Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

"AAAAAAHHHHHHH!"

The scream of a villainous scientist was heard as he descended at a fast rate into the island from his blimp, next to his fortress that was in flames, after suffering a humiliating defeat by the hands of what could've been his greatest creation. That creation being Crash Bandicoot himself, who defeated the scientist known as Dr. Neo Cortex, to rescue his girlfriend and sister from his clutches after a long and tough journey through the Wumpa islands. Now he was in the mines after crashing through the ground, which luckily for him, didn't cause a cave in as he tried to look through the darkness to see where he is, only to see black. So he lit up his match to illuminate the room as he looked around with a cough at where he is only to see blue Crystals all over the walls. But one that was in front of him caught his attention, this one being purple and shining in the match's light.

Which caused him to cackle a bit. "Crystals… Of course." He said, before snapping his fingers, which were the ones holding his match as he accidentally put out the flame, making the cavern dark again. "D'oh!"

*One year later*

It has been quiet on the Wumpa islands ever since Cortex's defeat by Crash's hands, the sky was still bright cyan blue, with the bright sun in the air, and the clouds were a peaceful white color as they floated over the islands. And on one of the islands, was where the three Bandicoots lived for a year on.

The three Bandicoots, being Crash himself, the Bandicoot that defeated Cortex, Coco, his sister who happened to be smart for a young girl Bandicoot, and Crash's girlfriend whom he rescued, being Tawna herself. Both of whom, were close together after Crash went through a lot to save her from Cortex's clutches. Pretty much to where they were inseparable, at least in long periods. Much to Coco's amusement and occasional slight embarrassment.

It was no different here, as it was morning time when the sun ended up shining through the window, with Crash waking up due to the rays hitting his eyes, much to his irritation as he tried to continue his nap in the bed. But he conceded when he knew the sun isn't letting up with the brightness as he got up like he was nonverbally saying "Alright! Alright! I'm up!" as he got out of bed. Now he was yawning as he stretched his back, before looking at the interior of the house he's in.

The house that he lived in with his sister, and his girlfriend, was built from wood and stone from the pieces of the castle to create what Coco describes as their first true home on the islands. Its creation began shortly after Cortex's defeat, when Coco, Tawna, and Crash used the wood from some of the trees of Wumpa island that they floated to on Cortex's dirigible, which they used pieces of after it ended up crashing and being unusable since none of them could land the dirigible properly. And it took at least 1-2 months for the bandicoot trio to finish the house and paint it into what it is now, and they also improved on it ever since. Adding a bathroom, a kitchen, and even a garage and basement where Coco works.

Now though, it's just Coco, and Crash's girlfriend sleeping inside as he got out of bed and headed to the bathroom, not noticing that another figure that was in the bed was also waking up as she stirred too, noticing that Crash was out of bed.

Crash made it to the bathroom after a short walk, entering as he scratched his back and did some more stretching for his back to wake him up a little more before entering his bathtub, which he filled up before taking a dip inside after taking off his pants, and shoes, making himself indecent. They might have some plumbing added in, but they have yet to add in a shower, so Crash had to contend with a bath. Not that he complained despite feeling nervous of the water since he can't swim well.

Once he relaxed in the warm waters of the tub, he ended up looking out the window at the island's trees as he smiled at how he was able to save those islands from Cortex. And since the islands were pretty in his and his sister's eyes, why could he not? And he also smiled at how he was able to save his girlfriend from Cortex too as Tawna also cared about the islands, and she did thank Crash for saving her and the islands from Cortex's wrath with a kiss, and… more than that later on as they lived with each other and Coco on one of the islands that they built a house on.

Something that Crash appreciates, other than dancing, taking naps on the ground, and traversing the jungles with his parkour moves alongside his sister or girlfriend.

Speaking of whom, Crash ended up feeling something soft on his back, as well as arms on his shoulders after he sat on the edge of the tub, which initially startled him before he figured out who's behind him. "Surely you aren't leaving me so cold and lonely in our bed that we share, are you?" That female voice said as Crash smiled at the owner of the voice.

None other than his girlfriend and the lady he rescued, Tawna herself. Whom he loved dearly.

Crash ended up shaking his head in response, nonverbally telling her that he didn't intend to do that. Also showing that even though he is athletic, he couldn't speak any words that isn't "Whoa!" let alone sentences, other than grunting, gibberish, and laughing out loud. And yet Tawna is able to understand him by expressions, as well as sign and body language.

"I thought so." She said, joining Crash in the tub, showing that she too is indecent as she showed off her buxom looks, and her athletic toned body to him as she seductively smiled at him. Then she entered the tub to join him as they cuddled inside.

Then they both looked up at the window, showing the trees and the sky of Wumpa island. "It's beautiful, right? It's what this part of the world looks like to me." Tawna said.

Crash ended up nodding to her in return as he smiled at her.

Tawna proceeded to smile back at him. "And I thank you Crash. For saving this place from Cortex, alongside me and your sis. And now, we have this house on this island to ourselves because of it. And I thank you so much." She said huskily before kissing Crash on his cheek.

Then they stared out the window together as they thought about their time back when Cortex had them as his experiments and prisoners, before Crash broke out after the Vortex rejected him. Then he then went on a journey through the islands alongside a spirit mask by the name of Aku Aku, to rescue her and his sister from Cortex's clutches. It was a perilous journey, but Crash's athleticism, seemingly never ending energy, and determination, ended up helping Crash throughout the journey until he eventually defeated Cortex, and rescued Tawna and Coco along with the islands.

And now they were both thinking about their future, wondering what they're gonna do now on the islands. Though Tawna feels like she could explore more of the world outside the islands alongside Coco, and Crash, and someday, they could learn more about the world outside the islands. And someday, Crash and Tawna could get married and possibly explore the world together alongside Coco, and their own children.

But for now, they just had to relax together as they cuddled closer to each other as Tawna kept her arms around Crash's shoulders.

Then she started to get seductive. "How bout we finish what we started in bed, before your sis wakes up." She then said with a grin.

Crash nodded with his own grin in return before they then romantically made out inside, and started to get naughty, beginning with a grab on her chest that made her moan with a giggle.

So far, life was good for the Bandicoots.

Little did the Bandicoots know however, the scientist that they faced off against, being Cortex himself, was still alive. And he was up in space in his space station that was designed like his dirigible that he fought Crash on. And he was looking out on earth while another person was inside the room with him. That person being his recently recruited right hand man who goes by the name Nitrous Gin. Or N. Gin for short.

N. Gin, was a robotics scientist who suffered an accident involving one of his experimental rockets that got lodged into his head. He was able to survive it though, but part of his face became robotic to help him survive with the rocket lodged in his head. Despite that though, he is still pretty smart in his field, and he is still a loyal right hand man to Cortex, even though he also happened to be more crazy now than before he suffered the rocket in his head.

And he was currently scanning the power Crystal that Cortex had in his space station and in the scanner that N. Gin is working on as Cortex looked out the window at planet Earth with a frown on his face. The reason why he is, is because of the fact that he had a fallout with N. Brio, who refused to work with him anymore, as well as what N. Gin is about to tell him.

"But Dr. Cortex, to reach full power, we need not only the master Crystal, but also the remaining twenty-five slave Crystals from the surface. *Wheeze* How do you expect to retrieve them, when we don't have any earthbound operatives left?" N. Gin asked in his mechanical voice.

"You fool! Do you think I'm unaware of the situation?!" Cortex responded turning back to N. Gin with a scowl. "No matter. If we don't have any friends left on the surface, then we need to find… an enemy." He said turning back to Earth with a smirk.

"Enemy? *Wheeze* And who could that be?" N. Gin asked.

"My failed creation of course." He said with a small giggle.

It was hours after the event in the house, when Crash was dressed again, now wearing his blue pants, sneakers, and fingerless gloves, and was now outside with his sister Coco, who was typing on her laptop as she saw some gaming clips, and worked on the blueprints of their house's future developments as Crash slept soundly on the ground next to her, while Tawna went off to explore the island for other places to build, as well as exorcise on the island.

Then suddenly, Coco's laptop shut off and went black. Much to her dismay as she hoped she didn't lose any data on the laptop as she tried to turn it back on again, which she didn't succeed at, as she felt that it's cause the battery is dead in her laptop.

Which had her immediately knowing what to do. "Hey Crash, Crash!" She called trying to wake Crash up as she succeeded. "My battery is fried. Make yourself useful big brother, and bring an extra battery for me." She said, while Crash looked at her annoyed before turning on his side, trying to continue his nap, much to Coco's dismay, until she had an idea. "If you do that, I'll see if I can gather enough Wumpa fruit to make a cake for you to eat." She said in a sing song voice, causing Crash to spring up energetically with his traditional spinning move, before saluting her and then jogging through the woods to the path to their house. Much to her amusement. "You're such a dork. But that's why I like you big brother." She said as she waited.

Now Crash was running and jogging through the path in the woods on his way to the house while thinking about the taste of the Wumpa cake that his sister was gonna bake. Along the way, he ended up taking in the scenery of the jungle of the island before him as he looked around at the trees and the bushes with a smile on his face. Finding them to be pretty in his eyes as he jogged on the path to the house.

Which ended up distracting him, as he ended up crossing into a now dressed Tawna's path as they collided into each other, before rolling on the path in a mess of tangled limbs, before landing flat onto her back as they both were stunned with Crash in Tawna's bosom. Once they got their bearings, they looked into each other's eyes before both of them felt red in their faces.

Especially Crash, as he ended up quickly getting up before making gestures with his hands, as well as saying gibberish, saying that he's sorry, and that he should've watched where he was going. All while bracing himself for Tawna's lashing, only for nothing to come out of her.

"It's okay Crash. You didn't watch where you're going. I understand." She said as she stood up and dusted off her pink short sleeved shirt, and her jean shorts that reached above her knees. "I didn't expect you to cross my path either, so I should be at fault too. Nevertheless, where are you going?"

Crash ended up making more hand gestures while also using a stick to draw a picture of a battery on the ground. "You're going back to our house to find a battery for your sis?" She asked, getting a nod from Crash in return.

"Mind if I come too? I could be of some help in finding a battery for your sis too." She requested, causing Crash to wonder if he'll let her come with him to the house. Before he then nodded with a smile, telling her yes. "Thank you honey. Let's go!" She then said while kissing Crash, before joining with Crash in jogging on the path to their house together.

Tawna also happened to be athletic too, as she's able to keep up with Crash during their jogging times on Wumpa island in their times of peace. She also happens to know how to spin like Crash can after he taught her and Coco how, though she can do that with a pirouette alongside Coco too. And it shows, as she was neck in neck with Crash like it was a race on their way to their house, while also taking out some creatures in their path with their spin moves.

Suddenly, they came across four pillars that was in their path, while there was golden dust in their path as they were spinning around like an invisible sloppily made mini tornado was in the center of them, causing them to stop and stare at the dust in wonder. "What is this… stuff?" She asked, getting a confused shrug from Crash in return.

Whom was curious about the dust as he started to walk closer with Tawna in tow. "Careful Crashie." She said, using her nickname for Crash. "I've got a bad feeling about this."

Soon after she said that, they were in the center, and Crash started to vanish with the gold dust. "Whoa!"

And since he had his hand in Tawna's, she too was vanishing with him as she made a startled yell while getting teleported, and in their pov, they started to see white as it got brighter to where it took up all of their vision. Soon they were gone as the four pillars also started to vanish.

Now both Bandicoots were in a blue room that had five doors, as they groaned at the feeling of lightheadedness of getting teleported. Once they got their bearings, they both looked around the room in shock as they saw the five doors that had brightly shining spirals in them. Then they ran around the room, trying to find a way out, only to see none other than those five doors. And neither Bandicoot knew which one leads back to their home. Other than the names above the portals, some of which looked like pun names, like 'Snow Go'. "This isn't good. We're stuck in this room, and possibly off of the island where our home is. Coco must be getting worried." Tawna said nervously while Crash also shuddered in nervousness too, at the mention of Coco.

Then suddenly the room got a bit darker as a small floating machine came down, and floated around the center with a whirring noise, and then a holographic image of someone whom neither bandicoot expected to see again for a year ended up appearing.

Dr. Neo Cortex himself.

"Well, well, well. If it isn't Crash Bandicoot, and… Tawna?" He spoke curiously, not expecting her to appear too. "Welcome anyway. I apologize for the crude means used to bring you both here. But I expected a written invitation would've been turned down." He said, smiling generously at them.

"Dr. Cortex. I didn't think you'd be alive after that high drop from your blimp." Tawna said surprised, and confused, yet annoyed as she crossed her arms, with the memory of being his prisoner, and him also attempting to kill Crash with his minions still fresh in her mind. After all, how could she forget about the time that one of them, being Pinstripe, who was among those that tried to kill Crash, was trying to weasel his way into her heart, only for it to fail since she still loves Crash?

And also, since he was beaten by Crash, who he left for dead back in the reactor room, even though she heard he escaped, and is alive and well.

All while Crash merely looked up, scratching his head with confusion and shock on his face.

"Well, let's just say that my head is harder than you think." He said, handwaving why he survived. "But anywho, let's cut to the chase. I need both of your help." He said the last part seriously.

"Huh?" Both Tawna and Crash said.

"Surrounding you both are a series of five doors. And through each door, lies a well hidden Crystal. The Crystals look like this." He said, showing a holographic image of a similar power Crystal appeared by his head. "I want you both to bring me those Crystals. That is all I can tell you both for now. We will speak again." He said before his hologram disappeared before Tawna could ask why.

Tawna ended up sighing at what happened, before turning to Crash. "Well Crash, It seems we should follow this guy's orders for now. Hopefully he isn't up to any bad stuff like last time." She said, getting a nod of acceptance from Crash in return. Before he and Tawna decided to enter the first portal that was behind them.

Once out of the other end in the starting chamber, they ended up seeing an exit that leads to the outside of the chamber. Which they took, to reveal to them that they were in another jungle of the islands. Only it looked unfamiliar to both of them since the path looked a bit different as well as the plants and trees, which they believed, doesn't lead back to their home.

"Welp, I don't think we're going home by taking that path, so let's just get that Crystal." Tawna said, jogging forward with Crash close behind.

Meanwhile, a floating rectangular wooden mask with glowing yellow eyes, four colored feathers on his head, and a little leaf beard on the bottom, was floating through the jungle and minding his business. Not only that, but he was patrolling the jungles, hoping to find nothing wrong or out of the ordinary on the islands close to Australia.

When suddenly, he heard footsteps on the dirt, and then he sensed two familiar presences around him, causing him to float onto the path to see who it was on the path.

"Crash? Tawna?" He said.

"Aku Aku? I didn't think you'd be here in this part of the jungles." Tawna said.

"Well I usually patrol through these jungles, hoping that nothing is out of the ordinary. Which explains why I rarely stay with you friends." Aku aku explained. "But let's cut to the chase. What are you all doing here?"

Crash then made some finger gun gestures while also doing some evil laughing, as well as pretend falling. Which Aku Aku tried to understand. "So Dr. Cortex is back? Also alive and well? How could that be?"

"I don't know. I thought for sure that the fall killed him. Guess he was feeling a bit more 'head strong' than we thought." Tawna said, deciding to make a pun.

Cue what could've been a rimshot, then a sound of crickets, as Aku Aku and Crash stared confused at her, with both not really getting the joke she made, much to her dismay. Since the former doesn't get modern humor, and since the latter is… just Crash. "Ah, Coco would get the joke." Tawna said deadpan as she crossed her arms again. "But in all seriousness, neither of us knows how he lived." She said shrugging, as Crash shrugged too.

"Well, what is he up to now?" Aku aku asked.

"He wants us to grab a bunch of Crystals. Which is odd, since there are at least a dozen Crystals in this world. And yet he wants the purple kind of Crystals that are about this shape." She said, while also using her hands to define the shape of the Crystals that they're looking for.

"Those are power Crystals!" Aku Aku said in alarm. "They're the most powerful Crystals in the world, and Cortex wants them?! But why? *gasp* He could be using them to either destroy or take over the world! He's finishing what he started!"

"I thought that too. But he seems to want us to help him for a different reason. Otherwise we wouldn't be here for them to begin with." Tawna said, as Crash also shook his head. "But we also didn't have any other choice since we had no way back to our home. And I'm still thinking he's using us for something bad, which is why we're talking to him about this, once we return to his room with a Crystal."

"I second that thought. Cortex has some explaining to do." Aku aku said, crossing his non existent arms too. "Mind if I join you both?" He asked.

"Ain't that what I established when I said 'we're talking to him about this'?" She said pointing to herself and Aku Aku. While also reminding him that Crash is usually silent. (Unless he speaks, but he usually talks in gibberish.) "Besides, we might need your help. The journey for the Crystals could be hard." She said, letting Aku Aku join them.

"I second that thought too." Aku aku said, feeling concerned for both Tawna and Crash on their upcoming journey. "Let's go get that Crystal, and see what Cortex wants." He then said, following Tawna and Crash through the jungle path.

Soon, they came across some creatures on the path. And they didn't look friendly to all of them. They don't even look pretty normal, especially with the turtles, which has buzz saws on their shells, and the pink vultures that has machinery on their heads. And none of them looked friendly to the bandicoots.

"There's something wrong with these animals. They don't look right." Aku Aku said.

"I know, it's like they were modified by some evil scientist. But who?" Tawna asked, only to gain another shrug from Crash in return, before they decided to move onwards through the path, deciding to get their answer later.

Where they jumped over the pits, and on the vulture's heads to take them out, slide kicking the turtles with saws, or jumping on the ones with spikes on the sides of their shells, before spinning them away, and collecting Wumpa fruit together. While noticing a couple of boxes that they decided to leave alone for now. Soon, they ended up noticing something different on the path that they were running through.

Which was their objective. A purple power Crystal that was floating on the path.

"Look at that. It's beautiful." Tawna said in awe of the Crystal.

"And it's our objective. Glad that it wasn't too hard. But I'm certain that it's just the beginning of our journey." Aku Aku said, as Crash proceeded to grab the Crystal.

"Then we better brace ourselves for later on. Come on Crash, let's find our way back to the warp room!" Tawna called out as she and Crash continued onwards through the path, believing they can find the exit back to the warp room that Cortex is in. All while jumping over more pits, as well as the vultures, and the spiked turtles, as well as the turtles with the buzz saws, and later, the pits that had moles inside that burrowed out of the dirt to attack them, but they spun the moles away until they found a bouncy mushroom to jump out of the pit with. Although they were also flexible enough to jump over the pits entirely as well. Soon they ended up finding another door to a warp station that is similar to the one they emerged out of. Which they entered to see the similar room that they emerged out of to the jungle.

Except they ended up seeing something in their way before the exit. A blue Gem.

"Whoa. That's also pretty." Tawna said, instantly taking the Gem too, because why not? And soon, they saw the golden dust in the chamber around the podium. "I guess that's the teleportation spot to send us back. Come on Aku Aku. Cortex might be expecting us." She said getting on the podium alongside Crash, before they both vanished again with the blue Gem and Crystal. This time with Aku Aku also getting teleported.

The bandicoots and Aku Aku was now in the warp room again, only without the Crystal and blue Gem in their hands, causing them to look around to see that the Crystal and blue Gem was now stuck on a wall next to the portal the exited from. "Dang it! I was hoping if I could wear that blue Gem on my ring. Or my headdress." Tawna quietly said with a sigh, imagining herself wearing the blue Gem.

Then the room ended up getting dark again, before the hologram of Cortex appeared again.

"Well done, both of you. I knew I could count on you…" Cortex said, smiling at them, before his smile ended up disappearing when he noticed Aku Aku in the room too. "Oh, it's you again. What are you doing here?" Cortex asked annoyed, remembering that Aku Aku was the floating mask, that was an ally of Crash's from a year ago, that helped and protected him from what he and his minions threw at Crash, until his defeat, as well as Tawna's and Coco's rescue.

Aku Aku ignored the annoyed tone in his voice, before explaining why he's here. "It's cause I found them both running through the jungle. And they told me everything they know. So, what are you really up to Cortex? What do you want those Crystals for? And why is it that you're using them, instead of those minions of yours?" He asked as both Tawna and Crash ate a Wumpa fruit that they collected from the jungle.

"It's pretty simple really. One, I'm limited in resources, so I had no choice. And two, I'm trying to save the world, and I need those Crystals to do it." He responded much to their confusion.

"T-the world's in danger?" Tawna asked.

"Yes. For you see, during my intellectual studies, I've come across a force that threatens to destroy the world. The Crystals are the only means of containing it."

"Do you have any proof of that?" Aku Aku asked suspiciously. Feeling that he could be lying.

Which Cortex was prepared for. "Of course. See for yourself." He said, before showing the holograms of space, as well as the map of the solar system. Which Aku Aku looked at. "Which is why, if you truly care for this planet, then it is imperative that you must swallow your hatred for me, and go with them to find the Crystals for me. There is at least twenty four left to find on earth." He said seriously.

Tawna ended up looking horrified when she scanned her eyes at the 'proof' that Cortex had by his floating head, after finishing a Wumpa fruit that Crash gave her. "Oh my. That means our islands might get destroyed by that force as well. This isn't good." She said.

"No offence or anything Tawna, but the islands getting destroyed are gonna be the least of your worries. Considering that all of Earth is gonna get destroyed along with those islands too." Cortex said politely. Feeling that the female Bandicoot loves those islands, and would risk her life for them, but he's sure she would pull through for Earth as well.

"Ah, yes. That too. Sorry about that." She said blushing with embarrassment.

Aku Aku also returned to their side after scanning the 'evidence' and making sure that it's legit. Which he believed, could be legit indeed. "This is a lot to take in Cortex, but if you're truly willing to save the Earth, then we'll help. Right friends?"

"Of course. If what you say is true Cortex, then count me in." Tawna said, before turning to Crash, who had to look at Cortex after finishing his Wumpa fruit. Finding him to be sincere, Crash nodded at him, causing him to smile. Crash had to focus on Cortex's smile to see if he's smirking, or making a smile that just screamed 'according to plan.'. Only to see none. It seems to Crash, that Cortex legit wants to save the world.

Although, Cortex was just that subtle about his evil plan in using Crash. "Excellent. Thank you all for helping me. I hope to reward you all for your acts of heroism." Cortex said, making Crash and Tawna grin at him. "And I promise you all, that it'll be magnificent. We will speak again once you're all further in your progress. Good luck." He said, before disappearing. Letting the room get a bit brighter again.

"Well, it seems that Cortex is truly turning over a new leaf after you've beaten him, huh Crashie." Tawna said, giving a peck onto Crash's cheek, making him grin with a blush.

"I know. We must've taught him a lesson. Let's just hope that it's gonna stick." Aku Aku said, still having a hunch that Cortex is still up to something, regardless of his proof. Nonetheless, he's still helping out until the world is truly saved, or when Cortex's nefarious plan is exposed. That is, if he had a nefarious plan.

Before they could go onwards to the next level, the room ended up getting dark again, causing them to look at the center to see if Cortex has more to say. Only to see another holographic face appearing before them.

That face belonged to Nitrous Brio. Cortex's former fellow doctor, and another one of Crash's foes that he defeated while she was still Cortex's prisoner. And due to repeated exposure and consumption of his potions, he ended up becoming slightly insane if his stuttering and sporadic laughing and facial twitches is a tell tale sign.

"N. Brio?" Aku Aku and Tawna chorused in surprise.

"Of c-c-course. I-I-I-It's me." N. Brio said with a stutter. "And I see that you're b-b-both helping Cortex gather the C-c-Crystals, and yet, you both acquired a Gem too. Interesting." N. Brio said referring to the blue Gem that Tawna took.

"Well yes. Just thought that I'd take a souvenir, being that Gem. Though that's out of the question now." She said feeling that the gem is stuck on the wall. "But nevertheless, are you also aware of this 'force' that is about to destroy the world?"

N. Brio ended up laughing for a bit. "Of c-c-course. B-b-but do you really believe him?" He asked, confusing all of them. "B-because if you all do, then know this. As long as you're both allied with C-c-Cortex, then you are my sworn enemies, and I'm gonna do everything in my power to-to stop you all. I-if the fate of the world is t-t-truly of all your concerns, then g-g-gather the G-g-Gems and not the C-c-Crystals. For once all forty two Gems are collected, then I'll f-focus a huge laser *Laughs* yes, a laser to destroy that space station of C-c-Cortex's that he's created!" He said, causing both Tawna and Crash to turn to Aku Aku in confusion.

"Now why do you want to do that? Weren't you and Cortex allies back then?" Aku Aku asked.

"Why of course we were. B-b-but let's just say that I've switched sides for g-g-good reasons. C-c-Cortex on the other hand, has not. S-s-so t-think about it Bandicoots! T-t-thank you for the Gem, but until y-you all see reason, and gather the G-g-Gems and not the C-c-Crystals, then I will use my forces, to-to stop you all *small laugh* from gathering Crystals!" N. brio then ended up cackling like a madman as his hologram ended up disappearing. Leaving the confused Bandicoots to their devices.

"Well, it seems we're at a standstill. Should we either collect the Crystals, or the Gems?" Tawna asked. Feeling that N. Brio could be telling the truth, even though the way he worded it with some stuttering and spontaneous laughter, had her hesitant in siding with Brio.

"I don't know. It seems that N. Brio could be lying. But so could Cortex if the proof he's shown us is fake." Aku Aku said. Also feeling a bit confused himself.

Crash ended up scratching his head in wonder of what they could do. Until he had an idea. So he ended up calling and gesturing to them of what his idea is. Which involved holding up his fingers as well as putting his left hand's fingers around his two fingers on the right, before moving the right hand downwards as he closed his left hand's fingers. Which both Tawna and Aku Aku understood. "Why not both you say? Good idea. Let's collect both the Gems and Crystals, and see if either Brio, or Cortex is the villain of this adventure." Tawna said grinning with Crash.

"Let's. And hopefully we'll survive too, for Coco." Aku Aku said.

"Y-yes. That too." Tawna also said, reminding herself that she and Crash must also return to Coco once their impending journey is done.

But for now, Crash and Tawna decided to enter the next portal to begin their journey. Which is where the snow is.

Chapter Text

"Crash? Tawna? Where are you?!" Coco called out as she looked for both of them on her way home. The reason being was that they were gone for close to an hour or two since Crash went back to their house for her battery, with Tawna also disappearing since she looked for her too. Now she was close to their house on the island, trying to see if they're in there looking for the battery, instead doing dirty things like last time.

"Crash! Tawna! Where are you both in here? And did you find a fresh battery?" She called out after entering their home, only to see that it's empty, and pretty spruce, and clean, instead of a bit messy like the last time they did the naughty stuff. Especially after searching in their home for them. Much to her confusion.

"Where are they? And why aren't they in here?" She wondered since she knew that they'd be coming out to greet her by now. And yet she's alone in the house herself. Much to her dismay. As she pondered about why they were gone, she ended up then thinking about Aku Aku. Causing her to jump off the bed that she sat on, and run outside with a start. Now she was calling out Aku Aku's name in order to see where he could find the two.

"AKU AKU! Aku Aku! Come out please!" She yelled out, only for the Wumpa islands being silent, save for the crashing waves and the wind to be her response. "Even Aku Aku isn't responding." She said, confused. Before she then gasped at the implication. "If he isn't responding, then something must be up." She said, before rushing back inside, replacing her laptop's battery, and then typing inside of it, confident that she could hack into Cortex's computers to see if he had something to do with why her friends are gone.

Crash, Tawna and Aku Aku now saw themselves in a snowy place known as 'Snow go' after exiting the teleportation chamber. Which caused both of them to shiver at the cold temperature, wishing that they had some more insulating jackets or coats with them. "*Shuddering* Whew. That was a bad time to forget to ask him for a coat. As well as going swimming during my time of exploring the islands." Tawna said, feeling like asking Cortex for a coat for both her and Crash once they're done with this area.

Something that Crash feels like agreeing with her on, as he also shivered due to his shirtless body.

Aku Aku was merely looking around in confusion though, as since he was a floating mask, he can't feel cold like Crash and Tawna does. "This is odd, this looks like an Austrailian location in the mountains. And yet Australia rarely gets a snow day."

"Then I guess this is one of those rare days, or either Brio or Cortex used a weather machine to give us this snow day. I wouldn't be too surprised if it's the latter." She said, breathing into her hands alongside Crash to warm herself up. "Nevertheless, let's get that Crystal, and hopefully we'll grab a Gem too so we can leave this place." She said, before Crash and her jogged through the crevice with Aku Aku close behind. Smashing boxes in their way for the wumpa fruits.

As well as exploding the TNT crates with their timed explosions at a sefe distance, and avoiding the new green boxes known as Nitro boxes at Aku Aku's warning.

As they proceeded onwards, they saw seals sliding on the snow and ice with their front flippers, going back and forth, and some penguins that happen to know how to spin like Crash does. Which they were able to jump on to defeat them, or spin them away together once the penguins stopped spinning, all while trying to skate themselves on the ice without falling.

"Wahh! OOF!" "Whoa! OOF!" Which ended up happening for both of them, as they fell on their fronts, or their butts in their attempt to skate. Much to their dismay, and amusement as they thought that their falling was pretty funny to each other. While Aku Aku was trying not to laugh at their attempts in skating.

Soon though, they were able to skate pretty well without falling down. But that was just the beginning of their journey in the 'Snow go' level. So they continued onwards through the snowy canyon. Making sure to dodge the spinning penguins, and the crawling seals along the way.

As they continued onwards, they looked at the walls of the canyon they were in, and they saw a bunch of crystals on the snow covered walls, as they made a purplish-blue glow from reflecting the sun's rays. Making them quite beautiful in their eyes as they stared for a bit. If they had any coats to wear, and if they weren't on a journey for Brio and Cortex to save the world, then they would've done some more sightseeing in the snowy canyons, if they return here.

Especially since they saw what could be huge Idols that happen to be snow covered, while some of them were also lopsided, due to the rocks underneath. And some happened to be in disrepair since one of them was cracked. Which had them pretty curious about what it was like, back in the day when Aku Aku probably was still human, or anything way before he became what he is now.

But they had to save the sightseeing, and asking Aku Aku for later, since they know that they'll be able to see more of it, once their world saving journey for the crystals is done.

"Say Crashie, why don't we come back here for exploring, once our journey is done? I'm sure this place would be so beautiful to explore, without the threat of getting destroyed too." Tawna said smiling at Crash, who smiled back with a nod.

"Yah! Yah! Lebubub." He said, back to her. Before they both continued onwards through the snowy canyon.

While they moved onwards through the canyon, and breaking boxes, they ended up seeing a cave just up ahead of them. "Let's go in there. I'm sure that It'll be somewhat warmer inside." Aku Aku said, before they all entered the cave.

While inside the cave, they all looked around and saw that inside the cave, was walls that was made out of greenish-blue colored rocks covered in ice, probably because of the lighting. Which had them looking in awe at how pretty the cave is inside. Also, it was indeed less cold for both Bandicoots inside, but still a bit cold nonetheless.

"Wowie! We're definitely coming back here someday." Tawna said, smiling at the ice cave. Which Crash agreed with her on as he stared at the walls. But staring had to wait for later, as they both continued onwards through the cave.

All while taking out the spinning penguins, the seals crawling on the ground, and later on another creature, that is the porcupines, that can flatten their back, and also extend their quills like a spike armor at will. Which gave both Bandicoots caution as they both spun the porcupines once their backs were flattened.

What they also had to avoid, was the smashers that came down from the top half of the idol heads, that threatened to flatten them like pancakes as they passed under them. It was like the idols was trying to chew on the Bandicoots for trespassing under them. And yet the idols continued to fail, since the idols were not as fast as the Bandicoots are, as they dodged the crushing stones without too much trouble.

And not to mention the falling icicles.

Then suddenly, they were in a section where the cave had a red shade on the walls like something red was taking the sunlight, and shining a red color. Causing them to look upwards, to see a red gem. "Another colored gem! We're getting lucky with the gem finding." Tawna said smiling. "But how are we gonna get it?"

"Ahlw bwe!" Crash said in his usual gibberish, like he was saying "Allow me!", before he then climbed on the green rock wall with his fingers finding the little cracks to grab onto. Soon, he was getting higher up the wall, and closer to the red gem.

"Go Crash! Get that Gem!" Tawna called out, cheering Crash on as Aku Aku stared worriedly at Crash, hoping that he won't fall, and hurt himself while getting that Gem. Even though Crash got hurt before, during his journey on the islands to rescue Tawna. Especially while riding on a hog, or during his stormy ascent up Cortex's castle, and through the dark hallways. And yet, he somehow survives, and gets back up for more running regardless.

Once Crash ascended up the wall to just below the level of the red Gem, he ended up reaching upwards towards the Gem in an attempt to get it. Before deciding to just climb higher to where he's just at the Gem's level.

"Yes Crash! You're getting closer!" She said happily while Crash kept on climbing upwards on the wall to the Gem. Until finally, he reached his hand to the Gem and was able to grasp it by his fingers.

After he grabbed it though, he felt and heard a snap of one of the cracks of the wall on his hand that held it. Causing him to turn to the wall, to see that it's making more cracks, signaling that he's about to lose his grip on the wall once a piece of it breaks off, before looking at the audience with a look that said "This is gonna suck." before he then fell back downwards.

"WHAAAA HOO HOO HOO HOOIE!" He screamed out as he descended.

"Don't worry Crash! I got you!" Tawna called out in alarm as she scrambled to where she believed Crash is gonna land while her arms were out in a catching motion. She was not right on the mark however, as she missed catching Crash as he landed on the cave floor with a splat sound right in front of her, still holding the red Gem. "YAUGH! CRASH!" She yelled in horror as she quickly put crash's dizzy form in her arms, hoping he's okay. "Are you okay?"

Much to her relief, and confusion, he got back up with some effort in balancing, since he was still feeling dizzy from the fall, yet he was fine as he still had the Gem in his hands. "Baa da baaaaa!" He yelled out in a sing song tone, spinning in celebration at how he got the red gem. While Tawna turned to Aku Aku in confusion at how he survived, while Aku Aku just shrugged his non existent shoulders in return.

She sighed in relief nonetheless. "At least you're still okay. Sorry that I didn't catch you." She said before pecking Crash on his cheek. Before getting the red Gem into her arms, and putting it in her pockets. "Now we just need to get that Crystal, and then we're done with this part of the world." She said, before jogging ahead with Crash close behind her through the cave, avoiding the log crushers, and breaking more crates in their path.

And they even found a bonus area after falling in the pit. Leading to them breaking more boxes inside, until they were able to find a way out with a floating platform.

After a few moments of jogging through the cave, dodging the smashers, and breaking the boxes, they ended up seeing the other end of the cave that happened to be an exit to the outside. Much to their dismay since they're gonna get cold outside again, and they didn't have the Crystal yet. But they had to just bear with it until they get the Crystal, and then warp back to Cortex's warp room. So they rushed together outside into the snow.

Soon they were rewarded for continuing, for they jogged through the snow, taking out the seals and penguins, until they came across a wall of crates that tried to block their path. Only for the Bandicoots to merely spin the crates for the Wumpa fruit, and immediately see the power Crystal behind the crates. Which had them happy to get the Crystal before finding more of the crates to destroy with their spinning.

And soon, they ended up finding the exit from the 'Snow go' level. Much for their relief. So they entered the chamber, only to see something they didn't expect in their path to the exit.

A grey colored Gem was in their path on the way to the podium that teleports them to the room. Much to their confusion.

"That's odd, what did we do to get that Gem?" Tawna asked Aku Aku.

"I don't know. Maybe… wait. Didn't we destroy the crates that was in our way to the Crystal, then to the exit?" Aku Aku asked.

"I… guess we did." Tawna said.

"Then to get that Gem, we need to destroy all of the crates in our path for the clear Gems. Which hopefully, will bring us closer to helping Brio, once our journey ends, and if Cortex shows his true colors." Aku Aku said, before they all got the Gem, then proceeded to get warped back to Cortex's warp room.

Once back in the warp room, the Bandicoots ended up looking at the wall by the portal, and saw that the Crystal, and both of the Gems were on there. Then they looked at the 'Turtle woods' portal, and saw that the blue Gem, and the Crystal was still there. Alongside an empty spot that they knew is where the clear Gem should be.

"Well, looks like it's our cue for one of us to go back to that place, and grab the clear gem there, before we can continue." Aku Aku stated, having an idea to split up the Bandicoots, temporarily until their job was done.

"I concur. It'll get our job done faster if we do this. I just hope that we won't get separated for too long." Tawna said, hugging Crash with a sad pout on her face.

"Ie, hobee sho doo bwebe." Crash also spoke out in gibberish, also saddened and pretty reluctant, that he's gonna be separate from Tawna for now. Not that he's not gonna go through with it.

"That is why we're gonna reunite for the fourth Crystal from that level," He said pointing to 'The Pits' portal. "once we grab the Crystal from that portal, and once you grab the Gem. Good idea?"

"That'll work." She said with a little reluctance, letting go of Crash. "Just ensure to me that Crash won't bite the dust, or I'm using you for firewood after this journey ends. And after I beat the tar out of either Brio, or Cortex. Got it?" She growled our the last part. Leaving both Aku Aku and Crash feeling nervous. (Less so for Crash, who felt more touched by her defense on his behalf.)

Aku Aku nodded at that, telling her that he will keep Crash alive. "Good. Hope to see you later honey." She said, before blowing her kiss at Crash's direction before jumping in the first portal. Leaving Aku Aku and Crash to their own devices, as they both decided to enter the portal.

Which is where Crash and Aku Aku exited the chamber, and saw that they were going up a creek that had a river flowing opposite of where they're going. Which had Crash looking at his pants in exasperation, resisting the urge to facepalm, at how he's gonna move up the river's creek like last time, when he was trying to rescue his girlfriend from Cortex's clutches.

And he still can't swim well.

"Oh dear. It seems we're doing this again. I should've had Tawna doing this while you collect the Gem." Aku Aku nervously said, having followed Crash through this situation before on his first journey.

Which Crash nodded back, agreeing with Aku Aku. But he knew that he has to keep going, for Tawna and Coco after all. So he proceeded to run ahead through the path. Where lucky for him, there was more flat etched rocky land to walk on, and there was no carnivorous plants that could've eaten him if he didn't keep on jumping through a path of them to where land is.

In their place, was flat tower platforms that rose and descended up and down like a slow piston. Which at least gave him more time to make the jump then the plants did as he scaled the stairs that leads over the small waterfall.

There was also hippos that awakens and submerges every time he lands on them. At least they were bigger to where he could land on them easier than the plants, and at least they gave Crash more seconds to jump to another piece of land than the plants do.

That's not to say that the plants are gone however, as he soon met them on the flat rock land. Only this time, they looked like a certain kind of plant that reminded Crash of the video game enemies that a certain red wearing plumber fights against in one of Coco's games on her laptop. "Takee thas!" But at least he isn't required to jump on them, since he can spin them away before they can eat him now.

But there was also the similar obstacle, where there was bad fishes that leaped out of the water in an attempt to take a bite out of him. Only this time, they were robotic fish that Crash guessed was made by N. Brio, to eat him. But thankfully, like last time with the fishes, he merely decided to jump past them while they're in the water.

Also thankfully, at least there was also no leaves that somehow slowly moves back and forth, that he had to stand on to reach the other side of the river. Crash wasn't a patient bandicoot that time, and he isn't as patient now.

In their place, was flat stone paths that he ran on and easily traversed regardless of the plants that tried to eat him. Which helped lead him through the river, as well as kept him out of the water.

Soon however, he came across a pier where they saw that there was nothing in reach of Crash to jump on to help Crash across. "AAHH! Bwaoghgaaaagh." Crash yelled out in frustration while stomping on the pier, since he felt that Cortex expected him to swim to the other end. Now it seemed to him and Aku Aku that he should've been the one collecting the Gem, while Tawna collects the Crystal here.

At least, initially for Aku Aku, until something caught his eye. "Crash! Look!" He called out, causing Crash to look where he's looking, and see that there was a board floating on the water's surface.

But not just any board, but a jet board that has a turbo engine on its back with four pipes that was aiming upwards. Along with red fire patterns on it that gave it a certain 'hot rod' appeal to it while having a pair of water wheels on its upper sides, obviously for balance and steering. And Crash instantly knew that it could help him across.

"HAHAHAHA!" Crash laughed with a grin, as he got close to the board, only to see a note on it. Even though he was unable to speak, and even though he's… Crash, which means he was unable to read it, he did think that it was important, so he asked Aku Aku to read it to him.

Which he proceeded to do. "It says, 'Dear Crash. I'm aware that you're probably still unable to swim. So I decided to give you a little gift, which is this jet board that I invented, and created, just before bringing you and Tawna on this journey. I hope you like it, and I hope it'll be useful to you when you come across any rivers or lakes that block your path. Just try not to have fun to where you'll break it, it took me a lot of time, and resources, (Not to mention money. Grrrr!) to make this thing work for you. Enjoy, and good luck.

Signed Dr. Cortex.' What a nice fellow. He seems to be more helpful than last time. Guess he truly turned a new leaf." Aku Aku said. Causing Crash to grin and nod in return.

Before Crash decided to get on the board, as he felt that this was the moment to take the board out for a spin. So he stood while balancing on it as it started to move forward when he pressed his foot on the gas in front of the engine.

"Easy does it Crash. Make sure you get the hang of it before we can traverse these waters." Aku Aku said.

"Woahkee." He gibbered to tell Aku Aku that he'll keep that in mind as he continued to balance on the board in the water.

As he kept moving along on the board, Crash felt that the board was not slow, but it wasn't fast enough either. Which so far for him, was enough for Crash. But he felt that he could go faster. So Crash searched the board for a button to do just that. Until he found such a button that he believed would do just that.

