8:01 p.m.
At this time, many people would've gone out for hanging out at bars, going to dates or doing whatever they're doing. But not for one man, for he is going to visit an old acquaintance. In an old apartment building made of bricks and eight stories high, Noah got off the elevator and went right down the hall until he reached Rm. 47. He faces the door and stays that way for a while until it's time. Coincidentally, as he is about to ring the door bell, the stereo is begins to play Elvis Costello's "The Sweetest Punch". Noah sighs about this. For some reason, the song is more like based on his life. That's life, for there are some ways to remind you of the past. He couldn't figure out why Zachariah has a thing for collecting music from different worlds. He erases his thoughts as he rings the doorbell. A few seconds later, he could hear Zachariah's loud voice from inside.
ZACH: About fucking time!
Noah prepares for the inevitable as Zach opens the door.
ZACH: What the hell's taking my food so lo-
Zach looks in front of him and in his shock, sees Noah standing there. But before his mind could barely register, Noah suddenly punches him in the face very hard and sends him back at the room.
You only saw red
After I said, "how can we continue?"
Hidden from your view
In the blue corner that I painted myself into
Then we started to fight
And it changed everything
Here's the ring
Noah enters the room and as Zach gets up, the former throws a right jab. Zach blocks it but is quickly countered by a left forward kick which connects to the chest. Zach staggers a bit and Noah performs a right jumping spinning roundhouse, but this time Zach ducks the attack. Noah then throws a left hook, but then Zach grabs his arm and proceeds to throw him to the wooden bookshelf. Noah crashes there which results destroying the bookshelf with all the books falling off as he hits the ground.
You dropped the band, I can't understand it
Not after all we've been through
Words start to fly, my glass jaw and I
Will find one to walk right into
Zach approaches him with fierce determination to beat him up but as he's near him, Noah quickly kicks him in the face using both of his feet and sends him crashing down to the glass table. Zach winces in pain from the impact. His forehead is bleeding and his left cheek is cut from the broken glass. He slowly gets up and tries to manage his composure but Noah gets up and tackles him back to the ground. Noah grabs Zach's hair, head locks him and then proceeds to bang his head very hard by hitting him on the wooden floor several times. During at this time, Zach struggles to get out of Noah's grasp but couldn't. It wasn't until he spots a large vase standing on the floor which is in front of him. After a few tries, he finally gets the vase and smashes it at Noah's head. Noah yelps in pain and let go of Zach.
You knocked me out
It was the sweetest punch
The bell goes...
Can hear it ringing, but I didn't see it coming
We all say things we don't mean
You can't take it back
Zach gets up and grabs the spear which is hanging in the wall as a display. He has a thing for collecting stuff from other worlds. He then lunges the spear at Noah's face but the latter, who is still on the ground catches it and tries to get it off from him but Zach pushes the weapon at him. Noah can feel the tip of the blade touching at his nose. Using all his strength, he finally breaks the wooden part of the spear, kicks Zach's stomach and sends another kick at his face which sends him flying back to a cabinet behind him. Zach goes to the right side of the cabinet and pulls it down at Noah, resulting in a big crash. Immediately, Zach goes to the kitchen while Noah removes the cabinet away from him and follows him.
Now the room is spinning, but was I the last to notice?
I can see I'll never win
So if you're going
Then you better go to him
Then you better go to him
Although Noah has been to Zach's apartment several times, he doesn't know the complete layout of the place so he's a having a hard time finding him. It wasn't until he finally enters the kitchen when all of the sudden, Zach surprises him by pulling bushwhack on him in the form of a huge knife attack. Zach lunges the knife at Noah yet the latter avoids the blade. After a few swings and missed thrusts, Noah grabs a frying pan and counters the attack by blocking the knife. Zach swipes the knife which causes Noah to backtrack a little and counter it by kicking him in the face. Zach regains his balance as the brown haired warrior charges at him. Zach throws a wooden chair at him, yet Noah dodges it. Zach sees the opening and proceeds to pull a flying kick at Noah's face which sends him flying to the other room.
I only saw stars
I dropped my guard, and that's how it ended
What was I to do
In the blue corner where I seemed to hang suspended?
Then with seconds to go
You delivered the blow
Here I go
Noah lands down hard on the table. He quickly gets up when he sees Zach charges at him with the knife planning to finish him off. Zach tries to stab him but as Noah quickly avoided the attack, the knife got stuck on the table. Zach successfully removes the knife but to his utter surprise, Noah hits him with a chair very hard that sends him back to the living room. Noah unsheathes his SOG knife from his right pocket and enters the living room. Zach immediately gets up, picks up the knife on the floor, and positions himself in a fighting stance.
You dropped the band, I can't understand it
Not after all we've been through
Words start to fly, my glass jaw and I
Will find one to walk right into
You knocked me out
It was the sweetest punch
The bell goes...
I can hear it ringing, but i didn't see it coming
We all say things we don't mean
You can't take it back
The two men stalk each other with their knives. Zach backs up a little bit in a defensive mode while Noah slowly follows him. Each is waiting for each other to attack and make a mistake so that one will finish the other. Zach pulls a fake thrust but Noah knows better by being on guard. Then, Noah quickly crouched down and pulls a leg sweep which catches his opponent by surprise. Zach falls down and the brunette sees this chance. The latter rushes at top of him and aims the SOG knife at him. But as the blade reaches him, Zach grabs Noah's arms trying to get off him. After a little struggle, Zach punches Noah at the face and immediately placed his right leg at the latter's chest and pushes him with much force over him to the…
Now the room is spinning, but was I
the last to notice?
I can see I'll never win
So if you're going
Then you better go to him
Then you better go to-
…to the large black stereo which is destroyed as Noah is thrown over to it. The song stopped playing and Zach is mortified that his favorite stereo has been destroyed. He wanted to stop fighting before his entire apartment will be wrecked. Noah slowly yet painfully gets up and tries to regain his composure but he sees Zach looking at him with disbelief and horror. But what he says surprises him.
ZACHARIAH: Do you want some coffee?
Noah gave him a hard look but realizes that he doesn't want the rest of his place destroyed. He agrees at this and puts back the SOG knife at his sheath.
NOAH: Yeah sure.
Zach goes to the kitchen with Noah following him. Noah closes the front door and proceeds to the owner of the apartment's direction. Zach goes to the kitchen counter, puts the knife at its place and proceeds to make coffee. Noah grabs a chair and sat down while waiting for his coffee to be served by the long gray-haired man with a ponytail. Zach is three inches taller than him and has a body of a regular fit man.
ZACH: You still take cream and sugar?
NOAH: Yeah. But, lower the sugar. I'm cutting back.
Zach complies at his request and afterwards, gives the coffee to him. In exchange, Noah says "thanks" to him and drinks it. After a few sips, Zach gives him a pissed off look.
ZACH: You know you're going to pay the damages.
NOAH: Sorry. I was in the moment.
ZACH: Moment of what? Invading my home and proceed to wreck it? [sighs] Who am I kidding? It's you we're talking about.
NOAH: And so it seems. [drinks his coffee] Were you expecting me?
ZACH: Yes and no. Veral contacted to tell me to be on full alert. The Keybearer has been found and immediately disposed the Cnith, the slayer of the Keybearers. I suppose this was your doing?
NOAH: [shrugs] Hey, don't blame me. Just doing my job. Who were you waiting for anyway?
