~Early In The Morning~On The Way For School~
*Yui was going to school early, since she had a lot of work to do as the head of the Disciplinary Committee*
Yui: (A lot of work to do today, but nothing I can't handle.) *Thinking* Hmm... (I wonder if Nana-San and Ion will accept to join in. It would be nice having capable people I can trust when it comes to the school duties.)
*While walking, a black car with blackened windows comes fast, and stops right beside her, attracting her attention and stopping her by that way*
Yui: Huh?
*Before she can react, two people in black suits from the back seats open the door and grab her fast, forcing her inside the car right before she starts screaming about, only for the screams to be cut short by a piece of fabric on the mouth and nose, with the door closing and the car taking the road to wherever is meant to go*
~Some Time Later~At School~
{Ion's POV}
After talking about it with Nana the other day, we decided to join the famous Disciplinary Committee. Nana said she wants to become a member as a reason to do something more for the school, being inspired by Yui's example and all, and for a chance to increase her grades. Not sure if it works like that, but whatever. As for me, I did it only because she asked me to, saying it will be fun with both of us there, but my hidden reason for wanting to join in is to spend more time with her, obviously. Might even avoid Mea's hug-tendencies that way. I hope at least.
Nana: *Smile* I look forward to see Kotegawa's reaction when she see us both, telling her we want to join her Committee.
Ionas: *Smile* It will be a really pleasant surprise for her, I'm sure about it.
We started looking for her around the school, but after some time of searching, we were starting to wonder-
Nana: Where Kotegawa could be?
Ionas: Maybe she is inside the teachers' room?
Nana: Probably. Let's go check.
When we reach the teachers' main room, we learned from one of them that they received a phone call from Yui's home, telling them that Yui was not feeling so well and couldn't attend to school for the day. Since that was the case, we went on our way for a short walk through the hallways.
Nana: *Feels Bad* Poor Kotegawa.
Ionas: Yeah, it's always bad when you get sick. Well let's face it, she works too hard for her own good.
Nana: *Determined* One more reason to join her Committee. We will take some time off her hands, for her to have some more time to sit and relax!
Ionas: *Rolls Eyes* Only if it is THAT simple. She is a workaholic person after all, don't forget.
Nana: *Sweat Drop* She is not THAT stuck with her work.
Ionas: *Looks At Her With A Bored Look On His Face* ...
Nana: *Sweat Drop* ... Ok, maybe she is a "little bit" more than she should, but-
Ionas: Yeah, yeah, I know. Does it for the good of the school. I understand that. Anyway, since she is not present, we can try asking her again tomorrow, in case she is feeling better. They did say it's nothing THAT bad, so she should be at school the next day normally.
Nana: Yeah, you're right... Oh, by the way, Haruna asked us if we want to come by her house after school to study together. *Smile* Wanna come?
Ionas: Study together? *Smile* Eh, what the hell, sur-
*Ion's Ringtone*
Ionas: One sec.
I take the phone off my pocket, and see an unknown number without any naming.
Ionas: *Raises An Eyebrow* Well, this is strange.
Nana: What?
Ionas: We'll see. *Answers Call* Who is this?
? (On The Phone): *Male Voice* Are you Ionas Dardanidis?
He knows my full name, huh?
Ionas: May I ask who's asking?
? (On The Phone): Someone by the name "Kermit"... No, "Kremant", told me to call this number.
Kremant he said?!
? (On The Phone): If you're the right person, I need to talk to you once alone. Call me as soon as you're sure there is no one else around. It's for an important matter, so please waste as little time as possible. Every second might count.
*The Call Ends*
Ionas: *Troubled* ...
Nana: *Sweat Drop* Ion, is everything ok? Who-?
Ionas: *Serious* Nana, I will need some alone time. I will tell you as soon as I figure out what's this about. I'll see you later.
And with that, I turn invisible and start running away.
Nana: *Concerned*Ion!
~Somewhere At The School Courtyard~
After reaching a secluded place at the courtyard, I cancel the invisibility, to not waste energy unnecessarily, and call the number from before.
*The Call Is Answered*
? (On The Phone): Are you alone?
Ionas: Yes. Now tell me what is this about. Starting with the "who you are" question.
? (On The Phone): ... *To Someone Nearby* Are you sure no one is watching the line?
Kremant (In Distance From The Phone): Oh, totally!
Ionas: *Raises An Eyebrow* Wait, is that Kremant I heard?
Kremant (In Distance From The Phone): *Happily* Hi, friend!
? (On The Phone): *Serious* Let's focus, please!
...
Kremant (In Distance From The Phone): If you're hesitant, know that you don't necessarily need to say your name. Just tell him who you are, to "you know who".
What that accursed ghost is talking about now?
? (On The Phone): ... I am Kotegawa Yui's father.
Ionas: *Surprised* ...
Who now?!
Yui's Father (On The Phone): I'm sure you have heard about my daughter "not feeling well" from someone there at school. That was a lie. Made up for safety reasons.
A lie? What really happened to Yui?!
Yui's Father (On The Phone): The truth is... That my daughter was kidnapped by an unnamed criminal organization.