Aku Aku saw it too though, and he knew that Crash was about to press it. "Wait! Stop! I don't think-"

*VROOOM!* "WOAH!" Crash said as he felt the board going quite fast. Which accidentally led to him doing a backflip with the board when he leaned back too far. The good news, was that the board was okay and still floating. The bad news however, was that Crash fell off of it.

And now he was in the water, so far not in Aku Aku's sight.

"CRASH! Where are you!?" Aku Aku said in horror as he looked around the water's surface for Crash while keeping his eyes glued to the board, hoping he's not too far from it.

Luckily for him, when he felt that he lost Crash, he saw Crash swimming back up to the board with a splash, before using it as a floatation item to hang onto. "Hehehe, a'm oleh!" Crash gibbered, like he's saying "I'm okay!" to Aku Aku, which helped calm him down.

"Oh Crash. We should be more careful with that. Tawna would kill me if you weren't alright." He said in relief as he helped Crash onto the board. Who proceeded to move forward through the water, practicing how to ride the board.

Once he got the hang of the board, he decided to try the turbo out again. Only this time, he prepared himself for it, and he only pressed it only for a second to use the turbo in short bursts. Resulting in only a second on going faster which can be done again and again. Just what Crash was looking for.

Now he proceeded to practice with it, then move forward in the river once he knew he's ready. "That's it Crash. It seems that you're now prepared for this." Aku Aku said, following Crash with a smile on his face.

Crash continued forwards through the river, breaking the boxes, and seeing ramps that he used to launch him up into the air to break more boxes in the air. All while avoiding the whirlpools that Crash knew would suck him in if he get's caught, as well as the floating mines that was on the river's surface. Possibly placed there by N. Brio to hinder Crash's progress for the Crystals. Unfortunately for Brio, Crash was able to avoid the mines, even if the mines were lined up in patterns.

Soon, Crash was at another pier at the other end as he got out of the water. Before grabbing the jet board and putting it on his back to help transport it on the land to another uncross able river path. The board was unexpectedly light for Crash to carry too, which made it less of a hassle to jump with. Now Crash had to go through the stone path over the water, and spin away the plants. As well as breaking boxes in another bonus area in the trees.

Shortly after completing the bonus, he ended up seeing a platform that happened to look like a blue colored Gem, like the one that Tawna took from their first area where they got their first Crystal. Something that didn't surprise Aku Aku, since he saw this happen before on their last adventure. So he knew that the colored Gems have special properties.

Crash wasn't that surprised either as he still remembered the little challenges that came with the colored gems when he saw a solid one. Which were hard, but oddly enjoyable when he traversed them with his parkour moves. Now he feels that he's about to receive more challenges from the colored gems as he proceeded to ride the platform to another section of the river, where he saw four more boxes. Which he proceeded to break, before proceeding onwards through the course that was not as hard as last time, but it was still pretty difficult.

Especially with the increased amounts of nitro boxes that was on land, and floating in the water, while also being close to the floating mines that ended up somehow moving through the water, making it more hard for him to traverse the water on his jet board. And it gave both Crash, and Aku Aku, a foreshadowing of what's to come from the other colored Gem challenges that they're sure Tawna was gonna take part in. (Which they hoped, won't be the end of her.)

At least it was a short course, as Crash and Aku Aku got back to the main course by taking the similar Gem platform back. Now they had to continue onwards through the river. Where they quickly found the power Crystal that was between the hippos, and on the flat stones that he had to hop on over the water. Which Crash and Aku Aku was relieved about as Crash continued to break the boxes, hop on things to reach the other side of the water, and even using the jet board to help him to the other side when there was nothing to jump onto.

Eventually, they made it to the exit chamber while they made sure that the boxes were broken, expecting the clear gem to be inside the Chamber. Only to then see that there was two gems inside, much to their confusion. Nevertheless, Crash happily got the Gems along the way to the exit.

Not knowing that he had one nanosecond left in grabbing the other gem.

Once back in the warp room, they ended up seeing that the Crystal and the Gems were on the wall by the portal.

"Hello boys. What took you both?" Tawna's voice sounded. Causing them to turn to see Tawna back in the warp room. Crash wasted no time in rushing back to her for a hug. Which Tawna returned, until she noticed the jet board on Crash's back. "Whoa! What's that?" Tawna asked in surprise.

"It's a jet board that we found in the river area. Cortex left it for him to use in order to help him with the fact that he couldn't swim." Aku Aku responded. "Which I'm relieved he did, since we thought about switching the roles between you both. But now that's unnecessary."

"What a relief." Tawna said with a smile as she hugged Crash. "Now my Crashie is safe, and we won't waste more time in gathering gems for Brio in doing the switch. Now we have two more portals to go into. Like that one." She said pointing at the portal to 'The Pits.'

Before they decided to go to that portal, the room grew dark again as the familiar floating projector reappeared, before showing Neo Cortex's head once again. "Three Crystals. Not bad." He said with pride.

"Thank you for the praise Cortex. Although we're aware of that already." Tawna said, gesturing to the walls where there was three crystals on there next to the portals. "By the way, thank you for giving Crashie the jet board. We all appreciate the help." She then said, putting her arm around his shoulder.

"No problem. And I see that you're getting the hang of the gift from me." He said to Crash, who nodded with a smile. "As well as your journey for the Crystals of course."

"Hey Cortex. There's something you should know. You see, after we spoke with you, we had a word with Brio. And he's telling use to gather the Gems instead of the Crystals. I'm guessing you no longer work with him anymore." Tawna said.

Cortex ended up frowning at the mention of Brio's name. Still feeling annoyed about him no longer working for him. "We both have changed ever since we last met, Crash and Tawna. You see, we had a falling out since I changed for the better, while Brio on the other hand, has not. When I discovered the force that's trying to destroy the world, I tried to tell Brio, but he didn't listen to me. Now we no longer work together, and he has become my enemy as a result. And in this case, he's yours as well." He said somberly and angrily.

"So that's why the animals we fought against had some mechanical mods to them. That monster!" Aku Aku said.

"Indeed he is, which is why you cannot trust him. But listen, I need to conserve power, so our communications will have to stop for now. I will communicate with you all after you retrieve the fifth Crystal. So long for now." Cortex said before disappearing, leaving the Bandicoots to their devices.

"Well, now we're going to that place next. Sounds a bit dangerous. But it ain't stopping us." Tawna said, referring to the name, 'The Pits'.

"Then let's go. Oh, and sorry Crash, but we should leave the board here for now." Aku Aku said.

Which is much to Crash's slight dismay since he felt attached to the board. But he knew that if there was no river to go to in the next portal, then the board was unnecessary. So he laid the board against the wall, then proceeded to enter the portal with Tawna and Aku Aku.

Where they ended up exiting the chamber to a different part of the island jungles like in Turtle woods, only this time, it was sunset, and it was not cloudy with a chance of rain, as they went through the path that was pretty similar to the Turtle Woods. Right down to the pits that had the moles inside that they had to take down to summon the bouncy mushroom to help them out of it. So other than the sunset, and the other ancient architectures, there was nothing else to write home about.

Other than the fork in the road, that they both immediately agreed to split into different paths through as they both ran, with Tawna going left, while they both avoided the vultures, the armadillos, and the spiked and saw bladed turtles that made a reappearance, and the bottomless pits that they both jumped over, hence the name for the place they're in.

Once they broke the boxes, and after they got the Crystal from the left path before reuniting with each other, after the two paths led back to each other, they ended up going through the bonus pitfall area, jumped over the mole pits, and ended up getting up to the exit chamber, where they proceeded to grab the Gem before warping back to the Warp room.

"Well, that was pretty easy." Tawna said, feeling that only the bottomless pits were a huge danger for both of them. That is, if they weren't flexible.

"But there could be harder courses for us to take in the near future. So let's get ready for them." Aku Aku said as they proceeded to the last portal of the room, being 'Crash Dash'.

After exiting the chamber, they immediately found some boxes to break before running onwards into a small cave. "Oh look, were in a cave like in the snow place. At least it isn't freezing cold here." Tawna said.

"And at least this cave is merely small like a tunnel. Since I can see the other side." Aku Aku said as they ran out the other side while breaking more boxes.

As they got outside, and got more of the boxes, they ended up hearing some deep raspy voice cackling behind them, which had them looking around them, confused on who it was that laughed. "G'day mates! What, ya thinkin this is over between us? You thought wrong." A familiar deep voice said, causing them to turn upwards to the voice overhead, only to see someone they didn't think they'd see.

And whom they wished they didn't see again. Being Koala Kong. Who was standing on a spherical boulder.

"Oh. It's you again." Tawna said annoyed, as was Crash, who glared at him too.

"Yep! It's me alright mates. And I have ta say, you're still look beautiful in me eyes mate. Ya wanna give me biceps a little pashing?" He said flexing his muscles.

As flattered as Tawna would've been by the flirting, she was not fond of whom said that to her. "I know why you're here Kong! And the answer is still no."

"Oh come on, I was sent here for a different reason, he didn't tell me you'd be here too. Also, what does that little fuzzball got that I don't? And don't say, 'he makes me laugh.' because I know I can too, ya know. Like this, um, let's see… A scientist walks into a bar-" He said, trying to tell a joke.

Which Tawna didn't let him finish on. "It's not just that reason why Koala Kong! It's also cause he's cute to me, and because he went through so much to rescue me, as well as his sister, from Cortex's hands. That proved to me that he's a nice Bandicoot that would save someone like me! No thanks to you." She said, referring to Kong fighting Crash.

"Well Cortex ordered me to fight that little dag. And you know how-"

"Every minion of his was ordered to try to kill my Crashie! That doesn't excuse the fact that you tried to do it without even a hint of hesitation! So I don't care how much muscles you're packin, the answer is still no! I'm still gonna stay with Crashie, and there's nothing you can do to change my mind!" She said angrily. Much to Crash's relief, since he knew that Koala Kong did have a little crush on Tawna. (Alongside Pinstripe.) And he could use his muscles to charm her to his side.

Thank goodness she wasn't willing to leave Crash behind. "Yahu dal eem bwebe" Crash gibbered to Tawna. Giving her a grin and a thumb up. Which had her smiling at him in return.

Koala Kong was looking at them both annoyed, before he then sighed. "Okay fine, I'll simply see if I can find someone else to charm. But Brio ordered me to take out the two Bandicoots that is after the Crystals! And I don't intend to leave him disappointed. So you all should say your prayers, especially you, ya bogan." He said pointing at Crash. "Cause you're both leaving flat broke. Heheheh, speaking of flat, here's something from Koala Kong. Think of it as a gift." He said, before he jumped behind the boulder.

Tawna and Aku Aku immediately knew what was about to happen, and that horrified them both. "Oooh no! RUUUUN!" Tawna screamed out before sprinting with Crash in tow down the path before the boulder was pushed by Koala Kong down the slope, and was now rolling on the path in an attempt to smoosh the Bandicoots.

"AAAHHH! Nau tagayn eaahh!" Crash said when he noticed the boulder rolling towards both of them, which instantly reminded him of last time he did this. Only now, he has Tawna running with him.

And that made him more scared, since he knew that she'll get smooshed too, if they didn't run fast enough. So he ran fast in order to keep up with her. All while hoping that the boxes they miss would get crushed by the boulder too.

What's also worse, was the there was also pits that they could fall into if they didn't jump. Which they were able to jump over, but they also had mines that they had to avoid so they won't get blown up.

"Keep going children! We're almost to safety!" Aku Aku called out, seeing a barricade that he feels could hold the boulder.

The Bandicoots didn't need to be told twice, as they were sprinting to the barricade that had a little gap in the middle that could fit both of them, but not the boulder. Which ended up catching the boulder, if barely. As the barricade ended up splintering and cracking badly, showing them that the barricade was not strong in holding the boulder.

And unfortunately, is showing signs of breaking. "We better keep going! That barricade might not hold any longer!" Aku Aku pointed out. Causing both Bandicoots to run again after they caught their breaths, before the barricade gave out after a minute, resuming their chase. At least they had time to break more boxes behind the barricade.

Now they were running again from the boulder, as Tawna and Crash was breathing heavily during their run. Hoping that their legs can carry them all the way to the Crystal, as well as to safety from the boulder that was not giving either Bandicoot some breathing room as it was still pretty close behind them.

And to make matters worse, is that there was small electric fences, on the sides of their path. "Wahh! Let's avoid those Crashie!" She said, hoping that she and Crash won't get electrocuted since it would really hurt. (Not to mention the bad hair day that could result from it.)

What was also unfortunate, was that both Bandicoots knew that Koala Kong was still around. And they knew that he's no slouch in combat simply due to having more strength then either of them combined. So they hoped that he isn't gonna be chasing them too. Not to say that they're scared of him, as they both aren't. It's just that they currently had enough on their plate with the boulder, among other stuff.

As they ran and dodged the mines, and the electric gates, they were panting at how long they ran, when they ended up seeing a path of of planks of wood up ahead. They quickly knew that the planks could be unable to hold the boulder. So they ran with all their might to the bridge of planks.

Only for Crash to end up tripping just a couple meters away from the planks due to a root. "Whoa!" He managed to call out before he got smooshed by the boulder.

"Crash!? Where are you?!" She called out, not noticing him getting squished by the boulder since she couldn't look back for fear of slowing down, or tripping like Crash did as she continued to sprint to the planks of wood. Thinking that Crash could be behind her.

At least until Aku Aku later told her that Crash was on the boulder, as he was able to unflatten himself, before running backwards on the boulder to keep his balance on it. Which he had fun on, but he knew that it was gonna be a short ride. (And possibly his last, if he wasn't careful.)

By the time Tawna was on the planks of wood, she saw that the planks were somehow able to hold it up for at least a second before splitting into pieces, as Crash and Tawna was preparing to jump.

Tawna was able to jump to the other side of the now large gap where the planks used to be, as the planks broke with the boulder now sailing into the bottomless pit near the end. With Crash able to jump off the boulder, and able to grapple onto the edge of the gap that Tawna was at, before the boulder fell downwards. Now Crash was trying to pull himself up to safety until Tawna saw that he was dangling, causing her to quickly pull him to safety.

Now they were both trying to catch their breaths while she hugged Crash into her bosom. Thankful that the boulder didn't crush either of them. While Crash was also happy that Tawna didn't end up under the boulder like he was, as well as glad that they were safe for now.

Not bad for her first boulder chase.

Then Tawna proceeded to kiss Crash on the snout. "Thank goodness we got here. *Huff* That was, *Huff* so close." She said to Crash in relief.

Then they both noticed Koala Kong on the other side of the gap as he glared at them. Even though he was also impressed that they were able to outrun the boulder together.

"This isn't over, you Bandicoots!" He called out while pointing at them. "We shall meet again, and when we do, I'll clobber ya harder than this boulder! Just you wait!" Koala said, before walking off, intent on revenge later.

"Whew, geez. What a jerk." Tawna said, still catching her breath. Crash nodded in agreement, as he also glared at Kong's back, also ready to fight him again when the time comes.

Right now though, they saw their objective that they failed to notice at first glance close by due to running from the boulder. The power Crystal. "But at least we got what we're here for." Tawna said, getting onto her feet and grabbing the Crystal, once she caught her breath.

"What a relief. Now we just need to get the Gem, then we're done here." Aku Aku said.

The Bandicoots didn't need to be told twice. As they proceeded to keep on going through the path and break the boxes, once they got their breath back. They were still gonna collect the Gems, even if they were angry that Brio sent Koala Kong to kill them, but they knew that it's cause they kept on collecting the Crystals for Cortex, and Brio warned them that he was gonna stop them if they keep going, since he did say that Cortex was still a bad guy. And even though there was evidence of what's gonna happen to Earth, the Bandicoots still felt hesitant in making Cortex their friend, let alone work for him, after what happened a year ago. So whether he's still a bad guy, or if Brio is a villain

But they knew that they had to merely keep going, in order to get their answer by the end of the journey. So by the time they got to the exit teleporter after a couple minutes, they got all the boxes broken, and sure enough, while inside the chamber, they got the clear Gem before getting to the exit podium that teleported them back to the warp room.

Now they looked around in the warp room, seeing that all five of the Crystals was on the walls by the portals, which was good for Cortex. They also saw all eight collected Gems on the walls, two of which were colored, which was good for Brio. Which left the Bandicoots, and Aku Aku happy at their progress they've made. Crash especially, since he ended up doing the little 'Crash dance' that he does when he gets happy and excited. Which Tawna smiled at, as he thought that the dance was adorable when he did that. (Which also applied to Coco whenever she did that too.)

Then the room got dark again. Signaling to them that Cortex's hologram was about to appear in the room to speak to them. Which is what just happened after a second. "Well done. You all collected all the Crystals in this room." He said with a smile, before he again got serious. "But listen up. With Brio on the loose, we're not without enemies. Some of which, you all might recognize."

"I'll say, Koala Kong was who we met on the last part. And he tried to smoosh us with a boulder!" Tawna said, exasperated.

"He what?! That scum! How dare he!" Cortex angrily said. "Well, I'm afraid I have good news and bad news. The good news, is that you're all safe in this warp room."

"And the bad news?" Aku Aku asked.

"They can harm you on the way to the next one. Which is why you should brace yourselves for combat when you're ready to go. Once you are, then use the platform in the center of the room, to get to the next one. I'll speak to you all once you're there. Good luck." He said, before his hologram disappeared. Leaving the Bandicoots to their devices.

They knew that they were gonna fight somebody on their way to the next warp room to gather more crystals, if Cortex's warning wasn't enough. So they did just that as Crash put the jet board on his back again, before they proceeded to use the platform like he told them as it ascended to the ceiling as the hole opened up. Then once they were in the hole, they ended up feeling themselves getting teleported as their vision turned white again.

Once the whiteness faded, they saw themselves on the flat square floor that was in front of the waterfall. Which looked like they were inside a private room of somebody's. Which had them curiously looking at the sights.

"A visitor? Hold on, I'll be with you in a moment." A gentleman's voice said as they heard a book's page turn.

Causing them to turn to the source of that voice, to then see another familiar face.

Ripper Roo.

Only this time, instead of the insane blue furred kangaroo that Crash fought a year ago, it was a now intelligent blue furred kangaroo that was reading some books, including the big one that nearly hid his face. He also happened to be wearing a top hat, and his spiral eyes were now normal looking. Nevertheless, Crash still felt a shudder up his spine at the sight of Ripper Roo. While Tawna also started to recognize the kangaroo that Crash told her about to the best of his abilities.

"Umm… hello. Could you be Ripper Roo?" Tawna asked.

"Indeed I am." Ripper Roo said. "And judging by your voice, you could be Tawna, I presume."

"Yes. I am." She said crossing her arms.

"Ah. I think I know of a Tawna somewhere." He said before thinking for a bit. "Ah Yes. Tawna, whom you might be, is a Bandicoot like this Crash fellow. Both of whom happened to be created by a scientist that goes by the name Dr. Neo Cortex. Who unfortunately lost Crash, who then proceeded to defeat Cortex to save you." He explained.

"Yeah, that was me alright." Tawna said, still annoyed about being Cortex's hostage while Crash tried to rescue her. "And I prefer to merely remember my boyfriend kicking his butt to save me."

"That was indeed you? My apologies madame. Cortex did have an ego the size of his own head." Ripper said, causing both Crash and Tawna to chuckle at that. "But Cortex did create all of us, and we wouldn't be who we are now without him."

"I'm aware of that." Tawna said, annoyed at how true it was.

"And now as I've heard, Cortex is now sending you two out on a quest for the Crystals on Earth. And I've been sent to take you both down." Ripper Roo said, closing the book, and putting it down, showing his bushy moustache as he looked calm and collected.

And that was about to change.

"But I'd rather that we talk, and see if I can… persuade…" He tried to say, until he laid eyes on Crash. Causing him to stop himself.

"Hallow!" Crash said waving back.

Ripper Roo then ended up shaking violently like a leaf, as he also knocked a pile of books off his desk with his left foot. "You. I remember you… Crash." He calmly said like he was gonna explode in a second. Which caused the Bandicoots to back away nervously from the desk.

"I should be thanking you Crash. For after my defeat by your hands, I went through intense therapy. Then I went through high education in at least eight months until I earned a PHD." He said standing up. "But my thoughts about revenge against you have never left my mind. And now I've been sent to eliminate you, and what better time to claim my revenge, THAN NOW!" He shouted as he stomped on his cane in a certain way, to where it flew up in the air, before he then caught it with his foot, and was now hopping on it like a pogo stick.

"Oh, and the floor below you both has special properties! Observe!" He continued to say as he jumped onto the square floor. Where TNT panels started to appear under him as they started to count down and beep while Ripper Roo made more of the panels, which took up most of the square that they were on as both Bandicoots kept on running to the spots where Ripper Roo was not gonna jump to so they won't get squished under him.

The Bandicoots also ran to a safe spot on the square, where the panels were not gonna touch them when they blew up like normal TNT crates. While Ripper Roo hopped up high to avoid the explosions of the TNT panels. Before making more TNT panels to try to blow up the Bandicoots with.

Which happened a few times, until Tawna had to think up an idea on how to hurt Ripper Roo. "Could I try to distract him with seduction? Wait! Not in front of Crash, he might not know that I'm faking it! What about making him laugh? Wait, that could work!" She thought as she got her idea.

Which is to wait until the TNT panels beep faster under Ripper Roo. Which was when Tawna made her move. "Hey Ripper, before we resume this fight, I wanna ask. What was it like to have high education?" She asked.

"Oh, it was a good time, as I got smarter as I changed from my old self. And like I said, I've gotten a PHD." Ripper Roo said proudly.

"Oh really? I guess it was a 'hopping' good time getting that reward, right." Tawna said, making a pun.

Which had Ripper Roo laughing at the pun after having got it. Which was according to Tawna's plan as the TNT panels started to beep faster. While Crash also laughed at the pun too when he too got it after a little more time passed.

"Hahahaha! That was a good one!" Ripper Roo said between his laughter.

"I'm betting that the classmates of yours doubted that you'd do great in your educational field. I guess they're just 'pouch' potatoes, that shall now 'roo' the day they doubted you, now that you've won your PHD!" She said, making more puns that had both Crash and Ripper Roo laughing hard at the puns, while Aku Aku smiled at Tawna once he knew of her plan, as the TNT Panels were now beeping faster.

"Oh hohohohoho! If I wasn't sent to take you all down, we would've been frie- huh?"

*BOOOOOM*

An explosion sounded as Ripper Roo got caught in the explosions of the TNT panels. Causing him to fly upwards from the explosions before landing on the floor front first as his hat fell off. Showing his mad scientist hair, that was orange colored.

Crash and Tawna celebrated their victory on the square as Aku Aku smiled relieved that Crash and Tawna might've won their battle against the first boss that they won against.

"We did it Crashie! We won!" Tawna said happily as Crash also smiled, happy that they have defeated their first adversary.

Or so they thought.

For they both ended up hearing high pitched laughter to their side, causing them to look in shock as Ripper Roo was rising from his front. Only this time, he sounded more high pitched in his laughter, and as Crash and Tawna saw, his eyes had the familiar swirls in them again. Which brought a shiver up both Crash and Tawna's spines as they looked on in horror at the now insane Ripper Roo in front of them.

"Remember me Crash!? Well I remember you! And I have waited for this day to come! LET'S FIGHT!" He said now sounding high pitched as he hopped around on the square, now making Nitro crate panels as he also chased after Crash and Tawna as they ran from him in horror at his insanity. "Don't run! I'm only offering pancakes! Bandicoot pancakes that is!" He said as he wheezed with laughter at his own dark joke that he made.

Which had both Bandicoots horrified at his insanity as they continued to run from his furious hopping. "Yikes Crash! That guy's as crazy as you described him!" Tawna said.

"I nobw wite!" Crash gibbered back as they continued to run.

All while they also stood on the more safer sections of the square as they managed to stay out of range of the Nitro panel explosions. Unfortunately, so did Ripper Roo as he hopped high upwards while dodging the explosions himself. Rinse and repeat for at least three times, as Tawna tried to compliment him or make him laugh, to distract him only for him to ignore her compliments and her jokes.

Soon, he had the square they were on now almost completely covered in Nitro panels as Crash and Tawna had to stand in a corner as Tawna had to rethink her plan. Until she then had another idea on how to provoke Ripper Roo into setting off the Nitro panels.

Which involved having Crash use the jet board to float on the water with, as Crash was now floating on the water and moving around the square with Tawna behind him, as they cut through the current of the water around the square. Which had them safe from the Nitro panels, much to Ripper Roo's frustration.

"Hey! Come back on this square, and fight like a Bandicoot!" Ripper Roo said angrily.

"Why?! Are you all 'hopped' up with nowhere to go?!" She said, making a pun again, only to taunt Ripper Roo that time as Crash laughed at the pun himself. Having got the pun that time.

"Stop it! I'm warning you, I'll kick your butts until you all fly to mars!" Ripper Roo yelled out.

"Well than that'll make us 'mars'-supials then, right?!" She said, making another pun.

Which had Ripper Roo shaking with rage a that. "Why you little-" He said as he stomped his foot down.

*BOOOOOM*

Which was a bad idea for him, as he accidentally set off the Nitro panels under his feet. Causing him to fly upwards a bit before falling back down to the ground. Now stunned from the explosions as he had stars in his vision.

"Now Crashie! While he's stunned!" She called to Crash as he steered his jet board back to the square arena. Before jumping off of it, and sprinting to Ripper Roo while Tawna held onto the board. Then Crash proceeded to spin into Ripper Roo, and clobbered him to where he slammed his head into the stone. Now his head was stuck in the stone square like an ostrich as he tried to pull his head out of the dirt while Tawna and Crash was celebrating Ripper Roo's defeat alongside Aku Aku.

Even though Ripper Roo was able to pull his head out of the stone, he was now unconscious as Tawna and Crash hugged each other. Before they vanished again as they teleported back onto the platform with the jet board as they now rode on it to the next floor.

Once they were in the next warp room, they looked around and saw that the room looked more like a icy room like a cave, with five portals around them. Yet oddly, they didn't feel too cold inside the room, as they weren't shivering hard enough like they were, back in Snow Go.

Which was fine with Tawna and Crash, as they walked off of the platform in the center, and was going to enter one of the portals when the room went dark again. Signalling to them that Cortex's hologram is coming back to talk to them again.

Sure enough, the hologram device was in the room again, and it showed Cortex's head appearing again. "Hahahaha! Hahahahahahohoho! I see that Ripper Roo has failed to prove much of a challenge yet again." Cortex said smiling.

"He was a scary kangaroo, but he wasn't too hard. I'm sure he's gonna 'roo' the day he messed with us." Tawna said, accidentally making a pun again.

Cortex ended up laughing at the pun after he got it alongside Crash, who also laughed. "Ah, good one. But back to business." He then said seriously. "As I mentioned, there are still more crystals to gather. Twenty of which you have left to find now. And as my evidence proves, the planets will align shortly, all thirteen of them. And this will build up a power that is great enough to split the Earth apart."

"But with the Crystals, they can absorb and contain the energy, thus saving earth." Aku Aku said.

"Precisely. Afterwards, we shall become heroes of this planet. And hopefully we shall, as the good book says, 'bury the hatchet' between us." Cortex said, before his hologram disappeared.

And unexpectedly, Coco's hologram appeared afterwards, much to their shock and surprise. "Crash?! Tawna?! Are you guys there? I've been looking everywhere for you guys!" Coco said urgently before she noticed Aku Aku. "Aku Aku, you found them! What a relief. Where are you guys?"

"Coco?! Is that you? How did you find us?" Aku Aku asked surprised.

"I just hacked into Cortex's computer to find you guys. But listen, I don't have time to tell you all this, but you have to be careful. Trusting Cortex seems a bit unwise guys." Coco said as her hologram got more static. "I can't keep the data pad open much longer! Crash! Tawna! You both need to find-" She tried to say, when her hologram vanished, signaling that it was cut off.

"Coco?! Coco!" Aku Aku called out after the hologram vanished.

"Well that was unexpected. But at least Coco now knows about our disappearance now." Tawna said.

"And hopefully she's hacking her way to learning about our location." Aku Aku said. Feeling confident that Coco could be trying to learn where they are as they speak. "Now we must continue this journey, and show her that we're okay." He then said.

"And hopefully, the sooner we complete this journey, the sooner we can see her again." Tawna said.

Now they looked around at the room until they saw Crash looking at something in interest. "What are you looking at?" Tawna asked. Causing Crash to point at what he's looking at in response.

Causing them to look where he's looking, and seeing a small podium that had two glowing pillars that curved inward to the futuristic looking podium, and looked like futuristic fluorescent lights that glowed pink. "What is that?" Tawna asked as the Bandicoots started to walk towards it.

"I don't know. I hope it's not dangerous." Aku Aku said, getting closer to the podium.

Suddenly, once they got close to the Podium, the podium glowed brightly as the Bandicoots had to cover their eyes a bit in the light. Then suddenly, a globe appeared above the podium. And there was some sort of futuristic computer room inside the globe itself, much to their confusion.

Suddenly, something, or somebody, ended up falling out of the globe, and onto her feet.

"Whew, what a landing. Hey guys, what's up!?" The person said after walking away from the globe as it disappeared. Much to the shock of Tawna and Crash.

Chapter Text

"Whew, what a landing. Hey guys, what's up!?" The person said after walking away from the globe as it disappeared. Much to the shock of Tawna and Crash.

Cause that person was none other than his sister, Coco Bandicoot herself. Who was dressed in her white shirt and overalls, while holding her pink, sticker ridden laptop.

"Coco?! Is that you, is it really you?" Tawna asked getting closer.

"Why of course it's me. I just got to this place via uh… science stuff." Coco said. Feeling like she's hiding something, but none of them noticed. "I know it's too complex for my brother so- oof!" She said, when she got dogpiled to the ground, while getting hugged by both Crash and Tawna as they both were happy that she was okay, and now with them and Aku Aku in the room as he smiled softly at them from above.

"It's so nice that you're here Coco. I thought for sure that you'd be pretty lonely back on the island, with only me, Crash, and Aku Aku going on this journey that I know is full of dangers." Tawna said happily. "That is, if you're joining us on this journey to save Earth. Are you?"

Coco laughed for a bit as she hugged them back. "Why of course I'm joining you all on this journey. Why else am I here? That is, if you all would let me."

"Why of course we would. Just so that you won't be lonely on the island waiting for us to come back." She said, while Crash gibbered and nodded fast. "After all, we could need your help in some sections during this journey. Especially with Brio."

"Brio? Oh! You mean Cortex's partner?"

"Former partner actually. Brio and Cortex had a falling out. And now, he's his enemy, and he's trying to impede our progress with helping Cortex save the world." Tawna said, before explaining to Coco about the search for her battery they were all on when Cortex teleported them to the warp room, to when Aku Aku found them, and followed them through the journey to this moment. All while Coco was listening to her, regardless of her confusion with Brio and Cortex.

"So bear with me for a minute. Both of you were teleported to this room by Cortex, so that all of you could gather Crystals for him, to save the Earth from this 'force', as N. Brio is trying to take you all down, even though he wants gems from all of you too? Well how come neither of you decided to collect the gems instead?" Coco asked confused, and a little annoyed.

"Because Cortex seemed like he's turning over a new leaf, and is legit trying to save the world from this force. Even though I still feel something a little fishy from this journey for him regardless of the evidence he showed us. Which is why we both feel like believing Brio, and helping him gather the Gems too. But after what we went through with the boulder chase, I'm leaning towards Cortex on this one." Tawna said, still angered at the fact that Kong tried to crush both of them with the boulder.

"I'm with you Tawna. If Brio really wanted us to stop collecting Crystals, then he would've outright told us that Cortex is a villain and give us plenty of reasons, and his own evidence, on why he shouldn't be trusted. Instead of sending minions to stop us. Because if you ask me, that makes Brio more of a villain." Aku Aku said, knowing of more ways that Brio could've told them on why to stop collecting Crystals for Cortex, that doesn't involve trying to kill them with Koala Kong.

Coco then seemed to ponder what to say next as she had her finger and thumb on her chin, in a sort of thinking pose. Before she then decided to look at both Crash and Tawna with a serious look in her eyes. "Well look, I know that you're all gonna think I'm crazy for suggesting this, but please, don't stop collecting the gems too. You'll thank me later."

That had Crash, Aku Aku, and Tawna shocked at Coco for what she said. "You're right. I'm sure you've gone crazy for suggesting that! Even though we told you that Brio is trying to kill us!" She said.

"I know! I know! But it's cause he's really, desperately trying to stop Cortex from taking all the Crystals. Trust me, he has a more noble plan for the Gems than you think, after… what I learned from his data! Regardless of what he's doing to achieve that plan. He's not a villain right now." Coco said defensively.

"Well not to say that we don't trust you, but why should we continue to gather the Gems for Brio, regardless of his attempts to kill us?"

"Like I said, it's because he has a more noble plan for the Gems, regardless of his means to achieve that plan. It's… what I heard while hacking his and Cortex's computers. I know he might be a little crazy, and he was an ally of his while we were both captives, but he has a good cause this time. Cortex on the other hand, does not. In fact, he might have worse plans for the Crystals than you think." Coco said in fear on the last part.

"And what are those plans that he has for the Crystals?" Aku Aku asked.

"I… actually don't know." Coco said with an awkward laugh. Cue a face fault from Crash and Tawna, while Aku Aku inwardly face palmed. "But what I do know, is that those plans of his might have zero good intentions. So trust me, keep collecting for Brio too, and soon I-err I mean, Brio will tell you guys what Cortex plans to do with the Crystals. Can you all do this for me?" Coco said, holding out her hand.

Which both Bandicoots were a bit hesitant to take for a minute. But they eventually took that hand anyway after getting back up. "Okay. But just in case that Cortex 'is' telling the truth about saving Earth, we're continuing to collect the Crystals too. Sound fair?" Tawna said, trusting Coco's word.

"Eh, so be it." She said shrugging. "But don't say I didn't warn you when he shows his true colors." Coco said. "Now, where to first?"

"Hmm… how about there." Tawna said pointing at the first level. Which was a pun name called Snow Biz. (Which did get a giggle out of both Tawna and Coco.)

That was when Tawna realized, (After their giggles stopped.) that she forgot something to ask Cortex for, which had her face palming. Which caught Coco's and Crash's attention. "What's wrong?" She asked.

"We forgot to ask Cortex for some coats just in case we run into another place on Earth that's in the snow. And I'm guessing that portal leads to such a place." Tawna responded as Crash also started to shiver a little bit. While Aku Aku just shrugged, not feeling cold. "Might as well just go through with it for now. But once we're talking with Cortex, we're getting coats for all of us."

"Fine by me." Coco said, before she noticed that Crash was laying something against the wall of the warp room. Which was the jet board. "Whoa! What's that?" She asked feeling surprised, yet excited.

"That would be a jet board. Cortex gave it to Crash as a gift, to help him cross any rivers or lakes that block our path to the Crystal." Tawna responded. "Doesn't seem useful for that level though. Considering that it's a snowy place." Tawna said.

"That board looks awesome." Coco said, feeling excited for surfing with the board once their journey is over.

"Ai knobw whight siths?!" Crash gibbered out, also feeling exited for using it for surfing when they're done.

"And hopefully it's all ours for playing with after this journey. Right now though, we have a world to save. So let's go!" Tawna called out.

"Right! Let's go!" Coco called out, before they proceeded to jump in the portal to Snow Biz.

Where sure enough, after exiting the chamber, they all were in a snowy canyon somewhere in Australia, complete with the ancient idols and architect, like back in Snow Go. Which led to them shivering. Even Coco was shivering at the snow. "Brrrr. I should've gotten coats, when I went ba- I mean, teleported to this place." She said with a shudder.

"No kidding. I hope we aren't gonna go through more of these snowy places in our journey." Tawna said with Crash nodding in agreement.

Nevertheless, they kept on going through the canyon towards what they hoped is another cave to mostly protect them from the cold air as they broke the boxes along the way.

It didn't take too long though, as they found another cave to keep going through. Much to their joy as they entered it to get out of the cold wind. Now they just looked around a bit at the green colored ice-like stone of the cave's walls, with Coco commenting that they look pretty, which Tawna agreed with her on as they were now running through the cave while collecting the boxes. All while climbing on the slanted ice patches with difficulty, which they also slid down because of their slipperiness.

Which caused Coco to end up falling on her butt as she slid down since she didn't skate before, so she had to practice a bit while Crash and Tawna oversaw the practice that she went through. All while giving her advice, and with both laughing a bit at her attempts due to how funny they were. "Reminding you of our first time skating Crashie?" She whispered with a chuckle.

"Ya ya." He gibbered back. While Aku Aku was inwardly face palming at the attempts, while trying not to crack up himself.

Coco kept on trying though, much to their joy as she was making them proud of her for not giving up on the ice rink. Until she was able to nail the skating as she was able to make a circle on the ice after a couple minutes of skating. "That's the way to do it!" Tawna said as Coco got off the ice. Before giving her a high five as well. As Crash gibbered out his praise as Aku Aku smiled warmly at her.

"Thanks Tawna." Coco said, happy to receive her praise from her and her brother, as they exchanged high fives. Before they all kept on going through the cave, making sure to avoid obstacles.

It wasn't too long, until they came across a platform that came after the ice slant, that happened to look like a red gem from the last snow level they went to. Which Crash and Aku Aku knew was a colored gem challenge platform. While Tawna and Coco wondered what it was, which they decided to ask Aku Aku about.

"It's a Gem challenge platform. It takes us to another part of this course, where we traverse through the path inside for another gem from that challenge, once we have the required colored Gem. Like the red one that we got from the first snow cave. It's what Crash and I went through on our way to rescue you both." He responded, as Crash got ready to get onto the platform. Only for Tawna to gently push him aside.

"I'll handle this challenge. Besides I'm sure that you and Coco may need some time together since you're both reunited." She said as she too prepared to get on the red Gem platform. "Don't worry Crashie. I'll handle this challenge. You just need to defend your sis too." Tawna then said bending down to kiss Crash's snout, as Coco rolled her eyes smiling at their romance. Before Tawna got on the platform before it carried her upwards to her challenge.

Before Crash could get saddened though, Coco got his attention. "Come on big brother! You still have me. Besides, we've got work to do! Come on!" She said with a smile while jogging ahead, with a smiling Crash and Aku Aku not far behind as they continued onwards through the cave. Both Bandicoots were giggling like siblings, excited for a new game that they're gonna get for Christmas.

Even if it wasn't a game, both Bandicoots knew that the journey they're continuing is bound to become fun, or have some moments of becoming fun. Especially now that the siblings are together again for the journey. Which is much to Crash and Tawna's relief, as they saw her as a little sister, (More so for Crash.) whom they'd protect and be there for. And they were gonna save the world together, which is also awesome. Right now though, they just ran side by side, breaking crates, and even sliding down some ice patches along the way to the other end of the cave where they hope to meet Tawna. "Yippee!" Coco yelled out on one of the ice patches going down like a slide.

All while also defeating the spinning penguins, and the porcupines that shield themselves with their quills. Both of which they waited for until the penguins stop spinning, and until the porcupines retract their quills. Like back in Snow Go only without the extra pits, ice patches, and more smashers that tried to smash both Bandicoots.

Only for them to predictably fail, as they were flexible enough to slide over the ground fast enough to dodge the attempted crushing stone, or the logs from the other crusher.

Which had Coco laughing at their attempts to smash them after they dodged the last set. "I guess their attempts fell 'flat'." She said, making her own pun about the smashers.

Cue what could've been a rimshot, and another sound of crickets as Crash and Aku Aku stared at her in confusion. "Get it? Cause they tried to smash- never mind, Tawna would get it. Come on!" Coco said, not wanting to ruin the joke, before they both continued onwards.

Then they went through another bonus room, collecting more boxes, blowing up TNT boxes, and jumping over pits, until they were able to reach the ladder to climb out of the bonus section.

Now they just had to continue their way through the cave together. Keeping each other safe from harm. Until they came across an ice slide. And someone familiar was sliding down it.

It was Tawna herself, who was going through the slide, and she doesn't seem to be stopping, as the slide kept on going, and she couldn't stop as she started to slide past the siblings. "Hey guys!" She called out.

The Bandicoot siblings and Aku Aku looked at where she was going. "Tawna? Where is that slide taking you?" Coco asked.

"Hopefully to the other end of this cave!" She said as she got closer to where she entered what happened to be a mouth of an ice cave with a hop. And then she fell in while making a "Come on!" Gesture.

"TAWNA!" Crash and Aku Aku called out running to the mouth with Coco in tow. Which he saw was an ice slide inside the section that Tawna was currently sliding down. So Crash hopped in himself while inadvertently taking Coco with him as all the Bandicoots were now sliding along the ice while Aku Aku flew along to keep up with them. With Coco yelling in panic while keeping her arms around the laptop to protect it from getting destroyed, while Crash gibbered along the way to Tawna, like he was trying to say "I'm coming darling!" to her, while Tawna herself started to enjoy the ride.

Especially since to her, and later Crash, it got fun as they slid through some caves in the slide which launched them in the air. With Crash following Tawna in one of the cave paths, while Coco took another with Aku Aku following behind her, before sliding off the ramps that launched them in the air as they passed each other, before soaring into the other small cave paths which they landed through with a sound like a pillow getting speedily sucked into a pipe.

In one of the paths, Tawna was sliding through the ice with Crash catching up to her via skating. Where soon, she gasped as she felt arms around her lower body that lifted her in the air as a laughing Crash was briefly celebrating his catch while lifting her over his head. Only to then see a small hole coming his way fast, which he fell in with a yell after dropping Tawna back onto the ice.

"Hopefully we're reuniting at the end." She thought as she continued her ride in the slide.

