To Love-Ru Shadow

by Kremant

Many things happened on this world. And a lot more will happen. Soon, a human will find himself in a world where he was never expected to go. In a world, where nothing is always normal. In a world... Different than the one he used to live. How things will go now, that he is going to be a part of this strange world? Well, let's see... Rated M for VIOLENCE, and some Ecchi moments.

21. TLRS-Episode 20-Shadow Unleashed Part 1

Ionas: *Wakes Up Suddenly* Aah!

I started looking around my room, not sure what just happened.

Ionas: ...

Everything is as normal as they can be. What was this strange feeling just now? Like I saw a really bad dream, or something.

Ionas: *Soft Facepalm* I can't remember a thing from that dream...

Considering the sh*t I deal with almost every day, I could at least have some actual f*cking rest in my dreams!

Ionas: *Grunt* What time is it?

I look at my phone for the time.

Ionas: Five minutes before needing to get up and get prepared. *Sarcastic* Great...*

I could try to rest for these five minutes, but I don't want to fall asleep by accident and be late. Got school today too, after all. Anyway, I get up, wear my school uniform, and walk out of my room, heading toward the bathroom to wash my face. On my way, I pass beside Rito's room. Door still closed.

Ionas: Probably still sleeping. Better wake him up now that I'm here.

Wait, what if Momo is inside too? I mean, that's what she does. I open the door slowly, avoiding making any sound, and peek a little inside. And it seems I was right. Momo is right on top of a still sleeping Rito, with her head being covered by the blanket, while her bottom is close to his head, and him licking and biting her tail- WAIT JUST A DAMN MINUTE! I look more carefully at Momo's head movements, where Rito's underpants are supposed to be.

Momo: *Up And Down Movements*

Ionas: *Shocked* ...

Oh... My... SHE WAS ACTUALLY DOING SOMETHING LIKE THAT TO HIM ALL THIS TIME?! I close the door carefully, and walk away, disturbed by the revelation.

Ionas: *Disbelief* I seriously thought that she was just letting him play around with her in his sleep. You know, just simple touching, and tail-play. Not that she was... Damn!

I knew she was thirsty, but that gives a WHOLE new level to that! Don't think she also had... Nah, no, no, no, no. Not even SHE would go that far. She is not that dumb. Even I can understand that it would endanger her harem plan if she simply "went for it" just like that. In any case, I am not getting in her way. Not anymore. Let her do her thing. It will only just prove my point in the end.

Ionas: Now, *Points Forward* to the bathroom.

~Later At School~

{Nana's POV}

I was walking around the hallways, trying to find Ion. He was not in his class, so I have a really hard time finding him.

Nana: *Irritated* Considering how tall he is, you'd say it's gonna be easy to find him.

After passing around a corner, I finally spot him.

Nana: *Smile* Hey, Io-! *Notices*

I immediately hide behind the corner I just passed, as soon as I notice that Ion is suddenly surrounded by three girls. All three of them seem to be of first year, like me.

Nana: *Sweat Drop* Who are those, and what they want with Ion?

I notice that each of them hold a small transparent bag behind their back. Wait, are those-?

Girl 1: *Smile* These are for you, Ion-Senpai.

The first girl says, as all three of them offer to Ion the small bags, that appear to have sweets in them.

Ionas: (*Sarcastic Thought* Great!* More people that like referring to me in such way. Like Mea is not enough.) Thanks, but what's the occasion? Someone's birthday?

Girl 2: *Smile* Nothing like that, really.

Girl 3: *Smile* Just us being friendly.

Girl 1: *Smile* Yeah.

Ionas: *Raises An Eyebrow* Ok... *Smile* Well, thanks for these anyway. I appreciate it.

All three of them start to giggle, as they walk fast away.

Ionas: ... (What a bunch of weirdos. Still, free sweets! Wonder if Nana would like some.)

Ion starts to walk away, while smiling about.

Nana: *Sweat Drop* ...

Momo was right. If I don't do something soon, I might lose him to someone else in the end. I must not lose more time than I already have.

Nana: *Serious* It's now, or ne-

*Bell Rings*

Nana: *Annoyed* Damn it!

Fine! I'll do it after class!

~At The Next Free Period~

I went straight to Ion's class, hoping to find him before he decides to leave again. When I reach the classroom, I peek a little inside, and see Ion along with Rito, that perverted friend of his Saruyama, and with some other guys around him.

Ionas: So yeah, they gave me their sweets, and then ran away while giggling.

Saruyama: *Annoyed* Are you serious with this?! It's not even valentine and you receive sweets like it's a simple matter! Some of us hardly ever get sweets from girls, even on valentine!

Rito: *Sweat Drop* Come on now, don't be like that.

Saruyama: *Frustrated* No! It's unfair and you know it! He is so popular and we can't compete. And all that because of his powers, and that height of his.

Ionas: *Frowning*

Saruyama: *Annoyed* Oh, don't look at me like that! You know it's true!

Ionas: *Serious* Maybe, but you forget you can at least be a nicer guy, so you can attract more positive attention upon you. No need to necessarily be tall and powerful to get the girl. If I was what you see in front of you, but at the same time perverted and real foul, then I would just be a brute in everyone's eyes, and pretty much hateful. *Raises An Eyebrow* Or am I wrong again, Saruyama?

Saruyama: *Sweat Drop* W-Well, no, but-

Ionas: *Serious* No buts! Next time think before saying anything stupid!* Now-

Ion pushed two of the sweet filled bags farther on his desk toward the guys.

Ionas: You all can share these. I believe there are enough inside for all of you.

Random Guy: Really?

Ionas: Eh, don't really want to eat so many sweets by myself. It would be bad for my health. *Smile* Now dig in, friends.

After Happily thanking Ion, they all start to eat from the bags he gave them. I see that Ion is not eating from his third bag. Actually, he keeps it strangely too close to himself. I wonder... Does he keep it for someone special?! Could it be that I'm already too late?!

Momo: *Smile* Here for Ion, Nana?

Nana: *Startled* Ah!

I quickly turn around, facing Momo, and pushing her along with me away from the classroom, before Ion notices anything.

Nana: *Annoyed* Momo, don't do that! You almost gave me away!

Momo: *Giggle* Sorry, sorry. *Smile* So, tell me, why were you stalking him?

Nana: *Sweat Drop* I was not stalking him!

Momo: Sure, sure. Anyway, you look troubled. Did something happen with Ion?

Nana: Well... *Looks Away Troubled* Not exactly.

I explained about my worry to Momo.

Momo: I see. *Smile* But there is no reason to worry. I mean, how do you know it's not for you?

Nana: *Blush* F-For me?!

I was imagining for a moment Ion approaching me, and giving the said bag to me. But then I remembered...

Nana: *Looks Down In Sadness* No. It's not for me. Ion doesn't even see me that way. He only thinks of me as his friend.

Momo: (That's actually true. Ion so far didn't give any signs that he likes Nana that way yet. But, I can't really think of him having someone else in his mind.) *Sweat Drop* Seriously, that guy is such an enigma at times.

Nana: *Looks Straight* Eh? What do you mean?

Momo: *Sweat Drop* *Smile* Ah, nothing!* In any case, you shouldn't give up yet!

Momo puts her hand on one of my shoulders.

Momo: *Serious* There is still hope! That little bag of sweets doesn't really mean that much to begin with. He is probably just keeping it for later.

Nana: *Sweat Drop* But it still doesn't change the fact of how he sees me.

Momo: *Serious* That's because you're not trying like I told you to!

Nana: *Frustrated* Hey, I tried! Many times actually! But, every time I was about to make a move, something was always getting in the way. I would try the last day as well, but that incident with Mikado-Sensei's clinic happened, and was unable to. *To Herself* Did he really have to go along?

Momo: *Sweat Drop* (To tell the truth, it was not really necessary to bring Ion along that time. I was just so curious to see him as a woman, which didn't work as I wanted, that I didn't think of letting him have some alone time with Nana while we were away. This is my fault.) Say, do you have any plan prepared of how to approach him this time?

Nana: *Thinking* Well...* *Lowers Head* No, I don't.

Momo: *Smile* Lucky for you, I do! And it's quite a simple one. Here is what you'll do.

Momo brings her mouth close to my ear, and whispers her idea.

Nana: *Blush* Th-That's...!

Momo: *Smile* The more you wait, the more he is getting away. It's not like I'm asking you to do something crazy now, Nana. *Crosses Arms* Unless you have a better idea in mind.

Nana: *Blush* Well, no, but-

{Ion's POV}

While I was enjoying the male company, which is not something I do often, I see Nana coming in our class abruptly, like she was pushed inside or something.

Ionas: *Waves Hand Happily* Oh, Nana!

Rito: *Turns To Look* Nana?

Nana looks at me with a strangely troubled face, as she was trying to find the words to speak.

Nana: *Awkward Smile* *Rubs Head In Embarrassment* Ah, h-hey, Ion. I hope I'm not interrupting anything.

Ionas: Of course not. Say, you seem quite troubled. Is everything alright?

Nana: *Sweat Drop* *Smile*Y-Yeah, nothing to worry. A-Anyway, can you come with me for a moment?

Ionas: Wanna go for a walk?

Nana: *Sweat Drop* Not exactly. *Blush* Just please, come with me.

Ionas: *Wondering* ...* Alright. *To The Guys* Guys, I'll see you all later.

I stand up, and walk close to her.

Ionas: Lead the way.

Nana: *Blush* R-Right. This way.

I start to follow Nana, wondering what is it she wants. Not long after leaving the classroom, she suddenly stops while we were still midway in the hallway.

Ionas: Why did we stop?

Nana: *Blushing And Still Looking Forward* ...

Nana turns around to face me.

Nana: *Blushing But Serious* Look now, there is something important I want to talk about with you.

Sounds serious to say it like that.

Ionas: *Somewhat Concerned* What is it? You know you can tell me everything, Nana.

Nana: *Blush* I know, but...

Nana stops for a moment, and takes a deep breath.

Nana: Listen, Ion... Can you meet me again after school is over, behind of the building?

Ionas: *Raises An Eyebrow* Behind of the school building?* Is it that much of a secret what you want to tell me?

Nana: *Blushing And Serious* Just promise me you will come! (Please...)

Ionas: ... Ok. I'll come. I promise.

Nana appears to be smiling for a moment, but returns immediately back to normal.

Nana: I will wait for you there then. *Seemingly Annoyed* Don't make me wait too long for you. Or I will punch you the moment I see you. Understand?

Ionas: *Slight Chuckle* Not to worry.

Nana: Good. *Smile* See you!

And with that, she starts to walk fast away.

Ionas: *Remembers* Nana, wait!

Nana stops and turns around, while I walk toward her.

Nana: What is it?

I stop in front of her, take out of my pocket the last remaining small bag of sweets, and extend it toward her.

Ionas: Wanted to give you these sweets. *Smile* Try them, they are great.

Nana: *Looks In Disbelief* ... (He was really keeping that bag... For me?)

Ionas: I was gonna give it to you as soon as I saw you, but you, coming so unexpectedly, confused the order of things in my head, making me forget for a moment about it. *Rubs His Head Out Of Embarrassment* Sorry for that.

I place the bag in her hands.

Ionas: I had my fill from the other ones, *Wink* so don't worry about me. Well, time to get back to the boy gang. *Smile* See you later!