ZACH: The delivery guy. [looks at his watch] It's been thirty minutes! I should get it for free by now!
NOAH: Relax. I saw him sniffing dope outside your apartment.
ZACH: [shocked] That son of a-
NOAH: [coldly] I need the stuff.
Zach's surprised by Noah. He knows about it and by the looks of him, he wanted it now.
ZACH: Why?
NOAH: Well, I need it pretty bad. If you refuse to give it to me, we might play again and this time I'll make sure to use everything in this room especially the kitchen sink to beat you.
ZACH: [furiously] Look, motherfucker. I need to know if you're going to pull more shit around here!
NOAH: [calmly] You can relax for now. I'm not gonna murder you yet, okay?
ZACH: [looks at Noah carefully] That's more rational than Veral led me to believe you were capable of.
NOAH: It's mercy, compassion and forgiveness I lack, not rationality. And who is Veral to judge at people? It completely shows his total ignorance even though he is quite smart.
Noah continues to drink his coffee and proceeds to talk.
NOAH: I'm not going to sit around here and chit-chat. You know why I'm here. I need it so that I can finish this mess once and for all.
ZACH: ****
NOAH: Don't interrupt! You better stop stalling me or I will place your head as a display at the Badlands.
ZACH: [sighs] Look, first and foremost, I'm sorry. I'm sorry I pulled that shit on you long ago. I wish I hadn't but I did. If I didn't, they would kill me.
NOAH: Oh boo hoo. You did it and you weren't the only one. End of story.
ZACH: You have every right to get even.
NOAH: Oh no, no, no, no. To get even, even Steven, I would have to kill you. Go to the Council, kill everyone there. And then challenge Veral while I'm at it. Kill him too. That would be even, Zachariah. [draws a square in the air] That would be square.
ZACH: [pause] You don't scare me. And besides, you don't know how to use it.
NOAH: I already know how thanks to some advance training.
ZACH: The old man thought you how to do it? I'm…surprised.
NOAH: No you're not.
ZACH: I'm telling the truth. No one wouldn't last a day with that old fucker, let alone a minute. Guess that old myth about him isn't true after all.
NOAH: [shrugs] Guess I'm a special case then. By the way, still believe that myth. It's true. Under his tutelage, you'll be suffering in hell for a thousand years.
Zach turns around and finishes his coffee. He puts the mug at the kitchen sink. After much thought, he looks at Noah.
ZACH: Well then. If you want it so much, it's in my room. Under the bed to be exact. But, you have to kill me first.
NOAH: That would be very easy.
ZACH: Don't get your hopes up bitch.
As they continue to talk, Zach pulls down the cereal box from the top of the fridge and puts it on the kitchen counter. He then gets the bowl and a spoon from the cabinet. Noah stands up and leans back at the wall not too far from Zach.
NOAH: Isn't a bit late for a cereal?
ZACH: No dinner. I don't know how to cook. One of my biggest regrets of my life. [puts the cereal at the bowl] By the way, what was the name of the Keybearer you were helping?
NOAH: Ranma Saotome. Excellent fighter. He was trained at martial arts ever since he was young. Good guy with a good heart. Sadly, he's egotistical and a very arrogant prick. Hates losing so that would make him a sore loser. He's got companions but from what I've gathered, they would rather kiss Heartless ass than be together.
ZACH: Knowing you, you'd beat him into bloody pulp and snatch his eye out with the Eagle's Claw technique. Go easy on him. [pauses] Hold that thought, do that technique on him and I'll give you a blowout by painting Twilight Town red.
NOAH: If he pulls that arrogant b.s., he's gonna get it.
ZACH: I was told he was cursed.
NOAH: Yeah. Cursed from the Jusenkyo springs. Cold water he turns into a girl, while hot water resumes his normal form.
ZACH: Oh. He came from that world? One of the three connections? Wait, Fahnir didn't know he was cursed.
NOAH: Let him be.
ZACH: He must have been pretty fucked up about his curse.
NOAH: I don't know. By all accounts, with that curse, he could've been a pervert. But no, he is an honorable person. Too honorable, in fact. In one occasion, his honor demands that he would not hit women.
ZACH: Tough for him. He hasn't met Shiri yet. She would enjoy beating the bloody pulp out of him. If that happens…
NOAH: He might change to his girl form. Who knows? By the way, you were damn sloppy while we were fighting.
ZACH: Oh shut up. Got busy for the council.
NOAH: You know, you can always stick your blade at my ass.
ZACH: [snorts] Very funny asshole.
Unknown to Noah, a gun is hidden inside the cereal box. Zach was told to stop Noah at all costs, so he plans for a simple bushwhack. His hand slowly reaches inside the box and grabs the gun.
ZACH: VERY FUNNY!
Zach fires the gun inside the cereal box at Noah but the latter dodges it. Using his instincts, he quickly throws the mug at him. Zach dodges it. In a second, Noah whips out his SOG knife and throws it at Zach's chest. The gray-haired man falls down, dropping the cereal box. Both men looked at each other and then Zach dies. Noah grabs the knife from his body, grabs the towel at the sink and cleans it. Then, Noah throws the towel aside and glance at the dead man before proceeding to his room. He looks down the bed and grabs a medium-built wooden box. He opens it and looks at the medium-shaped sphere that would be easily carried. It was shining as if it's sensing a presence around it. He grabs it and gets out of the apartment.
Not too far away, a long straight haired blonde woman watches the events that take place. She grabs her cellphone from her leather trench coat and dials a number.
???: Hello? Yes, he got it. He even killed Zach. Guess to show that he's completely gone apeshit. What now? [pauses] Understood.
She places her phone back at her pocket and disappears.
************
Deep down inside the mountain, to which the locals call "the mountain you would want to skip but couldn't" and others "Mt. Temptation", Ranma and Akane are tired from the running away from the chaos. Both are breathing rapidly and resting. Even up to now, they still don't know what was going on. Aside from minor cuts, they're okay as of the moment. Ranma looks at her companion who is scanning through the pages of the book she had in her pocket.
RANMA: [curious] What are you-
AKANE: A solution to everything!
RANMA: Do you know how to use that?
AKANE: Um, no. But it might help Lina a bit.
RANMA: You seem to forget this place is magic proof!
AKANE: I recalled Zelgadiss said that the spells in this book are some of the things he hasn't seen before.
RANMA: That's because he lacks social skills to ask where they come from.
AKANE: You're mean! What's that got to do with our situation?
RANMA: Stop babbling and read how we get out of this mess! Oh, while you're at it, can you find the cure of our conditions?
AKANE: [frustrated] Stop bossing me around!
RANMA: [panics] Read the damn book, butch!
AKANE: [angry] Who the hell are you calling butch, androgynous freak?
Before any of them could start an argument, Lina is suddenly flown back to a wall. The two girls quickly came to her aid.
AKANE: You-
LINA: That fish poop! I'm going to flay her if that's the last I do! Dammit! Why is this place magic proof?!
AKANE: I don't know but I think I know how to counter Naga.
Lina quickly listens to her.
LINA: Spill.
AKANE: Okay, um where do I begin? Okay, I think Naga's magic isn't from this world. This place only seals up magic from this world. Since, we're dealing with outside magic, the seal's function would be useless.
LINA: [growing impatiently] Okay, okay. How do I fight back?
AKANE: Zelgadiss said that this book I'm holding [she shows Lina the book] might be like Naga's. You know, from the outside world.
