RIKU: [horrified] Oh God...no. We were too damn late.
Riku stood over the corpse of Aya Mikage. The stab wound was located directly at her heart. Blood has already spread on the floor.
RIKU: [mumbles] Fuck...fuck...
TARO: Who the hell is she?
RIKU: One of the potentials. Someone's after them and before you know it, kill them. They are doing it at all costs.
TARO: Not being an ass but, is this why you recruited me? Protecting little tykes against the nefarious big bads who are after them?
RIKU: Look, kiddo. We made a deal. You help me. I help you. You help me save the world and I'll help you change your name.
YUI: That's your deal? My God, a low class businessman can make better deals than that. What? No condition? Assurances? [pauses] Insurances?
Yui looked at the 2 men from above. She's currently looking at the corpse by crouching on the ground. She looks at Riku.
YUI: And for the moment I thought you were his sugar daddy. [glances at Taro]
TARO: One more poke at me and I'll make sure-
YUI: Make sure you'll what? Hit me? I thought you were better than that P.
Taro twitches his eye as he grips his fist. He has learned the hard way that not all women are graceful, sweet and caring. There are also certain women whom he had hated like Rouge and Ranma, since he considers the latter as a transvestite. He's going to add Yui to the list. Yui doesn't notice his expression as she continues to investigate the body.
YUI: Okay. I think a group could deal with this damage. Look at her arms. It's been spread and they were probably holding her.
RIKU: She was struggling alright.
TARO: Any idea who?
RIKU: I have. But I have to pick one out of three.
TARO: I'm surprised they didn't rape her.
Yui is mortified by Taro's statement.
YUI: [shocked] God, are you daft?
TARO: What? I wasn't making fun at her! I was just making a big thought.
YUI: Okay, you know what? Maybe you have these sick fantasies you really want to do like doing it to a dead body. And mind you, you're going to have incurable diseases like syphilis.
TARO: Me? Bollocks! What about you? You acted like a bitch since we met! Believe it or not, you have this amazing ability to piss people off.
YUI: This from the guy who's angry at the whole world because of his crappy name.
RIKU: [sigh] Children, just shut up or you'll join the corpse in the afterlife.
Their "conversation" is interrupted by a strange phone ring. Taro and Yui looked around to check where the noise is coming from. But to their surprise, Riku got his cellphone out of nowhere. Seems today you can communicate with a cellphone everywhere, even in other worlds. Riku looks intently at text message with a stunned look. This completely baffles the red-head more. Despite the big, obvious fact that he is blindfolded, he can still see everything. Earlier, she formulated a theory that there was power in his eyes and the reason for the blindfold is that the power is too much for him to handle. Another theory is that he probably wants to score some chicks, which is highly unlikely and if likely, ridiculous.
"Whoa", said a stunned Taro. In his life, he has encountered weird personalities such as that certain fem-boy. Yui notices his shock and has to agree with him. "Your first time encountering the weird", Yui asked him in an amusing manner.
"Nah. It's just that...well..."
"Beyond your unholy expectations?"
Riku puts the phone down and notices the two teens. He has to admit that he has a thing for surprising people.
"What was that?" asked Yui.
"Emergency big time", Riku said in a strict, emotionless tone. They knew something is up. "We have to leave right now. Ignore the body. Let the police handle this. Besides, we're going to another world."
Taro raised his eyebrow with skepticism. "Oh really, where? The land of the bunnies?" At hearing the word "bunnies", Yui quickly jerks her head up. If one can look into her face expression, all signs point to fear.
"No. But we went to this world where creatures called Pokemon nearly massacred me and my friends a long time ago."
"Get out. What the hell did you do?"
"Nah. But you know what the worst part is? People there believed that our intentions were to harm them."
Yui decides to cut the slack. "Okay, what world and what was that message from your phone?", Yui asked to Riku.
"Infinity City", Riku responded.
A tall, spiky red haired man looks at the man lying unconscious on the ground. He has to admit that the latter gave him quite the chase, from one world to another while trading physical attacks and magic. In the end, the red-haired man stood out as the victor. He got some help from 2 other cloaked figures. It all started when his opponent was caught spying at his meeting with some very important people. When he recognized the man, he smirked at this and decides to give him the beating of his life. Of course, as life follows Murphy's Law, things don't go as the way it should. The man defeated two of the red-haired man's comrades and gave an excellent fight. It took them two different worlds to finish this duel. He looked at his comrades to confirm their next plan of action. At the moment, they are in a deserted airport warehouse waiting for someone to come. He grinned at this. This time, he would kill the one who will rescue his old colleague. The prisoner is a long haired brunette with a scar on his face.
When Riku, Taro and Yui arrived at Infinity City through teleportation, they quickly began to find a car. For Taro, this is simply a waste of time. Then again, he thinks this whole thing is a waste of time. He didn't really believe at Riku or Kiev or whatever his name was. The reason he joined him is because of the name change. Taro knew something is up and knows that their deal will falter and he will go back chasing Happosai to change his name. He looks at Yui and thinks of her as "annoying" but a very skilled kunoichi, who at the moment is looking for a car to break in. Unlike Akane, Yui was tactless, snooty and yet tough. She reminded him of the fem-boy, except that she is probably most sincere and intelligent than he is. Had she met Ranma and Akane, she'd clash with them. During their trip, Yui ranted to him and Riku about her ex-boyfriend cheating with another guy. Then, an idea came into his mind: didn't Yui realize that she was probably the one who made her ex-boyfriend gay? And how did she know his "real" name?
The trio walked around to see a white car that is parked at the Honky Tony Café. Based on the car itself, it looks good enough to steal it.
YUI: [points at the white car] How about that?
RIKU: Anything, just steal it and we leave right now.
TARO: That old piece of junk? Are you serious?
YUI: Vintage can be very priceless. Think of it this way, people value old stuff. The best thing to do of course is to sell them.
TARO: I never understand why they can be so damn expensive.
YUI: Almost all vintage items are very rare.
RIKU: [anxious] Can we cut the business side and move on?
YUI: Jeez, just hold on for a moment. [looks around] Guess the coast is clear.
Yui approaches the car and begins to unlock the door. She sits on the driver's sit and starts to rev up the engine by fixing the wires. But just as she's about to start the car, she hears two knocks from the window of the front seat. She nervously turns to see a spiky brunette with small purple glasses and a blond guy.