Ionas: *Real Surprise* ... For real?
Yui's Father (On The Phone): *Frustrated* I wish it was a joke...
This is a lot more serious than I expected! Better not show my distress, and keep serious for now.
Ionas: For what reason would they do something like that?
Yui's Father (On The Phone): You see, recently the police captured their boss, the one responsible for their organization. As the superior lawyer I am, not being pompous about it by the way, I was tasked to assist at the "Court Of Law" several of his organization's victims, help to serve him the appropriate punishment, and eventually put an end to his organization, and punish everyone else involved with it according to the law.
I sense a "but".
Yui's Father (On The Phone): *Frustrated* But the bastard was more prepared than I could expect. After learning that it was ME he was going up against, he devised a plan to take my daughter hostage, when most vulnerable.
Ionas: And let me guess, for her safe return he wants YOU to fail on purpose at the Court, so he can be set free again.
Yui's Father (On The Phone): *Frustrated* Exactly...
A bastard indeed!
Yui's Father (On The Phone): And as you can understand, if I try to inform the police, my daughter will pay the ultimate price. Even now that we are talking, the building I'm staying in for the time being, is being watched from outside by some of his people, to ensure I will not try anything stupid.
Expected.
Yui's Father (On The Phone): And when I realized I couldn't do anything to help her without letting that scum win and continue what he was doing, this cloaked Kremant fellow appeared out of nowhere in my house, telling me there IS a way to save my daughter. And that's why I called you in the first place.
Ah, I see.
Ionas: So in other words, you want ME to go there, get her off the hands of her captors, and return her safely back home.
Yui's Father (On The Phone): He told me you're quite a capable guy, who can get things done without much issue, and also a friend to my daughter. *Frustrated* I know I am asking too much from you, and I know this kind of action I am deciding to make is against the law, I know that well... But desperate times call for desperate measures. I cannot allow them to do as they please, else this will never truly end. Even If they return her back, who says they will not try the same tactic again any time in the future?
Ionas: I understand.
Kremant, this better not be one of your tricks again!
Kremant (In Distance From The Phone): Trust me, it's not this time.
Yui's Father (On The Phone): Eh?
Ionas: *Rolls Eyes* Don't pay attention to him, he reads minds and- Anyway, don't say anything else, of course I will help. She is a friend of mine after all, like you said, and of course I can't leave her in her luck like that.
Yui's Father (On The Phone): ... Thank you. Once I learn my daughter is back home and safe, I will make sure to compensate you for your trouble.
Ionas: Even if you offered nothing in return, I would still not say "no".
Yui's Father (On The Phone): I see... Anyway, I know the location they hold her captive, thanks to your friend here.
Ionas: *Irritated* Not a friend.
Yui's Father (On The Phone): I will send you via a message the street's number, along with a picture of the building you will need to infiltrate.
He makes it sound like we are secret agents or something.
Yui's Father (On The Phone): Remember, your top priority is my daughter's safety. Make sure to not put her life in more danger than she already is. Keep in mind also that this needs to be done before evening. And don't forget, this is between us three only.
Ionas: Not an issue, sir. *Thinking* ...* A question before I close. In what that organization of theirs... "Specializes"?
Kremant (In Distance From The Phone): *Chuckle*
If HE chuckles, I already hate it.
Yui's Father (On The Phone): Specializes? Well, other than the drug dealings, they are mostly known for their illegal prostitution business, which according to reports mostly involve women who were tricked or forced into that business of theirs. Why you ask?
Ionas: *Inhales* ... *Menacing* Further. Justified. Motivation.
I end the call that moment.
*When Ion Ends The Call, A Red String Can Be Seen Retreating From The Phone, Which He Didn't Notice At All*
Ionas: *Sigh* ...
It looks like I will have to say "no" to Nana's study invitation at Haruna's place. Having in mind a simple excuse already, I walk back inside the school building to find Nana.
*From Around A Corner, A Known Red Haired Braid Can Be Spotted, Before A Giggling Smile Is Shown On The Face Of A Familiar Girl*
~After School~
I was able to calm Nana down, after telling her a lie about the phone call being nothing more but one of Kremant's pranks again. I also told her that I promised to someone a bunch of sculptures the other day, and that I couldn't come study with them this time, which she understood, but still seemed so sad about it. EVEN. Further. Justified. Motivation! Anyway, thanks to the message and picture I received, I know exactly where the place they keep Yui is. Once there, and once I take a good look at the place around, I will decide in what way to handle this. Need to be as careful as possible.
~Somewhere In The Town Later~
Looking around a building's corner, I finally see the building I was looking for.
Ionas: Here we are.
What I'm looking at is a tall hotel-like white building. Not sure if it is used as one, but whatever. The front door seems to be guarded by two black suited guys. There are also quite a few black cars on the front, with one person close to the steering wheel's door each, as if they are preparing to step in to drive away at any moment. Other than that, nothing else on the front.
Ionas: Alright, let's check now its surround-
That moment I feel something patting my shoulder. I turn around, and to my surprise I see a smiling Mea standing there.
Mea: *Smile* Hey there, Senpai!
