went back to when he'd briefly held a Keyblade of his own. Where had it come from and where had it gone? He knew he'd been holding a Keyblade in his hand and used it on Ryuga. Just what was happening to him?

Meanwhile aboard the ChronoLiner, Warren and Ryuki were sitting across from Ant in the dining car with Ryuga's belt in the middle of the table. Warren had managed to snag it from Ryuga. The pass Ryuga had used to activate it was back with Ryuji where it belonged.

"A simple yet powerful design," said Ant aloud. "It's amazing how Ryuga could get a hold of this belt."

"And luckily for us we took it from him," added Ryuki, relieved that the belt was now in good hands.

"So, can you do anything with it?" asked Warren as he picked his cup of coffee and took a sip. The Owner of the ChronoLiner picked up the belt to inspect it.

Ant put the belt back down on the table, took a sip of his coffee, and said, "Just give me a couple of months and you'll see.

At the same time, in the GaroLiner, Kenzaki was sitting with Neko in their own dining car as well. Kenzaki spoke, "So, that was your brother's future."

"Pretty much," confirmed Neko. "But it's all the past now. Neither Ryuki nor Ryuji will turn into that thing."

"He kinda reminds me of Sauron," stated Kenzaki, causing Neko to shiver. "Sorry."

"It's okay, but please just don't ever say that name. It gives me goose bumps," said Neko as she took a sip of her milkshake through the straw.

"It seems that your family has a lot of skeletons in its closet," stated Kenzaki honestly.

"Tell me about it. Kat and I used to share a body while also becoming a host to a demonic entity, my brothers could possibly turn into the biggest threat in the Multiverse, and one of them has a demon sealed in him," Neko listed. "It's never normal in the Hasuma Clan."

"Never boring either," smiled Kenzaki. "So, what do you want to do now?"

"I just wanna relax," Neko purred as she rubbed her hands up and down Kenzaki's chest. "Or make out. Whatever's fun."

"Making out is fine by me!" grinned Kenzaki.

"Ugh," Okami scoffed. "Get a room. People are trying to eat here."

Also, Kat herself wasn't idle either as she rode her own bike back home. She had some planning, scheming, and plotting to do. But first…

"Where can you get some caviar in this town?" she asked herself as she sped up. "I'm craving it! Nya!"

"Warren, I need some advice," said Ryuji as he pulled out a small velvet box.

Warren looked at the box and already knew where his kohai was going with this. "Kohai, I'm touched. I really am, but I'm already taken," said Warren as pointed to his wedding ring, a grin on his face.

"Baka! I'm being serious!" shouted Ryuji.

"Well, it's pretty simple. Do you love her?" asked Warren.

"More than anything," answered Ryuji firmly.

"Then there's your answer," said Warren. "Good luck, kohai."

As both teens were eating their dinner in silence in the DynoLiner's dining car, Kotonoha noticed that her boyfriend was looking very deep in thought. She knew something was wrong because of that serious look on his face. Before she could ask what was wrong, he asked, "Koto-chan, how long have we known each other?"

"Pardon?" she responded.

"How long?" he asked.

"I believe it's been 8 months since we first met," Kotonoha recalled aloud. "Why do you ask?"

"And how many times have I risked my life?" he asked her.

Kotonoha didn't like this line of questioning yet she answered him anyway, "I've lost count." It was her turn to ask, "Ryuji-kun, why are you asking me this?"

Ryuji sighed and said, "I've come to realize how short life is. I've almost died a few times being a Rider. Don't get me wrong. I like being a Rider because it gives me a purpose but I've come to realize that there are a lot more important things in life than fighting and that if we don't act quickly, then we may lose important opportunities."

"What are you saying, Ryuji-kun?" asked Kotonoha.

"Just let me finish," Ryuji gulped as he continued talking. "Koto-chan, if it weren't for you, I would have ended up like Ryuga. For all the times I've saved you, you've saved me in such a way I could never repay it, even if I wanted to. You taught me to love, you…you became my heart and my reason for living."

"Ryuji-kun," Kotonoha sniffled. He was always saying things like this to her. What had she done to deserve such a wonderful boyfriend?

She watched as he reached into his pocket and dug something out. "That's why it's time I ask you this." He got off his seat and knelt down on the floor in front of Kotonoha who gasped when she saw a small red velvet box in Ryuji's hand. He opened it to reveal a gold ring. "Kotonoha Katsura, will you marry me?"

She didn't even need to think about her answer.

Kat was in her apartment. Rose and Cathy were both asleep, having fallen asleep when she'd been out. Bobby was the only one still awake and his eyes were focused on the TV watching another of those 'Super Robot' animes. Kat herself was using a spoon and eating caviar right out of the can. She was emptying out her 5th can already.

While she was eating, she went back to when she and Ryuji had an interesting chat about relationships and love. For Kat, love was an important subject.

"Now, stay there where trash like you belongs," said Kat as she wiped the blood off the steel knuckles of her gloves. She stared at the blood soaked armband she'd used with disdain before tossing it in disgust, "And keep out of my town."

Kat was still a resident in Jump City. At times she was a criminal, and sometimes she was a mercenary, but most of the time she was a vigilante that operated outside the law. It suited her just fine.

"Beating up gangs again, Kat?" she heard and the former Cat Knight smirked when she saw someone enter the alley.

"Ryuki?" she asked hopefully.

"Try again," the figure said before he walked closer and Kat's lips widened in a grin.

"Ifrit, my favorite little brother," Kat identified. "How are you doing? When was the last time we saw each other?"

"8 months ago," Ryuji answered as he stepped over a body. He looked around to see about 6 of them. "And it's Ryuji now. So, what did they do to piss you off this time?"

"Read the armbands," she instructed. Ryuji glanced at one of them and his eyes narrowed.

"FOH," he snarled in disgust. "That group of bastards again." The FOH were an anti-mutant group and a bunch of fanatics. They hated mutants and even attacked people who supported mutants. Ryuji just viewed them as cowards, bigots and hate-mongers.

"They were trying to walk in on my turf," snorted Kat. "But I showed them who was boss around here. These are my streets."

"Expanding your territory, huh?" Ryuji asked. He knew Kat would try to takeover the criminal underworld in Jump City. Even if she wasn't as evil as she'd been in the past, she still enjoyed the criminal lifestyle. She wasn't a simple crook. Oh no. She was ambitious. She learnt a lot under Slade and was applying those lessons.

"Oh, not just mine but Slade-sama's as well," Kat smiled. To her, Slade was the closest thing she had to a father. He'd taken her in and raised her as his apprentice and had even admitted to viewing her as his daughter. She'd married Rose not too long ago too. "You weren't at the wedding. I missed you."

"Sorry," Ryuji apologized. "Been busy training." Ryuji heard a groan coming from one of the bodies and kicked him in the head to shut him up.

"You can tell me all about it but not here," said Kat. "Come on, I know this place that makes the best barbeque spare ribs and chili cheese fries in the city."

"Consider me there," grinned Ryuji. "Just lead the way."

Later, at the restaurant, both dark twins were sharing a large plate of chili cheese fries and a large plate of barbeque spare ribs. Kat ate messily, as did Ryuji, but neither cared for manners. Kat took a swig of her Coke, and asked, "So, what brings you here back to Jump City?"

"Just visiting," he told her. "To see how everything is going."

"Oh, if you mean the Titans, they've expanded," said Kat. "And recruiting. They've got North and South branches now too."

"So I've heard," said Ryuji before stuffing his mouth with a handful of fries.

"Anyway, when I heard you got separated from Ryuki I was pretty surprised," stated Kat.

"Hey, you surprised a lot of people when you came back from the dead," remarked Ryuji.

"The 'welcoming party' I could've done without," Kat said as she recalled the powers and weapons aimed at her. "Still, it's great to be alive."

"So, aside from beating up rival gangs trying to steal your turf, what else have you been doing?" asked Ryuji.

"Oh, I've done a few things. I actually own and run a daycare centre," confessed Kat. Ryuji gawked at her.

"You're kidding me," Ryuji stared with disbelief.

"I love children, if you don't remember," Kat reminded. "I also got myself a day job. I teach kindergarten too."

Ryuji just continued to stare. Kat running a daycare centre AND being a kindergarten teacher? Just how long had he been gone?

"What made you decide to do all that?" asked Ryuji curiously.

"Well, children are the future," Kat explained, "If I can teach them to not hate everything that's different than they are then I'm making the world a better place."

"Sounds noble," Ryuji sounded skeptical. "What's the catch?"

"No catch, I just love children," said Kat honestly. She picked up another rib and began to nibble off the meat. "So, I heard you're on a training mission."

"That's right. I need to train myself to become stronger," said Ryuji as he picked up more fries and stuffed his mouth with them.

"Any particular reason why?" asked Kat.

"Can I trust you?" he asked.

"Why do you ask?" she responded.

"Well, you did call Tiger to separate me from Ryuki," Ryuji clarified. "Yes, I figured it out. You didn't want the competition."

"Clever," smiled Kat. "So, mind telling me why you're training yourself hard for?"