And with that, I start to walk on the way back to my class.

Nana: *Looks At The Bag She Is Holding* ... *Brings It Closer To Herself, Hugging It In A Way, While Smiling*

Just before I get into the class, someone falls straight at me, wrapping her arms around my neck, and who was THAT close into throwing me down.

Mea: *Playfully* Hello, Ion-Senpa~i!

It was Mea, who was now hanging herself onto my back.

Ionas: *Irritated* Do I even need to mention what I will do if you don't-

Mea: Don't waste your breath, senpai. *Mischievous Smile* Master already told me that you don't really mean any of that, and that I'm safe.

Ionas: ... *Annoyed* Sh*t.

Mea: *Playful Giggle*

For the rest of the period, I was forced to endure Mea's antics, while she was on top of my back. Damn that ghost and his big a*s mouth!

~During The Next Class Period~

While mister Honekawa was teaching class, I couldn't really focus because I was thinking about Nana, and the reason behind her sudden invitation. If I didn't know better, I would say this is a love confession meeting. But there is, obviously, no way for it to be such thing. I begin to think of the worst possible scenarios.

Ionas: *Shakes Head Around Fast While Shivering*

Nope! Take such thoughts off my head! I swear, if anyone hurt Nana, I will f*cking twist all of their five limbs around like they were-!

*Bright Light Suddenly Can Be Seen From Outside*

Ionas: *Notices* Hm?

Was there something flashing for a moment outside just now, or am I imagining things? Many of my classmates seem to be chattering about while looking outside, so I guess it was not just my imagination. Mister Honekawa was continuing his teaching, without noticing his students' constant chatters. That poor old man and his bad hearing. Yui that moment stands up, quite annoyed.

Yui: *Annoyed* We are in the middle of the class, everyone, so be quiet!

I don't know why, but... I feel something strange. Not really sure what.

Rito: *Screams*

I turn my head around fast to see why he is screaming about this ti-

Ionas: *Surprised*

Yui: *Turns Toward Rito, Even More Annoyed* Yuuki-Kun, even you?! What are you cla-?! *Notices Finally*

Everyone in the class were seeing a black hand with red claws, which comes from inside what appears to be a wormhole in mid-air, grabbing Rito by his arm, and trying to pull him inside.

Haruna: *Shocked* A black hand appeared in mid-air...

Lala: *Concerned* Rito!

Before anyone can react, Rito is already pulled inside the wormhole, which closes at that moment.

Ionas: *Real Surprised* What in the actual f*cking hell was that. What in the actual f*cking hell was that. What in the actual f*cking hell was that. *Keeps On Repeating The Same Lines*

What the-?! Why I keep repeating the same lines over and over again?!

Yui: *Sweat Drop* ION! You can't talk like that in school! Show some respect at least during-!

I grab my head as soon as I feel something really wrong happening to me.

Ionas: *Scared* WHAT IN THE- WHAT IN THE- WHAT IN THE- WHAT IN THE-

*Ion Starts To Scream Toward The Ceiling, While Strong White Beams Of Light Begin To Emit From His Mouth And Eyes*

Yui: *Startled* Eh?! What is going on now?!

*A Few Seconds Later, Ion Is Enveloped In Light, And Instandly And Fast Like A Thunder, He Breaks Through The Ceiling, And Vanishes, Creating Holes In All The Floors Above As A Result*

Yui: *Sweat Drop* ... Seriously, what in the world is going on this time...?

[We are now going a bit forward in the story, and straight to the moment where both Momo and Nana use their tail beams to shoot at the pool, and releasing everyone from the transformation-influenced pool, that was caused by Yami under Darkness's influence.]

{Nana's POV}

After shooting at the pool, everyone were thrown to the sides by the waves, which emptied it, releasing them from its lewd grasps. Me and Momo land safely onto the floor, with her going straight to Tearju-Sensei who was still down and dizzy.

Momo: *Concerned* Tearju-Sensei! *To Others* *Alarmed* Everyone, please run away from this place while you still can!

All our girl classmates who were present immediately run away. The moment the last one leaves the place, and while Yami was still recovering from our attack, I was about to whistle, and call all the cats in the vicinity to help move Rito as far away as possible from her. But suddenly, I just couldn't move at all.

Nana: *Sweat Drop* Eh? What the-? *Struggles To Move*

Momo: *Sweat Drop* What is this?! *Struggles To Move As Well* Why we suddenly can't move?!

Even Momo was paralyzed like a statue. Then we both, along with Tearju-Sensei, are immediately thrown close to a wall, where we stop suddenly in mid-air, just before we touch it. We then fall onto the floor again, and realizing that we can finally move again freely.

Tearju: *Concerned* Are you both ok?!

Nemesis appears to be excited after seeing all that.

Nemesis: *Amazed* Ooh, how interesting! I didn't know Darkness can use telekinesis!

We all look at Yami, who seemed a bit confused at that comment.

Nemesis: ... *Realizes* Wait, it was not you? Then who-?

Kremant: Hello~!

We all notice that moment Kremant, levitating himself a few meters above of the now empty pool, and having his usual toothy annoying smile.

Kremant: *Big Grin* I'm not too late to the party, am I?

Nemesis:Oh, it's you. I guess that explains what happened just now.

Kremant: *Chuckle*

HE moved us like that?! Is he planning to let Yami get Rito?! At the moment, Yami gets up, and is about to grab Rito, but when she was about to extend her hands toward him, he suddenly vanishes from sight.

Yami (Darkness): Eh?

Kremant: Hey, Yami!

We all notice then that moment, that Rito was being carried by one of Kremant's arms.

Rito: *Sweat Drop* Wha-?

Kremant: *Grin* Hope you don't mind if I borrow him for a little while. *To Rito* So, tell me friend, how was your day?

Rito: *Sweat Drop* Um-

Kremant: *Places A Finger Over Rito's Mouth* Don't tell me, *Wink* I already know. *Chuckle*

Yami (Darkness): *Annoyed* Hey, give him back!

Yami grows black wings, and flies toward Kremant, but suddenly reacts midway like she hit herself onto something in mid-air and stops.

Yami (Darkness): *Confused* What?

She knocks at the air a few times with her claws softly, showing there is something like an invisible barrier around that prevents her from proceeding.

Kremant: By the way, I suggest you to not use your wormholes to reach us. The barrier blocks that ability, as long as you are aiming for anything that is not inside it.

Yami (Darkness): *Eyes Wide Open* No...

Yami turns her hands into blades, and starts to desperately strike the barrier with them, pointlessly.

Kremant: Settle down for a moment, will ya?

I don't understand, why is he suddenly stopping her?!

Nemesis: *Somewhat Disappointed* I didn't know you were also the interrupting type, Kremant.

Kremant: *Grin* Only when it's necessary to the plot. Don't worry, I will let her go soon enough.

After saying that, he looks toward the sky, and places his free hand above his eyes, like trying to see something.

Nemesis: *Curious* What are you planning exactly?

Kremant: *Still Looking Up* I was planning to introduce him sooner, but it seems my calculations about the "Darkness event" were a bit off. Multiverse tends to mess with time at times, after all. Nothing new.

Nemesis: Introduce?

Momo: *Sweat Drop* Introduce who?

Kremant: *Still Looking Up* A~ny minute now.

That moment, a thunder falls from the clear sky, passing just beside the flying Yami, and ending up straight at the other side of the pool, creating a dust cloud as a result. A kneeling figure can be seen within.

Kremant: *Grin* Ah~, finally. I was wondering for a moment if you'll appear at all, my friend.

Everyone were watching, as the dust cloud was settling down. The figure can be seen more clearly now, with the said person slowly standing up in the meantime. I could make out who it was, and was feeling relieved.

Nana: *Relieved Smile* I-

When the dust cloud completely disappeared, worry replaced my previous feeling, by what I was seeing.

Nana: *Sweat Drop* ... -on?

Ion was standing now upright, but he was... Different. His shoulders were covered by some kind of dark-gray armor, with three long thin creepy looking spikes on each. His torso was naked, with his breast having a big twisting black bulging vein-like disfigurement on it. He also seemed to be more muscular in general than before. He was wearing torned pants, with his legs being covered by the same dark-gray armor his shoulders have, but without any spikes, while his arms were naked, and with his fingertips having creepy claws now. His eyes around them now have bulging black veins, making a double X symbol in each as a result. And the irises of his eyes were completely black. What happened to him this time? Ion start to look at everything around him.

Momo: *Sweat Drop* Ion?

Rito: *Sweat Drop* Wh-Why is he like that?

Tearju: *Shocked* ...

Kremant: *Evil Chuckling*

Nemesis: *Somewhat Surprised* That foul aura... He is definitely not who he used to be.

Kremant: *Grin* Everyone, I present to you, the Shadow! A one of a kind transformation, that was supposed to activate the moment Darkness activated. But due to a miscalculation, it activated a bit late. Not that it's an actual issue or anything, really.

Shadow... Transformation?

Kremant: *To Ion* Now tell us my friend... *Cheshire Grin* How do YOU feel?

Ion looks around at his arms, shoulders, legs, and then jumps once slightly. He then looks in front of him, and begins to tremble.

Ionas (Shadow): I feel... Incredibly... *Ecstatic* ECSTATI~C!

Everyone around were just as surprised as they were with Yami's change of character. Ion then begins to spin around himself in a slow manner.

Ionas (Shadow): *Ecstatic* Amazing. Simply amazing! I have never felt before in my life so... Amazing! *Laughing*

Kremant: *Thumbs Up* Glad to hear it.

Nana: *Shocked* ... This must be a joke... This must be an awful joke...

Ion that moment looks at Yami, who is still flying in the air. He carefully looks at her up and down.

Ionas (Shadow): *Smile* My, my! Has anyone told you that you look delicious? *Seductive* Cause I wanna sink these teeth of mine all around that body of yours, *Wink* if you know what I mean.*

Nana: ...

Yami (Darkness): *To Ion* *Bored* No thanks. You can go bite yourself.

Ion would never act like... Like a... A pervert! What he has done to you this time...

Kremant: This transformation has brought out his most corrupted self. All his desires, all his impulses, everything he was hiding beneath the shadows of his heart and soul... Have manifested as the form you see right now.

Nemesis: Really? Interesting.

No, that can't be true. Ion is not like that!

Ionas (Shadow): *To Yami*I think I'm gonna call you "yummy" from now on, for obvious reasons.

Kremant: *Amused* Ha! Nice one! He already makes me so proud.

Nana: Why?!

Kremant: Hm?

Nana: *Real Frustrated* Why did you do this to him?! Were all your previous actions against him not enough already?!

Momo: Nana...

Nana: *To Kremant* *Real Frustrated* For what reason would you ever turn Ion into...

Ionas (Shadow): *Looks At Yami, Like A Dog Would Look At A Fresh Piece Of Meat*

Nana: That!

Kremant: *Big Grin* Simple!

Kremant vanishes along with Rito, and appear again beside Nemesis.

Kremant: I always thought this whole "Darkness" event, needed something more. Something more appropriate to the situation. So I thought, "why not a dynamic duel"?

Tearju: *Sweat Drop* You want to-?

Kremant: *Grin* That's right, golden Mama! I want those two to fight each other! It's something I was planning from the very beginning, and that I was REALLY looking forward to!