BAN: Why hello, miss. How can we be of service?
GINJI: Hey, Ban-chan, who is she?
Yui tries to find a good answer.
YUI: [in a sweet and cute tone] Well, you see mister...um, I'm in a tight fit. You see I need a car 'coz I have to go somewhere very important.
GINJI: Why don't you take a taxi?
YUI: I couldn't find one.
BAN: [points at Yui's left side] Wanna bet?
Yui looks at her left to see couple of taxi cabs parked. She twitches her eye with surprise and disappointment.
YUI: [in a pleading tone] Look, I need this car. It's very important that I must have it. It's an emergency. There is danger and without me, people will piss their pants off.
BAN: [surprised] Danger? Well, then. Allow us to help you then.
GINJI: [proudly] Yep, that's right. We're The Getbackers!
YUI: That's nice, but I don't need your help. I'm perfectly fine.
BAN: From what I can tell, you're lying.
YUI: Really?
BAN: I'm not fooled by your looks. Are you a client of ours?
GINJI: Funny, why didn't Hevn-san told us about this Ban-chan? We could use some money.
YUI: You're unemployed?
GINJI: [smiles] It's not that. Hevn-san gives us clients that needed our help. We retrieve items, give it back to them and we get the money! That's why we're called the Getbackers! Get it? [laughs] We "get-back" things. Get it? [Ban hits him in the head] Ow! Ban-chan!
BAN: [angry] Shut up Ginji! Your jokes are even lamer than Haruki's!
YUI: But you're still unemployed right?
BAN: Hey! That's not true!
YUI: Then why don't you advertise yourselves? It'll help.
GINJI: She's right Ban-chan!
YUI: Now can I go?
Riku and Taro watched the exchange between both parties. Impatience has taken over Riku.
TARO: For a ninja, she sucks.
RIKU: I wouldn't say that. She's a great spy as well. In that situation she's facing at the moment, she would knock unconscious those guys. Guess she's not in the mood.
TARO: Are you nuts? Would you rather listen to her babbling how her relationships fail? And how do you know her exactly?
RIKU: On a train in that communist country. What was it called?
TARO: Russsia?
RIKU: Yeah. I think it was a few months ago. And from her parents as well. [looks at Yui who is arguing Ban while a embarrassed Ginji watches over] That's it. We're leaving. Call Yui.
TARO: What about...wait, maybe I can-
RIKU: Don't use your curse.
TARO: [annoyed] Why?
RIKU: You're in another world. Not everyone is aware of the Jusenkyo curses. If you transform, many will think that you're a freak.
TARO: Will you stop associating me with that word?
RIKU: An old, wise yet vicious master once told me that if you react to certain things like teasing, you will get beaten up by teases.
TARO: [confused] Huh?
RIKU: Never mind. My master has a thing for babbling (and masochism). Question: can you jump from building to building?
TARO: Can I? I'm good at it. [then a thought hits him] We're going to do that?
Riku nods. Taro approaches Yui, who then gives the duo some business tips, both legal and illegal.
GINJI: B-but we're not into blackmailing!
YUI: I'm just saying that blackmail some yakuza clans. The trick is to find one weak link in terms of dishonoring his or her group. Another is to pull it off correctly.
BAN: As much as your brilliant ideas would work, we wouldn't resort to that low.
YUI: Ahh. Following the good, noble citizen, I see.
BAN: But we're not that innocent.
YUI: Really?
BAN: And my gut tells me you're a magnet for bad boys.
YUI: And what makes you think you're a bad boy? I've met a lot of wannabe bad boys. Freaking posers.
Although he can be a bit on the naïve side, Ginji can tell that Ban is flirting on their would-be car-napper. Ginji looks at his right to see Taro approaching them. He can tell that the man has an annoyed look, but doesn't know why. Taro looks at Yui and thinks that she's nuts.
TARO: Oi, bitch! We have to go NOW!
YUI: What?
TARO: Blindfold boy told me that you're wasting time with them. We have to hurry!
BAN: [incredulously looks at Taro] Who are you?
YUI: He's with me.
GINJI: Your partner in crime?
YUI: Not exactly.
Yui gets out of the car and walks back to Taro with a hateful look at him. When someone calls her bitch is demeaning and hurtful but knowing that Taro has shitty name, she'll let this slide for now. Ban and Ginji looked at the duo walking away from them. Yui didn't look back at them but she gives them a goodbye.
YUI: Thanks for the chit-chat!
BAN: Anytime!
GINJI: Hey, Ban-chan, now what?
BAN: [looks at Ginji] Dunno. But since we've got no clients as of the moment...
GINJI: You're thinking of following her?
BAN: Why not? She's hot. She's fun to talk to, although she's a little bit strange. Then again, Hevn and Himiko have their own weirdness.
GINJI: Except you don't know her name, Ban-chan.
BAN: DAMN! You're right!
GINJI: Plus, she thinks you're a poser.
BAN: [annoyed] Hey she didn't say that!
GINJI: [smiles] Just kidding Ban-chan! She's cute too.
The two stopped talking for the moment to gather their thoughts.
GINJI: So...
BAN: We'll follow her or find her...wherever the hell she went.
The trio decided the best way to reach their destination is through jumping from building to building. It wasn't easy though, for they have to keep a very low profile. In this activity, Riku did it as if it was a piece of cake. Same thing goes to Yui, who jumped into the telephone pole at one point. Taro had an early problem but managed to fix it. Among the three, Yui is the fastest but decides to let Riku lead along the way.
RIKU: I'm going have to be frank with you kids. The message I received earlier was from an old comrade of mine, Leon. He actually sent 2 messages. One is a request of help. The other is blocked by a firewall, so Leon is the only one who knows to decode it.
TARO: Must be very big.
RIKU: It is. He volunteered to spy our enemies but was caught.
YUI: A big bad conference?
RIKU: Those who are evil bastards and possibly bitches from their respective worlds.
YUI: Nasty.
RIKU: The power of the Heartless is stronger than you think.
TARO: Then why the crappy name to begin with?
RIKU: [ignores Taro's complaint] They want power, and power they get. But every gift has a downside. If one accepts the power of the Heartless, he or she will lose control of his identity and memories and become the darker person that resides from the darker side of his heart.
YUI: Power corrupts people. Hallmark quote of the day. P, that should be your new mantra.