While Crash continued to slide around, even on the ceiling for a few seconds before sliding into another ice cave path. Where he reunited with Coco and Aku Aku as she kept a hold on her laptop.

"Hey Crash! Where's Tawna!?" She called out to him. Only for Crash to shrug in return as he didn't know where Tawna is so far. But he knew she'd be alright.

Until suddenly, there was thundering sounds behind them. "Oh no! Something bad is behind us!" Aku Aku announced. Causing the Bandicoots to turn, and see what they can describe as horrifying.

Another Bandicoot was behind them on the ice slide. Only this one looked pretty muscular, yet feminine, having green hair on her head, which could be barely seen under the helmet. She also happened to have a yellow and green colored tank top dress, olive green skin tight pants, and platform sneakers. And she had her sharp claws and her wolverine-like teeth bared, and she was roaring at the Bandicoots with the intent of killing them.

Cue the siblings screaming like little girls, (Literally for Coco.) as they both sped up in trying to get away from the Bandicoot that's trying to kill them, and to reunite with Tawna in the ice slide. While the mutant Bandicoot kept up the chase through the ice slide.

Soon though, they came across an iceberg that stuck out of the ground which looked like a ramp, but it also looked like they could be stopped abruptly like a wall. "Captain Crash! Iceberg ahead!" Coco warned him as he too yelled, but then he had an idea

He and Coco on his signal, split side to side around the iceberg and united on the other end, and kept on going, while the monster Bandicoot crashed into the berg and stopped. Only for the berg to end up cracking, and soon, fell down with the monster Bandicoot now riding it like a toboggan.

Crash and Coco ended up seeing up ahead of them that there was sharp icicles in their path. Which had them screaming again, until both of them noticed some clear paths to the left and right of the icicle floor. "Let's move there!" Coco called out. Before they both steered their ways to the paths, thus passing safely around the icicles, and hopefully ending the chase from the mutant Bandicoot.

Only for it to resume when they saw that the mutant was going towards the icicles herself, (Also making a scream like a little girl when she noticed them coming fast.) only for the iceberg that she used as a toboggan to take the brunt of the icicles as it got shredded by the pointy ends, with the monster barely making it to the other end unscathed.

Now the chase resumed as the Bandicoot siblings got to what they hoped is the final stretch. As they reunited with Tawna on what looked like a super ice slide. "Oh there you are! What took- WHAT IS THAT!?" Tawna asked in shock and horror at the sight of the monster Bandicoot.

"We don't know! She just came outta nowhere!" Coco called back. "Let's see if we can lose her at the end of this slide!"

"Okay! Got it!" Tawna responded. As they were now heading through the ice super slide on their way to the end of the course. All while racing the mutant Bandicoot. As well as each other, with Coco currently in the lead while Crash and Tawna was neck in neck. And the mutant in last place.

Tawna suddenly found their objective up in the air. Which was the power Crystal. Which had her wondering how to get it when she suddenly got launched up in the air to it by a ramp.

Which Crash and Coco noticed. "See if you can catch Tawna! I'll keep that thing busy!" She said. So Crash kept skating on the slide as he had his arms out in a catching motion as Coco taunted the mutant Bandicoot. "Hey ugly! Can't catch me!" She yelled out. Angering the mutant Bandicoot.

Now she was chased by the mutant as Crash saw Tawna being able to barely catch the Crystal in her hands. Now she was descending to him as Coco kept the mutant by dodging her swipes. "Come on! My granny's faster than that! You couldn't even catch a col-"

"WATCH OUT!" Aku Aku screamed out.

"What is it Aku- OH CRAAAAAP!" She then yelled out when she saw that she and Crash was heading fast towards the ice wall, that she knew could be the end of the ice slide.

Nevertheless, before she could panic, she saw another slide path to her right. Which could be another exit to the slide section. So she dodged another swipe from the mutant as she was able to jump her way to another slide path that connects to the alternate path. Which she was able to slide onto as it lead her out of the room they were in.

With Crash getting onto the same path, following his sister shortly after catching Tawna with the Crystal in her hand. The mutant wasn't so lucky, as she hit the ice wall after being unable to follow the Bandicoots, thus shattering it as she went through it. Which ended the chase there as the mutant roared in vengeance as the Bandicoots slid away.

Now the Bandicoots were safe from the mutant's wrath as they also got the Crystal. Now they just had to see if they're gonna make it to the end.

Which wasn't long, before they ended up getting launched up from the ramp into the outside of the cave they were in, and into the different snow canyon, where they landed on a big pile of snow that broke their fall. Even though they also got covered in snow from the resulting splash of snow from the landing.

Now they were catching their breath in the snow from the entire ice slide ordeal that they just got through, with Coco making breaths of relief since her laptop was safe and unbroken from the ride, while Crash also made sighs of relief that they were able to get out of the ice slide unscathed, while smiling at how fun it was at least without the monster getting involved. And while Aku Aku was relieved that the Bandicoots are safe for now.

"WHOA! WOO HOO!" Tawna yelled out as she slapped Crash on his back. "YEAH! Who's up for round two!?" She said excited at the ride they went through. Only to receive a glare from Coco in response due to the risk on her laptop involved.

While Crash looked at her in confusion while rubbing where his back was slapped. And while Aku Aku looked indifferent.

"Oh. Umm… right." She awkwardly said. "I-I should be more careful on ice slides." She then said softly as they all caught their breath outside. Before quickly getting moving on their way through the canyon, breaking every box in their path.

Soon, they got to the end of their journey in the snow. (For now.) Entering the teleporter chamber, they proceeded to collect the grey Gem, and go to the podium. "Hey Tawna?" Coco asked.

"Yes Coco?" Tawna asked back.

"I admit it. The slide was pretty fun." She then said smiling at her. "It would've been more fun without the risk of my laptop getting wrecked, and the mutant that chased us."

Tawna smiled back in return. "Thank you Coco. I hope that we'll have another slide coming up. And hopefully you won't lose your laptop."

"I hope so too." Coco then said. Before they all got on the podium, and teleported out of the snow level.

The Bandicoots were now in the Warp room, as they looked around for which portal to go next. "So, where too now Crashie?" Tawna asked.

"Hmm… ou bout dere?" He said, pointing at the portal that was named Air Crash.

"Looks like a good idea to go there. How bout we take the jet board there? There could be water in that area." Coco said.

"Sounds good to me. Come on Crashie, let's take that board with us!" Tawna said. With Aku Aku in agreement.

"Oday!"

Crash proceeded to grab the jet board, before quickly deciding to use the portal to Air Crash.

After exiting the chamber, the Bandicoots saw that they were going up the creek of another river. "Whoa! Thank goodness we kept the board with us." Tawna said.

"Dang doodnet dindee!" Crash said, also happy that he kept the board with him as he hugged Tawna.

"This is what you also went through Crash? Oh, I really should give you some wumpa cakes after this." Coco said somberly, aware that Crash can't swim. Which made her more thankful that he has a jet board for this level. "That's probably the only thing that I should thank Cortex for." She thought.

After her thought, Coco felt Crash patting her on the back in an assuring way, before she smiled back at him, before she proceeded to follow Tawna and Crash through the course over the river that was past the waterfall that they climbed over on the stone paths. Which looked like it had pretty strong currents, so they felt that even if they could swim, the river would be too strong for them as they'd probably get pushed hard down river. So all the Bandicoots had to find the section of the river that has the weaker currents for Coco and Tawna to swim on while Crash uses the jet board.

Right now, they had to keep going on the stone paths while breaking the boxes, and spinning away the carnivorous plants that attempted to eat them. And they hopped on the moving platforms that moved left and right through the water.

Along the way, Crash saw that the level they were going through was similar to the level Hang Eight, since the enemies were the same, with the carnivorous plants, and the robotic fish that jumped out the water, attempting to bite them, with the few differences being that there was moving platforms in the normal course, and he guesses that there are gonna be more floating mines up ahead. And that's not to mention that, unlike Hang Eight, he's got both Tawna and Coco with him.

Other than that, Crash feels that he's back in Hang Eight, only this time, with the jet board on his back, ready for use.

Speaking of ready for use, the Bandicoots were now on the dock, where they see that the river's current is not as strong as near the waterfall, which is a sign that it was swimmable. Yet there was something that interested Tawna, which was the single stone platform that she saw could be reached if she bounces on the boxes that made a row looking like a messed up right arrow.

"Wait guys. Before we start to swim, mind if I show Crash my skill in box bouncing? Betcha I can make it there without touching the water." Tawna said, challenging Crash.

"Uh-"

"Oday!" Crash gibbered out before Coco could respond, giving Tawna the okay gesture.

Which was her signal to jump onto the boxes and bounce on them to the platform, while leaving behind just enough for her to come back. Which much to Crash's pleasant surprise, she was able to get to on her first try as she got an applause from Crash, while Coco looked on in both pride, and confusion.

"How are you gonna come back to us?" Coco asked.

"I'll just bounce back with the remaining boxes, or just swim back. Duh- huh?" She tried to say, until she felt herself getting teleported on the platform.

Which she was, as she ended up vanishing in Crash and Coco's point of view, while she made a startled yell.

"Tawna?! Tawna!" Crash and Aku Aku called out when he saw Tawna teleporting in front of him, while Coco gasped in surprise. Which means he was alone with his sister again. Which he didn't mind in the slightest, he just hoped that Tawna is okay, from where she's going. And that she didn't get kidnapped by Brio.

Coco ended up hugging Crash from behind, hoping he isn't gonna breakdown in tears at being separated from Tawna again. Especially since her vanishing was unexpected to them both. "I'm sorry Crash. But please don't cry. Because I also hope she will come back to us too. We just need to keep on going through this course for her. Hopefully she's back in the warp room."

"I hope so too. In fact, I'm confident that she'll come back unharmed for us." Aku Aku said.

After a few minutes of tears, Crash had to agree with Coco and Aku Aku on that. Since he didn't wanna appear weak without Tawna with him. So he just bared with Tawna's disappearance, and keep going. "Danks siths, Aku Aku." He gibbered, hugging Coco back.

Then he proceeded to get back on the jet board after putting it in the water. Then he suddenly carried Coco in bridal style as she yelped in surprise, and used the board to cross the water to the other side, breaking the boxes along the way.

Little did they know however, a creature was hiding in the bush leaves near the river, and it was looking at the Bandicoots. Waiting for the chance to strike.

Tawna saw white leaving her vision when she found herself getting tossed in a warp room. Only that the room she was in looked different from the first and second room that they were in. Being that the room was outside in the dark. Where she saw some islands in the distance, that she recognized was the wumpa islands that she knew looked pretty far away from her location.

"Okay? Why am I here?" She asked herself as she looked around in the room, before seeing that the portal she was thrown out of was different.

Being that it was the portal to Snow go. Not Air Crash. Which was odd for her since she and Crash already completed Snow Go a little while before Coco met them. And they had the Gems, and the Crystal.

"Why am I here? And why should I go back to that place? I'm sure we completed everything there." She said. Then she noticed that there were other portal discs in the room, and they looked inactive as they didn't glow. She also noticed that there was rubble of a familiar castle that she used to be a prisoner of Cortex's on, causing her to realize that she's in what used to be Cortex's castle on the island, now turned to ruins. Which had her thinking more.

But she felt that she can think about this room later. Right now, she had to return back to the level where Crash and Coco are in, before they find trouble. So she ran around the room, trying to find another way back to the warp room that has the portal to Air Crash. Before stopping at the center after a little bit of running.

"Okay disc elevator, thing. Lift me back up to the main rooms." She said, remembering that the platform transported them upwards, which could take her back to the warp room.

Sure enough, she felt herself ascending as she saw the platform lifting her upwards. Soon, she saw that she's back in the warp room, only it was the first warp room that she's in again. She quickly stepped around on the platform to have it ascend again back to the second room, which it did. Then after it stopped, she quickly checked to see if it was Air Crash, then she dashed into the portal, trying to catch back up to Crash and Coco. "I hope the fun didn't start without me." She said.

Crash and Coco was back on land after crossing the water on his jet board. Coco appreciated Crash, for carrying her across the water in his arms on his board, even though she can swim. But she also noticed that the jet board seemed to cut through water like a hot knife through warm butter, to where it easily went forward through the water despite the current's push. Which had her amazed that the jet board on her brother's back had the capability to do that

"I should invent one of those for me when I have the time." Coco thought. Before they continued through the land from the dock.

Where they ended up hopping off of a hippo to a different section of the stone path, where they jogged onwards together, and spun away another plant that tried to eat them.

They were gonna continue onwards when Aku Aku caught their attention. "Look! There's the Crystal!" He said, seeing the purple glowing Crystal that was right next to their stone path. Much to their joy, as Crash quickly caught the Crystal in his hands.

The Bandicoots were gonna continue onwards when Aku Aku got their attention again. "Wait! What is that?!" He asked, pointing at the platform that had a skull, and bones that made an X on the platform.

"Whoa. That's so wicked." Coco said with a small shiver on her spine, being aware that the skull and bones making an X usually means death, or that danger is close. Which the latter associates with death on.

That was when Crash saw a note next to the platform, which he felt that Coco could read to him on. So he gave her the note as she began to read it.

"It says, 'Beware ye adventurers, for what you see before you is a platform that shall send folks to their doom. For what lies ahead for those that take this platform, is a dangerous course that would test your flexibility to its limit. Those that brave the platform death route, and succeed in surviving to the end, shall get a Gem as their reward. Those that don't, will simply perish, and they'll never be saved or found, for this route will be your tomb. If you don't heed this warning, then good luck.' and that's all that's on the paper." Coco said, noticing that there was no name of the person who wrote the note, let alone the 'sincerely' part.

"I guess he didn't want to be known, he just wants to warn us of what's ahead once we take that platform." Aku Aku said.

"Well, I'm guessing we either heed this note, or do what I believe that Crash would do. And just jump on. What do you think?" She then asked Crash, who miraculously stood still instead of jumping on the platform, thinking that there'd be a challenge that could come with it.

Crash ended up thinking about it for a minute. Before he then shrugged. "I day, led go bor id." He said, wanting to take on the death route, and see how hard it was. By jumping on the platform.

Which Coco quickly joined him on before it could float away. "So be it Crash. But once it gets too dangerous for us, we're getting back to this path. And pronto!" Coco said, feeling pretty excited to see what the course looks like, and see if they can take it on.

"Goob! Led do id!" Crash gibbered out as the platform floated over the trees and then to their west after they got on it. Where they knew they're going to another creek, where the death route could lie.

Except little did they know, the creature was in the trees. And it took it as its cue to get ready to make an ambush.

It was a little later, as Crash and Coco waited on the platform for the ride to end as Aku Aku floated nearby them. They were both pretty nervous, yet excited to see the death route, and see if their parkour skills could help win on the route, and net them their Gem, and survival.

Once the Platform touched down though, they were pretty disappointed at the sight before them. Which was just a stone square which was the largest they ever saw as it was above the water like there was logs underneath that was holding it up.

And a pair of Gems was on one end of the square, to the left, and right while in front of the level exit door, ready to be picked up by the Bandicoots.

Which initially for Coco, had her disappointed since she expected a challenge to be associated with the death route, but it seemed the platform was on the fritz, and delivered them to the end of the route. But she then saw the big square that looked like an arena of sorts, and saw the position of the Gem on the end of the course, looking like it could be either out of their reach, or in a cage of sorts that would only open once the boss is dead.

Which had her feeling nervous again when she realized that it could be a trap, and they were about to fight something.

Which was fueled a bit, when she and Crash got off the platform, and saw it floating away from them back to the area that they were in.

"Wait, hold up brother! Doesn't anything feel fishy around here?" She asked Crash.

"What do you mean?" Aku Aku asked.

"What I mean, is that with the way this square is laid out, you'd think that a boss battle is gonna happen. And I'm not saying that from video game experience, even though it is, but this seems like a large arena that we're gonna be walking on." She said. Causing Aku Aku to look at the square.

"You're right! It seems a battle is about to begin! Crash, try not to spring the-"

*Thunk* *Thunk*

It was too late, as Crash walked onto the middle of the square, the wooden cages surrounded the gems. And before they knew it, another creature showed itself, landing on the square.

It was another female Bandicoot mutant like the one back in the ice caves. Except this one was blond haired that trailed down to her mid back under her helmet, and she happened to wear a two piece jumpsuit, being form fitting as they hugged her figure, and it was also blue, with white in some spots. She also happened to be more sleek, and pretty tall, compared to the muscular mutant Bandicoot from Snow Biz. And she had her sharp claws and teeth bared at them, ready to kill them.

Both Crash and Coco screamed at the sight in front of them as they realized that the mutant is a boss that they have to face off against for the Gems. They hoped they would survive the fight that was about to happen.

"What are we gonna do?!" Coco yelled out after their screaming was done.

"Run circles around it!" Aku Aku said.

Which is what they did, as Crash and Coco ran around the mutant Bandicoot in circles to dodge the swipes of the claws, and the pouncing motions. All while looking for the weaknesses that the mutant Bandicoot could have on her, alongside Aku Aku.

All while they also hoped that Tawna is okay, and is coming back to help.

The mutant Bandicoot though, was quite fast as she tried to pounce like panther, on where the Bandicoots were with the Bandicoot siblings barely dodging her claws and her pounces. And after they separated in two directions, they were able to save each other when the Bandicoot nearly has one of them in her clutches.

And Aku Aku was of good enough help to them, by predicting moves of the mutant, and continuing to scan the mutant for weaknesses for both of them to use against her.

But the mutant was definitely a dangerous foe they're facing right now, and they still are even in the fight. Which they hoped would turn in their favor once Tawna comes back.

Speaking of whom, Tawna was quickly rushing back to the place where they separated, where she swam her way across the water to the other docks, where she redressed herself after drying off. Now she was sprinting, until she came across the same death route platform. And she realized that Crash might've used it himself. "If I know him well enough, he seems to like a challenge to his physical skills. So this seems to be no exception." She thought. Which had her deciding to use it too, to see if she can catch up to them. Which she knew she would if they were waiting for her.

Little did she know though, she's in for a surprise.

For Crash and Coco continued to fight against the Bandicoot, with the fight still being even with neither of them getting an inch on each other.

But they were holding on, and they were confident that Aku Aku could find a weakness on her, and that Tawna would be coming to help. They just had to continue to dodge and weave.

It took a little while, but Aku Aku was able to find one. "Aim for the head! It has surprisingly little armor, and it's the source of this mutant's power!" He then said, noting that the helmet wasn't as sturdy as it looked to where a little rock could break it once slung at it.

"Then let's fight back bro! I have an idea, and that'll make her think twice before attacking us, right bro?!" Coco asked. With Crash nodding back in return.

Then they decided to continue to dodge the pounces of the mutant, even though Crash took a scratch on the left of his abdominals, but he ignored the pain as he kept on dodging alongside his sister. Who also got scratched on her shoulder, but she too ignored it despite the pain that had her grunting.

After that, Coco stood on where she knew the section of the square would end up being soft enough for the mutant to get her claw stuck, before taunting the mutant to go after her when she tried to fight Crash. "Hey you, ugly! I'm here!"

That had the mutant taking offence to being called ugly, as she tried to attack Coco with her claws while Crash got ready to make his move, since he knew what his sister was planning after noticing the soft dirt under her feet.

Where after the mutant tried to attack Coco with her claw, Coco dove to the side side-first as she protected her laptop, causing the mutant to miss, and get her claw stuck on the dirt. Now she was trying to pull it out of the dirt, as Coco got up, then looked at Crash.

Which he quickly took as his signal to sprint his way to the mutant's back, before using his jumping trick where he slid, then jumped while spinning at the same time to ascend higher like a helicopter. Then after the spin, he proceeded to kick the helmet hard with his boot.

Which made a clang sound as the mutant lurched forward in pain at the contact on her head, which had her stunned, and had the helmet showing some sparks on it, which is a sign that it was gonna break after another blow. Which the mutant was trying not to let happen as she grunted before making a loud screech, making the Bandicoots cover their ears due to how loud it was.

Which the mutant took advantage of, as after she got her claw out, she ended up slapping Crash and sending him flying into one of the pillars of the square arena, leaving him stunned. "NO! CRASH!" Coco called out as she rushed to his side. Before the mutant was now stomping to them, knowing that she's got them both in her sights, and she was gonna end up killing, or capturing them both. Even as Coco put herself between the mutant and Crash, trying to defend her brother, while daring the mutant to go past her, as he recovered from the blow as he saw stars in his vision like in a cartoon.

A dare, that the mutant was planning to take.

Until she heard another voice. "Hey ugly!" Tawna's voice said out loud as the mutant turned angrily at her as she was now on the square herself. "Why don't you pick on someone your own size?" She said angrily, aware of Crash's stunned state, and the scratches he took from the battle.

The mutant ended up roaring at her before proceeding with the battle, with Tawna keeping the mutant distracted as Crash recovers with Coco's help.

It was minutes of fighting, when Tawna was able to get the mutant's claw stuck in another spot of dirt on the square. Which Coco took as her cue to make a similar jump. Only to just climb quickly onto the mutant's back. Then she vaulted herself on the mutant's right shoulder, before kicking the helmet herself. "For my brother!" She yelled out before the blow connected.

Another clang sounded, before she jumped backwards with a flip as the helmet sparked and electrified as it broke from Coco's second blow. Now the mutant was now roaring in pain as it moved around like a headless chicken getting electrocuted for a minute. Before she then fell down, defeated by the Bandicoots hands.

Now the Bandicoots were celebrating, as they hugged each other after Crash recovered from the blow the mutant made on him. "Yes! We survived the boss!" Coco called out excited.

"Wee did id! Yahoo!" Crash gibbered out as he jumped around with Coco and Tawna.

Once celebrations were done for now, Tawna and the Bandicoot siblings then looked at the wooden cages around the gems, and saw that the Gems were now uncaged as the cages ended up breaking into several pieces. "Whoa. That's all we had to do here?" Tawna asked.

"I think so. It seems we had to beat this mutant for those gems." Coco responded. "But this mutant looks different from the one we met in the ice caves. It seems there's more of them out there." Coco said nervously.

"At least we beat one of them. Now we know that they're not invincible mutants that we're fighting against. Even if they're also Bandicoots like us." Tawna said, relieving Coco and Crash. "I do wonder though, did Brio create them like Cortex did to us? Or were they already like this even before you beat Cortex and rescued us?" She asked Crash, who merely shrugged in response.

Then they saw the mutant again, only to see that the mutant shrunk a bit to where she was now around Tawna's height. And her claws ended up disappearing too, causing her to look less like a mutant, and more like them, most of all Tawna herself. Then the now mostly unmutated Bandicoot was now getting up as pieces of the helmet fell off of her head. "Aye eye eye. Mi fa male la testa. (My head hurts.)" She then said, in what Coco and Tawna recognized was Italian.

They then saw that the female Bandicoot in front of them that was standing up, looked like Tawna. She even looked as tall as Tawna, if not a little bit taller, and she looked more svelte with her bust size being a little smaller than Tawna's, and her hair was more styled on her right. She also had a beauty mark on the upper left of her mouth, which Tawna lacked on her own face.

And she was getting up while holding her head in pain, until she then looked around in confusion. "Where am I? I remember that I was in the Tranto zoo, then I'm in a lab, and now I'm here." The Bandicoot said, having a thick Italian accent. "And… I feel… different for some reason. What happened…" She then said, until she then saw water. Causing her to look in the water at her own reflection, seeing what she herself looks like.

"Whoa. This is me?" She said, before she did some posing on the stone in front of the Bandicoots as they looked on in confusion and surprise at how they found another Bandicoot like them.

"Who is this lady?" Tawna quietly asked.

The Bandicoot then ended up smiling at her reflection. "I don't know what happened to me that changed me into this, but I like what I'm seeing." She then said, admiring her reflection, and feeling proud that she looks like what her reflection was showing her.

Tawna ended up snapping out of her state, before deciding to talk to the Bandicoot. "Hello?" She asked, coming close to her alongside Coco and Crash.

Which caused her to turn around, and look at them in confusion, showing that her eye colors were blue. Before she then got surprised. "Wha? So I'm not the only one who is like this? Heh, what a relief. Salve! (Hello.) Who are you folks?" She asked.

Coco, after seeing that the Bandicoot was now friendlier than last time, decided to go first. "Hello! My name is Coco, Coco Bandicoot, and this is my Brother, Crash Bandicoot." She said introducing herself and Crash, who wave back with a smile. "And this is Tawna, his girlfriend."

"Nice to meet you." Tawna said, holding out her hand for a handshake. "And the floating mask up there is Aku Aku." Tawna said, introducing Aku Aku. Who also told her that it was nice to meet her.

"Likewise." She said, shaking Tawna's hand. "I'm Isabella. I was born somewhere that I believe is Australia. But I was raised in Italy. And I was one of the popular animals in the Tranto zoo, I reckon. At least until I was taken, and next thing I know, I was in a lab for a while, and now I'm here." The Bandicoot known as Isabella said with a smile.

"Taken? Then I believe he used the evolve-o-ray to transform you into this, as well as used that helmet to make you more vicious and scary." Aku Aku said.

"Vicious? Scary?" Isabella asked, before looking with a gasp at what is left of the helmet that she wore. "So that's why I blacked out. I'm sorry if I did any damage to you guys." She said somberly. "At least something good came out of this." She then said, referring to her figure.

"It's okay. We can take the pain. Especially my honey bunny that went through a lot to rescue me." Tawna said flirting with Crash as she hugged him and rubbed his head. As he giggled in appreciation, while Isabella looked on in slight envy. "Besides, you didn't do too much damage to us. But who knows what other mutant, is bound to meet us sometime in this journey?"

"You mean there are others like me and you guys?"

"Yes. And hopefully we may help them break free, and become friends with them too. Quick question though. Who took you, and changed you into this? If I may ask." Tawna asked, wondering if Brio had other Bandicoots to mutate.

"I… don't really know. All I know is that there was two scientists. One was bald, and he had some sort of screws on the sides of his head, sorta like Frankenstein, and the other had bald spots on his head with silly hair on the sides of the back of his head, also had a beard and moustache, and for some reason, he had an upper case N on his big head." She said.

Tawna instantly recognized who the scientists was by their looks. And she wasn't happy about that. As was Coco and Crash. "That would be Nitrous Brio and Neo Cortex. They're scientists, and evil ones at that. Well one of them is." She said, before she then explained to Isabella about their journey that they're on, that involved both Brio and Cortex, as well as what they're after that Cortex sent them for, as well as what they also collected, that Brio sent them for as well.

Once they were done, Isabella wasn't pleased. "So you're all trying to save this world with this Cortex fellow, and yet Brio is trying to stop you all from doing it? Especially by doing what he did? That scemo. (Fool.)" She said, referring to the boulder chase. "And yet you all are collecting Gems for that fool?"

"Well yes. Considering that he happens to be trying to use the Gems to screw over Cortex, who wants the Crystals for evil doing. According to Coco at least."

"It's true. He's just desperately trying stop us from helping Cortex win. He's not a bad guy right now." Coco said defensively.

"Well if what you say is true? Then why not the Gems only?" She asked pointing at the Gems that are behind them.

"Because none of us know if Cortex is truly the villain, or if he's trying to be good for once. Either way, we must collect the Gems and the Crystals to find out." Tawna said.

"Well, mind if I tag along? You all might need another partner for this journey. It's the least I could do to thank you all for freeing me from Brio's control. And to apologize for trying to kill you all." Isabella said, wanting to help.

"I don't know. What do you think brother?" Coco asked Crash.

Who gave it some thought. Before he decided to just nod his head, showing that he would let her come along.

"So be it. Welcome to the team Isabella." Coco said as Tawna smiled too. Approving of her joining.

Isabella smiled back at them in joy. "Grazie mille a tutti. (Thank you all so much.) I hope that I won't let you all down." She then said. Before they all proceeded to collect the Gems from the podiums, before going through the exit chamber door, and to the teleportation podium.

"What is this podium?" Isabella asked.

"It's to teleport us back to the warp room. So we can teleport to the other parts of the world for the Crystals and Gems." Tawna responded. Before pulling Isabella onto the podium along with her, Crash and Coco, as the Bandicoots teleported out of the level.

Their journey is continuing from there. And it was about to get interesting.

Chapter Text

In N. Brio's lab, the doctor himself was currently looking at the computer screen with a scowl on his face when he saw the stats on the screen, showing that the Bandicoots were still on the move. Not only that, but he saw that they still had a purple glowing power Crystal in their pockets that they plan to give to Neo Cortex.

"Those imbeciles. D-D-Don't they know what they're gonna g-get themselves into if they get all the Crystals for that traitor? At this rate, Earth is in t-t-trouble." Brio said.

Sure, he might've been a villain that fought against Crash when he and Cortex was still a team, but despite his stuttering and sporadic laughing that made him look like a lunatic, he still had standards compared to Cortex. And he'd rather that Earth doesn't get destroyed, or worse, turned into a wasteland.

So he felt that since the Bandicoots didn't listen to his warning about Cortex, he decided to fight the Bandicoots as he sent his minions against them like last time.

However, not even Ripper Roo was able to defeat them, as he was beaten himself. And Koala Kong was unable to block them from finding another one. But he felt that Kong will get them next time.

Right now, little does he know, he has only a trio of strong minions that shall take down the Bandicoots once they teleport to the next warp room that they should be going to.

And if not, then his next strong minion will be the one to defeat them and take back the Crystals from Cortex. Even though he's short on minions himself, so he knows that he has to be careful with his minions, or he'll have only himself to fight them. And he admits, he isn't good at fighting in close combat.

"I-I-I admit, I'm not a strong scientist, as even C-C-Cortex himself could overpower me. And I still shudder thinking about that fortress f-f-fire." He said to himself, still feeling the heebie jeebies about having to turn into a Hulking monster to fight Crash as. Only to not only lose to him, but also witness their old fortress burning to ash.

Brio couldn't stop himself as he shed a tear down his face. "And I still blame myself for causing that f-f-fire. It seemed like a good idea at the time. Now I have only my own lab to work from." He said solemnly.

"A-at least I have comfort in knowing that t-t-they have also collected those G-G-Gems along with those C-C-Crystals." Brio said with a smirk, feeling that he's getting closer to his goal, should they keep on collecting the Gems.

"But still, I must stop those Bandicoots from getting all of those C-Crystals, or they'll do something that I know they'll regret once Cortex takes over the world." Brio said. "And even though what I'm doing is a bit extreme, I h-h-have to do this. I n-n-need to do this! And they'll thank me later, if they live and see C-C-Cortex for the rat he is!" Brio said.

"Hey Brio-sama! I'm a-afraid I have some b-bad news!" An assistant said in a Japanese accent. Causing him to turn with a scowl on his face to her direction, seeing a female Bandicoot wearing a professor's outfit and his mind control helmet. Nonverbally telling her that he's listening.

"One of your fellow Bandicoot minions has been defeated. They have destroyed her helmet." She said.

"W-W-WHAT?!" Brio asked shocked. "I t-thought that helmet was sturdy!"

"Not hers I believe. And what's worse, she might be on their side now." She said.

"WHAT!? NO!" Brio exclaimed in rage and horror. "Now I have another Bandicoot to f-f-fight and d-destroy! Which minion lost her helmet?"

"The tallest and flexible of us I'm afraid." The assistant said somberly.

"Drats! Now I have only the S-s-strong one to fight those Bandicoots, and that big brain of yours b-b-better be ready to fight in a mech suit that you're gonna ride in when I send you in too." Brio demanded.

"But what about the quick one?" She asked.

"She's gonna be fighting them in the s-s-sewers in the next room, when they get there. But once she fails, then the strong one will to f-f-fight them again. So get that suit ready." He demanded.

"Yes sir Brio-sama! But there's something else." The assistant said.

"What is it this time?" He asked.

"The strong one reported that they had another ally with them that isn't that floating mask. It was the blonde ponytailed Bandicoot girl." She said.

"That B-B-Bandicoot girl?! The smart one?! B-B-But how? She should still be on the island!"

"That's what we've been reporting too. Maybe she brought a clone to them?"

"NO! That would be I-I-impossible with the resources she has. I d-d-don't know how she got there, but she too must be destroyed. Send in the strong Bandicoot!"

"Yes sir!" She responded, exiting the room for her vehicle as Brio looked at the screen again.

"I apologize for what I'm a-about to d-d-do. But you leave me no choice. Your journey for the Crystals must end in failure. And if not in that room, then the other room up ahead. And then that room after it, should you all s-s-survive it. I s-s-swear it." He growled out.

Then he looked behind him again to see a pale girl appear behind him in the shadows, as she was smiling at him with happiness. "You. Make sure that if they try to pass those C-C-Crystals to C-C-Cortex or his assistant, you shall prevent the process from being carried out. Understood?" He ordered. Causing her to nod energetically with a giggle.

The bandicoots landed in the warp room with Isabella in tow as they saw their Gems and Crystal stuck on a wall near the portal. "Whoa. What is this place." Isabella asked.

"It's a warp room. Think of this as our hub area to travel from to other worlds. Even though it's a little cold here." Tawna said, still feeling the cold air inside.

"I see. It looks pretty in here though. Very Bello. (Pretty.)"

"I agree with you on that. Even though we were in a cold place. And this room doesn't help with the cold. At least it had a fun slide though." Tawna said.

Then Isabella noticed the board that Crash set down on the wall. "What is that?"

"That is a surfboard that Cortex gave to us just in case we come to any rivers. Since Crash isn't a good swimmer, he needs that board when we're at another river." Tawna said. "I have to admit, I hope we can keep that board after we're done on this journey."

"I hope so too. It looks so Freddo. (Cool.)" Isabella said, imagining herself surfing in the waves on the same board. And with Crash surfing by her side.

Then she thought about something else that had her looking on in shock, and holding her head when she had a migraine at the memory. "Oh, dear. Remember the question I asked back in there, about the other Bandicoots?"

"Yes. Why?" Tawna asked curiously.

"Well, I remember now. There was three more of us that were my friends before we were made to wear the helmets that Brio built for us. I now know that they're still under his control, and that they must be freed." She said concerned for her friends.

"You mean, there are other Bandicoots that are your friends? Do you remember who they are?" Coco asked.

"Si. They're Megumi, Ami, with an I at the end, and Elizabeth, or Liz for short. I remember that we were there for each other when we got scared of the place that we knew isn't our home. Especially since it was their fortress that we were experimented on inside." She said, now remembering her interactions with them, how they kept on calming each other's nerves after their sessions with Brio and Cortex. And in their dungeon rooms that lacked any mirrors for them. "Thankfully, we were saved by Brio when the fortress caught fire, but it was mostly cause we were still of use for him. I hope that all of them are still alive. And if so, I hope we can save them from his mind control helmets." Isabella said, trying not to cry.

After all, they are friends with each other, and she'd be saddened to see them gone. Tawna noticed her concerned look, and put her hand on her shoulder to calm the Italian Bandicoot down.

"Don't worry Isabella. When we meet them, we'll do our best to free them too. I promise." Tawna said, not wanting to see Isabella sad.

Isabella smiled at her in response, thankful to have Tawna for a friend alongside Coco and Crash.

"Now, where to now?"

"How about there." Coco pointed at the portal, that happened to have the name, Bear it above it. Complete with bear pawprints. (Which got a giggle out of Coco and Tawna, while Isabella facepalmed at it.)

"Okay. Let's split up for a bit. Me, Crash, and Aku Aku will go in there. You and Isabella will go in the other portal. Then one of us, or all of us are going to the next one if we're all in this room once we're done." Tawna said, pointing to the portal that said Crash Crush.

"Right. We'll do it. Just make sure that big brother will be safe in your care. Coming Isabella?" Coco asked as she headed to the Crash Crush portal.

"Si, I'm coming." Isabella said following Coco into the portal. While Crash and Tawna went in the portal to Bear it.

The first thing that Crash, Aku Aku, and Tawna saw after exiting, was that they were in yet another snow path in a canyon. Which had them shivering again. "Did I mention that I'm not fond of running through the snow canyons?" Tawna said.

"Ya." Crash gibbered while nodding.

"Yes you have." Aku Aku said.

"Thought so." Tawna said as they both jogged ahead through the snow canyon hoping to find the nearest cave. All while breaking the boxes in their way for the Gem. Which was easy, and not too hard while on the ice together.

Eventually they found a cave together. Which they proceeded to enter to get out of the wind and the snow. Now they were warming up in the cave as they looked at the interor, and saw that it was like the other caves they entered, only that it was a bit bigger than last time.

And Tawna took an educated guess as to why. Being that the titular bears could be roaming the cave that they're in. Which on that note, had Tawna quickly feeling horrified at that, as she felt a shiver up her spine. "Oh no. I think we're in a bear's cave Crash." Tawna said scared. "And trust me, bears are not the type of animal that you can trifle with and walk away unscathed from. So please be careful in here. Or we're both bear chow."

"O-oday." Crash said nervously. Having learned about bears from Coco, and seeing them as cute and cuddly, yet frightening and dangerous when provoked. So he and Tawna treaded with caution through the cave.

All while making sure that the boxes they break doesn't make any loud noises that could attract the bears in the cave.

As they went though the cave, they looked around at the interior, and admired how the cave was as beautiful as the other ice caves that they entered. Even stopping once to look at their reflections. With Tawna admiring herself in the ice mirror for a bit. She felt that the polar bears could also have used the ice mirrors to look at their reflections themselves like humans do as they proceeded onwards.

Where despite their careful footsteps, they didn't step with enough care as they ended up slipping on an ice patch. Which led to the ice slide that had them falling on their backs as they slid in another ice slide in the cave. Only this one was more shorter than the last one as it lasted at least five seconds, before they ended up dropping down a hole that lead them to another section of the cave while landing with their limbs tangled. With Aku Aku close behind them.

Tawna moaned after the drop due to getting stunned. When she ended up opening her eyes, she had to stifle her shriek of fear when she saw that a Bear was sleeping in front of her face. Even though that bear in her face was an adorable cub, but she knew that even a cub could be dangerous if provoked. (And that's not getting into what it could be like with a mother by the cub's side.)

Then she noticed that Crash was in her bosom again as he tried to get up with difficulty due to being under her. Causing her to get up and back away from the cub as Crash looked around at his surroundings until his eyes focused on the cub. "Careful Crash. The momma bear would get mad if it wakes up and calls for her. Just keep quiet, and walk carefully." She whispered.

*Crash*

Not that it'll do her any good however, as the bear woke up anyway after an icicle fell down from the vibration of their fall, much to her horror. Even though Crash was merely looking on in curiosity at the cub that woke up, and yawned before looking around in wonder of what's in front of him. Which made things tense for Tawna, as she hoped the bear won't call out for the momma bear. And she hoped that Crash won't do something stupid to cause the bear to do so.

Fortunately, the bear doesn't end up making any noises of distress, rather than it just merely got up and looked at Crash with curiosity.

"Hadow!" Crash called out to the bear, holding out his hand.

The bear flinched at that, but didn't look scared as it looked at Crash's hand in curiosity. Before it then decided to give it some licks like a dog companion while Crash decided to pet it. Which the bear appreciated as it whined in approval. Much to Tawna's surprise, since she didn't think the bear would be curious and naïve of visitors.

"S-so that bear isn't mean? Whew. I thought we were screwed at this point." She said.

Then the bear ended up barking before standing up on the hindlegs while licking Crash's snout like a dog. Making him giggle in appreciation as he gestured to Tawna to come close. Which she did, even though she still kept on her toes just in case the bear ends up getting scared of her. Which it initially did, but Crash kept on reassuring it that she's a friend, and that she won't hurt it. So it merely studied her as she ended up keeping still and making no sudden movements that would provoke it.

The bear ended up merely smiling at her in greeting before barking a bit. Showing that it trusts her too. Much to her relief. "Hello there little guy, it's nice to meet you." She said petting its head.

Before Crash then explained to the best of his ability to the bear about what they're after. Which was a Gem that can be gained once they break all boxes, and a Crystal. And he hoped that the bear could be of some help to them. Which had it thinking about it for a bit. Before nodding.

And then it proceeded to walk forward a bit to the other cave mouth, like it was leading them to there, before bracing itself. "I think he's letting you ride him." Aku Aku said, pointing out that it's a male Polar bear cub.

Which Crash quickly understood. Before carrying Tawna on his back, making her gasp, before making a running start on the bear before jumping onto its back and having it roll forward before it galloped. Causing them both to ride the Polar bear like a horse, (And for Crash, like a large hog.) as it ran out of the cave and to the canyon.

Which, despite its size, and its looks, it was running as fast as one, as it was running through the canyon as it turned where Crash wants it to turn. Much to Tawna's surprise, and excitement as they were running through the canyon at a fast rate while turning to break every box that they find using the cub's strength. Even though they were feeling the cold wind on their fur.

But they didn't mind as they felt that they could get done with the Gem and Crystal at this rate as the Polar bear ran at fast speeds when Crash urged the bear forward, and jumped over the fallen statues as well as the ones that are still standing, along with jumping over the gaps in the ice that was full of ice cold water, while they also dodged around the orcas that jumped out of the water. While on the other ice patches, the bear was sliding on his belly. (Which they both thought, was an adorable sight.)

All while slowing down enough to make sure not to miss any boxes in their path that isn't a TNT box or a Nitro Box that they felt, could explode simply by touching it. Even though they missed some boxes, they had Polar doing some quick turning to go back to the box and break it before going back to their ride forward. They were having fun with their ride on the bear.

But that was coming to an end when they ended up getting to an open area with circular walls around it, where a crystal was floating in the middle of the area. "That's it! That's what we're after! Steer the bear closer!" Tawna said.