Ionas: *Real Surprised* Mea?! What are you doing here?
Mea: *Smile* I was just passing by and wanted to say "hi". *Gets Closer To Him* What are YOU doing here?
Ionas: *Troubled* Well, I... Wanted some time alone. So I decided to go on a walk on my own.* *Irritated* Mostly wanting to relax from your annoying presence.
I say the last one while pushing her back lightly with my hand at an appropriate distance.
Mea: Oh, really?
Ionas: Really. Now if you don't have an important reason to annoy me, I want you to leave me alone for once. *Frustrated* I deal with you enough as it is at school.
The last bit is not a lie, though. Just using it to cover my intentions here further. I don't need her knowing-
Mea: So that's the place they hold Shameless-Senpai, huh?
She says that as she walks past me while looking at the building I was looking at before.
Ionas: *Real Surprised* How?!
Mea: *Smile* I heard the conversation you had with her father, before following you.* *Wink* When you use your powers your aura is becoming stronger and is easier to draw OUR attention, remember?
Ionas: *Facepalms Himself In Realization And Groans In Annoyance*
Damn it, I forgot about that fact! I didn't even bother to check my surroundings before calling Yui's Father on the phone! Like a f*cking amateur!
Mea: Look, I know that I have been out of line more than you'd like recently. But I don't really mean bad, I'm sure you know that.
She turns to look at me.
Mea: *Somewhat Sad* I'm sorry if I'm being too much of a pain at times to you, Ion-Senpai. I really feel bad for upsetting you. I'm not joking. I hope you can forgive me for that.
Ionas: ...
Now she makes me feel bad for the way "I" treated her before.
Mea: *Smile* So anyway, I will help you save Shameless-Senpai.
Ionas: Eh?
Mea: *Smile* It might not look like it, but she is a friend of mine too. So I can't leave her like this either. Also, don't get me wrong, I know you're a capable guy and all, but this might be a lot more trickier than you think, to do it all by yourself. Won't it be easier to have someone like me to help you out in this? Think about it.
Ionas: *Thinking* ...
That's true, as much as I hate to admit. I could use invisibility to sneak in, but it can take time till I find Yui like that, resulting in me getting way too tired due to overuse. Mea might actually be quite helpful here. Despite her immature behavior, she has a lot more experience in more diverse situations, due to her old life in space. And let's not forget about her unique abilities.
Ionas: Very well. You can help, *Serious* but only if you listen EXACTLY to what I say.
Mea: *Smile* Sure!
Ionas: *More Thinking* ...* Ok, here is what we do. For starters-
*Male Scream Of Anguished Pain Can Be Heard From The Building Drawing Both Their Attention, Before The Scream Stops*
Mea: Wonder what that was about.
Ionas: ... Probably nothing important. Now as I was saying-
~Not Long Later~Inside The Building~
{Yui's POV}
*Yui is seen being inside a small room, tied to a chair, and trying to force the binds off her hands, to no avail. She stops when she sees the door opening, with three men in black suits stepping inside*
Yui: *Upset* You think you will get away with this? Once the police is informed-
?1: If your family wants you back in one piece, they will do no such thing. And I suggest you to watch your attitude while here. We have been quite nice to you so far, no?
Yui: *Frustrated While Looking At Them* ...
I can't believe the situation I'm in... These people should rot in prison for forcing my father to do what they want!
?2: *To ?1* She has quite the fire, doesn't she? *Lecherous Smile* It would sure be nice having some time with her behind these thick walls. See how long she can keep that attitude of hers.
Yui: Eh?
He doesn't mean...
?1: *To ?2* You know well that if we do that, our boss will never get another chance, and we'll go down with him. *Serious* So I expect you to not do anything THAT stupid.
?2: *Rolls Eyes* I know~.
?3: *To ?1* Shall we move on with the procedure?
?1: Yes. Untie her from the chair, and let's move her into the next room, as the safety protocol states.
The two untie my waist and limbs from the chair, keeping only the binds on my hands. The two then grab me from my arms, and force me to step out of the room along with them, showing there are two more outside, making them five in total now. After closing the door behind us, we all begin walking through the hallway to the following destination. I hate it that I can't do anything to get out of this situation! I'm sorry for causing so much trouble for you, father. I should have been more careful. If only...
?2: What is the point of this procedure again?
?1: It's mostly to keep a further eye on her, make sure she doesn't stay seated for too long for her legs to not get weak, so they will not tell us we didn't give her the appropriate care, and to be on the move in case something unexpected happens.
?2: Like what? *Smug Smile* It's not like the police will suddenly come out of nowhere and force their way in.
?1: In any case-
*Loudspeakers Open, Drawing The Attention From Everyone In The Building, Who Stop All Actions*
Kremant (From Speakers): Attention to all personnel! A supernatural horror has invaded the building! Please scream and run around in circles! Have a nice day!
*Loudspeakers Close*
...
?2: *Confused* Wait, what?
