Nocturne of Shadows

by Pika53

Xana's up to something when several new profiles suddenly appear on the computer. When two new students arrive at Kadic will they discover the gang's secret? Please read and review.

4. Chapter 4

Chapter #4:

Inside a tower located deep within the mountain region, a girl sat reading a series of digitized reports.
As she skimmed the material, the girl murmured excitedly to herself about what she was reading.

SCANNING TARGET #1

-Statistics-

Name: Yumi Ishiyama
Target Reference: Red
Total Life Points: 100
Weapon: Metallic Tessen Fans
Weapon Damage: 10 Points

CLOSE STATISTICS FILE

ACCESSING DATABASE FOR IN-DEPTH CHARACTER REPORT

-Search Results-

General Info: Subject is balanced with speed and agility and is known to take great leaps into the air before attacking.

Character Power: Target is granted the ability of telekinesis and is able to move distant objects with her mind. Has been known
to destroy other units through its use. However, target moves very slowly and must concentrate during activation of power.

Combat Behavior: Red is not very aggressive in combat and is reserved during fights. Not as likely to be
taking extreme risks as her cohorts. Acquires a defensive position during a fight making her hard to kill.

CLOSE IN-DEPTH CHARACTER REPORT

ACCESSING DATABASE FOR WEAPON PARAMETERS

-Search Results-

Weapon Use: Fans are wielded with the use of only one arm.
Can be thrown at a target and return much like a boomerang.

Weapon Strengths:

- Has both long and short rang capabilities

- Effective in defense of both user and user's allies

- Will kill unit in a single attack

Weapon Weaknesses:

- Red is venerable to attack after missed shot

- Fan's return speed is slow depending on the distance it's thrown

CLOSE WEAPON PARAMETERS FILE

THREAT ASSESSMENT

-Final Analysis-

Target is extremely level headed in battle and will only attack when it's needed. Exercise
caution when luring her into traps. Attacks are easy to dodge but still dangerous.

Threat Rating: B

CLOSE TARGET SCAN ON RED

"Interesting. Ms. Ishiyama's skills are impressive, but she lacks passion when it comes to battle." the girl commented dryly.

SCANNING TARGET #2

-Statistics-

Name: Ulrich Stern
Target Reference: Yellow
Total Life Points: 100
Weapon: Japanese KatanaWeapon Damage: 10 Points

CLOSE STATISTICS FILE

ACCESSING DATABASE FOR IN-DEPTH CHARACTER REPORT

-Search Results-

General Info: Fastest target on file and can run at extremely high speeds at will.
Highly skillful in close quarters combat and is capable of defeating several units alone.

Character Power(s): Ability#1: Target can make two exact clones of himself that are just as effective in battle as he is. Clones are dispatched in one hit but are just as dangerous. Ability#2: Target is able to run at extremely high speeds at will for extended lengths of time.

Combat Behavior: Though not as reckless as Purple, Yellow too will charge into unfamiliar areas alone if provoked. Highly aggressive
at times, target is highly aware of his surroundings and is rarely defeated in battle. Is most likely to take the front line during conflicts.

CLOSE IN-DEPTH CHARACTER REPORT

ACCESSING DATABASE FOR WEAPON PARAMETERS

-Search Results-

Weapon Use: Can be swung with the aid of one or two arms and is used for melee attacks only.

Weapon Strengths:

- Can kill unit in a single hit

- Capable of rapid attacks

- Can be used for defense

- Is able to deflect beam attacks back at unit potentially damaging it.

Weapon Weaknesses:

- No long-range properties

- Can only attack one side at a time

- Must remove blade from fallen unit before attack sequence can resume

CLOSE WEAPON PARAMETERS FILE

THREAT ASSESSMENT

-Final Analysis-

Attacking target at close range is almost suicide. Must use alternative methods if victory is to be ensured.

Threat Rating: A

CLOSE TARGET SCAN ON YELLOW

"Like Ms. Ishiyama, Mr. Stern too has impressive skills. Perhaps he would make a good sparing partner." the girl commented.

"Then again, he and Ms. Ishiyama could make a pretty pair." she added amused.

SCANNING TARGET #3

-Statistics-

Name: Odd Della Robbia
Target Reference: Purple
Total Life Points: 100
Weapon: Arrow Gloves
Ammo Count: 10 Arrows
Weapon Damage: 5 Points

CLOSE STATISTICS FILE

ACCESSING DATABASE FOR IN-DEPTH CHARACTER REPORT

-Search Results-

General Info: Purple falls victim to ambushes easily but escapes due to target's increased
agility and speed. Most agile subject in database and hardest to target overall.

