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.

22. TLRS-Episode 21-Shadow Unleashed Part 2

{WARNING! THE FOLLOWING EPISODE CONTAINS GREAT SCENES OF VIOLENCE, MUTILATIONS, AMPUTATIONS, HARSH AND DIRTY LANGUAGE OF HIGH DEGREE, AND DISTURBINGLY VIOLENT SCENES IN GENERAL! WATCH AT YOUR OWN ACCORD AND ENJOY!}

~Somewhere In The Town~

Random Citizen: *Alarmed* They are coming!

Five horsemen are approaching the many citizen who are gathered together. Out of nowhere, huge plant vines come out of the ground, grab all the horsemen, and squeeze them to death, with them turning into dust after a few seconds. Momo, the one responsible for the plant vines, was in front of the citizens, with her D-Dial on hand.

Momo: *Serious* All clear, we should move on!

Random Citizen: *Sweat Drop* Right!

{Momo's POV}

I was escorting a number of at least fiftee people, wanting to get them out of the town as soon as possible. I wish I could have saved them all, but... *Looks Behind At The People* Sadness was in all of them. They lost their houses, their peace, and some even their friends and families in front of their very own eyes. Ion's horsemen were everywhere, and I could only save a handful of people each time from them.

Momo: *Feeling Awful For Not Being Able To Do More For The People*

Yami's Darkness would have been extremely dangerous if not for that bug in her program. It might actually have been the end of the world. But that... Ion's Shadow... Is a different story. If Yami's plan is not enough to end all this... We might have to kill Ion in the end, if we are to save the rest of the world from suffering the same fate as this town. Nana... I'm sorry if things go that way... I really hope we will not have to in the end.

Random Citizen: Momo is your name, right?

Momo: *Snaps Back To Reality* Huh? Oh, yeah.

Random Citizen: Well, Momo, I just want to thank you for all you have done for us. If not for you, we would be dead by now. *Smile* I speak for everyone when I say, "we thank you from the bottom of our heart".

Momo: *Looks At Everyone Again* ...

Hope was in everyones faces now, as they were looking at me. That's right, some may have been lost, but there is still hope! No matter how grim things may look now, there is always a way in the end. I must have faith in Yami and everyone else.

Momo: *Determined*

I should focus for now on helping these people get away from this nightmare.

Momo: *Smile* I will get you away from here soon. You have my wo-

Ionas (Shadow): *From Afar* Thank you for gathering them all together for me, my sweet!

Momo: *Shocking Realization*

After hearing his voice, white spikes suddenly emerge forcefully from the ground, impaling ten people from below and lifting them along with them off the ground, with their screams of pain and horror reaching deafening levels. Everyone around them were horrified by the whole thing, with most of them panicking and running away past me to where we were going.

Momo: *Alarmed* No, wai-!

Suddenly, while the people were running, they fall down, as if they hit themselves onto something, and then is when they realize there is a transparent barrier blocking their way, with their panic growing stronger as they start to pointlessly hit the barrier with their bodies to escape.

Momo: *Concerned* A barrier? Don't tell me Kremant is...

At the moment, the seven people who didn't run like the others, come behind me, hoping for protection. After some seconds, the screamings of the impaled people quiten down, as life leaves their bodies. Those poor people...

*A Known Figure Approaches Walking From The Road Behind*

Then is when I see him approaching, from where we were coming, as if he was following us all along. After approaching enough, he stops a few meters away of us, and then is that I notice his changed, creepy face.

Momo: *Shocked* ...

Ionas (Shadow): For that... *Big Smile* I shall make you mistress of my concubines. *Sinister Grin*

Why is he here?! Wasn't Yami dealing with him?! Don't tell me he...

Ionas (Shadow): *Delighted* Ah~, look at them... Hitting themselves against my town barrier.

Talking about the people who still try pointlessly to break through the- Wait, it's HIS he said?!

Ionas (Shadow): *Smile* Like scared sheeps, following another scared sheep. *Amused* So funny.

Ion starts walking toward us again.

Random Citizen: *Sweat Drop* Quick, do something with your magical plants!

Momo: *Sweat Drop* R-Right!

Losing no time correcting him about that, I use my D-Dial to summon a few big vines, which I send forward to restrain him. Just when they were about to get him, Ion jumps high into the air, and then by using his palms, he force pushes himself toward the people close to the barrier, yelling in excitement while diving into the group.

Momo: *Shocked*

Losing no time after landing, which causes the people around him to start running away after seeing him, he begins chopping, slashing, and crushing those closer to him, either with his forearm blade, or by simply punching, kicking, or twisting their limbs hard enough to break their bones.

Momo: *Alarmed* No!

I guide the plant vines toward him once again, wanting to stop his movements, but every time one vine attempts to grab him, he just jumps away, while continuing his brutal killing. While at it, he launches from his palms a sticky web-like substance that sticks three girls at the same time onto the ground with it.

Random Citizen: *Disturbed* My... God...

Those who were behind me were really disturbed and horrified by what they were witnessing, and I can't blame them. At the moment, some of the surviving people run past us, going back to where we came from, in an attempt to save their lives. At the moment, Ion falls on top of the last person who just turned around and attempted to run, forcing him down onto the ground. Ion grabs the guy's head with one hand, and begins hitting the ground with his face, turning it slowly and painfully into a bloody mess.

Momo And The Citizens: *Shockingly Horrified By What They Witness*

Ionas (Shadow): *Gleefully Keeps On Making His Victim's Face Into Bloody Massed Potatoes*

Staying in one place, the plant vines are about to grab Ion finally. But just before they even touch him, four bone-vines appear from his back, which forcefully spin themselves around, and turning my plant vines into pieces. After hitting the victim's face a few more times, Ion then bites the victim at the back of his neck, and tears apart a big piece from it as the guy screams in agony. Ion holds the flesh in his sharp teeth, while looking at us, with his armor and face covered in blood, and the guy below him dying slowly from bleeding.

Ionas (Shadow): *Grinning Widely While Holding The Piece Of Flesh In His Teeth*

Momo: *Greatly Disturbed* That kind of violence... Shouldn't exist...

Ion then spits the flesh straight at the guy next to me, which ends up in his face.

Random Citizen: *Shocked* ... *Panic* RUN FOR YOUR LI~VES!

By saying that, the ones remaining begin to run away in panic, and scatter deep in the town. All but one girl, that was frozen down onto the ground from fear a few meters behind me. She seems to be a year younger than me.

Ionas (Shadow): *Creepily Tilts His Head And Smiles* I spot a not pretty enough face~!

Ion lets the dead guy's head, gets up, and starts to walk toward us, grinning like a maniac while looking at the scared girl behind me.

Momo: *Serious* I will not le-!

I was about to use the D-Dial to summon another plant to stop him, but the moment I'm about to, he launches fast from one of his palm a sticky web at me, hitting my arm, which makes me drop my D-Dial down, and pushing me down, sticking my arm onto the ground as a result.

Momo: *Alarmed* No! *Struggles To Unstick Her Arm From The Ground*

This sticky substance is too strong for me to break!

*Ion Slowly Approaches*

Ion keeps on approaching, while cracking his knuckles, as if to further show his intentions. The girl remains frozen from fear onto the ground. Thinking about it, even if she runs, there is no way she can outrun Ion. I try to reach my D-Dial with my free hand.

Momo: *Struggles To Reach* It's... Too far...!

*Ion Gets Closer And Closer*

Not good! There is no way I can reach it in time!

Momo: *Sweat Drop* Ion, wait!

I say that while making a stop sign with my free hand toward him, making him stop just before he attempts to go around me, gaining his attention for the moment.

Momo: *Serious* Ion, you have to listen to me! This is all wrong!

Ion turns his gaze toward the girl again, but stays in place.

Momo: *Serious* No, don't take your attention off me, I'm speaking to you! *Sweat Drop* Can't you see what you're doing?! All that killing and destruction is not what you want! You're letting Kremant use you as if you were his plaything!

Ionas (Shadow): *Keeps On Staring At The Girl Behind* ...

Momo: *Serious* Please, Ion, you have to break free from his control before everything we've known is lost. I don't believe that all those times with us meant nothing to you! What would your family think of you if they saw you like this. Your friends... What Nana might be thinking of you right now! Is this really what you want? For her to hate you?!

Ionas (Shadow): *Starts Shedding Tears* ...

Are those tears I see on his face?! Did I really get through to him?

Ionas (Shadow): *Big Grin* *Sinister Chuckling That Slowly Turns Into Laughing*

Momo: *Sweat Drop* Eh?

Wh-Why is he suddenly laughing while tearing? I notice that moment that the three girls who are stuck onto the ground behind him look at us with really disturbed expressions on their faces. Wait... Remembering he was still looking at the girl behind me, I slowly turn my head around to look at her.

Momo: *Shocked Beyond Belief*

[ABSOLUTE WARNING ON THE DESCRIPTION BELOW! NOT FOR THE FAINT-HEARTED!]

*The girl was now a standing scarecrow-like, mutilated corpse. From the ground below, one of Ion's bone-vines can be seen, which went forcefully inside the lower part of her body, and her limbs along with her head are now separated from the rest of the body, showing they were forcefully ripped by the vines from the inside, and being hold only by the expanded bone-vine at a short distance from it. Her stomach was sliced open, with her insides having been spilled on the ground below her. Her mouth was covered by the same bone-vine, making her unable to scream at all, as all that was happening to her. Just by looking at her filled with tears now dead expression, I can tell her death was not quick. Her last moments were agonizing.*

Momo: *Way Too Disturbed* ... This... Is too...

*Momo Tries To Hold it In, But Ends Up Vomiting Onto The Ground Beside Her, While Ion Laughs Like A Maniac At His Work*

Ionas (Shadow): *Laughs Loudly Like A Maniac While Tearing* Oh boy, I'm actually crying! *Keeps On Laughing*

As I was trying to pull myself together after vomiting because of that brutally cruel display, I could understand one thing for sure. The Ion we knew... Is gone...

Ionas (Shadow): *Starts To Gasp After Laughing So Much* ... Ha~... That... *Pleased* Was simply amazing.

He turns his head fast and looks straight at me with wide opened eyes.

Momo: *Startled*

Ionas (Shadow): *Big Grin*

Momo: *Trembling From Fear*

He is a monster... A total monster!

Ionas (Shadow): Say, I was not really paying attention to what you were saying. Was focusing on my delightful art. *Smile* Could you repeat that again for me, sweetie?

What is the point of talking to that thing...

Ionas (Shadow): No? Eh, guess it wasn't that important then. Anyway... I must say all that was quite the ECSTASY for me. I feel like my armor down there is going to break from the pressure! *Giggling*

I must get out of here. Get as far away as I can from him!

Momo: *Desperately Struggling To Unstick Her Hand From The Ground*

Ionas (Shadow): *Delighted* Oh~, I really like how energetic you are. How you move in place so desperately. Like a fish inside the fisherman's net... *Drooling*

I stop trying as soon as I see the way he looks at me.

Momo: *Really Creeped Out*

Ionas (Shadow): *Wipes His Mouth* My, you really know how to bring out the ecstasy in a man. *Seductive* Looking at you as you are, makes me want to do things to you so bad. Spread those legs... Rip that piece of garment off your delicious "mouth"... "Do you" under that bloody totem I just made... *Gasping In Ecstasy*

Ion brings both his hands forward, and slowly approaches me with ill intentions, with a face full of perversion.

Momo: *Shockingly Horrified* No... Stay away... Do... Don't touch me...

Someone... Please save me... Don't let him... Don't let him do this to me... Rito-san... I need you...

*He Is About To Touch Her Legs*

Momo: *Shockingly Horrified* No... Don't...

*He Grabs One Of Her Legs*

Momo: *Panic* NO!

I try to shake the leg he grabbed off his grip, while kicking him in the face with the other.

Momo: *Panic* Stay away from me! You can't do this!

That moment, the leg I was using to kick him is stopped, and grabbed by a shadow-vine that comes out from his neck.

Momo: *Panic* Wha-

He brings that leg of mine close to his face, before smooching it. Then immediately after, he spreads both my legs wide open with his hand and said vine, revealing my panties below the skirt.

Momo: *Panic* Ah! No, No! Please!

I try to remove my legs from his grasps, but he is too strong for me. He moves his free hand in, grabs my panties, and starts pulling them in such way, that their line rubs itself between my...

Momo: *Blushing, Struggling, And Scared* Don't... Do that...