LINA: Outside magic vs. outside magic. Not bad. But I can't memorize everything in that book in an instant!
RANMA: [deadpanned] Wow, the great Lina Inverse showing a moment of weakness.
LINA: Give me the book and I'll sent your sorry ass to the underworld!
AKANE: [to Ranma] Why can't you be nice? [groans] Oh what's the use? I think you might be a persistent jerk in your previous memory.
LINA: Akane, give me the book. I'm serious.
Akane looks at the red-haired sorceress. She could tell that she is serious.
AKANE: But it may take sometime to memorize the spells.
LINA: Who says I'm going to read the book?
Akane gives her the book. Lina puts it down and hopes that this little experiment works. She puts her hands on the book and chants a few words. Just then, the book begins to show a white aura around it. The aura suddenly envelopes Lina but Akane and Ranma notice as if she was struggling. Then, the words from the book externally enter Lina's body and this continues until all the words that are shown in the book covers Lina. It looks like she had a tattoo job gone bad but the words entered inside of her and in a flash of light, Lina is sent back to the wall. Akane approaches her while Ranma looks at the book. To her surprise, the entire book is empty. No words in the book.
LINA: [groans] Ow…
RANMA: What the hell did you do?
LINA: That…was…some…stuff…
Akane helps her to get up. Lina looks like she was an addict to drugs based on her look.
LINA: Wow…I feel…powerful…
AKANE: What did you do?
LINA: Wow…
RANMA: Yo, flat chest. [snaps her fingers in front of Lina]
AKANE: What's going on?
LINA: [takes a deep breath and manages to regain her composure] I absorbed the entire book.
RANMA: [looks at the book] You can say that.
LINA: I was confronting Naga and she beat me without breaking a sweat. Me, Gourry and Zelgadiss were fighting her. Before that, I formulate strategies on how to beat her. But I was on the losing end since my magic is sealed.
RANMA: And you absorbing the book is your last resort?
LINA: Actually, I haven't thought about that. It just occurred to me. Don't ask why. But casting a spell on yourself seems to work. [grins] Now, I'm going to beat that goldfish poop!
AKANE: Whoa! Wait! What about…
LINA: I remember the spells courtesy of my own. Another great job of-
NAGA: (Nice. I like you better when you were an innocent girl courtesy of that mirror back then. Remember that?)
Lina looks around in a confused manner.
RANMA: What the-
LINA: COME OUT, POOPHEAD! I CAN TAKE YOU NOW!
NAGA: (Now, now. You wouldn't do that. And besides, you look ridiculous with your two pin head companions)
RANMA: Hey, what-
NAGA: (Hey Lina, I forgot to tell you two things: one, the redhead you're hanging out is the one I'm really after. You're just the sideshow)
Lina looks at Ranma carefully. She knew there was something about her, aside from the sex change curse.
LINA: Tell me. Who is she?
NAGA: (Well…I don't know.)
Lina dropped her jaw to the ground. After all those taunts, surely she would give her the answer. Then again, you can't expect Naga to tell you everthing.
LINA: WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU DON'T KNOW?
NAGA: (I met this guy who told me everything while we were having…HEY! Why should I tell you? But I'll tell you what. You can challenge me right now. Besides, it time to show who's queen. Oh, before I forget, here's number two: here's a gift for you flat-chested loser.)
Lina felt something burning inside of her. She has a hard time breathing and is starting to hyperventilate. Her eyes became black and she's is babbling some unknown language to Akane and Ranma. Then, she received cuts that made her scream so painfully.
AKANE: Oh no! What's wrong with her?
RANMA: [shocked] I…I…
Ranma is too shocked to finish his answer as he continues to witness Lina's magical torture. Blood starts trickling from her eyes, nose, ears and mouth as she continues to scream. Ranma couldn't take this anymore. She wanted to help her, despite her getting her nerves from time to time. Akane tries to reach Lina but is pulled away by an unknown force. Ranma does the same thing and suffered the same fate as Akane. Then, Ranma suddenly clutches her chest. She falls on her knees and vomits blood. She then receive cuts on her body like Lina's. Akane cowers to the side, fearing for her two companions. She is about to scream when all of the sudden Ranma's body begins to glow in a glimmer of light. Ranma felt somewhat comfortable and at peace. It was as if her heart has been protecting her from whatever is trying to kill her. The light within her also affected Lina and in a few seconds, both girls recovered from their mystical and physical wounds. In exchange, the light somehow knocks Naga out from her current position and lands on the floor. Naga gets up slowly and learns that she received a wound on her forehead. She's upset but nevertheless, she's ready for a showdown with her rival. Akane goes to them and helps them get up carefully.
AKANE: Please fill me in and tell what happened?
LINA: Naga…did some spell on us. [mutters] Crazy bitch.
AKANE: [to Ranma] And you. What was that all about? What are you?
RANMA: You're talking to me as if I'm not human.
AKANE: You change sexes. Anything on the opposite side?
LINA: What was that? Why were you glowing?
RANMA: I…wait…
Ranma was at loss of words at the moment. His mind has been a little blur.
RANMA: I don't know. [to Lina] What the hell is going on?
LINA: Naga. She's communicating with me telepathically. Guess it's safe to say she's under some sort of influence. Besides, she doesn't know how to use a telepathy spell.
RANMA: What about the one when we were under attacked?
LINA: Naga also. But, it's not her. Something's controlling her inside.
RANMA: And this call for eccentric?
LINA: It's exorcism dummy. No choice, but I have to fight her first.
RANMA: While you're at it, why don't you help us-
LINA: Later, she-man! [with fierce determination] Now, Naga will see that it's not wise to mess with me!
Lina teleports to Naga's current location. Ranma and Akane just stood there.
AKANE: Seems Lina wants her to beat her badly.
RANMA: After what's she's done to her? Heck, if I were in her position I'd kick the Wicked Witch of The West's ass. Then I'd ask Shampoo to help me beat her up. [laughs] Shampoo, what a funny name.
AKANE: What do we do now?
RANMA: Look for the others unless we run to their corpses.
AKANE: You're not funny to begin with.
RANMA: Memory or no memory, you're such a killjoy.
************
Ryoga is on lookout for monsters that were chasing them. It has been an hour since they split up. Now, it was him and Ukyo. Both are hiding at the moment. Ryoga looked at the amnesiac okonomiyaki chef who is sleeping due to the running. He looked at her carefully. Beautiful and cute, he thought of her. When they woke up, they thought that they were a couple. Yet, deep down, there is something wrong about their union. He thought it was just one of those things that came into his mind and then goes away. But the more he thinks about it, the more it stuck on him. Why? Was it so wrong to love someone like her? He thinks a lot like what was she really like before she lost her memory? What was he like before? Ryoga erases those thoughts as he wakes up Ukyo carefully.
RYOGA: Um, Ukyo, [shakes her carefully] wake up.
UKYO: [groggily] H-huh? Oh, Ryo-
RYOGA: We have to find the others and keep moving.
UKYO: But I'm tired.
RYOGA: I know, but we can't stay here. Those creatures will find us.
UKYO: You can fight them. Right?
RYOGA: Well…[beams proudly] I laugh at the face of danger! [embarrassed] Then I'd run away from it.
UKYO: [rolls eyes] Some hero. Why don't you sit down first?
RYOGA: We can't.
UKYO: Please?