Character Power: Subject is able to receive flash visions of future events and will notify allies of his findings. Has
revealed locations of hidden objects and ambushes before, though Purple is unable to control this phenomenon.

Combat Behavior: Target is careless in battle and charges recklessly into hostile areas.
Uses arrows gratuitously and has little concern for conserving ammo.

CLOSE IN-DEPTH CHARACTER REPORT

ACCESSING DATABASE FOR WEAPON PARAMETERS

-Search Results-

Weapon Use: Gloves on each hand that shoot small arrows. Projectiles unusable once fired.

Weapon Strengths:

- Suited for long-range combat

- Will kill unit in a single attack

- Easy to aim

Weapon Weaknesses:

- Can not defend self against oncoming attacks

- Is unable to attack once arrow supply is depleted

- Arrows can also be dodged

CLOSE WEAPON PARAMETERS FILE

THREAT ASSESSMENT

-Final Analysis-

Although target is highly careless in battle, he is still able to destroy countless other units during that time. Heightened agility proves to be a problem in Purple's destruction and is a major element in his abilities. It should also be noted that subject is highly gifted in protecting Pink. See later scans for more info.

Threat Rating: A-

CLOSE TARGET SCAN ON PURPLE

"My, Mr. Della Robbia aren't you the energetic type." the girl said with a chuckle.

"You should make an entertaining adversary." she added.

SCANNING TARGET #4

-Statistics-

Name: Jaden Lombard
Target Reference: Gray
Total Life Points: 100
Weapon(s): Pulse Blade & Assault Rifle with scope
Ammo Count: 300 rounds per clip, 7 clips
Weapon Damage: Unit's damage reflected upon current weapon wielded.
- Pulse Blade, 10 Points
- Assault Rifle, 8 Points

CLOSE STATISTICS FILE

ACCESSING DATABASE FOR IN-DEPTH CHARACTER REPORT

-Search Results-

General Info: Long range character that specializes in the use of human ballistic weapons. Subject is
balanced with speed and agility, although slightly less agile than Purple, making him difficult to hit.

Character Power(s): Ability#1: Target goes into a deep "trance" state before releasing a barrage of highly accurate
and quick sword strokes. Power is capable of attacking multiple surrounding units almost simultaneously

Ability#2: Target goes into a deep "trance" state before firing his weapon in a highly accurate and quick manner.
Power is capable of attacking other units almost simultaneously. Ammo expenditure rises substantially during use.

Combat Behavior: Target is extremely level headed in battle but has aggressive tendencies similar to that of Yellow. Subject also relays heavily on surroundings for defense and will take cover behind nearby rocks, trees, and other objects to avoid damage. Gray is rarely stationary while fighting and favors strafing shots when shooting. Further observation is needed on Gray. Subject has been known to use martial arts attacks while fighting.

CLOSE IN-DEPTH CHARACTER PARAMETERS REPORT

ACCESSING DATABASE FOR WEAPON PARAMETERS

NOTE: Target uses a dual, weapons system and can select a desired weapon, between all available weapons,
during combat. For clarity purposes, two separate files have been created for Gray's weaponry.

RESUME SEARCH

-Search Results (File #1)-

Weapon Use: Can be swung with the aid of one or two arms and is used for melee attacks only.

Weapon Strengths:

- Can kill unit in a single hit

- Capable of rapid attacks

- Can be used for defense

- Is able to deflect beam attacks back at unit potentially damaging it.

Weapon Weaknesses:

- No long-range properties

- Can only attack one side at a time

- Must remove blade from fallen unit before attack sequence can resume.

CLOSE WEAPON PARAMETERS FILE #1

ACCESSING DATABASE FOR WEAPON PARAMETERS FILE #2

-Search Results (File #2)-

Weapon Use: Assault rifle with scope for increased power and accuracy. Unit able
to engage and retaliate against multiple threats due to long range capabilities.

Weapon Strengths:

- High rate of fire

- Large total bullet count

- Longer rage than unit's melee weapon

- Bullets have stagger effects

- Bullets are hard to dodge

- Will kill unit in a single hit

- Can block beam attacks (unable to deflect like unit's melee weapon)

Weapon Weaknesses:

- Rifle is clumsy as a close quarters weapon

- Must be manually reloaded

- Target unable to perform diving shots

CLOSE WEAPON PARAMETERS FILE #2

THREAT ASSESSMENT

-Final Analysis-

Gray's unorthodox fighting style proves to be hard to analyze. Though by himself, he poses minor problems, when with the other targets he is almost deadly. Take careful note of which weapon subject is using and deal with the situation accordingly. Target can't fight many units at once without aid, take this element into precaution. Like Red, target is extremely level headed in battle and will attack when afforded an ample opportunity. Like Yellow, attacking target at close range is almost suicide. Must use alternative methods if victory is to be ensured. Exercise caution when luring him into traps. Additionally, subject displays aggressive tendencies when provoked.