Ryuji wiped his hands clean with his napkin before reaching inside his pocket to take out a photo. He flipped it over to show it to Kat. She whistled. "Wow, she's a cutie. She looks familiar, though."

"Kotonoha Katsura," Ryuji answered and she was surprised. "Sound familiar?"

"I watched an anime with a character whose name was Kotonoha," said Kat. "You're in love with a cartoon character?"

"She isn't a cartoon character in her world," Ryuji corrected. He then told her about what'd happened and she believed him. He had no reason to lie. "So, I'm training myself to prepare myself once I go to see her again."

"But a year? Won't she miss you?" asked Kat.

"I made a deal with someone. I'd be dropped off days after I left," Ryuji explained.

"I see. So, you must really love this girl, huh?" Kat pointed to the picture. Ryuji turned it around and stared at it lovingly.

"That's right. She's given me a new sense of purpose," admitted Ryuji.

"Well, don't forget to invite me to the wedding," said Kat before she let loose a belch. "Damn, those are good fries."

"You're disgusting," Ryuji grimaced.

"But you love me anyway," she grinned.

Ryuji and Kotonoha were heading into the school, arm in arm. Kotonoha had the brightest smile anyone had ever seen on her face. On her finger was a gold band that her boyfriend…fiancé had given to her after he proposed. Kotonoha didn't even need one heartbeat of thought to decide what she wanted. She had glomped him crying all the while yelling confirmations. Ryuji himself felt like the luckiest guy on Earth and didn't care how many people shied away from seeing the huge grin on his face. It seemed like nothing could go wrong at this point.

Oh what fools these mortals be.

Outside the school gates, there was a young man, or at least what appeared to be a young man, who was dressed similarly to the Mad Hatter. He was leaning up against a building opposite of the school and had his eyes trained on Ryuji.

"There he is, ladies," Topper spoke, as he pointed with his thumb, "The one with the long wild hair."

Beside Topper were two young women who were in school uniforms from the same school Ryuji and Kotonoha attended. They were both beautiful and had looks that could make boys drop to their knees, hoping for their attention. One had long blonde hair while the other had long dark blue hair. That was where their human qualities ended. The blonde girl had a cute pair of feathered wings coming out of her back and her ears were slightly pointed. The dark blue haired girl had long pointed ears, a tail with a spaded tip coming out from under her skirt and a small pair of horns poking out from her head.

"Are you sure?" frowned the dark-haired girl. "He seemed much older when I last saw him."

"But he is handsome," the blonde sighed with a smile on her face.

"Oh, this is the one you want," Topper insisted. "He's the same age as the two of you and that helps make a better…agreement."

"Considering how much our fathers are paying you we should get the right one," the dark-haired girl huffed.

"Trust me," Topper grinned. "You pay for what you get. You'll like this guy. Now, don't forget to put on your disguises before you go to school."

While Warren was busy taking attendance, he gave an announcement.

"Today, class, we have two new transfer students joining us. Please, make them feel welcomed," said Warren.

The students were curious. The last few transfer students who'd attended the school had been interesting individuals. They wondered whom these new faces would be and if they were boys or girls. The girls were hoping for handsome boys while the boys were dreaming of beautiful girls. Kotonoha and Ryuji couldn't have cared less as they made eyes for each other. Warren noted how in love they were and knew that wedding bells would be ringing for the two of them. Benitora didn't care much either. He was dating Hikari and he enjoyed every moment he spent with her. Anything else would just get in the way of that same went for Kenzaki who was in a deep and meaningful relationship with Neko

The door slid open and everyone's attention were on the new transfer students who, much to the delight of the boys, were two girls with unearthly beauty. Ryuji just ignored them as they introduced themselves.

"Um, hello," the blonde bowed politely. "M-my name is Siera. It's nice to meet you all."

"Yo!" the dark-haired girl grinned. "I'm Rina. Nice to be here I guess."

The boys (save for Ryuji, Kenzaki and Benitora) leaned forward in their desks with stupid grins on their faces. Both girls were the kind dreams were made out of. Siera was the shy maidenly type of girl you couldn't help but hold and cuddle with. Rina on the other hand was the bust bad girl you just couldn't keep your hands off of.

"Very good," the teacher nodded. "So what brings you here to our school?"

"We're here to marry Ryuji Hasuma!" both girls announced at ounce.

It became so quiet, one could hear crickets. Warren's face cracked a smile and it was obvious that he was trying his hardest to keep from laughing.

"WHAT?!?!?!" the collected students bellowed loudly.

In class 2-3, Kat stared at her hand which glowed briefly with Rinki. She had Ryuji to thank for that discovery. It was because of him that she'd learnt about RinJyuKen.

"You mean there's another JyuKen school?" blinked Kat as she and Ryuji sat at the counter of a bar. Using some fake ID's, they managed to get inside and enjoy some drinks. Both were basically minors but they didn't really care and plus this bar was in Slade's turf so she could come and go as she pleased.

"Yup," Ryuji clarified, "There's that GekiJyuKen stuff Kenzaki practiced." He noted how Kat scowled. She didn't like Kenzaki all that much and hated the fact that Neko was dating him. The guy put a gun to her head of all things! No way that relationship would work, "The GenJyuKen I practice, and the RinJyuKen."

"Tell me more," Kat smiled, interested.

"Well, it's basically the anti-thesis of GekiJyuKen. The principle focuses on natural selection. You gotta be strong to survive the harsh training," Ryuji explained, "The art uses a form of Ki called Rinki." Confrontation Ki. Kat was loving the sound of that. "I ran into Craig a while back and he told me that there used to be this place called Rin Jyu Den (Confrontation Beast Hall) located on Confrontation Beast Mountain. Don't ask me where it is, though. I don't know where it is."

"Oh, that's fine," said Kat as she took a sip of her drink. "That's just fine."

Kat used all the resources she had at her disposal to locate the Confrontation Beast Mountain where the Rin Jyu Den was. She'd climbed it when she finally got there but was disappointed to find charred ruins. Still, she was not discouraged and continued to search for 'buried treasure'. She managed to find the secret underground room where all the scrolls and manuals, depicting the school's teachings, were located. She took the ones that were still in good condition and left behind the ones that had broken apart from age.

One of the scrolls was a manual for the RinJyu Lion-Ken. She practiced it, later modifying it into her Lioness-Ken. She did learn other styles to supplement her new fighting style. In a matter of weeks, she managed to generate her own Confrontation Ki but it was focused more on her hatred of people like the FOH and the fear she generated from her presence. She liked the power. Thankfully, she managed to balance the dark aura by her love for her family.

'Thank you, Ryuji,' thought Kat in gratitude as the Ki around her hand flickered away. She eyed Rachel, their English teacher, and smirked. 'Because of you, I've found a way to get rid of a pest.'

"Start talking," Ryuji growled.

On the rooftop, Kotonoha and Ryuji were trying to enjoy their lunch together and figure out what was going on. Of course, that didn't last long before Siera and Rina came bursting in. Both had lunch boxes with them and had wanted to share before they saw that Kotonoha had beaten them to it.

"Okay," Rina shrugged. "By order of my father, the King of the Demon Kingdom, and Siera's father, the King of the God Kingdom, you Ryuji Hasuma a.k.a. Kamen Rider Ifrit, have been chosen to be our lawfully wedded husband."

"You've gotta be kidding me," Ryuji growled. "Listen, I've never even met you two before. I've never been to your homes either. Just why do your fathers want me to marry you anyway?"

"Well, it's nothing you've done, yet," Siera spoke up. "You saved our homes, you see. In thanks, our fathers wanted to engage us to you, but you left before anything formal could be done."

"Yeah! How could you run off like that?" Rina huffed. "I didn't get a chance to show you how good a wife I could be! Boy was Pop mad about that!"

"My father was disappointed too," Siera nodded. "He really wanted you for a son-in law."

Ryuji's left eye twitched. "So, my future self saved your world?" The two girls nodded. "Great…I have no one to blame but myself."

"Hold on," said Kotonoha, not believing a word of this even if the two girls knew her fiancé's secret identity. "How can you prove you're both princesses? Gods? Demons?" Though Kotonoha had seen a lot of strange things since dating Ryuji, she also required proof. "And, how exactly did Ryuji-kun save your world?"

"It was not long ago in our world when he came into our lives. Two years ago, in our world, a great evil had descended and threatened to destroy our home. That was when a great serpent came and with it a hero," Siera regaled the tale.

"Great serpent?" Kotonoha looked towards Ryuji.

"The DynoLiner," he clarified. "OK, I get that, but why did you both decide you wanted me?"

"Because you rescued us and carried us within your vehicle," spoke Rina. "You wore a mask but we could still see you were the good guy."

"Then how do you know that I'm the one you're looking for?" Ryuji asked. If he played his cards right then maybe he could convince the girls that he wasn't the one that they were looking for.

"That would be me who told them," a new voice answered. Everyone turned to the entrance to the roof and saw the familiar image of Topper leaning against the door. Well, he was familiar to everyone but Kotonoha. His nickname was the Infernal Merchant and he was an infamous figure.

"Topper!" Ryuji snapped. "I should have known! Why the hell did you tell these two I was here?!"