*Screams are heard behind them*
Hearing the screams, we look behind us and see one of their people being grabbed by one of his legs by something that looks like a white tentacle behind a corner, throwing him down as he pulls him toward the said corner, while the guy was shooting at whatever it is with his gun and screaming in horror for the duration. Then, a splatter sound is heard, with the gunshots and screams stopping. After that, we see one torn-apart leg being tossed away out of that corner and onto the nearby wall, leaving a bloody mess on it and onto the ground where it then falls. Me along with the other five were shocked by all that.
?3: *Shocked* What the f*ck?!
?1: *Alarmed* Ready your guns!
He and the other two take out their guns and aim at the end of the hallway as they back away some steps behind with the rest and me. We hear slow heavy steps from that direction, one after another, becoming louder and louder as they come closer. What is going on?!
*A white, big clawed hand comes out from the corner, touching and cracking the ground beneath, startling the six who saw it*
We all look in horror as we see the large figure coming out of the corner. What we were seeing was a big and white monster, so big that it was more than halfway to touching the ceiling with its back, and so thick and bulky that it barely fits in the hallway itself. It has teeth like needles, a face that looks like a wild primate, and with no eyes visible. From its back and shoulders, many slow moving tentacles can be spotted, with its arms seemingly having stuck to their sides what look like two, also white, plates with multiple small spikes on them, with both the plates being a little bigger than its own already big arms.
?2: *Shocked* What the hell is that?!
The guy's reaction draws the monster's attention as it snaps its head toward us. It turns its body to face us fully, and then raises its front, standing on its two feet now only, revealing its bloated belly.
Monster: *FERAL SCREECH*
After screaming loudly and eerily at us, the monster falls on all its four limbs again.
[The music "Boss Kobold 2" from "Vindictus" starts playing in the building]
The moment that strange music begins, the monster starts almost immediately to run toward us.
?1: *Alarmed* Sh- Run-Run!
Everyone, including me who was being now carried away by the two, now run as fast as possible the other way, with the other three shooting at the monster while running, with the bullets bouncing off its skin, having no effect on it at all.
?4: *Alarmed* This is doing jacksh*t!
I see the monster being close to reach us! What craziness have I involuntarily involved myself in again?!
*While shooting and running, the guy who is in command of the group sees they are about to reach the other end of the hallway, with another hallway being on the left*
The monster is way too close now!
?1: *Alarmed* Left!
Everyone turns and runs to the left hallway, with the monster being able to grab the last one to move in, and breaking through the wall clumsily along with him, ending up in a room that was behind the said wall.
*Different screams are being heard inside of the said room, as the rest of the group continues to run away*
?3: *Alarmed* He got Kenny!
?4: *Frustrated* That bastard!
?1: *Alarmed* Let's get downstairs, *Takes And Uses His Phone* I'm calling one of the cars.
This is getting really stressful! I don't want to end up like those other people! After a minute of running, we reach the stairs and run down. The one in command seemed to be troubled for some reason.
?2: *Sweat Drop* What's wrong?
?1: *Troubled* No one is answering. That thing most likely got them all already.
?2: *Frustrated* Damn it! What now?!
?1: *Alarmed* We move to the basement! We have to ensure the girl stays safe!
?2: *Alarmed* We have to ensure WE stay safe!
?1: We were on the second floor and now moving onto the first, so we must have enough time to reach our destination before that thing reach US. *Serious* Move on!
After reaching the first floor, ready to run to the next stairs, the part of the ceiling right on top of it breaks, with the falling debris stopping our advance.
?4: *Surprised* Wha-!
Before he finishes that sentence, the guy is suddenly lifted off the ground, floating in place a bit higher of his own height on air, startling us and making us back away a bit. He then just as soon gets stretched, with him screaming about as if in pain. What is going on with-?!
*One of the guy's legs is ripped off that moment as he screams in agony, releasing large amounts of blood from the grievous wound, shocking everyone*
When that happens, a white substance appears on the guy's wound, covering it completely, and stopping the blood-loss. The guy was half unconscious with the pain and with all the blood he lost. Wait, is the blood floating below him? Then, the monster appears out of nowhere below the guy, drenched in blood and holding him, showing it was "it" that did this.
?2: *Shocked* It can turn bloody invisible?!
?1: *Real Troubled* Q... Quickly to the elevator!
The four of us run toward the other way as fast as possible, with the monster screaming as it tosses the guy he was holding to the side, before starting to once again run after us. Even if the other two were not carrying me, I would still run with them than letting that thing get a hold on me!
?3: *Confused* Why just rip a part of him, cover it, and then just leave him?
?2: *Upset* *Sarcastic* Don't know, maybe you can go ask it if SO curious!*
?3: Maybe it's an alien. Or a mutant. *Somewhat Excited* OH! Maybe a mutated alien!
?2: *Upset* Why are you even geeking about it?! That thing is trying to kill us, you buffoon!
?1: *Alarmed* Less talking, more running! We are close!
We see the elevator's door in front of us. When we reach it, one of them presses the button repeatedly.
?2: *Sweat Drop* *To The Elevator* Come on, come on, you stupid thing!
As the monster approaches, it suddenly stops when someone, with the same black uniform like the others, comes through another hallway in front of it.
?6: *Shocking Surprise* What the-?!