Ionas (Shadow): *Seductive* Just imagine all the delightful things we can do in only just a few moments.* And you know what's better? There is actually no one around that can come to stop this. *Intimidatingly Seductive* We are absolutely alone, you and I. *Really Big Smile* And I... I will enjoy every. Single. Moment. With you. *Ominous Chuckling*

This... This...

Momo: *Tears Start To Fall, As She Quietly Cries From Despair*

Ionas (Shadow): Hm? What's this? *Excited Smile* Are you really crying now?

Momo: *Looks Away While Crying Quietly*

Ionas (Shadow): You really do!My goodness... *Pleased* And I thought you can't make this even more ecstatic for me! You're a natural!

I can't do this anymore... I just hope... I just hope he will make this quick... Rito-San... I'm sorry...

Ionas (Shadow): ... *Annoyed* Tsk!

Just when I thought he will rip my panties off and violate me, he lets them, lets my legs free, with the shadow-vine vanishing, and gets up.

Momo: *Confused* Eh?

He then snaps his fingers, and three horsemen emerge from the ground, who then go straight at the three girls who were still trapped by the sticky web, grab them, and take them away who knows where.

Ionas (Shadow): It would be fun to do it right here, right now. Really. But...

He starts to walk away, going past me, and stops right in front of his ripped apart victim.

Ionas: (Shadow): I promised to myself that I will have fun with all the others first, and THEN with you, the special ones. It's like eating. You want to have the best bits for the end. I'm sure you understand.

...

Ionas (Shadow): *Smile* Anyway, it was nice spending some quality time with you, but it's time to finally continue-

He gets into stance, and one blade emerges from his forearm.

Ionas (Shadow): *Ecstatic* The slaughtering and concubine-hunting!

*Ion Begins To Scream As He Sprints Away In Search For The Surviving People*

...

Momo: *Gets Into Fetal Position, And Continues To Weep* That was so scary... I thought he was really gonna... *Keeps On Weeping, Traumatized By The Experience*

...

Momo: No... *Starts To Get A Hold On Herself, While Wiping Her Tears Away* I can't afford crying now. I must...

I start trying to reach the D-Dial with my free hand.

Momo: *Desperately Struggles To Reach* I must call Nana and the others... Warn them of this...

~Somewhere Else In The Town~

{Author's POV}

Nana was leading a group of over sixty people away from the town, with her D-Dial on hand, prepared in case of incoming danger.

Nana: *Serious* Come on, everyone, move! The horsemen might be nearby! We don't have time for-!

*Phone Ringing*

Nana: Huh?

She looks at her D-Dial, and sees Momo's name in it.

Nana: Momo? *Accepts The Call* Hey, Momo, is everything-?

Momo (On Phone): Ion was here.

Nana: *Sweat Drop* Eh?

Momo (On Phone): He... He killed most of the people I was escorting, and abducted three girls.

Nana: *Shocked* No...

Momo (On Phone): He is hunting down as we speak the remaining survivors... He cast a barrier around the town, said so himself... He trapped us inside...

Nana: *Sweat Drop* (This is really bad!) Wait, how did you get away from him?

Momo was not answering.

Nana: *Sweat Drop* Mo-?

Momo (On Phone): *Starts To Cry In A Quiet Manner*

Nana: *Disbelief* ... Did he...?

Momo (On Phone): *Whimpering* No... He didn't... But he was going to... He really was going to... He pinned me down onto the ground... I was at his mercy and alone... If he didn't suddenly decide to hunt down the others... *Continues Crying Quietly*

Nana: *Sweat Drop* M-Momo, get a hold on yourself! I... I'm coming over there, wait for me! *Closes Phone* *Grunts* I can't believe what is going on!

A woman in her thirties with a ten year old child approaches Nana.

Mother Survivor: Is everything ok?

Nana: *Sweat Drop* Could have been better...

Nana looks around her fast, and spots a big building with an open door.

Nana: *Serious* Alright everyone, listen up and don't make a fuss! Right now there is a barrier that prevents us from leaving the town! BUT before anyone starts panicking, I have a way to keep you all safe! See that building over there? Get inside! Now!

The people get inside the building, a little clumsily, but without issues. When the last one steps inside, Nana gets in front of the entrance and looks at them all.

Nana: *Serious* Good. Now whatever you do, don't get outside the building, and make sure the door remains shut. You will be safe in here for now.

Mother Survivor: *Sweat Drop* You will come back for us? Right?

She says as she looks at Nana with a worried expression, and with the child beside her having a saddened face.

Nana: *Smile* You don't have to worry. I'll be back soon. I promise.

By saying that, she closes the door.

Nana: Alright.

Nana uses her phone, which summons a pinkish-white furball with small bird-feet.

Nana: *Serious* Alright, Marimotta, we need to find where Momo is. She needs us and soon.

The small creature smells the air, and begins to run toward a location, with Nana following from behind.

Nana: Good job, Marimotta! (Don't worry, sister, we'll be there soon.)

And with that, Nana leaves the area. Meanwhile inside the building, a lot of chatters can be heard, as the people share their worries with one another. At the moment, the mom tries to calm her child.

Child Survivor: *Scared* Will she really come back for us, mom? I'm scared...

Mother Survivor: *Smile* Yes, yes she will! Don't worry my child. She and her friends will deal with what is going on in the town, and come tell us that everything is over soon.

Child Survivor: Then we can go back home?

Mother Survivor: *Smile* Then we can go back ho-

*Knock*Knock*Knock*

Three fast knocks were heard from the door, and the entire room quietened.

?: *From Outside* Excuse me, anybody inside? A pink-haired girl told me to come here if I want shelter. *While Whimpering* Please, I don't wanna die out here...*

After that, the unknown man behind the door kept whimpering like a baby. The people inside chat about it for a moment, and decided he is genuine. They send a boy to the door.

Boy Survivor: I'm going to open the door for you, sir.

?: *From Outside* Wai-Wai-Wai-Wait! Before you open the door for me... Do you mind if I say a "knock knock" joke?

Boy Survivor: *Confused* A "knock knock" joke?

Everyone were confused by the outsider's request.

?: *From Outside* It's to help me relieve some of my stress before coming in. Also, I always wanted to do that with an actual closed door.

Boy Survivor: *Sweat Drop* Well... You can, I guess.

?: *From Outside* OH, thank you, thank you! Alright, here I go. *Clears Throat* Knock, knock!

Boy Survivor: Who's there?

?: *From Outside* Hey!

Boy Survivor: Hey, wh-?

Before the boy finishes that sentence, the door blows up, forcefully pushing the boy away and toward the group of survivors. Immediately after, inside from the smoke at the entrance, Ion reveals himself before them, holding in his hands something that looks like a chainsaw which is also a shotgun.

Ionas (Shadow): *Fast* HEYWANNASEEMYNEWCHAINSAWANDSHOTGUN?! *Big Grin* *Activates Chainsaw*

[The Music "Rip And Tear" From "Doom-Original Game Soundtrack" Starts Playing In The Building]

*The camera now shows the building from the outside, with the sounds of music, screaming, chainsaw, and shotgun shots being heard from the inside. After two minutes or so, music and noises stop, with the whimpering of some women now only being heard*

~At The Moment~

While Nana was following her animal friend, she decided to phone-call Rito and the others through her D-Dial, to inform them about the situation.

Nana: Yes? Rito, can you hea-?

Rito (On Phone): Nana, is that yo-?

*Blaster Shots Can Be Heard From The Phone*

Nana: *Swear Drop* Wha-What is going on there?!

Rito (On Phone): *Troubled* The flying spearmen came back, after we found a barrier blocking our way! Their long spears became long blasters suddenly, and started shooting at us! *Sad* We lost a lot of people from that...

Nana: *Feeling Sorry* I see... *Serious* What is your situation now?

Rito (On Phone): Mikan along with me and the surviving people are taking cover inside a building, while Mea is fighting them outside on her own. The spearmen stopped attacking us as soon as we went inside the building for some reason, so we are fine for now.

Nana: How is Mea doing?

*At The Moment, Mea Outside Has The Time Of Her Life, Shooting Down One Spearman After Another With Her Laser Guns*

Mea: *Enjoying* This is so much fun!

Rito (On Phone): *Sweat Drop* I'll say she is more than fine. Anyway, how are things at your side?

Nana: *Sweat Drop* Not good. Momo just informed me that the barrier is covering the whole town.

Rito (On Phone): *Sweat Drop* Th-The whole town?! So, we are trapped?!

Nana: Unfortunately yes.

Rito (On Phone): Wait, how did she learn that it covers the whole town?

Nana: ... *Gloomy* Ion told her so himself.

Rito (On Phone): *Shocked* ... Ion?

Nana: *Gloomy* He killed most of the people in her group. The few that survived are being hunted down by him right now.

Rito (On Phone): *Feeling Sorry* Horrible... *Concerned* What about Momo? Is she ok?

Nana: She is. Ion left her alone to continue his pursuit, before doing anything to her. But she is in shock. I left my group inside a building, and went for her. They should be fine in there for the time being.

Rito (On Phone): *Feeling Sorry* Poor Momo... Must have been hard for her...

Nana: Hey, have you seen Yami?

Rito (On Phone): Eh? No, I haven't seen her at all after she went to fight Ion at the giant flying fish-thing.

Nana: *Somewhat Annoyed* It's called a "Manta Ray", you idiot. *Realization* Wait...

Nana looks up to the sky around, only to see that the giant Manta is nowhere.

Nana: *Sweat Drop* The Manta is gone!

Rito (On Phone): *Sweat Drop* Eh?! How did something so-?!

Nana: I don't know. Maybe Yami took care of it somehow. But still, where-?

At that moment, Nana along with her animal friend stop as soon as they notice Yami flying fast above the buildings they were passing by, and leaving as soon as she appeared.

Nana: *Sweat Drop* I-I just saw Yami!

Rito (On Phone): *Sweat Drop* Really?!

Nana: *Sweat Drop* She seemed to be in a hurry. If I had to guess, I would say Ion got away after the Manta vanished, and now she is searching for him.

Rito (On Phone): Let's hope she finds him soon. *Concerned* If this continues...The town and the people will never again be the same.

Nana: *Serious* Don't say that! Everything will be-

That moment, a hand snatches Nana's phone from behind.

Nana: *Sweat Drop* Hey, what the-? *Gasps Shocked*

Her animal friend hid itself fast behind a building's corner that moment.

Rito (On Phone): Nana? What hap-?

Ionas (Shadow): *Smile* Hello there, friend.

Rito (On Phone): *Gasps Shocked In Realization*

{Nana's POV}

Ion was now using my D-Dial. I didn't even notice him coming. And now he looks even more twisted than the time I saw him at the pool.

Ionas (Shadow): *Smile* I just want to inform you, that I already know where you are.

What?!

Rito (On Phone): *Shocked* ... H-How-?

Ionas (Shadow): Those soldiers are practically part of me. What they know, "I" know. What they see, "I" see. And that building you are in...*Big Grin* Will not keep you safe from me.

Rito (On Phone): ...

Ionas (Shadow): I'll come visit you there real soon. Bye for now!

And with that, he ends the call, and throws the D-Dial toward me, with me catching it in time with my hands.

Ionas (Shadow): Thanks for that, pink-haired boy, I'll now take my leave.

Boy?! Ion turns around, and is about to leave.

Nana: *Sweat Drop* Wa-? Stop right there, Ion!

Ion stops, but doesn't turn around to face me.

Nana: *Serious* I don't believe you were like that from the very beginning.

Ionas (Shadow): ...

Nana: The Ion I know is not like that. *Smile* You're kind-hearted, decent, and caring to most if not all. You have proven that more times than I can count.* *Shakes Head* There is no way you can tell me "that" Ion was nothing but a lie!

Ionas (Shadow): ...

Nana: *Emotional* I know you're in there somewhere, Ion. Please, I beg of you... Come back to us... Back to me...! Don't let-

Ionas (Shadow): *Irritated* You think of yourself as something special, don't you? *Turns His Head Around* Well, think again!

Ion turns around and moves in front of me in almost an instant, somewhat startling me.

Ionas (Shadow): *Annoyed* *Points At Her*YOU, are nothing special. *Points At Her Chest* You HAVE, nothing special! *Moves His Face Close To Hers* *Aversion* You dese~rve, nothing special.

Nana: ...

That he can just say things like that...

Ionas (Shadow): *Moves His Head Back* *Serious* So, unless you want to end up like one of the SLAUGHTERED MASSES... You will step aside, get out of my way, and go play with yourself or something. *Waves Hand As To Shoo Her* Shoo, shoo.