"Their fathers paid me a king's ransom to make sure their daughters found you," Topper grinned as he lit a cigar. "They both paid me extra for an increased chance of their daughters marrying you so I decided to have them meet you when you were their age."

"But I'm engaged to Ryuji-kun!" Kotonoha cried out as she snagged her man's arm. "He's mine! You can't have him!"

"Listen, toots," Rina frowned. "I'm a princess and my needs come way before yours! I'm engaged to Ryuji with Siera so just back off and let me have my husband."

"Oi, back off!" Ryuji snapped. "I'm marrying Kotonoha, not you!"

"But why her?" asked Rina, confused. How could Ryuji choose a commoner over her?

"Because…she saved my heart before it would fall into the darkness," he said.

Meanwhile, Neko was doing crowd control by explaining to the others what was going on regarding this 'engagement' business.

"So, you see, it was an arrangement from many generations ago," finished Neko. It was the best story she could come up with. A total lie. The actual truth was actual bizarre and unbelievable.

"So your family had a debt to theirs in the past?" asked one curious student. "And they never called it in until now, by asking for a marriage agreement?

"That's right," Neko nodded.

"But they both want to marry Ryuji," pointed out another girl. "That's just not possible."

"Thus the problem," Kenzaki muttered. "Especially since he's already with Kotonoha. She's going to freak over this."

"Kotonoha? What about Ryuji?" asked Neko. "I'm afraid of what he'll do to get them to back off. You know how much he loves her."

"Oh gee, I hadn't noticed," Kenzaki chuckled. "Kotonoha will keep him from doing something too stupid."

"Let me go, Ryuji-kun!" Kotonoha snapped as she tried to grab Rina. Siera backed away looking slightly startled while Ryuji held his fiancée back.

"Just ignore her, Koto-chan!" Ryuji cried as he held her back. "Don't let her get to you!"

"She said she can please you better than me! She's not getting anywhere near our bed!" Kotonoha snapped.

"Like you can keep me away!" Rina teased. "I've been taught everything about sex by succubae! Once I get my hooks into my hubby then he'll be all mine!"

"He's my husband too," Siera huffed.

"You can have him when I'm done," Rina shrugged. She then looked at Kotonoha with a grin. "Now just give up my hubby and we can all be happy."

"He's mine!" Kotonoha growled.

"Don't I have a say in this!?" shouted Ryuji as he continued to hold his beloved fiancée back from harming Rina. Right now he was regretting letting her carry her dozuki on her since she was trying to slide it out of its holster. She wanted to use it on this bitch's throat.

"Okay, listen up!" Ryuji shouted, getting the three girls' attention. "Seriously, you two don't want to be part of my life. I am not some kind of prince or fairytale knight, and you will not get pampered like you probably were back in your home. I live a dangerous life and you'd be risking yourself if you hang out with me."

"Sounds awesome!" Rina grinned. "I knew you wouldn't be boring!"

"Um…I'm sure you'd keep me safe," Siera smiled with a blush. "I have faith in you."

Sitting on the fence, watching everything happen was Warren. He had a bag of popcorn and was enjoying watching all of this. His presence was completely masked, meaning that to them he was completely invisible, even to Topper (or so he would like to think). He decided that he'd only intervene if Kotonoha broke free of Ryuji's grasp.

Ryuji felt like his day was a worse hell than when Ryuga decided to hang around. Rina and Siera had tried to score points with him all day. They tried to show how smart they were in class by answering questions. At lunch, they offered to share lunches and muscle Kotonoha out. At least Siera was polite about it and when she got no for an answer, she respected it. Rina on the other hand couldn't take a hint.

By the end of the day, Kotonoha was on the verge of tears. All of this was just reminding her of when Makoto had left her when faced with another girl who liked him. As much as her mind told her that it wouldn't happen with Ryuji, she was still terrified in her heart that it might happen again.

Rina was such a brash girl and definitely a rival for her in the bust department. She wasn't afraid of stating her opinion and she meant it. That was proven when she kept stating how dumb some historic figures were during history class. Her cooking kind of sucked, which made Kotonoha happy since Ryuji would like her cooking better. She was a little envious of how Rina could be so sure of herself.

Siera was a polar opposite. She was like a maiden and so very shy. She was beautiful though, but it was like she didn't know it. Her bust was smaller than Rina's but her cooking was much better than the demon princess'. Again, Kotonoha was finding herself feeling plain and unattractive in the face of the two princesses who were after her fiancé's heart.

The time when Ryuji had proposed to her had made Kotonoha the happiest girl in the world. He was basically pledging himself to her to become her husband but now these two princesses were trying to steal him away. She knew Ryuji would NEVER do anything to harm her but these two girls were royalty. How was she going to compete with that?

The couple was heading home after a long day. Ryuji just wanted to relax and maybe dote on Kotonoha for a few hours. She had a bad day so far and she needed to find a way to relax. Frankly, Ryuji was wondering if nothing but their usual mind-blowing sex would make her smile again.

"So where are we going?" asked a voice. "Your place?"

Ryuji and Kotonoha stiffened and turned. Behind them was none other than the demonic and angelic princesses that had been a pain in both their butts all day. Rina looked expectant about something while Siera was twiddling her fingers.

"ME and KOTONOHA are going home," Ryuji frowned. "You two can go to wherever it is you are staying while you keep up with your delusions of trying to make me marry you."

"Well, since we are engaged, it's only proper that the brides and groom stay in the same house," Rina sniffed. "Are you saying you aren't going to give us that courtesy?"

"It…it is proper," Siera nodded. Her blush indicated that she was having some second thoughts about that certain idea.

"Then there's no problem with me and Kotonoha then," Ryuji snorted. "You two can take a hike."

Siera frowned sadly while Rina snorted and then began to smirk, "Really, just what is the big deal? Siera and I are both princesses, filthy rich, definitely hot, and both of us have taken lessons on how to be good wives both in the kitchen and the bedroom. We both don't mind sharing so why are you so reluctant?"

"Call me old-fashioned, but I'm strictly a one-woman-man and I've made my choice." Ryuji emphasized this point by wrapping an arm possessively around Kotonoha's waist and pulled his fiancée close to him. Kotonoha blushed and gave a victorious smirk aimed at Rina who took notice and huffed. He let go of Kotonoha for a moment to continue, "Look, I can understand what it's like to go on a search for someone you love, but you've wasted your time and your fathers' money on trying to look for me. I'm sorry, but I can't marry you. Goodbye." He took Kotonoha's hand and they both ran from Siera and Rina, never looking back.

Ryuji swiftly turned a corner with Kotonoha in tow. Reaching into his pocket, he pulled out his Pass. Going to the nearest door, he tore it open and leaped inside with Kotonoha, landing in the Sands of Time. The DynoLiner was only a few feet away and racing towards them.

"There!" Ryuji laughed. "Let's see them try to follow us now!"

"Ryuji!" Loki called cheerfully as he saw his partner enter. "We have guests! They say they know you."

Ryuji nearly face faulted when he saw both Rina and Siera in the living room being served tea and cookies. "How the hell did you to get here before us!?" Ryuji shouted.

"Magic," Rina answered simply.

"Get out," Kotonoha demanded, stomping over to Rina and Siera. "Get out! I want you out of my house! I want you both to stay away from my Ryuji-kun!"

"Sorry, but we can't do that," said Rina arrogantly but then she felt cold steel being pressed against her throat. Siera gasped as she saw Kotonoha holding a dozuki threateningly.

"That was NOT a request," Kotonoha said ferociously. Ryuji didn't want his fiancée to spill blood so he quickly intervened and pulled Kotonoha away.

"Now, now, Koto-chan," Ryuji said soothingly. "You can't kill them." He added jokingly, "It'll be murder to get the stains out of the carpet."

"Look," Rina said after recovering from her surprise, messaging her throat. "It doesn't matter what you have to say. Our fathers have decided that you are to be our husband. If you have a problem with it, take it up with them."

"And I full intent to have a word with them," said Ryuji as he took out a Rider ticket. "It's time for me to pay your world a visit." The ticket he held weren't time tickets. They were world tickets that would record the coordinates of worlds when held over a resident of that world. He walked closer and held the world ticket over Siera's head. In a matter of seconds, the coordinates appeared on the blank ticket.

"How are we getting there?" asked Rina. Both she and Siera had ridden a dragon clad in castle-like armor. How was Ryuji going to take them home?

"Follow me," said Ryuji as he headed for the door. He opened it up to reveal the Sands of Time and the DynoLiner waiting just outside. "Koto-chan, let's go."

"Hai," Kotonoha nodded. She didn't want these two girls here stealing away her Ryuji-kun.

"Don't forget about me!" said Loki cheerfully as he went after Ryuji.

The group boarded the DynoLiner. For Rina and Siera, this was their second time boarding but back then it'd looked different. Still, the dining car was adequate. Kotonoha sat at a booth with Ryuji beside her as Siera and Rina took seats in a booth opposite the couple. Kotonoha was sending them glares. Loki had gone to the cockpit to enter the coordinates using Ryuji's old Ifrit Pass and the world card.