Ryoga groans. One of the things he hates the most is Ukyo giving him the cute look whenever she wants it to gain her needs. He didn't mind it on the other hand, being with the girl he likes.
UKYO: You know, if we survive, maybe we could…
Ukyo whispers something to Ryoga through his ear. Hearing on what she just said, he suddenly began to burst blood on his nose. Ukyo is shocked at Ryoga's reaction.
UKYO: Ryoga?
RYOGA: [wipes his nose] T-this is…this is nothing! Yeah, yeah! It's usually my erection, I mean my reaction when I hear something that pleases me, er, I mean that nerves me.
UKYO: Are…[doesn't know how to say it] you a pervert? [that would be the understatement of the year]
RYOGA: NO! No I'm not! What makes you think that I am?
UKYO: Well your nose is bleeding.
RYOGA: It means nothing! And you're the one who wanted to…"do" it! So don't accuse me!
UKYO: [upset] Oh, now I'M the pervert?
RYOGA: You're the one who's acting as if we're married! [realizes what he had just said] Look at me, you're turning me into a typical nagging husband who's being burdened by a wife who accuses me unfairly!
UKYO: Now I'm the one who's being a burden to you? [arms her combat spatula] I always wondered why I'm carrying this thing and now I know: to beat you up badly, you ungrateful jackass!
Ukyo tries to hit Ryoga but the latter dodges at every attack but it wasn't until the last attack when Ukyo accidentally tripped to the ground. She couldn't believe this. Her so-called "love of her life" thinks she accuses him and now this. She couldn't take it anymore. She began to cry when Ryoga approached her. He felt guilty since he was the one who started the fight. Ukyo looked at him. Their eyes met.
RYOGA: Ukyo, I'm sorry. I didn't mean-
UKYO: I know, sugar, I just…I think I got carried away by the mayhem that's happening around us. [hugs Ryoga as if she depends him in her whole life] I don't wanna die! I don't wanna die as a virgin!
RYOGA: Well, I heard that if you die as a virgin, you get to go to heaven without being interrogated on your sins.
UKYO: HEY! Whose side are you on? [pauses] I should be the one who should apologize for everything. Is this it? We don't know who we are and yet we might die of being mauled by demons. Just hold me.
RYOGA: A-
UKYO: [hugs him tightly] Hold me please I-
RYOGA: Shhh.
UKYO: What? Why are you-
RYOGA: I hear something. We have t hide!
UKYO: You mean the one that's behind you?
Ryoga turns around and sees a large Heartless behind him. Instead of the usual Ryoga who fights backs, the name "Wimpy Ryoga" suits him as he gasps and then faints for horror after seeing the hulking demon ready to kill them. Ukyo catches the fallen pig boy and with all her might, she carries him by the shoulder and tries runs away from the demon but it manages to catch ahead of them by jumping over them. Ukyo drops him to the ground and arms herself with her combat spatula. Despite it looks like it's heavy, Ukyo is surprised that the spatula is very light to carry. She didn't have time to ponder on how she ended up carrying this as the demon begins to attack her. She immediately ducks its attacks and tries to hit it in the head but the demon grabs the spatula and hits her back which sends her to the walls. Ukyo grasps in pain. She had to wake Ryoga up or else they're finished.
UKYO: Hey Ryoga! Wake up! Some horrible looking demon is going to kill us! [sees the Heartless approaching them slowly] C'mon! WAKE UP! I don't want to die and enter heaven with everyone looking at me saying "her wussy boyfriend fainted before her and both of them got killed". God, that's the afterlife embarrassment worst than death! [Ryoga still doesn't budge] DAMMIT! WAKE UP YOU UNGRATEFUL JACKASS! [she slams her spatula on him and he still doesn't wake up]
But, just as the demon begins to attack them, Mousse pulls a surprise attack on him by stabbing it on the back with a sword. But it didn't kill it. Mousse continues to stab the sword at it many times but it refuses to die. It's not long when Zelgadiss, with his swordsmanship skills, joins in the fight. He, Mousse and Ukyo form a group and continues to finish it off but not without difficulty. The monster tries to sway them with its fists but the three dodges the forthcoming attacks as Zel and Mousse hack and slash the demon while Ukyo continues to hit it back. Then, the demon falls over as the three finally defeats it. To ensure that it doesn't get up again, Zel chops off its head, much to the dismay of Ukyo and Shampoo, who is with Ryoga the whole time.
UKYO: [disgusted] Ewww.
ZELGADISS: I have to. Otherwise, this demon with resurrect and come after us.
UKYO: How do you know?
MOUSSE: It happened to us once.
SHAMPOO: They killed the demons. It was disgusting. [looks at Ryoga] What's with him?
UKYO: He fainted when he saw the demon. [ponders a bit] Do you think he's gay?
ZELGADISS: Did he scream like a girl?
UKYO: No.
ZELGADISS: He's not. Not yet.
Ryoga began to wake up and sees everyone. Ukyo gives him a disappointing glare. Ryoga is ashamed of his actions before.
UKYO: Some hero! To think that you can protect me from that monster!
RYOGA: I'm sorry!
SHAMPOO: This fight bore Shampoo. We kill demons now?
MOUSSE: We? We? You just hid in one corner while Zelgadiss and I had to risk our lives killing them!
SHAMPOO: What Shampoo do? Aside for speaking strange accent, Shampoo don't know how to fight!
ZELGADISS: She's right. She's weaker than us.
SHAMPOO: So you're saying Shampoo is weak? That women are weak?
ZELGADISS: [tries to find a good answer] N-no! What I meant was…er, um, never mind. You know what? We have to find the others and get the hell out of here.
RYOGA: [in a wimpy tone] I'm scared.
Everyone flinched at what Ryoga said. If the real Ryoga learns of what he has just said, he'd cringe and hide of embarrassment.
RYOGA: I don't want to go! [to Ukyo as he whimpers like a little girl] I'm sorry Ukyo! I'm afraid of demons and dark places!
Everyone sweat dropped like hell. Guess the spell revealed Ryoga's wimpy side, only he's way more of a wimp than Sentaro.
UKYO: [groans] Oh my-
MOUSSE: Well then. Ukyo, stay with him.
UKYO: What!? I'm not gonna stay with some coward!
RYOGA: I thought you love me.
Ukyo blushed as Ryoga said those three simple words.
UKYO: I…er…well…
SHAMPOO: Silly girl! Stay with wimpy boy! Protect him!
RYOGA: Who ya calling wimpy?
UKYO: [groans] I can't believe this.
ZELGADISS: We don't have much time. We have to go now!
SHAMPOO: Fine! Very impatient man he is!
Zelgadiss, Shampoo and Mousse are about to leave when Ukyo calls them back.
UKYO: Wait! What if those monsters come back? I can't fight all by myself.
MOUSSE: You'll be fine! You got that big whoop-ass spatula with you.
UKYO: (To better to maim that lying coward bastard) [sighs] FINE! If we get killed, I'm telling!
The three ran off as Ukyo looks at the Ryoga who gives her a big smile but it didn't impress her. She gives him an evil glare as he sulks back. She has to wonder why on earth she would end up with the most cowardly person of the bunch.