Nana: ... You did not... Hesitate to kill the girls you say you didn't like, right?

Ionas (Shadow): *Raises An Eyebrow* Hm?

Nana: *Serious* Yet, you make no attempts to kill ME right now, like you did to others... You're still-

Ionas (Shadow): *Smile* Don't be mistaken. The only reason I am not killing you, is because I feel pity for you. So long with someone you thought as friend, only to see that he was playing you for a fool all along. Even "I" think you had enough.

Nana: I don't believe that. I believe the real reason is because deep inside-

He suddenly grabs me by the neck with one hand, and lifts me off the ground, choking me.

Nana: *Shocked And Choking*

Ionas (Shadow): *Aversion* Keep on pestering me with your bullsh*t, and I can assure you, you WILL end up like the other.

By saying that, he tightens his grip, to the point I can feel myself passing out, not mentioning the pain.

Ionas (Shadow): You were always thinking of me as your best friend, when in reality... *Big Sinister Grin* I was nothing more but your worst nightmare.

Nana: *Choking And About To Pass Out*

Just when I was about to pass out, he opens his grip, letting me fall down onto the ground with my back, and allowing me to breath again.

Nana: *Gasps For Air While Coughing*

Ionas (Shadow): If I made myself clear, I will get going now. See you, never.

By saying that, he begins to walk away. Damn it! Kremant's influence has affected him way worse than I thought. I can't get through to him just by talking. I didn't want to do this, but... I get up, and prepare myself, with the D-Dial in my hand.

Nana: *Serious* We are not done yet, Ion! Turn around!

Ion stops, sighs, and turns around, with an annoyed expression on his face. At the moment, using my D-Dial, I summon Gii-Chan, the Giga Wild Boar, from my cyber safari.

Ionas (Shadow): *Oddly Surprised*

Nana: *Serious* If you're not going to listen, then I will knock some sense into you instead! *To The Boar* Go, Gii-Chan!

The boar rushes toward Ion, going for a charge. Ion gets into stance, and remains in position, expecting the boar's charge. When the boar reaches him, Ion grabs with both his hands two of the four boar's tusks, while being pushed back a little by its forceful pushing, and stopping the boar's advance completely by that way.

Ionas (Shadow): *Grin* Heh.

Immediately after, Ion lifts the boar by its two tusks, almost effortlessly, with its bottom now facing the sky.

Gii-Chan: *Surprised Boar Noises*

Nana: *Sweat Drop* E-Eh?!

Ionas (Shadow): *Raises An Eyebrow* Are you seriously telling me, THIS was your best idea? *Shakes Head* And then you wonder why I don't think much of you.

I can't believe how easily he incapacitated Gii-Chan! Ion looks at the boar, and then brings his right hand to his chin, lifting the giga boar with only his left hand now, seemingly thinking about something.

Ionas (Shadow): You know... *Drools A Bit* This big boar looks like it can become quite the meal.

Gii-Chan: *Sweat Drop*

What?

Ionas (Shadow): I ate nothing after leaving school today, so I'm understandably hungry.

He is planning to actually eat Gii-Chan?!

Ionas (Shadow): *Smile* I was quite surprised when you summoned one of your pets to attack me. I never thought you're willing to sacrifice the lives of your own animal "friends" just to face me, especially if you consider what I did to many of the people of this town so far.

Wha-?! That's not-!

Ionas (Shadow): *Pleased* In a way, it makes me somewhat happy to know you don't actually care for them. About what will happen to them once they face me. *Grin* It seems that in the end... You're just as sadistic as I am.

Nana: *Shocked* ...

I... I'm not...

Ionas (Shadow): *Smile* In any case, I must thank you for this treat you gave me here. I appreciate the thought. Even from you.

Gii-Chan: *Sweat Dropping Like Crazy*

Ion licks his lips, and moves his right fist right below the boar's snout.

Ionas (Shadow): *Excited* One delicious big pork souvlaki is coming right up in 5. 4. 3.

Nana: *Shocked* NO!

I quickly use the D-Dial, teleporting Gii-Chan back into the cyber safari, just before an incredibly long blade emerges forcefully from Ion's right hand, saving the Giga Wild Boar the last second. After doing that, I fall down on my knees and cover my face, shocked by what I almost did to one of my animal friends. Wanting to save Ion, I never considered the danger I was going to put my animal friends into, in order to do that. I'm horrible!

Nana: *Quietly Crying From Shock*

Ionas (Shadow): *Irritated* There goes my meal. It seems I overestimated you.

That moment, I hear from afar something that resembles moving wheels, along with the crying and whimpering of people. Hearing that, I uncover my face, and notice three black horses, tied to a big dome-like cage, with four steel wheels attached on its sides, filled with multiple girls and women, moving fast past me, and stopping beside Ion. So, that's where he keeps the women he abducts!

Ionas (Shadow): I'm not losing more time with a loser like you.

Ion jumps on top of the cage, sits on it, and reaches for the horses' lead ropes.

Nana: *Notices* Ah!

I notice amongst the women a familiar face. The mother with the child I spoke to, before leaving them and the rest of the group back at the building! Why is she-?!

Nana: *Sweat Drop* Hey, you!

The woman notices me, looking at me with sadness and a tearful face, with Ion looking behind out of curiosity.

Nana: *Sweat Drop* Why are you in there?! What happened?!

Mother Survivor: *Sorrowful And In Tears* ... He came the moment you left... He killed everyone but me and three other women...

Nana: *Shocked* ... What about your...?

The woman looks away while covering her face, crying quietly while being comforted by another woman, the moment I was about to mention her child. Did Ion really-?

Ionas (Shadow): She is not very willing to answer that, so I will. *Grin* Her child... I ate it along with a salad and some lemonade! *Big Grin*

Nana: *Shocked Beyond Belief* ... Wha...?

Ionas (Shadow): *Amused* HA! Got you there! I am many things, but being a cannibal would be WAY too much of an overkill even for me. But either way, it was quite unique the way the child ended up. See, after killing everyone, with the exception of the four women I trapped in my web, I noticed that child, who was the only one remaining, looking at the gorefest I made out of everyone in the room. The shock in its eyes was so great, that I couldn't help but grin widely from amusement. Not enough to make me laugh, though. I decided to approach the child slowly and menacingly, while its mother was screaming at it to run away and save its life. The child couldn't take its shocked and filled with tears eyes from me. And when I reached it, I brought the shotgun part of my weapon in front of its face and said "Hasta La Vista, Baby"! Always wanted to say that by the way. *Short Chuckle* But when I was about to pull the trigger, the child just, fell down on its own. *Oddly Surprised* Then is when I confirmed that it died from a heart attack! Can you believe it?!* Still gave it a shot in the face to not feel lazy about it, though.

Nana: ...

Ionas (Shadow): *Smile* Well, that's all. Bye!

And with that, Ion left along with the cage carriage, going to where Rito and the others are.

Nana: *Very Saddened And Trembling* I can't believe the things he is making you do, Ion... *Tears Start To Fall Again*

...

*With Ion Out Of Sight, The Animal Marimotta Gets Out Of Its Hidding Place, And Goes Close To Nana, Rubbing Itself Onto Her In Order To Comfort Her*

Nana: *Wipes Her Tears Away, And Rubs Her Pet On The Head* *Smile* You're right, Marimotta.

I get up.

Nana: *Serious* I can't just sit down and cry now.

I don't know how I will do it, but I will bring Ion back. I will not lose hope just like that! You will not make me!

Nana: We should go find Momo first, before we do anything else. Marimotta?

*With The Pet Understanding, Nana Continues To Follow It To Where Momo Is*

~Meanwhile~At Rito's Location~

{Author's POV}

Rito, Mikan, and the rest of the group of survivors are still inside the building taking cover, while Mea is dealing with the flying spearmen outside. Rito was really troubled after speaking with Ion through the phone, along with Mikan who was close enough to hear them.

Mikan: *Sweat Drop* He knows we are here, and we can't move out with the commotion out there either, what are we gonna do?!

Rito: *Sweat Drop* I don't know! *Grunts* If only we could just make those soldiers leave us alone...!

*Meanwhile, Mea Outside Kept Shooting At The Flying Spearmen, While Doing Her Best To Avoid Their Blaster Shots*

Mea: (Their numbers don't seem to really decrease. The number I kill just gets replaced out of nowhere! It is really starting to get boring. Not to mention tiring.)

Shadow's Infantry Commander: Εμπρός! [Forward]

Mea: Hm?

Mea looks farther within their ranks, and notices the one with a red plume on his helmet, pointing at Mea while seemingly ordering his soldiers.

Shadow's Infantry Commander: Πάμε, πάμε, λυγίζει! [Let's go, let's go, she falters]

Mea: (I don't know what he said, but he looks important.) *Smile* (I'm gonna take him down!)

Mea aims, and shoots fast a powerful laser beam, piercing through the Commander's chest, and creating a gaping hole in him by that way. The Commander looks at the hole in his chest in disbelief, as he slowly turns into dust.

Shadow's Infantry Commander: Γ*ΜΏ-! [F*CK]

Before saying more, the Commander vanishes completely, with all of his spearmen turning into dust as well afterward.

Mea: *Sweat Drop* Eh?

~At The Moment~

While Ion was moving around on top of his cage carriage, he suddenly gets a stinging feeling that hits him like a headache, stopping the carriage in response.

Ionas (Shadow): *Upset* Ανάθεμα! [Damn] They found out the army's weakness!

~Back At Rito's Location~

The area was now clear of those soldiers, like they were never there to begin with.

Rito: I'm not hearing blaster shots anymore. *Gets Up A Little, And Looks Out Of The Window* Mea, is everything ok?

Mikan: *Takes A Look Outside As well* *Confused* Where did all the soldiers go?

Mea: I don't know why, but they all turned into dust after I shot down the one with the red plume on his helmet.

Mikan: *Sweat Drop* Huh?!

Rito: *Sweat Drop* R-Really?!

Mea: It seems that's all we needed to do all this time to get rid of them.

Kremant: Funny, isn't it?

They all look around to see where Kremant is, but he is nowhere to be found.

Kremant: {Telepathy}: (I'm talking via telepathy to the three of you only. I just want to say, imagine if you knew about how to beat Ion's soldiers from the beginning. How many more lives you could have saved thanks to that.)

Mostly Rito and Mikan feel bad after hearing that, being reminded of the town's loses.

Kremant: {Telepathy}: (In any case, I have to inform you that you still have the cavalry to deal with, so don't relax just yet.)

Rito: *Frustrated* Do you really enjoy all of this? All this missery? Don't you feel anything at all about the people's lives that have been taken away because of you?!

Mikan: Rito...

Kremant: {Telepathy}: (To feel anything, those lost lives must mean something to me to begin with, right?)

Rito: *Shocked* ... How can you be so-?

Kremant: {Telepathy}: (I don't think you have the time to question my life choices. Do you?)

Rito remembers what Ion told him. He gets up, and looks at the survivor group, who they still wonder what happened.

Rito: *Serious* Everyone! The ones who were shooting at us are gone! But we can't stay in here! We have to move somewhere else and fast! This way!

~Meanwhile~

Ion's cage carriage was moving fast, with him whipping the horses to go faster, and seemingly to relieve some of his frustration.

Ionas (Shadow): *Upset* Faster, faster! I will not let that lucky moment of theirs slow me down! Once I get to them, I will have their heads, and every hole they can offer! *Notices* Hm?

Ion stops the cage carriage as soon as he notices multiple people from afar going around a corner, behind a semi-broken building.

Ionas (Shadow): *Thinking* Hmm... I could just go the other way, so I can reach Rito and his group just like I told them about, and see the terror in their eyes as I slaughter them, or I can chase those normal ones and-* *Smile* Ah, f*ck it, I'm going for those normal ones! I can always find Rito's group later!

Ion changes route, and starts gleefully chasing down the unfortunate survivors he just saw.

~At Momo's Location~

{Nana's POV}

I found Momo, and helped her get some sort of web off her hand, releasing her from the sticky situation. Once that was done, she hugs me tightly, while weeping on my shoulder. Ion must have given her quite the fright for her to act like this.

Momo: *Whimpering* Nana...!

Nana: *Tries To Comfort Her* Calm down, sister, I'm here now. You don't have to worry about anything.

While comforting her, I look one more time at the shockingly awful display that is in front of us. [Remember The Torn Apart Girl?] No wonder Momo is in such shock.

Momo: *Whimpering* He is a monster... A monster...