Athena too was sitting in the dining car, watching over her contractor. She could sense Kotonoha's uneasiness and wanted to make sure this venture went smoothly. Since the two princesses came from a world of gods and demons, they didn't view creatures like Loki and Athena to be unusual.

The train soon raced towards a portal before disappearing into it. It was headed for Rina and Siera's home world.

The portal appeared above what looked to be a medieval looking castle. Ryuji looked out the window, wondering if this was the Kingdom of the Gods or Kingdom of the Demons. Either way, he was going to have serious chat about this engagement business.

The citizens saw the train in the air and many of them panicked. However, a few others recognized it as the 'Great Serpent' and steed of the 'Great Knight' who'd saved them before

"It's my kingdom!" said Siera, recognizing the castle.

"Good, then we're at the right place," said Ryuji. "After this, we'll go see Rina's dad and straighten this whole mess up."

"You don't have to go far," said Rina. "Pop and Siera's dad always hang out together. If Siera's dad isn't here, then he's in my kingdom."

"I don't understand how demons and gods can live in peace," Kotonoha spoke up.

"Well, we had a civil war that lasted a pretty long time," said Rina. "But it ended when my aunt married Siera's dad."

"You two are cousins?" Ryuji blinked. He never knew.

"Well, actually, cousins by marriage. Rina's aunt isn't my mother. She's my stepmother," Siera explained.

"Talk about a strange family," muttered Ryuji as the DynoLiner landed. The door opened to let them out.

"Hey, it's what gave us peace for so long so it works for me," Rina shrugged as she was the last to exit.

Ryuji snorted and began walking towards the castle. He noticed that all of the people had wings, which made Ryuji believe he was in the God Kingdom. All the people were either staring at him or the DynoLiner, obviously remembering the hero who had saved their world. Still, he could hear a lot of them wondering if he was the hero's son. He looked back to see that Rina and Siera had shed their own disguises. Siera had a pair of white wings that was a lot like everyone else's while Rina had sprouted a pair of horns and a spade tail. It made it painfully obvious which kingdom each girl came from.

Walking to the front of the castle, Ryuji found some satisfaction in seeing that the guards weren't giving him a hard time. Obviously they could tell who he was. Continuing unobstructed, he entered the castle.

"So where does your dad usually hang out, Siera?" Ryuji asked without turning back.

"Ummm, probably in the throne room since he has duties and such during the day," Siera answered. "But if Uncle has come over then they'll probably be in the main hall talking or something."

"Which way's closer?"

"Main hall."

"Main Hall it is then," Ryuji nodded. "Show us the way."

Kotonoha chose to walk close to Ryuji as Siera led the way just to make a point that he was already taken. Once this mess was taken care of, she would have Ryuji all to herself. Maybe he'd be so grateful that he would want to have her in bed. Kotonoha giggled as she looked forward to making love to her fiancé.

Rina and Siera were at the front of the group. Rina gave Kotonoha dirty looks which were returned. Behind Kotonoha and Ryuji were Loki and Athena. Athena looked upon herself a Kotonoha's guardian and servant while Loki was bringing a basket of cookies.

Lining the hallway were portraits of royalty and suits of armor along with torches. They soon reached a tall set of double doors with two guards flanking it. The two guards saw the princesses.

"What brings you back here, your highness?" one guard asked.

"We wish for audience with my father, King Eustace," said Siera.

"Well, he is busy speaking with King Frederick on important matters," stated the other guard.

Rina snorted, "Yeah, right! I bet Pop is in there drinking and singing along with Uncle Eustace."

"Let us enter," said Siera.

"What of the people with you?" the first guard asked.

"Oh, they're with us," said Rina. "The man is our husband-to-be." Rina smirked a Kotonoha gave her a look of contempt. "The others are just accessories."

"I'll show you accessory," muttered Kotonoha as she got ready to reach for her dozuki but Ryuji squeezed her shoulder and shook his head. She nodded and relaxed.

The doors opened and the group entered the main hall. Rina's guest was right it seems. Both King Frederick of the Demon Kingdom and King Eustace of the God Kingdom were dancing with mugs of wine. King Eustace was a large muscular man with a moustache and short spiky hair. As a god, he had slightly pointed ears and wings. He wore a blue tunic, matching pants and furry brown boots. King Frederick, on the other hand, was thin with long silvery hair. Like the demons of this realm, he too sported long pointed ears, a spade tail and horns. He was wearing leather pants, boots and a black shirt.

They didn't look or act like kings at all. They just reminded Ryuji of a pair of idiots as he watched them dance and sing, "Our daughters are getting married! Our daughters are getting married!"

"These two are kings?" Ryuji asked Rina and Siera skeptically.

"When they're not drinking," Rina sighed in embarrassment.

"Daddy," Siera groaned. She was hoping for her future husband not to see her father like this just yet.

"Oi!" Ryuji snapped, catching the attention of the two. "Are you two Eustace and Frederick? The kings of this God Kingdom and the Demon Kingdom?

"Huh?" Eustace blinked. "Oh, that's us. Yeah. Who are you? A suitor for our daughters?"

"Well, you're too late!" Frederick shouted. "We already got them a husband. A real hero of a guy too! Nothing you can give can match what that great hero did. He saved the entire world from all those weird monsters…and stuff."

"So I've heard," Ryuji sighed. "Okay, listen up! My name's Ryuji Hasuma! Kamen Rider Ifrit. You know, the guy who saved your world. Well, at least I will….I think. Time paradoxes are confusing." Ryuji scratched his head. This was giving him a headache.

"Eh?" Eustace blinked as he leaned down to get a look at Ryuji better. "You sure? I'm pretty sure he was taller and had a deeper voice."

"You guys paid Topper to find him, didn't you?" Ryuji sighed. It was like seeing Ranma and Akane's fathers. Time would tell if these guys were just as dumb or not. "Well, with that little bit you paid him, he took them back to when I'm their age."

"Huh?" Frederick blinked. He then broke out in a stupid grin. "Well, that's what I call getting my money's worth! I knew that extra bit would help!"

"Right you were, Fred!" Eustace grinned. "Now our daughters will have no problems marrying our great hero!"

"Hold on!" Ryuji snapped. He didn't care if these two men were kings. As far as he was concerned, they didn't deserve his respect. That was why he wasn't bowing down or kneeling to these two idiots. "I haven't agreed to anything at all!" The two kings looked at him like he was crazy. "Listen, I know you both want what's best for your daughters. Frankly, I don't blame you two, being fathers and all. Still, forcing me to marry them isn't exactly the way to go. And, for the record, I'm NOT interested." Ryuji crossed his arms.

"My boy, are you crazy?" spoke Eustace as he walked up to Ryuji, standing at a head taller than the Rider. "Look at her." Eustace pulled Siera over to show his daughter off to Ryuji. "She's a princess. She's beautiful and would definitely make a good wife. Also, she has nice hips. Perfect for bearing children!"

WHAM!

"Daddy, you're embarrassing me!" snapped Siera with her face red after she'd just put her father down with a punch.

"And my Rina isn't bad to look at either," boasted Frederick. "She has a nice face and a lovely figure. What else could you ask for?" Frederick sighed, "Of course, her cooking skills are lacking.

"Pop, don't embarrass me," Rina growled.

Ryuji growled and then walked over to Kotonoha to grab her hand. "One problem," He held up his hand and Kotonoha's, showing off the engagement rings. "I'm taken and I've decided already who I want to marry. It's her."

King Eustace, however, laughed. "That isn't a problem, my boy! You see, our kingdom is actually a polygamist society!"

"Ours too," added King Frederick. "It's not uncommon for a single man to take many wives. I have three."

"Same here!" laughed King Eustace merrily. "That's the limit, though. One man can only have three wives. It's the law."

Ryuji gawked with his jaw dropped while Kotonoha's eyes went wide. Loki, however, went over and presented the two kings with his basket. He knelt down before them bowing his head. "Your majesties," he spoke, "As Ryuji's guardian, I wish to present you with this gift basket of fresh cookies and-ACK!" Ryuji was behind him and pulling Loki's head painfully backwards by tugging at his horns. "Ryuji! That hurts!"

"Stop being stupid, Loki!" Ryuji snapped.

"But when meeting new people, we need to make a good impression!" Loki reasoned.

"Urusei, urusei, urusei!" Ryuji snapped as he put his foot in the small of Loki's back and pulled harder on the horns, causing Loki more pain.

"He's a lively one, isn't he, Rina?" said King Frederick.

"Now you know why I like him," the Princess of the Demon Kingdom smiled.

"Hey, these cookies aren't bad!" King Eustace announced as he stuffed his mouth with them.

"Daddy, save some for me!" pouted Siera.

Kotonoha just stared as Athena walked up to her contractor. "Not your day, is it, Lady Kotonoha?"

"No, it isn't," Kotonoha shook her head.

"OK, OK, I've seen and heard enough," said a voice, much to everyone's shock. Ryuji turned to his side only to see Warren standing there.

"How long have you been there?" growled Ryuji as he let go of Loki.

"The entire time, kohai," said Warren, grinning. "Wow, three beautiful women. I must be rubbing off on you."

"Urusei, bakayarou!" Ryuji snapped.