Multiple threat ratings have been issued due to subject's wide assortment of weaponry and likelihood of receiving reinforcements.

THREAT RATINGS:

Pulse Blade: A
Assault Rifle: A

CLOSE TARGET SCAN ON GRAY

"Well, what have we here?" the girl spoke up impressed. "Perhaps there is someone with whom I can truly test my skills." the girl mused.

"I look forward to meeting you, Mr. Lombard." she continued cheerfully.

SCANNING TARGET #5

-Statistics-

Name: Rinoa Lombard
Target Reference: Blue
Total Life Points: 100
Weapon(s): Dual Daggers & Staff
Weapon Damage: Unit's damage reflected on current weapon wielded.
- Dual Daggers & Staff Combined, 10 Points
- Dual Daggers, 8 Points
- Staff, 5 Point

General Info: Like Gray, subject is balanced with speed and agility. Target is also
known to take great leaps into the air before attacking, much like Red does.

Character Power(s): Ability#1: Target goes into a deep "trance" state before releasing a barrage of highly accurate and
quick slashes and jabs with daggers. Power is capable of attacking multiple surrounding units almost simultaneously.

Ability#2: Target goes into a deep "trance" state before releasing a barrage of highly accurate and quick slashes
and jabs with staff. Power is capable of attacking multiple surrounding units almost simultaneously.

Combat Behavior: Like Red, Blue is not very aggressive in combat and is somewhat reserved during fights. Not as likely to be taking extreme risks as her cohorts. Acquires a defensive position during a fight making her hard to kill. Further observation is needed on Blue. Like Gray, target has also been known to use martial arts attacks while fighting.

CLOSE IN-DEPTH CHARACTER REPORT

ACCESSING DATABASE FOR WEAPON PARAMETERS

NOTE: Target also uses a dual, weapons system and can select a desired weapon, between all available weapons, during combat. Subject can also combine weapon's systems to extend range. For clarity purposes, two separate files have been created for Blue's weaponry.

RESUME SEARCH

-Search Results (File #1)-

Weapon Use: Daggers's are wielded with the use of only one arm.
Can be thrown at targets and return in a similar manner to Red's fans.

Weapon Strengths:

- Has both long and short rang capabilities

- Capable of rapid attacks

- Will kill unit in a single attack

Weapon Weaknesses:

- Blue is venerable to attack after missed shot

- Dagger's return speed is slow depending on the distance it's thrown

- Must remove Daggers, if impaled, from fallen unit before attack sequence can resume.

- Can not defend against beam attacks

CLOSE WEAPON PARAMETERS FILE #1

ACCESSING DATABASE FOR WEAPON PARAMETERS FILE #2

-Search Results (File #2)-

Weapon Use: Can be swung with the aid of one or two arms and is used for melee attacks only.

Weapon Strengths:

- Capable of rapid attacks

- Is able to deflect beam attacks back at unit potentially damaging it.

- Effective in defense of both user and user's allies

- Easy to aim

Weapon Weaknesses:

- No long-range properties

- Blue is venerable to attack after missed attack.

CLOSE WEAPON PARAMETERS FILE #2

THREAT ASSESSMENT

-Final Analysis-

Blue's fighting style is similar to that of Gray and proves to be just as hard to analyze. Though by herself, subject poses no problems, when with the other targets however, she is more dangerous. Take careful note of which weapon subject is using and deal with the situation accordingly. Target can't fight many units at once without aid, take this element into precaution. Like Red and Gray, target is level headed in battle and will attack only when it's needed. Additionally, like Gray, subject displays aggressive tendencies when provoked.

Multiple threat ratings have been issued due to subject's wide assortment of weaponry and likelihood of receiving reinforcements.

THREAT RATINGS:

Dual Daggers & Staff Combined: A
Dual Daggers: B
Staff: B

CLOSE TARGET SCAN ON BLUE

"It seems Ms. Lombard shares Ms. Ishiyama's defensive capabilities." the girl commented.

"It's a pity I won't be able to test her. As I recall, she's currently out of action." she continued dryly.