Before Crash could respond, a mechanical bear appeared out of nowhere and took the Crystal in its claws. Having dark colored armor all over its body, it was the stuff of nightmares for Crash and Tawna. Also, there was a glass dome on its head that had another Bandicoot mutant inside the dome. And she controlled the robotic bear from in there. And she had the Crystal in the mechanical bear's clutches.

"Oh no! It's another mutant Bandicoot like us! And she's piloting that bear?!" Tawna said shocked.

"I apologize for this. But Brio-sama ordered me to stop you from taking those Crystals for Cortex. I hope that you'll both understand." The Bandicoot said in her Japanese accent, before initiating the fight with the duo.

Which started with her trying to crush them under the mighty paws of the mechanical bear, but the bear cub was fast as it dodged the crushing paws of the bear feeling distressed. "Aku Aku! Can you find a weakness on that mech?!" Tawna asked.

He didn't need to be told twice, as Aku Aku floated around the bear to scan for anything for them to damage the bear with as the bear cub continued to run around the bear, avoiding its crushing attacks.

"I'm sure this isn't working. Time to use different weapon!" She then said before transforming her mechanical bear's claw into a laser that shot out some beams out at the bear cub and the Bandicoots.

It wasn't an automatic laser, so they had enough time to dodge the incoming laser blasts with the cub's help. All while Tawna kicked around at the mechanical bear in hopes that she can find a weak spot to hit on the bear.

Even though they both got some laser burns from the lasers grazing their fur, but they can heal from it in due time. And at least the bear cub didn't end up getting hit as well, but it knew the lasers were dangerous, and kept on dodging the lasers while yelping.

"Stand still please, it will end soon if you don't dodge my attacks." The mutant said.

Tawna and Crash didn't listen however, as they kept on dodging her lasers. "I'm guessing that you're not gonna give us mercy if we do that though?" She asked.

"Sadly, no. Brio-sama ordered me to eliminate the Bandicoots, Gomen'nasai. (I am sorry.)" She said.

"Then we can't give up! We won't give up!" Tawna said determined.

Aku Aku was then able to find the weakness of the bear after a little bit of flying around it while getting ignored by her. "Hit the ankles, that should stun the bear mech for a bit." He called out.

They didn't need to be told twice. As before the mechanical bear could react, they ended up kicking the ankles of the mechanical bear causing it to fall on its belly.

Then of course, they ended up rushing to the paw of the mechanical bear before yanking out the crystal out of the paw and quickly running away.

"NO! Don't run! Give me the crystal back!" She yelled out as she had her bear mech rising back up. Before she then had the bear mech chasing after the Bandicoots and bear cub.

And despite the seemingly heavy steel body of the bear mech, it was also speedy as they saw the mech in hot pursuit of them as they were being chased by the bear that the mutant Bandicoot was piloting. And she didn't seem to be faltering in her chase as she kept on trying to gain on them.

"Can this bear go any faster?" Tawna asked Crash, who urged the cub with bursts of speed, making sure to keep some distance between the bear mech and the cub they were riding, all while breaking the rest of the boxes in their path.

Suddenly, they were at a sudden dead end of the road, as a large pile of snow was blocking their path as the bear abruptly stopped near the snow pile. Now they all were looking on in horror as the mutant Bandicoot's bear mech was now walking forward, confident that they have nowhere to run now that they're trapped at the snow pile. 

"Heheheh, I'm guessing that mercy is still out the window?" Tawna asked, hoping that at least a part of the mutant Bandicoot would be merciful.

Before the mutant would respond though, a roar sounded through the air as they all turned to the source of the roar. It was none other than the mother bear that was leaping off the canyon wall with vengeance in its eyes as it pounced on the bear mech.

Tawna was relieved that it wasn't either of them that the mama bear focused her wrath on. Considering that she heard about the protective nature of the mother bear from Coco and her laptop, she felt that no matter the danger that the bear cub might end up facing off against, the mother bear would take it down with the brutality of a warrior. Even a mighty mech would be of no match for the fiery wrath of a mother protecting her children.

Case in point, despite getting some hits in, the mutant Bandicoot in the mech ended up losing to the mother bear after some minutes of combat, ending in the mech getting stomped on by the paws and hind feet of the bear. And pretty soon, the mech was destroyed without problems. While the mutant had no choice but to flee from the battle via teleportation, to fight another day.

After what's left of the mech was destroyed, the mother bear got off and focused on the cub as Crash and Tawna got off to let the cub and mother have their space as they ended up cuddling together, with the mother happy that the cub was okay. While the cub ended up telling the mother that the Bandicoots were in need of some help from him, and he merely wanted to help them since they were friendly to the cub.

Which caused the mother bear to merely give them respectful nods to them, for being nice to her cub, and at least trying to protect her cub from the mechanical bear that threatened them.

Then the mother and cub were ready to go back to the cave, but the cub ended up speaking in a bear's language to the mother one, which Tawna felt, is a request to join the Bandicoots on their journey through the world to grab the Crystals.

Like it was repaying the Bandicoots for the fun run through the canyon.

The mother bear was reluctant to let the cub go, as she wanted the bear cub to follow her back home, but Crash ended up signing to the bear that they will protect the cub with their lives if the cub goes with them. And that Earth is in danger, and that they're gonna save it. And he felt that the cub could be of good help to them. Which Tawna doubted could be understandable to the mother bear.

Only to then see the bear understanding Crash's sign language when the cub translated it to the mama bear. Much to her surprise. Now it was up to the mother bear to see if the cub can come with them.

It took a little while, but the mother bear eventually nuzzled the cub as she accepted letting the cub come with them on their journey. Just as long as the cub makes it back home once their journey is done. Which the cub promised as he and Crash proceeded to Tawna and the snow pile that blocked their path. "I'm guessing that the bear cub is our companion now?" Tawna asked, getting a nod from Crash in return. Before the cub then dug his way through the pile to collapse it so they can reach the other side with Crash and Tawna close behind.

Once at the other end of the pile, their ride on the cub resumed as the cub galloped through the canyon with Tawna and Crash on his back, making sure to break the boxes that's in his path.

"So Crashie! What're you gonna call the cub?!" Tawna asked during the ride.

Crash had to think about it for a bit, until he had an idea for the name that is pretty simple. "Polar!" He gibbered.

"Polar? Not a bad name! Welcome to the team, Polar!" Tawna said, to the now named cub as he galloped through the canyon to the end while breaking all the boxes. Giving them a Gem to earn for their troubles as they got back to the room.

Meanwhile… with Coco and Isabella,

The blonde Bandicoots were getting chased by a boulder that Coco remembered being told about by both Bandicoots, was what they also got chased by. Much to her chagrin since she was quite attached to both of them. (It's what a little sister would do.)

How they got to this moment though was simple and short. They were running through the jungle and breaking the boxes together, until suddenly they heard a roar behind them. Then turned to see the same muscular mutant Bandicoot, much to Isabella's shock and horror, seconds before the mutant tossed the boulder forward as it rolled with the intent to flatten the Bandicoots.

Fortunately, they were too fast and flexible as they dodged the pits, the mines, and even the electrified gates. Not giving a single inch to the boulder.

"What had you shocked to see that mutant before it threw the boulder? Did she seem familiar?" Coco said. Deciding to make conversation with Isabella during their run.

"Si, ovviamente! (Yes, of course!) It's Ami! That's one of the Bandicoots that I was captured with before we were given helmets!" Isabella responded.

Coco made sure not to stop in place out of shock as she stared at her with wide eyes. "Y-you mean, the mutant that we met in Snow Biz's ice slide, and the one that just threw that boulder is Ami? What was she like?"

"She was pretty full of herself sometimes due to her strength, pretty much to where she acted more like a man, but she was friendly and kind towards us, and she had a sense of humor. She was basically the strong sister of our group. One that would protect us from harm."

"And who was like the eldest sister?"

"You're looking at her. I may have my moments, but I acted as the big sister of our group alongside Liz. We had to keep us from panicking during our stay there. Especially after some of our sessions of getting experimented on. It was pretty hard, but I did a good job with her help. I just hope that I can still be like one when they're all free."

Coco ended up feeling pretty sorry for Isabella for her stay at the old Fortress of Cortex's. She initially thought that she was a monster in her mutated form, but she instantly thought of her as a friend when she was back in her true form. And she felt that none of them deserved to be mutated and experimented on by some evil scientists. She wanted to hug her, but she knew that it had to come later.

For right now, they just had to make sure that the boulder doesn't end up crushing them underneath, and they hoped that the chase would end soon.

Thankfully, it did, as they quickly came up on a path of planks that they knew could carry their weight, but not the boulder's, as they sprinted to the other side of it as they then saw the boulder now falling in the pit once the planks shattered under the weight. Now they had some minutes of catching their breath before they could move forward through the path, breaking any boxes that they see.

All while the mutant named Ami was growling at them, angered that she failed in taking them down again. But she knew she can get 'em next time.

Right now though, the Bandicoots broke every box in their path even in the split paths that they both took, one of which had the Crystal on it, before eventually getting to the exit, where they got the grey gem, and returned back to the warp room.

Where they ended up meeting up with Tawna and Crash, as they were gonna enter the portal to Eel Deal. Only to see them first. Then they noticed that there was a Polar bear cub in the room as it sat next to one of the portals.

"Aww, how adorabile! (Adorable!)" Isabella said, finding the bear cub cute looking alongside Coco. "Where did you get that?"

"We met him in the Bear It level. He was a curious bear that wanted to follow us on this journey. And with permission from the mama bear, we accepted adding the cub to the team." Tawna said. "And it was a good move, since the bear was fast for a cub."

"Wow! Awesome!" Coco said smiling at the cub. With Isabella in agreement.

"Now we have that room left, then we're going to the next warp room where we can grab more Gems and Crystals for Brio or Cortex." Tawna said, pointing at Eel Deal.

After some preparation, and having Polar stay in the warp room so he'll be safe, they entered the portal to the level.

"Yech! I didn't think that we'd be going through this place." Isabella said as they entered what happened to be a sewer level. Which was much to Isabella's dismay since sewers were disgusting to her.

"Neither did I. I feel that we should've stayed in the room to watch the cub." Tawna said, also feeling chagrined that they're in a sewer, as she too finds sewers disgusting.

But they knew that saving the planet was too important to ignore, as they bared with the disgust before following the group forward in the sewer pipes regardless of how dirty they could be in doing so.

Thankfully for them, the sewer they were in was quite clean, thanks to the brush bots that roamed in the pipes. Even though, being a sewer, they still smelled some strong stenches nonetheless as they followed Crash and Coco through the sewer.

But the stench were the least of their worries, as the sewer had some puddles of water that was knee deep for both Bandicoots, and had eels inside. "There's eels inside the water, better stay out of the water just in case!" Coco said, standing on a floating platform alongside Tawna and Isabelle.

When Crash looked at her, nonverbally asking why, the eel ended up electrifying the water before Coco could answer. Causing Crash to get shocked alongside the water as the other Bandicoots cringed at the sight of Crash getting electrocuted in the water, showing his skeleton and his pink boxers for a minute, before it ended as Crash got out of the water before falling over on the other end of the gap, with his fur singed and charred black.

"That's why." Coco said, cringing at seeing her brother getting shocked.

As well as concerned for him alongside Isabella, but she and Tawna knew that Crash can take the pain. As proven when he got up and shook his charred fur to get the soot off. Getting a confused look from Isabella.

"Don't worry. Crash can take the pain." Tawna said. "Besides, I know he now understands why he shouldn't be in the water with the eel."

Isabella knew that he should save her questions for later, as she continued to follow the trio through the sewer, going through the pipes, avoiding the waters where the eel was swimming inside, and also breaking the boxes with the Bandicoots after being told of the grey Gem being unlockable by Coco back in the boulder level. As well as what Brio plans to do with the Gems.

And she admits, she has no love for Brio, but she knew that Cortex is hardly better than whom she describes as the 'Frankenstein bolt brain.' In fact, if what Coco said is true, then Cortex is the worse of the two evils that shouldn't gain victory. And she reluctantly agreed that Brio should be the victor of this journey for now.

So, she's joining in on getting the Gems too, if so Earth will be saved from Cortex's plan. If he ever has one for Earth that is.

They treaded through the sewer pipes, while avoiding the deep puddles of water that has eels in them so none of them will get shocked like Crash did. Until they came across the fork in the road in the sewer pipes, where the path on the right has the room that is full of glowing Green Nitro boxes.

After a moment of deciding, they decided to have Crash and Isabella going to the right, while Coco and Tawna goes left. And they hope to meet up with each other whether at the other end of the paths should they unite, or should either path has a dead end, forcing them to backtrack to the fork and then follow them there.

With Crash and Isabella, they gingerly avoided the Nitro Crates on Isabella's warning to Crash that the Nitro's are like TNT crates that explodes when touched. Only the Nitro's instantly explodes, and they should avoid them like Fire.

Which Crash believed her on, since he remembers seeing the Nitro's before, and was warned by Aku Aku on why they should all avoid them. And he usually listens to Aku Aku since he was of good help in helping him save Tawna.

After that, they got to the sewer pipe that had some more dangers for them to avoid. But they were prepared for that as they braced themselves for what the pipe would throw at them as they continued onwards. Where they had to face off against some armored rats that could only be beaten by getting jumped on. Which Crash learned the hard way about as he hurt his hand, but was saved when Isabella hopped on the rat to kill it.

"You're welcome Crash." Isabella said, smirking at him.

"Dank ya." Crash gibbered out, blowing on his hand to nurse it. Before he then repeated what she did, and jumped on the rats to defeat them, before proceeding onwards.

Where they had to avoid rooms full of water that had eels inside of it that threatened to shock them if they were in the water. While they also had to avoid the Nitro Crates that floated in the water, and loitered the rooms in the sewers. As well as the heavy radioactive barrels that threatened to flatten them, and some hostile brush bots that threatened to kill them even though they were trying to clean the sewer pipes too.

Until they came across the room after the pipe, that had a green gem in their path. "Ooooh! That looks belissima! (Beautiful!)" Isabella said, loving how the Gem looks. Before snatching it into her arms. Then she thought about herself wearing the Gem as it adorns her bikini, while she poses for Crash in the bikini. (While Tawna looks on in envy from the backround.)

Her thoughts were put on hold however, when the doors end up closing on both sides, one of which had Coco and Tawna trying to rush to it when it closed, like they knew that a trap was being sprung for them.

And they were right, as the same strong mutant Bandicoot from last time, ended up dropping down from above the door where Tawna and Coco was. And she was more pissed and determined to fight the Bandicoots. Much to Crash and Isabella's horror.

Especially Isabella, who instantly knew who the mutant was. "Wait! Don't do this Ami!" She said, much to Crash's surprise as he didn't know that Isabella knew this mutant. As well as not knowing that this mutant was Ami.

Ami merely growled at them in return, before she started to charge ahead at them, trying to crush them under her hands. But they dodged the strikes since they were flexible.

Isabella knew that it'd be pointless for her to get through to Ami, so she knew she has to get the helmet off of her head first.

"Okay Crash! We must get that helmet off her! And quickly, or she might crush us!" Isabella said.

Crash nodded in return before they both had to quickly how to get the helmet off. While Ami continued to aggressively pursue the Bandicoots as Tawna and Coco banged on the door, trying to get in. "We're coming big brother! Hang in there!" Coco's voice sounded.

"Hold on Crashie! This door will go down! Hopefully soon!" Tawna said, determined to fight alongside Crash.

It took some dodging from both Crash and Isabella, which had some close calls. As well as grazing of Ami's claws on both Isabella and Crash, giving them some scratches on them. But they both ignored the pain as they just had to think up a plan to take off the helmet, as well see if Tawna and Coco can enter the room to help them.

There was some attempts, like when Isabella did some slaps and bunny jabs on Ami, trying to snap her out of her mind control for at least a moment, so she can get her helmet off. But that didn't work well as it made her angrier as she backhanded Isabella in return, sending her flying back. But Crash saved her by catching her in midair before she could hit the wall. Earning her thanks in return.

Also, Crash did some deflecting spins when Ami tried to throw some stuff at them, like pipes, or some barrels, causing him to deflect her projectiles back at her in hopes that he can hit her helmet and make it break like with Isabella's helmet.

The strong mutant merely used her arms to guard against the deflected items before they could hit her in the face, no matter how fast as they could be from Crash's spins.

The mutant also was pretty fast on her feet despite her muscular looks, as she was able to keep up with them regardless of their attempts to put some distance between them and the mutant. But the mutant still couldn't catch them in her hands as they both kept on jumping away, and dodging her strikes.

She even did some shockwaves in the room to stun them for her opening. Which only slightly worked as she stunned Crash, but Isabella kept her at bay for Crash to recover, putting her at square one, much to her frustration. But she didn't give up, as she kept up the pressure, believing that they could get tired before too long.

Thankfully for them, Crash then decided to do some spinning to get onto the mutant's head when she cornered Isabella on the ground, and get the helmet off. Which he barely succeeded at, as he got thrown across the room by the mutant after he got caught in her hands, landing with a splat on the wall. But he got the helmet off of her when he kept his grip on it when he got thrown, and he kept a hold of it in his hands throughout his flight.

And that caused Ami to show her un-helmeted face, showing her blank white eyes, before grunting and roaring at the sky in pain and defeat before she started to shrink down to around Isabella's size while her roaring got quieter. She was turning back to normal, and Isabella was relieved at that.

But first, she had to make sure that Crash is alright. So she ran to Crash's side as the doors opened up thanks to Coco's hacking on her laptop. Now they ran in to see the now unmutated Bandicoot on the ground as Isabella helped Crash to his feet. That was when he showed them the helmet that he got off of Ami. "Ba da baaaaaa!" He gibbered out with a spin.

Isabella sighed in relief, feeling proud of Crash for having been quick enough to grab the helmet, and strong enough to keep it in his hands during his flight. "That was great thinking Crash, now my friend is free. Grazie. (Thanks.)" She said, planting a kiss on Crash's snout, much to Tawna's slight envy.

Then they all payed attention to Ami, who was now rising back up from her stunned state as she held her head like she had a migraine. "Ooh geez, the drinks were fun, but now I'm paying for it." Ami said, snarking at her headache, while she also spoke in the accent that Coco and Tawna uses when they speak. Then she looked around at her surroundings. "Huh? This isn't a rock stage?"

Isabella proceeded to run to Ami in joy. "Ami! Do you hear me now?" She asked.

Ami turned to Isabella in wonder, before getting surprised at the sight. "Bells? Is that you, is it really you?" She asked, using her nickname for Isabella.

"Yes. It is me, I'm so glad you're-" She tried to say, only to get lifted in the air, and bear hugged by Ami in return, causing her to grunt.

"Hahaha! It is you! Holy crap girl, I was hoping that you were alive when we were forced to wear those helmets. Thank goodness I was right." She said.

"Thank g-goodness indeed." She said, grunting at the strong squeezing force of Ami's hug.

Ami then proceeded to put down Isabella before patting her on the shoulder. "And it's also nice to see you without those helmets on us. How did you get it off by the way?"

"It broke off. And it's thanks to them." Isabella said, gesturing to the other Bandicoots. "They got me out of mine, and one of them helped me with yours."

Ami then proceeded to look at the Bandicoots in curiosity, before she then saw that they were also Bandicoots, and potential friends of Isabella's. "Well, any friend of Isabella's is a friend of mine. Who're you guys?"

"I'm Coco. This is my big brother Crash. And this is Tawna, his girlfriend."

"Nice to meet you. Ami is it?" She said, shaking Ami's hand. While noting how strong her grip was.

"That's me. Ami. And I see that you've met and befriended bells?" She asked, referring to Isabella.

"Yep. She told us about you, as well as the other Bandicoots that are still controlled by Brio. We're helping her free them from their helmets." Tawna said. Before she then explained to Ami about why they're here, as well as their journey that they're on which involved Brio and Cortex.

"So, what you're saying is, that you're here to collect the Gems, and the Crystals for a pair of mad scientists to save the world, yet one of them is trying to take over the world while the other is trying to save it? And yet you're all trying to save us too? Well, I can see that you've got me and Isabella, which leaves… Megumi-chan, and Liz as the last ones! Well, which one is the villain?" Ami asked.

"Beats me. Cortex seems to be turning a new leaf, and yet so is Brio, but Brio tried to kill us with his minions. And I don't think he's giving up yet, even though he's probably still thanking us for the Gems." Tawna said.

"But I just know that Cortex isn't a good guy either. He has a bad plan for Earth, and I'm certain that he's gonna stab us in the back once we give him the Crystals." Coco then said. "Which is why we must continue getting the Gems too. Brio might have his moments, but he isn't a villain right now. He's just desperately trying to stop us."

"And failing." Isabella said deadpan. "But I'm certain that Coco's right. Earth is in danger, and I'm willing to help them save it from that 'force', or from Cortex's betrayal."

"Well, since you're helping them, mind if I tag along? After all, the more the merrier, right?" Ami said, wanting to help them save the world alongside Isabella.

"Considering that you're a friend of ours, of course. Welcome to the team, Ami." Tawna said, holding out her hand.

"Heck yeah! Thanks for the invitation guys! With me on your team, neither of those doctors stand a chance! And hopefully we're gonna be meeting Liz and Megumi-chan later on!" Ami said, giving Tawna an arm wrestle handshake.

"You're welcome Ami. Now, let's move guys, we're not far from the exit now. And I already have the Crystal in my pocket. So don't worry about where it is." Tawna said.

The Bandicoot gang didn't need to be told twice. As they ran forward through the sewer, avoiding the hazards through the sewer pipes and the rooms until they got to the end of the level. Where they got the Grey Gem, then stepped on the teleportation podium where they then vanished back to the Warp room with their new friend by their side.

Their adventure, was gonna get interesting from here on out.

Chapter Text

The gang ended up back in the Warp Room, with a new Bandicoot named Ami as their new member and friend. Now they all looked around as they saw that they had all the Crystals and the Gems on the walls, including the Green Gem that Isabella had in her hands, much to her dismay.

"Ah phooey. I wanted to keep that pretty Gemma (Gem) in my hands." Isabella said disappointed.

"Welcome to the party, girl." Tawna also said, remembering having lost the blue gem, (Which was their first Gem that they got.) after getting it.

Nevertheless, they were proud of their accomplishments, as Crash and Coco decided to do the 'Crash dance' together in celebration. Which had Tawna, Isabella, and Ami feeling amused at the sight, while Aku Aku smiled warmly at them, as they all thought that the dance was adorable looking. Especially when both Crash and Coco does it together.

Then the room grew dark again, showing that Cortex was about to speak to them again. Which he did when his head's hologram appeared again.

"Ten of Twenty-five Crystals. Your all on your-" He said until he saw Isabella and Ami. "Oh my! Is it really you gals?! I thought that you all perished when our old fortress was destroyed in the flames! Thank goodness it was just my imagination!" He said, feeling relieved that they were alright.

"Nice to see that you're concerned for us?" Ami said, with both Bandicoots not expecting Cortex to feel caring for them. "But nevertheless, it was all thanks to N. Brio. Whom later on, gave us helmets to try to impede you. Only for both of us to fail."

"Hmph. Typical Brio." Cortex said annoyed for obvious reasons. "But nevertheless, I'm glad to see that you're both alright, and free from his control. I hope the same could be said for the other two."

"They're probably fine, and I know we might see them again soon." Isabella said. "But we shall ensure, that none of us will be his 'animali domestici' (pets) again." She whispered to Ami, who agreed with her, since they have no love for Cortex either. Instead, they want to be free from their control.

And they hoped that they shall, if they continue following the Bandicoot Trio that freed them.

That was when Cortex also noticed another unusual character that was by Crash's side, being Polar. "Hello. Who is this?" He softly asked at seeing Polar, who was slightly cowering behind Crash. Almost as if it could smell the evil on the sight of Cortex.

"That is Polar. It's our pet Polar bear cub. He's been of good help to us in one of the snow paths. Weren't you Polar, yes you are, yes you are." Tawna said, petting Polar behind the ears, much to his delight as he felt himself calming down.

"How adorable. Now back to business. I need to conserve my hologram's energy here, so communications between us has to stop for now. Just remember that you can use the Platform in the center of this room to get to the next room. Although you all can get intercepted on the way there. So brace yourselves for an ambush. And remember, I'm counting on you." He then said before his hologram vanished, signaling his call to them ending.

"So, that platform in the middle of this room sends us up to the next Warp Room?" Ami asked.

"Mm-hmm. Not only that, but there's also a basement room that I stumbled upon around the time we freed Isabella. I suppose it's for the secret Gems that we could gain." Tawna responded.

"Basement? So that's where you've been when you vanished on that square that you bounced on the boxes towards?" Coco asked, getting a nod from Tawna. "Well that's good to know, since that way, we can grab every gem in this room and in that secret room for N Brio. Which would mean we can save this world from Cortex."

"That is, once he betrays us." Tawna said. "But we'll cross that bridge when we come to it. Right now, let's get to the next room."

The gang didn't need to be told twice. As they all huddled on the platform in the center, with Polar getting carried by Crash, before it then floated upwards to the hole in the ceiling. Then a flash took up all of their vision as they got teleported from the platform.

When the white flash faded from their vision, they ended up looking around, and found themselves in what could be like a set of a gangster movie that Pinstripe seems to enjoy watching. (Which Tawna views as an influence on Pinstripe's gangster look.)

Except that, the set that they were on was in a warehouse, and they were standing in what looked like a room had plenty of golden coins and other treasures that had almost all of the Bandicoots, (Minus Crash. And Aku Aku.) starting to look on in smiling glee at how much treasure that was around them. With Isabella even imagining herself in such a room of treasures as she sat on the throne like a sultan. Complete with Knights Ami, Megumi, and Liz protecting her, Jester Coco and Tawna making her laugh and entertaining her, Aku Aku singing to her, and male belly dancing Crash entertaining her in a different way that had her lusting for him.

They could've continued to gawk at the treasure trove, until they ended up hearing some chattering and fast talking that was from above them. Which had them looking up in curiosity at what or who was making all that noise.

Only to see what looked like a hanging Arabian cage above them, which held a thin panda girl inside. Who has black and white fur, with her face having white fur, eyelashes and pink lipstick, as well as pink fainter blushes on her cheeks, pink skin on her black ears, white colors on her palms, green eye colors, and raven black hair that was braided into a ponytail that trailed to her waist. She wore a green cheongsam with red stitching that had a faint white tree pattern on it, with a red sash wrapped around her waist along with red puffy pants, and red and green shoes. She also had a white flower in her hair on the back of her head.

And she was basically running and jumping all over the cage's interior like a beehive, not standing still for at least five seconds as she tried to break out of the cage bars. And she wasn't being quiet as she yelled out plenty of words a minute, for someone to save her.

"HEYLEMMIEOUTYOUCAN'TDOTHISTOME, IDIDN'TDOANYTHINGWRONGTODESERVETHIS! IJUSTWANTEDSOMEBABOOFROMMYHOMEINCHINASOICOULDGOSWORDFIGHTING!" She yelled out as she jumped in the cage. She seemed to be full of energy, to where she could give Coco a run for her money at her most energetic.

The Bandicoot gang was staring at her in confusion, wondering why a panda was in an Arabian cage that was hanging over a room, when she ended up focusing on them. "Oh? HELLO! Say, can any of you let me out? I would be willing to kiss one of you if you do!" She loudly said, looking at Crash.

Whom was staring confused at her initially, "Huh?" he said. Before Tawna then got to his left. "Sorry miss panda! But he's taken already!" Tawna responded to her.

The panda girl ended up facepalming. "Uugh. And I was desperate to kiss somebody who would be willing to rescue me." She groaned out.

"But you want to be set free? You got it!" Tawna then said, with the gang in agreement.

That had the panda girl excited again. "You'll set me free?! YIPPEE!" She yelled out again, feeling excited to exit the cage as she jumped around again.

The gang decided to search around the room for a key to the cage that the panda girl was trapped in, as they searched in the gold coin pile for the key that could go to the cage. "OOH! I forgot! My name is Yaya by the way! Yaya Panda! And it's nice to be saved!" The panda girl known as Yaya said.

"And it's nice to save you, miss Yaya!" Coco said, quickly taking a liking to Yaya, as she searched the gold piles for the key to Yaya's cage.

"I'd save the time for searching for later I'm afraid! The guys that trapped me in here has the key!" Yaya said. Which was a relief for the gang since it narrows their search down.

Even though they knew that they have to fight the ones that trapped her in the cage. Which they felt, are the ones that they must face off against like when both Tawna and Crash fought Ripper Roo.

"Who are the guys that trapped you?" Ami asked.

"Dat would be us." A new voice said as the curtains opened. Revealing a familiar face, and two new faces.

The familiar face happened to be whom Tawna wished she wouldn't meet again. He was a Potoroo that had brown fur and a pointed snout, jet black hair that was slicked backwards, and he happened to look like a gangster with the pinstripe suit, and holding his Tommy gun with a barrel drum clip. Except, he happened to be a bit more muscular than last time. It was none other than Pinstripe himself.

And by his sides, were a pair of anthropomorphic lizards, whom have green scales that could be seen on their faces and their hands that wields a pair of Scimitar swords. Both of them also have yellow sclera's and blue irises, but that's where the similarities end. One of them was slimmer, with a longer snout and wider cheeks, while the other one was more muscular yet fatter, and he has a square jaw with a little curly beard on it, and a flatter snout. And they are wearing white Arabic-like robes, with violet trench coat-like cloaks that trailed to their feet, and they wore small golden helmets with one spike on them, and dark purple cloths that covered the sides and backs of their heads.

And the lizards were pretty acrobatic, as they jumped and flipped around before landing in front of Pinstripe before jumping to his sides.

"Well, well, well. I neva thought we'd be he'ya again, Tawna. And look at dat, you'se still wit dat doity Bandicoot? I expected dat you'd break up with him." Pinstripe said, still using his gangster accent as he stared flirtingly at her, as well as annoyed at Crash.

Whom stared back at him with a mean glare alongside Aku Aku, since he was also annoyed at the fact that he's seeing Pinstripe again. He also kept himself close to Tawna, as she also kept herself closer to him.

"Well, are you disappointed yet? Because I'm not gonna even think about leaving him. Not even for you." Tawna said annoyed, much to Pinstripe's dismay, and Crash's joy.

"You know him?" Ami asked, with Isabella also curious. After all, neither of them ever met Tawna, or Crash, and Coco, or the Potoroo. Since they were in a different section of the fortress that Brio saved them in when it caught fire.

"Unfortunately." Tawna said deadpan. "And his name, is Pinstripe. He used to be part of the group that Cortex and Brio created from his mutation experiments. And now, well..."

"Da Bandicoot boyfriend of yours, beat the tar outta me, and left me to die in dat reactor room for you. Thankfully, I lived and found myself a business in Chicago with a city-wide Sanitation Company. Even though, It doubles as a casino." He said grinning as he gave his Tommy gun a spit shine. "And I was gonna run a Gubernatorial campaign when Brio gave me an offer, that I just couldn't refuse, since it involved both of ya's."

Tawna was not surprised, nor was she thrilled at the fact that Pinstripe of all people, has been hired by Brio as well. She did hope when Brio met them again on her first journey with Crash, that he'd forget to hire Pinstripe, or would have the decency to not get on her bad side by hiring him. But the sight in front of her, dashed her hopes.

Aku Aku was also disappointed, as he too wasn't fond of Pinstripe due to his fight against Crash, and his boasting about how he'll have Tawna by his side. And yet, Tawna is still with Crash, much to his relief since Crash went through a lot to save her.

"But I can see that a pair of lovely ladies is also wit Tawna. It seems like it's my lucky day." He said grinning at both Isabella and Ami. "It's a great pleasure to meet both of you'se. I'm Pinstripe."

"Charmed." Both female Bandicoots said, with Ami merely glaring back at him as she spoke sarcastically, and deadpan, while Isabella felt a bit charmed by his Gangster look. After all, he looked like a Sicilian gangster, and they are from Italy according to the word on the street. (At least in the more southern parts.) And he looked handsome and cute in her eyes, especially with that slicked hair, and the outfit.

"Who are those guys though? And what's their story?" Coco asked.

That was when the Lizards ended up smiling at the Bandicoots. "Why we are the Komodo Brothersss." The thin one said. "Call me Joe, and thissss is my brother, Moe."

"We are Ronin. Sssssamurai's without Massstersss." The muscular one known as Moe said.

"Which is odd, since they don't look like ronin, they look more like Arabian Sword masters, than Ronin." Coco whispered to Tawna, Isabella, and Ami. Whom all agreed, but it could be an honor thing being the reason for all they care.

"We were created by some ssssscientistsssss, and we were casted out of the fortressss, before we were given ssssome combat lessssonssss, from a sssssword masssster. Now we follow no one. Just ourselves." Joe then said.

"Then what are you guys doing with that guy? Even though I'm guessing that it's cause he's paying you?" Ami asked.

"You're half right." Moe said.

"He'ssss paying ussss plenty, in becoming his guardssss. As well as his officerssss. But we were hired by Brio to protect him." Joe said.

"And why is the panda up there? Did she do something wrong?" Isabella tried to ask.

"Let'sss jussst ssssay, she sssstole some trade goodssss from our bossss." Joe said.

"OFCOURSENOT! IJUSTWANTEDMYBAMBOOSTICKS!" Yaya responded. Before taking a calming breath to rephrase herself a bit. "Ahem! What I mean is, I wanted my bamboo sticks for practicing some sword fighting with! I didn't know it belonged to that Al Capone wannabe!"

The last part had the gang chuckling at the last part, which they felt was an accurate description of Pinstripe. Even the Komodo Bros, who works for Pinstripe, couldn't keep a straight face. Much to his chagrin.

"You do know, dat there is nothing stopping me from turning youse inta swiss cheese, with dis friend of mine, don't ya?" He said angrily at Yaya, as he pointed his tommy gun at her.

"Ooh, dat supposed to scare me?!" She responded while using Pinstripe's accent to mock him. "If I was out of this cage, you'd be the one dancing, if you know what I mean!"

The Bandicoot gang couldn't hold it in as they laughed at the last part, having got it, and finding it as a funny joke that Yaya made to Pinstripe, who was simmering with anger as even the Komodo Bros were chuckling at that too.

Even though Pinstripe could've ended it with some firing in the air, he decided to be polite just this once, and let them finish their laughter-

Never mind, he just fired at the ceiling in the air, which startled some of the gang out of their laughter, even though there was at least two still chuckling at that, the two, being Coco and Crash.

After they were done, Pinstripe ended up reloading his Tommy gun again, before pointing it at the gang. "Let's cut to da chase now! I'm ordered to eliminate you all should you continue to gather Crystals, but I could be persuaded to change my mind, if you could-"

"NO! And don't even try that gangster's charm in the movies, because my answer will never change!" Tawna said, seeing his question coming from a mile away.

"Aw come on Tawna! I've got riches, a mansion, and even some limos for dating with! And yet you choose him?"

"Yes. And I'm staying by his side, because he has something that you don't!" She said, before wrapping her arms around Crash's chest, while gesturing to his center above his abdominals. "This! He has a heart! And he's shown it to me, by going through everything for me, regardless of what you, and the other mutants in Cortex and Brio's army, threw at him. All for me, and my safety!" She said before pecking him on his cheek. "And in my eyes, that's all I want for my man, and no amounts of good looks, and muscles will change that. So don't you even dare expect me to eventually say yes, no matter how many times you beg. Because I'll still remain with my Crashie no matter what!"

And like that, Crash was reminded of why he loves her. He saved her from Cortex, and because of that, she refuses to leave Crash's side due to her own love for him. Her love for Crash, is so strong, that not even the handsome Gangster like Pinstripe could hope to win her heart because of that, no matter how hard he tries. And that is something about Tawna that Crash loves so much, other than her sexy looks.

Coco on the other hand, was quite proud of her for that too. As she loves her brother like a sister would, and she would be quite upset if someone hurts his feelings. And she always hoped that Tawna would not leave Crash's side for anybody like Pinstripe, which always makes her happy when her hopes get answered. It's no wonder she thought of Tawna as like a sister to her.

Both Isabella and Ami was pleasantly surprised that she chose to remain with Crash. Even if Isabella inwardly hoped that she'll hook up with Pinstripe, she was still proud of her for remaining by Crash's side.

Especially since Isabella noticed the glare that Ami was giving him earlier, like she didn't trust or like Pinstripe herself. Which is a sign that there's some bad traits that Ami notices about Pinstripe that she should look out for. And since she trusts Ami, the glare is warning her that he's no good for her, which was why she didn't feel as attracted to him as any other female would. Especially since she felt that Pinstripe would merely view herself and Tawna as merely trophy wives, which is why he's not her type. Even though a part of her hoped that he could change his tune if they ever meet again so that they might hook up themselves.

Not to mention, Aku Aku was smiling warmly at Tawna for remaining with Crash, and not hooking up with whom he describes as 'the psychopathic animal with the rapid firing weapon' that tried to kill Crash and himself. (With zero success on the latter due to his mojo magic blocking the bullets.) "I'm so proud of you Tawna." he thought.

All while Pinstripe was both seething with anger, and sulking in defeat. Feeling that Tawna's right, that there's nothing he can do to win her over to himself.

"Have it ya way then. I'll just take the other blonde gal… who is named… what's ya name?"

"Isabella. Salve. (Hello.)"

"Ooh, an Italian? That's a good accent. Makes ya look attractive with it." Pinstripe said, starting to have some love for her.

"Grazie? (Thank you?)" Isabella said, feeling flattered at his flirting, yet confused at how she's the one that he's flirting with now that he knows, that Tawna won't return his feelings.

"Say, once dis is done, we should go to a countryside in Chicago, look at the view of the ocean. As well as da flowers." Pinstripe said.

"Sorry Pinstripe, but there's something about you that makes me feel that you're not my type of man. I hope you understand." She responded, much to Pinstripe's dismay.

Now Tawna, Aku Aku, and Coco were the ones surprised. Since the former did think that Isabella would say yes to Pinstripe's advance towards her. "Guess I was wrong on that part. But I understand and respect why she would reject him too." Tawna thought.

All while Ami was merely smiling at Isabella for that, since she did think that Pinstripe would be a sleazeball. And she was glad that Isabella could see that too.

Pinstripe couldn't stop the sigh that was in his breath as he looked down at the floor, before he then readied his gun again. "So be it den! I've been ordered to eliminate you all, and I can't just leave Brio disappointed. So, it seems that you're ending you're journey here, and giving us your Crystals, or your lives."

Even though they felt that they might end up getting shot and killed by Pinstripe's Tommy gun, they didn't back down, instead, they braced themselves for what could be another battle. Then they noticed that the movie set wall behind them, was made of metal that could be hard enough to cover them from Pinstripe's bullets. They all decided to hide behind the wall when Pinstripe shoots.

On Tawna's mark, they quickly dashed behind the wall before Pinstripe was ready to shoot his Tommy gun, causing him to shoot in a fan pattern as they retreated behind the wall, in hopes that he'll hit them all regardless his lack of accuracy, even though they're behind the wall that was able to protect them. (Aku Aku still had magic to protect him, but he too retreated behind the wall with the Bandicoots.)

Even though his bullets still grazed some of the gang that barely got behind the wall, with Tawna and Crash feeling at least three of them grazing their abs and their arms, and Coco feeling three grazing her back as she carried Polar to safety. They all cringed in pain of the grazing marks, but they knew that there's bigger problems to deal with. Like how to defeat Pinstripe, and how to defeat the Komodo Bros.

"What'll we do?!" Isabella asked through the gunfire.

"Give me a minute! I'll think of something!" Tawna responded, making up a plan to defeat Pinstripe and the Komodo Bros.

Pinstripe ended up losing his entire clip of ammo on his Tommy gun, which forced him to stop firing to reload. "Sic em! And bring me dat stupid one's head!" Pinstripe said, referring to Crash.

"Assss you wissssh, Pinsssstripe." Joe said as he and Moe proceeded to dash to the wall, preparing to ambush the gang while Pinstripe .

That was when Tawna had a plan for the Komodo Bros. "Ami, Crash, can you both fight on equal footing with the Komodo Bros? And Coco, can you get a trap ready?" Tawna asked.

"Trap? For what?" She asked.

Tawna proceeded to point at the hanging cage that Yaya was still inside. "I need to get Pinstripe under it, And I think I know what to do once the Komodo Bros are beat." She said before whispering to her about what she's planning. Which had Coco smiling at how well it could be pulled off, even though she also cringed at how he'll take it.

"O-okay. Let's do it." Coco said.

"Good. Now Ami, Coco, Isabella, Crash, take down those Komodo guys." Tawna commanded.

"Got it!" Ami said as Crash also saluted Tawna. Before they then proceeded to jump out quick enough to do battle with the Komodo Bros. While Tawna protected Polar.

The Komodo Bros was caught off guard by their fighting to where they couldn't ambush them, but it was not enough as they used their acrobatics to dodge both Ami's punches, and Crash's spinning move.

Ami and Crash was forced to continue their fight as they changed their moves to her using some Karate that she remembers learning from Megumi, to keep Moe at bay, while Crash switched to a fisticuff combat stance to fight Joe.

Despite the Komodo Bro's skills in using a sword, Ami and Crash was able to fight them on pretty even ground since they were fast enough to dodge their sword swipes. Which wasn't too hard to see coming since they were using scimitar swords.

Which, compared to katana swords, they were a bit larger in mass (For scimitars anyway.) to where they were easier to see coming, and they also seemed weighty to where they were a little bit slow in making another swing after finishing their previous swing, taking into account of twisting their wrists to have the sharp side facing the Bandicoots. Which both Ami and Crash took advantage of as they counterattacked them with some punches after dodging their swings a few times.