Momo: *Sweat Drop* (He wants Yami-San and Ion to fight?!)

Nemesis: A duel, huh? *Smile* Not a bad idea considering who she is supposed to face.

Ionas (Shadow): *To Yami* Come o~n! Don't make me come up there for you now, yummy~!

Nemesis: This might be a good opportunity to see just how capable Darkness is.

Kremant: We can also have some delicious treats while we watch.

That moment, a basket of different sweets appears in Kremant's free hand.

Nemesis: *Smile* Ooh! You sure know how to enjoy.

Kremant: *Grin* Always. *To Yami And Ion* Now the rules are simple you two!

Yami's and Ion's attention are now at Kremant.

Kremant: If you want to get out of this barrier, *To Yami* have Rito back, *To Ion* and to do whatever it is you are planning to do...

Ionas (Shadow): *Grinning Like Crazy*

Kremant: You two must fight! What do you say to that?

Ionas (Shadow): *Smile* I say-

In an instant, Yami flies fast toward Ion, and cuts his right arm off with her hand-blade as she passes beside him.

Nana: *Panic* Ion!

I attempt to run close to him, but I immediatelly hit my face onto something invisible and fall down.

Momo: *Sweat Drop* Nana!

Momo crouches close to me.

Nana: *Real Confused* What the-? I thought we were inside-

Kremant: Can't have you interfere now. It is called a DUEL for a reason.

He placed another barrier to keep us in place?! I watch in fear as I see Ion's bleeding wound, and his arm onto the floor. Yami lands a few meters away from him, close to us, and looks at him.

Yami (Darkness): *Menacing* I will let no one stand between me and Yuuki Rito.

Ionas (Shadow): Well, that's too bad.

Yami (Darkness): *Raises An Eyebrow* Hm?

Ion turns around toward us, and appears to have a really crazy grin on his face.

Ionas (Shadow): *Sinister Grin* Cause I will.

That moment from Ion's wound, a white bone quickly extends and sticks itself in his fallen severed arm, which then brings it back to him, reattaching itself by that way. Ion then grunts for a moment, and the wound can be seen healing in an instant, making it look like his arm was never removed.

Tearju: *Sweat Drop* He can reattach his limbs back, and even heal the wound just like that?!

Ion could not heal a wound like that so fast before.

Nemesis: So he can do that too, huh?

Kremant: *Chuckle*

Ion is moving his right arm around, checking it. He then makes a punch, and looks at Yami.

Ionas (Shadow): I'm sorry, yummy. *Sinister Grin* But you will have to try a lot harder than that.

Kremant snaps his fingers.

{The Music "Unforgettable" From "Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep" Starts To Play In The Area}

Nana: *Notices* That music-

I start looking around, and notice a music band of Reshaped ghosts levitating slowly around the barrier while on air, having some distance from it.

Kremant: *Shrugs And Grins* What is a good battle without good music, after all?

Momo: *Sweat Drop* (Really now?)

That moment, Ion leaps toward Yami, with his arms wide open, clearly showing the intention to grab her.

Ionas (Shadow): *Ecstatic* Come to papa!

Yami immediately uses her hair to create a wormhole right in front of her, having as a result Ion's face to go through, stopping there like he hit himself onto something, and then suddenly see it being pressed onto the outer side of our prison barrier.

Nana: *Sweat Drop* Wha-?!

Ionas (Shadow): *Face Still Pressed* Just so you know, that only makes me want her more.

Yami (Darkness): *Somewhat Annoyed* It seems that I really can't just get rid of you that way.

Yami raises her blade, and attempts to stab Ion, but he quickly leaps away just before the strike. When he lands, a large blade is about to stab him from the side through a wormhole, but parries it by striking it just in time by the side of its tip with his fist. Immediately after, Yami proceeds, with the use of more of her wormholes, to stab Ion with more of those blades, being formed by her hair, only for them to be striken by his fists or kicks, making them miss their target.

Yami (Darkness): *Annoyed* Tsk.

Ionas (Shadow): *Mischievous Grin* Heh.

When deciding to dodge the last blade, Ion grabs it fast with one hand by the still hairy end of the blade [Where the hilt is supposed to be if I'm not mistaken] and strongly pulls it, having as a result to force Yami to move her head inside her wormhole, being now where Ion is, where he immediately after slaps her strongly with the same hand straight to the face using its back, pushing her back out again by that way, throwing her backward, and making her end up down, with her face first onto the floor.

Tearju: *Concerned* Yami-Chan!

Kremant: *Claps His Hands Amused* Oh-ho ho~!

Yami was about to get up, but Ion lands on top of her with his entire body, after leaping toward her, forcing her to stay down onto the floor. And then as he is above her, he gropes her, with one hand at her breast, and the other at her butt.

Yami (Darkness): *Blushing And Surprised* Ah...!

Ionas (Shadow): The breast doesn't say much, *Mischievous Grin* but we have some interesting quality down here, yes. *Lustful Chuckle*

Nana: *Flustered* Ion, wh-what the hell do you think you're doing to Yami?!

Momo: *Shocked* (He really has completely changed...)

Yami (Darkness): *Blushing And Annoyed*

While still groping, Ion notices something on her hair, and immediately rolls to the side, letting her go, and avoiding multiple hair blades that Yami just formed in an attempt to stab him. They both then get up, and quickly approach each other. She attempts to strike him with her hand-blade, but he avoids it and grabs that arm of hers with one hand, and immediately after, both grab each others palms with their free hands, keeping themselves in place, with both trying to push and overpower one another from then on.

Nemesis: *Watches With Anticipation*

Rito: *Sweat Drop* Yami, Ion, stop fight-!

Kremant shoves some sweets into Rito's mouth, shutting him up.

Kremant: We are trying to watch, pal. I suggest you to shut up, and enjoy the show while it lasts. *Grin* Have some sweets while at it.

This is not good. If we could only get out of this barrier...

Yami (Darkness): *While Struggling To Overpower* *Irritated* Being looked at like that, and groped by someone like you, is more gross than delight.

Ionas (Shadow): *While Struggling To Overpower* *Big Grin* Better start getting used to it. Cause you and I will have a LOT of action the following days!

Yami uses one of her wormholes to stab Ion from behind with one of her big hair-blades, but it is stopped immediately by a shadowy vine that forms fast behind of him, which wraps itself around the blade, keeping it in place. Then while grinning about, Ion attempts to bite Yami's face twice, but she avoids him by moving her head backward.

Kremant: Must admit, this is very interesting so far. *Eats A Sweet*

Nemesis: *Somewhat Surprised* To think he would be able to fight toe to toe with Darkness... You really turned him into something.

Kremant: It wouldn't be an interesting fight if he was weak now, would it?

Nemesis: *Smile* I guess not. *Eats A Sweet*

Yami and Ion that moment push each other away, giving some distance to one another.

Ionas (Shadow): Not gonna make it simple, eh? *Big Grin* Well, in that case I don't have any problem beating you into submission.

Ion bring out of his forearm his usual bone-blade.

Ionas (Shadow): *Quite Ecstatic* Not gonna lie, I feel quite the anticipation down here!

Yami (Darkness): *Bored* Enough with this.

Yami creates a wormhole from her hair again.

Ionas (Shadow): *Feels His "Friend" Too Free Suddenly* Hm?

Yami then turns her hand-blade into a clawed hand, and is about to move it inside the said wormhole.

Yami (Darkness): Let's see how cocky you-

Suddenly from the wormhole, which Yami moves away from the last second, a long bone-white vine moves forcefully outward, startling her, and most of us. Ion at the moment can be seen with his hands behind his head, and moving his lower half around in a circling manner while grinning about. The bone-vine then quickly retreats inside again, as the wormhole closes. Wait, was that at his-?!

Ionas (Shadow): *Cheeky* What's the matter? Too big and bony for you?* *Raises An Eyebrow* *Grin* Cheap tricks are MY specialty, Yummy. At least try to f*cking impress me!

Ion runs toward Yami, with her responding the same way, and both begin their epic swordfight.

Nemesis: *To Kremant* Say, what is your boy over there going to do if he was to be freed of his imprisonment?

Kremant: For safety reasons, and entertainment's sake, I can't give away any spoilers. *Cheshire Grin* But I'm sure you will enjoy it!

Nemesis: *Smile* IF he is able to actually beat Darkness that is.

Other than her two hand blades, Yami also uses two more blades, created by her hair, to fight Ion, while he is fighting her by attacking, using two forearm-blades now instead of one, and dodging her while jumping around in an acrobatic manner, and while laughing about.

Ionas (Shadow): Is that all your new transformation can do? Not very impressive, if you ask me. *Grin* A good thing you will not really need it in-

That moment, the ground around and below Ion transforms into four big hands that grab him instantly by his arms and legs, immobilizing him.

Nana: *Sweat Drop* Eh?!

Momo: *Sweat Drop* She can transform the ground as well?!

Tearju: *Sweat Drop* (Her transform can transmit even through solid matter?!)

While Ion was struggling to release himself, Yami creates multiple worm holes, which surround him, and prepares to shove multiple big hair-blades inside each one.

Nana: *Shocked* ... Io-

Immediately, one blade after another, impale Ion's body. His legs, arms, torso, belly, all of them. Everyone but Nemesis and Kremant, were shocked by what they were seeing. After the last blade impales his body, he was like a bloody pin cushion, but still alive somehow, and struggling with the pain. Kremant makes a stop gesture to his music band.

[The Music Stops Playing In The Area]

Momo: *Shocked* This is just... *Looks At Nana, Concerned*

Nana: *Real Shocked* ...

Yami approaches the still impaled by blades Ion, and aims carefully with her hand-blade toward his throat.

Ionas (Shadow): ...

Yami (Darkness): ...

Nana: *Still In Shock, And Shakes Her Head In A Slow Manner* No... Please...

With a thrust, Yami pierces Ion's throat, releasing a great volume of blood from the impaled wound as a result.

Nana: ...

After that, Ion remains motionless, his face looking at the sky above.

Nana: ... *Trembles, And Is On The Verge Of Crying*

Momo: *Saddened* Nana... (I'm sorry...)

Nana: *Falls On All Four, With Her Arms Covering Her Face* *Tries To Not Cry As She Trembles From Depression*

Tearju: *Shocked* Yami-Chan... What have you done...

Nemesis: *Smile* Looks like the duel is over. Your boy did good, but in the end-

Ionas (Shadow): *Quiet Giggling*

Nemesis: *Notices* Hm?

Nana: *Lifts Head* Eh?

Momo: *Sweat Drop* Huh?

Yami (Darkness): *Looks In Disbelief* How are you still...

Ionas (Shadow): *The Quiet Giggling Very Slowly Becomes Louder*

Nemesis: *Sweat Drop* I don't understand, after receiving all that, his organs should be destroyed. How can he still function?

Kremant: *Grin* Here is a not so major plot twist. *Big Grin* He had no organs to begin with!

Nemesis: *Actually Surprised* Really now?

We were all incredibly surprised after hearing that. I get up and keep on watching at the whole thing.

Ionas (Shadow): *Loud Maniacal Laugh*

Kremant: *Loudly So He Can Be Heard* With the exception of his "lower kit", and his brain, he pretty much has nothing else inside that body of his! His body works only thanks to the energy system I created for it! Even his blood is basically liquefied energy! I made the body that way so he can be able to fight even under the most extreme body conditions!