************
Naga looks at her surroundings. Right in front of her is a strange painting. She couldn't quite figure it out. But her instructions are quite clear: get rid of the Keybearer and do whatever she wants. What surprise Naga is that there is no treasure of any kind. So, she thinks that whoever said that there is a treasure must have read a lot of those inspirational lessons of the day crap. She looks at the painting at the wall carefully. On the upper left side corner, she can see yellow stars and while on the lower left consists of a grassy crossroad. On the upper right corner, a very dark purplish environment to which Naga can't make of. As for the lower right, is a beach with a eerie setting with a bright full moon low to the horizon. None of them makes sense, she thought. Nothing. So, what was so special about the painting? Her thoughts are interrupted when she senses two very familiar presences.
NAGA: [without turning around] Hello. What do you want?
AMELIA: Whatever you're doing, you have to stop!
NAGA: [turns around to see her little sister] And why should I?
AMELIA: You're not my sister! Whoever you are, get out from her body!
NAGA: Oh I'm hurt! This me! Your sister! Gracia Ul Naga Saillune, the daughter of the Crown Prince Philionel El Di Saillune! Forgive my long introductions, but I really like to show off.
AMELIA: In that case…prepare to fight me, you vile evil creature from the depths of hell!
NAGA: [confused] Eh?
AMELIA: I am Amelia Wil Tesla Saillune, the daughter of the Crown Prince of Saillune and an
Ally of Justice!
NAGA: [rolls eyes] Yes, I've heard about that before.
AMELIA: I'm going to make you suffer for what you did to my sister!
NAGA: Oh yeah? What are you going to do? Since you can't use magic here, you gonna sic me with words that's going break my bones? I REALLY like to see you try, missy!
She's right, Amelia thought. The only thing she has left in beating her is her own famous Hammer of Justice and other techniques. But, she has to be sure that Naga isn't using any magic at all because otherwise, it's going to be a different story. All of the sudden, she couldn't move. She's stuck in the same position when she saw Naga. She tried to move her body parts but to no avail.
NAGA: Sorry if I had to that. I'm not going kill you…yet. I'm waiting for the Bandit Killer and do numerous things on her, oh but not sexually, thank goodness! Expect a lot of screaming and bloodshed, if you don't mind.
GOURRY: Hey! What did you do to her, what-your-name?
Naga takes a look at Gourry, armed with his sword standing at the entrance.
NAGA: [offended] Hey! I have a name you know!
GOURRY: What are you?
NAGA: I think it's time for you to be taught some lessons, blondie!
Naga throws black-flamed projectiles at Gourry, who immediately dodges the attack. He charges at her and swings the sword at perfect aim. Before the blade could even reach her, she immediately vanished into thin air. Naga reappears behind him but to her surprise, Gourry swings the sword at her. She quickly dodged but she wasn't fast enough for her small pieces of hair were cut off. When she learned about that, she's furious. No one would destroy her beauty! Gourry jumps at her and is about to hit her. Naga decides that child's play is over. She summons an ice spell that freezes him in suspended animation.
Just as Naga is about to finish him, she was hit by a beam that sends her twelve feet backwards. She stands up and sees Lina, smirking at her. Naga immediately sense her new power.
LINA: Next time, try hitting someone with your own skill. Or IQ.
NAGA: How did you get so powerful, Inverse?
Before Lina could respond that, Naga grew metallic claws from her nails and throws it at her. Lina raises her hand to stop the claws and mentally puts them down. Naga plans to stage the "mother of all magic battles" and if someone gets killed, then so be it. Akane and Ranma came in a few minutes after Lina and see the two rival sorceresses locking eyes to each other. They saw Amelia and Gourry in a bad state and decide to get them off before they'll be caught in crossfire. Akane helped the youngest Sailune daughter but Ranma's having a hard time dragging the frozen Gourry. It's not long when Zelgadiss, Mousse and Shampoo arrive and sees Lina and Naga facing each other. Zelgadiss helps Ranma drag Gourry to a safe place where almost everyone is. Ranma looks around only to notice two people are missing.
RANMA: Wait, where are Ukyo and Ryoga?
MOUSSE: They…[he doesn't want to reveal that Ryoga is a scardy cat and Ukyo is babysitting him] are all right. They're safe for now.
Naga looks at the crowd and then at Lina again.
NAGA: How nice of you to bring an audience. [waves at Mousse] Mousse darling!
The two sorceresses are circling around each other, each ready to finish this off once and for all.
NAGA: After all these years, you still think you're the greatest. Please, with my new powers, I can defeat you.
LINA: Too bad, I wonder how you can control those powers with your weenie-sized brain of yours.
AKANE: [deadpanned] Great. Now they're playing "my power is greater than your power".
ZELGADISS: [whispers] I knew Naga and Lina have an intense rivalry, according to Naga herself. But this getting out of hand.
RANMA: [whispers] Why do powerful creatures are always immature?
LINA: When I first saw you at the bar, I knew immediately something's wrong with you, not that there's anything wrong with you in the past, but you are because you have mental issues.
Lina's taunting Naga into breaking the latter's self-confidence. It didn't on Naga.
NAGA: [rolls eyes] Oh please, you think your words are going to falter me? You can do better than that.
LINA: Tell me how you got those powers and I'll tell you mine.
NAGA: What is this? Twenty questions?
LINA: Just answer my question.
NAGA: Fine. It's best that I tell you everything before I kill you. Well, it all began with my glorious journeys when I bumped into this gorgeous handsome man. He's oozing with sex appeal that I want to-
LINA: [disgusted] Can we go back to our regular talk?
NAGA: Sorry. Where was I? Oh yes. Now, he and I talked about stuff and he surprised me by telling me that he knows about my intense rivalry against you. He told me that I can become more powerful than you. Hearing this, I immediately agreed to train with him under one condition: that I must kill the one that is called the "Keybearer". First, we made passionate love that is so-
LINA: [grossed out] GEEZ! Can you get anymore disgusting than that?
MOUSSE: How could you?! How could betray me?
NAGA: [with regret] I'm sorry, my Mousse. But that was before I met you.
MOUSSE: You disgust me you-
Before Mousse could even finish his sentence, Shampoo smacked him in the head really hard.
SHAMPOO: [angry] Stupid Mousse! You say you love her?
MOUSSE: Um, that was…mistake. Yeah a…mistake.
Naga decides to ignore the bickering "couple" and focuses back to Lina.
NAGA: The next day, when I woke up, I felt this strange power in me. It was then I realized that I have the new power but he disappeared. So, to fulfill the bargain, I will have to kill the Keybearer. But for a warm-up exercise, I'm going to defeat you. So, I'm going to ask you a question: are you powerful enough to defeat me, Lina Inverse? [laughs]
LINA: We'll see about that.
Lina soon chants something Naga couldn't understood.
NAGA: Don't tell me you're still resorting to the old chant-
Lina catches her in surprise by opening the ground and quickly swallows her before she does something. Naga immediately plans for an escape but couldn't. She's buried on the ground but it didn't last as she breaks free with her fist. She gets up and begins to manifest a hurricane and sends it to her. Lina is sucked into the tornado but she immediately casts it out. She flies until mid-air when she summons a group of meteorites at Naga who dishes out a force field. Despite some extra protection, the impact of the meteorites is weakening the barrier. The field begins to disappear and a meteorite hits her hard. Furious, Naga chants something Lina didn't understand. But what she can understand is that large rocks begin to circle around her and is ready for a protection spell. Lina didn't count on one thing: the ground manages to absorb her feet so that she wouldn't move and her arms are tied by plants that were raised from the ground. The rocks then hit her one by one as Lina takes the pain in a cruel manner. When the last rock has struck her, Lina fell to the ground and Naga laughs out loud. Unknown to Naga, Lina plants her fist to the ground and chants a spell. The ground is begins to rumble beneath the purple-haired sorceress. Then a fountain of flame bursts under her which consumes Naga. Yet, the latter escapes with a few minor burns. Lina decides it's time to use the Laguna Blade to finish this fight. But before she can do that, Naga produces tons of Freeze Arrows, but not to Lina, but at Ranma and the others. The red-haired "bandit killer" quickly produces a force field around them and it works as the arrows bounce off.