Nana: *Serious* No, Momo, it's not his fault! It never was, you kno-

Momo: *Tearful But Serious* Nana!

Momo wipes with her arm the tears off her face, and looks at me in a serious manner.

Momo: *Serious* The Ion we knew is gone! He is nothing more than a sadistic animal now!

Nana: *Sweat Drop* That's not tru-!

Momo: *Real Serious* It is!

I look at Momo concerned, as she starts to tremble.

Momo: *Distressed* I tried talking to him... Wanting to help bring him back to the way he used to be... But he completely ignored my words... As if that truly meant nothing to him anymore. And after what he did... And what he was about to do... *Weeping* There's no way he is still-

Nana: I know what you mean, Momo. I tried talking to him as well, without results. *Serious* But I'm still not going to abandon him just like that. Not because of a damned ghost!

Momo: *Distressed* Nana... He will kill you! Or worse...

Nana: He might try... *Serious* But I still believe we can help him. And you must believe as well. All those times we went through together with him... *Shakes Head* There is no way he could fake all that. Will you trust me, sister?

Momo looks at me somewhat shocked for a moment, and then looks away, while struggling with herself.

Momo: ... *Conflicted* I want to believe, Nana... I really do... But how are we even going to-

Nana: I have an idea. But it's risky. *Determined* I will-

?: Εκεί είναι! [There they are]

Nana: Huh?

I notice from afar five horsemen coming fast toward us. One of them has a red plume on his helmet.

Shadow's Cavalry Commander: Πιάστε την καλλονή, ποδοπατήστε την άλλη αν δεν κάνει στην άκρη! [Catch the beauty, trample the other if she doesn't step aside]

No idea what he said, but I don't like it.

Momo: *Sweat Drop* Th-They are coming straight at us!

Nana: *Frustrated* Damn it, all the time with them today!

I was preparing to summon one of my animal friends through my D-Dial, to deal with those horsemen. Ion might be a danger for my friends, but I know for sure those horsemen are no much for-

*Before she summons anything, familiar blades decapitate four of the five horsemen, leaving only the Cavalry Commander still standing and running*

Nana: *Sweat Drop* Wha-?!

Shadow's Cavalry Commander: Τι στον- [What in the-]

That instant his horse is decapitated too, having as a result for him to fall down onto the ground, as the horse turns into dust beside him. The moment he attempts to get up and raise his weapon, golden hair surround him, and cover his entire body but the head, restricting his movements and lifting him off the ground. That is when we see it was Yami, who was walking closer to us while holding him.

Nana: *Relieved* Yami!

Momo: *Relieved* Yami-San!

Yami: It seems that I came just in time.

Momo: *Sweat Drop* Yami-San, where were you? I thought you said you were going to fight Ion!

Yami: Zastin was already there fighting Ion when I finally reached the giant creature at the sky.

Momo: *Sweat Drop* (Zastin was there too?)

Yami: Ion used a dirty trick to escape, endangering the lives of four of your friends from school, by throwing them off of the giant creature.

Nana: *Sweat Drop* That's terrible! What happened to them, did you save them?

Yami: I saved the two without problem. The other two were saved as well, but...

*A Scene Shows Zastin Above A Cracked Ground, With Dizzy Eyes, And With Saki And Risa Free And Beside Him, With Saki Hugging Him*

Yami: He had a bad fall. I moved them all carefully inside a building, where I believe they will be safe for now.

Nana: I see, that's good to know.

Momo: Ok, I can understand that. But, aren't you supposed to be able to sense Ion's aura or something. Finding him should be-

Yami: I can't find him.

Momo: *Sweat Drop* Eh?

Yami: After the creature exploded at the sky, the energy it released to create the barrier around the town, made it feel like Ion's aura is everywhere. And with all the chaos around, it's hard to tell where he might be exactly.

So that's how the barrier was created!

Yami: *Looks At The Cavalry Commander*

Shadow's Cavalry Commander: *Struggling To Free Himself*

Yami moves with her hair the wrapped Cavalry Commander a little closer to her, while forcing him to face her.

Yami: If you value your life at all, I suggest you start talking about Ion's whereabouts.

Shadow's Cavalry Commander: Μωρή, δεν πας να γ*μηθείς λέω εγώ! ["Μωρή" in short, is the feminine, offensive way to call a woman. Like saying an offensive "you" to her.[don't you go f*ck yourself I say]

Yami: *Very Annoyed* ...

In almost an instant, Yami stabs his face with three hair-blades, before deciding to decapitate him with her arm-blade, with his remains turning into dust soon after.

~At The Moment~

Ion was surrounded by dismembered bloody bodies around the area, and was standing above of a frightened woman, while holding a normal sized warhammer in one hand.

Ionas (Shadow): *Smile* You know, now that I take a closer look at you, you don't look that ba-

Ion that moment receives the same stinging feeling, like the time he lost his spearmen army.

Ionas (Shadow): *Realizes He Lost All Of His Army* ...

Ion grips his weapon tightly with visible anger. The woman trembles as she watches the expression in his face changing like that all of a sudden. That moment, he raises with both hands the warhammer above of his head.

Ionas (Shadow): *Furious* ΣΚΎΛΑ~! [B*TCH~]

The woman screams horrified, as Ion furiously starts to smash and crush her with his weapon, without mercy.

~Back At Momo's Location~

Nana: *Sweat Drop* What did he even say to tick you off like that?!

Yami: *Irritated* I don't know, but it felt worth killing him.

*Phone Ringing*

I look at my D-Dial, and see Rito's name. I hope it's not what I think it is. I press to answer.

Nana: *Concerned* Hey, Rito, is everything ok?

Rito (On Phone): *Sweat Drop* Something strange just happened. While we were moving to another location, we noticed some incoming horsemen turning into dust.

Nana: *Sweat Drop* Wha- Really?

Rito (On Phone): Mea flew above the town to check. There was no horseman for miles. They all have vanished completely!

Mea (On Phone): Hey, Nana! It's Mea! Say, did you happen to kill a soldier with a red plume on his helmet or something?

Nana: Huh? Yeah. Yami just came, and turned him into dust. Why?

Mea explained about what happened to the spearmen.

Nana: *Sweat Drop* So, you say it was THAT simple to beat them all this time?!

Mea (On Phone): Yeah!

Nana: *Frustrated* That's stupid! We could have saved so many people if we just-!

Momo gets up, seemingly feeling better.

Momo: It's good to know that no more people will have to die because of an unending army. *Concerned* Still... That doesn't mean it's over yet.

Yami: We still have Ion to deal with.

Momo: Talking to him doesn't work.

Nana: And beating him up might not be enough considering how much damage he can endure.

Yami: It's true. He could stand up to the Darkness transformation without much problem. This might not be as simple as I first thought.

Momo: ... So, Nana... What was that plan you were talking about?

Nana: Right. Well, you see...

~One Fast Explanation Later~

Momo: *Sweat Drop* That's your plan?!

Nana: It might be the only way.

Momo: *Sweat Drop* Nana, I know that you lov- I mean, Ion is your best friend and all, but that's WAY too risky! *Concerned* If it doesn't work, he will-

Nana: *Serious* It HAS to work! *Determined* After everything else failed, it's the only thing that might be what Ion needs to remember himself, and wake him up from the nightmare he has become.

Momo: *Concerned* Bu-But-

Rito (On Phone): *Serious* I'm with Nana on that.

Momo: *Sweat Drop* R-Rito-San!

Rito (On Phone): *Serious* If there is a possibility to bring Ion back, then we have to at least try it. He is our friend after all. We can't just leave him like that.

Momo: (Rito-San...)

Mikan (On Phone): *Serious* I agree with that as well! We should help him!

Mea (On Phone): Me too! Things will not be as interesting without Ion-Senpai.

Yami: ... I'm with them as well.

Momo: *Sweat Drop* (Even Yami-San?!)

Yami: He is pretty much like me. A victim of his own power, even in a way. You did not gave up on me when I lost myself. We should not give up on him either.

Rito (On Phone): Yami...

Momo: ... *Sigh* I guess I can't back away after hearing all that. Thinking about facing him again... *Shivers From Fear* Is making me shiver... *Serious* But I will help in any way I can, if it means to end this nightmare we are in.

Nana: *Smile* Everyone... *Determined* Alright! First, we will gather all together. Then, we will go find Ion.

I was about to summon Marimotta again, so we can be ready to search for Ion, but Yami stops me by lowering my D-Dial, along with the hand that holds it, with her palm.

Yami: Wait, princess Nana. Before that, I need to ask you something.

Nana: Huh? What?

Yami: ... When all the straws have been pulled... When all options have been exhausted... Will you be able to accept what has to be done in the end?

Nana: ... *Looks Away Concerned*

I know what she means by that... And I don't want to think about it...

~Some Time Later~Somewhere In The Town~

{Author's POV}

Destruction was all around. Dead people, mutilated and crushed corpses everywhere. On the roads, on the ruined remains of buildings and under the rubble around the area... Everywhere. Ion was walking around, holding with one hand his warhammer, and with the cage carriage following him, while searching the area for any unfortunate soul that might still be hiding around. One male survivor can be seen hiding under some stone rubble, shivering and filled with fear, while trying to not make a sound.

Ionas (Shadow): *Smile* Oh, Survivo~r. Where are you, Survivo~r? *Grin*

Ion keeps on walking, getting closer and closer, while looking around. The survivor gets more stressed the closer Ion gets.

Ionas (Shadow): *Smile* You can run, but you can't hide, cause I can smell your fear. *Big Smile* And BOY, YOU STINK!

By saying that last one, he swings his warhammer horizontally, smashing and throwing to the side the stone rubble, revealing the frightened survivor, with Ion grinning widely about his discovery.

Survivor: *Frightened* No! Don't do it! I'm a virgin!

Ionas (Shadow): *Seemingly Surprised* What a coincidence! *Smile* So am I!

With a fast movement of his leg, Ion stomps forcefully once with his metal boot the guy's groin, making a loud splatter sound, with the guy loudly screaming in agony, having his "area" now crushed completely. Then, he swings his warhammer once more, striking the guy's head hard enough to decapitate it, throwing it meters away.

Ionas (Shadow): *Gleeful* But not for lo~ng.

He says that while looking at the cage with the women behind him. The women look at him in horror, with him grinning and chuckling ominously while looking at them. When he turns his head to look forward, he sees Yami landing at a distance in front of him.

Ionas (Shadow): *Delighted* Oh~, yummy! My delicious special treat! *Irritated* And also the army-buster. I can't say I liked that act of yours very much, not one bit.* But after a good slaughtering, I feel much better, and don't really hold any real anger toward you anymore. *Smile* Lucky you!

Yami: *Stares At The Cage Filled With Frightened Women* ...

Ionas (Shadow): What? *Looks Behind At It And Then Again At Yami* The cage? *Grin* Interested to become part of it, are we? Seriously though, look at it! It is so filled, that almost resembles my situation down below me. Might need to make it bigger later.

Yami: *Stares At Ion* ...

Ionas (Shadow): ... *Curious* Ok, I need to ask, what are you-?

Yami: Keeping an eye on you.

Ionas (Shadow): *Smile* My face is stunning, I know.

Yami: Not for that.

Ionas (Shadow): Then?

Yami: To make sure you will go nowhere till they come.

Ion looks at her curious about what she said, and just before he says anything, distant footsteps behind him draw his attention. Ion points at the side, and the horses move the cage carriage aside, revealing at the distance Rito, Mikan, Momo, and Nana, who were approaching.

Ionas (Shadow): *Very Delighted* Well, well, WELL! We finally get to meet! Rito and Mikan, my targets of slaughter! Momo, the beautiful flower whom I soon will DE-flower, if you know what I mean. *Short Chuckle* And...

Ion's face fills slowly with aversion when he notices Nana.

Nana: *Serious* ...

Ionas (Shadow): *Annoyed* The girlish boy Nana.

Nana: *Sweat Drop* (I know that my breast is nothing special, but you can't really call me a boy just for that, come on!)

Ionas (Shadow): *Irritated* I'm pretty sure I've made it clear enough the last time, that I would KILL YOU if you come to bother me again. Yet here you are.

Momo: *Sweat Drop* (Ok, here we are. Let's hope this will work. But, in case this goes badly, Mea is inside a half-ruined building at the side, ready to shoot at him with her laser gun through an open window as a last resort. Nana was against such thing, but had to accept it in the end. It's for her own safety after all! Now... Let's see how this goes.)

Nana begins to walk toward Ion.