It's hard to believe the way he made him. I'm glad that he is still alive. But...

Ionas (Shadow): *Still Laughing Like A Maniac*

I just wish Ion was back to his normal self. Ion at the moment appears to finally stop laughing.

Ionas (Shadow): Ha~, I must admit, *Smile* I was not prepared for that at all. You have some nice tricks, I'll give you that, *Wink* you delicious little treat.* Though... *Grin* *Menacing* Just as you penetrated me, so will I, eventually.*

Almost everyone is disturbed and shocked at the implication he just used.

Ionas (Shadow): But not now. Not yet.

Ion inhales, and lets out a bloodcurdling screech so powerful, that hits us like a wind, while also piercing our ears, with us covering them in responce. The noise is just too much! When the screech finally ends, we notice Yami's blades transforming back to her hair, and her hand-blades turning into her original hands, removing themselves from Ion's body by that way, making him fall on all four at the floor. She then falls at the floor onto her backside, trembling as she struggles to get up.

Momo: *Sweat Drop* What happened to Yami-San?

Ion gets up slowly, and with difficulty due to his deep injuries. Once standing upright, he grunts like the last time, and all of his wounds heal almost instandly, leaving no traces onto his body. After that, he starts to gasp from exhaustion. Yami tries to use her transform to make a blade out of her hand, but it reverts again back to normal immediately.

Yami (Darkness): *Shocked* My transform...

Nemesis: What was that? What happened to Darkness?

Kremant: That was a power that interferes with anything technological the sound reaches. Like the nanomachines inside her body. The louder it is, the farther it goes. I call it "Malfunction Wave"!

Ion having recovered enough, looks at Yami with a gleeful grin on his face.

Ionas (Shadow): *Grin* That will keep you in place for a few minutes. I would love to take advantage of that...

He slowly extends his hand toward Yami's face, but quickly takes it back.

Ionas (Shadow): But...

Ion turns around, showing his back to her.

Ionas (Shadow): I know I will not be given another chance once you are able to move again. And I have SO many plans, for them to go to waste for just ONE girl.

What is he talking about?

Ionas (Shadow): Having attained all this power, and after our little quarrel, I realized what it is that I REALLY want.

He raises his hands toward the sky.

Ionas (Shadow): I want to have... *Grin* Everything. Everything this world can give me. Power, money, unending wars to watch and take part to... Women.

Eh?

Ionas (Shadow): *Short Ecstatic Laugh* The beautiful women... The fantasies I have... The things I'm gonna do with them... The things I'm gonna do TO them...

Everyone was shocked, as we heard the last one mostly. Ion turns around to look at us all again.

Ionas (Shadow): *Gleeful Smile* Just the thought makes my "friend" harder than my own bone-blades!Well, in a way it IS one as well, but-

Nana: *Real Concerned* Ion! Are you even listening to what you say?! Snap out of it!

Ion looks at me with a questionable look on his face.

Nana: *Serious* That's NOT who you are! Don't you remember? Remember everything we went through together?* All of your friends...? Me...?

Please, Ion, don't allow Kremant to have his way with you.

Ionas (Shadow): ... *Thinking* I... Do remember.

Nana: *Smile Of Relief* Ah.

He remembers! I got through him!

Ionas (Shadow): I remember those times... The hardships we went through. Your company...

Yes, that's it!

Ionas (Shadow): *Aversion* How much I loathed them all...

Nana: *Shocked* ... Wha...?

Ionas (Shadow): *Annoyed* From the moment I came here, I had to go through your abhorrent, venomous, incredibly problematic, annoyingly childish personality! And all that just so no one would look at me badly. Not that the others are better, but do you have any idea how it feels being with someone as problematic as you? It's not a nice feeling!

Nana: *Shocked* Tha... That's not true... You never-

Ionas (Shadow): *Annoyed* And unlike Mea's case, I was NEVER actually your friend to begin with. For none of you, sh*t-heads!

Nana: ...

{Momo's POV}

Ionas (Shadow):I mean, come on. Who in their right mind would be friends with someone like... *Grunts In Disgust* You. You're not even developed, like at all, to have at least ONE good reason for me to be interested!

Momo: *Sweat Drop* Y-You can't talk to her like that!

Ion's attention is now straight at me. And after a moment of staring, he shows a really perverted look on his face.

Ionas (Shadow): *Gleeful Smile* You on the other hand, are simply something else. *Seductive* Perfectly developed in all aspects.* *Sinister Chuckling*

He is really creeping me out the way he looks and talks to me right now!

Ionas (Shadow): But enough talking. The effect is about to wear off, and I need to make preparations for my great conquest. *To Yami* If you can, *Wink* try to not destroy the town too much while I'm gone, yummy,* *Seductive* my delicious little treat.

By saying that, Ion turns around and makes a powerful jump up to air, leaving the area.

Tearju: *Sweat Drop* Wait, the barrier-

Tearju checks by touching the place where the barrier was, only to see that there is nothing there anymore.

Kremant: I made it vanish the moment Ion started screaming about. I said I wanted them to fight, not to see a winner, and let only that one go. *To Nemesis* *Grin* So, did you enjoy the duel as much as I did?

Nemesis: I confess that it was quite a surprising one. Really didn't expect it to end like this.

Kremant: Neither did I actually. *Big Grin* That's what makes it so great! Looking forward to see what happens next!* *To The Band* *Serious* Now, Reshaped band!

The music band looks at Kremant.

Kremant: *Grin* That was a nice performance! But don't relax just yet, we will probably have to play a lot more later. You can go for now. I will call you later when the time comes, friends.

Random Reshaped: Okay!

The music band vanishes.

Kremant: As for me! I better follow my boy, see what happens.

Nemesis: A question before you go. While away, won't you feel bad for missing what you describe as the "Darkness Event"? Considering how much you like to watch things-

Kremant: I got it covered. Placed a bunch of copies of myself around the town to watch the whole thing.

Momo: *Sweat Drop* (He can make copies of himself now?!)

Nemesis: Copies you say?

Kremant: Yep! I have one on top of the school building over there.

Kremant's Copy At The Top: *Waves At Them*

Kremant: One at the building beside the school.

Kremant's Copy At Other Top: *Thumbs Up At Them*

Kremant: And one posing behind of Tearju.

Tearju: Eh?

When she looks behind her, she sees suddenly a copy of Kremant dabbing while making a deafening noise, startling her, and disappearing by itself a few seconds after. Ok...

Kremant: *Grin* For comical reasons. *Chuckle* If something major happens, they will inform me about it. Also, when I fuse with one of them, all the info it gathered so far will become part of my memory, making it seem like I was there to begin with. *Wink* Which technically, I am.* Well, time to catch up with my protagonist! But before that-

Kremant tosses Rito close to the pool's exit.

Rito: *In Pain* Ouch!

Kremant: *To Yami* Enjoy your Rito! Bye-Bye!

And like that, he disappears. Yami appears to be close at recovering, and looks at Rito with glee.

Momo: *Alarmed* Nana, we better get Rito out of here.

Nana: ...

I look at Nana who remains silent, with her face looking at the ground.

Momo: Nana?

Nana: *Serious* I don't believe a word "that" Ion says. *Lifts Her Head* The real Ion is not like that. I know him. I know how much he likes his friends. How much our company. How much he hates perverted people. And how much he cares for others, to the point of taking a hit for them. That's the Ion I know. *Determined* And I am going to bring him back no matter what.

Momo: I can understand how you feel, Nana. *Serious* But right now we have to focus on returning Yami back to normal, or else she will do who knows what to the town, after getting her hands on Rito. Once that is over with, we will find Ion, and bring him back to his senses. I promise you that.

I promise you that, sister.

[The story proceeds as we know: With Mea completely freeing herself from Nemesis with Oshizu's help, Lala becoming small after using most of her power to cancel Yami's Planet Slicer attack, Zastin and his companions who are stopped in a comical way by Momo and Nana, Mea who fights soon after Yami to slow her down, and her being brought back to her usual self with Rito's help after using an incredibly lewd way to do it. And with that, we go straight to the part where Mikan has just returned back home, where everyone ended up landing to, with the exception of Lala who is still being guarded somewhere by Zastin and his two companions. Well, let's see what comes next, shall we?]

Mikan: Huh? That voice- *Opens Door To House's Yard* Rito, you're home?

Rito and Yami: *Realization*

Mikan-San walks inside the house's yard, not noticing them yet.

Mikan: It looks like something is going on in the town. I think something is happening with-

Mikan-San finally notices Yami still in her Darkness lewd uniform, and Rito wearing only his underpants, while both are on their knees.

Mikan: *Sweat Drop* ... What are you two doing, looking so perverted?

Yami: *Flustered* It's a misunderstanding, Mikan!

Rito: *Flustered* Th-That's right! There is a reason for-

Nana: *Serious* We don't have time for that! We need to find Io-

*A Bloodcurdling Screech Can Be Heard From Far Away, Followed By A Sudden Short-Lasting Wind*

Mikan: *Sweat Drop* Wh-What was that!

*Dark Clouds Suddenly Fill The Entire Sky*

Mikan: *Sweat Drop* And why is the sky suddenly-

B-R-200: Now is our chance! ATTACK!

Momo: Eh- *Notices* Huh?!

Out of nowhere, numerous spear-wielding beetle-type insectbots can be seen at a distance, running and flying fast toward our house.

Rito: *Sweat Drop* B-But, the defence system- How?!

Nana: *Realization* That scream...

We then notice Mea falling on her knees, while both she and Yami try to get up.

Mikan: *Sweat Drop* Yami-San, what's wrong, are you ok?!

Yami: *Struggles To Get Up*

Mea: *Struggles As Well* What is this? Why can't I-?

Momo: *Shocked* ...

This was definitely like that other time! Ion must be-

*The Insectbots Are About To Reach The House*

Momo: *Alarmed* Everyone, quick, gather around me!

I say while moving fast close to Yami And Mea, with Rito-San, Mikan-San, and Nana moving beside me as well. Immediately by using my D-Dial Phone, which thankfully still works somehow, I bring out a small tower-like invention, which I place onto the ground in front of me. Activating it fast, the invention generates a bluish barrier around us, with some of the insectbot falling against it, unable to pass through, and then attacking it with their spears in a hopeless attempt to break through.

Momo: I knew this would come in handy.

Mikan: *Sweat Drop* So Kremant was saying the truth about the robot's planned attack. Just like you told us, Momo-San.

Rito: *Sweat Drop* Who would have thought?

A-H-R-1: So, you knew we were coming.

The robot soldiers stop attacking the barrier, and make space for their ant-looking captain and his blue beetle-type sergeant. Once they approach the barrier, they stop just in front of it, and the captain crosses his two upper arms.

B-R-200: It appears the message we received till this point was true. Their defenses are weakened, like it said.

Message?

A-H-R-1: And two of their dangerous factors appear to be that way as well. And with their main defender away, we will be able to capture them all without much effort.

B-R-200: It looks like we didn't really need these two-hundred soldiers you asked for.

They brought how many with them?!

B-R-200: Anyway, our scouts have princess Lala on sight. Should I order them to proceed with the capture?

Big sister...

A-H-R-1: Not until we make sure to capture these two first. We can't allow any mistakes to be made.

Nana: *Cocky* Well, you have already made one!