TARO: [growls] Shut it, cunt.
RIKU: But it depends on the person. So, there's no way telling that they'll able to control it, but I predict that success will be 50%.
TARO: You know a lot about that stuff.
The trio stopped jumping and looked around the place while standing at the top of a building.
RIKU: We're not far. Only a couple of blocks and-
Out of nowhere, a projectile is thrown towards Riku's direction. He manages to catch it with one hand, much to the surprise of the two teens. He recognized the weapon and the mode of attack. Riku's head snapped upward at the building three stories higher than the building they're standing. The one who called Riku smirked at the blindfolded man. To him, he hasn't changed a lot since he first met him and his two friends years ago.
???: Hello, Kiev. It's been a while.
RIKU: [in a bored tone] Hello Axel.
AXEL: Mind giving me my weapon back?
RIKU: Why should I? I like it so much that I could steal it from you.
AXEL: Don't try on me.
RIKU: And what brings you to my business, Brother Axel?
TARO: [to Riku] Who the hell is he?
AXEL: You and your buddy have disrupted the balance. We're here to apprehend you and ask you questions about the current location of [BLEEP].
RIKU: To tell you the truth, I haven't seen [BLEEP] for a while.
AXEL: Well then, I'll just ask you some de-lovely questions.
YUI: [to Riku] What the hell is he talking about?
RIKU: As you know, the current Key Bearer is doing his rounds now. Why go to me if you can seek the info you need on him?
AXEL: You know what? We're here because we want to okay?
RIKU: We?
Two men appeared at Axel's side, both also wearing the same cloaks Axel wore. On Axel's left side is a long, blue haired man with piercing red eyes. He's holding a huge battle axe. While the other one is a blond man with a sword. They are the same height as Axel's.
RIKU: [to the blond] Maki. [to the blue haired man] Gear.
MAKI: Been a while, Kiev. Right before you left, you said that you went to get the milk.
RIKU: And you take that face value? Why I am not surprised?
GEAR: Dammit, Kiev! Is this it? You've been away for so long that you forgot to buy the milk?
TARO: [whispers to Yui] What the hell are these morons talking about?
YUI: [mutters] Seems Dumb and Dumber do exist in other, strange worlds.
AXEL: [to Maki and Gear] What the hell are you talking about?
MAKI: The milk?
RIKU: [to Taro and Yui] Believe it or not, kiddos. They're not as dumb as you think.
YUI: So the whole milk issue is just a nonsense issue?
RIKU: Not exactly. The three of them are among the Unknowns. The most deadly warriors and at the same time has intelligence of a monk.
YUI: So they're holier than us?
RIKU: In a sick, twisted manner.
YUI: Then, in that case, it's safe to assume that they and the Aum Shinrikyo share the same type of weirdness.
TARO: The Aum Shinrikyo? I've heard of them from my mom.
RIKU: Who are they?
YUI: A religious cult that released poison gas on the subways in our world years ago. A few people died and many were injured.
TARO: I heard the leader's a psycho.
YUI: Not exactly. Psycho, yes, but not in a sense that he belongs to the mental hospital. Okay, maybe he does, but with a leader with followers he's got to have something.
TARO: [pauses] Maybe I should start my own cult.
YUI: I'm not gonna go there.
RIKU: Wait, I remember! The Aum Shinrikyo? They are a religious cult but they were manipulated!
YUI: By the leader?
RIKU: Pokemon.
YUI: Get out.
RIKU: I heard this story once. There's this Pokemon by the name of Mewtwo who manipulated a cult into following his orders. But, things started to get out of control once Mewtwo become corrupted. I always knew they were evil.
TARO: And the coincidence is? [thinks for a few moments] I think I got it. So, are these Pokemon creatures evil and vicious?
RIKU: On the outside, they're cute as teddy bears. In the inside, they're monsters. But, they're nothing compared to Digimons.
TARO: What, pray tell, are the Digimons?
RIKU: Like Pokemons but less cute. My friend said the otherwise. That led into a heated debate. Digimons have a certain disadvantages.
AXEL: [infuriated] (That's not true! Pokemons also have disadvantages! Wait a sec! Why the hell am I talking about this?)
Riku has a feeling that Taro will find these Pokemons and turn it into his followers. Even though he only met him for a few days, weeks or months whichever, he can tell that he has superiority complex. But that's nothing compared to Ranma and the rest, if he has met them at all.
YUI: (Just like Chucky. Cute, yet vicious. Like...like...)
Axel, Maki and Gear looked at them with disbelief. They're talking about Pokemons? Axel doesn't have the patience of a saint. He knows Kiev would distract them from doing their duties. However, it's time for him to reveal his trump card.
AXEL: Oi, Kiev! Did you remember why you're here?
RIKU: [smirks] You tell me.
AXEL: [grins] Very well.
Axel reveals a beaten up and barely conscious Leon, bruises covered all over his body and his knees to the ground. Maki holds his sword and places it at Leon's neck. Riku glares at Axel, who smirks at him in return. In times like this, Yui knows the situation and hides her hands behind her. Taro prepares himself for a combat. In his state of mind, it was time for a little ass kicking. Gear twirls his battle axe just in case.
AXEL: So, what's it gonna be? You come with us and we'll let him go. Your companions will be free also; provided they don't do crap shit.
RIKU: So, is this how's it suppose to be? I can't believe you would go to that low.
MAKI: Yeah, Kiev. Keep yapping and he won't live long.
GEAR: Just like [BLEEP].
TARO: [to Riku] Okay, now what? Why is name Kiev?
RIKU: Long story. Listen, at this point, both of me will call me Kiev.
TARO: Why?
AXEL: So, Kiev, what will it be?
RIKU: We make a wrong move and Leon dies. We cannot let that happen! He has the information that we need.
TARO: Where's the nearest water?
GEAR: Hey Axel, let's waste this dude and fight them. In that way, it'll lower his defenses.
YUI: Oh I wouldn't do that.
Gear looks behind and is greeted by a fatal karate chop to the neck. Gear goes down as Maki charges at Yui. She jumps back and throws a couple of kunai daggers. Maki defends himself by swiping the daggers away with his sword. Riku, Taro and Axel see this and were stunned at this latest development. Taro looks at the real Yui, who is still standing in her position. Riku realizes this as a tactical strategy and proceeds to fight Axel and save Leon.