LINA: [furious] This is between you and me! You're going to suffer, goldfish poop!
NAGA: Yeah, yeah, whatever you say, breasts less.
As Lina prepares for another spell, Naga places her hands to the ground. The large rocks come across to Lina. The latter casts two beams at the rocks between her. Naga then fires off a laser beam at Lina which sends her five feet back. The impact causes her wince in pain as her legs go wobbly. She yells another spell but this time, she casts a very powerful lightning spell at Naga. It knocks her out but not unconsciously. The two girls take a breather for a moment before they can resume the fight.
NAGA: Not bad. I expected better.
LINA: Same here. Guess you did change. Badly.
Lina chants another spell. Twelve magical knives appeared out of nowhere and begin to form a circle in front of her. The knives stop moving and head towards at Naga. Naga blocks the incoming mystical weapons. This was a diversion. Lina casts a petrifying spell and Naga immediately turns into stone. Lina sat on the ground. Something is wrong. She knows it. The others look at Lina. It's over right? But before they could answer that, the statue begins to shatter as Naga breaks out. It was then that for the first time in their fight, Lina looks worried. She still has a few tricks left but Naga may have more. Naga chants something and a large mystic sphere swallows Lina. She can't get out no matter on hard she tries. Glowing white light emanates from Naga's arms and it produces a small white ball. She tosses it at the sphere and within a few seconds, the sphere explodes. Lina staggers back and winces from the pain. She leans on the walls. She's not yet ready to give up. Naga approaches her with a smirk on her face. But before she utters a word, she suddenly floats above the air. She then is sent to the roof which causes her pain and is dropped to the ground very hard. Just as she regains her composure she is sent to the walls crashing down. Unknown to her, Lina is moving her around with her mind. She pins Naga to the wall and repeated slams her to the ground. This is it, Lina thought. Now that she has the upper hand, she can defeat her with the Gigas Slave. Lina regains her composure and concentrates and looks straight ahead of the now weakened-Naga. She's about to vocally chant the spell when all she could say is…none. She continues to chant but, none. She tried shouting but nothing came out.
*********
UKYO: Okay, maybe I've been a little exaggerating about you being a coward. On one hand, you're a sweet guy and… [frustrated] oh come on, Ryoga! Please talk to me!
Ukyo's has been trying to convince Ryoga, who is looking away from her, that's okay on his cowardice. Ryoga hasn't been talking to her ever since he woke up. The terms "embarrassment" and "shame" have filled his soul. He knew he's not the "man among men". He thinks that in Ukyo's point of view, he's not good enough for her. Unknown to him, Ukyo does think that he's a cowardly schmuck.
UKYO: Of course, I do like you. But…well, when you did that…um, that cowardly thing, I've been having these second thoughts. Oh, nothing bad, if you want to know. I'm just being judgmental and-
RYOGA: Ukyo.
UKYO: I'm just concerned about your well-being, that's all. If you-
RYOGA: UKYO!
UKYO: Huh? Oh, Ryoga. What-
Ryoga stands up and looks at Ukyo.
RYOGA: [stutters] I…I'm sorry. Sorry for being a coward. Sorry for being a sissy boy. Sorry for-
UKYO: [interrupts Ryoga] Okay. I think you got that covered very well.
RYOGA: I heard those while I was unconscious. You babbled a lot. As in A LOT.
UKYO: Can you forgive a girl for babbling?
RYOGA: [looks around] Where are the others?
UKYO: Fighting. I've been assigned to baby sit you in the mean time.
RYOGA: [embarrassed] Oh.
Both of them stopped talking. The tension between them is tight. Right now, Ryoga doesn't know what to do to make the situation better while Ukyo pretty scared of their situation. A light bulb appears in Ryoga's mind. He approaches a visibly shaken Ukyo. It may not be easy, but it's worth it.
RYOGA: Um, Ukyo?
UKYO: Ryoga?
RYOGA: [takes a few breaths] Ukyo, [holds her hand] let's make love.
UKYO: [widens her eyes with surprise] WHAT?!
RYOGA: I said let's make love. You wanted this, right?
UKYO: I don't know…
RYOGA: You're the one who said that you didn't want to die a virgin.
UKYO: Since when the hell did you become Mr. "Come-On-Let's-Do-It"? And why are you interested in this? I think you're coming on to me way too strong.
RYOGA: Oh please, you're the one who wants to do it. Besides, think of this as a way of complying your wish in a very absurd manner.
UKYO: It's not that. I was exaggerating because I have a panic attack. You know how these things go. You start saying stuff in times of uncertainty.
RYOGA: So, you're taking it back? [Ryoga is disappointed]
UKYO: You know what? [she approaches him and then hugs him] No. Because I would be too crazy not to do it.
RYOGA: A-are you sure? We don't have any protect-
UKYO: It's okay. I think we can handle it.
RYOGA: Okay. Okay.
Ryoga and Ukyo began to kiss. It's their first. The way how they kiss would be described as wonderful and tenderly. It's as if they tasted the sweetness in them. Then, both of them lied down to the ground with Ukyo on the bottom. Ryoga kissed her neck which caused her to moan lightly. The union between two "lovers" would not last long…
*********
NAGA: Don't lie to me, Inverse. I'm way better than you.
Naga is now strangling Lina very tightly with one hand. The former lifts her up with slight ease. Lina tries to shout but couldn't because she couldn't speak.
NAGA: Before I forget, that mute spell was quite very useful. For starters, I wouldn't have to listen to your goddamn irritating voice and that's a good thing.
Lina is pissed and tries to hit her but all her efforts are useless.
NAGA: And now, for the grand finale, I will-
Naga is interrupted by a blow in her head. It's Ranma holding a rock. Naga looks at her and proceeds to knock her on her face with a right fist. Then, there are more to come to attack the sorceress. At this point, Naga drops Lina to the ground and dodges Gourry's sword. She sidesteps the second attack and punches Gourry in the stomach. Naga quickly kicks Akane in the face but Shampoo hits her in the face with her fist. Shampoo quickly backs away with her fist now in pain due to her inexperience at hitting someone aside from Mousse. Zelgadiss throws his sword at Naga's direction. The latter manages to catch the sword and throws it back at the former. Zelgadiss dodges at the incoming projectile and charges at her with a dagger. Naga grabs Shampoo by the hair and throws her at Zelgadiss which hits him. Mousse miraculous unleashes a chain rope and ties her up completely. He tightens it completely in order to trap her. But, Naga uses her full supernatural physical strength to break the chains and quickly throws him to the sides.
NAGA: [furious] You guys are pathetic!