A-H-R-1: You're obviously referring to this "pocket barrier" of yours, so here is my answer to that. *To His Soldiers* Sapper team!

Nana: Huh?

After saying that, five dark-yellow beetle-type insectbot soldiers step forward, each of them holding a big drill-like device with their two upper arms.

A-H-R-1: Bring it down.

Hearing that, the five insectbot quickly surround the barrier and activate their drills, which start to emit a cyan-colored energy while rotating. Then, they strongly push their drills onto the barrier, with the barrier acting strangely from that action, as they drill at it.

Rito: *Sweat Drop* Oh no!

A-H-R-1: *To His Soldiers* Soldiers! Ready your weapons! When this barrier falls, I want them all stunned in an instant!

The robot soldiers aim their weapons at us, with some even aiming toward the sky in case we try to fly away. This is not good, at this rate the barrier will fall, and Yami with Mea are still under the "scream effect".

Mikan: *Looks Around* *Sweat Drop* Where is Ion? Was he not with you? He knows how to deal with them!

Rito: *Sweat Drop* Umm...

Momo: *Sweat Drop* You see, the thing is-

*The Fast Wacky Trumpet Version Of "The Lone Ranger Theme Song" Can Be Heard Close By*

Momo: Huh?

B-R-200: What is that sound? Where is it coming from?

Random Insectbot Soldier: Over there, sir!

The soldier points at a small black Cat using a trumpet, wears a top hat, a monocle, and while riding a brown Capybara, running toward their army. The soldiers that are on the way step aside, looking at the animal duo greatly confused, as they pass through. Eventually, they stop as soon as they reach the captain, drawing even the attention of the sapper team, who stop their activity once they witness them. Finally, the cat stops with the trumpet, puts it aside, and now looks upward and straight at the captain's face.

A-H-R-1: *Confused* Umm...

We can all agree that everyone is equally confused about this.

Capybara Riding Cat: *Clears Throat* *Gentleman Voice* Greetings to everyone present!

Rito: *Sweat Drop* Th-The cat just talked?!

Nana: *Sweat Drop* You can understand it?!

Capybara Riding Cat: I am here to inform you, ladies and gentlemen, that we are here to bring an end to your old way of life, kindly ruin your as*es and robotic bottoms, and eventually take over this beautiful town of yours.

Everyone looks at each other, not sure how to respond to all that, and chatter about.

B-R-200: *To Rito And The Rest* *Points At The Animal Duo* Is this some kind of joke of your planet?

Rito And The Rest: *Shake Their Heads In A Fast Manner*

Random Insectbot: *Confused* Not sure if I should laugh, or feel sad about it.

A-H-R-1: *Loud And Demanding* Soldiers!

All the soldiers quieten down in response to the captains voice, and are now in absolute attention. The captain looks at the cat, with a serious look on his face.

A-H-R-1: Are you joking around, or you really ARE serious about what you just said?

Capybara Riding Cat: My good sir, I can assure you, we are really serious about this.

A-H-R-1: ... Alright. In that case, I need to ask you. *Points At The Cat* YOU, and what army?

Capybara Riding Cat: *Turns Around And Points Forward* Well, that one of course.

The moment it said that, the ground starts to shake around us, and then suddenly at a great distance inside the town, the ground raises real high, destroying buildings around it as a result, and forming into a huge grey hill.

Rito: *Shockingly Surprised* Eeh~?!

*The Ground Stops Shaking*

Everyone was surprised and in shock by what we just witnessed. What in the world is going on now?!

A-H-R-1: *Presses Button On His Arm* Scouts, report!

Communication: *Strange Buzzing*

A-H-R-1: ... *To His Army* All of you, check your communications!

The robot soldiers check their own communicators, only to hear the same buzzing.

Insectbot Soldier: All communications are down, sir!

B-R-200: *Real Concerned* Mine too!

A-H-R-1: Something must be blocking the signal. And if I have to guess, it has a connection to the hill that just appeared. Something inside probably. *Notices* Hm?

That moment, we all notice two tall figures walking from the other side of the hill, and stop once they reach the top. They are too far to see them clearly.

A-H-R-1: *Points At A Random Insectbot* You, soldier! To the sky! Binoculars! Inform! Go!

Insectbot Soldier: *Salutes* Y-Yes Sir!

The robot flies up to the sky and uses his personal binoculars to see and examinate the two figures on the hill more carefully. At the moment, I notice Yami and Mea being close to recovery.

A-H-R-1: What do you see?

Insectbot Soldier: I see two humanoids on top of two black-colored horses!

Nana: Horses?

Insectbot Soldier: The one on the right is wearing black medieval-type plate armor, and a helmet that appears to be a red plumed ancient-type black Corinthian helmet!

I have no idea just by the name how that last one looks like. How do THEY know, though?

Insectbot Soldier: The one on the left is wearing the same plated armor, but it has a mix of both dark-grey and gold, mostly dark-grey colored, wears a hood with the same grey color over the head, with a golden mask covering the face, which seems oddly familiar! Oh, also the armor has strangely long-spiked shoulders!

Nana: *Sweat Drop* Wait, the spikes! How do they look like exactly?!

B-R-200: SILENC-!

A-H-R-1: NO!

B-R-200: Huh?

A-H-R-1: I want to see where this is going. It might be of help to us. *To His Soldier* Soldier!

Insectbot Soldier: Right! The shoulder spikes are long, thin, and I don't know why, but I feel like something inside me wants me to also say "creepy looking"!

Nana: *Realization* That... That must be Ion! There is no mistaking it!

Mikan: *Sweat Drop* Ion?

B-R-200: *Surprised* That human did that?!

But if that's Ion, then who is that person beside him?

Mikan: *To A-H-R-1* *Cocky* You're in for it now! Ion will-!

Momo: *Sweat Drop* Actually, Mikan-San, there is something you need to know about Ion. You see...

~Meanwhile~At The Hill~

While the people below were shocked and wondering about the sudden emergence of the hill, the two horsemen at the top were looking from afar the situation Rito and the rest were in.

?: It looks like your prey is under siege, my lord.

Ionas (Shadow): Also, I feel a lack of... Darkness were they calling the transformation? Anyway, that. Probably found a way to get her back to normal already. Kinda disappointing. I really wanted to see what reaction that new personality of hers would make after the... Insertion. *Ecstatic Chuckling* Oh well, I'm sure she can still make an appropriate reaction for my amusement. Cavalry Commander, send our little gifts to the robots. As a "thank you" for their efforts.

Shadow's Cavalry Commander: *Salutes* Αμέσως! [Right away]

The general points at the insectbot army, and a giant bat, which carries something inside a net, flies toward their location.

~Back At The House Yard~

Mikan: *Sweat Drop* For real?!

Momo: Unfortunately yes. Ion has been brainwashed by Kremant, and now he-

Rito: *Notices* *Sweat Drop* Wh-What is that?!

We all watch in surprise, as a giant bat flies toward our location. It appears to be carrying something with its clawed feet inside a net.

Momo: *Looks Carefully* *Sweat Drop* Wait, are those... Insectbot heads?

As it flies just a few meters above of the robotic army, it drops the heads at them, making them very uneasy about the fact. Having completed its deed, the bat flies back to where it came from.

B-R-200: *Realization* Are those...

A-H-R-1: The heads of our scouts... No wonder none came back flying. Those I sent to keep an eye on him... *Frustrated* He got all ten of them.

B-R-200: *Upset* He will answer for this!

The insectbot captain looks again at the Cat, which at the moment drinks from a teacup.

A-H-R-1: I know Ion is capable of much, especially after his "transformation", but two people are not something you'd call an army. *Raises An Eyebrow* You know that, right?

Capybara Riding Cat: *Points With Its Head* Look again.

We look at the hill again, and notice coming from behind of it multiple horsemen in heavy armor, and pretty much similar equipment like the one next to Ion, who stop just behind him. We are not sure how many are exactly, but they seem many.

Rito: *Sweat Drop* Wha-!

A-H-R-1: *Surprised* ...

Seriously, where did all those come from?

Ionas (Shadow): *Booming Voice* ΣΤΡΑΤΙΏΤΕ~Σ! [SOLDIE~RS]

He speaks so loudly that we can hear him from here! Though, personally, I have no idea what he just said.

B-R-200: What did he say?

A-H-R-1: He gets the attention of his soldiers.

He understood that?! I mean, he did say his "components" come from a greek, but-

Capybara Riding Cat: I need to say one last thing before leaving.

Everyone looks at the Cat.

Capybara Riding Cat: You are absolutely, positively, f*cked. Good day!

By saying that, the two animals vanish into thin air.

Ionas (Shadow): *Booming Voice* ΕΜΠΡΌΣ ΜΑΡΣ! [FORWARD MARCH]

{The Music "Jeff Van Dyck - War Of Kings" From "Medieval 2 Total War" Starts To Play In The Area}

The cavalry, along with the unknown person beside Ion, start to run down the hill, letting us see that their numbers are around fifty men. They are coming fast toward our location, while Ion remains alone at the top of the hill.

A-H-R-1: *Alarmed* Team A! Meet the enemy halfway, and remain in position! Don't let them pass through that point! Sappers, break the barrier, double time!

At that order, one-hundred insectbots quickly run toward the defense point, while the Sapper Team starts once more to drill our barrier.

Mikan: *Sweat Drop* This looks really bad!

Yami: Don't worry, Mikan.

We notice Yami-San and Mea-San standing up, having recovered completely from the effect.

Mikan: *Happy* Yami-San, you're ok!

Yami: We won't let them lay a hand on you. *Turns Hands Into Blades*

Mea: *Smile* I never fought one of these before. Looks like fun! *Turns Braid And Hands Into Blades*

Nana: *Sweat Drop* Are you sure you can fight in your state?

Mea: *Smile* Don't worry, Nana-Chan, I feel just fine!

Yami: Let's be ready for when they breach the barrier.

Mea: Right!

They both get into stance, and are ready for action. It's good to see they are both back to normal again. Now... Let's see what happens.

~Meanwhile~At The Named Defense Point~

The one-hundred insectbot soldiers reach the designated location, and form a typical line formation, with the buildings to their right and left helping them as anti-encirclement obstacles. When the cavalry gets within shooting range, the robots aim with their spear-like weapons, and begin to shoot their stun shots at them. They hit their targets, but with no effect, as the cavarly continues unimpeded.

Insectbot Soldier: The shots have no effect!

Insectbot In Command: *Frustrated* Damn! If only we brought lethal weaponry with us!

Ionas (Shadow): *Booming Voice* ΙΠΠΙΚΌ! [CAVARLY] ΣΠΆΘΕΣ! [Plural for: SWORDS]

The horsemen draw their swords, and are close to reaching the robot's defense line.

Insectbot In Command: *Alarmed* Prepare for impact!

The insectbots extend their spear-like weapons forward, and prepare for the cavalry's imminent charge.

Ionas (Shadow): *Booming Voice* ΣΆΡΙΣΕ~Σ! [Plural for: SARISSA]

After saying that, nothing appears to happen.

B-R-200: Sir?