Nana: *Determined* (I am coming to you-) Ion!

Ionas (Shadow): *Raises An Eyebrow* Oh~? You're approaching me? Instead of running away, like the sissy you are, you're coming straight to me?

Nana: *Determined* I cannot save you without getting closer.

Nana is approaching.

Ionas (Shadow): *Irritated* Then I suggest you to think again about it, while still alive. I'm not going to show you any mercy if you keep this up.

Nana: *Determined* I don't care.

She keeps on approaching.

Ionas (Shadow): *Annoyed* I will make your last moments nothing but agonizing suffering.

Nana: *Determined* I don't care.

She is halfway there.

Ionas (Shadow): *Angry* I have a big stick here, and I'm experienced enough to know how to use it!

Nana: *Determined* I don't care.

She begins to run toward him.

Momo: *Real Concerned* Nana, running was not-!

Nana: *Determinded* I don't care!

Ionas (Shadow): *Menacing* I will destroy you... Literally!

Nana: *Really Determined* You were always there for me when I needed you, it's time to do the same for you!

She is close!

Ionas (Shadow): *Troubled* I-I-I will-

Before he finishes that sentence, Nana falls onto him with extended arms, and hugs him tightly, with her face close to his armor's belly.

Ionas (Shadow): *Shocked* ...

Nana: *Tears Start To Fall* Ion... Don't let this go on... You're important to me... I don't want to see you like this anymore... So, please... Come back to me... As the one I have known and cared about for so long...

Ionas (Shadow): ... *Tears Start To Fall*

Everyone who were seeing him shedding tears like that had a smile on their face, thinking it's actually working. Everyone except Momo, who was still wary about this. Nana was still not looking at him.

Nana: *Blush And In Tears* Ion... I lo-

Before saying more, Ion touches her to the top of her head, which catches her by surprise. He then starts rubbing her hair, while his armor turns into dust, revealing his bare torso.

Ionas (Shadow): *Tears Continue To Fall* I'm sorry...

By hearing that, Nana's face fills with happiness, as she smiles while thinking she did it.

Nana: *Lifts Head* Io- *Gasps Shocked*

Nana, along with the rest, were watching in shock as Ion's warhammer turns into a greatsword that has multiple hook-like edges on both its sides, while raising it with one hand above his head, holding it in a reverse grip manner.

Ionas (Shadow): *In Tears* *Wickedly Cheeky* The number you have called is unavailable at the moment.

Mea appears to have a hard time targeting, due to the fact Nana is on the way.

Momo: *Shocked* (The way they are positioned, Mea can't-)

Ionas (Shadow): *In Tears* *Wickedly Cheeky* Please, call after the-

Just before the strike, Nana is quickly being pulled backward by a thick plant-vine, saving her the last second, with Ion ending up impaling himself forcefully in the belly, and with the point of his greatsword being stuck to the ground behind him as a result. Nana is then being released beside Momo, who was the one to call the vine through her D-Dial. Nana looks at Ion shocked, who at the moment was twitching, while bleeding from the wound.

Ionas (Shadow): *Gleefully Chuckling As If In Pleasure, While Still In Tears* Oh, Nana... This would have been SO much more enjoyable, if you were still close to me... I can imagine it... Your face filled with agony and despair... Such a beautiful picture...

Everyone were really shocked, not only by his words, but also by the fact they were once again unable to bring Ion back.

Nana: *Shocked And Realizing She Failed To Help Him* ...

Nana falls on her knees, and covers her face, as she begins to cry about her failure.

Rito: *Saddened* Nana...

Nana: *Continues To Cry* (Why...? Why?!)

All were sad for her. Even Mea came out of her hiding place, and went close to Nana as well, really worried for her.

Mea: *Concerned* Nana-Chan...

Momo: ... *Looks At Ion*

At the moment, Ion was pressing his impaled back against two of the greatsword's hooks, not to really remove the weapon, but rather to please himself, while looking at the crying Nana.

Ionas (Shadow): *Big Grin* Ah~, yeah... Now that's what I like seeing... Show me more...

Momo: *Frustrated* ...

Suddenly and in an instant, Momo dashes toward Ion, and punches him in the face. Everyone were really surprised by Momo's reaction, drawing even Nana's attention, who also looks in surprise.

Momo: *Upset* You ungrateful... BASTARD!

After saying that, she begins throwing one punch after another at Ion's face non-stop, and with her eyes filled with killing intent.

Momo: *Angry* She put her life on the line for you! She never stopped believing in you! And how do you thank her? By trying to stab her in the back, and laughing in her face about it, seeing it as some kind of joke!

Nana: *In Tears* Momo...

Momo: *To Ion* *Angry* You don't deserve her kindness! And you definitely don't deserve her lo-!

Before she says more, Ion stops and grabs her next incoming punch, and looks at her with anger.

Ionas (Shadow): *Angry* Shut the f*ck up you c*nt!

He says while giving her a forceful slap to the face with the back of his hand, throwing her meters away by that way, and making her end up down onto the ground beside Nana, seemingly unconscious.

Nana: *Concerned* Momo!

Nana gets up and goes close, along with Rito and Mikan worried, and see that now she has a small bruise on her right cheek. Momo sits up a little, while covering her cheek with her hand from pain.

Ionas (Shadow):Can't you see that I'm trying-

Ion grabs the greatsword's handle with one hand, and forcefully pulls the sword off himself, opening his wound even more because of the hooks, and spraying lots of blood on the ground in front of him.

Ionas (Shadow): *Wicked Smile* To enjoy myself here?!

Ion remains in position, gasping, and while trying to recover from the wound's sensation.

Momo: *Shocked* He is a monster, a monster!

Nana: *Sweat Drop* No! He is just-!

Yami: It's no use, princess Nana. It is finally time to accept the truth. He is-

Kremant: Hey!

The moment they heard that, they all notice Kremant levitating some meters above of them. "What does he wants" they wonder.

Kremant: I saw how much effort you put there, trying to bring him back to normal. *Grin* I was so moved by your actions, that I decided to let you have a piece of information about his case, to further understand the situation. You deserve as much after all.

They were all confused when he said that.

Kremant: For starters, know that the real Ion is still in there.

Momo gets up from surprise.

Momo: *Sweat Drops* H-He is?!

Kremant: Indeed!

Nana: *Relieved* I knew it! He is not-!

Kremant: BUT! There is no way to break him free with simple acts of kindness and talking. His own power has chained him from head to toe, keeping him trapped inside his own mind. *Grin* And he is not sleeping in there. All this time, Ion- The real Ion, could see what was happening around him, and what he was doing. But he could not do anything to stop himself. Not because his willpower is weak, but because I make sure to keep him locked using my OWN power.

Nana: *Sweat Drop* What?!

Kremant: If it was not for my little interference, he would be free the moment he started the killing, which is not something I would like. It's not that easy to hold one's will under control, especially if he is as stubborn as a donkey.

Nana: *Frustrated* (Poor Ion. He must be devastated in there, after seeing all the misery he caused, and not being able to stop himself. That accursed ghost...)

Ionas (Shadow): What are you even talking about? This is the real me! You're just lying in their face as you always do! *Smile* Stop playing games, you big sadist!

Kremant: *To The Others* I suggest to not trust anything that shadowy personification of his says. He is such a liar, that even HE believes his own lies. *Grin* Hilarious, isn't it?

Nana: *Serious* How do we bring him back?

Kremant: *Big Grin* ...

Nana: *Real Serious* Answer me!

Momo: *Concerned* Nana...

Kremant: There IS one way to break him free.

Rito: *Relieved* There is?!

Mikan: *Relieved* What is it? What should we do?

Kremant: Quite a simple one. All you should do is... Kill him.

Everyone was shocked when he said that.

Nana: *Shocked* ... What...?

Kremant: That way, he will be freed from himself, and finally stop causing all that destruction. *Grin* I said it's a "simple one", not an "easy to handle one". Do that, and you will surely save the people that are still alive. Do not, and risk losing everything you still have. Your choice... *Cheshire Grin* Kids.

And with that, he vanishes from sight.

Nana: ... *Upset* No! I will not accept that! You hear me?! Get back here and tell us what to really do to save him, you-!

Yami: I'm afraid we should do it.

Nana: *Sweat Drop* Wha-? No! We can't just listen-!

*Ion Appears To Be Close At Recovering Completely, With His Wound About To Fully Heal*

Yami: It's either that, or risk everyone's lives in a futile effort. What do you prefer, princess Nana?

Nana: ... *Turns Her Head To The Side Frustrated, Not Wanting To Accept Such Thing*

Rito: *Sweat Drop* Lo-Look, not that I don't agree we should do something, but I think we must help the girls inside that cage first.

Mikan: *Sweat Drop* He is right! There is a possibility he will use them against us, like he did with the others at the giant Manta, like you told us.

Yami: That's true.

Mea: *Smile* Well, in that case, I will deal with Ion-Senpai, while you free the girls, big sister Yami.

Yami: ... Are you sure you want to face him alone, Mea? He is a lot more dangerous than he used to be.

Mea: *Smile* Everyone got to face senpai as he is, now it's my turn. Also, I need to pay him back for making Nana-Chan sad.

Mea begins to approach Ion.

Nana: Mea...

Nana wants to tell her not to harm him too badly, but she knows no one will listen at this point, and lowers her head, saddened by the fact her two best friends will fight one another.

Yami: Princess Momo, while we deal with this, you take Rito, Mikan, and your sister at a safe distance, so they will not further endanger themselves.

Momo: *Sweat Drop* Y-Yes! Come on everyone, we need to move!

Rito: *Sweat Drop* Right!

And with that, Momo, Rito, Mikan, and Nana start to walk away, with the latter looking behind at Ion for a moment, before deciding to continue following them, with tears falling slowly from her face. At the moment, Mea stops at a certain distance in front of Ion, with him now fully healed and ready. Meanwhile, Yami moves fast at the side, using the ruined buildings as cover to hide her presence from Ion, in an attempt to reach the cage carriage behind him undetected.

Ionas (Shadow): *Delighted* Ah~, and I was thinking who was missing. Mea. *Ecstatic* The most arousing of them all!

Mea: *Smile* Thanks for the compliment, Ion-Senpai.

Ionas (Shadow): *Smile* If I remember correctly, you really like being licked. How about a deal? Become one of my women, without showing resistance, and I promise to provide you every day with all the licking you want.

That moment, from Ion's mouth, a really long tongue comes out.

Ionas (Shadow): *With The Tongue Out* And I can make the tongue big and long enough, so you can truly feel the licking everywhere at the same time. *Seductive* And I mean it when I say "everywhere".

Mea: Sounds like a nice offer, but I'll pass. Don't take this the wrong way, senpai, I see you as a nice and interesting guy, but I wouldn't really ask you to lick me. Especially as you are now.

Ion puts his tongue back inside his mouth.

Ionas (Shadow): So, we are not gonna do this the easy way, eh?

That instant, Mea shoots a laser beam at him, after forming fast one hand of hers into a laser gun, and hits Ion at one of his shoulders, disintegrating part of the flesh. Ion holds his wound, seemingly in pain.

Mea: *Smile* Does that answer your question?

Ionas (Shadow): *In Pain* AH-HA-H-OUCH! This stings a lot more than I expected!

Mea: *Smile* Wonderful! Now let's hit you with some more. *Aims*

Ionas (Shadow): *Moves His Hands In Front Of Him, Making A Double Stop Sign* *Seemingly Scared* Whoa, Whoa, Whoa! Let's not do anything hasty now! I... *Sigh* I give up.

Mea: *Confused* Eh~? Really now?

Yami at the moment is able to reach the cage unnoticed from behind already.

Ionas (Shadow): *Grunts And Heals His Wound* I can't really do anything against someone who shoots from afar. I prefer fighting in melee combat, after all. *Seemingly Troubled* Please don't shoot more. You win.

Mea: ... *Lowers Her Laser Gun* Well, that was-

The moment Yami attempts to use one of her blades at the cage, it starts to shake in a wild manner, making her jump away in defense, with the horses cutting their restraints and running away from the cage carriage. Something appears to be below the cage, which lifts it off the ground, revealing to be something that looks like a big black crab with red eyes. The crab was a lot bigger than the average person, with huge pincers, and the cage was now part of its back.

Mea: *Notices The Big Crab Ahead* Huh?

That moment, from Ion's extended hands, two pistol-like weapons come out from inside the skin of his palms, and takes a hold of them as soon as they appear.