TARO: [to Yui] How the hell-
YUI: Bunshin. I can create copies of myself. It's a shinobi thingy.
Riku jumps higher at Axel's direction with his weapon. Axel decides to drop Leon to the ground. Seeing this, Yui used the Bunshin to save Leon from falling. The clone manages to save Leon but Gear gets up and begins his fight. Taro decides he'll take the blue-haired warrior as Yui faces Maki. Axel throws one of his circular blade wheels called the Wind and Fire Wheel at Riku. He avoids the blade and throws his weapon at Axel. Axel disappears and like the boomerang, it comes back to Riku. Axel reappears on the corner of the roof and begins to strike the blindfolded man with his attack. He spreads his arms and closes his arms together as he unleashes his first move.
AXEL: KAEN SENPUU!!! [Flaming Whirlwind]
A large gust of a flaming tornado heads directly towards Riku. He quickly disappears just as the Kaen Senpuu hits him, but instead, the attack hits the building where Riku stood. Riku reappears in the sky and places his weapon below his feet like a surfboard. The blade is focused on the target while Riku holds the handle for safety. He dives towards Axel's direction.
RIKU: TENSATSU CHOUKON!!! [Sky Slash Leap Fall]
Axel quickly evaded Riku's attack. When the blade hits the ground, it created a large crater to the ground plus since the impact is strong, it seems as if a powerful earthquake took place. Axel jumped above the water tank and begins to cast a Firaga spell. Riku encounters it with a Blizzaga spell. After the spells nullify each other, the two warriors clash with their respective weapons. After a series of hits, misses and clashes, the two backed away. Axel chants a mysterious spell and suddenly, both of them are surrounded by flames in a circular manner. The flames' length is high enough for an ordinary wall but one touch can harm someone. Riku has to admire Axel's strategy.
AXEL: So, do you really think a mere shell like you is strong enough to defeat me?
RIKU: [thinks] Yes.
AXEL: [taken aback] That's not the answer I was expecting.
RIKU: Tough, titty. I got quips enough to cower you in the corner.
Both resume in their fighting positions.
AXEL: Kiev? Where's [BLEEP]?
RIKU: Even if I know, I ain't gonna tell you.
Axel closes his eyes and lets go of his Wind and Fire Wheels in mid air. The wheels begin to spin right in front of him. Flames appear within the circular motion. Riku knew this move. The Naraku Boe [Hades Howling] is a flame beam that can cover enough space to destroy the target. In order to escape, one must escape at a large space. Unfortunately, where Riku is currently standing, there's no escape. Axel grins at this prospect. Riku, in the meantime, is still thinking how to escape.
AXEL: I can stop using the Naraku Boe if you willingly join me to Hollow Bastion. What's it gonna be?
Riku glares at the red-headed Unknown. He needs to get out fast! But before he can do that, Axel unleashed the Naraku Boe at Riku.
GEAR: RAIKOBUSHI! [Lightning Fist]
Taro dodged the fist and Gear hit the brick wall. Taro staggers back a bit. His body is covered with enough burns from Gear's move. Blood drips from his mouth. To be honest, he couldn't take any more damage. From the beginning of the fight, Taro dodged Gear's attacks to study his moves. But Gear was faster than him and everytime Taro dodged, Gear manages to hit him. Taro gives him a few hits but nothing serious. At the same time, Taro looked for any water elements for him to transform but so far couldn't find any. Gear twirls his axe despite its size on his left hand while his right fist is filled with electricity. At times like this, Taro got into thinking what he did to get himself in this mess. He vividly remembered something. It was right after his fight with Rouge and a little bit of Ranma that his old sensei confronted him when he came back.
[Flashback]
TARO: [angry] YOU OLD BASTARD!!! WHAT'S THE BIG IDEA DRAGGING ME HERE!?
His old sensei, Leung Yun, woke him up one early morning with an uber hot water and quickly dragged him in an abandoned forest. Taro wasn't impressed at all. Then again, this has been a daily routine for him and his sensei. Leung was an old friend of his mom's and was among the few who sympathizes Taro's burden. Leung also hated Happosai, so the teacher and the student have found something in common.
LEUNG: [sneers] Foolish brat! You think you will succeed in changing your name with your bullheaded attitude of yours? I heard what happened to you while I was away! You had to resort your Jusenkyo curse to solve everything.
TARO: My curse is also my ultimate power! I almost managed to get through the old freak if femboy hadn't interfered!
LEUNG: You still think that curse will help you?
TARO: And where were you? Why didn't you face the old freak when you had the chance?
LEUNG: I was getting there. I've been away from the village for a while. Sadly, I haven't crossed paths with the devil himself. We are here to train you.
TARO: Again?
LEUNG: [angry] STOP WHINING BITCH! This particular type of training will have nothing to do with your cursed form...yet. I have learned enough techniques to teach you.
TARO: You're wasting my time.
LEUNG: [laughs] Oh please, your arrogance has humbled me so much that I can lie down and laugh. Boy, at this point, the training will be rigorous and deadly.
TARO: How come?
LEUNG: Most of the techniques I have learned may or may not kill you-
TARO: [shocked] WHAT? WE'RE TRAINING SO THAT I CAN DIE!?
LEUNG: You stupid brat! Let me finish! As I said, the most or some of the techniques may or may not kill you depending how you use it properly!
TARO: [cracks his knuckles] All said and done, we begin now.
LEUNG: [sighs] Fine, Pantyhose lad.
TARO: [angry] STOP CALLING ME THAT YOU OLD GEEZER!!!
LEUNG: Now shall we begin? You have to focus on your chi very well.
TARO: Yeah, yeah. Let's get this thing over with it.
LEUNG: (Stupid brat)
Taro snickered at that moment. He remembered his sensei teaching him new techniques that he can even beat Ranma. He got up and positioned himself in a fighting stance. Gear's sense easily alerted him that he also prepared himself. He knew no matter what happens, he's still going to win over that boy. Gear charges his fist with the Raikobushi but at the same time he charges his axe with electricity. He swings his axe in a 180 degree manner that waves of lightning appeared. Taro jumped higher but is greeted by Gear's fist again. This time, Taro avoids the Raikobushi and dive to the ground. As he lands, he rolls to the ground and charges at Gear, who's about to make a safe landing. Taro runs faster until he became a powerful human bullet that he uses his shoulder as a battering ram.