"And who might you be?" asked King Frederick. If this man was a threat than his friend Eustace would call for his guards.

"You can call me Ryuji's friend, teacher and senior," introduced Warren, "Name's Warren Smith."

"Warren-sensei!" Siera gasped. "What are you doing here?"

"How did you get here?" asked Rina. They didn't know he was friends with Ryuji.

"Snuck aboard the train," said Warren, "Just masked my presence so none of you noticed me."

"I bet Topper noticed you," muttered Ryuji.

"If he did, he didn't say anything," shrugged Warren. "I'm just here to watch over everything."

"Well, since we have guests as well as our daughters' future husband present, we should have a feast to welcome them," suggested King Frederick.

"Alright, a feast!" agreed King Eustace. "I'll tell the royal cooks to prepare a feast fit for a king! And since I am a king then there won't be a problem!"

"I'm kinda hungry myself," said Warren.

"Warren," hissed Ryuji. "What are you doing?"

"Don't worry, kohai, I got a plan," smiled Warren confidently.

Kenzaki had witnessed how happy both Ryuji and Kotonoha were. It was a huge surprise to find out that they were engaged and more shockingly it had been Ryuji who'd proposed. Kenzaki had gone to confront his fellow Rider. He hadn't gotten along so well with Ryuji in the beginning but now viewed him in a new light. Kenzaki could actually respect how Ryuji was brave enough to propose to his girlfriend.

When Kenzaki had asked how Ryuji could propose to Kotonoha, Ryuji answered by telling him how much the girl meant to him.

It was a simple answer, but it meant a whole lot. So, Kenzaki decided to do some planning as well as thinking.

He loved Neko, a lot, which was why he was willing to tolerate her evil twin. He wasn't sure how much he loved her until she'd died after Katherine's defeat. He knew that this job was dangerous. Gou had died too and it was only a matter of time before he would die as well. At least he would want to die without regrets so he decided to take the plunge.

He'd gone to King's Terminal to pick out the perfect ring and even made dinner reservations at a 5-Star restaurant, which was easy since he was a Rider and that got him special treatment. He'd also cleaned himself up nice.

He wanted to surprise Neko, using the date as the perfect backdrop for when he finally popped the question. He just hoped nothing ruined it.

Ryuji, Kotonoha, their Imagin and Warren were in the Royal Dining Room with the two princesses and their fathers the King of the Demon Kingdom and King of the God Kingdom. Both Kings were seated at opposite ends of the table while their guests and daughters were seated along the sides. Ryuji had ended up seated between the two princesses and sitting across from him was Kotonoha who didn't look like she had an appetite at all. She was between Athena and Loki. Warren was seated next to Loki.

Ryuji wasn't sure what to think of this arrangement. It was like a bad dream…or Ranma Saotome's life. Normal guys didn't get surprised engagements to royalty. Of course normal guys didn't have trains that could travel through time and space and fought monsters periodically.

"So, my boy, have you decided which one of our daughters you wish to marry?" King Eustace asked. "Because, if you marry my Siera, you'll become the next King of the God Kingdom."

"But if you marry my daughter, Rina, you may eventually take my place as the King of the Demon Kingdom. That's a lot of power, Ryuji," added King Frederick.

"You'll have servants to wait on you hand and foot," said King Eustace merrily, "And an army that will follow your every order."

"Not to mention the power and privileges that goes with the position," continued King Frederick.

Ryuji looked at Rina who was on his left then Siera who was on his right. He then looked in front of him to see Kotonoha, stabbing at the piece of chicken on her plate repeatedly. She looked ready to murder someone if this went on.

"Hold on," said Warren, attempting to defuse the situation. "Your Majesties, as you must know my kohai here has a dangerous job. Your daughters may end up getting hurt. Is that what either of you want?"

"Of course not," King Eustace shook his head. "But we both know Ryuji will be sure to protect them."

"He's done it before," said King Frederick, remembering how Ryuji's future self had saved their world.

"Tell me how Ryuji's future self saved you," requested Warren. He needed details.

"Well, it was two years ago when it happened…" King Eustace began.

Kenzaki and Neko arrived at the restaurant and were immediately seated. "Wow, Ken-kun," admired Neko, "This place looks amazing."

"Thanks, Neko," Kenzaki smiled. "It's been a while since you and I had the chance to go on an actual date, so I wanted to make it special."

"Being with you is always special," said Neko, smiling back at her boyfriend.

The loving couple was unaware, however, that they were being watched. A few tables away, Kat was watching the pair with contempt and disgust. "Damn it," she cursed. "That sly wolf is putting on the moves with my sis. I can't let him steal her away." She glanced toward the waitresses and kitchen. "Hm…"

"So, what's the occasion?" asked Neko.

"I just wanted some alone time with you," said Kenzaki. "With everything that's been going on the two of us are rarely alone anymore."

"Well, we do share a train with six other people, and then there's school, work, my siblings…" listed off Neko.

"And my sibling…" added Kenzaki.

"Yes, him," nodded Neko. "Still, at least going to school has been fun. We've made some great friends along the way."

"That's true. I never had many friends growing up and I never went to high school, so it feels good to be normal for a change."

"Or as normal as we can be," sighed Neko. "Still, I'm glad that you and my sister can at least be civil with each other. Lately, I thought you two were going to try and kill each other."

'Trust me, I've wanted to' thought Kenzaki. "It's only because of you that the two of us can be like that."

"I know that one day we'll be one happy family," she said happily.

Kat, having used her shapeshifting ability to disguise herself, walked over. She had assumed the form of a tanned blonde. "Here are your menus. I'll be your waitress for this evening," she said.

Kenzaki took the menu from the disguised Kat. "Thank you," he nodded. 'Something feels off about her…'

"When you're ready to order, please call for me. My name's Kitty," said Kat as she bowed and left.

Neko looked at the menu and was shocked at the prices. "Can we afford all this?" she asked warily.

"Don't worry," assured Kenzaki. "When I was out earlier I stumbled upon an A-Class bounty. Get whatever you want."

Neko smiled widely. "Can we have all the fish dishes?" she asked.

"Of course," said Kenzaki with a nod.

"OK, what should we have for an appetizer?"

"Well, it's been a while since I've been at this restaurant, but if I remember correctly, the crab cakes are very good."

"Crab cakes!" said Neko excitedly.

Kat walked back up to them. "So, are you two ready to order? Sir, does your sister want anything?" Kat was basically mocking him. Implying he could only get a date with his sister. Kenzaki shot a glare at his "waitress".

"She's my girlfriend, not my sister," growled Kenzaki. "Neko, why don't you order first?"

"Can we have some crab cakes for an appetizer?" asked Neko.

"Would you like the special dip?" questioned Kat.

"Sure, why not?" answered Kenzaki.

"OK, crab cakes for appetizer" said Kat as she jotted it down on the notepad, which had the order and a doodle of Kenzaki in a guillotine. "Coming right up. I'll be back in a jiffy!" Kat walked to the kitchen.

"She seems nice," said Neko.

"She seems a little familiar. Does she remind you of anyone?" Kenzaki asked.

"Well…Kotonoha-chan's a waitress too." Neko didn't seem to notice anything was off at all.

Kat then walked back over to them with the crab cakes. "Here are the crab cakes! And here's the dip! Whoops!" she said as she 'accidentally' dropped the dipping bowl in Kenzaki's lap.

"That's…that's fine…accidents happen…" said Kenzaki, trying to keep his anger in check, as he wiped the dip off his lap.

"OK, how about drinks? Anything you have in mind?" asked Kat, planning on what she could do to Kenzaki's drink.

"A bottle of your finest wine," ordered Kenzaki.

"Alright. Hope you're ready to order the main course by then," she said with a wink. Kat walked off to get their order.

"Something doesn't feel right about her…but I just can't place it," said Kenzaki.

"You're being paranoid," shrugged Neko. Both were unaware that Kat was actually influencing Neko's thoughts and senses, keeping her hidden from her other half.

"Maybe, but being a bounty hunter for as long as I have will do that to you," said Kenzaki.

Kat then came back with the wine in a bucket of ice. "Here you go. Enjoy," she said, pouring the couple each a glass of wine. She hadn't done anything to spoil the wine. She respected it.

"Thank you, Kitty," said Kenzaki. "Neko, why don't you go ahead and order whatever you'd like."

"Fish and Chips," she said happily.

Kat smiled at her. "My fave too. And what about you, sir?"

"I'll have the steak, cooked medium-rare," ordered Kenzaki.

"Medium-rare steak," said Kat as she jotted it down on the notepad, as well as several ideas of how to mess with it. "OK, I'll be right back with your order."

Back in King Eustace's palace, the King of the God Kingdom had just finished his tale.

"The HorrorLiner and Sauron," Warren muttered. "I should've known." King Eustace had mentioned black skeletons with wings released by a machine with a demonic skull in the front. It was pretty obvious that Sauron had tried to destroy this world in order to absorb its essence and erase every trace of its existence because of her insatiable hunger and lust for mindless destruction.

"Well, that's explain why I saved this place…or why I am going to save this place," Ryuji rubbed his temples. "Time travel gives me headaches."