Akane catches her off-guard by pulling her hair very hard. Naga yelps out a scream and grabs Akane's hair. The hair pulling war didn't last long as Ranma strangles her in the neck. The attack causes Naga to turn her eyes into white and telekinetically lifts the two upward and slams them to the ground. Gourry swings his sword to her neck but much to his shock and disappointment, the blade is broken due to her probable hard body. Naga smirks and hits him in the face. He flies back to the side and his back slams the wall. Just as Naga approaches Shampoo and Gourry, who are on the ground, she is intercept in the front by Amelia.
NAGA: Sweetie, big sis orders to step aside and let her finish the job.
AMELIA: No I won't! As a Sailune, it's my duty to stop the evildoers for doing injustices!
NAGA: [rolls eyes as she groans] Oh crud, that old speech. I think it's time you should find a new propaganda. You know, the one that doesn't really suck.
AMELIA: Then, I have no choice but to defeat you!
NAGA: I won't hurt you not just because you're my sister.
AMELIA: You're just bluffing!
NAGA: So what if I am? What are you going to do with me? Mallet me to death? Sweetie, I'm invincible! I can take on the gods with such ease!
AMELIA: Power corrupts! Gracia, please enough of this madness! Stop!
NAGA: Stay out of my way. I am powerful enough to destroy all things!
LINA: But I am smart enough to destroy you.
Right before Naga could figure out who said that, Lina summons plants, vines and roots to wrap her. Lina stands up and her mind, although she can still cast spells, is a little bit fuzzy due to her fight so she might not chant the correct spells. She chants a fireball but the end result is an iceball. Naga casts herself with a force field and pours some acid on the plants, vines and roots that releases her. Lina throws a magical crescent slash projectile and it knocks Naga off to the ground for about ten feet behind. Ranma gets up and sees the ongoing battle between the two rival sorceresses. Lina charges at Naga with full force. Naga slams her fist to the ground and it causes a ripple effect towards Lina. Due to its impact, Lina is thrown off to the ground. Naga gets up and runs to her and beats her up with her fists. Naga then lifts Lina again upward by the neck. Desperate for an escape, Lina unconsciously chants a spell without any knowledge of what it is about. But, it then it has an astounding effect on Ranma and her friends. They felt something familiar and to their sudden joy…
NAGA: I could have just kill you before, but now I will.
Naga didn't notice Ranma and the others since she's too focused on killing Lina. Lina, for her part, is now formulating a plan to destroy Naga. Basically, it's all about planning how to kill your rival.
NAGA: [smirks] Any last words, dear Lina Inverse? [laughs out, which made Lina shudder] So, are they any?
RANMA: Eat this.
Naga turns around as she sees Ranma leaping and executes a spinning roundhouse to her face. Naga didn't expect this and because of that surprise, she unintentionally lets go of Lina. With her new Keyblade reappearing at her hand, Ranma jumps over Naga and slashes her back. Naga barely manages to escape the attack.
RANMA: Know what? I know someone back in my world with the same laugh that can wake up the dead.
NAGA: [defiant] You dare to taunt me?
RANMA: Is that a big duh?
Akane, Shampoo and Mousse regained their memories as well. They got up and ran to Ranma's side. But on the other hand…
*********
Ryoga and Ukyo came to a full stop of their make out session when they regained their true memories. It took a few seconds for Ryoga to realize what is going on. But for Ukyo, it took shorter to make out the events that lead them to what they are currently doing. Depending on one's view, she's not extremely happy about this. Ryoga realized the error of his "actions" and quickly gets up from her and backs a little. Ukyo stands up and holds her spatula with the intention to kill him. Ryoga quickly tries to formulate an excuse to escape from the wrath of "Spatula-sama".
RYOGA: [nervous] Uh…Ukyo…um, listen! There's an explanation for everything!
UKYO: Yeah, you're a pervert.
RYOGA: ME? What about you? You're the one who wanted to pop your own cherry!
Ryoga regrets his last sentence. This didn't bode Ukyo very well as she is ready to hit Ryoga.
RYOGA: Hey! Will ya listen to me!? It was probably the spell-
UKYO: Know what? I think I'm going have to kill you for taking advantage of me, you honorless pig! [Ryoga cringes at the last word]
Ukyo moves forward at him while he moves back. The fury can be easily read from her face. One thing does come into her mind: what they hell were they doing and what would Ranma think. Okay, make that two.
What Ryoga didn't know is that there is a small pond behind him. He steps back a little until he falls off to the pond and splashes over. What happens next is a quick surprise to Ukyo. Ryoga, now P-Chan, rises from the pond and swims to the ground. Ukyo picks him up and Ryoga squeals with horror with the thought of what Ukyo will do to him.
UKYO: [stunned] Y-you're…P-Chan? [pauses] No shit.
*********
Naga faces at the four warriors. Ranma with her Keyblade, Mousse with his hidden weapons and Shampoo and Akane in their fighting positions. Since they just regained their memory, they have a lot to make-up for. Namely, beat up the bad guy. This bodes well for Shampoo.
SHAMPOO: Scary woman share same horrible laugh with crazy girl? Why Shampoo no surprise?
NAGA: Geez, with your memory back, you're still a stuck-up bitch.
MOUSSE: Look who's talking.
NAGA: My dear Moussie has turned against me! The horror!
MOUSSE: I AM NOT your Moussie! [ponders for a bit] Am I? [Ranma, Shampoo and Akane rolls their eyes]
NAGA: [to Ranma] So, you're the Keybearer Fahnir has been talking about.
RANMA: Who's Fahnir?
NAGA: The one who gave me my powers.
RANMA: In other words, the jackass who made you an overrated psycho witch.
NAGA: Watch your mouth little girl. Guess punning is one of the qualities of a Keybearer.
AKANE: Is Fahnir one of the Heartless?
NAGA: [shrugs] I don't know.
Unknown to them, Naga plans to kill them with a spell. A dark mist slowly appears in her hands. A few more talks and then she'll eliminate them. Yeah talk, she thought, and soon I'll have your tongues. As a martial artist, Ranma quickly notices on what Naga is doing. He carefully aims the Keyblade at her at a throwing distance.
RANMA: People, back out now.
AKANE: Ranma? What's-
NAGA: PREPARE TO DIE!
A large dark magical ball appears in her hands and is about to throw it at them when Ranma quickly raises the Keyblade and throws it directly at her heart. The blade penetrates her heart internally and her body externally. Naga screams with pain and tries to remove the Keyblade but couldn't. Naga drops on her knees and then, a large black Darkside appears from her body. Ranma quickly removes the Keyblade from Naga and throws it at the center of the Darkside's body since she knows its weakness courtesy of fighting it. The Darkside then is killed and disappears. The Keyblade repappears at Ranma's hand. Amelia runs over to Naga and look for any wounds. There aren't any so she checks her vital signs.
AKANE: I think you killed her.
RANMA: I didn't to do it intentionally. I had no choice!
AMELIA: It's okay. She's miraculously alive, despite the wounds.
Lina and then Gourry and Zelgadiss get up and looks at them.
LINA: Is anyone okay?
AKANE: Yeah.
Ranma isn't listening to the ongoing conversation. He just looks up at the paintings. One of them is very familiar while the rest are brand new to him. But nevertheless, the paintings hold a symbolical meaning, whatever that is. The Keyblade begins to glow just like what it did in the previous world. Sensing what's going on, Ranma raises the blade and the Keyhole magically appeared at the center of the paintings. The light from the blade shoots toward the Keyhole and it magically seals it. The Keyhole then disappears again.
ZELGADISS: [stunned] What the hell-
RANMA: I'm the Keybearer. We came from another world.