TARO: TETSUJIN!!! [Iron man]
Pantyhose Taro hits Gear in the back and knocks him off the building. Gear crashes on the car very hard. Taro smirks but when he is about to help the others, Gear quickly got up leaps to the rooftop. Taro is stunned at this development, giving Gear the privilege to smirk at the boy. Instead of using the Raikobushi, he focuses on his axe for the attack. Gear, the silent one, charges his axe with lightning.
GEAR: Now I must warn you, there is no guarantee that you will survive the Denko Rendan [Lightning Combo]. I am going to slice you into pieces.
TARO: Bring it on, fucker.
Gear charges at Taro, who is just standing there. He began the Denko Rendan by slashing towards Taro repeatedly. All Taro can do is dodge and wait for the right time to hit him. Since the Tetsujin wouldn't work on him, he has to use another technique his sensei had taught him. Taro abruptly interrupts Gear's attack by grabbing the handle. His plan is to grab the axe away from Gear for a fair fight, no weapons. But Gear fights back by pushing the axe at him with full force. After a brief struggle, Taro hits him at the abs and grabs the axe away from Gear. Taro holds Gear's axe but just he is about to hit him, he felt a jolt of electricity from the axe. He drops the axe to the ground.
GEAR: The axe is a part of me. No one can hold it but me.
Instead of letting Gear grabs his axe back, Taro kicks it away.
TARO: C'mon, we fight like real men. [cracks his knuckles] How about an old fashioned brawl? Never hurts, figuratively.
Gear responds by charging the Raikobushi and jumps at Taro's direction. At the same time, Taro eyes him warily. When Gear lands and is about to implant his fist at his opponent, Taro avoids it and jumps back. He begins the Antena Nami Kyaku [Aerial Wave Kick] by doing a jumping spinning kick on his face three times, then crouches on the ground and sweeps Gear off his feet and when Gear's about to hit the ground, Taro hits him on the chest that sends the blue haired Unknown to the nearest building.
Yui and Maki's fight began by Yui throwing a bunch of shurikens at Maki. He dodges the blades by hitting them. Yui disappears in a puff of smoke to ambush Maki. When Yui reappears behind him, Maki quickly spins around and slashes his sword at her. She dodges the blade but Maki quickly kicks her which sends her 15 ft. away and hits the next building. Maki comes after her and lunges his sword at her. Yui regains her composure and avoids the attack. Yui stands at the building, sticking her two feet and stands horizontally. Maki does the same thing. Yui decides it's time to pull out the big guns. Their fight has been based solely on speed. Unlike Axel and Gear, Maki doesn't have any elemental skills but his speed his is main advantage. Yui first uses her fists at him. She charges at Maki and pulls a combo of punches at him. Maki easily dodges the fists but unknown to him, Yui has another plan. When Maki dodges the last fist, Yui twirls around and quickly the fire encircles from her one hand [her pointy finger and middle finger together while the rest is enclosed].
YUI: RYUU ENBU!!! [Dragon Blaze Dance]
Maki is knocked off his balance and lands on the ground safely. Yui runs downwards from the building and leaps at the top of the car. Maki swings his sword at her but she leaps over him and lands behind him. When Maki looks behind him, Yui knocks his sword by kicking it away from his grasp. She then hits him in the face with her fist and executes a spinning roundhouse at his chest that sends him 10 ft. away from him. Reeling from the kick, Maki chants something Yui couldn't understand. Then a large bright circle appears on the ground, which revealed a demonic monster called the Chimera Brain. A large Heartless sign is embedded on the chest. The beast is bull but parts of him consist of a snake, eagle and the lion. Yui uses her version of the Kage Bunshin [Shadow Clone] to create three clones. The three clones started attacking the Chimera Brain. The real Ichiro stared at the blonde man.
MAKI: Of all the people I've fought...it's a privilege fighting you. I've always wanted to fight a shinobi.
YUI: Cute. And I always wanted to learn the piano, but we're pretty short on that.
MAKI: Shall we continue then?
YUI: Five by one.
MAKI: (And you talk like your father)
Yui grabs her kunai from her holster at the back. She tightens the grip while facing her foe. Maki positions his sword in such a way that it directs at her. Oh by the way, when Yui says from five by one to five by four, it indicates that she's either not in a good mood or she directs her hate at you. But when she says five by five, it means that she's fine, whatever that is. Both Yui and Maki charged at each other. Soon as the clash, Maki swings and slashes his sword at her but she avoids it until she uses her kunai to block the sword. Yui pushes the sword away and punches Maki to the face. Maki staggers back. It was then Yui decides to use a technique that her family has taught her.
YUI: HONO'O SHURIKEN!!! [Flaming Shuriken]
Yui unleashed a flaming projectile that look like a large windmill shuriken directly at Maki. It hits Maki and lurches away 5 ft. Maki felt the pain in the body and he charges at her again. She throws 3 more Hono'o Shuriken at him. All three projectiles hit Maki and knock him away to the ground. Just she's about to defeat him, the Chimera Brain throws one of the clones away just as it finishes off the other 2. The demon looks at Yui with evil intent. Yui looks at Maki, who is still on the ground. She decides to face the demon, but has no idea what she's gotten herself into. The Chimera Brain uses the Aqua Breath at her. She uses her Kage No Mai [Dance of the Shadows] to escape. Around the Chimera Brain are six images of her. The Kage No Mai is used as a teleportation but at the same time confuse enemies. The demon looks around to see which one is real. Unfortunately for him, Yui appears at his right side and kicks him at the face. It staggers back and Yui uses a smoke bomb to confuse the demon. It looks around and hits the air to avoid an ambush. Yui, who is 10 ft. away, tries to finish him off but all of the sudden arms burst out from the ground and grabs her legs. She tries to escape but another set of arms wraps around her body. More arms appear from the ground until she's trapped. Maki grins and gives a heartily laugh as he approaches her.
MAKI: I use arms to bind you. Pretty creepy huh?
YUI: You son of a bitch-
MAKI: Now, now. You got two choices: one, [aims his sword at Yui] I kill you and two, [points at the approaching Chimera Brain] that thing will kill you. So, what's it gonna be?
Yui struggles to escape but to no avail. Since the Chimera Brain moves slower than he expected, Maki decides to kill her. But as he is about to do that, a lightning fist sends Maki 10 ft. away to the wall. With that, the arms that trapped Yui disappear. She turns around and is surprised to see Ginji, the guy she met earlier.