"Just don't think about it," advised Warren.

"Since then, we've been trying to track you down, especially when our daughters wouldn't shut up about you," said King Frederick.

"Then Topper showed up," Ryuji finished. The Infernal Merchant could always be found when people were desperate enough to have something and willing to pay anything for it.

"He offered to find you once we gave him the proper compensation," said King Eustace with a smile. "It wasn't cheap, mind you, but I'm not complaining about the results."

"Sorry, but I may have to decline this generous offer," spoke Ryuji. "I'm strictly a one-woman-man. Call me old-fashioned, but that's the way it is."

"Are you sure we can't change your mind?" asked King Frederick.

"At least try and get to know our daughters first," requested King Eustace. "You might like them."

"Maybe…" Ryuji glanced at Rina and Siera. "But I'm not so sure since I've made my choice." He reached across the table to take Kotonoha's hand. "And I'm sure it's the right one since we're in love."

"Oh, Ryuji-kun…" smiled Kotonoha with a blush on her cheeks.

"Well, there you go," said Warren. "Ryuji's made his choice. Sorry about this whole thing."

"Now, hold on a second," said King Eustace firmly. "You're not even giving my Siera a chance. Couldn't you at least go out on a date with her?"

"And my Rina also wants a chance to win your heart," said King Frederick with a frown. "Why not give it a chance?"

Ryuji sighed. He then heard Warren speak into his mind, 'It's sometimes best to compromise, Ryuji.'

'Fine,' Ryuji returned. "OK, I'll go on one date with each of them," said Ryuji, much to Kotonoha's shock. "But…if I don't like them, can we call this off?"

"All we want is our daughters to be happy," said King Eustace.

"Well, then, it's a deal," nodded Ryuji. He then felt Rina grab his butt. "Hey!" he snapped at her.

"Nice and firm," Rinagrinned. "I think I'm gonna like you when we share a bed."

"Don't count on it," muttered Ryuji.

Warren noted that the two kings didn't verbally agree with Ryuji's compromise. Well, one didn't become a king and stay there if he was stupid. He would have pointed out the verbal ploy, but this was a thin ice situation. Press too hard and it would piss the two kings off. And if there was one thing that Warren learned, it was that you didn't piss off gods or demons unless they really deserved it. Then again, in his experience, they always deserved it.

After dinner, Ryuji and Kotonoha retired to the DynoLiner since it was the only place that they felt they could get any privacy. Siera and Rina wanted to come onboard, but Ryuji denied them access. They didn't like it, but they really couldn't do anything about it.

"Isn't there any way we can get around this quicker?" Kotonoha asked.

At the moment, both were lying down in bed and he had his arms wrapped around her. She liked the tight embrace and wasn't going to leave it anytime soon. It was a fond reminder that she had Ryuji firmly even though the other two girls were trying to take him.

"Not really," Ryuji sighed. "I just need to go on a date with each of them and then I can cut it off. Simple as that. And they wanted to plan the dates since they want to make sure that they have the best chance of making a good impression."

"Nnnn!" Kotonoha frowned. "Why do these things have to happen?"

"My bad luck I suppose," Ryuji shrugged. "We'll get through this. Once these dates are over I'll tell the kings that it won't work out and their daughters can go find guys of their own. Sorry it had to happen like this."

"I'm not upset that you save this world in the future," Kotonoha mumbled into his chest. "And it sounds like you left before the kings could engage their daughters to you. I'm just upset that this had to land on our laps now."

Siera was in her room, drawing in her sketchbook. It'd been filled with drawings of her beloved knight who'd saved her life two years ago. Since then she'd wanted to meet him again, to be with him. She'd fallen head over heels in love and didn't care that he was human (or so she thought, unaware of his true nature).

That day she'd been playing in the garden with Rina when dark creatures suddenly dropped down from the sky and tried to eat them. She knew they had wanted to eat her and Rina. They way they'd looked at her were how a predator would leer at its prey before it pounced. Rina had tried to use her demon magic but it was ineffective against these creatures.

Then, a knight clad in black armor had appeared and slain the creatures before taking them into his vehicle to keep them safe as he battled with another vehicle similar to his own but more demonic in appearance. After the battle had been won, he returned the princesses to their fathers before vanishing.

Though Ryuji was presently reluctant about the engagement, she knew she could change her mind. Rina was sure they could win him over with their charm and feminine wiles. They were princesses and well-trained for the role of wives. Even if Ryuji was engaged to that human girl, Kotonoha, that didn't mean he couldn't have another wife or two. They just had to show him that having her and Rina would be more fun.

As Siera drew, a golden orb floated into her room. It admired her for a second before darting into her body. She gasped as sand poured out of her and compiled on the floor into a strange creature.

"Want me to make your wish come true?" asked the creature.

Meanwhile, Rina was already in bed, asleep, but she was covered in sweat and panting. The lack of clothing under her covers showed that she was sleeping in the nude. She liked to sleep naked and didn't care if anyone saw her. Deep down she wished that she would be nude alongside her future husband. Ryuji may be a little rough around the edges but that was the type of man she wanted. A strong warrior was the type of guy she wanted to marry and his demeanor proves that he was one tough cookie. If only he wasn't so resistant but Rina was sure she could wear him down.

The succubae had taught the demon princess the art of seduction. All Rina had to do was make sure Ryuji saw how fun she would be in bed. Heck, she was even willing to share with Siera. It was that human girl that she didn't like. How could Ryuji choose her over them? They were princesses after all.

Still, he was young as they were. There was still time to change his mind and soon he would be standing at the altar with her before retiring to bed together to make love and children. Rina was acrobatic in the bedroom if her tutors were right.

A golden orb entered her bed chamber and hovered above the sleeping princess. It hovered closer, 'listening' to her murmurs before finding her a satisfactory host and contractor. With what could be considered a chuckle, the orb entered her, causing her to awake with a shocked gasp. The sand spilled off her body and compiled at the foot of her bed, turning into a strange creature.

"I can help make your dream come true," the creature offered. "Whaddya say?"

Ryuji was NOT enjoying himself as he was dragged through the streets by Rina and Siera. Both girls were definitely enthusiastic on their date with him. Ryuji secretly thought that they planned to double team him in one date to try and make him forget Kotonoha. After they got him, then they would decide on who got to marry him first.

'It's not going to go that far,' Ryuji thought to himself as the girls showed him through some of the streets.

Siera was definitely a loved figure to her people. They would all wave to her and say greetings. Of course, Ryuji could have done without some people whispering how lucky he was to have her or stating how good a wife she would be. They meant well, but Ryuji was feeling absolutely murderous after the fifth one. Still, Ryuji wanted to kill Topper for pushing the two into his lap. That jerk would do anything for a profit.

Ryuji remembered the first time he'd personally met the guy. It'd been some time after he'd discovered the GenJyuKen scroll.

Ryuji found himself in Gotham City. He was just sitting on a bench, waiting for a bus, when he heard someone walk over. Gotham City was a dangerous place, especially at night, so Ryuji kept himself alert. The 'rogues' here were criminally insane, unlike the ones the Titans were used to. He then noticed someone had taken a seat next to him. From a glance, he looked like someone trying to copy the Mad Hatter's style but Ryuji's instincts were telling him that this guy wasn't human. Since the day he'd gained that Mythical Ki, his senses had become more sensitive.

"You're not human," said Ryuji bluntly and the man smiled. "Am I right?"

"And I thought my disguise was perfect," the man said, looking back at Ryuji with blue and grey eyes. "Call me Topper."

It was an alias, obviously. "I know who you are. We've met, though I was in a different form. What's your real name?" Topper chuckled.

"Oh, my real name will make you want to kill yourself," the man stated with amusement. "But I've gone by many names. It's just that Topper just stuck for a reason."

'I can see why,' Ryuji saw the top hat. "So, what brings you here to Gotham?"

"Business," Topper answered as he lit his cigar and smoked it.

"What kind of business?" asked Ryuji, partly curious and partly suspicious.

"Oh, trade," Topper answered, "Supply and demand. That sort of thing."

"I'm guessing it's not the usual thing people would buy," said Ryuji.

"I seek only those desperate enough to give up anything for anything," said Topper vaguely. "And I sense desperation coming off you, which is why I came."

"I'm not desperate," Ryuji denied.

"You're trying to become stronger, purge yourself of your inhumanity and control your bestial instincts so you can go see your lover again," stated Topper. Ryuji's eyes widened.

'Is he reading my mind?' Ryuji thought. He got his answer.

"Yes, yes I am," Topper nodded as he blew out a puff of smoke.

"Stay out of my head," Ryuji growled.

"I just thought you might be interested in what I have for you," said Topper. "Anything and everything in this world is for sale, desires included."

"Sorry," Ryuji stood up. "Whatever you're selling, I'm not buying. There's always a catch."

"It's the price one must pay for their desires. Equal price for what they wish for. Equivalent exchange."

"Sorry, but I'm not interested in making deals with the Devil," said Ryuji. The bus came and Ryuji boarded it. He stared at Topper who gave him a wave and Ryuji bristled uncomfortably. 'Creep.' The bus then drove off.