That's not to say, that they were able to gain an upper hand, since the Komodo Bro's showed them that their skills in swords is not an exaggeration, as they kept the fight from turning in the Bandicoots favor due to their acrobatics. And they were able to land some cuts on Crash and Ami when they tried to dodge their sword strikes. But their improvising efforts kept the fight from turning in the Komodo Bro's favor.

Which was why, after they both suffered a right hook from both Ami and Crash, the Komodo Bros had to change their combat tactic. So they jumped over to the center of the stage of the movie set, before Joe ended up crossing his arms to where he turned his hands to have the blades facing away from his chest. "Let'ssss get them brother! Like we rehearssssed!" He said.

Moe then grabbed his top torso with a sash, then with a mighty pull, used the sash to have Komodo Joe spinning around like a tornado as he slid around the circular arena, while Pinstripe was merely standing back and watching the fireworks, hoping that it'd end the way that he expects if their skills are as good as they claimed.

Which caused Ami, Coco, Isabella, and Crash to run and jump their way through avoiding the spinning Komodo Joe as he tried to slice them to bits with his scimitar swords as he spun around. They even saved each other by pulling each other out of the way when Komodo Joe was about to slice them to ribbons. Which happened a few times with Crash saving Ami, Coco, and Isabella, while Coco saved Crash just as often alongside Isabella and Ami, and while Ami kept on saving Coco and Isabella as well, and while Aku Aku kept them all in balance with his levitation magic too, not wanting to see them getting diced. They shown themselves as quite a team against Joe and Moe. And Isabella just met the Bandicoots just hours ago. (While Ami just met them minutes ago.)

All while Yaya Panda was still yelling around, only now, she was warning them of the attacks coming. And she was cheering for them to win. Which was a slight help for them.

And while the Bandicoots was also trying not to collide with each other, which could end in them getting diced up if they weren't careful, and lucky.

Thankfully, they were both, as Joe eventually slowed down in his spinning before having to sit down to recover from his dizziness of spinning around. Which gave them a chance to strike back against Joe, with both Crash and Coco using their spin attack to send Joe sliding on the floor, before getting slammed into Moe. Causing them to fall to the floor in tangled limbs.

After getting untangled, the Komodo Bros decided on another attack that involved spinning. Only this time, while Moe was the one spinning, Joe took out some scimitars, and threw them around, attempting to impale the Bandicoot gang with his throwing scimitars.

Which slightly succeeded, as both Ami and Coco ended up getting cuts on their arms as the swords grazed them, with Tawna and Crash glaring at the Komodo Bros as both of them hates it when their friends gets hurt. Especially if it's Crash's little sis with the laptop. But before Coco or Isabella could get revenge on them by taking their scimitars, they vanished into thin air before Joe threw another one, which she had to dodge as she had to contend with a spinning Moe.

Fortunately, Crash protected her from Moe's spinning attack with his own spinning, redirecting Moe back into Joe as he crashed into him this time, sending them falling in a mess of tangled limbs again. Even though he also suffered some cuts on his torso, but to him, the cuts were worth saving his sister.

Coco felt relieved before she then hugged Crash for his rescue. "Whew. Thank you for the save big brother." She said before playfully kissing him on his cheek. Before they both focused on the Komodo Bros.

Whom were charging back at them with their swords again, putting Crash and Coco on the defensive. And they could've been overwhelmed with the combo, had they not decided to obey some code of the samurai, and arm both Coco and Crash with their other scimitar swords, to get a proper fight out of both Bandicoots.

Even though Both Ami and Isabella ended up intervening too with some golden scimitars in their hands that they found in the gold pile. Which put the Komodo Bros in an even fight.

Especially with Crash taking the other scimitar from Coco, arming himself with two, since she wasn't good at sword combat. Although, neither is Crash, but he's better than her at defending himself if given a melee weapon.

Even though, with the Komodo Bros in direct combat, it wasn't easy as the armed Bandicoots had to parry each of the sword blows with their own scimitar swords. Which they felt, was more fragile and likely to break compared to the steel swords that the Komodo Bros were using against them.

But they held their own against the Komodo Bros, and that's considering their skills in swords compared to the Komodo Bros, even though they were merely even in the combat circle.

At least, until Crash and Ami ended up disarming the Komodo Bros of one of their swords, leaving them with one sword to work with in defending themselves. Which they did a good job at since they were still quite good at fighting with swords, even to where they gave Ami and Crash some cuts, and even gave Isabella some cuts as well

Unfortunately for the Bandicoots, upon eventually disarming them of their other sword, their gold ones ended up breaking too. Which made them useless since they had no sharp ends to fight with on what's left of the swords. And Crash accidentally fumbled and dropped the pair of his steel swords as well.

Which gave the Komodo Bros enough time to be changing their tactic again, to where they were ready to dice the Gang with their next move, where they stood on top of each other, making a tower after pulling out another pair of scimitars, before spinning again to dice up the Bandicoot gang.

Ami had a little plan for that though, as she proceeded to pick up Crash by his wrists, (With his permission by the way.) as she had a baseball player-like focus on the tornado attack that the Komodo bros were doing to where she could imagine the baseball music that plays whenever someone was up to bat, and about to swing.

Which is what she did with Crash, as she swung him with all her might at the Komodo Bro on the bottom, while Crash had his feet forward like some swinging superhero, which sent him flying along with the one on top, all while Crash didn't even suffer a cut from the scimitars since they faced away from him when he hit them. Now they were sent backwards as they screamed in fear as they were sent spinning around the room like a pinball.

Until finally, they fell to the ground unconscious, making the Bandicoot gang the winner, and making Pinstripe as their only obstacle in freeing Yaya Panda and getting back to the Warp Room.

Speaking of whom, he ended up pointing his Tommy gun at the gang when they stood victorious. Now they were raising their hands up as he kept his gun pointed at them.

"I must admit, you all have some skills, or da Komodo Bros had a poor training regimen in being ronin." Pinstripe said, disappointed at the Komodo bro's failures.

Which is regardless of how much of a good job that they did, as they had the Bandicoots on the ropes in some sections of the battle.

Little did he know, Tawna was putting her plan into motion as she did some preparations while telling Polar to stay at a safe distance. And Isabella was taking part in it when she snuck off to Tawna.

"But nevertheless, orders are orders. And I can't just disobey Brio. So either stop here, or i'mma turn all of youse into swiss cheese. And don't make any sudden movements-"

"And miss all the fun we could have?" Tawna's voice asked behind him, in a husky tone. Which quickly got his attention as he turned around.

Where he saw Tawna seductively grinning at him, while she had her short's pant legs rolled up to show more of her legs. All while she was swaying her hips a bit while looking at him through her bang. As was Isabella too, as she was also swaying her hips too. While showing her cleavage, and rolling up her pant legs to show her shins, and she also looked at him through her bangs too.

They looked like they took a sudden interest in Pinstripe, and is showing him their sexiness. Much to the shock of the rest of the gang. Especially Crash as he was confused and shocked that Pinstripe was somehow able to attract them both. As well as terrified that it would mean he'd lose Tawna, despite what she said to Pinstripe before the battle began.

All while Polar merely looked on in confusion.

"After all, I admit, you are a carino, (cutie,) with that chiseled jaw, those muscles showing through your suit, and even that Pettinatura (Hairdo) caught my attention." Isabella said.

Pinstripe couldn't stop a blush that spread on his cheeks, as he smiled back at them. "Well, *hehe* I do keep it slicked back meself, since it attracts the ladies. Cortex said it'd make them go wild fuh me."

"Well, he told you right. It's driving us insane." Tawna sarcastically said, then she turned to Isabella. "Just like this Lizzie Borden character that I learned about." She whispered.

That got a chuckle out of Isabella.

That had Pinstripe starting to walk to them as he lowered his Tommy gun to the floor. While Crash was now terrified that Tawna might've turned to Pinstripe for love, despite what she said to him before the battle. It was almost like he had some sort of body spray scent that had both Tawna and Isabella attracted to him when they took a whiff, and Crash wanted some of that too if that was the case.

"Hey Crash!" Ami whispered to him when she felt that he'd be saddened. Causing him to turn to her, and see her pointing upwards at the cage that Yaya Panda was in. Which he suddenly noticed, was what Pinstripe was walking under.

Then he noticed his sister silently jogging to the chain holding the Cage up. Like she could be trying to get to it to untie it from the wall.

That sight in front of him, had what could be a single gear in Crash's head turning, as he started to piece what Coco was about to do and what Tawna and Isabella was doing to Pinstripe. And that was when it hit him, and after also some explaining from Aku Aku, and Ami, the latter of whom joined Coco in untying the chain, that he was calming down from his sad state.

Now he was joining Ami and Coco in untying the chain too, while hiding his smile, as he witnessed Pinstripe getting closer to both Isabella and Tawna as they were distracting him to their spot like they were planning as Yaya was wondering what they were doing. "Ooh I hope that it'll lead to a butt kicking for Pinstripe, because he really had a butt kicking coming! OOOH I CAN'T WAIT!" She thought excitedly.

Pinstripe was now under the cage as both Bandicoots were now close to him, about to hug him as they had their snouts close together. "I feel that we might be loving you." Tawna said huskily. Making Pinstripe believe that he's about to get a kiss from Tawna.

Which had him preparing to give his birdie to Crash, if he's able to catch his drift.

"There's just something we'd like to say first though." Isabella then said.

All while Coco was nearly done with the knot that held up the cage, now she just needed her cue to let the cage drop.

Which Yaya ended up noticing at the last minute, as she got nervous about that. She was prepared to ask Coco what she was gonna do, but Ami had her hushing before she could do that.

Yaya was about to ask why, when suddenly, "NOW!" was what she heard, before she heard Pinstripe making a yelp of pain, then next thing she knew, she felt the cage that she was inside going into free fall, as she also heard a girl screaming, before landing with a loud crash as she felt herself landing on her butt after the cage landed on the floor.

At that point, it made sense to her. Tawna and Isabella merely lured Pinstripe into standing under the cage, while Coco ended up untying the chain that held up the cage she was in, sending it plummeting down onto Pinstripe's head after Isabella and Tawna dove to safety. (But not before giving Pinstripe a little 'below the belt' attack to make sure.) And all he could do, was merely scream like a girl as he then got flattened.

"HAHAHAHAH! Good one! That was awesome!" Yaya yelled out at figuring out what just happened while she rolled in the cage laughing.

Now the Bandicoot gang was catching their breaths in the aftermath of the battle that just ended, as Yaya was laughing at what just happened. While Tawna and Isabella was taking relieving breaths at the close call of dodging the falling cage. While Crash, Ami, Aku Aku, and Coco was happy that Tawna's plan worked for Pinstripe.

"That's one way to defeat a gangster." Isabella said catching her breath.

"No kidding." Tawna then said

It was after they caught their breaths, that Tawna ended up seeing Crash jogging up to her before hugging her in his arms. Which had her feeling nervous about what to say.

"C-Crashie. I"m sorry-" She tried to say, only to get kissed by Crash in return.

"Dat oday. Yu wa jut twikin Pindripe." He gibbered, telling her that he knows that she was only trying to trick Pinstripe into going under the Cage.

Tawna was relieved to hear him say that. "Oh, thank goodness you understood." She responded, smiling at him as she kissed him back.

Which had Isabella feeling envious at seeing that, wishing that he would kiss her too.

Before they could celebrate though, they were reminded that Yaya panda was still inside the cage, and that they should let her out first. "Okay, Isabella, do you have the key?" Tawna asked.

"I thought you had it." Isabella said, having forgotten to grab the key to Yaya's cage out of Pinstripe's pockets.

"I thought you did." She responded, realizing that she didn't get the key out of Pinstripe's pockets either. "Don't worry Yaya, It'll take only a few-"

Before they could say another word, they saw Crash getting up before taking one of the scimitar swords out of one of the unconscious Komodo Bros, and then holding it backhanded before spinning at the lock with it in hand. Which gave it enough speed to slice the padlock's bar that held the door close.

Tawna had to admit, that was probably the smartest move that Crash has done, as Yaya ended up exiting out of the cage, now free.

And she was jumping around excitedly, happy to be free from her prison. "YIPPEE! I'MFREEATLASTTHANKYOUSOMUCHGUYS!" She yelled out excitedly, still speed talking as she hugged Crash and Tawna tightly. With the former dropping his sword.

"R-really, it's… no problem." She said, cringing at how strong Yaya was, despite her thin looks, and small height that was around Coco's. (Despite being a panda.)

"It's nice that you're free from that stronzo. (scumbag.)" Isabella said. "How does it feel to be free?"

"It feels better than being trapped in there! That's for sure!" She said, lowering her voice a bit since she was close to the gang. "That was awesome by the way, how you guys were able to stand up to those Ronin lizards! I thought that you'd be goners at some points!"

"We also thought that too. I guess we've gotten lucky throughout this journey." Isabella said. "Spero che la nostra fortuna resisterà entro la fine. (I hope our luck will hold out by the end.)" She then said in Italian.

"I hope so too." Ami said, understanding her Italian after her teaching during their time in Cortex's former fortress.

They ended up hearing some sudden stretching noises like someone was pulling themselves out from beneath something. Which caused them all to turn and see Pinstripe pulling himself out from under the cage with his tommy gun, before succeeding in getting out, and getting ready to aim as they looked back in shock.

"Ya tricked me! I have to say, I should've expected that from both of ya's. But now it's-" He tried to say, only to then focus on Yaya panda.

Who was steaming mad at him for caging her, and she was about to get some payback. Which had Pinstripe feeling scared when he realized that she was out of her cage, and all he could think about was only two words.

"Oh crap."

Which is when she dashed to Pinstripe before laying down a beatdown of her own on him, by rapidly kicking him in the face as she floated in the air for a few seconds. Before she then made a feigned kick like she was pointing a sword at Pinstripe like a knight was, only replace the sword with her foot. Then, she kicked him in the face some more with some expertly delivered kicks, and somehow, even having a third leg appearing out of nowhere to kick Pinstripe's face when he caught her double kick. (Which had him befuddled at how she did that for a brief moment before the kicking resumed.)

All while the Bandicoot gang stared in awe at how well Yaya panda can kick. She was sorta like a certain kung fu fighter from a certain tv show that takes place in texas that Coco liked to watch. Except replace the buff bearded action guy, with a panda girl that was around her size.

Soon, she finished off Pinstripe with a strong roundhouse kick that sent the Potoroo to the ground, now unconscious. "That was for my Kendo Bamboo sticks!" She said, satisfied for her revenge.

Then she walked merrily back to the Gang, happy that her revenge is over. That was when she and Coco saw each other. "Hello. I see that you're with them?"

"Why yes. Name's Coco by the way. This is my brother Crash, his girlfriend Tawna, and then there's Isabella the Italian Bandicoot, and Ami, both of whom we just met shortly before you." She said introducing the other Bandicoots. "And that is Polar. My brother and Tawna met him in a part of this world. That is a he right?" Coco asked, getting a nod from Crash and Tawna in return.

"That's nice. By the way, can I join you guys?! I don't know what else I can do now that I'm done with that guy." She then said.

They didn't hesitate when they said yes, considering how friendly Yaya panda seemed to be to them, now that she was out. "Of course you can. Welcome to the team Yaya." Tawna responded, giving her a handshake.

Which Yaya returned with energy, reminding Tawna of how energetic Yaya panda was.

And it was right around the time that the teleporter was activated, and it was now sending the whole gang back to the Platform on its way to the next Warp Room, with Yaya panda also getting teleported, since she was still touching Tawna.

By the time they were on the platform, they were now approaching the Warp Room, which now looked like they were in a chamber in a sewer, with plenty of pipes on the walls around the portals. Thankfully for Isabella and Tawna, they didn't smell any bad smells that could be in a sewer. And it looked like it had ankle deep fresh water in the room, so they felt that it was at least some improvement from the icy chamber of the Warp Room as it isn't cold in this chamber.

After they stepped off the platform, the room darkened once again, and Cortex's face appeared before them. And he was smiling in relief.

"Good show dear friends, the Komodo Brothers obviously lacked your mettle. And I see that you've gotten a new comrade." He said noticing Yaya.

"Names Yaya! Yaya Panda! And who're you?" She asked curiously.

"Cortex. Dr. Neo Cortex. I'm an evi- *Ahem* former evil scientist, and the one that helped begin this little journey that this little fellowship is going through, to atone for my mistakes. And it warms my icy blue heart, to see that this fellowship is starting to grow" He said smiling.

"But now's not the time to get cocky. There are still plenty of Crystals to gather, and it seems that Brio is not backing down from this fight. So make sure that none of you will too. And remember, the world is counting on you." He said before his Hologram vanished. Leaving them to their own devices as Aku Aku healed their cuts from the fight.

It seems, that their adventure was still ramping up, and it's gonna get bigger than Crash's previous one.

Chapter Text

With the mad scientist's hologram gone, the gang was left to their own devices as a newly recruited Yaya Panda looked around at the room for a bit, finding it better than remaining inside the cage that Pinstripe put her in, at the very least.

Then, after a few minutes of looking around, Yaya wondered what Tawna's history was with both Crash and Pinstripe. "So Tawna, sorry to ask, but what's your history with that Pinstripe guy, and why is it that you prefer him over that guy?" She proceeded to ask, gesturing to Crash.

"You know, I was wondering the same thing. What was that guy like?" Ami asked.

Tawna felt a bit reluctant to tell them about her times as Cortex's prisoner, as well as how Pinstripe became a thorn in her side due to his attempts to find love with her, despite her love for Crash.

But she feels, that it's better to tell them now, instead of later. "Let's just say that all three of us were cell mates" Tawna said, pointing to Crash and herself, while referring to Pinstripe. "And Pinstripe thought that I looked quite hot after my mutation. So he tried to make me his boyfriend. But he seemed like a jerk, and I was a nervous girl at the time due to our kidnapping by those evil scientists, one of them being Cortex, the guy who's hologram you saw minutes ago."

"Wait! You mean, that guy used to have you has his pet?!" Yaya asked surprised.

"Nah, I wouldn't say that." Tawna said, annoyed at the thought of being Cortex's pet.

"I agree. If we were his and Brio's pets, then I reckon that he'd at least treat us better than as his test subjects." Ami said, with Isabella in agreement.

"Precisely. We were more like his lab monkeys. Experimenting on us, and trying to create an army of us to rule the world with." Tawna then said.

Which made Yaya cringe at that when she was told about it. "Sheesh. Sorry I asked. And I'm hoping, and guessing that they failed?"

All while Tawna ended up smiling at that as she wrapped her right arm around Crash. "And it was all thanks to him, after all, he defeated those guys, and their minions, and destroyed their old fortress, all for me. And I thank him for that."

"Especially since we've destroyed their fortress on the island, just so neither Brio or Cortex wouldn't be able to use it anymore. Sure they might be homeless, but it serves them right for trying to rule the world. And for casting a dark taint on those beautiful islands." Aku Aku said.

"Whew." Yaya said relieved alongside Ami and Isabella. "I'd probably want him for my boyfriend too if I was in her shoes." Yaya thought.

"And ever since that day, Tawna, Crash, and I lived together in our new home on one of the islands." Coco said. "We were gonna add new stuff to our house when big brother and Tawna got teleported to this place. And I… eventually… hacked my way into teleporting to this place, just so I can hope to be of some help. Which would be before we met you all." She then said, looking like she was still hiding something.

If she was, then thankfully for her, nobody noticed yet.

"Y-you all have a home? And on an Isola? (Island?)" Isabella asked surprised.

Coco nodded while smiling. "We built it shortly after Cortex's defeat by my brother's hands." She said referring to Crash. "It's not luxurious, but it's home nonetheless."

Ami, Isabella, and Yaya was surprised at what Coco said about her home. Before they were then turning hopeful at the possibility of what they could also earn once they're free with the Bandicoot trio that they met in the last room. "Well, if it's-"

"If you're hoping that we could offer you gals a place to stay, then no problem. Let me just message m- …some people later on, and I'll make sure that by the time this adventure is over, all of you shall have a home with us on our island." Coco responded.

"After all, you're our friends, and it'd be pretty mean of us to just leave you gals alone here once this is done." Tawna also said, with Crash nodding in agreement.

As much as the other Bandicoots, (And Panda.) questioned the near slip up of Coco's, they were nonetheless smiling at them with some tears of happiness slipping out. They hoped that they would probably have a home once they get their remaining friends back, and end this journey, so to hear the Bandicoot trio that recruited them into the gang being willing to share a home with them, had them happy that they made friends with them. And also happy that they didn't kill them in their mutated forms.

So happy enough to hug all of them, with Ami hugging Tawna, Isabella hugging Crash, and Yaya hugging Coco. "Thank you guys. You're all so kind. I wish we had something to repay you all." Ami said.

"No kidding Ami. I'm glad that you're all so Gentile e generoso. (Kind and generous.)" Isabella said, kissing Crash on the nose.

"N-no problem. Just glad to help." Tawna said, cringing at the strong hug of Ami's. (And pretending that she didn't see Isabella's kiss on Crash.)

"Especially… since, none of you… deserves to be left alone. Not after this." Coco said, as Yaya's energetic hugging had her cringing too.

Once the hugging was done, they ended up planning on how to go, in collecting the Crystals and the Gems for Cortex and Brio. During their thinking though Coco felt a bit curious about Yaya. "By the way Yaya. I'm guessing that you've been turned from a Panda into what you are now? And if so, did Brio make you like this?"

"Nope! I don't even know who he is since we haven't met, so I wasn't made like this!" She said, showing that she isn't Brio's creation, nor Cortex's. "But, there was a scientist from America that traveled to my home town in China, who made me this way. She was a nice gal, and she did have a sweet tooth. She was even generous enough to share some with me!" She said smiling. "And she happened to have taught me how make plenty of those sweet tasting treats with cooking."

"And now, I think I know where she gets her energy." Tawna thought.

"As for why I was caged by that guy, it's a long story. But the small part, is that I was collecting some bamboo sticks for kendo practice, when I met those lizard guys that worked for that guy, and I was able to match them blow for blow, when 'he' shot me with a sleep dart, then boom! I'm in the cage, and I believe it was for a day until I met you guys." Yaya explained.

"Really? I'm guessing that your creator is still out there?" Coco asked.

"Mm-hmm! She's still out there, but I'm independent and I know she's okay, so I'm not looking for her right now. And I'm certain that she currently isn't looking for me since I can take care of myself." Yaya responded.

After their conversations were done, they've decided to save some time, by going into separate teams and enter the portals together.

Crash and Ami is going to Plant Food, (With Aku Aku following them.) Coco and Tawna is going to Sewer or later, and Yaya and Isabella will go to Bear down. (With Polar giving them both a ride, like with Crash and Tawna.)

After some preparation for what's ahead, (And some promises that they'll reunite, from Crash and Tawna.) they all jumped into the portals, transporting them all into different worlds.

In Plant Food, both Ami and Crash was going up another river in possibly the same part of the world in a jungle. (Or is it the longest river in the world that they're going up?) Where on occasions, Crash and Ami would be on the board that was miraculously undamaged from the fight with Pinstripe.

Which was good for both of them, as Ami noted that the current was getting a bit stronger to where she might be unable to push through the water, at least at a fast enough speed compared to the board that Crash was riding.

Which was why, as they were running on a stone path over the water, as well as climbing the little waterfall, Ami couldn't help but feel curious about how Crash got the board, so she asked Aku Aku.

"So what you're telling me, is that Cortex gave both of you the board?" Ami asked Aku Aku after he answered back, telling her that Cortex gave Crash the board.

"Correct. It seems that Cortex knew about Crash's inability to swim, so he made that. It's nice that he invented something to compensate for that." Aku Aku said.

Crash nodded fast in agreement. "Abtholudely noite!" He gibbered.

"Well that's probably one of the few things that I'm giving thanks to Cortex for." Ami said.

"And… not to be rude, but what other things are you thanking him for?" Aku Aku asked.

"For giving me this." She said as she flexed her muscles on her right arm. While also gesturing to her body, and her bust that seemed to be around Tawna's size, if not a little bigger. "And the fact that I have some strength to back it up."

Aku Aku couldn't really argue with that. She was created like that by Cortex and Brio after all.

As they went up the river, whether on some sections of land, or on his board, they came across some carnivorous plants like last time Crash met them. Only this time, there seemed to be much more of them then usual. (It could be why, the level is called Plant Food, for a reason after all.)

"Be careful Crash, Ami, they could eat you whole." Aku Aku said, referring to the Plants.

"Oh really? Gee thanks, I never would've guessed that the sharp teeth could be a tell tale clue." Ami sarcastically said.

Aku Aku felt a little annoyed and somber at the response, as he just hoped to help her. Which she appreciates, regardless of having come to that conclusion herself.

"But seriously, thanks for the heads up. I appreciate it." She then said, trying not to hurt Aku Aku's feelings. Which she didn't, as he said that she's welcome.

As they went forward, jumping on the moving stones, the hippos, while avoiding the robot piranha fishes, the aforementioned plants, and the water, as they made sure to destroy the Boxes as well as spin the plants and other enemies away. With Ami using her punches on the plants while Crash spun them away.

She felt, that she and Isabella, (And hopefully all of their friends that they hope to free.) would like to be taught how to spin like that later on, possibly when their current journey ends.

Suddenly, there was a note on the post of the dock that they walked up to which Crash noticed, so he handed Ami the note, who looked at it in curiosity.

"Hmm. It says

'Dear Crash, (Or whatever ally of his, that found this note.) I have recently discovered something that might interest you if you're still willing to help me beat that rat. (Whom by the way, yes, I'm talking about Cortex.) There is a yellow G-Gem in this part of the world that is required along with the other grey G-Gems that you collected, to power my laser. But there's a challenge that you must do, to earn it. There's a little time trial race beyond this point, where you must beat the clock that is ticking down once you're in the water, which if it reaches zero, the Gem would be gone and you must try again. If you're able to reach it, then you have got the Gem, and my g-g-gratitude. (Which for the latter, you would've gotten more of if you stop grabbing the Crystals too.) Be warned however, as you'll need to be fast to reach it, for the timer is strict.

Now make me proud C-C-Crash. Signed N. Brio.'

there's another colored Gem?!" Ami asked.

"Yes. I believe we have a few more left to gain. Just like the last colored ones that Crash and I was able to gain during our journey to rescue Tawna." Aku Aku said.

"Really? And what happened to the colored Gems that you got?"

"We used them to rescue Tawna from Cortex via Mojo teleportation, and afterwards, she ended up helping us during our fight against Cortex by riding in on a large bird." He said, answering Ami's question. "Now we have to get that colored Gem that is here."

"In that case, go for the Boxes Crash, I'll make sure to beat the speed challenge and meet you at the end of this path." Ami said.

"Are you gonna be okay Ami?" Aku Aku asked as Crash prepared to put the board in the water.

"Don't worry, I'm stronger than whatever comes my way. And I can swim. Plus, there's these." She said, pulling down some vines of the jungle that the river was going through. "I'll pull a Tarzan and get to the Gem this way. Wish me luck!" She said, swinging on the vines to some branches of the trees to continue her swinging through the jungle on some more vines, toward where the end of the river's path is. As she also made some yells for the fun of it.

Crash ended up resuming the Crate breaking, as he rode on the board as he moved through the water on the board, with Aku Aku keeping up with him, with Crash making sure that there's no stone unturned, especially when they enter a bonus area in high tree tops to make sure that all of the Boxes are broken, on their way to the end where Ami should be, hoping that she's holding the Yellow Gem.

Crash kept on using the turbo on his board to zoom through the water, while avoiding the hazards, like mines, nitro Crates, the whirlpools, and the plants that tries to eat him. The latter of which, Crash was careful not to get caught by since they'd eat him whole.

Especially with the small gap in the water that had a pair of those plants on both sides of it on the stones, (Which was shortly after Crash retrieved the Crystal by the way.) forcing Crash to run ahead on the stone path to spin the plants away so they won't try to eat him, before going back in the water on his board. Which would've forced Aku Aku to shield him, which would've wasted some of his Mojo power to save him. But he would still have some more left. He just hopes that Crash won't find even more trouble to protect him from.

Eventually, after dodging the hazards, they ended up witnessing something that they didn't expect to see.

"Hold on. What's happening there?" Aku Aku asked as Crash looked on in shock and surprise.

Ami was holding a yellow Gem, but she was also in combat with another female mutant bandicoot. Only that one was raven haired, while she was wearing a dark green tank top with purple straps, that showed her bust size to be around Ami's, her skirt was dark purple with a pair of white stripes as it trailed down to her lower thighs, she also wears dark purple Capri legging shorts under her skirt, and a pair of dark purple sneakers with white laces. Her fur was a brighter, paler shade of orange, and she also had a svelte form even though her bust was a bit bigger than Isabella's.

That one was like the other mutant Bandicoots that Crash, Coco, Aku Aku, and Tawna fought against, only this one seemed more flexible than Isabella was in her mutated form. It was like she was a ninja Bandicoot that Ami was fighting against. And Ami seemed to recognize her since she wasn't putting up too much of a fight. Instead, she was dodging and making sure not to drop the yellow Gem.

"Liz! Snap out of it! It's me! Ami!" She yelled out, trying to get through to the mutant known as Liz. But Liz didn't listen as she continued to swipe her claws at Ami's direction, landing some scratches on her arms. But she didn't drop the yellow Gem.

Crash and Aku Aku rushed to her aid, as an angered Crash ended up using his jumping spin attack on Liz after running behind her due to Ami's inadvertent distraction. Causing the helmet to end up sparking, and having Liz roar in pain. Before making a growling noise at Crash for the sneak attack that he did. But rather than fight back against them, she decided to retreat away from the Bandicoots by hopping through the trees, while declaring in an echoing voice that she'll be back in the next fight.

"Are you okay Ami?" Aku Aku asked, hoping that Ami isn't in pain from the scratches.

"I'll be fine. Just a bit spooked." Ami responded with a grunt of pain at the scratches. "Thanks for the save though. There was some times that I thought Liz was gonna kill me." She then said, giving Crash an arm wrestle handshake. Which had him relieved that she's alright.

"That Bandicoot was Liz? Is she the more flexible of your friends?" Aku Aku asked.

"Of course. She was like a ninja among us after our mutation. Even though she's supposed to be from England. And she happened to have an ego like me, only it's more towards her beauty, and not muscles. But she still keeps us together, like Bells does. I just hope that we shall be able to save her from that helmet." Ami said concerned for Liz.

"And we will make sure to do that during this journey." Aku Aku said, assuring Ami that they'll free her. Much to Ami's joy. "Right now, we have the Gems and the Crystal, so might as well go back to the warp room for the next place to go to."

They all proceeded to do that, as they got to the teleportation chamber, where they got the box Gem, and then got teleported back to the warp room. With Ami feeling determined to save Liz and Megumi when they meet.

Meanwhile, with Tawna and Coco, they were proceeding onwards through the sewer, spinning away the enemies, avoiding the Nitro Crates, and keeping themselves out of the shin deep water that had the electric eels inside, by standing on the floating platforms.

"It's nice to see that you have the ability to create your spiritual duplicates. Now we know that you're doing good in keeping us safe." Coco said smiling at at a hologram of Aku Aku.

"It's not a problem. I just hope that I won't end up getting drained of my strength this way before this journey ends." Aku Aku said, his voice echoing through his spirit.

As Aku Aku's spirit clone was following them both, as Aku Aku wanted to make sure that his friends would be okay. So he had a pair of spirits of himself made to follow the other Bandicoots when they split up into different courses.

And currently, Aku Aku was following Crash and Ami, while his spirits followed Coco and Tawna in Sewer or Later, and Yaya, Polar, and Isabella in Bear Down.

Tawna and Coco noticed the spirit behind them due to Aku Aku's voice, which was a relief to them that Aku Aku was making sure to keep them alive and well.

Even as they ended up coming across some workers that looked pretty familiar, as they had the square jaw, pale skin, short chestnut brown hair, and white shirts. They looked like Cortex's robot workers that used to work for Brio and Cortex, and they seem to be working only for Brio now, since they were trying to shoot fire at both Coco and Tawna, forcing them to keep their distance from the minion until he's done shooting fire.

Which he was forced to do, to relight his fire. Ending in the minion getting taken out by Coco and Tawna's spin move.

"And I thought that Crash destroyed all of these things. I didn't think that Brio would build more of them." Coco said.

"I know. Especially since they look like they're mostly Cortex's robots. Shouldn't Brio and Cortex still be at each other's throats? Or did Brio steal some of them?" Tawna asked.

Neither Bandicoot knew for sure, even though they were leaning towards the latter alongside Aku Aku. But they didn't dwell on that. As they continued onward through the sewer, taking out the familiar enemies. While avoiding the Nitro Crates, the cleaner bots, and the rolling barrels that for some reason, continues to roll left and right inside the pipe in an attempt to flatten them, which would be before they got through the room with the puddle with the electric eel.

Until eventually, they came across a yellow Gem platform that was surrounded by armored rats, and was also currently holographic, which could mean that they have yet to grab the yellow Gem to solidify the platform.

"Seriously? There's another Gem challenge?" Tawna asked, since she didn't expect that she'd be on another Gem challenge with Coco. Even though they can't do the challenge yet due to the hologram.

"You know, I think I saw a yellow Gem's empty spot near the portal that Crash and Ami took." Coco said, having noticed a spot on the warp room's wall that had a yellow color to it, prior to entering their portal.

"Really? That's good! Now We just need to wait until they have the Gem, before we can ride this Platform to the Gem challenge." Tawna said.

"Or, we could split up, and you could help break the Boxes in this area, while I wait until the Platform solidifies. It could help save some time in grabbing the Gem." Coco said, sitting down and getting on her laptop.

Tawna quickly knew that it was not a bad idea, in fact, it was a good one as she saw Coco on her laptop, looking like she could be spending some time on there. "Okay. Just be careful. I don't wanna lose my little sis." She said.

Coco smiled at that, feeling that she herself viewed Tawna as a cool big sis. (Albeit one that occasionally gets a bit naughty with her brother too. Even though she never saw them go at it in front of her.) So it was really nice for her to reciprocate that feeling, back to Coco. "I'll be careful. Thanks Tawna." She said, typing on her laptop as Tawna proceeded forward.

Where she immediately saw a new hazard, which was a spinning fan that even though it was spinning slow, it looked like it had sharp blades that could dice her if she isn't careful enough. She was a careful female though, as she dashed through the open sections of the fan, before meeting another flamethrower minion that she spun away before proceeding onwards.

Where after she went through the bonus room, she saw more of the spinning fans, only this time, they were spinning faster. "Oh crap. What'll I do to get through this pipe?" She said, face palming.

She had to think about it for a minute, when she saw some cleaner bots that was in front of the fan. That was when she quickly had an idea to use them to take a shot from the fan. So she spun them away, expecting a result that she hopes will benefit her.

Which it does, as the cleaner bot collided with one of the fan blades, causing it to break off, leaving only two fan blades left. Much to her joy.

But, she felt that she has little chance to jump through the gap that was made, while there was still two blades. So she had to shoot another minion with her spinning move to break off another fan blade.

Now she feels confident to time her jumping through the gap, and make it to the other end of the fan without losing a limb. Which she proceeded to do, before moving onwards, where she saw another electric eel room, and another fan beyond the room. It was getting annoying.

But Tawna dealt with the eel room, and then dealt with the spinning fan blades by using some more of the cleaner bots. Now she felt that she was getting closer to the exit. Now, she had to wait until Coco completes the Gem challenge, and rushes to her side, before she can leave the level.

She was just currently at the fork in the road a la the pipe that separated into two paths up ahead. One of which she felt, led to the room that had the Crystal that she was looking for. Which is the path that she chose on the left.

As she got to the chamber that held the purple Crystal though, she saw that it was guarded by a mech. Not just any mech though, as it was a mech that had an upper half that was egg shaped, while having a round window that showed someone in the cockpit, while having stumpy legs, was pink colored, had a laser Gatling gun on its right arm, and a missile launcher on the left, and the window showed that it was piloted by a familiar face.

A face that had Tawna quickly shocked and a little horrified at who it was. Being the familiar helmeted Japanese Bandicoot known as Megumi, whom piloted the bear mech when they first met Polar.

And to make matters worse, Tawna heard the door closing behind her, which means that she was trapped in the room with the Japanese Bandicoot in the mech. And despite her somber and stoic posture in the mech, Megumi seemed to be out for revenge, and determined to beat Tawna.

"I do apologize for what I'm about to do, but as long as you collect the Crystals, then I must do my duty for Brio-sama. Gomen ne. (I'm sorry.)" She apologized, before starting their fight with launching missiles that launched upwards, before falling back down.

Tawna was forced to run and jump around the room to dodge the missiles, hoping that they'll have a short explosive range. Her hopes were partially answered, as they weren't large explosions. But they weren't short either. Which knocked her into some walls.

She wasn't out of the fight yet though, as she merely had to find a weakness to the mech that the Japanese Bandicoot piloted, as she fired more missiles out of the mech's left arm and shoulders. While Aku Aku's spirit floated around the mech, closely until he could find the spot to attack.

It was a daunting task for a few minutes as she kept on dodging the missiles that got shot out of the left arm, and avoided the explosions, as well as the lasers that got shot out of the right arm. Thankfully for Tawna, the missiles that didn't blow up, and got stuck to the ground provided cover for the lasers, and she had enough space to dive out of the way of the lasers to any nearby cover, since the room they were in was surprisingly open enough for her to maneuver. She just needed to use something to throw at the robot to break the mech.

Even though there was some of the lasers that ended up grazing her skin, making her cringe at the laser cuts, feeling relieved that they hadn't hit her yet.

"Please stand still! Brio-sama would be mad if I fail in beating the Bandicoots that steals more Crystals for Cortex." She said. Before she then shot out some lasers against her, trying to hit her.

Tawna ignored her seemingly polite demand as she continued to dodge and weave through the missiles and the lasers that she fired from her mech. She just needed to find a weakness to use against the mech.

"Aim for one of the missiles, it'll blow up and damage the mech that you're fighting!" Aku Aku's spirit said, coming up with an idea to use against the Japanese Bandicoot.

With Aku Aku's spirit helping her, she was able to find one in the openings that launches the missiles. She just needed to throw some projectiles at those openings, or see if the mech can shoot homing missiles, which she could use against the mech.

Which was when she realized that there was still some Wumpa fruit in her pockets that she had yet to eat later on. That was when she had an Idea to put the fruit to good use, by throwing them at the missiles to have them explode once they are about to be fired by the mech.

She just hopes she won't destroy the mech entirely, and kill the Japanese Bandicoot inside, as a result.

As soon as the mech was about to fire the missiles, Tawna pulled out one of the Wumpa fruit from her pocket, and threw it just as the missile was jumping out of the missile bay. Unfortunately, she missed and hit the laser arm that accidentally blocked the fruit as she raised it to fire, so she was forced to dodge the missile that she tried to blow up, alongside the other missiles that was also launched.

And, if that wasn't enough, there was some of them even hitting her in her abdominals, making her yelp, and grunt in pain at what she feels, was her first time getting hit directly. (Not counting the grazing cuts that she got beforehand.) Thankfully for her, Aku Aku was able to heal her wound on her belly. (Even though her pink shirt had a hole on it where the laser hit it.) But his spirit was fading a bit, looking like it was about to disappear if he keeps on healing her with his Mojo. Which would mean that she'd be vulnerable to actually getting hurt, and killed if he's gone.

"I can't miss another shot at another missile. I don't know how long I can dodge the missiles until they turn me into chunks." Tawna thought, shuddering at the thought of getting blown to bits. Not to mention how Crash, Coco, and Aku Aku would feel.

So she had to do some aiming while dodging and weaving the lasers that the mech fired at her. With Megumi, now focusing on Tawna, her dodging got difficult to where she started to grab a few more hits against her, as she shot her in the knee. Which Aku Aku ended up healing. But he was starting to fade soon thanks to spending more Mojo on healing, and he knew it.

So she had to be careful of the lasers, as she continued to barely dodge the lasers, until the mech got ready to fire the missiles from its left arm again. Which is what Tawna needed as she aimed, then she threw another one of her Wumpa fruits at the missile once she was sure she'd hit it.

She ended up hitting it on just the right mark, as the missile ended up blowing up right when the missile was out of the opening of the mech. Which send it flying backwards a bit into the wall, while destroying the left arm that shot it out. Leaving it with only the right laser arm.

But Tawna was pretty close herself, as she ended up getting pushed back by the shockwave of the explosions. Which ended up stunning her a bit as she ended up getting some shrapnel on her shoulders. Which got healed by Aku Aku's remaining Mojo, causing his spirit to fade. But he knew that Tawna might end the battle in victory soon, so he wasn't concerned when his spirit disappeared from the room.

Thankfully for Tawna, the mech wasn't too well armored, at least in the glass part of the mech, as the cockpit's glass ended up shattering, exposing the Japanese Bandicoot to Tawna. Now she had to make a dash to the Bandicoot in the mech, then yank her out of the cockpit before taking the helmet off, before she could react.

Something that she was fast enough in doing, despite having been stunned herself. But she was fast enough to barely recover her wits. plus, the japanese Bandicoot was dazed from the blast as well, so she had a little bit more time to get to her before she could get the mech back up and running again.

So Tawna got to the mech, reached into the cockpit, and pulled the Bandicoot out of the mech before she could recover and reactivate the mech.

Now she just had to get the helmet off of her, before she could probably clobber her with Karate, and get back in the mech, and start her back into square one. So she quickly got to the helmet.

When the Bandicoot came back to her senses as she had her hands on Tawna's forearms. "NO! STO-"

Too late, as Tawna was able to get the helmet off of her head regardless of the difficulty. Before seeing that she had blank eyes, and Cyan blue hair in a pair of buns on her head, before she yelled out in pain and defeat as she started to speak in Japanese, and gibberish as she ended up changing back to normal, before unconsciousness took over. (Although she looked the most normal out of all the mind controlled bandicoots that they fought against.) Now, Tawna had to wait until the Japanese Bandicoot was awake again.