Realizing the danger too late, the monster grabs him, and bites the guy's arm off as he screams in agonizing pain, and starts covering the wound like with the previous guy with the white substance that comes from one of the tentacles.
?2: *Alarmed* *To The Elevator* COME O~N!
*The elevator finally reaches the place*
?2: *Relieved* YES!
The guy opens the door, and he along with the other one who was carrying me step inside, with the one in command still staying outside, looking at the monster as it tosses the other unfortunate guy away.
?3: *Sweat Drop* It's coming, get in!
?1: *Serious* I'll lead it away.
?2: *Surprised* What?!
The monster screams and starts to run toward us.
?1: *Alarmed* *In A Hurry* Get in and whatever you do, nothing bad happens to her! GO!*
He presses the button fast that leads to the basement, and forcefully closes the door on us, with the elevator going downward.
?3: *As The Elevator Goes Down* I will remember you~!
*As he looks at the monster who approaches fast, he has a determined look on his face*
?1: *Determined* Want me? Let's see if you can catch me first!
*He runs toward the monster as well, with both being close to crash at each other. The last moment, the guy falls down on his back, and let himself slide beneath the monster*
?1: (Yes!)
*Then almost instantly, one of the tentacles on the monster's back grab the guy by his extended leg, and brings him upside down in front of it*
Monster: *Growling*
?1: *Sweat Drop* ...
Monster: *FERAL SCREECH*
?1: *Screams From Horror*
*The scene is cut the moment the monster is about to use its claws on the guy, with the music also stopping. The scene goes back to Yui and the other two, who are still going down with the elevator*
On the elevator I was placed down for the moment, to sit on my own. The atmosphere was heavy... No one was saying a word... The two are clearly feeling the pressure now. Can't say I feel any better myself, after what I witnessed.
Yui: *Gasping From Stress*
This is too much for me... Someone... Anyone... Please get me out of here... I don't want to end up like those people...!
*The elevator reaches the basement*
?2: Ok, we are here. *To Yui* *Serious* YOU! Get the hell up.
I do as he says, and both of them grab me by the arms again. We move together out of the elevator, and inside the dark basement. One of them presses a switch on the wall to the side, and all the lights open, allowing us see with no problem. We continue walking through the hallway, many doors on the way. The place looks like some sort of underground prison. From some doors, I can hear faint cries, women-like if not mistaken. I think I heard about it from somewhere. About criminals who abduct women and lock them up at an unknown location, and profit from them by using them in the worst ways. This must be it. These shameless people... How can they not feel shame for all this?! After walking some more, we turn left and see a big steel door at the side a little further ahead.
?3: *Smile* Ah, there is the panic room! It should keep us safe.
?2: I doubt that, but whatever.
We go in front of it, the positive guy presses the buttons on it for the password, and then pulls the handle to open the door.
?2: *Serious* Get in, b*tch!
He says that while pushing me inside, making me to almost fall down.
Yui: *Upset* Hey, watch your langu-!
?2: *Serious* One more word out of you, and-!
*Crushing Noise*
?2: *Alarmed* Sh*t, that came from the elevator! It's coming, quickly!
The mean guy gets inside with me, and the other one seems to be looking at the way we came from.
?2: *Upset* What are you waiting for?! Get in!
?3: You know what? I will try to talk to it.
?2: *Upset* Are you for real with this now?!
?3: I mean, we tried everything possible so far. Maybe it's possible to reason with it. Don't know. And will not know, till we try to. Stay inside, while I try this idea of mine. *Enthusiastic* See you soon!
After saying that, he runs toward the way we came from.
?2: *Upset* You will di-! *Groans* Forget it.
By saying that, he closes the steel door, and puts the password to lock it from the inside.
*The scene follows the overly eager guy who went around the hallway and keeps on going*
?3: *Notices* Ah.
*He notices the beast, which seems to be looking inside one of the rooms through the squared opening on the top of the door*
?3: Hey!
*The beast snaps its head toward the guy as it notices him, and with him stopping just in front of it*
?3: *Awkward Smile* So, umm, I come in peac-
*The scene goes immediately back to the other two inside the panic room*
?3: *From Outside* Not the leg, NOT THE LEG-!
*Ripping Noise*
?3: *From Outside* *Screams In Agony* MY LE~G!
After that, we hear a single pounding noise nearby, and then only silence.
Yui: ...
I'm scared!
Yui: *Sweat Drop* W-Will we surely be safe in this room?
?2: *Attention Still Toward The Door* ...
Yui: *Sweat Drop* Hey, are you li-?
He suddenly gives me a strong push, making me fall down on my back.
Yui: *In Pain* Ouch! *Upset* What are you-?!
The man starts to remove the belt off his pants.
Yui: *Gasps In Realization*
?2: *Serious* Something I should have done long ago.
When he removes his belt, he drops his pants, revealing his underwear, and making his intentions clear. Was the monster out there not enough of a problem?!
Yui: *Alarmed* Help me! Somebody-!
?2: *Lecherous* I was holding myself back for far too long, and if I am to die anyway, I might as well have a taste! Get that bottom of yours ready, cause I'm going-!