Ionas (Shadow): *Cheeky Grin* IT'S WHAT YOU THINK I'D SAY, B*TCH!

Mea surprised gets back into aiming, and prepares for battle.

[The Music "The Encounter" From "Kingdom Hearts 2" Starts To Play In The Area]

Ion starts shooting blaster-type bullets at Mea, with her dodging and shooting laser beams at him, which he dodge while continuing shooting as well. Meanwhile, the big crab emits a loud gargling noise, which makes multiple smaller shadowy crabs, human sized, to appear from the ground. Yami realizing this will not be as simple as she thought, turns her other hand into a blade as well, and rushes to the enemy crabs, with them rushing toward her as well.

~Meanwhile~

The rest of the gang were inside a still standing building, with most of them looking outside at the big fight from afar.

Rito: *Sweat Drop* Things seem to be heating up over there. Let's hope they can make it.

Mikan: *Saddened* I know that it's for our own good, but... I really don't like the idea of seeing Ion being... He was with us for so long, protecting us, helping us, being our good friend in general... *Tearing* It's just so sad things had to go this way.

Rito hugs Mikan to comfort her.

Rito: *Saddened* I know how you feel, Mikan. But we can't do anything about it anymore. We have to accept it, no matter how much it hurts...

Momo: (I'm glad big sis is not here to witness all this. The town, the people, her friends fighting one another like that... It would have been too devastating for her. It's going to be hard telling her what happened...) *Looks At Nana Concerned*

Nana was crying quietly, while sitting down in front of a corner, sad about not being able to do anything to save Ion.

Momo: *Saddened* (I don't like seeing my sister like that... If there was just a way...)

Momo seems to be thinking about something for a moment.

Momo: *Thinking* (Maybe...)* There might BE a way to reverse this.

Rito: Eh?

Mikan: Eh?

Nana: ... *Turns Her Head Around* Eh?

Everyone in the room were confused as to what Momo meant.

Rito: *Sweat Drop* What are you talking about, Momo?

Momo: I'm talking about helping Ion. I have an idea.

Nana wipes the tears off her face, gets up, and approaches fast her sister, with a face now full of hope.

Nana: Really?! How?! What did you think?!

Momo: It's just a theory of mine, but it might be what we need.

Momo uses her D-Dial to bring out one of her flowers in a pot.

Momo: This is a Jikido Flower. It has the ability to change completely the personality of anyone who smells it. Normally, I wouldn't try something like that on him, taking into account his strange physiology. *Sweat Drop* But as he is... I can't really imagine him becoming worse than that.* I believe it's worth a try. What do you think, Nana? Should we take the risk?

Nana: ...

Momo: *Sweat Drop* (The only reason I'm doing this, is because as long as Ion is still in there, there is hope for him. You still believe in him even now. Right, sister? The least I can do, is to help him in whatever way is still available. But it's up to you to decide if we should go with it in the end or not, Nana. What will you decide?)

~Meanwhile~

Yami was slaying one shadow crab after another, while trying to find an opening to strike the big cage crab without accidentaly harming the women inside its cage. In the meantime, Mea was trying her best to dodge, and block with her ponytail blade, Ion's blaster bullets, along with some bone-vines that appear from below the ground, which attempt to grab her from time to time, while at the same time she tries to hit him with her laser gun, only for him to either dodge, or block her laser beams with bone-shields that come off the ground in front of him when he needs them, and then using the said shields as cover while running and moving around.

Mea: *Smile* Wow, senpai, you are really good at this!

Ionas (Shadow): *Big Grin* Come a little closer, and I'll show you just how good I am, sugar!

Mea: Maybe later! But first-

Mea grows wings fast, and flies up to the sky, and begins to shoot at Ion from above, while flying around the battlefield. Ion quickly drops his guns down, and picks with both hands a big bone-shield off the ground, and uses it as a cover from the laser beams, while staying in place. While covering himself, he makes big bone-vines come out of the ground around the area, with each grabbing and flinging big rocks, cars, and different big objects they find at Mea above, with her doing her best to dodge them all.

Ionas (Shadow): *Gleeful* Once all of this is over, I will douse you in wine, lick your entire body till I feel the alcohol kicking, *Sinister Grin* and f*ck you upside down so hard, that you will think the whole world is shaking instead of us!

Mea: *Somewhat Amazed* Oh~, that's some crazily wonderful stuff you're saying there, Crazy-Senpai!

Ionas (Shadow): *Serious But Crazy-Like* I'm not crazy! YOU'RE crazy! *Points Past Mea* Especially you, punchinthegut!

Mea: Huh? *Turns Her Head Around*

After turning her attention elsewhere, she is immediately punched in the belly, while still on air, by Ion who was somehow able to reach her in an instant.

Mea: *Surprised And In Pain*

Ionas (Shadow): *Amused* Got you!

Immediately after, he grabs with his other hand Mea's ponytail, and swings her forcefully toward the ground. Mea recovers fast despite the direct hit she received, and pull herself up while flying, avoiding crashing onto the ground, and moving upward again, toward the now falling Ion.

Mea: *Smile* *Excited* That was a nice trick, senpai! I really fell for it!

Ionas (Shadow): *Grin* Ready for the real deal? *Forearm Blades Come Out From Both Arms*

Mea: *Smile* *Excited* Looking forward to it! *Ponytail And Both Hands Turn Into Blades*

Ionas (Shadow): *Big Grin* Then let's-!

*Crab Pained Noises*

After hearing that, Ion notices his big cage crab turning into dust, after being sliced one last time by Yami. With the cage vanishing along with the crab, all the women who were inside are now free, and run away for their lives, as Yami looks now at Ion and Mea.

Ionas (Shadow): *Shocking Realization* ...

With Ion losing focus, and still falling, Mea finds the chance to stab through his neck with her ponytail blade, while also stabbing him through the belly and his right shoulder with her hand blades. With her blades still in him, Mea then pushes him along with her, while flying toward the ground, leading into a crashing impact, while also forcefully pinning him there with all three of her blades. Lots of blood was leaving from his wounds, as his face was still full of shock.

[The Music Stops Playing In The Area]

Mea: *Somewhat Confused* Eh~, what is going on with you suddenly, Crazy-Senpai? Weren't you supposed to show me "the real deal"?

Ionas (Shadow): *Stares Toward The Sky, Still Shocked* ...

Mea: Well, I suppose that means-

That instant, Ion grabs with one hand Mea by the star shaped gap symbol on the chest area of her clothing, and pulls her close to him, bringing her face closer to his, surprising her as he is looking her straight in the eyes.

Ionas (Shadow): *Serious Tone* Do you have any idea, for how long I was gathering all those women, so I can have my very own harem of pleasure, and finally be able to relieve some of my incredibly, long ongoing, pent-up stress down here?

Before she can even answer, Ion headbutts her in the face, pushing her back, and immediatelly after punches her, hitting her in the face once again, pushing her off him, forcing her to remove her blades off him as well by that way, and throwing her upward toward the sky with the force of his strike.

Yami: *Concerned* Mea!

Yami grows wing, and proceeds to fly toward her. Ion jumps fast toward Mea, grabs her by one of her legs while still on air, and with a swing, he flings her toward Yami, who sees her coming and catches her in mid-air.

Yami: Are you ok?

Mea: *Holds Her Face In Pain* Ouch! I am, but that's a nasty feeling!

Yami flies along with Mea and lands onto the ground, with Ion landing as well onto his own side of the field, with a really angry expression on his face.

Mea: What is going on with him all of a sudden?

Ionas (Shadow): *Real Frustrated* I was waiting patiently for SO F*CKING LONG, to have it the way I wanted. All this time I could have just F*CKED THEM ALL without anyone interfering! And what YOU do? You get in the way and *Furious* RUIN MY FUN! KNOWING VERY WELL, THAT IS NEVER A GOOD IDEA, GETTING BETWEEN A MAN, AND HIS LONG AWAITED, SPECIAL BLOODY INTERCOURSE!

Ion that moment grows from his back big dragon-like black wings, and his hands turn into metal, with the fingers then turning into really long claws.

Ionas (Shadow): *Real Frustrated* I've had enough of you and your unwanted behavior toward me. I didn't want to resort to such thing, because I find you special. But since you are not willing to let me do what I want, I will have to kill you, and then use your lifeless bodies to have at least SOME satisfaction from all of this!

Yami: *Disgust* You're a vile one.

Mea: That doesn't sound very fun to me.

Ionas (Shadow): *Real Frustrated* And to think I was looking forward for your expressions... You were always a hindrance to me when I wanted to do something fun, but I had hope...

He clenched his bladed fingers into a fist out of anger, injuring himself and letting some of his blood fall onto the ground. Both Yami and Mea prepare for the next round.

Ionas (Shadow): *Irritated* No longer will I need to live under your shadows. But soon... *Furious* YOU WILL DIE UNDER MINE!

[The Music "A Despair-Filled Farewell" From "Shadow of the Colossus" Starts Playing In The Area]

Ion jumps high into the air, and his wings are set aflame in a red fire, as he flies at high speed toward Yami and Mea, while also breathing fire continuously at everything in front of him at a wide range. Both Yami and Mea dodge by flying fast on opposite directions, letting Ion and his flames pass through the last moment. As soon as he misses, he is flying straight at where Yami is going, following her from behind.

Ionas (Shadow): *Furious* Burn, baby! Burn! *Continues To Breath Fire Forward*

Yami flies as fast as possible, but he is gaining on her, with the flames being that close to reaching her. Mea then shoots him with a laser beam from above straight at his back, making him lose balance for a moment, and making him stop fire-breathing, but not enough to make him fall. After receiving the first shot, he dodges the next, and then flies straight to Mea. She shoots some more laser beams at him, but he dodges them without problem.

Ionas (Shadow): *Furious* I'm fast, I'm furious, and I'm coming for your a*s!

Ion reaches her, and starts attacking her furiously with his claws, while she defends and attacks with her ponytail and hand-blades. Every scratch Ion receives is healing at tremendous speed, and Mea is starting to have trouble defending, as his strikes become faster and faster by the second.

Mea: *Sweat Drop* (His attacks get faster! At this point he will-!)

That moment, Ion is able to break her guard, and is about to slice her neck. The last second Yami comes fast, and blocks his attack with her hand-blade, before kicking him in the face, pushing him back some meters by that way. Ion recovers while on air, and flies in place, staring at them with great anger.

Mea: *Smile* Big sister Yami!

Yami: We need to be careful with him. Other than his varied skills in combat, he might still have some power we didn't see yet.

Mea: Right. I'll be more careful.

Having waited enough, Ion flies forward, rushing at them, and with both of them doing the same, clashing into an epic fight. The fight was going on for some minutes now, with Ion fire-breathing, kicking and slicing at them, and with them defending, avoiding, and attacking when they were getting the chance, only for him to heal any injury he was receiving like it's nothing special. Eventually, both of them decide to fly away, with Ion following from behind, wanting to find the chance to strike him hard when he least expects it. He was already starting to show signs of fatigue, so this might be what they were waiting for. They prepare their blades, but then they notice two figures waving at them from afar. It was Momo and Nana.

Mea: Momo-Chan and Nana-Chan?

Nana: *Loudly* This way! Lead him this way!

Momo: *Loudly* Trust us!

Mea: *Looks At Yami*

Yami: *Looks At Mea And Nods*

Both of them fly toward them, leading Ion where they want him, while flying close to the ground. When Yami and Mea pass past Momo and Nana, Momo is getting ready for something, while looking at Ion coming fast. When he gets close enough, it was time.

Momo: Now!

By saying that, from below the ground, and where Ion was flying at, multiple thick plant-vines emerge fast, catching him by surprise, and grabbing him from every part of his body, while also pulling him and forcing him with his front onto the ground, holding him there.

Nana: *Serious* Quick, before he frees himself!

Ion raises his head, and multiple bone-vines come from his body, piercing some of the plant-vines, while Momo runs with the flower in her hand toward him.

Ionas (Shadow): *Furious* I will-!

Just before he does or says anything else, Momo brings the flower in front of his nose, forcing him to smell it.

[The Music Stops Playing In The Area]

Ionas (Shadow): *Gasps In Shock* *Trembles*

Yami and Mea land and approach as soon as they notice Ion's strange behavior.

Yami: What did you do to him, princess Momo?

Momo: I made him smell a flower that is known for changing someones personality.

Nana: *Smile* This might be what he needs to come-

Ionas (Shadow): *Stressed* No, NO!

Ion's body and face begin to act in a strange manner, as if he is about to change.

Nana: *Sweat Drop* What?!