Which didn't take too long before she ended up waking up with a headache. "Oooh. Zutsū ga shimasu. (I have a headache.)" The Japanese Bandicoot said as she held her head to nurse her headache.

"Are you okay miss?" Tawna asked.

"I'll be fine. Don't worry." She said, using a technique to calm her headache before looking at Tawna. "Say, you remind me of my friend, but you're not Isabella-chan. Who're you?"

"I'm a friend of Isabella's. Name's Tawna. And I've freed you from Brio's control." Tawna said.

At the last part, the Japanese Bandicoot ended up jumping up excitedly before putting Tawna in her arms, twirling her around in joy. "Yatta ̄! Dōmo arigatōgozaimasu! (Hooray! Thank you so much!)" She yelled out excitedly.

"N-no problem. You must be Megumi, right? Ami told me your name by the way." Tawna asked.

"Ami-chan told you about me? Does that mean she's free too?!" Megumi asked excitedly.

"Yep. We freed her after Isabella. Now it's just this Liz fellow that we have left." She said.

"You mean Elizabeth-chan? Liz-chan for short? She's the last to be freed?! Yokatta! (Thank goodness!) I was hoping for such a day that we'd all be freed!" Megumi said happily.

"Well, you're a nice girl. So was Ami and Isabella. Although I should keep an eye on the latter when she's around Crashie. Now, come on, we're going to the exit to this place, that should be close." Tawna said, grabbing the Crystal, before leading Megumi through the pipe to the path to the right.

"Nante iyana nda. (How disgusting.) Brio should clean up this sewer more."

"I'm with you, I'm not much of a sewer person myself. It's nice to see that I'm not the only one, alongside Isabella." Tawna said, coming up to the exit level chamber. "I just hope that Coco is coming this way as I speak."

"Coco? Is she your Tomodachi? (Friend?)"

"Let's just say, she's like a sister to me, and she's my boyfriend's actual sister too." Tawna said, coming up to the teleportation podium, noticing the hologram of a Box that they passed, showing them a counter of how many Boxes they have yet to break. Which Tawna knew, there was a couple left, but she knew Coco has them, for now though she just had to get to the Warp room and show Ami and Isabella that Megumi is alive.

Back in the warp room, The gang was nearly gathered up, as Crash and Ami was the first to end up in the Warp room, collecting the Crystal, Box Gem, and yellow Gem. Before Yaya, Isabella, and Polar was the next to enter, having the Crystal, another Box Gem, and another clear Gem that they possibly got from a death route that Polar rode them through.

Finally, Tawna returned to the Warp room with Megumi in tow as they collected the Crystal, now they were waiting for Coco to collect the Box Gem, while Megumi ended up facing both Ami and Isabella.

"Megumi?" "Megumi-chan?!" Both Isabella and Ami asked shocked. While Megumi was also shocked, before she then got overjoyed.

"My friends! You're here, and free!" Megumi said with her arms open, expecting a hug.

Which is what she got, as Isabella and Ami ended up hugging her as they jumped around in a circle, laughing and squealing in joy, happy to see that Megumi is alive and free from Brio's control helmet. Now they all knew that only Liz is left for saving. And soon, they'll all be freed from Brio's and Cortex's control.

All while Tawna and Crash, (With arms romantically around their shoulders as they occasionally nuzzled each other.) and Polar and Yaya, were looking on smiling at the reunion of the Bandicoots that they saved and befriended on this journey. As they waited for Coco to reemerge from the Sewer or Later portal.

All while Yaya also explained to Tawna and Crash about their journey through Bear Down. Where it was like the last snowy crevice that Polar rode Crash and Tawna through, only at the end, they ended up grabbing the Gem, before they decided to hop across the rocks to a little patch of land on the water, out of curiosity.

Which is where they ended up getting mysteriously teleported to the basement room of the Warp Room like Tawna did when they first met Isabella. Where they saw that another Portal was activated, that led to the Totally Bear level.

Which was another snowy crevice that they rode Polar through. Only that one was darker than the other ones that they rode Polar through. Which made them nervous about running through the dark for the Crates since they could only see a short distance through the path. They were barely able to make it unharmed to the other end of the path after jumping, sprinting, and breaking all of the Boxes that was in their path. Until soon, they made it to the end where they got the grey Gem, which happened to be the only thing they could collect from the area.

No Crystal was there, just a Gem.

"Hmm… so it seems that the basement had a use after all. We better be on the lookout for any more secret warps that we can find." Tawna said.

"You can count on that." Yaya said, as the Bandicoot girls were done with their little circle hug.

"I'm so happy that you're free. And I'm so glad that our new friends have freed us from Brio's helmets." Megumi said. Before all of the Bandicoots gave their thanks to Tawna and Crash for their kindness.

Which they responded with "No problem."

"By the way, how did you all get free?" Megumi asked. Causing them to answer that Crash, Tawna, and Coco freed them from their mind control.

Then they proceeded to explain to Megumi of what Crash, Tawna, and Coco were doing, when they were sent to do Brio's bidding only to lose to them, which is when they got their helmets removed by them.

"So, what you're saying is that Cortex-san, is trying to collect the Crystals with your help, to stop this mysterious force, yet Brio-san wants the Gems too, so he can stop Cortex's plans from being made? So we're all collecting the Crystals and Gems for them both?" Megumi said.

"Yep. And even though we're collecting for Cortex to save this world, I have a feeling that Brio is not the bad guy of this journey. But whether Cortex is the worse of the two evils, remains to be seen. We just have to make sure that Coco is able to figure out what Cortex is planning.

As Tawna finished her sentence, the room got dark as they all expected to see Cortex's hologram appearing above them again. This time though, it was Coco's hologram that appeared in his place. And she was looking at Crash and Tawna, not seeing the Bandicoot girls since they were behind her hologram on the other side of the room.

"Crash! Tawna! Thank goodness! I just hacked into Cortex's computer, and found some detailed schematics for the improved Cortex-Vortex, and a suspicious looking space station above Earth! I'm not sure, but Cortex might be trying to-" She tried to say, only for her hologram vanish, signaling a cut signal.

"Trying to what? Coco? Damn!" Tawna said, hating the timing of the signal getting cut before Coco could tell them more.

"Sheesh! Watch your language please." Megumi said, caught off guard at the sudden drop of the D-bomb courtesy of Tawna.

Whom ended up blushing at that in slight shame. "Sorry." She softly said.

Then suddenly, Coco ended up emerging out of the Portal, having collected the Yellow Gem course's Gem from the Sewer level. "Sorry I'm late, the Gem challenge was a bit tough but I got the Gem." She said smiling. "What did I miss?"

The last part had the Bandicoots looking at her weirdly in confusion at what they heard. "Uh, weren't you telling us about some sort of Cortex-Vortex, and Space Station through the hologram?" Ami asked.

"I did? OOH! YES! I WAS! I remembered that Cortex has a space station now! He might be inside it as we speak, and he's expecting us to have the Crystals. Plus, he has the Vortex as part of the Space Station." She responded.

"Really?! What does he plan to do with that?" Tawna asked.

"Uhh… I forgot." Coco said with an awkward giggle. Causing the Bandicoots to Face Fault in the room like last time. "But Cortex is planning to use the Crystals to power the cannon on the Space Station! And it could be nefarious." She said.

"Hmm… Maybe he's using that Space Station's Vortex as a Laser cannon like Coco said. I hope he isn't planning to blast the Earth with it." Ami said in anger and horror.

"Maybe the cannon is on the station as like a mirror? Where he's using the Crystals to absorb the force, and then he'd use the cannon on the Station to hopefully blast it somewhere else to redirect it away from Earth?" Megumi said.

"If that's the case, then how does Brio fit into this? Maybe he has his own plans for the Gems. Which could be beneficial as Coco says." Isabella asked. "Even though I also believe that he's gonna use it to destroy the station to get back at Cortex?"

That had them thinking about it for a bit. While little did they know, Coco looked pretty somber, like she felt, or knew that what Ami said was the most likely thing to happen. Even though they (Minus Coco.) also believe that Cortex's Space Station could also be used for the purpose that Megumi claimed he could be using it for. Which had them torn about who to side with on this journey.

Whether it could be Cortex, or Brio that they'll side with near the end, they don't know.

But one thing's for sure though, this journey is probably gonna get harder from here on out.

Chapter Text

After they were done with their thoughts, the gang decided to tackle the last two portals in the room before going to fight the next bosses that they might have to fight against on their way to the next room.

So they decided to split into teams for the portals. Crash, Tawna, Coco, and Yaya will go to Road to Ruin, while Isabella, Ami, Megumi, and Polar will go to Unbearable. (Yet another pun name for a level that had most of the Gang snickering at that.)

"When we're all ready, let's be sure to get in the portal together." Tawna announced.

"Got it!" Coco said.

Soon, after some readying breaths, they all got ready, then got in the portals to the respective levels. (But not before Isabella got bold, and blew a kiss towards Crash. Which was noticed by Crash and Tawna as the latter glared as she towed a blushing Crash to the portal.)

What quickly met their eyes, was that they were on top of some stone footbridge paths that was high over some sort of Mesoamerican ruins. Which they saw, was basically abandoned ruins, like there was a battle that took place at least a few hundred years ago. Probably before even Cortex's father was even born.

And that had the Bandicoots and Panda shedding some tears at the sight in front of them. Since they felt that the past civilization's city was probably beautiful to look at. And now, all that remains of them is this ruins part of the world. And that was such a shame.

Even Aku Aku was looking on in sadness at what was in front of him.

"Those poor ancient people. Time was not kind to them, or their cities. They don't deserve this." Aku Aku said.

"I hear ya. I don't know what happened here, but this is just plain sad." Yaya said, upset.

"This place might've been beautiful back then, yet here we are now. It's like this place got conquered and destroyed back then. It's so sad." Coco said softly.

"I know. But we shouldn't dwell on it now. We've gotta keep moving!" Aku Aku said.

The gang didn't need to be told twice. As they kept on running through the stone bridge that lead to an open mouth tunnel. Which looked like some sort of beast's open mouth that they were running through.

At least they were, until they came across a large chasm that had a metal box on the other end, while in the middle of the chasm, there was a bunch of holograms that were shaped like boxes that was put together. Pretty much like the other holograms that Crash, Tawna, and Coco saw in (And occasionally outside) the bonus levels.

And unfortunately for them, it seems that none of them has enough strength in their jumps to reach the other end.

"I'm guessing that's where we can enter the level through the secret warp room." Tawna said, guessing that she's found another reason to visit the secret warp room for the Gems.

"Seems like it. So we better come back to this place after we get our Crystal. And hopefully the other Gem from this place." Coco said, having noticed another indent on the wall, which looked like they have another Gem to grab.

Crash ended up nodding in agreement as they proceeded onwards to the open mouth figure.

Which only lead to the other end of the head as they ran on through to the other stone bridge, where they saw that there was a large rat that walked back and forth on it.

"Is this the best Brio could do?" Tawna asked, feeling that although rats are gross in her eyes, they can be easily beaten, where Crash is concerned.

"I know. I could kick that rat's butt with my legs tied behind my back!" Yaya said, feeling that the rats would pose no challenge to them all as Coco and Crash spun the rat away, before they all proceeded onwards.

While somehow, not knowing that there was a stone idol looking at them as it turned to where they were going.

Which is where they met more rats, which all of them took care of either with Spinning, or jumping onto them to squish them. All while breaking some more boxes with their feet or their spinning.

And then they immediately meet a new enemy. Which looked like a frilled lizard that looked like its frill's edges were glowing hot as it walked around back and forth. It was like it was wearing a metallic large brace on its neck to burn the Bandicoots with.

And that hat, did some damage since Coco tried to spin the lizard away, only to have her foot hitting the hat. Which blocked it, and burned her shoe.

"Ahh! HOT! HOT! HOT!" Coco said as she slapped her pants to put out the flames while getting away from the lizard, much to the Gang's surprise. (And as they also tried not to laugh at the sight.)

Crash was able to put out the fire before it could spread, as he was able to suffocate the fire in a cartoonish sense, by putting Coco's entire foot in his mouth. Causing smoke to exit through his ears as a hissing sound was made. Before he then took her foot back out of his mouth and onto the ground.

Her overall pant leg was a little charred along with her shoe, but at least she didn't become ashes thanks to Crash.

"Thanks bro." Coco said, feeling both grateful, and weirded out by Crash's method of putting the fire out.

As was the rest of the gang. But they felt that it's just Crash being Crash.

"No plabwem siths!" He gibbered, before he then tried to attack the lizard in a different way that involved spinning.

Only for Tawna so stop him. "Wait Crashie! I've got an idea." She said, noticing that the lizard's upper frills only protected the top of its body, leaving its lower parts exposed.

Which means that its upper part is well protected, but its lower parts is a different story. At least, so she sees.

She knew there was only one way to find out though, as she then decided to dash to the lizard, before doing a slide kick to its lower body to see if it's vulnerable there.

Sure enough, it was, as it was now sent flying away.

Which worked for Tawna and the Gang, as they continued onwards while taking down more of the lizards that crossed their path, mostly by slide kicking them. Which Coco, Tawna, and Yaya did well while Crash merely spun out the rats, and broke at least the boxes that was in their reach. All while they went through another huge idol's mouth cave.

Where they saw that there was the other stone idols, only those ones were breathing fire out of their mouths, as if either they had some sort of flamethrower inside of them that shot out fire out through those mouths like they breathe fire, or that they were possessed by spirits that magically had them shooting out the fire.

Either way, they had to watch out for them, or they could turn to ashes like Coco could've been without Crash.

"Whaa! Careful guys!" Yaya said, feeling some heat from one of the idols as she almost got caught on fire.

The Gang was way ahead of her on that.

Then they suddenly saw a platform in between the other Idols. Only that one happened to have a similar Skull and Crossbones symbol on it, like the one back when they met Isabella.

"Oh man. That looks like another platform to a death route. And look, another note is there." Coco said, noticing a note on the platform. Which she decided to read herself.

"It says, 'Dear B-Bandicoots, what you see before you is another death route platform. T-this one shall send you to the route that is harder than the current route that you're all on, for a G-Gem. I-If you're still willing to h-help me, then go through the route that this platform is going to levitate to once you're all on it. B-but be warned, Cortex's minions are in that r-route, and they won't give up the G-G-Gem without a fight. And they are not easy foes to beat. So t-tread carefully.' Sincerely, Brio."

"Another death route challenge? Even though the last one was where we met Isabella? It seems like it's a trap this time." Tawna said.

"You mean, this Italian Bandicoot met you like this?" Yaya asked.

"Yep. That's how we met Isabella. So, I wonder if this platform would lead us to another mutant Bandicoot?" Tawna asked.

"I doubt it. As I'm sure that Brio is saving his last minion for the more opportune moment. So I'm sure that this platform will lead to the legit death route that this note is warning us about." Coco said.

"In that case, let's split up." Tawna said.

"Good Idea. You and Yaya will continue on ahead. Crash and I will take on the death route." Coco said, taking Crash by the hand and standing on the platform together, causing it to float away to the other end of the bridge path.

"Good Luck Coco! And be sure to keep Crashie safe!" Tawna said as they floated off to the route.

Where their challenge was about to begin.

Since quickly after they got off the platform after their brief ride, they ended up getting on top of some pillars, where they were suddenly assaulted by what looked like a dark blue furred Gorilla with a dark red Scorpion's tail. He also seemed to have some sort of tribal tattoos that glowed in the night sky. And he was throwing some logs at their direction.

Which, since they didn't expect it, the log collided with their heads, knocking them for a loop.

Or at least, it could've had Aku Aku's spirit not protected them from the log, at the cost of some of his mojo. But it still caught them off guard, and did sting a bit as they got out of the way of the next log thrown their way.

"WHOAAAH! What are those things?!" Coco asked, a bit scared.

"That, would be a Scorporilla. They used to be average animals before Cortex made them like this." Aku Aku's spirit said angrily. "And worse, he happened to have stolen some of our Island's mojo to create that creature among others, to create what is now known as the Titans. That monster!" He then said softly, yet angrily, showing his rage in a sort of quiet way that is bound to leave Cortex's spine feeling chilled if he was there with him.

(Little did he know, Cortex did feel a chill up his spine back in the space station, although he doesn't know why.)

"Be on your guard children! This place is crawling with those things, and they're guarding that Gem on this route. I'm sure of it." He said.

"YOU MEAN THERE'S MORE OF THEM?!" Coco asked shocked and nervous.

"I'm thinking so." Aku Aku said somberly.

Despite her nervousness though, she knew that they have to get past those Scorporillas to get to the Gem. The world depended on it. So she continued onwards with Crash by her side, ignoring the dangers that the hybrid posed.

Even as it threw another log at their direction, they were able to duck under it, or just jump over it. Sorta like the game that Coco remembered playing on her laptop. Which had an ape that threw barrels at her character.

Pretty soon, they were able to make it to the Scorporilla, and quickly spin it away before it could put its tail to good use.

But they knew there was others after it, so they braced themselves for the others as they jumped on the other pillars together. All while keeping watch for each other.

Despite their little predicament, they still giggled together, since they were glad to be together again on their little adventure, since they're close to each other like siblings. Especially in Coco's case towards Crash, regardless of his unintelligence. (Not as close as Tawna and Crash's relationship, but pretty close as siblings go.) And they find it fun to do some parkour together as a team. Which could make it more fun if Tawna joined in.

They still had to keep on jumping on the pillars, as well as the platforms that moved around in circles, before fighting more of those Scorporillas as they dodged the logs that they threw their way. All while making sure to be on a look out for the Gem in the Route, just so that they would grab it to make this hard course worth it. And so that they make sure that they haven't been tricked into going through the route for nothing.

The death route lived up to the name though, as the next Scorporilla ahead of them ended up getting a shot in with its scorpion tail on Coco, making a gash just above her hip that had her squealing in pain, before Crash spun the titan away in revenge for his sister. Thankfully, whatever poison that the Scorporilla could've put in Coco, was disabled by Aku Aku's protective magic.

Sadly, his spirit was on the verge of fading away, so they felt that they had to be careful of another hit on them, or they would be vulnerable to any attacks that they can send their way, until they reunite with Aku Aku back in the main course.

Thankfully, there was less of them, which Aku Aku knew that it was because Cortex didn't have enough Mojo to create more of them. And the death route wasn't long, since they soon got to the Gem that they were able to catch after dodging the fire breathing Idols, before they had at least a few more meters to go, and taking out another one of those Titans, before finding the platform back to the main course, where they would hopefully reunite with Tawna and Yaya.

Which is good, since those Titans were difficult, and they hoped that they wouldn't end up fighting more of those for now. Especially in a place like Road to Ruin.

Once they were off the platform after it made the trip back to the main path, they were now running ahead to find Tawna and Yaya. As they went forward, they ended up noticing that the rats and frilled lizards were gone, which meant that Yaya and Tawna were up ahead after they cleaned house for both Crash and Coco to move through without much trouble.

At least, until they ended up meeting another Scorporilla that came out of nowhere, and tried to crush both Coco and Crash in its massive arms. Thankfully, Aku Aku's spirit was able to protect them both from the surprise attack with the last of the Mojo, before fading away.

And luckily, they were fast enough to spin away the Scorporilla in reflex. Eventually, they were able to find Tawna and Yaya, who were waiting for them at the end of the level, with both of them feeling glad that they're alive. Although both of them were shocked at the gash on Coco's hip.

"Sweet mother of Wumpa! Are you okay Coco?!" Tawna asked concerned.

"I'm fine. Just a scratch." Coco said, even though she still cringed at the wound from the Titan's tail. "I'm sure though, that we might not meet more of those things. For now at least."

"Huh. Either way, thank goodness you're alright. And thanks for keeping my Crashie safe." She said as Crash ended up hugging her in love as Yaya and Coco high fived each other for their survival, then they were able to exit the Level.

Meanwhile… in Unbearable

If there was anybody that was walking in the forest covered in snow, they would've heard a bunch of panicking and screaming not too far away, and on the clear snowy path through the forest.

And why not, as the other Bandicoot gang, was running through the path, along with Polar, who was being ridden by Megumi, as they were chased by a large angry bear/boar hybrid, which is known as the Goar Titan that is chasing them, and whom is definitely not the mother bear to Polar, and whom wants to either maul them, or eat them whole.

Neither of which, the gang wanted to test out, as they ran for their lives as Megumi rode on Polar's back to dash away from the Titan, known as the Goar's wrath.

And it was after they ended up going through an area that was in a pit that they at first thought was bottomless when they accidentally fell in. Only for them to land in what looked like a cave, that had waterfalls inside like they were inside a mountain that had views of tree branches and rocks on the outside, through the holes in the cave. Almost like they were viewing the outside through a window in the mountain.

And inside the cave that they traversed, there was some turtles with spikes, and spinning blades on their shells, robotic armadillos that was impervious to their jumping on them, and worst of all, hunters that shot out large spinning missiles that somehow makes small explosions when they collide with anything they hit.

Which included Isabella's abdominals, but Aku Aku's spirit protected her from harm. Although she still felt pain from the shot, before clobbering the hunter out of vengeance.

After they dealt with the hunters, they were back on the forest path, where they ended up getting chased by the Goar after a couple steps forward. And that was after seeing a mutant Bandicoot that they recognized as Liz, whom sicked the Goar on them before fleeing herself.

"SCAPPA! SCAPPA! (Run away! Run away!) GET AWAY FROM THAT THING!" Isabella said.

"WE'RE TRYING! But that bear thing is pretty fast for a fatty!" Ami said. Angering the Goar who thought that she insulted its weight. Causing it to roar, making them run faster in fear.

"NO KIDDING! Subete no kuma wa tsūjō hayaidesu! (All bears are usually fast!)" Megumi said, trying not to fall off of Polar.

As they ran, they all avoided the obstacles that got in their way, just so they won't get stopped and get eaten by the Goar. It wasn't easy for them, but they kept on going.

All while making sure to save each other from whatever obstacle comes their way, whether it would be wooden fences in a diamond hive pattern, mines that Tawna, Crash, Coco, and Isabella had dealt with before, and the electric gates coming back again, just so one of them won't get eaten by the Goar. And while Aku Aku's other spirit was able to keep on protecting them too.

Not to mention falling down into the pits that could be bottomless, or full of spikes.

There was also a new obstacle, being blue lizards with green patterns on their backs, whom also seems to be running from the Goar. Yet they were also dangerous due to what the gang believed was poisonous skin. At least according to the colors of the lizards. So they avoided them too.

All while also avoiding the boxes, feeling that the boxes would be broken by the Goar, which could count towards the box Gem that they're after.

As they ran though, they felt that they might end up having to stop to take a breather if they continue running for at least three more minutes. Which would be the death of them if the Goar is still chasing after them and Polar. Polar though, still was fast enough to out speed the Goar, but he too might end up getting eaten trying to save them if they stop for a breather.

It felt like a battle of endurance as they ran away fast from the bear/boar hybrid, hoping that they may end up finding safety for their breather. No matter how temporary the safety is.

Thankfully, they found a bunch of planks that was over the large pit, that they hoped would break under the Goar's weight to make the Titan fall in. So they just needed to keep on running for at least some more miles before taking a breather on the other side once the Goar falls in the gap. That is, if the bear/boar hybrid isn't able to make it to the other end.

Which, fortunately for them, despite its attempts, it couldn't. When they got to the other end of the bridge of planks, the bear/boar hybrid tried to catch them as the planks broke under its feet. Before it then fell into the pit below as it tried to claw its way on the edge of the other end.

Much to their relief, since that gave them their needed breather, as they sat on the dirt to recuperate.

"Whew… C'è… mancato poco. (That… was close.)" Isabella said, huffing.

"I hear ya. I… could've almost… felt his chompers… just inches behind my tail." Ami said, also trying to regain her breath.

"Thank goodness that there was those planks that we crossed. Otherwise, that bear thing could've ate us." Megumi said, feeling the least tired due to riding Polar throughout the chase, whom was also catching his breath.

"And to think, Crash dealt with this before with those round boulders. Poor Crashie." Isabella said, feeling sorry for Crash after hearing about his past times when he outran a boulder, both alone, and then with Tawna by his side.

"At least he's still here along with Tawna and his sis." Ami said smiling.

Which had Isabella smiling as well, feeling glad that Crash has survived his own dangers before meeting herself and her friends. And now, after their journey ends, and they all reunite, they get to live with them, free from the control of Cortex and Brio.

For now though, they had to get the Gem and Crystal. The latter of which, they were able to grab after catching sight of it just meters away from their current location. So Megumi ended up grabbing it first, before they were then now running onwards through the path now that the Goar Titan was no longer chasing them.

On their way to the end of the path though, both Megumi and Polar suddenly ended up getting teleported when they jumped over one of the pits to a certain spot. Which alarmed her friends as she vanished.

"Megumi?!" Isabella said shocked after seeing them disappear. Leaving her and Ami as the only ones in the level.

"Did they just get warped to the basement warp room?" Ami asked, remembering Tawna mentioning the warp room in the basement. "If so, then she'll be fine. Come on! We've got a Gem to earn!" Ami said.

"Sì. Sto arrivando! (Yes. I'm coming!)" Isabella said, following Ami to the end of the level. Where they ended up getting the Gem, then getting back to the Warp Room to wait for Polar and Megumi.

*Time Skip*

After a few minutes of waiting, the gang saw the elevator going up, showing that Megumi was on her way back to them. Sure enough, they saw a smiling Megumi and Polar in on the elevator platform, having succeeded on their goal in the secret level. Which Megumi said was called Totally Fly.

Where there, she ended up calming Polar down when he got nervous of the dark. Which, the level happened to be in a dark part of the jungle levels, with only fireflies illuminating the ways in front of them.

It was pretty hard, but they were able to grab another Gem, that happened to be the only thing to collect in the level.

"So what you're telling us, is that you rode Polar through the path that happened to be quite dark? I'd hate to be in that place if I was scared of the dark." Ami said.

"At least you've made it back to us." Isabella said. With Tawna, Yaya, Ami, Crash, and Coco in agreement.

Suddenly, the room grew dim, showing them that either Cortex, Brio, or Coco was about to speak to them via hologram.

Which appeared in the middle, showing the former. "My dear friends. You're all more than halfway done. But I'm sure you've all noticed that things are getting harder. The last ten Crystals will be the hardest to gather, and my- *umbhghlrgh* 'our' enemies will be sending their strongest to thwart you. So all of you should be on your guard, and I'll contact you after you complete the next Warp Room. Oh! And welcome back Megumi, it is nice to see that you're free again." He said.

"Arigatau. (Thank you.) Cortex-san." Megumi said, before Cortex's hologram vanished.

Even though she was the more polite of the Bandicoot gang, she too didn't have much love for Cortex or Brio due to their treatment of them. And if what Coco and Ami said is true, he might be planning to use the Crystals for nefarious purposes that would involve his space station and Earth.

So she felt that she shouldn't trust Cortex with the Crystals either, until his truth about trying to protect the world from this 'force' that he was talking about is legit. Otherwise, if Brio is telling the truth, then she feels that they should collect the Gems for him instead.

Although after having heard about what happened to Coco concerning the gorilla Titans, and hearing from the note that Brio sent them that those were Cortex's minions, she started to lean towards Brio's side.

Right now though, they were 'mostly' finished with the room that they were in, as Crash and Coco once again did the Crash Dance that Megumi admits, was adorable looking. (Which Isabella and Ami also thought was cute too. With the former finding Crash more cuter now after seeing it for a second time.)

After that, and after some preparations for what is to come, they all got on the platform, and was now on their way to the next room when everything turned white.

Once the whiteness faded from their vision, they saw that they were on a big square platform that was surrounded by a bunch of smaller circular ones nearby. What they noticed was that they were all golden colored with green glowing sections that looked like pieces of rings that separated in four sections.

Which they all were standing next to on the platform.

Then ended up looking at their surroundings, looking like they were in a science fiction room that had pipes in it, as well as hanging steel and rubber wires, and spot lights that also illuminated the room and their surroundings.

Then they noticed a door that was being forcibly opened by some sort of monster. Which had shivers going up their spines at what they imagined could be on the other end of the door.

Then the door was forced open, showing what looked like a muscular creature that happened to look like a mix between a Thylacine, and a Siberian Tiger, while looking like a male Tiger. Where he happened to have orange fur, and a yellow underbelly, a square jaw that happened to look like a Thylacine, mixed with a Tiger. He also happened to have black stripes that trailed down his lower back, also like a Thylacine. He wore a green spotted loin cloth, held up by a metal belt, a pair of spiked leather shoulder pads, metal bracelets, and a pair of red sneakers.

And he was easily, quite an angry adversary. "TINY SMASH BANDICOOTS! TINY TAKE CRYSTALS!" He yelled out.

"Easy there Tiny. It's our job together to do the smashing." A familiar voice said. (Familiar to Tawna that is.) As he rounded the corner of the door on the other side after it opened too. Showing who it was that spoke out to the Tiger/Thylacine hybrid known as Tiny.

None other than Koala Kong, returning from the first area that they met him in. Much to Tawna's chagrin as she thought that he would stay away from her and Crash.

"G'day mates. And Tawna. It's been awhile since our last dance in the snowy forest." Koala Kong said.

"It was? Cause it still seems to me that it has been only a minute too soon." Tawna sarcastically said, not happy that Koala Kong is about to fight and try to kill them.

Which the gang noticed. Despite Isabella and Ami getting a little distracted. "You know each other?" Megumi asked.

All while Isabella and Ami was looking at both of the Bosses, focusing on their muscles. "Sono così grandi. (They're so big.)" She thought, referring to their muscles.

"Geez. They're packing!" Ami thought.

"Unfortunately." Tawna said. "Like Pinstripe, he too was one of the minions of Cortex's that we've met during my capture by his hands. And he and Pinstripe was among Neo Cortex's minions that tried to kill Crashie. Only to obviously fail." Tawna said, wrapping her arm around Crash's neck.

Which is much to Kong's dismay as he ended up glaring at both of them. "And after that, I cut me ties with Cortex, and moved to Hollywood, where I took a major motion picture deal of 'Universal Proportions', and I was with my speech therapist to improve my diction, just so I can land a solid VO career, when Brio hired me." He said, explaining his little story to the gang. "I have gotten myself a career to live a luxurious life, and yet you still plan to stay with that Bogan?"

"Yes. And there is nothing you can do about it." Tawna said in a taunting voice. Which continued to get under Kong's skin.

"Fine! Then I'll simply find another lady to put by my side, with my strong physique and charms." He said, flexing his muscles, showing off his seemingly boastful nature and vain personality that Tawna doesn't like about him. "And that would be after we crush you!" Kong said. Before he then focused on both Ami and Isabella, causing him to get curious.

"Say, I never met any of you before. What're your names?" He asked.

"Ami"

"Isabella"

"Megumi."

"Yaya Panda!" They all said, telling him their names. Before then telling them Polar's name as he stared on, intimidated of both of them.

Which caused him to feel more curious about them. "I have to say, you all look beautiful. And, one of you looks adorable of course. Although I never seen you all before." He said.

"We were in a different section of Cortex's and Brio's castle. Before it got engulfed in flames, and burned to the ground. Thankfully, we were all saved by Brio, before we were then freed by them." Megumi said, pointing at Tawna, Crash and Coco. All of whom, were glaring determinedly at him. After all, even Coco knew he wasn't a good guy due to his past with Crash. "And O home no kotoba o arigatōgozaimasu. (Thank you for the compliment.)"

"I was never there myself! I was merely traveling the world while that was happening!" Yaya said. Telling Kong that she is not one of Cortex's creations.

"But if you think that we'd be swayed to be with you, you thought wrong." Ami said, feeling that there could be reasons why Tawna would not like him. (Other than the fact that he tried to kill her boyfriend.) Besides, he isn't really her type, regardless of his muscles. She isn't into vain people.

"Sono con lei. (I'm with her.) I admit, you're not my type either. I'm not into folks who are vain enough, to think that the world is theirs." Isabella said.

"Gomen. (Sorry.) But I feel that we're better off as friends. I do hope you'll understand." Megumi then said.

"Sorry big dude, but you're too old for me." Yaya said.

All of whom, felt that in terms of romance, Kong wasn't the guy for dating with, seeing that he looked like he was vain. (That, and Yaya wasn't into muscular guys.)

"Besides, there's someone else that I hope I'll date, once we're done with this journey. Let's just say he is cute in his own way." Isabella said.

Which had Tawna feeling interested in who this 'someone' could be, and if it's her boyfriend.

"He's so funny, so carino, (cute) and hopefully, he may be my knight in shining armor too."

Tawna was smiling, feeling that Isabella might be seeing someone that could be cute, as well as funny, and could save her if she gets recaptured by Cortex or Brio. Kinda like Crash. (Minus the looks of a model, but he didn't need them in her case.)

"Plus, even though he is goofy, he does have a good sense of humor. Enough to leave me ridendo con lui. (Laughing with him.)

Tawna couldn't help but inwardly swoon, feeling that whoever this guy is, he's sorta like Crash in a way, where he does leave her laughing at his antics and… wait a minute.

"And, above all, he would have a big heart for me." Isabella finished.

"I know, that's why he's my boyfriend." Tawna said, referring to Crash. Whom she knew, Isabella could be referring to in her little flirtatious musing.

"Oh, come spero di essere tra le sue braccia. (How I hope to be in his arms.) So strong, yet so tender." She then said, swooning.

"I know. That's why he's my boyfriend." Tawna said again.

"And his physique. He isn't muscular as either of you, but he's still got a mean three pack of steel abdominals."

"I know! That is why he's my boyfriend!" Tawna said impatiently. Much to Crash's confusion.

Which had Isabella's attention as she looked at Tawna in confusion. "Huh? Oh. Right, that is your boyfriend. Scusi. (Sorry.)" She said. "But you have to admit, he is a carino. (Cutie.) Is he free?"

"We're just gonna have to wait and see." Tawna begrudgingly said, glaring annoyed at her.

While Isabella's friends, Coco, and Yaya, looked at them with concern, (Minus both Crash and Polar, both of whom were confused.) hoping that they won't end up fighting each other for Crash.

But that had to wait for later, as Kong wasn't happy that they'd all turn him down, as he felt steaming mad. But he knew he'd better keep his head in the game instead of going berserk. "So be it then. All of you must either stop your journey here, or die! It's go time Tiny!" He then yelled out.

"YEESSS!" He yelled out. Before they then jumped on the circular platforms, while the square platform the gang was on suddenly blinked, signaling that it was about to fall.

After the adrenaline of fear went through their system, they jumped off of the platform and onto the circular platforms, where they quickly started to realize what they should be doing. Which is to hop and jump on the platforms before they get crushed by Tiny and Koala Kong.

Which they all proceeded to do as they avoided them both. After all, they may be athletic and strong by themselves, but none of them (Other than Ami. Possibly.) was as strong as Koala Kong, or Tiny Tiger.

And even if any of them was strong enough, the platforms that they were jumping on was not a good place to fight them on. Especially since they would possibly use their strength to merely push them off.

Not that it was going to stop Yaya though, as she decided to jump towards Koala Kong before engaging in Kung Fu against him. Pretty much kicking him all over his body and his muscles.

However, other than his face, it felt like she was kicking a bronze statue, due to his muscular body. And despite the pain of getting kicked in the face, Kong ended up withstanding the hits. "That the best you can do, Panda?" Kong said cockily.

After a brief moment of shock from Yaya, and when Ami tried to interfere on her behalf, she ended up getting socked across the room. It felt like a truck just rammed her as she was flying across the room. Thankfully, she got saved by Tawna, who caught her in midair. "Gotcha! Are you okay?" She asked concerned.

Especially since she happened to have a nosebleed from the hit. As well as a fist sized bruise on the right side of her face, as she looked like she had stars floating around her head. "No thanks… momma. I'll just take the Piña Colada." Yaya said, feeling out of it because of Kong's punch.

"WAAAAAHHHH!"

Then they saw Ami, who was also flying across the room when Kong sucker punched her when she briefly got distracted by Yaya's save by Tawna's hands. Thankfully, she was caught by both Isabella and Megumi as she too had to shake the stars out of her vision. All while Yaya continued to babble in Tawna's arms.

Nevertheless, she did feel okay enough to go, although Tawna had to carry her for a minute until the stars were out of her sight, as she kept on bounding away from Kong, alongside Crash and Coco as he tried to crush her under his size.

Meanwhile, Ami, Isabella, and Megumi continued to bound on the platforms to get away from Tiny. He was basically like a berserker, charging at them with no plan, no caution, no intelligence. Just rage, was in his mind, and in his eyes as he kept on chasing them on the platforms.

"TINY SMASH BANDICOOTS! TINY SHALL WIN FOR CORTEX!" He yelled out.

Much to the gang's confusion, as they wondered if Cortex actually sent that large tiger/thylacine hybrid against them, or if he's confused, and thought that Brio is Cortex. (Which considering his lack of intelligence, Brio might've tricked him into siding against Cortex by claiming he is Cortex himself.) For now though, they kept on jumping away from the Tiger, and Koala team.

Suddenly, they heard beeping, causing them to look around and then see a platform that was blinking red for a second. Then suddenly, it just dropped like a rock. (Right as Coco was about to jump there, but she was able to stop herself just in the nick of time.)

Which brought an idea to Tawna and the Gang, minus Polar, who was keeping his distance from both Tiny and Kong, and remaining by Crash's side. They can trick both Kong and Tiny into jumping to the falling platform, which could defeat them.

So they had to communicate to each other, that they should get ready to trick them into jumping when they have the opportunity. All while Tawna made sure to stay close to Crash to quietly tell him what to do against Koala Kong and Tiny. Although she too has an idea on what to do against Kong too.

And what's better, is that the platform that fell rose back up. Which is also good as they can still have breathing room in fighting against Koala Kong and Tiny. They just needed to keep on hopping on the platforms, and away from where both of them are going to bounce.

Soon, after a minute, there was some beeping, and one of the platforms had red lights near Ami's feet. And Tiny was going for her.

So she quickly hopped onto the platform that was beeping as it started to beep faster, while waiting for Tiny to make it to her, before jumping off of the platform at the nick of time as Tiny jumped her way,

…as the platform dropped.

Tiny flapped his arms like a bird's, trying to fly. "Wha wha wha? WAAAAAAAHHHHHH!" He yelled out as he dropped to the abyss.

'Now' it was just Koala Kong to take down, as he chased Tawna, who was still holding Yaya.

Whom, found another platform that was beeping, signaling to her that it too was going to drop. So she jumped onto it to make Kong try to crush her under his feet.

"Here I come bloke!" He yelled out as he tried to crush Tawna under his feet…

Only to have her dodge him, as the platform dropped under his feet. "OOOOH SON OF A DINGOOOOO!" He yelled out as he fell down too.

Which meant for the Bandicoots, that they might be defeated, and they were going to be celebrating, all while Yaya was able to recover from the punch.

Only for them to have a rude awakening when they heard roaring, causing them to turn to see that Tiny was on the platform that was now rising back up to their level. And he was still out for their blood.

"TINY BACK! TINY CRUSH AGAIN!" He proclaimed as he was followed back up by Koala Kong.

Whom was still ready to fight back too, as they both was bounding on the platforms again.

It was minutes of their bounding, during which, there was some close calls. Like when Isabella and Coco almost lost their balance on one of the platforms so that they won't fall off. All while Kong was headed towards them as they tried to regain her balance.

Thankfully, they jumped to another platform that was to their diagonal sides, and barely got to them as they had to pull themselves up. Now they kept on jumping on the platforms, and away from Kong and Tiny.

Which wasn't too hard, since they were muscular, which had them becoming slow in jumping around due to their top heavy strength. (Not to say that their legs weren't strong, otherwise they'd break like glass under their weight.) Which provided enough seconds for the Bandicoots, (And Panda and Polar bear.) to get out of their way before they could crush them, or clobber them.

But they were not slow either, as it took them under ten seconds to jump to the fifth platform in their path. So the gang had only some breathing room against both of them.

"Come back 'ere! There's no fun in chasin ya if I'll neva catch ya." Kong said.

"WHAT KONG SAID! COME TO TINY!" Tiny yelled out.

The gang ignored their demands as they kept on jumping away from them. Until they heard beeping. Which they knew what to do again.

They lured Kong to the next platform that was beeping, ready to trick him again into falling again, before Tiny would go next.

They just hoped that Kong would be stupid enough to get tricked into going onto the beeping platform again.

Thankfully, Yaya had an idea. "Hey Kong! You're uglier than a slug!" "Even a bulldog can outdo you in a beauty contest!" Were the insults that she used to see if they'll provoke him.

"I'M NOT UGLY!" He yelled out enraged, trying to clobber Yaya as he chased her.

Right as she wanted, as she got onto the platform that was beeping faster, before hopping off as Kong jumped to where she was.

"NOT AGAAAAIN!" He yelled out as he fell down.

Which so far, left Tiny as the only one to let drop, and hope that he won't rise back up again. So Crash and Coco proceeded to lure Tiny to another platform that started to beep when the one Kong was on dropped.

Thankfully, Tiny was also not the brightest bulb in the shed, as he too plummeted into the bottom. "AAAAAAAHHHHHH!" He roared out.

Unfortunately, he and Kong rose back up on the platforms, and they still seemed to be ready to fight once again. The gang hoped that this would be the last round as they had to hop away again.

Thankfully, they quickly heard beeping from some platforms that they were jumping near, so they felt that Tiny could be stupid enough to fall for it a third time, and they hoped that it would be the last phase of the fight.