"You'll be seeing me again," Topper called. "You may never know where or when but you will. Whenever desperation is afloat in the air, I'll be there." A woman sat down on the bench next to Topper and he grinned. "Good evening, miss…"

Meanwhile, Kotonoha was walking around the marketplace, exploring the area while Athena stood close to watch over her. Athena knew Kotonoha was being stressed out by this whole business. Two princesses were actually interested in her man and she didn't like it one bit. They were, to her, thieves that were trying to steal Ryuji-kun away. Homicidal thoughts had crossed her mind but they were squashed by thoughts of Ryuji.

"Lady Kotonoha," said Athena as Kotonoha admired some beautiful hand-made pots at a stall, "Are you not worried about what is going on?"

"A little," nodded Kotonoha, "But I believe in Ryuji-kun and that he will make the right decision."

Athena frowned, "You put too much faith in that male."

"I trust him with all my heart, Athena," said Kotonoha with pure conviction as she went over to another stall.

"I'm sure you do, but I'm afraid he may break your heart," warned Athena.

Kotonoha sighed, "He won't. I believe he will never do anything that will harm me."

"As you wish to believe, My Lady."

"Come on, Athena. I think I saw a stall selling some pieces of jewelry!"

"So, how are you enjoying our date?" asked Rina. She was hoping to get Ryuji to notice her but he wasn't paying much attention to her.

"So far, it's just so and so," shrugged Ryuji. The truth was that he wasn't having fun at all. He was just thinking about what Kotonoha was doing right now. The three of them had explored the place, had a meal together, and gone to some shops and stalls. The two kings had given them enough gold to spend to their hearts content but Ryuji didn't care to use it.

Suddenly, his watch alerted him, causing the girls to just stare. "What's that?" asked Siera.

"Trouble," Ryuji told them. The compass pointed him towards the Imagin's location and also the sound of several screaming vendors. Rushing towards Ryuji was definitely an Imagin. It resembled a large muscular human with black and white skin, with a whale-like head that had a fin on top, wearing a white furred jacket, leather pants and boots. In its hands was a trident. It let loose a loud bellow that sent the peaceful vendors running scarce. King Eustace's guards tried to attack the beast but it was able to knock them out with each through the use of its blow-hole by shooting concussive jets of water at them. It then trained its eyes on Ryuji. He rolled his eyes. 'Yup, this one's after me.' He'd learnt through experience to tell how some Imagin saw him as the target.

"Ryuji Hasuma, you will choose Princess Siera!" the Orca Imagin demanded, pointing its trident threateningly at Ryuji. "Or die!"

"Girls, get behind me," said Ryuji as he stood protectively in front of the two girls. He may not want Siera as a fiancée or a wife, but she was still an innocent trapped by an Imagin's manipulation. He responded, "Sorry, but I'm taken."

"Then die!" The Orca Imagin charged, its trident leveled to skewer the Rider.

A-Kotonoha dodged out of the way from one of the Shark Imagin's spear strikes. Its weapon was a spear with the blade shaped like a shark's fin. "Stand still so I can kill you!" The Shark Imagin had just jumped out of nowhere, brandishing its weapon. It looked human, to an extent, with a fin on top its scale covered head, clad in black bodysuit with fins on the forearms and shoulders. Armored plating hung from its belt like a skirt and strapped to its chest was a chestplate shaped like the jaw bones of a shark. When it grinned, the Shark Imagin showed razor-sharp teeth.

'I have the feeling one of those princesses made a wish,' said Kotonoha.

"I agree, my lady," nodded A-Kotonoha as she held her sword. She didn't have any Rider armor but at least she could protect Kotonoha better while driving her body. Still, where was Warren when she needed him.

The Shark Imagin charged again, spear aimed at the Imagin possessed girl when suddenly the spear was caught by its shaft and then a fist slammed into the Shark Imagin's back, knocking it backwards. The spear was now in the new figure's hand.

"Took you long enough," huffed A-Kotonoha.

"The kings talked me into a drinking contest," said Warren. "So, need help?"

"It is in my host's best interest that you do assist us, Warren Smith," said A-Kotonoha with a frown.

"OK," nodded Warren. "And…SHATTER!"

Ryuji performed a dodge-roll before getting up. He sat on one knee before he curled his fingers. He scraped his nails along the ground, causing blue flames to ignite from his fingertips, before pulling his hair. He threw his hair back and roared as he got to his feet. The blue flames engulfed him and dispersed to reveal his bestial Ifrit Orphenoch form. The princesses gasped and while Siera showed feared, Rina's face showed fascination. 'Definitely something I didn't expect. A nice surprise, though.'

The Ifrit Orphenoch lunged at the Orca Imagin who'd been taken by surprise. With the ferocity of a feral beast, the Orphenoch slashed at the Imagin, ripping off sparks and sand, as he attacked savagely and without mercy. The Imagin howled in pain from each strikes before being sent flying with a double-footed kick in the chest that sent it crashing to the floor.

The Ifrit Orphenoch got on all fours before opening his mouth. He then unleashed a torrent of ice-cold flames that engulfed the Imagin. The Orca Imagin was unable to dodge and was frozen solid. Popping his neck, the Orphenoch reverted back to human form before snorting, "Weakling."

He turned around to face the girls and asked Siera, "Alright, did you make a wish recently?" But before he could get an answer, he heard the ice cracking. It then exploded, freeing the Orca Imagin who looked mad judging by the steam coming out of its flaring nostrils. "Alright, maybe you're not a weakling."

"You will choose!" the Imagin said forcefully.

"URUSEI!" Ryuji shouted as he swung the belt around his waist and fastened it on. "Henshin!" He pressed the white button and swiped the Dyno Pass over the buckle.

"TYRANO FORM!"

Wraith stalked toward the Imagin. "Let's make this quick," said Wraith. "It's been a while since I had booze this good and I don't want it to go to waste." The Shark Imagin swung its spear at Wraith, only for it to be swatted away. Wraith then drew his gun and began blasting the Imagin. The Imagin staggered back as each shot hit its mark.

Wraith then swung out his arms, spiked chains shooting out and piercing its shoulders. He then pulled his arms backwards, having the Imagin fly at him. When in range Wraith slammed hit foot into the Imagin's gut before lifting it up and slamming it into the ground.

"Man, you're weak," sighed Wraith. Wraith drew his gun again and pointed it at the Shark Imagin. Dark energy began to gather at the barrel of the gun. "See ya!" shouted the Rider as he fired. The dark energy hit the imagin with enough force to cause it sliding backward, but other than that did no damage.

"Heh, and you called me weak," laughed the Shark Imagin as he charged at Wraith. Wraith merely snapped his fingers and the Shark Imagin stopped in its tracks. It then started to convulse before it imploded.

Wraith explained to A-Kotonoha, "My Singularity Bullet. It creates a mini black hole within the target, causing the target to eventually implode on itself."

"Impressive," the Imagin possessed girl admitted.

Tyrano Form may not have much in terms of defense, but it had speed and power to make up for the lack of protection. The armor could only take so much damage but at least it gave him the power, speed and ferocity of the King of Dinosaurs. He was wailing on the Orca Imagin, using his bare hands and feet to knock it around like a rag doll. His right leg sliced through the air, connecting with the side of the monster's head before he followed up with a back kick into its midsection, causing it to stagger back in pain. He then charged ahead with punishing jabs into the Orca Imagin's chest. One uppercut sent it staggering again and then Ifrit used a front snap kick to send it crashing into a wall.

"Heh," Ifrit laughed. "I don't even need my weapons."

The Imagin growled and then fired a jet of water using its blow hole. The water went flying at Ifrit but with his superior speed he was able to dodge out of the way from the attack. He jumped up when he got in range before coming crashing down on its head with the heel of his right foot.

Rina and Siera watched from where they were taking cover. Rina smiled in admiration as her hubby-to-be was fighting that creature while Siera looked on in worry since he could get hurt.

The Orca Imagin got its second wind and stabbed Ifrit in the chest, causing sparks to fly. Ifrit withheld the urge to cry out in pain as the Orca Imagin attacked furiously, stabbing the prongs of its trident into Ifrit repeatedly before throwing him over its head to the ground. The Imagin then stood over the Rider and thrust its trident down but Ifrit managed to blur out of the way and the weapon stabbed into the ground instead of steel and flesh.

Ifrit got back to his feet and spread his arms out to the side. The Tyrano-Shoulders slid along his arms and stopped at his fists. The 'jaws' opened and red blades slid out. He crossed his blades in front of him and charged.

The Orca Imagin attacked with its trident but the white Rider spun out of the way and then slashed down with his left sword, slicing the Imagin's weapon in half. He then attacked savagely once his opponent was unarmed and started slashing wildly like he had before in his Orphenoch form. The Imagin wasn't giving the chance to defend itself as Ifrit continued with his savage attack. The Rider had a lot of anger and frustration on his shoulders and he needed a way to vent so he was taking it out on this Imagin who was unlucky enough to catch him on a bad day.

The Tyrano-Katana slid back into its T-Rex head. The head then slid back up Ifrit's left arm and snapped back onto his shoulder as he took out his pass. It was time to put this beast out of its misery. "Time for extinction," Ifrit spoke coldly as he waved the pass in front of his belt.