Momo: *Sweat Drop* That's not how it-

Yami: *Alarmed* Everyone step back!

All four move back some feet, keeping their distance from Ion who seems to be changing. At the moment, Rito and Mikan are watching from a distance at them, while hiding themselves behind a broken wall.

Mikan: *Sweat Drop* What is going on with him?

Rito: *Sweat Drop* Not sure, but let's hope he will not turn into a monster.

Meanwhile, Ion's skin and face start to become red and black, and four long black tentacles violently emerge from his back. The plant-vines around him begin to wither and turn into dust while he keeps on changing.

Ionas (Shadow): *Holds His Head* *Really Stressed* I was so close, so f*cking close! You can't do this to me! Not like this!

Everyone were watching in shock, as the last parts of the transformation were taking place. His limbs become a little longer, and change in such a way, that it forces him to stand on all four like an animal, with his hands and feet becoming long fingered and clawed. Lastly, his nose is submerged inside his face, leaving only two small holes behind, and his mouth seems to be able to open more widely, revealing that his teeth are now red, long, and needle like. [To Make It More Simple, Think Of Him As A Combination Of The "Carnage" From "Spiderman", And "SCP-939" From "SCP Foundation"]

Yami: *Real Concerned* ... I sense a tremendous amount of bloodlust. A lot more than he was showing minutes ago. I have never felt something like this in the past.

Momo: *Sweat Drop* Oh no, this is terrible!

Nana: *Sweat Drop* What have I done?!

Mea: *Smile* *Cheeky* You messed things up real bad.

Momo: *To Mea* *Sweat Drop* This is not the time to joke around!

After stopping on changing, the beast that Ion has become lifts his head and looks at them. Saliva falls from his grinning mouth, as his body starts to twitch in an unsettling manner.

[The Music "Hunter of the Dark" From "Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep" Starts To Play In The Area]

Ionas (Distorted Shadow): *Drooling* *Menacing* I will eat the flesh from your bones. *Sinister Chuckle*

The beast jumps to the side, and starts to run fast in a big circle around them, while staring at them.

Yami: *Alarmed* Scatter!

While saying that, Yami runs fast toward the beast, readying her blades to attack, while the other three do as she said by running to different directions. The beast sees Yami apporaching, and jumps to avoid her incoming attack. He then extends his claws and spins fast verticaly, as he is falling toward Yami, with her jumping away, avoiding the attack as he lands onto the ground. Mea then starts to shoot at him from afar with laser beams, hitting him three times and disintegrating parts of flesh from his body, only for him to heal it just as fast.

Mea: *Somewhat Annoyed* He heals way too fast! Not fair!

The beast make a strong leap toward Mea, with her dodging the last moment, only to be then caught by his tentacles, that grab her by all four of her limbs, and then pulling her forcefully down onto the ground. The beast attempts to bite her, but is shot to the face by her ponytail, after she turns it fast into a laser gun, forcing it to back away a little, with her then slicing the tentacles using the ponytail to form a blade, freeing herself and allowing her to move away and run to a better position. The beast heals completely and continues pursuing Mea again.

Momo: *Serious* Got your back!

Momo uses her D-Dial to summon to the ground some of her big Cannon Flowers, which start shooting at the beast, injuring him and stopping his movements, while also raising a dust cloud from the ground, covering the beast as it is being shot continuously.

Momo: *Frustrated* (I'm sorry, Nana. But we have no other choice remaining. We tried everything possible. Please forgive us.)

The beast jumps out of the dust cloud, and spins around itself at incredible speed, launching bone-spikes off his body toward all directions. Everyone else find the chance to take cover using the debris around, while Momo uses her plants for cover. The upper most sensitive parts of the flowers are pierced through, and ripped apart by the spikes, leaving only the lower parts still standing, as the beast stops spinning and throwing spikes, while landing onto the ground again. Yami, Mea, and Momo leave their cover, and launch another attack at the beast, with their own way each, continuing their epic fight. Meanwhile, Nana was behind of a ruined wall alone, stressed, and thinking.

Nana: *Stressed* Come o~n! There's got to be a way to end all of this, and save Ion as well! *Deep Thinking* Think now. There is no way that ghost simply decided to push the "self-destruct button", ruin his "show" just like that, and call it a day. (He must have given us a clue or something. He is known to talk in a cunning manner most of the time. Must think like he does, as much as that thought irritates me. Ok... He said that time, that killing him is ONE way to break him free. But, never said it's the ONLY way really. I must focus, and remember everything he told us till now!)

*She remembers Kremant talking about how Ion's power keeps him trapped inside his own mind*

Nana: *Gasps In Realization* That's it! How did I not-?

Nana takes a careful look out of her cover, looking at the ongoing fight, till she sees Mea flying at the distance, firing laser beams at the beast.

Nana: *Loudly* Mea!

Mea hears her from afar, and looks at her.

Mea: Nana-Chan?

Nana: *Loudly* Come here quick!

Mea flies close to Nana.

Mea: What is it?

Nana: *Serious And Smiling* I know what to do to save him!

Mea: *Sweat Drop* Nana-Chan, I know that you like senpai, but-

Nana: *Serious* No, listen! It's the only thing we didn't try yet! Hear me out, please.

Nana says her idea to Mea, while the fight continues at the background.

Mea: *Sweat Drop* Nana-Chan, that's-

Nana: I know it's very risky, but-

Mea: *Sweat Drop* No, that's not what I mean. Remember the time Ion-Senpai told everyone at that mansion about my little attempt to Psycho-Dive into his mind, and what I went through because of that? If we try to get into his mind again, it will just kick us out the same way. And it's not a nice feeling.

Nana: ... Mea... *Serious* You trust me, right?

Mea: *Smile* Of course I do, Nana-Chan. We are friends.

Nana: *Serious* Then... Will you trust me enough, to help me try saving him, one last time?

Mea: ...

Meanwhile, the fight continues with Yami and Momo against the beast. So far there is no clear winner. But the two girls begin to feel tired after fighting for so long, unlike the beast which doesn't show any signs of tiredness at all.

Momo: *Tired* This is not good, at this point we will-

That moment, the beast starts to smell the air, and then looks at the direction where Mikan and Rito are hiding. Mikan decides to take a look at the situation, and sees the beast looking straight at her.

Mikan: *Sweat Drop* ...

Ionas (Distorted Shadow): ... *Unsettling Grin* Fresh meat!

Momo: *Alarmed* Rito-San, Mikan-San, run!

By saying that, the beast starts to run toward them, making them both to start running for their lives. Yami flies after the beast, wanting to reach him, before he reaches them first.

Rito: *Concerned* Come on, Mikan, we need to run faster!

Mikan: *Sweat Drop* I can't run faster-WHOA!

Not being careful enough, Mikan stumbles against some rock on her way, and falls onto the ground.

Rito: *Alarmed* Mikan!

Rito goes back, and crouches to check on her and help her to stand, but then he sees the beast running way too fast toward them. In a last attempt to save his sister, he brings her close to him, with his back now being toward the beast.

Mikan: *Sweat Drop* Rito...

Rito: *Smile* It's ok. I will protect you.

The beast gets closer and closer.

Yami: *Real Concerned* (That's not good, at this rate-!)

While he was running after Mikan and Rito, the beast suddenly jumps backward, catching Yami by surprise, as it turns around and bites her right shoulder, sinking his sharp teeth deep into the flesh and bone, with a loud crushing sound being heard at that moment.

Yami: *Screams In Pain, Which She Cuts Short* *Struggles With Pain*

Rito: *Panic* Ah!

Mikan: *Panic* Yami-San!

The beast keeps on holding onto Yami with his jaws, while licking the blood from her wound at the same time. Yami brings fast her left hand-blade along with one blade from her hair inside the beast's mouth, and slices most of his teeth off, breaking free from his jaws, as they both fall and land onto the ground. Yami now had Rito and Mikan, behind her, with the beast being in front of her. She was holding her bleeding wound, that was filled with the beast's broken needle-like teeth, struggling with the pain. The beast regenerates his lost teeth, and now has again a mouth full of them.

Mikan: *Real Concerned* Yami-San, are you-?

Yami: *Struggles With Pain* Don't worry about me, get away from this place. As fast as you can.

Rito: *Concerned* We can't just leave you!

Yami: *Struggling And Serious* If you don't he will-!

Before she finishes that sentence, she notices the beast leaping toward her, and about to reach her. The last moment, a laser beam passes past Yami, hitting the beast straight to the face, and making him fall down onto the ground, holding his face in pain. Everyone looks surprised, and then notice Mea and Nana approaching fast from behind.

Rito: *Sweat Drop* Mea, Nana!

Nana: It seems that we came just in time.

Mea looks at Yami's awful wound.

Mea: *Sweat Drop* That's a nasty wound.

Yami: *Struggles With Pain* He caught me by surprise. I'll be fine.

At the moment, Momo finally reaches the rest.

Momo: *Sweat Drop* Ah, everyone is he- *Notices Yami's Wound* *Panic* Yami-San!

Yami: *Annoyed* Enough with this already, look!

The beast seems to be about to recover. When he looks at them, Mea shoots him in the face one more time, making him hold his face while flailing in place onto the ground from pain again, and screaming about it.

Nana: *Upset* Mea!

Mea: What? He can heal it, you saw him.

Momo: *Serious* We have him now. *Ready To Summon Something Through Her D-Dial* Let's finish th-

Nana: *Sweat Drop* Wait, Momo!

Momo: Eh?

[The Music Stops Playing In The Area]

Nana: I want you to summon some of your vines to hold him down, like the last time.

Momo: Why?

Nana: *Serious* Mea and I will try to Psycho-Dive into his mind, and free him from Kremant's control.

Everyone were surprised hearing that, and wonder if it's a good idea considering how much their other attempts failed.

Nana: *Serious* I know that I made you go through a lot to save Ion, but I want you to trust me on this. This IS the only thing that might be what we need to do.* If we fail... *Saddened* Then I will accept whatever has to happen.

Momo: ... Fine.

Momo summons many of her plant-vines, holding the beast still onto the ground, as he struggles to free himself, with his face being close to regenerating completely.

Momo: *Serious* But it's the last time. If you don't bring him back with that... *Sigh* Just please, be careful.

Nana: I will.

Nana and Mea approach carefully the beast, looking at it determined.

Ionas (Distorted Shadow): K-K-Kill me~... I b-b-beg of you...

Nana: *Determined* Don't worry, Ion, we are coming for you. Mea.

Mea: Here we go!

Mea connects her ponytail on both Nana's and the beast's foreheads, and they both Psycho-Dive into his mind.

~Inside Ion's Mind~

Mea and Nana are inside, as they look at the dark surrounding.

Mea: We must go deeper. Follow me.

Nana: Right!

They both start to dive deeper into the darkness of his mind, till they see a small light deep down.

Mea: *Alarmed* That's it! Get ready, Nana-Chan!

As they dive closer, the light suddenly becomes furiously bright, with a continuous loud screaming being heard from everywhere, with both girls covering their eyes and ears in response.

Mea: *In Pain* *Loudly* It's just as bad as I remember!

Nana: *In Pain* *Loudly* What?! Anyway, we must keep going!

Mea: *In Pain* *Loudly* What?! I can't hea-!

Nana moves closer to the light.

Mea: *In Pain* *Loudly* Wa-Wait for me!

Both of them approach the light as much as they can, while trying to stand its brightness and the loud screaming. When they reach a little closer, they feel as if the light starts to push them backward, like a strong wind.

Mea: *In Pain* *Loudly* Ah, that's not good, it tries to push us out!

Nana: *In Pain* *Loudly* I'm not giving up after everything that happened! Not just like that!

Nana tries as much as she can, moving closer and closer to the light with difficulty, but surely, while Mea tries to not be pushed out. While Nana moves deeper into the light, she notices something in the middle that resembles a golden bright mask with aggressive face and a wide open mouth.

Nana: *In Pain* (That must be it!)

She attempts to approach the mask, pressing against the light's strong push, while extending her hand to touch it.

Nana: *In Pain* *Struggling To Reach* Just... A little... Mo~re!

After trying her best to reach, she finally grabs the mask with one hand.

Nana: *In Pain* *Smile* Got you!

The moment she has it in her hand, the bright light, the pushing, and the screaming stop in an instant, and the golden mask's face seems to change into a more calm one, with closed eyes and mouth. Mea approaches with excitement.

Mea: *Amazed* Nana-Chan, you did it! You're the best!