So they proceeded to once again, trick Tiny into falling onto the platform that was glowing red. "Tiny! Watch out for the red glowing platforms! They're the ones that drops!" Kong warned Tiny.

Who, despite his unintelligence, obeyed as he got cautious of his surroundings while making sure that he continues his pursuit of the Bandicoots. All while Koala Kong was now close by Tiny as they both were now jumping around, looking out for any red beeping platforms.

The Gang was now in trouble as they were fighting against both of them, and they seem to be onto them for their tricks.

Not even Yaya's insults could get the rise that they needed out of Koala Kong, as he ignored the insults as he just kept on chasing after Crash and Tawna. While Tiny kept on chasing the rest of the gang.

Suddenly after a few minutes, there was beeping, and one of the platforms that beeped, was the one that Tiny was jumping towards. And he was on the verge of jumping off of the Platform, just seconds before it drops. Which is why, they all had to have an idea to use against Tiny to make sure that he stays on the platform when it falls.

Tawna tried to think of one as she kept on jumping away from Kong, when Kong suddenly bounded faster than last time. Which was fast enough to catch up to Tawna, as she tried to jump away.

"TAWNA, BEHIND YOU!" Coco proclaimed.

As she tried to turn though, Kong made it to her platform to try to clobber her, only for him to accidentally launch her upwards into the air as she tried to jump to another platform to her top right.

"WHOAAAAA!" Tawna yelled as she sailed through the air, as she was sent flying into the direction of Tiny. Something that Kong didn't really plan to do, but he felt that it'll do since his teammate would do the honors and clobber her for him.

Unfortunately for Kong, Tawna had a quick idea after remembering what this certain 'Italian Plumber' also does. So she ended up doing a front flip as her body sailed towards Tiny as he was ready to jump, when he noticed Tawna headed towards him.

Then in his view, everything went black when he felt something landing on the upper part of his face. Which was enough to stun him as he stood in place for a bit.

While in the gang's view, they were gawking at what they saw happen. (Minus Polar again, who was confused.) Which was Tawna, proceeding to butt stomp Tiny in his face. Which was enough to stun him as he stood on the platform that was beeping below him. Yet he was able to stand in place due to his strength.

Even Kong was looking on in shock and stunned surprise at what just happened. He didn't see that butt stomp move coming.

Soon, the platform beeped faster, as Tawna quickly jumped off of Tiny, and onto the platfrom that Crash was on after grabbing onto the ledge, as Tiny fell with the platform he was on as he roared during his fall. While Tawna was then pulled up by Crash, who was then given a kiss from Tawna. (While Isabella looked on in envy.)

Now it was just Koala Kong left.

Who was now on the square platform that was just floating back upwards, as all of the circular platforms was now beeping, which they all noticed as they now scrambled their way onto the square platform that Koala Kong was on. They felt that they were going to fall and die here.

Thankfully though, they made it to the square platform in the nick of time. Now it seemed that they have to fight Kong up close in the platform that looked like a boxing ring. (Without the ropes that is.)

"If Tiny was still 'ere, this would've been a piece of cake to kill you all with our might!" Kong said, flexing his muscles. "If you all wanna live, then hand 'em ova, or I'll crush you all with me bare hands." He then said, feeling confident that he could take down the entire gang.

Ami though, begged to differ, as she stepped forward and got into a boxer's stance. "If you wanna kill us, you'll have to go through me."

Kong felt like laughing, yet he felt like tipping his hat to her for being gutsy enough to challenge him. "So be it then. It is go time!" He challenged as he got ready to fight her.

Ami though, was quite a good fighter in her own right as she was able to dodge and weave around his punches, while giving her own to his face, regardless of his attempts to clobber her with his own fists.

Even though she did have some close calls, as she nearly suffered a bunny punch from him, but she dodge in the nick of time. Even though the gang cringed when they saw that his fist was briefly covered in flames.

Despite his attempts, Ami was still too fast for him. And he felt fatigue due to his jumping around on the platforms alongside Tiny.

And after a few minutes, he was now at Ami's mercy as she was able to hit him towards the edge.

"This is for the sucker punch!" Ami spoke out as she gave Kong the right hook.

Which was the knockout blow, as he took the blow to his cheek, before wobbling and leaning around, before he then fell down, following Tiny into the seemingly bottomless pit below.

Now it was just the gang that was in the room, as they proceeded to celebrate Tiny and Kong's defeat, and their survival, as they jumped around on the square platform, while hugging each other.

Even Tawna and Isabella was shaking their hands for a job well done in defeating both of them. Although they silently glared, with Isabella feeling determined to put Crash into her bosom, while Tawna was determined to remain by Crash's side, by the time their journey ends.

Pretty soon, they were now teleported back to the Warp Room, ready to run again.

Little did they know though, there was a figure around the corner who watched the whole battle. And she was giggling at the sight of the aftermath of the battle's end.

"Hehehehehehehehe! That was so fun. And they were so cool." She mused in her giggling.

She then scanned around the room as the platforms got back up to her level, showing that an unconscious Tiny and Kong was laying on them. Then she proceeded to grapple them with her 'grappling hook hands' as she then yanked them to her direction, before retracting them back to the doorway, and the safe ground that she stood on.

"It's too bad though. If they weren't Brio's foes, they would've been my friends. Especially that little Bandicutie." She then mused as she was dragging both of them back to Brio's sanctuary.

Chapter Text

The Bandicoot Gang was now back on the platform as it ascended to the next room of the warp room. It was getting a little crowded on there, but none of them were getting close to falling.

By the time they got to the next room, they saw that the room they were now in, was sorta like a mining tunnel. The portals around them was even designed with some doorways that lead to the mining tunnel paths around them. Which Isabella and Tawna felt was an improvement over the Sewer-like design for the previous Warp Room. (Which let's face it, is what they find as common ground between them.)

Not that it's saying too much, since the mining tunnels can also get dirty, what with the fact that they're underground tunnels. Which means that they're surrounded by dirt, although they see rock walls too. And that's not getting into whatever else there could be inside the tunnels, as well as what they could smell and breathe. (Which they hope, isn't coal.)

But the thing that matters, is that they're in the next room, and they're able to grab more Crystals from the parts of the world that the Portals send them to, and hopefully they're able to grab the Gems too so that they'll help Brio too if he isn't the villain by the end of their journey.

"Okay guys, we're splitting up here. And if we meet Liz in one of these portals, make sure she's free from Brio, and let's also make sure she doesn't die." Coco said.

"Right." Tawna said.

"Oakee dokee." Crash gibbered.

"Don't need to tell me twice." Ami said.

"lo farò. (I'll do it.)" Isabella said.

"Anata no sukina yō ni. (As you wish.)" Megumi said.

Soon, they decided to go into pairs for going into the courses in the Warp room. With Crash, Aku Aku, and Coco going to Hangin Out, Isabella, Tawna, and Ami would go to Diggin it, (Yet another pun name that may involve digging. Leaving some of the gang chuckling.) while Yaya, Megumi, and Polar would go to Cold Hard Crash. All of whom had Coco making the choice.

Which is much for Tawna's relief, since she'd be determined to stay close to Crash if he gets paired with Isabella in one of the levels. While Isabella was dismayed, since she isn't going to be by Crash's side, as she'd have plenty of ways to seduce him into her bosom. Plus, she has to contend with his girlfriend breathing down her neck.

They proceeded into the portals once they were ready.

"Git me outta this contraption and face me like a man! Don't ya know who yer dealin with, ya Varmint?!" A figure with a southern accent, said as she was tied to a chair.

"Oh y-yes. I know. But I don't care about that." Brio's voice said. "W-what I do know, is that you're going to be just the minion I need to make sure that those B-Bandicoots don't succeed." He said, having a mind control helmet being lowered onto the mutant girl.

"Why me though? Ah'm just a racer and mascot for an amusement park! What makes me more special than a Bandicoot?"

"Why you're athletic for starters." Brio said. "Plus, despite the other Bandicoot minions of mine being up for the task, they still lost to those other wild Bandicoots, and now they're free and working for them now. I have only one B-Bandicoot minion left because of that." Brio said.

"Now wait just a gosh darn minute! You said I was not a great minion, and ya kicked me outta yer team didn't ya?!"

"Yes. But this h-h-helmet would give you an upgrade, which hopefully will help you in d-defeating them, and r-redeeming yourself. P-plus, the two main Bandicoots are in one of the Sewer places as we speak, and I know that you'd have an advantage in your turf."

"Ah'm an Opossum you stuttering doofus! Not a rat! And last time I checked, Opossum's don't live in Sewers!" She said offended and exasperated.

"But you're gonna b-be an exception, at least until you k-k-kill them both. Then kill the others, minus the ones that used to be my minions, as I still have use for them." Brio responded. "Now hold still, I need t-to u-upgrade you." He then said.

He then lowered the helmet onto the struggling Opossum girl's head as he cackled for a bit. It seemed that he was about to get himself another minion, regardless of her pleas, and raving.

"Another Sewer course. Thank goodness Isabella and Tawna isn't here." Coco casually said as they ran through the pipes of the sewer.

Not that Coco was as willing to be in a sewer herself, she also finds sewers to be pretty gross too. But compared to Isabella, both Coco and Tawna would be willing to race through the sewer, even if it includes getting their fur dirty, if it means that they'll save the world, or rescue their friends. (Although Tawna would be complaining about it throughout their time, as well as wanting a shower after that.)

Now though, she was running with Crash through the sewer. And she was happy to be with him since she'd be able to protect him from danger, which could happen throughout the Hangin Out Level.

Not only that, but they were still together again as they ran through the Sewer again, knocking away the bad guys in the sewer together as they were grinning throughout, like they were running to a candy store.

They then spun away some more of the brush bots that got in their way. As well as some Robot Minions that works for Brio as they tried to burn them both. Only to fail when they got spun away along with the Bots when their flamethrowers had to be relit.

They also used some floating platforms that was on the water that the Eel was in, making sure to keep out of the water when the Eel electrifies the water. Among other hazards that they dealt with before, like the Rolling barrels in the pipes sections of the sewer.

Even though there was a cleaning bot that came out of nowhere as they planned on how to avoid the barrel in the pipes. Which they barely avoided with Crash spinning the bot away while it tried to hurt Coco.

"Thanks you big brother. I always appreciate it when you save me." Coco said smiling at him, thankful for his save.

"No brwobwem Siths." He said, returning his own smile. Before they proceeded onwards through the sewer while avoiding more of the rolling Barrels that tried to squish them.

Only to fail as they both kept on running and sliding around them while remaining unscathed due to their speed. "Wow, we're on a 'roll' in here!" She said, making a pun.

Cue another rimshot as both Aku Aku and Crash merely stared on. Before Crash ended up laughing that time, having now got the joke after looking at the rolling barrels.

Before they proceeded onwards through the sewer past the barrels, and the cleaning bots without any trouble, considering that they already dealt with those hazards before. Until soon, they saw a hole in the middle of the room, along with the other boxes to break.

After breaking the boxes, they went down the hole, feeling that that's the only way forward through the level.

Which is where they landed on the floor, and saw up ahead that there is graspable fences that they know they're gonna be hanging from, hence the name Hangin Out. (And which helped differentiate this from the other sewer levels.) Which floated above some really hot glowing lava that headed up the pipes that was closest to the hot lava.

Both Bandicoots felt themselves getting a bit sweaty from the hot atmosphere of the room they were in.

"Well Crash, it's time to exorcise our arms, cause we're going to move our way across that section. Ready Bro?" Coco asked.

Crash nodded, despite having not hung from those fence platforms before. At least, in his previous adventure where he rescued Tawna.

On the count of three, they grabbed the fence platforms, then used them like monkey bars from a playground as they moved their way across the linked platforms, while avoiding the floating spiked bots that loitered the section. Feeling that they could impale them if they touch the Bandicoots, or make them fall into the lava.

So they had to be careful of them as they kept on moving throughout the section till they reach the other end of it. All while they destroyed the crates that for some reason, happened to be sticking to the fence that they were hanging onto. Almost as if they were either floating there, or was stuck by some sort of strong glue there. Either way, they knew it didn't matter since they just destroyed them along the way to the other end.

Which they reached, before having to face more of the spiked bots in their way as they moved up and down. Coco and Crash knew how to dodge them though, as they jumped over the spiked bots, broke more of the boxes that had TNT crates among them, which had them retreating a bit to steer clear of the explosions from the unspun TNT, before they then continued onwards to another section of the sewer where they had to use the fence as monkey bars again to the other side while avoiding more of those spike bots.

Including the fast ones that made it difficult, but they were patient enough to get the timing of their moving right so that they'll be able to barely miss the fast moving bot and keep going onwards.

Then on the other end, and after going through another pipe full of spike bots, they got to the room where they found a small wall of boxes that they broke down, before seeing another hole in the sewer ground. Which they jumped into, feeling that they could go into the more cooler section of the Sewer.

Sure enough, they felt themselves landing in an ankle deep puddle of water, that was cooler than the lava in the last section of the sewer. And they also saw that there was a glowing Crystal in the room with them.

Much to Crash's delight as he got the Crystal, before he and Coco hugged each other on their success in finding it. Even if Coco was reluctant to grab it along with more, but she isn't stopping her friends, or brother, and big sister from doing that. She feels that she has her own plans for them.

They then proceeded onwards through the pipe. After they went through a bonus stage for more boxes to break.

Where they ended up meeting more of the spike rats, which they jumped on, making sure to take them down. Before jumping over a line of Nitro boxes.

Then in a new section after the pipe, they took down another rat, then used a detonation box to destroy the rest of the Nitro boxes, knowing that they might've got the box Gem as a result of that.

Soon enough, they got out of the level after getting the Gem. While little did they know, a figure was watching them leave as she ended up talking on her phone.

"WHAT!? They got away?! I was too late?!" The voice of Brio's on the other end asked in shock at what he was told.

"Fraid so. And right before your weapon was ready too." She said. "So it seems that we're gonna have to redeploy your weapon somewhere else."

"Oh fine then, search for the pair in the next part of the world, or save her for the next room's portals, then deploy our weapon there. Meanwhile, I'm gonna send my last minion to where one of them should be alone, as they search for one of the other Gems from my secret world." Brio said.

The figure ended up smiling at that, feeling like she was going to see a fun one on one battle like in the westerns and samurai flicks as she teleported out of there.

Meanwhile…

In Diggin It, Tawna, alongside Ami and Isabella was jogging through the jungles as they also ran and jumped around to avoid some of the hazards. While Aku Aku's spirit followed too.

Like the similar carnivorous plants that they came across, only these ones were spitting out some sort of acidic balls at them. Which they were able to dodge to get close to them, only for them to cower behind their thorny vines and leaves. Which they bounced on, and was only able to be taken down via body slam, or butt stomp. Which Tawna ended up doing to them alongside Isabella.

There was also some moving Tiki's that seem to be built in three sections, because each section of them turns around as they move, like some sort of Rubik's Cube on those three sections that always solves themselves to make a different colored and shaped Tiki that tries to block their path. And they were indestructible, so no spinning or kicking could move them aside, or knock them over.

Thankfully, the trio was able to move around them without too much trouble.

And there was also some mines that they stepped around, feeling that they could blow them up if they're not careful.

There was also some familiar speed boosts that pushes them forwards when they step on them. Which they saw back in the other boulder levels, and was useful because they helped them outrun the boulders, or the Goar Titan that they were chased by. Here though, their only use was for breaking the rows of boxes, which they could break on their own… and that's it.

Other than those hazards though, there was also the familiar ones, like the bottomless pits like in the last levels.

And throughout their journey through Diggin It, Ami and Aku Aku felt that they were in a tense moment like in the tv shows where a stand off was happening before a shootout.

Why is it?

"Crashie doesn't need some brainless Italian model for a replacement for me. I know he loves me for more than my looks." Tawna said.

"I can assure you that I'm not brainless! I happen to know my way around a kart after all, and I happen to be a great Gymnast." Isabella said annoyed.

"So why is it that you were chosen by Brio then? For your slimy Femme Fatale cunning too?" Tawna said.

"No. More that I can be flexible enough to kick plenty of Coda. (Tail.) And it could've included yours if you were still with Crashie. Which I reckon, could've ended in me in his arms if I succeeded. And if they freed me." Isabella responded casually on the last part.

"Right. Like my Crashie is ending up with some poor Italian lady's answer to that blonde hero from that bad girl Comic." Tawna said, remembering a certain comic that starred the titular female Protagonist named Barb.

"Oooh, L'ironia di quella frase. (The irony of that sentence.) Look who's talking." Isabella said smiling, noting the similarities between the same character from the comic that she also read, and Tawna.

Ami cringed because Isabella and Tawna was flinging insults towards each other, like it was a pie throwing contest. And Ami was cringing at the signs, that their insults could end in fisticuffs. While Aku Aku was hoping that the same won't end up happening between Isabella and Tawna.

"Geez. I know Crash is a cutie, but even I'm not insane enough to go for him even if Tawna has him. What's gotten into Isabella?" Ami thought.

It was a relief that they still are working together though, as they continued onwards through the Jungle. Defeating any enemy in their path. And breaking every box that they can see and reach. Including the ones in the Bonus room. (Minus the Nitro boxes, that they know could be detonated.)

Then they came across another familiar section, being the fork in the road, splitting into two paths. Only there was also a death route platform to the left. Which Tawna feels could lead to another death route Gem.

"Okay girls, it seems that one of us is going to take on the route, while the rest of us takes the path to the right. Who will it be?" Tawna asked.

"I could do it." Ami said, hoping that her being in the death route could at least put Isabella's arguments with Tawna at bay, and have her feeling too concerned and hopeful of her survival to continue to argue with her on who gets to keep Crash in their bosom once the journey ends. Besides, she'd rather do it herself, than Isabella.

Isabella though, begged to differ. "No wait! Why not you? I know that Crash would be even more attracted to someone like you, for having the guts to put themselves in danger, and living. Besides, I see that there are Nitro's there, and I guess you're more familiar than me with them." She said. Even though she was feeling like cringing at the vote that she did.

Sure she voted for Tawna, but she didn't want to lose their chance for a new home if Tawna were to die, causing Coco and Crash to be hating her guts for inadvertently sending Tawna to her death. So she did hiddenly hope for Tawna to make it past the death route. Even if a part of her feels that she could help Crash move on from Tawna, and end up with herself as his next girlfriend. While becoming like a mother figure for Coco after this.

Likewise, Tawna did not like Isabella at the moment, but she wasn't hating her enough to send her to her own death, considering that she did seem to be a nice lady, outside of her attempts to get Crash into her bosom. So she decided to take the dare, just so Isabella won't die to the death route. Although she's confident that Isabella would totally make it past the death route herself if she was put in her place. Albiet with plenty of bruises to teach her a lesson with, which is not to mess with her relationship with Crash.

"Fine then. Be careful of whatever comes from that other path, garlic breath." Tawna said, feeling that she could be able to survive the death route as she got on the platform. Now she was being followed by Aku Aku's spirit that split in two to help Tawna too.

"Blech! Non mi piace nemmeno l'aglio! (I don't even like garlic!) I prefer the spaghetti, that's more my kind of food." Isabella ranted a bit as Tawna was moving to the left path.

Where right off the bat, she saw a bunch of Nitro boxes that blocked her path. Yet having some gaps that she can shimmy around if she's careful enough. And she was also able to jump over them too. She just had to make sure that none of them jumps too, and touches her in midair.

Which thankfully, none of them did when she jumped over a pair on the left, feeling that they're the easiest ones to miss.

Now she had boxes to break, along with the acid spitting plants to butt stomp on after clearing the pillar of land obstacle that the plant tried to kill her with.

Then she ran ahead while avoiding a beehive that was on the ground for some reason. She knew what lurked inside there, so she treaded with caution as she ran ahead, where she had to face off against the plant.

Only to then hear some buzzing that was coming her way from behind. She was quite sure what it was, but she still turned to see what it was.

A large bee was coming her way, and it looked angry. Regardless of her avoiding the beehive, and not even touching it.

"GYAAAAAAAA!" She screamed out, having gotten stung by a bee once during her time with Crash and Coco, shortly after their house was finished. And it hurt like hell on her nose. And it swelled up to a notable degree after some time passed. Which was much to her dismay.

Sure she isn't as vain as Koala Kong, or even, stars and moon forbid, Pinstripe himself, but she liked her own beauty for attracting the cute folks, like Crash. And she thought that the large nose looked ugly and out of place on her face. Not that Crash cared, as he was merely relieved that she wasn't gonna die of a bee sting when her swelling went down. But she never forgot about how much it hurt to get stung by an angry bee, let alone a swarm of them.

Which had her getting nervous of bees because of it. And the large one that was coming her way was a reminder of that little fear.

As a result, she ran faster away from the hive and past the Plant, hoping that she'd lose the bee, even though the bee was fast enough to gain on her.

But luckily for her, the bee lost interest and went back to the hive. Much to her relief as she continued onwards past the other plant.

But there was another hive in her path, and she knew that she has another large bee that would chase her, so she braced herself for running away from the bee, and getting past the plant before it could spit its acid at her, or eat her. Then she bolted ahead as she jumped on then off the pillar of land, where she heard the familiar buzzing, making her run away faster.

In her haste though, she took an explosion of the acid spit that the plant spat at her, which hurts, but Aku Aku's spirit protected her. Which helped as she continued to run, but the bee was gaining fast. It seemed that she's going to get stung by the bee, which thankfully, she'd at least be protected by Aku Aku's spirit from once the bee gets to her.

Then she ended up spinning away the bee as she broke the boxes with her spin move. Which she was able to notice as she looked around for the bee after she spun the boxes.

"Wha? What happened? Where'd it go?" She asked, having not noticed her spinning the bee away.

"Hmm. It seems that the bee can be spun away too. What a relief. It seems that making that bee grow bigger had its downsides." Aku Aku said.

Tawna was relieved to hear that. "Thank goodness. Now I have nothing to worry about if I meet another big bee." She said, confidently. Knowing that the larger bees would be beaten by her spinning that Crash taught her.

At least if they were large bees. The smaller ones though, she's still gonna keep her distance from, considering their numbers.

Now though, she had only the plants to worry about as she ran through the path, knowing that there could be a Gem that she'll come across.

Sure enough, there was indeed a Gem in her path, which she proceeded to grab. Now she had to get to the end of the death route, which she knows would be where the path she's in would reunite to the main path that she and her gang was taking.

So she dodged another plant to continue onwards to where the path would join back up with the main path.

Which came sooner than she expected as she saw an exit platform to go back to the main path. Which she took to get back to that path, where she'll wait for Ami and Isabella.

As she waited though, she had a feeling that she might not be alone in the jungle, with Ami and Isabella. It was that feeling that had her looking around.

That feeling, that she was being watched.

"If that's that last Mutant Bandicoot that we're going to free, then I hope she'll catch me at a bad time, when Isabella and Ami would catch up with me." Tawna thought.

Then he looked around to then see Ami and Isabella running to her, both covered in mud as they ran around. Ami was merely walking around casually, while Isabella was fuming as she continued to brush the drying mud off of her suit and her hair.

"In case you're wondering where the mud came from, let's just say, we had no choice but to dive underground." Ami said.

"Let me guess. Some large bees were chasing you both?" Tawna asked.

"Lucky guess. How'd you know?" Isabella said, deadpan.

"There was some bees in the death route too. Thankfully, I was able to spin them away. Were any of you able to do that?"

"Bells was able to do that. But we mostly ran and dug under the mud to ward them off. Which explains the dirt on our fur and clothes." Ami said casually.

"Ick, schifoso. (Disgusting.) At least it isn't the sewer though. And at least we'll be saving the world too, otherwise, I'd demand dry cleaning immediately after this." Isabella said.

Much to Tawna's amusement. As it showed some contrast between herself and Isabella. Considering that Tawna is more willing to get dirty if she'd save the world in the end. Even though she and Isabella can agree on one thing, and it's that they both don't like sewers. And they hope that they aren't going into any more of those levels. Even though those sewers were quite clean.

For now though, once Isabella and Ami got the now dried mud off their fur, and clothing, they proceeded onwards through the level's path, taking out the rest of the plants that got in their way, and breaking every box that also got in their way.

Then they came across a Plant that was on a pillar of land. Which was not too far from the exit chambers. Tawna proceeded to jump to the pillar as the plant cowered, before butt stomping the plant to make the way to the exit safer.

Then suddenly, she got teleported. Much to the initial surprise of Isabella and Ami's. Before they then shrugged and moved onwards. After all, they knew it was a hidden warp spot that they used before. And they knew that she'd be sent to the warp room. Which is a safe haven for them all. Then, she'd grab a Gem from a secret Level.

Or, she'd grab the required Gem from Road to Ruin. Either way, they're gaining another Gem with her help.

Although, Ami felt that Tawna could be in danger.

When she found herself back in the secret warp room for a second time, she looked around at the portals, seeing at least three active portals from the last visits, and one inactive portal, that she knows she has yet to open.

Then she got to the portal behind her, which was the Road to Ruin level. "Here you are. Now that Gem is mine." She said to herself as she entered the level portal.

Not knowing that she's now being followed by the figure that was teleported to that place once she got in the level.

Once in the level, Tawna found herself in a different area that begins the path to Road to Ruin. Which she took, while noticing the idols that was turning where she ran. And she had to admit, it was giving her the creeps.

But she ignored the creepy idols that was looking at her as she jumped on the pillars to the open mouthed cave where she saw a pile of boxes. Which she spun away in preparation for spinning the rest out in a glorious display of box destruction.

Only to then see a TNT among them.

Which had her gasping as she brought her box destroying to a halt. "Whoa! That could've blew me to bits if I kept going!" Tawna said out loud. She was relieved that she saw the TNT before spinning though.

Now she just jumped on the boxes and the TNT before retreating a safe distance away from it, before it then blew up the rest of the boxes. Now she was on her way to the rest of the boxes for that box Gem.

*BANG*

Or she was, until the other side of the open mouth figure got closed off by a sudden rocky gate that blocked her path. Which had her gasping again as she was relieved that it didn't crush her before she could even jump.

Then she heard another bang as she noticed that the entrance she took also got sealed off by a rocky gate, causing her to turn to see that indeed, the entrance was blocked too as she was trapped inside the large idol.

And to make matters worse, she then saw that there was another Bandicoot Mutant with her. Who happened to be Liz herself as she was growling at her, intending to tear her to shreds. Which had Tawna feeling scared at the sight.

And yet she was also happy. Since that means that's the last Bandicoot Mutant that she's going to face off against, and free from Brio, to give back to her friends. Thus, making sure that they're all reunited, and able to be free to live on Wumpa Island with them.

Right now, she just got to get that helmet off of her.

"Alright Elizabeth, it's time to set you free from Brio." She said, ready to fight.

The Mutant Bandicoot merely frowned at that in response. "It's Liz." She said angrily, showing her British accent with a slight echo. Only slightly surprising Tawna, since she heard the other Mutant Bandicoot speak before, so she kinda expected her to do that.

Then she started the battle with a pouncing motion. Which Tawna barely dove out of the way of, before trying out her spinning. Only for Liz to jump back and show her quickness and her acrobatics in the cage match with some jumping motions. With Front flips, and Back flips being done, she basically showed herself off as a ninja Bandicoot. And probably the most dangerous of Brio's minions.

It seemed that Brio was saving his best for last. And Tawna was now bracing herself for what might be a fight for her life. One that she hopes she'll walk out of alive, and hopefully, so will Liz.

Liz then proceeded to throw a quick jab towards Tawna, which connected with her abs. It hurt, but Tawna dealt with the pain. Besides, if it was Kong that did that, it'd hurt worse than that.

Tawna then responded with her own quick jab to her jaw, in hopes that despite her mind controlled mind, she'd still get knocked unconscious if hit hard enough.

Whether that would be the case or not, it wasn't happening right now, as even though Liz was stunned from the blow, she wasn't knocked out yet as she made a roundhouse kick regardless of her stun.

Tawna was able to barely dodge the roundhouse kick as she ducked below it, feeling the wind of her kick blowing on her hair, she felt that she'd get knocked out herself if Liz was able to connect the kick.

So she stayed on her toes as she continued the fight against her, dodging and weaving through her jabs as she tried to strike back herself. Which she was able to a few times.

And there was some successful punches and kicks that Tawna did, but none of them brought her any closer to knocking Liz out, or getting that helmet off of her head. So she had to keep on going with her fight against Liz. Who was able to counter with her own, which gave her some bruises on her.

She knew that trying to tell her to snap out of her mind control helmet would be useless, since the helmet could be too strong for her to withstand long enough to get that helmet off.

"Why is Brio ordering you to kill me, Elizabeth?" Tawna said, hoping to taunt her with the name to see if she'll make a mistake in her anger.

"It's still Liz!" She said growling, before swiping at her with her next kick. Which Tawna was able to barely dodge. The cage match was not spacious, so she had to keep on dodging, and avoid getting driven into a corner.

Luckily, Liz wasn't trying to do that for some reason, as she continued to get taunted by Tawna, who continued to dodge her attacks.

She was then able to parry her haymaker, then gave her an uppercut that left her on the ground, but not out of the fight yet. But it was one hell of a blow that gave Tawna an advantage.

It seemed that Tawna found her skill in fighting, being that she can make killer counterattacks when given the opportunity. Sorta like that familiar Hong Kong martial arts actor from that movie about kung fu fighting on an Island.

She still has a ways to go, to match that guy in that martial art known as Jeet Kune Do.

Liz though, was not out of the cage match, as she was able to give Tawna her swipes. Even directly cutting her on her abs.

Which could've hurt badly, if not for Aku Aku's sprit's surprise appearance to heal her cuts on her abs. As well as her bruises. "Don't worry my eldest child! I'm here now!" His spirit said to Tawna.

"I'm not a little girl anymore Aku Aku." She said, feeling that she shouldn't be treated too much like one of Aku Aku's young kids that he's never had. (Or maybe he had some, before becoming that magic mask? Or was created that way from the start? She doesn't know.)

Nevertheless, she was happy to have his help there, as she continued her battle against Liz, continuing to parry her punches and striking back to her head, feeling that she can knock off the helmet from her if she was lucky.

Even though, by the end of her conflict with Liz, despite taking some more scratches herself. Tawna ended up making her own roundhouse kick, which was able to connect with Liz's head. Which was able to 'knock her out', but didn't send her helmet falling off of her as she tumbled onto the floor with a bang. Which was much to Tawna's relief, since it the area inside the cage wasn't spacious. So she was relieved that she was able to win the cage match.

Then she saw that the rocky gates ended up falling off, leaving her free to continue onwards through Road to Ruin. Which should also mean that her journey for the box Gem was starting off good, despite her scratches from Liz's fight.

Speaking of which.

*GRA-* *RRROOOAAARRR*

Tawna was startled at what she heard as she looked behind her too see what made the noise.

Which was Liz, now back up and ready to go again, only to be held back by someone in a full nelson.

"Now Tawna! Get the helmet off! Quickly!" Ami's voice sounded, telling Tawna that Ami was holding Liz back to prevent her from tearing Tawna limb from limb.

Tawna quickly obeyed, as she dashed to Liz, and despite having her swiping at her, as well as Isabella's presence too as she too was near Liz, she was able to get to the helmet. "Time to be normal again Liz." Tawna said, putting her hands on the Helmet alongside Isabella.

Liz struggled mightily for a bit as Ami strained to hold her. But both Bandicoots were able to get the helmet off, showing the rest of Liz's raven black hair and her blank eye colors, before she too ended up roaring in pain as she was changing back to normal, now shrinking around the female Bandicoot's size as she passed out again. Showing that she was almost as tall as Tawna herself, (Showing that Isabella was the tallest of the four Bandicoots.) while her bust was as big as her's and Ami's.

Ami gently laid Liz down on the ground now as Tawna didn't think she'd be joined by both of them. "How did you guys get to me?"

"We took the disc elevator back down into the basement when I felt that you could be in danger." Ami responded. "Guess I was right, since Liz ambushed you in this cave when you were getting the box Gem. Thank goodness we were on time before she could pounce you and probably throw you to your doom."

Tawna was pretty surprised that the disc elevator could go down too. She had some thoughts that it was only a one way elevator that only goes up.

Guess she was proven wrong.

"But why would Brio send her here to kill me even though I was going to give him the Gem?" Tawna asked exasperated.

"I'm guessing he was going to have Liz doing that for you if she was able to end you." Isabella said.

"Thank goodness that she failed on that part." Ami said.

"Well, thank you both." Tawna said, shaking hands with Ami and Isabella. Even though the latter was still making hidden glares towards her, which she returned with her own. They were still fighting for Crash after all.

Then after some time passed, they saw that Liz came too. "Oh blimey. I'm keeping out of some pubs for awhile. My head hurts." Liz said, getting back up. Then she looked at her surroundings. "Whuh? This isn't a party. Where am- wait a tic, Ami?! Isabella?! Is it really you?!" She said out of shock.

"Nice to meet ya too Liz! We're so glad to meet you as you are now!" Ami said as she and Isabella hugged her. Which she returned with her own out of happiness to see them again.

As was Liz as she felt tears leaking out of her eyes as she hugged them. She was happy to be out of the helmet, and free like Ami and Isabella was. "I can't believe it. I thought that we'd be trapped in our helmets forever. And it'd be boring to work for a scientist like Brio forever." Liz said. "And who're you?" She asked Tawna.

"My name is Tawna. And you must be Liz, the British Bandicoot that Ami and Isabella told me about?" Tawna said.

"You bet your bottom dollar I am. And I prefer to be called that. Only Megumi and Bells can call me Elizabeth." She said. Much to Tawna's confusion. Which Liz could sense. "And if you're expecting me to be a more proper lady, cause I'm British, you are mistaken. I am a more wild sort of British lady! ROCK AND ROLL IS MY JAM!" She then said in excitement as she played some air guitar, as if to prove her point about herself.

Which Ami joined in while Tawna was slightly surprised that Liz happened to be living proof, that the British aren't as prim and proper as she thought. Not that Isabella was surprised, having stayed with her back before they were made to wear the helmets that Brio made them wear.

"Well… thanks for the info? But let's cut to the chase. You're free too." Tawna said smiling once Liz was done with her air guitaring. "Which means that all of you have been freed from Brio. And alive too, which is better."

"Wait! Hold on! You mean, Megumi is free too?! That's bloody brilliant!" She said excitedly as she jumped and hugged Tawna next, thankful that she and her friends are free from the helmets, and now out of Brio's grasp on them.

Which means that Tawna's, Crash's, and Coco's secondary quest has ended. Now it's just their primary one that needs to be done.

"So that means, all of us are free. Thanks a bunch Tawna. Now, what're we doing here now?" Liz asked once she finished her hug on Tawna.

"Collecting the Gem for starters." Tawna said, before explaining to Liz about the journey that she was on with Crash, which involved Coco joining in, then them meeting Isabella, before moving onwards through the portals to gather the Crystals for Cortex, and the Gems for Brio, while also freeing Ami, then Megumi during that time. Then the the current quest that she was doing, leading to this moment.

All while they ended up continuing onwards through Road to Ruin, making sure to break every box that was in their path now that they are able to break all of the boxes in Road to Ruin, to get the Box Gem.

"So what you mean is, that you're getting the Crystals for Cortex, yet you're getting the Gems for Brio, and one of them are the villains of this journey that you're on with your friends, and you're all going to find out at the end when you gather them all, and while you're at it, you and your boyfriend, and your little sister figure freed us too? And now we're all going to get them all to see if Brio or Cortex are the villains, all while saving the planet?" Liz asked, following Tawna and her friends.

"Yep. That's the gist of it." Tawna said. "You planning to join in? Like your friends did?"

"Might as well. After all, if it means that Earth would be saved, and we'd be free, then count me in." Liz said smiling as she jumped. "Where'll we be livin though, once this is ova?"

"On an Island."

"Sweet!" Liz said, jumping excitedly, liking living on an Island.

"Even though we don't have a Mansion to live in. Just a house." Tawna said.

"Oh. Not as sweet." Liz said, deflating after landing on the safe part of land.

"But hopefully our house is nice enough for you. At least, until Coco could help build us a second house for all of you." Tawna then said.

"Really?! That's nice. I hope it'll be set near a beach." Liz said, liking the beach house that she could get.

As does Isabella as well. Hoping that their new house could be built near a beach once it's finished.

"That'd be fine." Tawna said, feeling that a beach house would be nice to stay in with her new friends. (And Isabella. Regardless of her interactions with Crash.)

Soon, they reached the exit chamber of Road to Ruin, got the box Gem that they couldn't get on the first time in Road to Ruin, and got teleported out with the newest friend that Tawna has made.

Their journey was not ending yet. But they were getting closer.

Chapter Text

"OH S#$!" She softly said into the speaker by mistake.

"Language please! A kid is here after all." Megumi said, flinching at the sudden profanity from Yaya Panda.

Whom was both frustrated, and scared at what she was going to go through on the path separate from the path that Megumi was taking in the Cold Hard Crash level.

Where in the beginning of the level, they both were running throughout another canyon in the snow, when they came to another such cave. Except unlike the other caves that was visited in the past, this one was harder to navigate through.

First off, there was the slippery ice patches, which Yaya and Megumi needed some time to practice on as they slipped around on the Ice, while Polar merely slid around on his belly on the ice. (All while pushing himself with his hind legs.) Megumi was quick to adapt since she was in the sections of Japan that snowed in the winter, making some ponds turn into ice rinks for her to skate on, prior to her capture.

Then there was a sudden increase in Nitro Boxes that loitered the pathway that both of them had to avoid. Especially the death route that Yaya was now on as she was trying to both avoid the Nitro Boxes, and skate on the ice without falling onto them.

Which was easier said than done, as ice skating and avoiding the Nitro boxes were hard to do at the same time.

Before that though, there was also some other hazards, which at first, it wasn't difficult as Megumi, Polar, and Yaya avoided the penguins that either spun, or slid down any slopes to try to knock them down into the pit. While Yaya clobbered some of the penguins with her kung fu.

There was also some floating platforms that was in the middle of the gap that the bottomless pit was underneath, which they used to jump to the other end one by one, and was fast enough to not be on the platform when it dropped down into the abyss below. Much to their relief.

Then there was the hazards in the cave that they entered, like the crushers that Crash, Tawna, and Coco dealt with, that Yaya and Megumi was now dealing with with only minor difficulty.

There was also Icicles that Coco, Crash, and Tawna also dealt with last time, that Yaya, Polar, and Megumi were now dealing with. And they were only slightly more difficult, but Yaya, Polar, and Megumi was able to avoid those without losing an eye. As well as their brains if the Icicles were sharp enough.

Then there was the rotten wood planks that they were running on. They were now weak enough to where they would fall to the bottomless abyss below due to age. And Wumpas to donuts that the cold air and the snow also played a part in rotting the wooden planks in the cave.

Which is a reason why nobody seems to be putting planks in caves.

Then there was the death route, that Yaya was now taking herself. And it was pretty full of dangers, from bottomless pits, one of which had a bridge of crates that she jumped on to have them breaking under her feet as she bounced on them to cross the gaps, with a risk of falling in if she misses a crate, (Which is easy to do as breaking those crates would up the risk of falling in.) to the fact that she had to jump those gaps while bouncing off the ice, which was a little hard. (But thankfully, there was iron boxes on the smaller platforms of ice, that would stop her in her tracks before she could fall off.)

Not to mention the crushers that was also in the death route too.

And the aforementioned Nitro boxes, which on their own, weren't as dangerous since she could avoid them, but the fact that they were also on the slippery ice, 'that' was where they were more dangerous than they should normally be on their own.

Not to mention having some holographic boxes that she needed to solidify, just so she won't end up missing some of them, thus missing her chance for the Box Gem, forcing them to come back for one.

And for this level, Yaya, Polar, and Megumi wasn't in the mood to come back.

And there was a bunch of them on the ice path that she was taking, all in a row that would risk her either overshooting the jump, and hitting the top Nitro boxes, or undershooting them, and barely touching the bottom ones, which would be enough to set them off due to their volatility. And that happened at least once, causing her to lose Aku Aku's spirit to the box since he was protecting her at the cost of his Mojo, from that accident. Now all three of them were on their own.

All while Megumi had a communicator on her that Yaya was speaking to her through, (Which Megumi gained from Brio to communicate with her squad before her freedom.) which is how Megumi was chastising her for her… dropping of the S-bomb. But if Megumi was in her place, she'd probably think the same thing.

"Sorry Meg-chan." Yaya said, using her nickname for Megumi. "But I think I'm about to die! I'm going to freaking die here!"

"I assure you that you won't die here. Just remember what I taught you about skating." Megumi said on the communicator.

"Balance is the name of the game in skating. I know." Yaya said, having been taught by Megumi on one of the patches of ice in a safe place in the canyon, before they entered the cave, all while keeping watch over Polar. Whom was currently with her on the normal path through the cave.

Then she pocketed the communicator into her Cheongsam before concentrating on how she could go through the row of Nitro crates without blowing herself up.

After a couple minutes of her hesitance, she gathered her courage, and skated her way forward while getting ready to jump over the boxes, then she jumped over the first one while quickly jumping again to clear the second one before she touches the box.

Only to fall on her butt when she landed, and now she was headed for the third box, much to her horror as she braced herself for what could be one way to go to the afterlife where pandas go, clenching her eyes as she had to do the split to see of she could stop short of the Nitro box before she could blow up.

Thankfully, when she opened her eyes, she saw that she was absolutely close, yet not close enough to set off the Nitro box as it was just a nose-hair length away from her.

Rather than stare and gawk at the close call, she decided to put that luck to use, and slowly back away from the box so she doesn't slide into the box behind her, then she stood up while keeping her balance. Keeping Megumi's advice in mind.

Then, when she was ready, she jumped over the box after skating forwards a bit. And soon, she was now reaching the end of the death route.