"FULL CHARGE!"

Ifrit tossed the pass aside as the energy zigzagged from his belt into his Tyrano-Katana. With a burst of incredible speed, Ifrit rushed towards the Imagin and used his famous 'X' slash attack. He slashed the Imagin from its right shoulder to its left hip and then slashed it again from its left shoulder to its right hip. He then used a kick to send the Orca Imagin flying. The X-shaped gash in its chest glowed red and the Imagin let loose a howl of pain before it exploded in a fiery blaze. The Rider's weapon then slid back into the T-Rex head which slid back up to its default position on Ifrit's shoulder.

Kenzaki then decided it was time for the final part of his plan. He had taken Neko to the park they'd visited during their first real date. There was a symbolic meaning to it. This was where Kenzaki had saved the girl's life years ago. "Ken-kun, what are we doing here?" asked Neko.

"Well, this is an important place for us. In a way, this is where we first met," said Kenzaki.

"Back when I was a full being…" Neko looked down sadly. "Back when Kat and I shared a body with the…Living Gate."

Kenzaki put his hands in her shoulders. "Back before the Living Gate. Back when you were just a little girl playing with her brother."

"I remember," nodded Neko. "The jealousy awoke something bad in me. He got chosen over me even though I…we were the first born."

Kenzaki cupped her chin and made her look up at him. "But now, to me, you are the most important person in the world."

"So, why are we here, really?" She looked around, and saw they were the only ones there. "Are you going to have your way with me here? Eek!" she shrieked jokingly.

"No nothing like that," denied Kenzaki. "Though the thought is tempting. Neko, we've been together for a long time, haven't we?"

"Two years," the girl nodded. Neither one realized that Kat was hiding in the bushes. She picked up a rock and then tossed it at Kenzaki's head.

Kenzaki discretely moved his head out of the way, having sensed the rock coming for his head. "Well, recently I've been thinking…about us and our future together."

Kat tossed a few more rocks "And...OW!" shouted Neko as a rock hit her in the head.

"Shit!" cursed Kat.

"You OK, Neko?" asked Kenzaki.

"Something hit me," said the girl, rubbing her head.

"Hm, that's strange. Maybe we should keep walking then."

"Yes…we should," nodded Neko.

Kat was still watching them as they left. "Mental note, no more rocks," the anti-heroic Rider muttered to herself.

Kenzaki and Neko walked to a secluded area, though Kat is still watching them. "Neko, I have something very important to ask you. Neko…" said Kenzaki.

"What is it?" asked Neko.

Kenzaki pulled a ring out of his jacket pocket and got down on one knee, presenting the ring to Neko. "Neko…will you marry me?"

"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!" shrieked Kat as she leapt out of the bushes and tackled Kenzaki to the ground. "Bastard! I won't let you steal my better half away!!!"

"Nee-chan!?" shouted Neko.

"Get off me you lunatic!" barked Kenzaki.

"No way! I'll kill you! I'll kill you!" snarled Kat.

"I said GET OFF!!" he growled as he kicked Kat off of him.

Kat stood up and got ready to turn into a Rider. "Hen-"

"STOP!!!" cried Neko.

Kat froze. Only Neko could stop her when she got like this, barely sometimes. "But…Neko-chan…He's no good for you!" shouted Kat.

"It's my choice…and my answer is…No."

Kat, upon hearing that final word, shouted out in joy, "Yes!"

Kenzaki, on the other hand, looked completely devastated. "Neko…can I ask why?"

"I don't think I can be a good wife, yet. I lack training in that field," answered Neko.

"I don't care about that!" shouted Kenzaki. "You could be the worst wife in the world and I wouldn't care! As long as I'm with you that wouldn't matter to me."

"I know, but I can't accept your proposal. I still need to redeem myself further."

Kenzaki's shoulders slumped and his head drooped as his hopes seemed to suddenly come crashing down around him. "…Fine" said Kenzaki as he turned around and began walking away, his depression obvious to the two girls. "I'll…I'll talk to you later. I gotta go clear my head."

"Ken-kun…" said Neko sadly. She hated seeing him like this. It was like he was a different person right now. She could tell that her rejection had completely crushed his spirit. She reached out and grabbed his shirt, pulling him into a deep kiss, her tongue immediately darting into his mouth. Kat's jaw drop as she watched but her words got caught in her throat. She was sputtering as she watched Neko sucking face with Kenzaki. After about 2 minutes, she pulled away, gasping and licking her lips.

Kenzaki looked at Neko in shock. "OK…what was that for?" he asked.

"Call it an 'engaged to be engaged' kiss," said Neko with a wink.

"I give up!" shouted Kat. "Fine! Do what you want! I don't care! See ya!" She stuck her tongue out at the couple as she ran off to catch a ride on the ChronoLiner. But anyone that knew Kat well enough knew that she had far from given up. No, she had something much bigger planned.

Kenzaki, though looking a little happier, still looked very depressed. "I still need to be alone for a little bit, Neko. I just…need to clear my head for a little bit."

Neko hated seeing him depressed, but decided that this could be taken care of later. "I'll see you at home then," said Neko as she kissed his cheek. "I need some alone time too."

"And don't worry," assured Gekiryuken. "I'll be watching after her."

"Well, at least I know I can trust you, Gekiryuken," said Kenzaki.

"As I trust you, Kenzaki-sama," responded Gekiryuken.

"I'll see you both later," said Kenzaki as he left. He needed some time to think. The GaroLiner had pulled up next to him and released the Machine Garo-Hunter. He mounted the bike, gave Neko a wave, and put on his helmet before driving off. Neko watched him go in silence.

It didn't take long for news of Ryuji's victory over the Orca Imagin to reach the kings' ears. He'd basically protected the two princesses which just made the kings believe further that Ryuji was the right man for their daughters. Warren's victory was also noted but he insisted he'd just been at the right place at the right time. Ryuji was livid, however, since he knew the two princesses were at fault because they'd made wishes with the Imagin.

"This is bullshit!" Ryuji hissed. He, Loki, and the girls were all back on the DynoLiner after the failed attempt at breaking the engagements. The kings just wouldn't listen to a word he said since they kept drunkenly singing about how perfect he was for their daughters. Ryuji had been in a sour attitude since then. "I try to get out of this situation and instead it gets worse. Just perfect."

"You know, I really don't get what your problem with this is," Rina huffed. "Two hot girls appear and say they want to marry you. They're princesses with the key to taking it easy for the rest of your life. Most guys would be thanking whatever gods they worship for the chance. Instead, you cuss and curse and try to find a way out of it. Just what the hell is so bad about me and Siera that you don't want to at least get to know us?"

"Have you not been listening?" Ryuji growled. "I WANT TO MARRY KOTONOHA! I don't know a single thing about either of you and I am not interested. I am in love with Kotonoha and am going to marry her."

"The reason you aren't interested is because you're not giving us a chance!" Rina growled. "You're allowed to marry three women. Why the hell aren't you even considering it?"

"Because I only want to marry one girl!" Ryuji snapped. "That's how it is with me! One girl is enough for me!"

"Then what if you can't have kids with her?" asked Rina. "Suddenly a second wife is looking pretty good when you want an heir."

"If that happens then Koto-chan and I would just adopt," Ryuji shrugged. "I'm so not going to knock up some random girl just so I can claim the kid is really mine."

"That doesn't make any sense," Rina grumbled.

Siera asked, "Then how can you pass your genes to the next generation? Lawful titles? Property?"

"It's called a Will," Ryuji answered. "Answer your question?"

Kenzaki sat at the bar, downing yet another drink. 'She said no…Why did she say no?!' He had spent the past two years working up to that one moment. That one moment when she would say yes and everything would be perfect, even to the point that Kat couldn't mess it up.

But she said no…

He signaled the bartender for another drink. Kenzaki twirled the ring between his fingers. "She said no…" he muttered for the umpteenth time that night. Did she not see them having a future together? Was her entire life focused on her self-imposed mission of redemption? He didn't get it. After two years he thought she would trust him enough to at least let him help on the mission, to let him into her life. Obviously he was wrong.

He felt like this was the end of the road, that no matter what he did their relationship would never progress. He'd never be intimate with Neko because she didn't want to get married, thus their first time could never be "special".

"Hey, buddy…" slurred a drunk as he pointed at Kenzaki. "I don't like you."

"I don't care," said Kenzaki as he downed another drink and signaled for another one. "I'm in a real bad mood so just back off and I won't be forced to smash your face into the bar." The drunk didn't take his advice and threw a fist at Kenzaki. True to his word, Kenzaki dodged the fist and grabbed the back of the guy's head, before slamming it into the bar. He then grabbed his drink and downed it like so many others before signaling for another one. He turned around and saw several of the drunk's buddies standing around him, looking pissed and ready to fight.

"This is gonna be a long night…" muttered Kenzaki.

From a table, a man in a top hat watched as Kenzaki fought the other drunks. He took a sip of his drink and smirked, "Another business opportunity."

ZK Chromedragozoid: Looks like relationship problems again. Wonder if things will get better?