SCANNING TARGET #6

-Statistics-

Name: Aelita
Target Reference: Pink
Total Life Points: 100
Weapon: N/A
Weapon Damage: N/A

CLOSE STATISTICS FILE

ACCESSING DATABASE FOR IN-DEPTH CHARACTER REPORT

General Info: Only person able to deactivate towers. Complete loss of life points can possibly attribute to Pink's permanent
destruction however, she can regenerate her life force while inside a tower. Only target that is completely unarmed.

Character Power: Pink can alter the environment to more favorable conditions at her very whim through the sound of her voice.
Indication of use for this specific trait is when subject assumes a kneeling posture. Use of this ability drains fifty life points.

Combat Behavior: Subject is helpless in battle and is unable to retaliate against other units. Will avoid combat if possible.
Previous fights have shown other targets receiving damage for pink. Must use this pattern of behavior to unit's advantage.

CLOSE IN-DEPTH CHARACTER REPORT

ACCESSING DATABASE FOR WEAPON PARAMETERS

-Search Results-

Note: Since Pink uses no weapons in particular this file is empty.

CLOSE WEAPON PARAMETERS FILE

THREAT ASSESSMENT

-Final Analysis-

Despite the fact that target carries no weapons and does not engage in conflicts it is still advised of
all units to engage pink in battle. Due to extenuating circumstances, target must not be destroyed.

Threat Rating: Capture and detain at All Costs!

CLOSE TARGET SCAN ON PINK

"Extenuating circumstances?" the girl asked. "That girl must be valuable for the others to exert so much energy in order to protect. she mused. "It seems like such a waste, to invest such time into defending someone so weak. What is her secret?"

Deactivating the display, the girl stood and began pacing around the tower as she continued her deliberation. "And you dear... what value does this girl serve for you to extend her existence?" the girl asked to no one in particular. "Is she really that important to your survival or just another pretty face?" she went on. "Well, which is it, my master?" the girl asked once more as a predatory smile slowly crossed her face.

As he felt his body materialize into being, Jaden felt a familiar sense of vertigo as he landed on the rocky soil of the mountain region with little incident. Jaden quickly scanned his surroundings and was surprised by what he saw. Lost in thought, Jaden was startled when Odd tapped him lightly on the shoulder.

"Are you ready to go?" he asked cheerfully.

Jaden nodded and the pair jogged over to a nearby cave where the others were already waiting.

"What kept you?" Yumi snapped as the pair reached them.

"Just admiring the view." Jaden replied lightly. "What have we got?" he went on.

"The activated tower is located at the top of a plateau not far from your current position." Jeremie answered. "Ok, listen up guys." he continued after a slight pause. "According to the halomap, you have five Krabes, about half a dozen Blocks, and almost as many Kankrelats protecting the route to it. Oh, and don't forget that Xana can send in more monsters at any moment so you'll have to stay on your toes."

"We'll do that, Jeremie. Please continue." Yumi replied.

"Now, I don't need to tell you the dangers of rushing the area do I?" Jeremie asked.

"Besides the lasers that you'll need to dodge, there's also the fact that you'll be fighting on a land bridge." he went on.

"Now, it's not too narrow but it's still a factor that you all should be aware of."

"Seventeen hostile contacts and an enclosed space to play in." Jaden mused. "Sounds like we're in for a real treat today." he added with a smirk.

"Yeah, which means that if we're going to see this through, we're going to need a plan." Yumi remarked.

"That means we can't just rush in there and attack wildly." she went on as she turned her head and stared irritably in Odd's direction.

"That goes double for you, Odd."

"Whatever you say, general Ishiyama." Odd quipped as he gave her a mock salute.

Yumi rolled her eyes and ignored him as Aelita spoke up.

"Shall I go on ahead and scout the area?"

Jaden shook his head. "I'll go. After all, we can't afford to let anything happen to you." he replied with a grin.

Aelita smiled in reply as Jaden slowly made his way toward the end of the tunnel. Gazing in the direction of the tower, Jaden saw that the approach would be tricky. The terrain they would have to cross consisted of two narrow land bridges connecting the island they were on with a larger island containing a plateau in it's center directly across from them. A small island with two large boulders connected the two land bridges together. As he watched, Jaden saw the mass of creatures marching around the base of the plateau. One of the Krabes suddenly halted its march and turned to face him. Jeremie quickly realized what was happening as he detected a pair of Blocks following suit and warned Jaden about what was going on.

"Watch out! Those monsters are about to shoot!"

Jeremie's warning came just in time as several laser blasts flew through the air and impacted around the area where Jaden was standing. The other creatures present suddenly halted their march and began to fire upon the boy as well. With a shout, Jaden scrambled back inside the cavern while the creatures kept shooting at the group's makeshift shelter.