*The door is forcefully removed and thrown to the side fast that moment, with the monster's hand grabbing the guy from his middle*
?2: *Shocking Realization* No.
*The guy then screams a big long "NO" as the monster pulls him back and out of the room, beginning its work off-screen.
?2: *From Outside* Wait-Wait-Wait, not that one! ANYTHING BUT-!
*Ripping noise followed by the most painfully agonizing scream so far*
Yui: *Greatly Shocked* ...
While down, I move myself back, placing my back upon the wall behind me. As I fear for my life, I see the monster's face through the door, greatly startling me. It then brings its big arm inside, slowly and clumsily trying to reach for me.
Yui: *Trembling From Fear* ...
I'm so terrified that I can't move... I can't even speak... Is this really it for me?
Yui: *About to cry*
*The beast is suddenly being pulled back, retreating its arm from the room*
Yui: Eh?
I hear slashes from outside, with the monster screaming as if in pain, before a crushing noise is heard, and then only silence. What is going on out there? While I was trying to understand, a familiar tall figure steps inside, and looks at me.
Ionas: *Relieved* GOD, glad I was not a second too late!
Yui: *Surpised* Ion?!
Ion runs quickly toward me, and crouches down.
Ionas: I was preparing my grand plan to come save you, when I suddenly see people in a bloody mess and the place inside somewhat in ruins the moment I step in. I followed the ruined trail, till I found you down here.
Yui: *Confused* Wh... What about...?
Ionas: You don't need to worry about that monster anymore.
Ion with a small blade, that appears on his hand for a moment, cuts the binds on my hands, releasing me.
Ionas: *Smile* You're completely safe.
Yui: ... *Tears Start To Slowly Fall*
I hug him tightly from relief and generosity.
Yui: *Emotional And Whimpering* Thank you~!
Ionas: *Hugs Her Back, And Pats Her Back* There, there, everything is gonna be alright now.
He pushes me back a bit to break the hug.
Ionas: Now let's get you out of here, your family awaits.
Yui: Yeah... *Realizes Something* Wait, how did you know I was being held here?
Ionas: Someone who wants to stay anonymous told me about the situation. If I knew a monster would appear too, I would have come here faster.
Yui: I see...
I wonder who is that anonymous person. I will probably never know, but... I thank him too for that. After all that was finally over, we walked out, spotting the decapitated monster and the unconscious guy who was still holding his bloody lower part, it's awful thinking about it, and eventually got out of the building from the back door, just before the police and the ambulance arrive.
~Later At Yui's Home~
{Ion's POV}
*Knocks On The Door*
Yuu (A.K.A Yui's Brother): *From Inside* Who-?
Ionas: I brought Yui.
The door opens as soon as I say that, revealing her brother. He is relieved to see his little sister safe.
Yuu: *Relieved* Yui!
Yui: *Tearfully Happy* Onii-Cha~n!
They both hug each other, happy that everything is alright in the end. Don't shed tears, Ion. No matter how emotional this is, just hold them in this time at least.
Yuu: *Concerned* They didn't do anything to you, did they?
Yui: *Shakes Head* No. *Saddened* I'm sorry for all the trouble I gave you.
Yuu: *Serious* It's not your fault! *Frustrated* Those people are gonna get what's coming to them, you can be sure about it.
Funnily enough, that's already covered.
Yuu: *Smile* Go inside now. Mom is worried sick after what happened.
Yui: Right. *To Ion* *Smile* Thanks again, Ion... For everything.
With that, she goes fast inside her house.
*Happy Reunion Noises Inside*
Ionas: *Big Smile* ...
I'm happy nothing bad happened in the end.
Yuu: *Looking Inside, And Then Turns His Attention To Ion* *Serious* Thank you for getting my sister back. Father was right to trust you on that.
He must have told him about it. Wonder if the mother knows too. At the moment, Yuu searches his pocket, and takes out a piece of paper, which he offers to me. It's a check of fifty thousand dollars worth of yen.
Yuu: Father told me to give you this as payment. He said he is sorry for not giving you more, but he had to make sure to make this as less suspicious as possible. You understand.
I do. But-
*Ion Pushes lightly Yuu's hand with the check back*
Ionas: You can keep it. I have enough as it is already, and you need it more than I do.
Yuu: *Somewhat Surprised* You sure?
Ionas: Yeah. *Smile* If you want, you can see it as my gift to my friend Yui, for the help she gave me back then when I was in need that one time. I owed it to her after all this time anyway.
Yuu: Oh ... *Smile* Very well then. Would you instead like to come inside, so we can properly-
Ionas: I appreciate the offer, but I have to decline. Friends and family expect me at home soon, and can't let them wait more. *Turns Around And Raises Hand High In A "Goodbye" Manner* Time to get going. I wish to you and your family a great day!
And like that, I walk away.
Yuu: See you! (Wow. He is much nicer than Yui said he was. Too bad she already likes another guy, else I would recommend HIM to her.)
*As Ion walks some more, he looks around to see that no one is watching, and then jumps high into the air, before landing onto a building's rooftop. As soon as he does that, a hand-clapping is heard, before turning his attention at an approaching Mea*
Mea: *Smiling And Clapping Her Hands* Well, Ion-Senpai, that was some great work you did there.* *Playful Smile* Or should I better call you "Monster-Senpai".