A-H-R-1: A really long spear. *Thinking* But that doesn't make sense considering-

Ionas (Shadow): *Booming Voice* ΕΦΌΡΜΗΣΗ! [ONRUSH]

By saying that, just before the cavalry reach the spear wall, their unknown commander raises his sword toward the sky, and the horsemen jump and levitate above of the insectbots, avoiding them, and revealing one-hundred heavy armored foot-soldiers [With similar armor and helmet obviously], armed with really long spears rushing toward the robot army.

Insectbot In Command: *Real Surprised* WHA-?!

Shadow's Infantry Commander: SKEWER THEM LIKE LAMBS!

With a loud war cry, the spearmen fiercely charge forward, impaling many of the insectbots in front of them with their long spears, and even impaling the robots of the second and third line as a result of their charge.

Shadow's Cavalry Commander: CUT THEM DOWN!

Immediately after, the levitating cavalry goes into a downward charge, crushing and cutting any robot beneath. Parts from the unfortunate robots were flying around, as they are being pretty much massacred by Ion's soldiers.

A-H-R-1: *Shocked* ... My soldiers...

B-R-200: *Disbelief* They caught them off guard and are beating them like they are nothing!

A-H-R-1: *Confused* They had no infantry with them when they were running down the hill. Where did they-? *Notices Something*

While the fight kept on going, the captain notices some of Ion's spearmen vanishing and reappearing for a moment, as if they were flickering lights.

A-H-R-1: *Realization* I see, they can turn invisible.

B-R-200: *Surprised* Eh?!

Momo: *Sweat Drop* They have Ion's invisibility?!

Rito: *Sweat Drop* Then could it mean... That all of them...

Yami: Are Ion's constructs. Automatons of some sort.

B-R-200: *Real Frustrated* Just how many powers he has?!

When the last of the one-hundred robots is destroyed, the cavalry moves behind of the infantry, and stays there, and the infantry stays in line with their long spears extended.

~At The Hill~

Ionas (Shadow): How disappointing. And they call themselves an empire.

...

Ionas (Shadow): *Amused* Well, let's beat their as*es some more! *Booming Voice* ΣΆΡΙΣΕΣ, ΕΜΠΡΌΣ!

~At The House~

Giving his order, the Infantry Commander points at the insectbot army that remains in our yard, and along with his spearmen, he begins to advance at a slow pace forward, while the cavalry remains in position.

A-H-R-1: ... *Serious* All remaining units, stop all actions! We are going back to the base! Full retreat!

The sapper team stops, and all the insectbot look at him in surprise.

B-R-200: *Troubled* Sir, we can't just do that! If we retreat now after taking so many casualties, the great one will-

A-H-R-1: *Real Serious* I will take full responsibility for what happened here today!* For now, we need to focus on mitigating our casualties. *Frustrated* We lost enough men.

B-R-200: What about our targets?

The captain looks at us for a moment.

A-H-R-1: ... Leave them. It's not like we have a choice in the matter.

The captain presses a button on his head, but nothing happens. He then looks at the hill Ion stands on.

Ionas (Shadow): *Waves From Afar*

A-H-R-1: *Realization* ... *Serious* Soldiers! We are unable to teleport! We need to fly as far as we can from this place, till the teleportation signal is restored! Move out!

And with that, the remaining army of the insectbots starts to fly away at a fast pace, leaving this place.

Ionas (Shadow): *Booming Voice* OH NO, YOU'RE NOT OFF THE HOOK JUST YET! ΣΆΡΙΣΕΣ! ΞΟΠΊΣΩ ΤΟΥΣ! [AFTER THEM]

The moment he gives that order, the spearmen and their Commander grow wings from their backs, and start to fly after the insectbots.

Mikan: *Sweat Drop* ... Seriously, what a day this is...

Nana: *Looks At The Top Of The Hill* *Serious* It's not over yet.

Momo: *Serious* Nana is right. We... *Looks At The Top Of The Hill* Still have Ion to deal with.

But how do we get HIM back to normal?

{The Music Stops Playing In The Area}

~At The Hill~

Ionas (Shadow): ...Well then!

Ion gets off his horse, which submerges almost instantly inside the hill, and a black speech platform emerges in front of him. He places both hands at its sides, and looks around the town. He places one of his hands at his mask's cheek for a moment, seemingly chuckling a little, and then places it again at the platform's side.

Ionas (Shadow): *Booming Voice* ATTENTION ALL CITIZENS OF SAINAN TOWN!

Saying that, the citizens' attention is now at him. Many were either confused or afraid because of the hill and the destroyed buildings around it.

Ionas (Shadow): *Booming Voice* SOME OF YOU MIGHT HAVE KNOWN ME AS ION! OR MORE SIMPLY, AS THAT REALLY TALL, NICE GUY! WELL, I THINK IT'S TIME TO SHOW YOU MY TRUE COLORS! BY TAKING EVERYTHING YOU LOVE AWAY, FOR MY OWN ENJOYMENT! YOUR TOWN, YOUR PROPERTY, YOUR DELICIOUS... YOU KNOW WHAT? I WILL JUST THROW THIS ORDER, IN A WAY SO YOU CAN FULLY UNDERSTAND THE SITUATION YOU'RE IN! SOLDIERS!

By saying that, the cavalry turns around, and faces Ion, with more horsemen being seen emerging from the ground below the hill, startling everyone around. Ion then looks straight at our location.

Ionas (Shadow): *Ominous Laugh* *Booming Voice* I WILL COME FOR YOU ALL OVER THERE LATER! AFTER I HAVE MY FILL WITH THE REST!

Wait, don't tell me he is planning to-?!

*Crushing Noise Can be Heard From The Hill*

Suddenly, the hill crumbles, as something huge raises from below, and then see emerging from it a structure that looks like a giant black Manta Ray, which is now flying slowly high at the sky, above of the town, with Ion standing on top of its head. Multiple cannons can be seen below at the Manta's belly and sides. People watch in fear and unease at the whole thing, while also trying to avoid the debris that falls down from it, after its emergence off the ground.

Ionas (Shadow): *Raises Fist In The Air* *Booming Voice* SOLDIERS, ATTACK THE TOWN, BRING ME ALL THE SUITABLE WOMEN, AND KILL THE REST! *Ecstatic* IT'S TIME TO HAVE THE TIME OF MY LIFE! *Ominous Laughing*

{The Music "Mayhem" From "Rome Total War" Starts To Play In The Area}

After giving his order, every horseman on the ground start to run through the town in multiple teams, slashing and hacking every person they find in their path, while also grabbing every girl they find, killing some of them after carefully looking at them, and flying with the ones they deemed suitable at the back of the giant Manta. At the same time, the cannons from the giant Manta shoot big metallic balls as projectiles at the town's buildings, turning them slowly but surely into rubble. There is chaos everywhere, as the people run for their lives.

Rito: *Shocked* The town! The people!

Mikan: *Shocked* This is horrible! We have to do something!

Nana: *Shocked And In Disbelief At What Is Ion Causing* Ion, no...

Yami: *Looks At The Giant Manta Where Ion Is* We need to take him down.

Nana: Eh?

Yami: They might vanish as soon as their creator falls.

Nana: *Sweat Drop* Y-You don't mean to kill him by saying that, right?

Yami: No. Just make him lose consciousness.

Nana: *Relief* I-I see.

Yami: I will go deal with him, while you, Mea, along with princess Momo and Nana try to take care of those soldiers, and save as many people as possible. We will need to evacuate the town and soon.

The Three: *Serious* Right!

Mikan: What about us?

Rito: *Serious* We want to help too!

Yami: ... Normally I would ask you to stay indoors, but it will be far more dangerous to leave you alone without protection. You will go with Mea, and help with the evacuation. We wasted enough time.

By saying that, Yami changes her outfit back to her usual one, and grows wings.

Yami: Let's go!

Yami flies away, going toward the giant Manta.

Nana: (Let's hope Yami can stop him, end this madness, and bring Ion back to his senses soon. Please... Just come back, Ion...)

{Author's POV}

When Yami was halfway to reaching the giant Manta, flying horsemen started appearing from everywhere in the sky, blocking her way, and forcing her to face them. Yami is managing, but has a hard time dealing with them because they are not your usual enemy. Meanwhile, the rest of the gang, divided into three teams [Nana on her own with some help of her animals] [Momo on her own with some help from her plants] [Mea along with Rito and Mikan], were busy dealing with the horsemen around the town, saving as many people as they can, and escorting them as far away as possible calmly, while also witnessing the horrible remnants Ion's soldiers left on their path through the town. Death and destruction was everywhere they were walking. Mutilated corpses, known locations ruined, the stench of dried blood in the air, and the war-like music the Reshaped keep on playing. An awful experience they will not forget soon. "How could someone like Ion bring so much misery" they were asking themselves.

~Meanwhile~

Kremant was sitting along with Nemesis on a small levitating platform above the town, while watching the mayhem that was going on in most of the said town, while each was enjoying a bowl of candy.

Kremant: *Gulps A Candy* You must admit. Ion is doing quite the job so far.

Nemesis: To think someone like Ion would bring such mayhem-

Kremant: *Chuckle*

Nemesis: That, I never expected. *Smile* That Shadow transformation of his is really something. After the disappointment I received from Darkness, it's good seeing some actual killing and destruction being caused. Kinda makes the time I lost worth it.

Kremant: *Grin* Glad you like it!

Nemesis: By the way, why "Shadow"?

Kremant: The first reason, is because unlike the term "Darkness", which is more commonly used as the "opposite", the term "Shadow" is mostly used as the "hidden" factor. As in, everything you want to keep hidden in the shadows. All the bad, more precisely. Thoughts, desires, fears, anything a person carries within themselves. Can't everything be pretty, as you can understand.

Nemesis: And the second reason?

Kremant: I mean, look at me. I look like a literal shadow. And I am the one who gave him his powers, so... Yeah.

Nemesis: I see. *Gulps A Candy* So, how you think this will-?

Kremant: I have a few ideas about how all this "Shadow event" might proceed. But in the end, not really sure. Let's just enjoy it, and see what all this has in store. *Gulps A Candy*

~At The Giant Manta~

Ion was looking from above his giagantic Manta the town below, and even behind his mask, it was obvious he was enjoying the view of death and destruction he was causing.

Ionas (Shadow): *Gleeful* Yeah, baby! That's what I'm talking about! They never saw what hit them! I can hear their screams of despair from up here. Such mayhem! I will not be surprised if the music I'm hearing is called "Mayhem"!

*Kremant's Chuckling Can Be Heard From Afar*

Ionas (Shadow): So it is! *Amused Laugh* LOVE IT! Oh, and speaking of love-

Ion looks behind him, where at the middle of the Manta's back is a big dome-like cage, where inside are multiple women. Some scared and worried about their fate, and some trying to pointlessly escape from the cage.

Ionas (Shadow): *Sinister Giggling* Just you wait, my pretties! After I have gathered enough of you, we will get so busy... *Ecstatic Chuckling*

The women inside the cage were creeped out by Ion, as they even saw something that looks like saliva dripping from below his mask while he was Chuckling about. Lots of it.

Ionas (Shadow): *Notices Something Coming* Hm?

What Ion was seeing, is some of his horsemen returning, carrying some known females with them.

Ionas (Shadow): OH! *Claps His Hands In Excitement* More concubines for the cage! Let's see what you brought!

The girls are immediately thrown by the horsemen inside the cage, and Ion goes close with excitement to inspect. The girls they brought are Risa, Haruna, Yui, and Saki. All four of them were looking at the masked man who stares at them, filling them with unease. Risa was mostly confused, Haruna was scared, while Yui and Saki were mostly upset.