GINJI: [smiles] Hi miss! You were in trouble and I decided to help you out.
YUI: Thanks. What are you doing here? And how did you...what's with the electricity?
GINJI: Actually, Ban-chan and I were looking for you. I can use lightning!
YUI: I'm flattered. Where is-
Yui and Ginji flinch at the Chimera Brain's loud roar.
GINJI: [freaked out] Gyahh!!! What is that?
YUI: Will ya help me kill that bastard? I'm Yui by the way.
GINJI: [gives her thumbs up] Yup!
YUI: And I'm not paying you.
GINJI: (Drat!)
Frustrated at the latest development, Taro once again is at the disadvantage point. No matter how hard he tried, he has to admit that Gear is very hard to defeat. That's why he's desperate to find water to trigger his curse and beat the snot out of Gear. Easier said than done, though. Gear managed to knock him off the rooftop and crash lands into an open garbage bin. What a way to end up in this manner. His current condition consists of minor burns on his body and a few on his knuckles. Taro gets out of the garbage bin and faces Gear who standing in front of him. Taro does a jump kick at him but Gear grabs his leg and slams him to the wall. When Taro falls down, Gear continued to torment the boy by electrocuting him. The latter screamed in pain and couldn't take anymore damage. As Gear is about to finish him, he sense something around him. He turns around to see a gigantic snake coming at him. Gear quickly dropped Taro and fear overcomes him. As the snake reaches its prey, Gear felt an intense amount of fear that consists of sweat and nervousness. In his mind, it was impossible that a giant snake would come out of nowhere. Still, all he wanted to do is to get away from it. One problem for his part is that he couldn't move. It's possible that fear has affected his mobilization. The giant snake opens its mouth and Gear screamed as he closes his eyes. In a split second, he opens his eyes and is confused. It's as if the snake disappeared without a trace. He looks around if there are any gigantic snakes lurking around. Taro flips up from the ground and quickly gives his most powerful punch at the unsuspecting Gear at the stomach. The latter is surprised at this but before he could do that, Taro grabs his head and slams it at the wall many times.
TARO: [pissed off] THIS [slam] IS [slam] FOR [slam] TRYING [slam] TO [slam] KILL [slam] ME [slam] YOU [slam] UNGRATEFUL [slam] SONOFABITCH [slam]!!!
As Taro gives the blue haired Unknown, he lets go of him and drops him to the ground. He doesn't know why Gear stopped electrocuting him but based on what he saw, the latter looked pale.
BAN: [sarcastically] You're welcome.
Taro turns around to see Ban leaning his back on the wall with his arms crossed. Ban's presence somehow struck a nerve on Taro in a bad way.
TARO: Who the hell are you?
BAN: Che, where're your manners kid?
TARO: I didn't ask you to save me.
BAN: I didn't come here to save your ass, brat. I come here 'coz we're looking for someone. A girl in fact.
TARO: If I may ask, what did you do to help me that caused the bastard to falter?
BAN: I gave him the Evil Eye.
TARO: No really. What?
BAN: It's my specialty. The Evil Eye-
Before Ban could explain the Evil Eye, they hear a loud crash a few blocks away from where they are. They run and when they finally arrived at the scene, they see Ginji on top of the now wrecked car trying to get up. They also see Yui fighting the Chimera Brain. They decided to help them.
After Axel had finished performing the Naraku Boe on Riku, he let the flames around them to die down. He looks at where Riku stood and to his surprise, he wasn't there. He expected a corpse or ashes but knowing Riku or Kiev, he has lots of tricks that he can pull in an unsuspected manner. Unknown to him, right before Axel pulled off the Naraku Boe, he used a teleportation spell and is now sitting at top of the water tank. To Riku, Axel maybe one of the strongest Unknowns but the intelligent department might falter a bit on his side. Nevertheless, Axel is one opponent to be reckoned with. He decides to ambush him just to piss him off. Riku quickly performs Arcana at him. The dark blast that surrounds the entire place hits Axel 20 ft. away and knocks him over the roof. However, as he falls to the ground, he touches a wall and flips over with his feet glued to the wall. He leaps over the roof top to settle the score with Riku, who is still sitting.
AXEL: You son of a-
RIKU: Technically, you also had some ambush tactics in your resume. You know as they say, what goes around comes around. So tell me, out of curiosity, did you align yourselves with Malvolio? I heard his trophy case of a wife is upset everytime he goes canoodling with other women, despite the fact he has his own...wet noodle?
AXEL: What? Are you insane? Why would we consider an alliance with him and his cronies? Those entire bastards do is to eat, drink and smuggle some drugs! At least I have respect for Veral.
RIKU: You forgot Veral can be very manipulative if he wishes to.
AXEL: So tell me. How do we end this?
RIKU: With victory on my side.
AXEL: You have betrayed the order. Then again, you were a goddamn mole. You have the potential over [BLEEP] and yet you chose to defy us.
RIKU: The order has been tarnished ever since he became the leader. [BLEEP] had every right to fight with you. And don't get me started with this whole betrayal crapfest. You better tell me the truth. Did you align with Malvolio? Leon has enough evidence to prove it.
AXEL: Not all of us agreed about the alliance. But he claims that it would be good for all of us to...wait a sec, you weren't at the meeting?
RIKU: You know me. Not very "company meeting" person.
Their conversation is suddenly interrupted by a gun shot aimed directly at them. Both Riku and Axel immediately take cover. The shooter keeps on pumping bullets at them. Riku gives Axel a "what the hell is going on here?" look but all the latter can give is a "I really don't know" look. In truth, Axel doesn't. Riku then quickly realized that the shooter isn't associated with Axel yet deep down, he knew it was from either Malvolio or Veral. Then again, it was probably [BLEEP]. The only thing left to do is to get Leon, Taro and Yui out of here. In order to do so, he has to tell Leon to go back to Traverse Town and get some help and decides to use a telepathic ability on him. He now hopes that Leon's conscious enough to follow his orders.
Leon wakes up with a groan and pains from his body. Knowing that he'll likely to stand up and fall down, he decides to rest. He finally found out what were his enemies are up to but before he could really find out the main plan, he was quickly spotted by Axel and fought him from one world to another. It wasn't until Maki and Gear arrived and the three defeated him. His train of thought is interrupted when Riku contacted him using telepathy.