GOURRY: So, you're like a superhero?
RANMA: [smirks] I am a hero!
AKANE: [mutters] On less occasional incidents.
RANMA: [looks at her sharply] What was that, tomboy?
LINA: Wait, wait. Is Naga okay?
AMELIA: She's fine, but unconscious.
LINA: Better than dead is fine with me.
AMELIA: I'm going to bring her back home and maybe we can work out on a few issues.
AKANE: That's great!
RANMA: [looks around] Wait. Where're Ucchan and Ryoga?
Shampoo, Mousse, Gourry and Zegadiss have forgotten the other two, not that Shampoo really cared. By now, those two might be doing something…amusing.
MOUSSE: I think I left them somewhere. I better go get them then. [he runs off to find them]
AKANE: Why were they left behind?
SHAMPOO: [shrugs] Trust me, you don't want to know.
*********
Mousse went back to the spot where they left Ukyo and Ryoga behind. He chuckled himself because he recalled that they were so lovey-dovey back then and now that their memories have returned, he's curious to know what has happened to them. He finally spots them and to his surprise, he sees Ukyo holding a wet but quiet P-Chan. Ukyo looks at the blind boy.
UKYO: Hello Mousse.
MOUSSE: Guess it's safe to say we're all back to normal.
UKYO: (Wanna bet?) How long have you known Ryoga is P-Chan?
MOUSSE: You didn't know?
UKYO: Until know! Porky Pig here hid a secret from Akane. Now I know why Ranchan is always angry whenever he sees Akane cuddling bacon boy here.
MOUSSE: Jealous?
UKYO: [laughs out loud] Why am I jealous? Look, if Akane finds out about this, I staying away from the crime scene far, far away. [gives a nervous Ryoga a death glare] Don't you dare involve me into your mess. Also, don't you dare tell everyone what had just happened! Understand? [Ryoga could only nod]
MOUSSE: What are you talking about?
UKYO: Um…nothing! Okay? Just nothing. Now, where's Ranchan?
*********
Once again, Ranma and Akane are engaged into their regular argument. Only this time, it's another topic that doesn't involve fiancées and cooking.
RANMA: Because of your carelessness, we almost got killed because we lost our memories!
AKANE: Well I'm sorry I made a HUGE mistake but we falling from the sky and I had to do something!
RANMA: Stupid tomboy! You should have read the book carefully! You should know what you're doing!
AKANE: I already said I'm sorry, perverted pea brain!
RANMA: You're not good at martial arts and cooking and already you failed at another subject. Isn't there anything you're good at?
This time, Akane is beyond angry.
AKANE: [unleashes her Mallet of Doom] Take this you ungrateful jerk!
The mallet hits Ranma in the head. Shampoo sighs with annoyance. There isn't a single day without Akane hitting Ranma with her mallet. This is getting tiresome for her. She might as well be charged of reckless murder if she really kills Ranma, she thought. Then, she spots Mousse, Ukyo and Ryoga, now human, coming towards them.
UKYO: Let me guess Ranchan pissed you off?
AKANE: Isn't that obvious? [changes the topic] What were you and Ryoga doing back there?
UKYO/RYOGA: Nothing!
SHAMPOO: Let's go.
MOUSSE: Yeah, we better go now.
Ryoga picks up an unconscious Ranma on his shoulder.
ZELGADISS: Wait, you're going?
MOUSSE: Yeah. We have other worlds to save?
AMELIA: Darn, I was hoping I could invite all of you for a celebration.
RYOGA: Thanks for the offer.
LINA: So, when will we see you guys again?
AKANE: Honestly, we don't know. Maybe someday.
Mousse casts the teleportation spell and they Nerima gang disappears. Gourry carries Naga as they troop out of the cave. Lina's stomach begins to growl.
LINA: I'm hungry. Let's get something to eat.
*********
Fahnir is pissed. He had watched the entire incident and the results aren't what he had expected. As soon as Lina and the others disappear, he goes to the scene and thinks of a way to catch up on them. But before he can teleport, he hears his cellphone ringing on his shoulder. He grumbles as he picks it up. He knows it's him and he wants news.
FAHNIR: (sighs) Hello.
???: Status report.
FAHNIR: So far none. They got some help from other people. All I can say is that we're dealing with a very dangerous bunch. I'm going after them. I'm sorry, my lord.
???: It's okay. I expected that to happened.
Fahnir smiles at this. He finds working with him has been a pleasure.
???: Fahnir, we're going to abort the mission for a while.
FAHNIR: [on the phone] WHAT!?
???: We're going to-
FAHNIR: Don't do this on me! If you think I traveled around different worlds just to follow and kill them, you had another fucking thing coming!
???: I have my reasons.
FAHNIR: WHY? WHY? SHIT! SHIT!
???: Will you calm down and listen to me? [Fahnir reluctantly listens] I know we got a lot of problems going on and among them is the Keybearer, Keywielder, Keyblade Master or any name that comes close. But remember, as a member of the Council, we don't use dirty methods in claiming our goals for that will lower us down. We are respected killers across all worlds. Of course, that doesn't mean we won't resort in using them in such cases secretly. What I am about to tell you is this. I want you, Shiri and the others to come back here so we can have an emergency meeting. I will tell you everything once everyone is there. As for the Keybearer and his groupies, let's just say there have a lot of problems coming to them and I promise you, they will suffer like they have never suffered before. I have my sources and I know where they will head next. Is this understood?
FAHNIR: Yes, sir.
???: Okay then. Come home safely. We got some glazed doughnuts ready for you to gobble down. [closes the phone]
Fahnir closes his phone and sighs about this. But on the bright side, there are always doughnuts ready for him to eat. He teleports back to his headquarters. As they mysterious man puts his phone down, a sea green haired woman suddenly wakes up from the noise. She's visibly naked. Then again, so is the mysterious man.
WOMAN: What was that?
???: Some business. They will come here about 47 hours from now. I want you to be ready.
WOMAN: Is that all? Are you leaving?
???: I'm about to. But now you're awake.
WOMAN: You're leaving me behind. How shameful.
???: Is that so? Well then, how can I make it up for you?
WOMAN: More. Give me more.
???: My pleasure.
*********
UP NEXT: Akane finds out Ryoga is P-Chan. Things are going to get ugly.
*********
AUTHOR'S NOTES:
1. Sorry for the long delay. I have good reasons, both academic and personal reasons. Also, forgive me for the poor writing in this chapter because I really wanted to finish this arc once and for all.
2. To psycho_king: if you're reading this, thank you for the suggestions.
3. For those who're wondering why changed the rating into R is because expect a lot of violence, language and some sexual situations. As for the adding of "Volume 2" in the title, it's more of a continuation of the Kingdom Hearts canon.
4. The first and last scenes of this chapter are homage to "Kill Bill Vol. 1" where The Bride and Vernita fight and talk and where Bill talks to Elle. The next story arc will definitely be paying homage to "Kill Bill Vol. 1" because I'm a big fan of the film and with the release of "Vol. 2" on Friday as of this writing. The next world will be an original one (don't expect appearances of Kill Bill characters since I have no intention of using them). Heck, Quentin Tarantino and other film directors borrowed scenes from other films and other media forms.
5. I finally read the famous/infamous "The Bitter End" and I've thought about Akane as a person. Is she a sweet yet misunderstood person or just plain bitchy?