Ionas (Shadow): A nice catch indeed!

After that, the horsemen leave to continue their work.

Risa: *Sweat Drop* I get that you're the one behind all of this. What are you supposed to be exactly?

Saki: *To Ion* *Annoyed* And how dare you treat me like I'm some kind of-!

Ionas (Shadow): *Serious* Shut your c*ckhole, you wh*re!

Saki: *Gasps Offended*

{The Music Stops Playing In The Area}

Yui: *Offended* Eh-Wha-?! Who do you think you're and talk in such a-?!

Ionas (Shadow): I am your "good" friend Ion.

Yui: ... *Real Surprised* What?!

Haruna: *Real Surprised* Ion?!

Saki: *Real Surprised* The brute?!

Risa: *Sweat Drop* I did not see that coming.

Yui: *Incredibly Confused* B-But h-how...? Why...?

Ionas (Shadow): Why all this? To put it simply, this is my true self, and I was fooling everyone all this time for my personal pleasure. *Amused Chuckle*

Yui: *Disbelief* ... This can't...

Risa: *Sweat Drop* He-Hey now, you-you're just joking around... Right?

Ionas (Shadow): *Amused* Oh no, my friend. What I say is the truth. Trust me on that.

Haruna: *Sweat Drop* But... Why you brought us here? What you plan to do with us all?

Ionas (Shadow): *Thinking* How to say it, how to say it...* I want to f*ck you all. A lot. Literally.

All Four: *Shocking Realization* ...

Ionas (Shadow): Now that you're here, I'll have to decide-

Saki upset grabs the cage's bars in front of her, and gets her face closer.

Saki: *Upset* I will not just give myself to you! My body is only for-!

Before she finish that sentence, Ion reaches fast with one hand Saki's neck inside the cage, choking her, while also lifting her off the floor.

Ionas (Shadow): *Serious* Your body is for whatever reason "I" want it to be! If I want it to be a pillow, it will be a pillow. If I want it to be a toilet, it will BE a bloody toilet! And if I simply want it to be the "known" dumpster, you can bet your life that it will BE, that f*cking dumpster!

By saying the last one, he throws her back, making her fall in Yui's arms. After that, Saki looks at him in shock for a moment. She then turns around, places her face onto Yui's chest, and starts to weep and cry almost silently, with Yui trying to comfort her.

Ionas (Shadow): *Ecstatic* Woo~. That abusive act sure was arousing!* Anyway, as I was saying, I will now have to decide in what way I will treat each of you from now on.

He thinks about it for a few seconds.

Ionas (Shadow): *To Saki* To you, I will be abusive, obviously. *To Risa* To you, I will be rough. *To Yui* To you I will be EVEN more rough! *To Haruna* And as for you, my shy little flower... *Ominously Chuckling, With Saliva Dripping From Below The Mask*

Haruna: *Creeped out*

Ionas (Shadow): *Inhales* Let's just say that they will have to invent a new word about how F*CKED you are.

All four of them were now scared and disturbed by Ion. And he liked that.

Ionas (Shadow): *Ominous Chuckling That Slowly Turns Into Laughing*

Saki: *While Weeping* Someone please save us...

That moment, an explosion occurs close to the Manta's head, drawing everyone's attention. For a brief moment, a blackish barrier can be seen around the giant Manta, showing that it is protected by some sort of force field. Ion looks around the sky, and notices a small devilukean-type spaceship flying around the giant Manta at high speed.

Yui: *Sweat Drop* Wha-Wha-What is this now?!

The spaceship starts to launch more missiles at the Manta, only to be blocked by the force field again.

Ionas (Shadow): Oh, what's this? Someone wants to play aerial combat? *Excited* Don't mind if I do!

By saying that, Ion goes fast at the top of the Manta's head, where a ship's wheel emerges from it and in front of him, and grabbing it just as soon.

{The Music "Brave Heart" From "Rogue Galaxy" Starts To Play In The Area}

Ionas (Shadow): *Enthusiastic* He-he~!

Using it, he control the giant Manta and begins to follow the spaceship with the same speed, and starts to shoot at it with two cannons that emerge from the sides of the Manta's head. The girls in the cage were shocked by the giant Manta's sudden crazy speed, considering it was moving so slowly all this time. At the same time, Ion was laughing like a maniac, enjoying the pursuit. The devilukean spaceship was dodging the cannonballs so far, while also returning fire. The whole thing kept going for a few minutes, with no actual winner so far.

Ionas (Shadow):You sure are good!*Cocky* But can you do this?

By steering fast the wheel, the giant Manta begins to roll fast sideward while on air, getting closer and closer to reaching the spaceship that way, and terrifying the girls onboard due to its spins at the same time. When the Manta is about to hit the spaceship with one of its gigantic thick fins, the spaceship avoids it the last moment by going upward. The Manta stops almost immediately, as Ion aims carefully with the two cannons, before shooting and managing to hit the spaceship with explosive cannonballs.

Ionas (Shadow): *Triumphant* Yeah! *Shows The Middle Finger At It* F*ck you, whatever ethnicity you're!

The spaceship is now on fire, and begins to fall toward the ground.

{The Music Stops Playing In The Area}

Ionas (Shadow): *As He Sees The Spaceship Falling* What a disappointment.

*The Giant Manta Flies At Slow Speed Again*

Ionas (Shadow): Well, back to the gather- *Notices Incoming Figure From Above*

Ion leaps instantly backward, avoiding the tall figure's plunging attack, and who plunges his sword into the Manta's head instead.

*The Giant Manta Didn't Feel A Thing*

Ion lands close to the women's cage, and looks at him.

Ionas (Shadow): Well, well, look who's here.

It was Zastin, in his usual armor, and with his energy sword in both hands. Zastin looks at him with a serious expression on his face, as he removes the sword from the Manta's head.

Saki: *Tearful Relief* ... Zastin-Sama! You came to save me!

The Other Girls: *Clear Throats In Annoyance*

Saki: *Sweat Drop* Em- I-I mean "us", obviously.

Ionas (Shadow): So, Zastin, what good wind brings you here?

Zastin: *Serious* I don't know what happened with Golden Darkness, but after coming back to my senses, I saw this giant creature at the sky and soldiers I have never seen before, laying waste onto this town and its inhabitants. I don't know who you are, but you endanger Lala-Sama's and her sisters' lives and stay with that action of yours, not to mention the lives you have taken already.

Zastin points his sword at him.

Zastin: *Serious* In the name of his majesty and the royal family of Deviluke, I shall bring you down!

Saki: *Fangirling On The Inside* (He is so cool, I love him!)

Zastin: (Before leaving, I made sure that Lala-Sama is moved in a secret location, and protected by Maul and Smutts. She should be fine for now while I'm away. Need to take care of this dangerous person and soon, before he brings more ruin to this town.)

Ion starts clapping his hands fast after hearing Zastin's speech.

Ionas (Shadow): *Seemingly Amazed* Bravo! Now THAT is what I call serious, heroic, dutiful speech! I mean it!

Zastin: *Notices* Wait... That voice... And that face depicted on the mask...

Zastin says, pointing out that the mask is similar to Ion's usual face.

Zastin: *Realization* Are you-?

Ionas (Shadow): *Excited* That's right! It's me, Ion!

Zastin: *Sweat Drop* YOU are the cause of all this?!

Ionas (Shadow): Quite the twist, isn't it? *Amused Giggle*

Zastin: *Highly Confused* But... Why? Were you not-?

Ionas (Shadow): Nope! All a trick.

Zastin: *Highly Confused* ... I don't understand...

Ionas (Shadow): What you can't understand exactly? All that "being nice and stuff toward you all", was nothing more than me just trying to make you all accept me. Then all I had to do is wait. Wait for the moment I had enough power to take everything I ever wanted under MY f*cking control, without needing to face too much resistance! And the time, as you can already understand, is now.

Zastin was in disbelief. "The one I thought as ally and friend, all this time was nothing more than a double-crossing enemy" he says in his thoughts. His grip tightens on his sword's handle from anger.

Zastin: *Lowers His Head In Frustration* I can't believe how much of a fool I was... For not noticing your true intentions sooner...

Ionas (Shadow): Aw~, don't be so mad about it. I'm good at pretending after all.

Zastin raises his head, and looks at the women inside the cage behind of Ion.

Zastin: ... *Serious* What are you planning to do with the women in the cage.

Saki: *Distressed* That monster wants to violate us, Zastin-Sama!

Ion that moment stomps, and places his foot at the cage's bars, startling the girls inside.

Ionas (Shadow): *To Saki* *Excitedly Serious* And you better believe that I will!

Zastin: *Frustrated* You b*stard, to think you would fall so low-!

Ionas (Shadow): *Serious* The one who has fallen low is you, my friend! Don't pretend that you don't know how Lala and the rest view you. To them you're nothing more than a joke!

Zastin: *Surprised* Wha-* That's not tru-

Ionas (Shadow): *Serious* It is, and we both know it! The only reason they are saying nothing to your king, is because they pity you. You swore to protect them, even helped them with trivial stuff, and THAT'S how they thank you?!

Zastin: *Disbelief* No... That's-

Ionas (Shadow): *Serious* Who cares about what they think, I say! And that king of yours, what he did for you? He put you in charge of protecting a bunch of spoiled brats! Making you a literal babysitter, for who knows how long! You could be at some planet right now, fighting in his name for glory, but NO~, apparently you are not THAT important for him to do you such favor.

Zastin: *Sweat Drop* Protecting his majesty's children is-

Ionas (Shadow): *Serious* It's bullsh*t and you know it! He could always put some maids and a bunch of guards to do the job! But the cheap son of a b*tch chose YOU instead, to save money. You are the number one swordsman in your entire race for crying out loud! He is supposed to treat you better than that, considering all the trouble you're going through for them.

Zastin: ...

Ionas (Shadow): Tell you what. I am powerful. I will soon be the one and only ruler of this planet. And I will be MORE than happy to have someone like you in my army.

Zastin: What?

Ionas (Shadow): In fact, I will make you second in command to all this. And also, if you decide to join me, I will also let you have whatever girl your heart desires. Even princess Lala herself.

Zastin: *Shocked* ...

Ionas (Shadow): Just think about it. After being under her for so long, you must be tired and frustrated by her childish behavior. When I give her to you, to do whatever you want with her- EVERYTHING you want to do with her... It will pretty much be like your long deserved payment, for all your undesirable trouble all this time. *Gleeful* She will be your very own personal sl*t to enjoy.* So, what do you-?

Zastin: *Offended* You dare talk about Lala-Sama in such manner?!

Ionas (Shadow): ...

Zastin: *Serious* Even if what you say about the others is true, I would never turn my back on Deviluke. On my king. *Raises Sword* I swore to protect the royal family, and that's what I will do!

Ionas (Shadow): ... You probably think that I will not keep my word. To show you how generous I truly am, I will give you one right now as payment in advance.

By saying that, he grabs Risa by the arm, and pulls her out of the cage.

Ionas: Her name is "b*tch". I own her. And she is now officialy your property.

Ion throws her straight at Zastin, who catches her the moment she falls onto him. Both of them were confused while looking at each other and Ion.