Ionas: ...
*A flashback shows Ion using his bone-power to completely cover himself, and forming the bone into THE monster, while also making the covered eye-sockets of the said being thin enough for him to see from the inside as he was moving it around with that power, as he was causing the havoc we've seen earlier. The flashback ends there*
Mea: The news are already going crazy about it. *Imitates Reporter* "Amputations everywhere, be it arms or legs, and a strange white substance which was covering them there that disappeared after some time. Said victims speak of a huge and ferocious beast being loose in the building. An exaggeration due to psychological trauma? YOU decide! Whereabouts of said being are currently unknown."*
Ionas: ... Will you judge me for that decision?
Mea: *Amused* Me? Of course not, what are you talking about?* The way I see it, they attacked one of our friends, so it was the least you could have given them. Makes me wonder though, what would you do if instead it was Na-?
Ionas: *Menacing* Putting it lightly, no mercy.
Mea: *Sweat Drop* *Smile* Ha-ha, figures.
Ionas: *Sigh* I just wanted to make sure they will not try to do any vile scheme any time soon again, especially after seeing the crying girls in the basement. *Frustrated* Doesn't mean I am proud of that decision of mine.
I already killed before, as myself or not. I didn't kill these ones, but I would not hesitate if I deemed it was necessary. I have the power and I will use it as I think I must, if my friends' lives are at stake. I kept hidden from Yui the truth about what actually happened, because I know she would see me differently from then on if I told her. And not in a good way, since she is used on knowing me differently.
Mea: So, what was that scream we've heard from before exactly?
Ionas: Oh, that. After climbing to get inside from a close by open window, I saw one of their grunts having a spilled coffee mark on his pants, and some others on another room making comments and laughing about it.
Mea: Ah, I see.
Ionas: Anyway, you did your part greatly as well, Mea.
Mea: *Smiles And Giggles*
*Another flashback shows Mea infiltrating the building disguised as one of their members to gather necessary information using her abilities. Information like the building's inside map for Ion to traverse easier, along with their patrol routines. After gathering everything that was needed to be known, she goes outside again to sabotage their cars by stabbing their wheels' tires. Then while Ion was inside doing his part, she knocks unconscious fast all of the members outside but one of them, who she forces to call and later tell the police everything about them, ensuring they will not annoy anyone any time soon again*
Mea: *Smile* Do as I say, *Brings Blade Closer To His Neck* and you will not lose your head. Not a bad deal, right?
Random Grunt: *Sweat Dropping Like Crazy* ...
*Everything according to Ion's plan. The flashback ends there*
This was much more simple thanks to her.
Mea: You even had Kremant's musical inside, as I was hearing from outside. *Smile* Must have been quite the fun in there for him to do as such!
Typical Kremant and his need for entertainment. Though, if it was not for him, I wouldn't know about Yui's situation, and who knows what would be her fate in the end if I never knew. He is annoying, but even HE deserves "thanks" for that.
Kremant (Via Telepathy): You're welcome, mate!
Shut it, we are still on bad terms! Anyway, what was I thinking? Ah, yes.
Ionas: Well, Mea, I must thank you for the big assistance you gave me. *Smile* I'm really grateful for that. And since you followed my plan exactly as I told you to, and pretty much helped me save Yui, you can ask for anything, appropriate, from me in return. You know, as a reward.
Mea: Even one of your hugs?
Ionas: This time you will deserve it, so I have no problem if you ask for that. So?
Mea: *Thinking* Hmm...* No. *Shakes Head* I don't want anything in return.
Ionas: *Surprised*
She turns her back on me.
Mea: You can see this as my repayment for giving you a hard time that time, and for being a bad and selfish person in general. I don't need to always take what I want, Senpai. *Turns Around Again To Look At Him With A Smile* Getting to see you happy is good enough for me.
Ionas: ... *Happily* Come here, you.
I approach and give her a big tight hug, surprising her.
Mea: *Surprised* *Blush* I-Ion-Senpai?
Ionas: I'll be honest. You're annoying, incredibly shameless, invidious, and pretty much a total pain.
...
Ionas: *Smile* But I like you. Because you have proven to be such a good and wonderful person.
Mea: ... *Big Smile* You really mean that?
Ionas: *Serious* Don't be confused, though. I still can't accept you as a girlfriend, even if I like you. I have chosen Nana, and I will not betray those feelings of mine just like that.
Yami: At least you are staying true to your path.
Ionas: *Surprised* Wha-?
I break the hug, and see Yami landing behind me.
Mea: *Smile* Ah, Yami-Oneechan!
Yami: Hi, Mea.
Ionas: Whoa, whoa, wait! *Raises An Eyebrow* You knew that I-?
Yami: Mikan told me about it some time ago. Even if she didn't, I'm not oblivious like a certain someone. (You.)
Definitely talking about Rito.