"Well, if the monsters didn't know we were here before they certainly do now!" Jaden snapped as he rejoined the others.

"This is just great!" Odd said sarcastically. "We're pinned down in this tiny cave and need to take out those monsters!"

"We can't!" Ulrich protested. "By the time we get close enough to attack we'll get blasted." he went on.

"There is no possible way we can dodge and block all those shots for an extended length of time."

"Jaden..." Yumi spoke up. "Do you think you can eliminate any of those monsters with your rifle?"

"Possibly, but I'll need to get into position first." Hefting the rifle, Jaden slowly walked toward the tunnel's
entrance once more. Before he could raise his weapon, the monsters let lose another volley of lasers at him.

"Crap!" Jaden screamed as he scrambled back inside "Those guys just don't know when to quite!" he growled in frustration.

"Under the circumstances, there is no way I can aim my rifle in time." he added grimly.

With a nod, Yumi worked up enough courage to peek outside and see what the situation was with the monsters.
Her eye quickly came across the pair of boulders at the edge of the bridge that were set one behind the other.

"I've got it!" she exclaimed.

Everyone focused their attention toward her excited cry.

"Ok, here's the plan. I saw two boulders about halfway down the bridge. They're of pretty good size and will make excellent cover for us." she explained.

"I saw those boulders as well." Jaden remarked. "But how exactly can the five of us exploit those boulders effectively?" he asked.

"I've already thought about that." Yumi countered. "I'll use my telekinesis to lift one of the rocks and move toward the opposite end of the platform with it."

"Oh, I get it." Ulrich spoke up excitedly. "That way, we're not crowed around one area." he went on.

"And moving the boulders will allow us to split up and shorten the amount of distance that we have to run continuously."

"That's the plan, but I'll need some help getting there. Any volunteers?" Yumi replied.

Ulrich held his sword in front of him and spoke confidently, "I'll help block for you."

Odd also followed suit, "And I'll keep the monsters at bay."

"In the meantime, I'll be able to provide covering fire for you and protect Aelita." Jaden chimed in.

Yumi nodded cheerfully in response.

As adrenaline circulated through her veins, Yumi began to create a mental picture of her impromptu battle plan within her mind's eye.

"Ok, is everyone ready?" she asked.

The others responded by nodding simultaneously.

"Let's do it!" she declared.

As one, Ulrich and Odd rushed out of the cavern with Yumi close behind them. The trio charged at their adversaries as quickly as they could but the monsters didn't waste a single millisecond and seized the opportunity by unleashing another deadly barrage of lasers at them. As they ran, Yumi and Ulrich began swatting at any stray beams that dared to get close to them. Odd meanwhile, fired four darts from his wrist launcher and successfully struck two of the Kankrelats causing them to shake violently before exploding in a brilliant shower of sparks and scrap metal. The bark of Jaden's assault rifle could also be heard in short bursts, as he picked off monsters along the group's path.

It quickly became apparent as they got closer to their intended target, that their opposition was becoming fiercer.
Upon reaching the intended boulder, the trio took shelter as Jaden unloaded on the remaining monster hoard.

"I'll take it from here." Yumi gasped as she gently pressed her fingers across her temples and shut her eyes, anticipating the mental strain that she was going to experience.

The massive boulder vibrated side to side before lifting off the ground. It then gently floated in the air in front of them as the trio slowly moved across the land bridge. As they made their way toward the plateau, the sound of Jaden's assault rifle suddenly ceased. Turning around, Odd saw Jaden sprint toward the first boulder with Aelita close behind him.

Seizing the opportunity, Odd released another salvo of darts and was rewarded with similar results to his previous attack
as a pair of Blocks exploded. Upon reaching the boulder, Jaden resumed firing upon the crowd of monsters once again.

"Ok Yumi, you can drop it now." Ulrich spoke up the trio reached the far end of the land bridge.

With a grunt, Yumi dropped the heavy load her mind was carrying. After a quick break, the trio bolted from their hiding place and charged at the remaining foes with reckless abandon. In unison, Yumi and Ulrich leapt high into the air, picking out their victims in the process. Ulrich drove his sword into a Block's core with all the strength he could summon. Yumi meanwhile, centered her vision upon a random Krabe that just happen to be in front of her.

With a quick flick of her wrist, a deadly fan flew out of her hands and sliced through the minion's armored core; reducing it to nothing more than a walking pile of scrap metal. Jaden and Aelita meanwhile, made a mad dash toward the other's location. While running, Jaden's arms were a blur of motion as he rapidly deflected any stray beams that dared to get close to them with his sword.

"Hey, that one was mine!" Odd whined as the Block he was aiming at was struck by a defected beam and exploded.