RIKU: (Leon, you okay?)
LEON: (Yeah. Thanks for the help.)
RIKU: (Leon, I have two companions with me and the three of you will have to go to Traverse Town.)
LEON: (What? What about you?)
RIKU: (Someone's after me and it's not Axel.)
LEON: (Malvolio. He's after you...as usual.)
RIKU: (What does that mean?)
LEON: (You and your buddy are on the wanted list as well as the potentials.)
RIKU: (Thanks for the warning. Now go, I've to stall them.)
LEON: (Are you nuts, as usual? You're letting them capturing you!?)
RIKU: (Well I'm not the one who got caught!)
LEON: (HEY! I am human and I made mistakes.)
RIKU: (Whatever. Just do as I say and then find me at Malvolio's.)
LEON: (Riku, there's something else I have to tell you very important. How much do you know about the Keymaker?)
RIKU: (WHAT? What are you talking about?)
LEON: (Malvolio captured him for reasons I don't know.)
RIKU: (That settles it. I'm going to be the bait. Find my companions, a power-obsessed blue haired boy and a red headed girl who has a knack for capitalism.)
LEON: (Are you sure?)
RIKU: (Malvolio has the Keymaker. I want a bloody good reason why he wanted him.)
Leon slowly gets up and dashes to the site to see Yui, Taro, Ban and Ginji squaring off against the Chimera Brain. The four surrounded the demon in all corners. Ginji uses his lightning fist against the monster. It however blocks the attack and shoves Ginji away. Ban kicks the Chimera Brain's face while Taro gives it multiple punches to the chest. Yui quickly tackled the demon in the back and stabbed it with her kunai deeply. The demon screeched loudly enough to let the entire community hear. The snake from the demon's body grabs Yui's arm and slams her to the ground. The Chimera Brain is about to smash his fist onto her when Taro uses his Tetsujin to knock it away from her. Ginji and Ban charge at the Chimera Brain with full force. Ginji energizes himself with lightning and continues to punch it mercilessly. The demon throws a left hook. Ginji dodges and gives it a powerful uppercut to the chin. It staggers back as Ginji continues to strike it with a flurry of lightning fists. The demon manages to catch his right arm and slams him to the ground left and right. Ban comes to his partner's aid by kicking it to the face. The Chimera Brain lets go of Ginji as it focuses on his other prey. Ban gives it a smirk and runs toward him. He knows using the Evil Eye again will be risky but right before he decides on his next action, the demonic Heartless lifts a car and hurls it at Ban. Ban quickly avoids the incoming car. It lifts another car but to Ban and Ginji's shock, it chose their car sadly.
BAN: [panics] YOU STUPID BASTARD! PUT IT DOWN!
GINJI: BAN-CHAN! IT'S GOING TO THROW OUR CAR!
BAN: [in a demanding tone] PUT IT DOWN! PUT IT DOWN! PUT IT DOWN!
The demon didn't listen to Ban's angry pleas and throws it at them. Both the GetBackers dodged in time to avoid the car. Ban looks at his precious vehicle. The car didn't receive any major damage but it needs some repairs before it could be used again. Ban is upset. What the Chimera Brain didn't know is that one should never piss a very angry Ban Mido and an extremely upset Thunder Emperor named Ginji Amano. Taro, being the sick and twisted man that he is, finds it amusing. Yui, well, just wanted to finish the job.
BAN: [angry] YOU...YOU...YOU STUPID PIECE OF GARBAGE! I AM GOING TO KILL YOU ONCE AND FOR ALL!
The Chimera Brain forms his powerful attack, the Megido Flame, and throws it at them in the form of a large fireball. Yui appears in front of Ban and Ginji and performs the Ryuu Enbu. It deflects the projectile.
BAN: [grins] Thanks!
YUI: Does your car have insurance?
Ban is silent about this. It means that it doesn't have one.
YUI: Thought so. You should file one. You'll earn more.
BAN: I'll take the advice.
The demon charges at them but in a heartbeat, a sword is thrown and is aimed directly at the heart of it. It was immediately eliminated as it disappears. The four are surprised at this latest development.
LEON: Don't be surprised. [the four look behind them] A creature of the Heartless. I have to admit you people are tough. Okay, which among you people are a power-obsessed blue haired boy and a red headed girl who has a knack for capitalism?
Taro and Yui are aghast at this.
TARO: Who the hell are you?
LEON: Leon. A friend of Riku's.
YUI: Salty goodness. Let me guess, the one who got captured intentionally?
LEON: It was an accident! How the hell did they know, I have absolutely have no idea!
TARO: Where's blind boy?
The sniper waited for Riku to come out from his hiding place. He knew their target is very hard to catch so he dispatches another team to capture him in full force. Riku, for his part, waited for the right time to pull his act. Axel decided to retreat earlier, leaving the blindfolded man alone. In his mind, if he surrenders himself, he might find himself in Malvolio's dungeons and get tortured. But, why did he capture the Keymaker? So this is his scenario: get captured, endure torture if there are, break out, find the Keymaker and get the hell out. Easier said than done. But he knew at the same time Taro and Yui would have to go there and see it for themselves in order for them to know the truth and hopefully gain some insight on what they will face in the future. Okay 1/3 of it. Riku then realizes that the shooter stopped his activity. It means two things: one: he's reloading ammo; or two: he's waiting for him to come out and blow his head off. Meanie, he thought. It was then decided. He will surrender himself and hopefully get some answers. He gets out of his hiding place and raises his arms meaning that he surrenders himself. The shooter looks at him with disbelief. One of the greatest warriors giving up? The shooter knows he's up to something but with Riku/Kiev surrendering, it easier than nothing at all. He signals his companions into restraining him. A group of well- dressed men suddenly appeared behind Riku. The latter looks behind but before he can do anything, one of them quickly shoots a tranquilizer dart on his neck. Before he knows it, Riku's world turns black.
TARO: [shocked] WHAT? THAT SON OF A BITCH DID WHAT?
LEON: [sighs] Surrendered himself to Malvolio. Riku found out that he has something he wants.
YUI: [mutters] Regular Trojan horse. Wait, when we first met, his name was Kiev and then he told us that to call him Riku. How many names does he have and does it include TAFKAP and P. Diddy?