Yami: I was watching your movements and actions from a distance, and heard afterward from some people there about what happened. I will not judge your actions, Ion. Not that "I" really have a say in this to begin with. I'm an assassin after all. But... Even if you didn't kill any of them, you caused them serious injuries and wounds. So I ask you this... Would you be able to live with yourself, knowing that you were THAT close to kill someone?
Ionas: *Serious* If it means saving the ones that I deem they deserve better, then yes. *Saddened Sigh*I do not care anymore that much about such thing anyway.
The killing bit I mean.
Yami: *Lowers Head* I see...
Yami lifts her head and walks past me, before stopping.
Yami: I hope you will not regret this decision.
Ionas: ...
Yami: *To Mea* And Mea.
Mea: Hm?
Yami: ... *Thumbs Up* Good job out there. You did well.
Mea: *Smile* Thanks, Yami-Oneechan.
I should feel insulted for treating us so differently, but then I remember that Mea's part in the plan was more morally right than mine.
Mea: *Smile* Say, wanna go out for sweets?
Yami: *Smile* Sure.
Yami grows wings.
Yami: *To Ion* Still, Ion, you did well saving Kotegawa Yui from those people. Me questioning your methods on "how", doesn't mean I'm telling you didn't do the right thing.
And with that, she flies high into the sky. Mea grows wing as well, but as she is about to fly after her sister, she stops.
Mea: Oh. *Turns Her Head Around To Look At Ion* And Ion-Senpai?
Ionas: Hm?
Mea: *Wink* I'm still not giving up on you. See you!
After saying that, she flies after her sister Yami.
Ionas: *Sigh* Whatever.
I feel bad for Mea. Because even if she somehow decided to give up on messing around with Rito, no matter how you see it, I can't just have both her AND Nana, and expect everyone to be acceptive about it. Hope she will understand that one day. Now, time to go back home. Hope they left me something to eat.
~Meanwhile~On Air~
*The scene goes to where Yami and Mea are flying about, with the first being thoughtful about something*
Yami: ... Mea.
Mea: Yes?
Yami: You know that Ion and princess Nana like each other, right?
Mea: *Smile* Yeah. *Amused* And it's funny how they still don't know about each other's feelings.
Yami: Yet you keep on trying to get between them.
Mea: That's not my intention at all! I like Ion-Senpai too, and I don't have any issue sharing him with Nana-Chan.
Yami: *Sweat Drop* ...* Well, in any case I will just ask you to not do something that will mess with their relationship, only because you want to be part of it. You might end up lossing both your friends that way if not careful. And I don't want to see you hurt because of it.
Mea: ... *Smile* You don't have to worry. I would never do something to hurt any of them. *Somewhat Saddened* If they both decide in the end that they don't want that, then I will not press the matter further. *Lowers Head* I just hope I will be able to accept it if that happens...
Yami: Mea... *Looks Around And Points At A Location Below* Let's go on that one. My treat.
Mea: *Lifts Head With A Very Happy Smile* Ah, thanks, Yami-Oneechan!
Yami: (I truly hope you will not get hurt in the end, Mea. I guess only time will show...)
*While Yami and Mea were going flying on their way, the somewhat broken and battered figure of A-H-R-1, the black ant insectbot, appears from the shadowy corner of a building, who looks at the two weapons leaving, and then at Ion who just landed on his feet after falling from the building nearby, before proceeding to walk on the way home, unaware of the robot who is watching him*
A-H-R-1: *Touches his heavily broken eye as he is looking at Ion, seemingly frustrated* ...
*As he is about to make a move, a quiet beeping noise coming from his head stops him, before pressing a button on the side of his head to answer the communication call*
A-H-R-1: A-H-R-1 here.
B-R-200 (From The Communicator): Ah, good, you're indeed still active! After the loss of your team we were unsure if you were still active, or deactivating slowly due to severe damage. Normally we wouldn't be allowed to inform you about anything due to orders, but this is a matter of importance.
A-H-R-1: Continue.
B-R-200 (From The Communicator): We just received a message from our scouts that the king of Deviluke himself has landed on Earth. We don't know the reason of his appearance, but after learning about it, our emperor gave us strict orders to stay out of view till he is gone, to ensure he will keep on ignoring our existence. That goes for you too. Do not engage in any action no matter what.
A-H-R-1: Understood, sergeant.
B-R-200 (From The Communicator): I'm also sorry for not being able to provide you with any kind of reinforcements. But these are our orders. We can't help you in any way.
A-H-R-1: No need for worry, I can still succeed in my mission.
B-R-200 (From The Communicator): I hope so... I need to close communication now. We will inform you once the Devilukian king is gone. Good luck to you from here on... My friend.
*Communication Ends*
A-H-R-1: *Frustrated* (It seems that I cannot make a move just yet. I will have to wait till I am sure that individual is out of the way. Just wait, you bastard, the time comes for you!)
Kremant: I really like it when a plan comes together!
Ionas: Thankfully, not against me this time.
Kremant: Yes. THIS time.
Ionas: Oh lord...
Kremant: Next time on To Love-Ru: The Reshaped Trick!
Ionas: JUST LEAVE ME THE F*CK ALONE WITH THAT BULLSH*T ALREADY!