Ulrich meanwhile, finished off the remaining Krabe with his sword as Jaden and Aelita reached them.

"Well, that was easy." Jaden said cheerfully as he came to a stop.

"My thoughts exactly." Ulrich replied.

Yumi meanwhile, wiped the beaded sweat drops that had accumulated on her brow and took
a moment to relax. After all that intense fighting, the situation would be resolved soon.

"By the way, where did you earn how to fight like that." she asked Jaden curiously.

"What do you mean?" Jaden asked.

"With your sword."

"Oh, I saw it done in a movie once." he replied.

Yumi merely placed a hand across her forehead and moaned softly in response.

"Nice work, guys!" Jeremie commented.

"Yeah, another Xana attack thwarted once again!" Odd quipped happily.

"All that's left to do now is deactivate the tower and we should be back home by dinner time."

"Good old Odd, always thinking with your stomach." Ulrich teased. Odd merely grinned and shrugged in response.

With a smile, Yumi turned toward Aelita. "Alright, you know the drill." Aelita couldn't help but giggle at Yumi's words as she strolled
toward the inclined footpath leading toward the tower. The euphoric atmosphere was interrupted by the gentle sound of clapping.

"Well done little warriors! I'm impressed!" A deep throaty voice purred from somewhere nearby.

Following the sound of the voice, Jaden spotted a girl standing upon a ridge along the side of the plateau gazing at them intently. He
then proceeded to do a double-take between the girl and Aelita; noticing as he did that the others were reacting in a similar manner.

"Who are you?" Yumi asked.

"Would you like a formal introduction?" the girl retorted. "In that case... good afternoon, my name is Kimiko and I've been waiting for you." she continued smugly.

"Gosh, I wasn't expecting to meet my fan club at this time of day." Odd quipped sarcastically.

"You know, despite her general resemblance to Aelita, she kinda reminds me of Yumi." Jaden whispered to him.

Odd's face started to crack into a grin as he leaned towards Jaden with a mock whisper. "Ah, poor Yumi. I always knew she'd go off the deep end one day…"

Yumi turned and shot him a withering glare. "Care to explain what that's supposed to mean, wise guy?"

Odd held up both hands in surrender, looking confused. "Sheesh, take it easy, Yumi, you know I'm just kidding!"

"So, you must be Xana's little helper." Ulrich stated flatly.

"Very perceptive, Mr. Stern." Kimiko replied.

"Odd, hold tight. I'll refill you're total arrow count, but it'll take some time to accomplish." Jeremie spoke up.

"Ah, the elusive Mr. Belpois I presume." Kimiko quipped. "Keeping tabs on the weather are we?"

"Uh, yeah. You might say that." Jeremie stammered in confusion.

"Where's Xana and what has he done with my sister?" Jaden cut in.

"Xana's not in right now but he does send his regards." Kimiko replied evilly.

As if on cue, a horde of monsters began to materialize from out of nowhere. Besides the return of some old acquaintances, several additions to the monster assembly included the appearance of several Megatanks and a trio of Tarantulas along the ridge. This was followed by the appearance of a squad of Blocks and a pair of Tarantulas approaching from across the land bridge as dozens of Hornets hovered around the area. Yumi's eye's opened wide as the magnitude of the situation finally hit her. The girl's instincts told her that this unique pattern of combat spelled bad news for herself and her friends.

"Hey, Einstein how's that reload coming?" Odd asked worriedly.

"I'm almost finished. It'll only take another minute." Jeremie replied.

"As for the condition of your sister, don't worry she's safe for the moment." Kimiko spoke up. "If I was in your position however, I'd be more concerned with self preservation." she went on.

"Don't disappoint me." Kimiko added coldly before disappearing from view.

"You're now fully loaded, Odd." Jeremie called out. "I've reloaded you with twenty arrows but keep in mind that this is only a temporary solution to your situation."

"Thanks Jeremie. I can certainly use all the ammo I can get."

Yumi's expression changed from a haunted gaze to that of pure determination as she turned to face the others.

"Ok, here's the plan. Jaden, I need you to escort Aelita to the tower while the rest of us cover you."

"I'm on it." Jaden replied confidently.

"Ulrich, Odd, are you guys ready?" she asked the others.

"Ready!" Ulrich responded immediately.

"Let's get this party started!" Odd quipped as he cocked a wrist launcher.

"Go!"