Ionas (Shadow): ... *Shocking Realization* Holy sh*t, I gave away the arousing one! Zastin, I'm gonna need my b*tch back. Here, I'll give you this one instead.

Ion grabs Saki by the arm, and pulls her out of the cage as well.

Ionas (Shadow): I don't know why, but I feel like you will have quite the affinity with this one.

Saki: *Flustered And Having A Hard Time To Respond* (I Have SO many mixed feelings about this!)

Zastin moves Risa behind him and points his sword at Ion once again.

Zastin: Using and referring to women like they are mere objects... *Aversion* You're truly a despicable one.

Ionas (Shadow): *Sigh* Enough with this.

Ion pushes Saki inside the cage again, and then Risa is suddenly pulled inside the Manta's skin, to Zastin's surprise, only for her to appear from below inside the cage again too.

Risa: *Confused* What the-?

Ionas (Shadow): No one can say that I didn't try. *Shrugs* Oh well.

Ion crouches, and places his hand inside the Manta's skin, which just passes through as if the skin was not even there. Then, he pulls out something that looks like a big grey sword, same size as the one Zastin holds, and stands up.

*The Filled With Women Cage Quickly Submerges Inside The Giant Manta's Back*

Zastin: *Surprised* Wha-?

{The Music "Fight and Away OST" From "Kingdom Hearts 358 2 Days" Starts To Play In The Area}

Ionas (Shadow): I guess you can always entertain me, *Real Gleeful* with your DEATH!

By saying that last one, Ion rushes forward, and with both hands swings his sword downward at Zastin, who blocks the strike with his own sword, locking their blades together.

Ionas (Shadow): Let's see just how great you're, "top" Swordsman!

Ion grabs Zastin by one of his arms as he says that, swings him behind him and throws him at the other side. With a roll through the air, the second lands with his feet at the Manta's middle, and sees Ion approaching fast with his sword above his head. Zastin once again blocks the attack, and they both then proceed into an epic swordfight. Fast strikes and blocks come and go from both opponents, but nothing that crazy so far. After a few more swings, they lock their blades together once more.

Zastin: *Irritated* I hate to admit it, but you're good with the sword.

Ionas (Shadow): *Excited* Wait till you see the next one!

Zastin: Eh?

Ion kicks Zastin in the torso, pushing him back a few feet by that way. The first then pulls his sword's handle, with both hands and at opposite sides, breaking it into two thinner, but still big swords. Zastin was quite surprised.

Ionas (Shadow): *Enthusiastic* Ready or not, here I come again!

Ion rushes at Zastin, with both proceeding into another epic swordfight. This time, Ion's attacks are faster, and uses even kicks in combinations, changing his movements and fighting style in general. Zastin is on the defensive, receiving a few kicks, one including to his face, but quickly adapts to Ion's new way of fighting, bringing them once more into an even fight. With a push from both their weapons, they gain some distance from one another.

Zastin: So, you know more than one fighting style.

Ionas (Shadow): *Enthusiastic* Oh, I am just getting started!

Ion brings his two swords together, and both of them reform into a whip sword. Zastin prepares himself for Ion's next attack.

Ionas (Shadow): *Sinister Giggling* Let's see if we can flay that face of yours!

Ion leaps toward Zastin, and both proceed with their fight once again. Ion this time mostly jumps around, while trying to slice Zastin in the face with his whip sword like he mentioned. The second is able to defend himself against the first's attempts so far, since he is mostly focused on striking the face now. Even when the first was able to make him fall down with a sweep kick, the second was able to move fast and avoid his next strike, while also finding the chance to strike with his sword at the first's armor, at the breastplate area, pushing him back with the force of the attack, and damaging his armor with a diagonal slash as a result. Ion looks at his damaged armor.

Zastin: *Smirk* It seems that you overestimated your capabilities.

Ionas (Shadow): It seems that you underestimate my creativity.

Ion places the whip sword on his back, and turns it into a metalic case that contains multiple labrys [Double Axe] within. He then starts throwing fast one axe after another at Zastin nonstop. The second either dodges or blocks the incoming axes, while trying to close the distance between them. When he finally gets close and attempts to strike, the first quickly crouches, avoiding the strike, and then leaps between the second's legs, while striking once both of them with two of his axes, and damaging his leg armor as he passes through.

Zastin: *Frustrated* (Damn it!)

Zastin attempts to strike Ion fast again, but he leaps the last moment once more away, landing at the Manta's head. Once there, he points at him, and the two cannons turn around and start shooting toward the second with their explosive rounds. One after another, the second is able to dodge the incoming projectiles, and as he moves forward, he jumps high into the sky, and as he drops down toward the first's location, he prepares to strike him with his sword. The first quickly submerges inside the Manta, and the second strikes the two cannons instead, destroying them. Zastin was looking around for Ion.

Zastin: *Serious* Come out, you coward! You said you want a fight!

Ionas (Shadow): *At A Distance Behind* And I still do!

Zastin turns around, and surprised sees Ion on top of a black horse, and carrying in one hand a halberd, approaching fast. Seeing that, the first rushes toward him, engaging into a fight with each other once more. The second fights while on horseback, controlling his horse's movements expertly, while delivering heavy strikes with his Halberd. The first was having trouble defending, since other than the heavy strikes, he had to be careful of the horse itself. Not able to anticipate it, the first is thrown down after receiving a headbutt from the horse, making him drop his sword away as a result, and with the said horse immediately after lifting its upper half upward, before stomping the first onto his chest.

Zastin: *In Pain* OW!

The horse remains on top of Zastin, keeping him down with its weight.

Ionas (Shadow): Looks like this is it. I'll admit though, you put quite a nice fight.

Ion raises his halberd on the air, and prepares to thrust it at Zastin, who grabs the the horse's front legs, trying to move it off him.

Ionas (Shadow): I will miss you.

The moment Ion attempts to strike, Zastin suddenly pushes the horse by its front legs, raising it off him a little, and making Ion miss his target. Immediately after, while shouting, the second pushes with his hands the horse while getting up, and throws it down along with the first, resulting the heavy animal to fall on top of him. The second turns back fast to grab his fallen weapon, while the horse can be seen melting on top of the first completely. Ion gets up and rushes to Zastin, who just grabbed his sword from the Manta's surface. The first attempts to thrust his weapon at him, but the second parries it fast with his sword, and then quickly strikes Ion's face with a punch, throwing him away, and down face first onto the Manta's surface, while his golden mask along with his halberd can be seen falling from the sky and away because of the previous strike.

{The Music Stops Playing In The Area}

Zastin: *Cheeky But Serious* You were right. You missed.

Ionas (Shadow): *Amused Chuckling* Ok, that was a good one. You even got the mask off my face.

Ion gets up and turns around, looking at him now unmasked. The moment Zastin looks at his face, he is shocked at its view.

Ionas (Shadow): *Grin* So tell me, my friend... *Excited* How do I look?

Both Ion's eyes, not just his pupils, but the white of his eyes as well, were completely black. And all of his teeth were now sharp like a bear trap. Pretty much like Kremant's teeth, but more natural.

Ionas (Shadow): *Grin* Aren't I just beautiful?

Zastin: *Disturbed* If by that you mean more twisted than I remember, then yes.* *Serious* So, even your face was fake!

Ionas (Shadow): *Big Grin* Yes, but the things I'm gonna do to your precious princesses, and to the rest of the world obviously, will not be fake. *Ecstatic* Trust me, it's gonna be quite the f*cking! *Ominous Giggling*

Zastin: ... *Serious* There is no doubt now. *Raises Sword* I will not let you walk away from this pla-

Before Zastin finishes that sentence, Yami lands a few meters behind of Ion, which both men notice.

Yami: Those soldiers were quite the bother.

Zastin: *Surprised* Golden Darkness!

Ionas (Shadow): *Ecstatic* Oh~, *Drooling* yummy!

Yami: *Disgusted* ... You're far worse than I remember.

Zastin: *Notices* Wait...

Zastin notices her usual clothes.

Zastin: Your clothing... *Sweat Drop* Could that mean-?

Yami: Yes. They helped me come back to my senses. Sorry for all the trouble.

Zastin: *Sweat Drop* But, how did they-?

Yami: No time to explain. We need to help Ion.

Zastin: *Real Surprised* Help him?!

Yami: He is under Kremant's control. He doesn't act this way on purpose.

Zastin: *Sweat Drop* R-Really? So, that means he was lying about this being his true self all this time?

Ionas (Shadow): *Smile* Lying? Me?! *Amused* Ha! *To Zastin* Talk about crazy talk, can you believe that girl?

Yami: *To Zastin* There is no point talking to him. He is a completely different person.

Zastin: I see. (Makes me happy to know he was never really a bad person.) By the way, where are the others?

Yami: They help with the town's evacuation.

Ionas (Shadow): *Realization* *Raises An Eyebrow* Excuse me, wha-?

Zastin: Good thinking. That way no more people will be endangered by all this. So, about Ion, how do we-?

Yami turns both her hands into big metalic gauntlets, and the rest of her hair into multiple fists.

Yami: We knock him unconscious.

Zastin: *Sweat Drop* O-Ok. (Sounds simple enough, I guess.)* In any case I'll-

Ionas (Shadow): Sounds fun, but I'll pass for now.

Zastin: Eh?

Ion submerges inside the giant Manta.

Zastin: *Frustrated* Damn it, not again!* *To Yami* *Alarmed* Be careful, he can appear from anywhere in this sur-!

Ion that moment emerges from the same place, holding in both his hands two chains that each are connected to two ball-like cages. Inside the first is Saki and Risa, and on the second is Haruna with Yui.

Saki: *Grunts* Finally some ligh- *Screams From Horror The Moment She Notices Ion's Revealed And Grinning Face*

The other three are equally shocked by Ion's creepy new face.

Ionas (Shadow): *Grin* I know! I'm so beautiful I even scare myself! *To Yami And Zastin* Anyway, I hate losing such sweet bodies, and delicious characters, *Shrugs* but what can we do? It's necessary.

"What is he planning to do" they all think.

Ionas (Shadow): *Grin* As I said, I will have my fun first with the rest of the population, and THEN come for the rest of you. *Wink* Let's not be greedy for attention now, you two.

Ion jumps high into the sky, and begins to spin himself around along with the two cages. He then throws them both away in different directions.

*The Four Girls Scream As They Fall From The Sky*

Zastin: *Sweat Drop* The girls!

Ionas (Shadow): *Lands Onto The Manta's Head* Follow ME, or save your friends' friends! Your choice! *Ominous Laughing*

Not having much of a choice, Yami flies fast toward Haruna's and Yui's cage, while Zastin jumps off the giant Manta, going for Saki's and Risa's cage, in an attempt to save them all.

Ionas (Shadow): *Grin* I knew they will not resist the urge. *Chuckle* *Suddenly Serious* But seriously, there is no way in HELL I'm letting the others leave so soon.

He points with his finger toward the sky, and the giant Manta starts flying upward. Ion then grabs from inside the beast the big cage that has the women he caught so far, and lets himself fall off the beast along with it, and going down at the town.

Ionas (Shadow): *Real Excited* This is gonna be so awesome!

After the giant Manta reaches a certain point at the sky, it blows up in a huge exlposion, which releases a blackish but transparent aura that begins to cover fast a huge part of the town like a dome.

{END OF PART 1}