LEON: He was formerly an Unknown. The reason why he has a second name is because it was given to him by their leader. Don't ask. It was more of a ritual everytime someone joins them.
TARO: Them? Them who? Freaks 'R Us?
LEON: The Order-
Before Leon could finish his explanation, he winces and clutches his wound on his body.
YUI: You okay?
LEON: Standing still. Anyway, we have to go to Traverse Town and really get some help.
TARO: Whoa, whoa! I didn't ask for this!
LEON: Excuse me?
TARO: I only did this for a deal I made with him! Now he expects me to be a good boy scout and save the world?
LEON: FYI. Even though Riku may be a very shady character, his intentions are to save everyone from the Heartless! He only did this because all of the worlds are in grave danger of being taken over! My world is one of them! I lost my loved ones as a result!
TARO: I didn't ask for your-
LEON: I'm not done yet! You better be thankful that you're still here! Your world maybe gone but you're here [glances at Yui] along with her.
YUI: [raises her hand] Uh, Riku, Kiev or whatever his name is said our world wasn't conquered by lame-ass names of demons. He keeps babbling about our world being...special and connected.
LEON: Wait a sec...both of you are from that-
TARO: [frustrated] AAARRRGGGHHH! What are you talking about?
Leon couldn't continue as he grimaces over his wounds. Before he could fall down, Yui manages to catch him. Ban and Ginji, mourning over their beloved car, looks at the three.
GINJI: Any problem?
LEON: We really have to go now.
TARO: [carries Leon's right arm over his shoulders] To Traverse Town, right? [pauses] Do they have chicks there?
BAN: Hey! You're not leaving now right?
Ban is disappointed that Yui will be leaving immediately.
YUI: Sorry. I have to take care of [on Leon] him and [glances at Taro] Madame P [Taro scowls].
BAN: (Damn)
GINJI: Will we see you again?
YUI: Not sure. But I don't think I'll be visiting here. [Ban and Ginji frowns] What? I didn't live here.
NARU: [frustrated] THAT'S IT! EITHER WE STOP EATING RAMEN OR I'LL GO ON HUNGER STRIKE!
CID: [mutters] Yeah, you do that and we'll be all happy.
NARUTO: [stunned] What? What is wrong with you? Ramen is good!
NARU: I can't spend the rest of my life eating ramen!
AERIS: This town is suffering from food shortage and as much as I agree with you, this is all the food we have left for the moment.
While Cloud, Irvine and Kimhari discussing some plans in the other room, the rest are in the kitchen, grumbling about the food shortage Traverse Town has been suffering. All that's left are some canned goods and other things like ramen, much to Naruto's pleasure.
NARU: The artificial flavors are killing me.
GON: But, we have no choice. [to Aeris] How did this place suffer from food shortage?
AERIS: [sighs] I absolutely have no idea.
NARUTO: C'mon, it can't be that bad.
AERIS: Naruto, have you bothered to eat something other than ramen? Okay back in world, was it called Ramen-land?
NARUTO: My village's name is called Konoha.
VIVI: [grumbles] I don't think I can handle this.
CID: Kid, you're not the only one. I used to think Traverse Town as a second home. Now, we're in some hell hole. This place is known for knowing which person is from that world and his or her reputation.
NARU: That reminds me, how did they know who we really are? One time, a bunch of women called me an emasculating bitch. Dumbasses.
CID: I have no idea. Guess your reputation precedes everyone.
NARU: [scowls] Shut up, dirty old man.
GON: Our reputations are known to everyone as well. How do they know that?
In Traverse Town, everyone knows Gon is a hunter in his world, Naru is a college student who is a...uh an emasculator over her boyfriend but at the same time everyone fears Naruto since he is the vessel for the Kyuubi. For that, the blonde ninja has suffered enough discrimination from Traverse Town but he has protection from the adults.
VIVI: They have spies here.
AERIS: I doubt. But then again, all of us have seen the unexplainable.
Their conversation is interrupted when they hear a very loud knock. Cloud comes down and opens the door. To his surprise, he sees Taro and Yui carrying Leon.
CLOUD: Squall?
TARO: How about letting us in?
CLOUD: Oh.
Cloud let the three enter the house. Taro and Yui placed Leon on the couch. The rest gathered at the living room to see the new visitors.
IRVINE: Geez, Squall, what the hell happened to you?
LEON: Long story. Riku's captured by Malvolio.
CLOUD: WHAT?
TARO: [whispers to Yui] Squall? That's his other name? What's with these people?
YUI: Maybe it's their thing. Like swapping partners or figuring out which name is cooler. Hey, maybe you could join in the parade so that I wouldn't listen to your goddamn rambling!
UP NEXT: Pantyhose Taro finds out Ranma is the Keybearer and laughs about it. Yui bonds with Naruto [who begins to have a crush on her], Gon, Naru and Vivi. Speaking of the two, Taro finds out Yui's dark secret that will amuse him. Then, they, Leon and Irvine rescue Riku in which Leon and Irvine face an old foe while Taro and Yui face two adversaries [anime characters].
AUTHOR'S NOTES:
1. In "Kingdom Hearts" the Disney villains were gathered together. I will use the same scenario with the anime big bads. It's time for all of you to guess which among them are on the list.
2. Ban and Ginji are from Get Backers. I forgot to mention that Jinnai and Katsuo are from El-Hazard and Aya Mikage from Ayashi No Ceres.
3. Unknown was first introduced In KH: Final Mix. There are a lot in KH 2.
4. Malvolio means "ill will" in Italian. The name also comes from a Shakespearean play "The Twelfth Night".
5. The Aum Shinrikyo is real. In 1995 they were involved in a terrorist attack in Tokyo.
6. Remember I mentioned that I will use references from the movies and others? The Keymaker was from "The Matrix Reloaded" but a very different character. Also, think Malvolio as The Merovingian.
7. I invented moves for Taro since I wanted to be that creative. In Yui's case, her move "Ryuu Enbu" is from Mai Shiranui of King of Fighters fame. Don't sue me. My creative side has its limits. Also, Yui somehow looks like a cross between Asuka of Evangelion and Naru from Love Hina but more on Asuka. Yui's dark secret? Think of Anya from Buffy The Vampire Slayer.
8. I have thought of three summonings. Can anyone suggest an anime summoning?
9. Expect a shocking surprise on the end of the arc.
Reviews are needed! Please.