The battle quickly got underway as the trio charged at their adversaries while the monsters unleashed a deadly firestorm of lasers at them. Jaden meanwhile, busied himself by deflecting any stray beams that dared to get close to himself and Aelita with his sword, while blasting other creatures with his assault rifle, as the pair slowly made their way along the inclined trail leading to the tower. Seeing the pair was in trouble, Odd gracefully leaped on top of a nearby rock and fired at the enemies along the trail. In the process, he eliminated a Block and a pair of Hornets and cleared the way for Jaden and Aelita.

"Thanks for the help, Odd." Jaden called out as he blasted a Krabe with his assault rifle.

"No problem buddy and since I'm in such a generous mood I'll do this for you." Odd replied as he aimed at an approaching Kankrelat.

As the creature exploded, Odd grinned and charged after another group of enemies. Jaden and Aelita meanwhile, began jogging up the trail and had made it a quarter of the way up when they were attacked by a Tarantula further ahead. Spotting a nearby boulder, Jaden shoved Aelita behind it for cover before leaping back down to the base of the plateau as the Tarantula opened up on them. Upon landing, Jaden looked up to see Yumi being harassed by an assorted cluster of enemies near his location while the Tarantula fired at him from above.

"Heads up, Yumi!" he called out as he unleashed a barrage of fire at the bluff just below the point where the Tarantula was standing. Heeding Jaden's warning, Yumi began somersaulting away from her adversaries as Jaden continued his assault on the Tarantula's position. The unexpected move caused Yumi's attackers to bunch up between the pair. During Jaden's relentless counterattack, the ground beneath the Tarantula suddenly gave way and hurled the startled creature into the mass below crushing all of them. With a smile and a quick salute, Yumi raced off toward another group of enemies while Jaden rushed back to the place where Aelita was hiding. Upon reaching her, the pair set off for the tower once more. As they reached a flat bluff further up the trail, Jaden and Aelita came to a halt as a lone figure stood before them wearing a predatory smile on her face.

"Well done, I see you've managed to reach me." Kimiko said cheerfully. "I guess I'll be able to have some fun after all."

"Aelita, head for the tower." Jaden instructed as he handed his assault rifle and remaining clips of ammo to her.

"But how do I..." Aelita began hesitantly.

"All you have to do is point at you're target and squeeze the trigger." Jaden explained hastily. "If you don't feel comfortable doing that you can always use it as a shield."

"But what about you?" Aelita asked.

"Don't worry about me. I'll keep our new friend company." Jaden replied as he drew his sword.

With a nod, Aelita began to sprint in the direction of the tower.

"So, you'll confront me then?" Kimiko mused. "I've been looking forward to such a challenge." she continued gleefully
while drawing a pair of swords from a modified sheath attached to her back. One of the swords, Jaden noted, had an adapter of some sort attached to it's hilt. His suspicion concerning the device
was confirmed a moment later as Kimiko combined both swords into a single seamless dual-bladed weapon.

"Let the fun begin!" she said with a grin while advancing in his direction.

"Triplicate!" Ulrich shouted. Two clones of himself materialized by his side and were ready to accept any orders that were given.

"Attack!" he commanded.

As one, the identical warriors rushed a squad of Kankrelats with weapons in hand in a highly coordinated assault. The real Ulrich was in the middle and his two companions were on opposite sides of him. Not a single person was out of step as the entire trio moved in perfect harmony with one another. However, the Kankrelats weren't going to take this attack lying down and countered with an organized attack of their own; focusing all of their cannon fire at one target at a time as to make sure a hit was guaranteed. The Kankrelats first locked onto the left clone and decimated him in a single blast. Ulrich resolved the issue however, with several clean slices with his sword which almost divided a pair of opponents in two. Each of the assailant's sides separated from each other before erupting into balls of fire leaving no trace of their presence behind. The remaining clone also succeeded in killing off it's desired enemies as well.

"Nice work Ulrich. Allow me to take care of the others for you." Odd commented.

"Say hi to your friends for me. Laser Arrow!" he called out to the monsters before they exploded in a shower of sparks.

"Odd, Yumi, Ulrich we've got a problem!" Jeremie spoke up.

"What's going on?" Yumi asked as she caught the fan she'd thrown at an enemy a moment before while turning in the other's direction.

"Jaden and Aelita have run into trouble on their way to the tower." Jeremie replied. "Jaden's currently engaged in a battle with Kimiko but that leaves Aelita faced with a Megatank, a Block, and a Krabe. You three need to bail them out!" he added urgently.

"Ok, Odd you go. Ulrich and I will handle things here." Yumi instructed.

"I'm all over it!" Odd replied.

"I'm bringing up you're vehicle now, standby." Jeremie said.