Nana: *Rubs Her Head In Embarrassment, Flattered* Couldn't let it kick us out after all the trouble we went through to get this far now, could I?

Mea: So, this is what was making all that fuss.

Both of them look at the mask, and notice that it resembles Ion's usual face.

Nana: ... I think we should keep it. Just in case.

Mea: Sure.

Nana: Let's continue, Mea.

Nana and Mea continue to dive through the darkness, till they are suddenly pulled by some invisible force forward, at incredible speed, till they stop in front of a chained to the darkness figure, to their great surprise.

Mea: *Sweat Drop* Well, that was new.

Nana: *Looks At The Chained Figure In Realization*

The one covered in chains in front of them, was Ion. He was literally covered and chained from head to toe with what looks like iron chains, with only his face being shown. His head was lowered, with his eyes filled with tears, and appeared to be half-unconscious and weary.

Nana: *Saddened* Ion... (After going through so much, it's not a surprise he looks like that. Why must he suffer so...?) *Serious* Let's get him down, Mea.

Mea: *Smile* Right aw-!

Before she finishes that sentence, a bright barrier with a big lock in the middle appears suddenly, preventing them from approaching him.

Voice From The Barrier: Stop!

The girls are surprised by the barrier's appearance, and the voice that is heard within.

Nana: *Annoyed* Hey, what is this now?!

Voice From The Barrier: If this one's freedom is what you seek, you must first answer these questions three, if that's why you truly want to proceed! One may approach, answers to give. Only then it will be, when I speak.

Mea: Eh~, to free senpai, we must answer to three questions? Sounds boring. *Smile* I say we force it open.

Nana: Wait, Mea! I think we should not do such thing. If Kremant made this, then it is most likely to bring more trouble than good for us.

Mea: Then what-?

Nana: I will go answer its three stupid questions.

Mea: *Sweat Drop* *Smile* Don't get me wrong, Nana-Chan, but your grades are not the best.

Nana: *Annoyed* My grades are not that bad!In any case, we need to save him, so we don't have much of a choice but play by that ghost's rules.

Nana starts to approach the barrier.

Nana: Wish me luck.

Mea: *Smile* Good luck!

Nana is now in front of the barrier.

Nana: *Determined* Ask me the questions, barrier!

Voice From The Barrier: What... Is your name?

Nana: *Determined* Nana Astar Deviluke.

Voice From The Barrier: What... Is your quest?

Nana: *Raises An Eyebrow* (Quest?)* *Realizes* Oh! *Determined* To save Ion!

Voice From The Barrier: What... Is your favorite color?

Nana: *Sweat Drop* Eh? Well, to tell the truth, I don't really have one. *Serious* Anyway, will you ask me the questions now, or-?

Voice From The Barrier: The deed is fulfilled.

Nana: *Sweat Drop* What?

That moment, the mask Nana was holding, turns into a big key.

Voice From The Barrier: Insert the key, and he will be freed.

Nana: ... *Surprised* (Those were the questions?!)

Nana could not believe how stupidly easy that was.

Mea: That easy?

Nana: *Annoyed* Bet that ghost made it like this to mock us. That annoying...* *Sigh* Whatever, *Serious* time to set you free, Ion.

Ion lifts his head slowly, looking at her with a depressed face.

Nana: *Feels Bad* It's about time you have some rest from all of this.

Without losing anymore time, Nana places the key inside the keyhole, and turns it around. After doing that, a bright light starts being emitted from the barrier, growing stronger and stronger, till only the light itself can be seen.

~Out Of Ion's Mind~At The Town's Ruins~

Everyone else were waiting, till they finally see Nana and Mea coming back to reality.

Momo: Did it-?

Nana: *Joyful* It worked!

After saying that, Ion's body and face were already back to normal. Momo orders her plant-vined to release him, revealing his filled with injuries body. Even the black clouds at the sky left, allowing the blue sky, and the sun to appear again. Ion was starting to open his eyes.

Ionas: *Weary-Like* Nana...? Everyone...?

Everyone were filled with joy, as they realize that Ion is finally himself once again.

Momo: I can't believe it. *Joyful* He is back!

Rito: *Joyful* We thought we will never see you again. Glad you are back, friend!

Mikan: *Joyful* What a relief. Welcome back, Ion!

Ionas: *Upset* What are you so happy about?! Look around you!

Ion was pointing out the ruined town.

Ionas: *Saddened* The town is in ruins. Many of the people are dead or dying! And those who remain, will have to live on with this nightmarish memory. And all that because I could not control myself...

Tears start to fall from Ion's eyes, making everyone sad about the fact.

Nana: *Sweat Drop* I-It's not your fault! Kremant is-!

Ionas: *Frustrated* I'm still the one who did all of this!

Nana: ...

Ionas: *Depressed* I am the one who destroyed the town... The one who killed all those people... The one who even harmed you! No matter how you see it, it is still MY fault all of this. I... *Weeps* I utterly destroyed the little peace we had...

While still down, with his back onto the ground, Ion begins to quietly cry, depressed about everything that happened.

Nana: *Feels Real Bad* Ion...

Kremant: You absolute beasts!

Everyone looks around, and then notice Kremant appearing beside them.

Kremant: *Oddly Incredibly Surprised* You actually did it! You were able to stop him without killing him! *Real Pleased* Now THAT is what I call a great show! Congratulations to you all!

Everyone look at him, frustrated or confused, while Ion keeps on crying in a quiet manner about what he did. Nana approaches him, her face filled with aversion.

Nana: *Aversion* It's still hard to believe all the things you forced Ion to do. You made him destroy the town he was calling home. Made him kill the people of the said town. Almost do "things" to some others! And made him to almost kill the ones he cares about, just so you can sit down and enjoy your wanna be "show". You might have turned him into a monster... But it's YOU who is the real monster!

Kremant: *Grin* A monster you say?

Everyone but Ion, go beside Nana, while looking at Kremant together in a negative, or somewhat negative manner.

Kremant: Maybe you're right. But... *Big Grin* You must at least agree that I'm a monster that knows how to give nice gifts.

The moment he says that, he snaps his fingers, and the whole town is suddenly back to the way it used to be.

Nana: *Sweat Drop* Wha-?

Everyone were surpised about it. Then they notice that multiple people have appeared out of nowhere as well, recognizing some as the deceased that died during Ion's invasion. They were now beyond surprised.

Nana: *Incredibly Surprised* Eeh~?!

Ionas: *Looks Around, Incredibly Surprised* ...

The people who came back look around them, really confused as to what happened.

Momo: *Sweat Drop* Those people...

Mikan: *Surprised* Yami-San!

Everyone notice that Yami's wound in her shoulder is completely healed to their surprise, as if she was never bitten there to begin with.

Rito: *Sweat Drop* How did-?

Kremant: And that my friends, is how in just one moment, everything is back to normal. I repaired all the damage around the town, brought the people's souls back to their original bodies, and-

Nana: *Raises An Eyebrow* Wait, to their original bodies?

Kremant: Before that great event started, I made sure that almost everyone's bodies are replaced with similar replicas, while the original ones were stored away to avoid being damaged. All I had to do, is move the souls back to their original bodies, and then wipe the memory of the "slaughter" from the brains of both the dead and the living, as to avoid any serious PTSD damage from happening. They now all think that Ion has only caused damage to the town, and those who died think they simply pass out, with all witnesses thinking they saw that happening themselves. *Waves Hand To Make Air For Himself* Was not as easy as it sounds, believe it or not.

Everyone were out of words. There was only one question.

Ionas: *Confused* Why do that at all, after making me go to all that trouble?

Kremant: It's my reward to our friends, for being able to survive, beat you up, and actually save you from yourself. *Wink* I might be a big jerk, but even I know rewarding someone for a job well done, is a must.* *Pleased* Especially after giving me such a nice show to watch! Loved the tension in it!* *Sinister Grin* Still, I might have erased the worst moments from everyones' minds, but you all who stand, *To Ion* and lie down before me, *To The Rest* the main characters as we call you, will have to live on with this memory, so you can always remember what really happened here. That, is the only thing I leave as it is. *Amused Chuckling*

Ionas: *Frustrated* Why, you...

Ion tries to get up, but has a hard time even lifting his torso, as he lets it fall down again. Everyone then sees how he is gasping suddenly, sweating, and looks as if he is losing his consciousness little by little.

Nana: *Real Concerned* Ion!

Nana crouches close to him in worry.

Nana: *Real Concerned* What is going on? Are you ok?

Ionas: *Gasping And In Great Pain*I feel... *Gasps* I don't know how to describe it...

Kremant: He appears to be dying.

Nana: *Sweat Drop* What?!

Everyone's expression, most of them at least, fills with shock after hearing that.

Kremant: Considering what his body went through, I'm not surprised about the results. After the transfomation got canceled, all that energy he used to heal himself all this time, now hits him like a falling building. He might not have much time left.

Nana: *Shocked* No! That can't be! After all the trouble we went through to bring him back...* You!

Nana gets up, and points at Kremant.

Nana: *Serious* You made this body for him! Help him! It's the least you can do after-!

Kremant: *Shakes Head* No can do.

Nana: Wha-? *Upset* Why?!

Kremant: Only HE can help himself now. If I interfere with his Energy System, it might prove catastrophical for everyone around him. Is that what you want?

Nana: *Upset* There must be SOMETHING you can do! You can't just leave him like this! *Tears Start To Fall* Not like this!

Ionas: Nana... (When I transformed, I could see her. See into how much trouble she went for me. Believing I was still in there. Trying her hardest to save me, without giving up. Showing how much she wanted me to come back.)

Ion that moment realizes his feelings, which could not deny anymore.

Ionas: *In Great Pain* Nana...

Hearing him, Nana crouches close to him again.

Nana: *Real Concerned* Yes, Ion?

Ionas: *In Great Pain* I don't know how much more time I have... So, before the darkness takes me-

Nana: *Upset* No, don't say that! You will be-!

Ionas: *In Great Pain* What I want to say, Nana, is... That I... I...

Before he says more, he loses consciousness.

Nana: Ion...? *Real Shocked* Ion!

~Hours Later~

Because of Kremant's decision to spare the people of this town, the everyday life returned to its normal pace, if only in a way. The people didn't know about the killings, since they really had no memory of it, and with all the buildings and roads repaired, they were just happy that nothing really bad happened. As they see it, though. At the time, Nana and the others brought Ion to Doctor Mikado, hoping she will be able to help him in some way. After some time inside in her clinic, she comes out.

Nana: *Concerned* How is he? Is he gonna be alright? Tell me he-!

Mikado: I did everything I could, but I'm afraid that it's up to him now. *Sigh* Not gonna lie, things don't look good for Ion.

Nana: ... *Saddened* I see... Thanks for at least trying, Mikado-Sensei...

Mikado places her hand at Nana's shoulder.

Mikado: Don't lose hope now. Nothing is decided yet. *To The Rest* I suggest you all to take him home, and let him rest in his bed for some time.

Rito: We will do so. *Bows Head* Thank you for your hard work, Mikado-Sensei.

~Some More Hours Later~At Rito's House~

With the exception of Nana and Ion, everyone else were in the living room, sitting around the filled with foods table. Lala was there too, still in her small form. She had no idea about what really happened in the town, so they decided to keep the part about the killings a secret, as to not make her feel bad. Momo at the moment looks at the staircase that leads upstairs, expecting to see Nana.

Rito: *Concerned* Still not down, huh?

Momo: I will take her food upstairs later. *Feels Bad* Poor Nana...

Mikan: Let's hope everything is gonna be alright in the end.

~At Ion's Room~

Ion was lying inside his bed, still unconscious, with Nana being close to the side of the said bed, looking at him. Expecting him to wake up soon.

Nana: *Smile* Ion, I brought you your favorite lemonade refreshment at the table beside you, for when you wake up to drink as much as you like. I hope you wake up soon.

...

Nana: *Smile* You know... I never really met someone like you in the past. You are a nice person. A decent guy. And so caring, that you are willing to put your own life recklessly in danger to save those who need you.

...

Nana: *Smile* You saved me and helped me so many times, that I lost count of how many times those were.

...

Nana: You are a really important person in my life... *Tears Start To Fall Slowly*

Nana falls on her knees, with her upper-half touching the side of the bed, and her hands grabbing tightly Ion's sleeve, as she weeps uncontrollably.

Nana: *Weeping* That's why... Please... Don't leave me... Not like this... Not before I even tell you how I really feel for you...!

And with that, she kept on crying quietly at that position... Waiting... Hoping...

[To Be Continue]