A moment later, Odd's overboard materialized. Hopping on the board, Odd raced for the tower as quickly as he could.
As he reached a flat bluff further up the trail, Odd saw Jaden and Kimiko battling nearby.

"Where's Aelita?" he called out as he arrived.

"She's already headed for the tower." Jaden replied quickly without turning in his direction.

"So, good of you to join us Mr. Della Robbia." Kimiko spoke up as she distanced herself from Jaden.

Odd meanwhile, leaped off the overboard and raced to assist him.

"Why don't you stay awhile and make things more entertaining." she continued evilly.

As if on cue, nine Hornets appeared from out of nowhere and attacked the startled pair. As they
reached one another, the boys stood back to back and fought off the Hornets in sync with each other.

"Odd, what are you doing!" Jeremie asked as the last Hornet exploded.

"In case you haven't noticed Einstein, this isn't exactly a picnic." Odd shot back.

"Aelita's run into trouble near the tower, hurry!" Jeremie retorted.

"Oh, darn. I'm almost out of arrows." Odd mumbled to himself offhandedly.

"Go to Aelita, I'll handle Kimiko!" Jaden spoke up as he laid a hand on Odd's shoulder.

With a nod, Odd leaped back on the overboard and raced for the tower.

"Handle me will you?" Kimiko spoke up amused. "In that case be gentle, I'm delicate." she sneered as the pair prepared to battle once again.

As he approached the tower, Odd saw Aelita doing her best to defend against attacks from the Megatank, Block, and Krabe; using Jaden's assault rifle as a makeshift shield in the process. Odd gritted his teeth in frustration at the sight when the Block suddenly turned in his direction and open fire. While dodging laser beams, Odd lined up a shot of his own. Steading himself and bracing for the worst, Odd launched his second to last arrow at the Block just as the overboard was blasted out from under him. Upon landing, he glanced up in time to see the Block get struck by his arrow and explode.

"Odd!" Aelita shouted happily as she spotted him.

"Don't worry, princess the cavalry has arrived!" Odd called out cheerfully as he began sprinting in her direction.

While dashing across the rugged terrain, Odd used a nearby boulder as leverage and gave a leap, landing on top of the Krabe
before it had a chance to fire at him. Balancing himself on the moving creature, he turned to give a wave at the Megatank.

"Yoo-hoo! Over here, stupid! Hit the human, win a prize!"

The Megatank turned and opened, glaring its eye in his direction. The energy began to
build up, heightening to crimson fury as it pulsed and threatened to release at any moment.

The Krabe that Odd was clinging to meanwhile, shook and swayed on its legs, searching for a way to dislodge its occupant. The Megatank suddenly fired and Odd gave a leap, kicking himself away from the Krabe and flipping agilely through the air to land neatly several yards away. Behind him, the Krabe found itself alone in the unfortunate position of being in the Megatank's line of fire and exploded. Odd turned on his heels, grinning as he aimed a wrist at the still-exposed symbol on the Megatank before it had a chance to recharge.

"Oh, sorry, you missed the target. But thanks for playing, here's a nice consolation prize…"

Odd fired his remaining arrow and the Megatank exploded.

"Two monsters and only one arrow!" he quipped grinning. "Did you see that, Jeremie?"

"Odd, just concentrate on protecting Aelita!" Jeremie snapped.

"Not to worry, Einstein. She just made it in the tower."

Upon entering the tower, the scene was all to familiar for the girl as the outer rings of the Xana symbol began
to light up acknowledging her presence while she brought up a small screen and entered a familiar code.

AELITA

Over an endless stream of parries, blocks, and thrusts; Kimiko caught Jaden with a surprise kick that hurled him to the ground. Seizing the opportunity, she began somersaulting away from him. Upon reaching the edge of the bluff, Kimiko quickly disassembled her weapon into it's original components.

"Where do you think you're going?" Jaden growled as he got to his feet.

"It's been fun but the time has come for me to depart." Kimiko replied.

CODE

"Until next we meet, I bid you adue." she continued before diving off the ledge and into the abyss below.

"Wait!" Jaden called out as he ran over to where she'd previously been standing.

"Jaden..." Yumi called out breathlessly as she and Ulrich jogged over to him. "Where's Aelita?" she gasped upon reaching him.

"Odd took her the rest of the way to the tower." Jaden replied.

"And Kimiko?"

"She split just a moment ago." he responded.

"What, over the cliff?" Ulrich spoke up in surprise.

"Yeah, I guess she had a vehicle hidden somewhere." Jaden commented dryly.

LYOKO

"Tower deactivated." Aelita said.

"Hold tight everyone and I'll rematerialize you!" Jeremie called out as he began to rapidly type on his keyboard.