"YEAH-HA-HA-HAA! HECK YEAH!" She yelled out in celebration as she took the Gem on the way down of the hole, that she was sure would lead to the exit of the route, and to safer pastures where Megumi, and Polar should be. Considering that they split up in the cave, with Megumi and Polar taking the normal route.

The hole ended up leading to a slide, that ended up sending Yaya out of the cave as she landed in the snow. Much to her relief that the journey through the 'Cold Hard Crash' level is ending soon. She just needed to wait for Megumi to leave the cave with Polar in tow, before they could leave the level together.

It was a small waiting period, when Megumi ended up exiting the cave mouth, Crystal in hand as she was smiling at Yaya for living. Which she returned with her own as they hugged. Then both of them pocketed the Crystal and Gem, before running onwards.

"So, Meg-chan, how did it go for you both?!" Yaya said.

"It was pretty hard, what with the ice slides, bottomless pits, smashers, and spinning Penguins. Not to mention those darn Nitro boxes. But we persevered, and soon, we were able to get out of that cave while making sure to break all the boxes in our sight. And Polar-san helped too." Megumi said.

"Nitro boxes. What is with those things?! And where does Brio keep getting them?!" Yaya said, feeling quite frustrated at the Nitro boxes, as both of them hoped that they'll end their quest with their sanity intact, as they kept on running.

All while Megumi thought about telling her that she, or rather her mind controlled self might've played a part in their invention, but she feels that she can tell them later when she's ready. Right now, they just had to complete the level, as they ran.

Where they eventually made it to the exit podium back to the Warp Room after detonating the Nitro boxes, then getting the box Gem, since Megumi and Yaya broke the boxes on each of the routes when they split up.

Crash, Coco, and Aku Aku were now in a similar jungle Level called Bee Having that Tawna, Isabella, and Ami was, jumping over the bottomless pits, diving into the muddy ground, and even spinning away the hammer minion that tried to smash them if they were under the muddy ground.

And not only that, but they were also getting chased by large bees. Much to their surprise as they ran fast, then dove into the muddy ground to hide from the bees.

Coco didn't care about the mud on her overalls, she just didn't want to get her laptop all muddy when she dives. So she puts her laptop down on the ground after having laminated it in plastic, before diving in. Since there would be no harm in at least laying the laminated laptop on the surface since none of the large bees focused on it. Which is much to her relief. She just liked that laptop.

"Be careful of these bees big brother, they could really hurt. And I'd rather not know if you're allergic to their sting." Coco said, concerned for Crash, hoping that he won't end up getting an allergic reaction that could be fatal, should he get stung.

Although Aku Aku could be able to heal him from his allergy.

Crash didn't need to be told twice, as he continued to run ahead with Coco by his side, making sure not to suffer such a sting, (Having suffered one himself, a few days after Tawna did.) as he and Coco continued to run through the jungle's path, as well as the canyons, while diving into the mud to hide from the bees. And making sure to get out of the mud so they won't get smooshed by any hammer minion that they come across.

As well as spinning him away so that they'll dive into the mud freely without him ready to smoosh them with his hammer.

It was a good thing that the bees were far enough away so they won't grab their attention. Or that would've made them sitting ducks.

And there was still some bottomless pits that they had to jump over as well. It was like Brio was making a lot of them to stop them with, feeling that they're effective in stopping them in their tracks. It's too bad that they're flexible though.

And there was the acid spitting plants with the pointy vines that tried to melt them, like the ones that Tawna, Isabella, and Ami dealt with in Diggin It.

But none of them were able to stop either Bandicoot sibling, as they kept on running, and even taunting the plants with silly faces. (Like with Crash sticking his tongue out, while crossing his eyes, while Coco pulled her nose up while giving the angry plants a raspberry.) Before moving onwards, while the Plants merely growled in anger as they futilely tried to spit their acid at them.

And there was also Nitro Boxes that they avoided. Especially the ones that was also on the muddy sections of the ground that they were running on. As well as the electric fence gates that they were able to avoid. Even though Crash got zapped by one of them by mistake.

Suddenly, there was an unusual sight that had them stopping, with Crash and Coco looking at it after avoiding one of the hives that sent out at lest four bees.

It was a pile of boxes, both of which were Nitro boxes, and Iron boxes, making a few steps of stairs that they could jump on if the Nitro boxes didn't explode at a single touch.

And yet, they were glowing, but not bouncing up like they were about to blow up. Which is an unusual sight. And the fact that the boxes were making the shape of stairs, had them feeling tempted to climb onto them.

Which, was what caused Crash to test for himself as he slowly walked forward, before putting his finger on one of the boxes. "WAIT CRASH! DON'T!" Coco and Aku Aku yelled out.

Too late, as Crash had his finger on one of the boxes, only something unusual happened.

The Nitro box didn't explode. In fact, none of the boxes exploded when Crash touched them. It was like whatever substance that made them unstable and volatile, had yet to be added to those crates, and they ended up just behaving like regular iron crates.

"That's odd. Why didn't they blow up?" Coco asked as Crash continued to prod and touch each of the box, seeing if at least one of them is going to blow up.

Thankfully for him and Coco, none did. Even as he climbed onto one of them. Which had him excitedly turning to Coco. "Ey Coco, Aku Aku, dey save! Dey save!" He gibbered to her as he made some small hops to demonstrate.

"If you say so Crash." Coco said, climbing onto one of them too, as they both climbed to the top of the pile of boxes to see if they can get a view.

Only to then end up getting teleported together.

This time though, instead of getting teleported to the Warp Room, they suddenly saw that they were right on the side of a rocky mountain, complete with a waterfall by their side, while it also looked like they were in a canyon in between the mountains, and there was a path that they had to take.

"What the…? Why are we here? This isn't the Warp Room." She said confused.

Crash was as well, but he felt that this little area they're in would benefit them too, since it could have a Gem inside as well.

Coco ended up thinking the same thing afterwards. "Might as well make the most of it. Come on Crash, let's get that Gem." She said, thinking that a Gem could be in the area they're in.

"Oaky dokey." Crash said, running with Coco through the path on the mountainside, which has rock platforms that was flat enough for them to stand on, and they had moss on top of them that looked like grass was growing on them. It wouldn't surprise them if it was grass.

There was also iron boxes that they could stand on, and a rocky platform that had a pair of Moles that tried to attack them. But they easily defeated them, before a bouncy mushroom appeared. Which they bounced on to another platform.

Where, surprisingly, right off the bat, they saw a Gem. But not just the ordinary grey Gem, but a purple Gem. "Oh my goodness, a Colored Gem? Like the ones that you and Aku Aku used to save Tawna?" Coco asked, having been told about her save by Tawna herself.

"Yes Coco, and there are probably a few more of them left, since we have a few of the colored Gems even before your arrival." Aku Aku said. "They are Blue, Red, Green, and Yellow colored, and now we have a Purple colored Gem."

"Wow. And I'm guessing that Brio wants the colored Gems too. Maybe even the colored Gems are required for his laser." Coco said.

"Which would destroy that space station of Cortex's that you told us about?" Aku Aku asked.

"Yep. That's it. And considering that Cortex could be zapping the Earth with it, Brio has a reason why he would zap it." Coco said. "Although last time I checked, Cortex isn't destroying the Earth with that thing, but whatever he plans to do with that thing, to Earth, can't be a good thing."

"Hopefully, he won't be able to do that, should we know about what he plans to do." Aku Aku said, hoping that they would be able to stop Cortex before he can set his plan into motion, thanks to them.

"If he is planning to do that, then we know who to send after Cortex to stop his plan from succeeding." Coco said confidently.

Which had Aku Aku also feeling like smiling, as he too knew who would be able to defeat Cortex should he try to use the Space Station to zap earth with it.

While Crash was also smiling himself, feeling confident that he can beat him too.

Now though, they just took the purple Gem, and kept going onwards, while they were braced for whatever they were going to fight up ahead of them.

Which included some hunter bots that shot out large spinning bullets out of their blunderbuss's, which for some reason, happened to move so slow over long distances in the canyon. Which begged the question from Coco, and that was how they were able to keep on going through the air, even though at the speed they were going, they should be dropping.

And why did they explode when they hit the walls, or her brother when he got hit himself, though he thankfully was protected by Aku Aku. But he did feel that shot regardless as he had an ash face from it like in a cartoon.

Then there was the armored Armadillo's that they also fought against, which was hard since jumping on them would merely have them bouncing off of them.

Then there was the Nitro boxes that they too were avoiding, much to their dismay as they continued to dodge the bullets. Which also made the room pretty dangerous for them since they'd end up having to dodge both the bullets and the Nitro boxes. Risking getting hit by either hazard in their way.

Along the way, Coco and Crash had a feeling that they were being watched and followed by someone who was hidden. While Crash ignored the feeling and kept on readying himself for running ahead once he knows he can clear the bullets, Coco was looking around and trying to see what could be watching them running through the area.

That was when she saw a shadowy figure that had only her hands, and her grinning mouth illuminated. That figure looked quite familiar to Coco, so familiar in fact, that Coco was blushing at the figure since it looks like someone she knows. Especially since she felt, that they might meet each other, later on in the journey that they were going through.

For now though, Coco kept on following Crash through the path as they kept on making sure to not get hit by the spinning bullets that still somehow continue to slowly fly through the air.

Then near the end, there was a buzz saw turtle that they had to avoid, along with the hunter bot that tried to shoot them with his blunderbuss. Thankfully, Crash was able to spin away the turtle, while Coco then spun away the hunter bot, as he tried to pull the trigger.

Thankfully, the bullet failed to hit Coco as she jumped over it before hitting the hunter bot.

Now it was just the Bandicoot siblings and spirit mask that was in the canyon as they were now using the bonus platform to leave the hidden area that housed the purple Gem that they were after.

All while the figure made a giggle sound, like she was happy to see the Bandicoots taking the purple Gem from that place, as she swung her way out of the canyon.

"Brio is going to be pleased to know that they're still gathering the Gems too. It seems that Bandicutie has the right idea." She thought, before reaching the teleporter to leave the canyon with.

And soon, they were now back in the same place in Bee Having, and they were now continuing onwards through the path that they took before having been teleported to the Gem route.

Where they had to run from the bees again. Thankfully, Aku Aku would protect them from the stings, if the Bees catch up with them.

There was also other hazards from the other level that Tawna, Ami, and Isabella went through. Like the large stone idols that slid around while each shape rotated to show a different Idol's design, electric gates, explosive acid spitting plants, and even the bees that chased them. So other than the increased number of bees that the siblings had to run from, (Or spin away together.) there was nothing else to write home about.

After some close calls from the bees, nearly getting hurt by the plants spitting their acid at them, and even Crash getting shocked one time by one of the gates, and making sure to break every box that they see, and detonating the Nitro boxes, they eventually made it to the end after grabbing the Crystal. Where they got the Box Gem, and got back to the Warp Room.

That left the last Level for Tawna to take on, as she decided to enter the level, while with only Aku Aku's spirit with her. Simply so that Liz, Ami, Isabella, and Megumi would fully reunite in the Warp Room once Megumi was done with the level with Yaya and Polar.

For now though, it was just herself as she went through the Ruination level. Which was quite similar to Road to Ruin. Down to the similar design of the level that she was in, being the ruins of the Mesoamerican people of the past.

There was also some similar hazards from the Road to Ruin level, considering the frilled lizards, the idols that blew fire at her, and even some rat enemies that tried to kill her as well, but was unable to as she was too flexible for them.

And at the beginning, she smashed the boxes when she saw the Nitro boxes, like back in Road to Ruin. When she barely avoided setting off the TNT box, seconds before meeting and freeing Liz from her control helmet. Except this time, she has nobody to face off against after she broke the boxes and avoided the Nitro box. And it was in the beginning of the main route.

Other than the added difficulty of the level, and the fact that there was also jumping monkeys that also tried to hinder her, there was nothing else to write home about for Tawna.

Other than the fact that after she got the Crystal, and while she was destroying the boxes, she ended up finding a Gem platform, this time, was colored Green. Probably because of the fact that they have a Green Gem, that the platform was made, which she took, knowing that she'd grab another Gem in doing so. Not to mention the boxes that could be in the death route that she might need to break for the Gem.

It was not an easy course. But then again, when were the Gem and death routes easy?

Especially since she not only has more monkeys to face off against, but also the frilled lizards with the hot frills that tried to turn her into ashes.

Then there was the point where in the Gem route, where at the beginning of the route, she ended up meeting the Scorporilla titans herself, having heard about them from Aku Aku's spirit as well as Coco. And she was intimidated by their imposing looks. And considering that they were part scorpion, and part gorilla, she didn't wanna know if they were venomous, should she get stung by their tails.

"That's what they look like when Crashie and Coco fought them?! They're big!" She said, feeling a little intimidated of their imposing size. "And that's because of the Mojo being used?" Tawna asked.

"That is correct. Cortex seems to have used the Mojo to create these Titans, among others. And they're probably being used as his guards for these Gems. That scum." Aku Aku said, still angry at Cortex for having created the Titans. "If he wasn't trying to save the Earth, then I have hopes that the gods shall punish him for his tempering with Nature." Aku Aku said.

"There's that, but if Brio is in the right, then I feel that you may have your chance to punish Cortex, if he's up to his villainous ways again." Tawna said. "And if we're able to defeat him again."

"Let's hope so." Aku Aku said, as he followed Tawna through her route, as she continued to face off against the Titans.

They seem to be mostly trying to flatten her with logs though, so she feels that she's safe for now.

She still needed to duck the logs, or jump over them on her way to the Scorporilla. Before she was then able to spin him away from her due to her spin attack. After that, she needed to keep going through the Gem route.

Where she had to run fast over the brown colored rocks that fell under her feet when she lands on them, due to how rotten and weak the rocks were. Same could be said for the platforms that had some rocks below them, as they do fall, but it took more time for them to fall, unlike the floating ones that falls in under a second when she steps on them. Possibly because the rocks below the certain platforms were able to keep carrying the platform for at least a few more seconds, which gives her enough time to jump to another one, before falling, hopefully without her on it.

And there was still some fire breathing Idols that was also on the Gem route, that she had to run past when the fire isn't being spat out, and they moved left and right, which made it a bit more difficult for her to get past them if the fire was still getting spat out. Forcing her to wait for the fire to stop before keeping on going. Which, would be bad if they were in between the weak brown rock platforms that breaks under her feet. And unfortunately, they were quite near those platforms. Much to her chagrin.

But she was able to clear them, even though she could feel her fur on her arm getting singed from the second Idol, as she jumped to the safe platform.

But she had another Scorporilla to fight against as it threw another set of logs like a certain tie wearing ape. Thankfully, she was able to jump over them, and try to defeat the Scorporilla, who tried to smash her with its massive arms.

Thankfully, she slid under him from between its legs, got to its tail, and was able to use its stinger against it by stinging its back with it. Which caused it to fall off of the platform after turning limp, as she jumped off of it to the safety of the platform it was on.

Tawna then proceeded onwards, standing on the leaning tower platforms that kept on leaning up and down. She didn't know how they were able to do that, but she didn't feel curious enough to find out.

Then after that, she kept on going until she was at the open mouth Idol cave, where she heard the roar of a third Scorporilla. So she braced herself for another round of dodging the logs that the Titan throws her way.

Once she was on the path to the Scorporilla, and dodged the logs, the Scorporilla surprised her by throwing the log like a tomahawk, only it threw it with a side throw to make it spin horizontally, making it pretty hard to dodge. And Tawna took one to the noggin, which hurt hard as she fell to the floor in pain.

"AAAAUUGH!" She yelled out on the floor of the platform. Which luckily for her, wasn't the one that breaks under her feet. "Ooh, ow, that hurt." She then grunted out as she got back up while bearing the pain.

Sure she was protected by Aku Aku's spirit, who then faded after healing her head, but she sure felt that, and she swore that she might be bleeding from the head wound if Aku Aku didn't heal her noggin to where she might have only a bruise on her head, but she wasn't letting that stop her from continuing. She just hoped that she won't get hit again by the Scorporilla after this.

After that, and after dodging the Scorporilla's arms, she made it sting itself, had it falling to its doom out of revenge for the log throw, and was now able to find the route's Gem, before moving onwards through the route. Until she was then able to keep on going until she found the Gem platform that could be the exit to the route. So she took it until it sent her back to the same place that the Gem platform was, which was close to the monkey Idols that breathed fire.

Where she continued onwards through the Level, which was not that different to Road to Ruin, even though it was a little more challenging than that Level. But still nothing else to write home about, as she kept on avoiding the fire breathing Idols, the rats, and lizards, and the monkeys, until she got the Crystal, before she then kept on going through the level, (And made sure to break the boxes in the Bonus room.) until she reached the end after breaking the boxes, leading to her getting the Box Gem in the exit chamber, before leaving the level.

"Elizabeth-chan! It's great to see you again!" Megumi said as the bandicoot girls were hugging each other happily.

"It's great to be seen again. Especially by you gals." Liz said, happy that all of them were reunited.

All while Crash, Coco, Yaya, and Polar was looking on, smiling at the scene in front of them. All while they waited for Tawna to come back from the Ruination Portal that she entered, shortly before Megumi, Polar, and Yaya came back from the Cold Hard Crash level.

Which didn't take too long, as Tawna came back from the level as she had to catch her breath from the ordeal. Yet she was smiling when she noticed the girls hugging each other, happy to be fully reunited and free from Cortex and Brio.

"So, what'd I miss?" Tawna asked Coco.

"Not too much, just them celebrating the fact that they're together again." Coco said smiling, making Tawna smile too when she saw the sight of them hugging.

It seemed that they were going to have quite a few friends being made once this little journey ends.

Once they were done hugging, they looked at each other, before looking at the Bandicoot trio with smiles. "Grazie mille a tutti. (Thank you all so much.) You have no idea how elated I am to be with my friends again." Isabella said.

"It's no problem. Really." Tawna said.

"Ya, no pwobom jut hepin oud." Crash gibbered, also smiling at them.

"Now we just need to complete this journey, then I- er, my friends will help out with creating a new home for you all, once we're back on the island." Coco said, smiling.

"Be sure to tell your friends that a beach house would be nice to make." Liz said.

That was when they noticed that Tawna had a bruise on her head, much to their shock. "Blimey Tawna! What the heck just happened?!" Liz asked shocked, as was the rest of the Gang.

"Remember those Scorporilla Titans, Coco? I met them myself, and one of them was able to chuck a log at my head. Thank goodness that Aku Aku was able to protect my head, otherwise I wouldn't be here right now." She said as Crash hugged her protectively, which she accepted. She was glad to have lived so that Crash wouldn't lose her.

Before they could talk more, the room suddenly got dark when they were prepared to talk about what else they went through before reuniting. Showing that Cortex, or Brio was going to speak to them.

Cortex's hologram ended up appearing in the room. "Listen up. As you all should know, Doctor Nitrous Brio is masterminding the opposition that was sent to try to kill you all. As you also may know, he is the inventor of the Evolve-O-Ray. Brio was responsible for our… misunderstandings in the past." Cortex said awkwardly, like he was embarrassed to even think about what happened a year ago.

Which he was, but it's mainly because of his and Brio's defeat, being the reason why he was embarrassed to even talk about it.

"He forced me to assist him in his plot for world domination, and he's at it again. As we speak, he may be attempting to stand in our way." Cortex then said.

"Really? Cause he seemed to be a more neurotic, slightly insane, and nervous scientist that took orders from you." Ami said, with her friends in agreement. As well as Tawna and Coco.

"I know that he seems to be that kind of scientist. But trust me when I ask this. You know the saying, 'It's always the quiet ones you should watch out for'? Well Brio, is an example of that. For behind his seemingly shy, and nervous presence, is a cunning, and sneaky supervillain who would plan for your downfall, and I fear that I will be no exception, should he succeed in taking all of you down. Which is why, all of you should be on your guard." Cortex responded.

Which even though the crew still had their doubts, they felt that Cortex might have a point about Brio. After all, he was able to create his own army of animals, to try and stop the Bandicoots, when it was just Tawna and Crash on this journey. And even now, with Coco, Polar, Yaya Panda, and the freed four Bandicoot girls joining them on this journey, it seemed like he was refusing to give up, until they either die, or give up on their current journey.

And it's all, in spite of being a slightly insane, stuttering nervous wreck, who took orders from Cortex a year ago, when Crash was rescuing Tawna and Coco. So was he really in control of the old fortress from behind the curtains? None of them knew.

Other than someone, who was among them, and she was calling bull at the response that Cortex gave, even if he had a point about Brio.

Suddenly, there was an Item that Crash noticed, on the platform that he picked up, which had the entire gang looking at it once he brought it to their attention. It looked like a storage unit that was like a tiny fridge, and it was currently the size of a Rubix cube.

And when Crash pressed the button on it, it ended up opening up on the top, before a glowing bubble appeared, and was floating on the top of it, and it showed that all twenty Crystals were inside of it, as they floated around inside. Much to Crash's amazement, as well as Polar's, Tawna's and the girls.

"See this little storage device that is in your hands? I want you to take it, then take this platform, and deliver the Crystals from it, to my right hand man, N. Gin. And quickly, or Brio might send a minion to interrupt the trade. And one more thing, welcome back Liz. I am happy to see that all of you are alive and well. I have hopes, that your rewards shall be great, once this journey ends in my- *ahem* our victory." Cortex said smiling, before his hologram vanished from the room.

"As long as it involves freedom, then I hope so too." Liz said, even after the hologram vanished. While her friends agreed with her on that. But they do have doubts that Cortex might be willing to deliver on that too.

"Okay Crashie, let's make sure not to break that storage box, and give it to this N. Gin guy." Tawna said.

Crash nodded back in response as he closed the box, before they all got on the platform together, before it raised upwards to the hole in the center of the ceiling to help them exit from the mining tunnels of the Warp room.

Then their whole vision turned white as they got teleported once again.

The Gang saw the whiteness leave their view as they saw that they were on a catwalk that consisted of three platforms that was on some high towers. Not only that, but they were in a room that had an open window that lead into space as it showed the view of Earth in space. Showing them that they're on a space station that was orbiting Earth, that they believed was Cortex's.

"Wow. That view looks magnificent. It's like we're on the moon." Isabella said, amazed.

"Except we're on a Space Station that orbits Earth. And for some reason, we're inside a pocket where we're breathing oxygen, and not expanding like balloons in space." Megumi said.

"That's a relief. Otherwise, Cortex could've had us killed if he sent us into space without suits." Tawna said. "Unless we can possibly survive in space somehow."

"Which would be awesome if that's the case, considering that we're Bandicoots, we could survive just about anything that those blokes could throw at us. So what's to say that being in space can?" Liz said grinning with Ami in Agreement.

Suddenly, a flying mech entered the room through the open window. It had red colored paint on its shoulders, the middle of the torso that had a closed cockpit door over it, as well as metallic colored metal for the abdominals. It had a pair of cone hands that opened up to show some lasers inside of them, and the mech was held up by a pair of rockets that moved it around, as it headed for the Platforms.

And inside the glass cockpit was N. Gin himself.

"So. You both made it this far. I have to say, I expected that at least one of you would bite the dust on the way here. *Giggles lightly* Thank goodness I was in the wrong at this point." He said with an echoing robotic voice.

"So, you're Cortex's right hand man?" Tawna asked.

"T-that is correct. I am Doctor Nitrous Gin. *Wheeze* But my f-friends calls me N. Gin. And so can you B-Bandicoots! And like Dr. Cortex said, give the twenty Crystals you collected, to me!" He called out, a little aggressively.

Which had the Gang on edge, since he seemed to be aggressive to them for the Crystals which they were going to give to him.

But he seemed to be itching for a fight too. Almost like N. Brio was…

"Wait! How do we know that you're the real N. Gin and not some imposter?!" Coco asked.

Which had him provoked as his eye was twitching, while the rocket on his head ignited and was now burning. "HOW DARE YOU MAKE SUCH A-" He yelled out, before catching himself. Knowing that it could cause them to be more defensive of the Crystals. Which could lead to them fighting him.

So he had to take some deep breaths to calm himself before he could get aggressive, as the rocket's fire was extinguished. "F-forgive this poor soul in the Machine. I do get jittery and on edge sometimes, when provoked." He said giving them a kneeling bow in his mech.

"I see that you have some screws loose. And is that an actual rocket in your head?" Yaya asked, noticing how the rocket ignited when he got angry.

"Y-yes. You see, I suffered an accident in my lab, where one of our experimental rockets had a premature ignition during my experiments with Cortex, and another colleague. Probably back in the Academy of Evil. It ended up bouncing around the room, before getting lodged in my head, on the right side of it, as you can see." He said, cringing at the memory.

The Bandicoots, (As well as Panda, and Polar bear.) also cringed at the little backstory that N. Gin told them. Feeling like it had to hurt to have an unexploded rocket getting lodged inside one's head. "That had to smart!" Liz said.

"I know. I felt a lot of pain from that accident. T-thankfully, Cortex and our colleague was there to send me to the Nurse's office, where she was able to keep me alive, by robotizing the part of my face that you see before you. Unfortunately, she wasn't able to remove that rocket in my head without killing me, which is why she robotized a part of my face to keep me alive." He said feeling saddened. "But that's okay! *Wheeze* Because I still can be Cortex's best minion due to my survival!" He then said happily.

"Well… it's interesting, and a little heartwarming that you're still by his side." Megumi said, pitying the poor doctor with a rocket on his head.

"And who was this colleague?" Coco asked curiously.

"None of your beeswax." He said annoyed. "Now. Give me those Crystals… please." He said initially angry, before he then calmed down at the last part.

"Will do, okay Crash, open that box up. And after this, let's get those last five Crystals." Tawna said.

As Crash was going to obey though, they noticed that both Ami and Coco was hesitant, almost like something funny was going to happen. And that they might get stabbed in the back once the trade is done. In fact, Ami told Crash to wait for the confirmation that nothing bad will happen once they're done here.

And that is something that Coco was about to ask. "Just one question. Once you and Cortex have the required Crystals, and if you and Cortex are putting them to use, would you indeed be blasting the Earth instead?" She asked, much to the Gang's horror at the last part.

"NO! OF COURSE NOT!" N. Gin said, with his rocket reigniting. "Cortex would never blast the Earth to smithereens! He is not that monstrous! Trust me! *Wheeze* Even he has standards!"

"So what you're saying, is that he isn't blasting the Earth, and blowing it up? Then what explains the space station's cannon?" Isabella asked with Ami wanting to know too.

"Why… it's… to…" N. Gin hesitated, trying to find an answer to go with that could convince the Gang of Cortex's 'goal' for Earth as his rocket turned off again. Then he got an Idea. "To redirect the force! Yeah, that's it! It's so that once the Crystals would absorb the force, then the cannon could then drain that force from the Crystals, to prevent them from exploding, then blast the force away from the Planet. Thus, saving it!" N. Gin said with an evil grin, and a silly giggle feeling that he found his way to keep his lie up. "Not a bad Idea." He thought.

Little did he know, that it was what Megumi mentioned to the gang when she heard about the space station. Which made her relieved that she was correct in that assumption.

And that left the gang convinced that if what N. Gin said is true, then they could've been collecting the Crystals for the right cause after all. And Neo Cortex could actually be reforming back to the good side. And that N. Gin was actually just being paranoid, just in case N. Brio was planning on how to make the deal backfire. Which explains his earlier aggression.

It was like Neo Cortex was actually trying to save the world, and was hoping to apologize to them, by making them the heroes that saved it alongside himself. Not a bad way to apologize to your former prisoners.

Just as they were ready to get the Crystals and hand them to him though, Coco was still not convinced. (And by extension, neither was Ami or Isabella due to Coco's assurance to them, that they could still be doing a wrong thing.)

Which N. Gin noticed as he glared at Coco. "What?! What makes you still hesitant to trust me?! Do I have to create a cure for Cancer to get you to trust me?!"

"What is wrong Coco. You heard what he said." Tawna said, with Crash looking on in confusion.

"I know. I did hear him." She said to Tawna. Then she focused on N. Gin. "But, just one more question. Are you sure that if that 'Force' is real, and what that cannon could do is true? If so, then what if, on the off chance that this 'Force' is not real, that the station's cannon is still going to be zapping Earth?"

"Don't! I'm warning you-"

"And if that cannon isn't going to destroy Earth like you said it wouldn't, then could it be possible that he's got a more sinister purpose than that? Like he's going to drain the life out of it until it's nothing but a barren desert?" She then asked.

Which is much to Tawna's horror. Considering her fondness for nature, she hoped that what Coco said in her accusing question wasn't true, even though she trusted her, and that she could be right, which had her hesitating to have Crash give N. Gin the Crystals again.

"NO! Like I said, Cortex would never to such a thing to the Earth! He would merely zap the Earth to-" N Gin angrily said, before stopping himself in shock at what he nearly told Crash and the Gang.

Which was what had the entire gang feeling surprised, then hesitant about handing the Crystals to him, since Cortex's plan to zap the Earth, was seeming more likely if what N. Gin nearly told them out of anger, was true.

"To do what, N. Gin? To do what?" Coco asked smugly, like she called his bluff, and had the Gang also convinced that they might not be working for a good guy, let alone the guy that is trying to reform himself into a good person. And that had Crash closing the box at Tawna's request in doing so.

"To, um… uh…" He said as he started to hesitate on what to say to Coco to convince even her to side with him, even though it was starting to seem impossible at this point. He also was hesitant to try to kill them to take the Crystals too, since they would defend themselves, and probably defeat him, should they fight. (Although he is confident that his mech could still be able to kill them.)

And that hesitation was going to cost him.

"Let me think here, Um… ah-"

"SPIDERMONKEY ATAAAAACK!" A young girl's voice yelled out.

Then before N. Gin knew it, he was attacked by a mech, which appropriately enough, had a design of a monkey, being a metallic black in color, with white trims, especially on the robotic tail with a cannon on it. While also having some monkey feet, and having at least six arms on the sides of its torso. Sorta like a spider/monkey hybrid.

And it was currently clobbering N. Gin's mech as the Gang looked on in shock and surprise at what was happening to N. Gin and his mech, as well as wondering who the girl in the mech is. "SASSINRASSINFRASSIN, purgashorga, backflatten phillip munka morton, purka furmen looma, burton durton, bush, natten bartten anata, rattin rittin hittin bloat!" N. Gin gibbered out in both frustration, and fear at the unexpected attack, as the spider/monkey hybrid robot was pummeling his mech. He tried to defend himself, but there was nothing he could do as the robot wailed on him.

Until with a finishing blow from the chest mounted cannon, the monkey robot blew up N. Gin's mech as it broke apart into pieces as N. Gin flew off into space. "AAAAAAAHH! DON'T KILL ME CORTEX!" He yelled out in distress and fear, as he flew off into space.

Then the Spider/monkey hybrid mech turned to them, as it now climbed up to the towers before leaning the head of the Mech closer to the platforms as the Gang was nervous about what was going to happen.

Then the head opened, revealing who the pilot was inside of it.

It was a pale grey skinned teen gothic girl that wore a schoolgirl's outfit, complete with a short skirt, that had short hair with some of it sticking up to the sky, having blue eye colors that looked at them with excitement in her eyes, while also having some buck teeth that happened to be sticking out from her overbite, and most of all, she had a lower case 'n' on her forehead. Sorta like a familiar doctor that they know and hate. While she also had a pair of metallic, dark grey colored hands.

"Hello Bandicuties! My name is Nina! Nina Cortex!" She proclaimed, much to their shock at the fact that she happens to be related to Dr. Cortex himself.

And little did they know, one of them was blushing up a storm at the sight of the girl, almost like 'they' know her.

"Cortex?! Your last name is Cortex?! Could you be related to Neo Cortex?!" Tawna exclaimed in shock.

"Mm-hmm. He's my uncle. Which makes me, Nina, his niece. Interesting is it not? But enough about him. Let's just start with you Bandicuties." Nina said excitedly as she jumped out of the cockpit and onto the platform with them. While sounding like she was speaking in third person for a bit there.

All while the gang didn't really know what to think. On one hand, she just ruined the exchange, just as Cortex hoped wouldn't happen, and they felt that Cortex would be quite angry at the news once he knows, and it seems that she's working for N. Brio. On the other hand though, N. Gin did nearly say that Cortex planned to zap the Earth with his space station. Which would explain a lot to them about what Cortex's intentions could really be.

Which would also explain to them, on why Coco seems to be against giving the Crystals to Cortex as well. So thinking about it more, they feel like thanking the Goth girl for the ambush. Regardless of being Brio's ally.

"Bandicuties? You referring to all of us as that, even though it's pronounced 'Bandicoot'?" Ami asked.

Nina giggled at that, like Ami told a joke. "Of course I am. It's my nickname for all of you. But most of all, someone like you." She said, pointing at someone in the gang.

Someone, suspiciously blonde, and tomboyish looking, who was blushing when she looks at her.

As curious as they were about who this 'Bandicutie' is, they wanted to ask one question. "Why did you attack N. Gin?" Megumi asked.

"Well he was ugly for starters." Nina said casually. Which all of them had to admit, she wasn't wrong about that part. Even though Megumi was still upset at that statement. "And, it's also cause it seemed like he was going to forcefully take those Crystals, now that the jig is up." Nina then said.

"Wait. You mean, he was totally going to take them, because the jig is up?" Yaya asked.

"Yup. As he nearly pointed out to you all, Uncle Cortex was indeed going to zap the Earth from his space station. As for what'll happen if he does, well… it's definitely bad. Nina knows that much." Nina said, smiling with a shrug, non-verbally telling them that she doesn't know what he plans to do either.

"Oh no. I guess Coco might've had the right idea. Thank goodness she was hesitant to trust N. Gin." Tawna thought.

All while Nina was giggling at that. "But now that I'm done with him, what are the names of the Panda, the Polar Bear, and the first three Bandicuties that the four of you met?" She asked, referring to Crash, Coco, Tawna, Polar, and Yaya. All of whom, the Bandicoot girls met and befriended after getting freed.

After blushing a bit at the nickname that Nina was seemingly calling them by, they introduced themselves. "My name is Tawna. This is my boyfriend, Crash."

"And I'm his sister. Coco. This is Yaya Panda, and Polar." She said, pointing to Yaya and Polar.

"Nice to meet you all, especially you." She said with a wink, pointing to Coco.

Whom was still focusing on her hands alongside Yaya, feeling a bit somber about her hands. Even though she blushed at Nina's gesture.

"Those are some cool looking gloves you have there. It's almost like you have robotic hands." Yaya said, noting the metallic hands of Nina's.

Whom ended up feeling somber about the mention. "That's cause they 'are' robotic hands." Nina said sadly.

Which startled the gang at the news that she just told. Especially Yaya. "N-No kidding? What happened?" Ami asked.

"Uncle Cortex chopped my old hands off while I was asleep, and replaced them with these." Nina said, looking at her shoes.

The gang ended up gasping at the news they heard. "Now why would he do such a thing?! And to his niece of all people?!" Isabella asked, shocked alongside the gang.

"Because he wanted Nina to be like him, up to being smart, and evil as well. But I love the animals too much to be like him in a way, much to his chagrin. So he did 'this' to me. Sure, these hands work as grappling hands which I had fun with in swinging around, but every time I try to hug a critter, they just… pop like a water balloon full of red food coloring." Nina said, cringing at the memory, and with sadness at the hands. "And at a certain point after that, he sent me to his old Academy of Evil, in hopes that I'll be like him too. Just as smart, and just as evil as him."

The gang was speechless at the news they just heard from Nina. And they also near instantly felt sorry for her. Especially Aku Aku. After all, she was a Cortex, but she doesn't seem to share in her Uncle's ambitions. And she seemed to be a nice girl, and yet her Uncle Neo Cortex did 'that' to her because of it. And all so he could make her evil as well.

It seems that they have found another reason to despise Cortex. Regardless of him trying to save the world. That is, if he truly was, and the thing that N. Gin nearly told them about was a lie. Which they doubt that it was.

Then Nina brightened up in the next moment. "But then, Brio busted me out of the Academy, a few days ago. Now I am here as his Hench girl, to give thanks to him." She said grinning.

Which relieved the gang at how positive she still was. Even though they took that as a sign of her loyalty to Brio, (Especially with what she said about being his Hench girl.) who is still not much better than Cortex.

"But now, let's cut to the chase. Give the Crystals to me, to give to Brio, and then Uncle Cortex shall pay in a high price. Even though I still love him as an uncle. He is nice to me most of the time, regardless of my hands." Nina said somberly at the last part. "Otherwise, I feel that I have a lot of toys to play with, in my mech. Including the Bandicutie."

"I don't mean to brag, but are you referring to me?" Liz asked with a smile, curious if she was being flirted with, even if it's a girl that was flirting with her. (Which she wouldn't mind, even if she likes men too.)

Causing Nina to study her for a second in curiosity. "Eh, not really no." She then said casually.

Much to Liz's chagrin. "And who, pray tell, is the 'Bandicutie' then?" She said annoyed.

"You'll know soon enough, once those Crystals are mine and Brio's." Nina said smiling.

"And then they'll belong to Brio too? Even though he tried to kill us?" Liz then asked.

"He had no choice. You all kept on collecting those Crystals, with the intent on giving them to Uncle Cortex. Thus forcing him to attack you guys to make you all stop, even though he failed a few times. But he still gives all of you thanks, for the Gems." Nina said, giving them a bow on the last part. "I'm sure that if you stop gathering the Crystals, and if you girls would come back to him, then he'd stop attempting to-"

"No deal!" The Bandicoot girls angrily said in unison, catching Nina off guard.

"Wha?! Why?" Nina asked surprised.

"Say what you want about Cortex, but Brio isn't any better. He's still as much of a Stronzo (Scumbag) as Cortex! Considering that we were also his slaves beforehand!" Isabella said.

"I agree with bells on that. He could be the lesser of the two evils for this Journey, if Cortex would indeed zap Earth, but that's all about him that makes him bearable at the very least." Liz said.

"Not to mention the fact that he tried to kill our friends even before they freed us. We won't be his pets any longer after what he tried to do to Tawna and her friends." Ami said, still remembering that Koala Kong was still recruited by Brio. Who didn't even try to stop him, when he tried to smoosh Tawna, and Crash. And later, Coco, and Isabella.

Not to mention Pinstripe being hired by him to try to turn them to swiss cheese with his tommy gun. Or have his right hand lizards slicing them to ribbons, if they weren't lucky and didn't stay on their toes.

"Which is why, Cortex may be a jerk for what he did to us a year ago, but we refuse to return to that Baka no matter how much he begs." Megumi then said, showing that she too doesn't like Brio, regardless of her polite nature.

"So don't expect us to be back by his side when this Journey ends, because we won't. Instead, we shall be as free as a wild animal!" Liz then said joyfully on the last part, finishing the answer.

Which had Tawna, Coco, Yaya, Aku Aku, and Crash feeling like smiling at them for that. They were fond of the Bandicoot girls after removing Isabella's helmet, and they were glad that they were going to be free by the end, as they reminded them that they won't be back by his side once they were done with this adventure.

Sure they felt bad for Nina, and they hoped that they may become her friend someday. But as long as she is loyal to Brio, then they can't obey her when she tells them to give her the Crystals to Brio. Instead, they may have their own plans for the Crystals, after the journey ends.

"But we do apologize for what happened to you. What Cortex has done to you, is despicable. And we hope we can be your friend, if you aren't with Brio." Tawna then said, with the Bandicoot girls in agreement, alongside Crash, Coco, and Yaya Panda.

Nina felt touched at what Tawna said, as she smiled back at her. "Aww, thank you Tawnie." Nina said, calling her by her nickname that Nina made for her. "And I suppose you're both right. We would've been friends if I wasn't with Brio. But I do owe him for my rescue from the Academy. And I can't leave empty handed." Nina said, jumping back into the mech's cockpit.

"So until you girls pay up with those Crystals, and yourselves, this mech of mine shall be the end of your journeys! I do apologize for what Nina is about to do!" She then said as the cockpit closed.

All of the Gang, including Polar was feeling a cold chill up their spines as they saw that they were about to fight a goth girl in a spider/monkey hybrid mech. And it seemed to be a dangerous mech if the beatdown on N. Gin's mech wasn't a sign of that. They hoped they could survive the battle that's incoming.

"Please Nina! You don't need to do this! You can take just the Crystals if we can avoid this battle!" Coco said, like she was trying to change her mind.

"Trust me when I say this. I too feel reluctant in doing this. But Brio ordered me to take the Gems and Crystals, and the girls. And I can't leave with nothing." She said. "So say your prayers! Fire Tail Web Cannon!"

The tail's cannon then proceeded to shoot out some nets, like a web of a spider being shot out.

Which the Bandicoots knew what would happen if they get caught, so they tried to dodge the nets before they could get caught.

Which they were able to dodge, just barely, by staying in the gaps between the platforms that was connected to each other, as Ami barely felt the net just around her ankle. But she was able to tear it off due to her strength.

"Drats! No matter, Nina doubts that you Bandicuties can dodge this. Rocket attack!" Nina said.

Then there was rockets being shot out of the torso of the mech, and they were headed upwards before dropping down on the bandicoots like a rain of them.

"Quickly! Run from the spots where they're going to drop!" Coco called out.

The Gang did as they were told, as they ran around on the three platforms to avoid the missiles that was about to drop on them, while also avoiding any shockwaves that would result from the explosions.

Which, happened to be pretty small looking, which helped them in being able to dodge the missiles.

Much to Nina's dismay. "Double Drats! I had a feeling that I didn't give them some more blasting power than this."

But she wasn't giving up, she was going to take the Crystals for Brio, and take back the Bandicoot girls. She owed N. Brio that much.

"Firing MORTARS!"

The mech then had a bunch of bombs fired from its back after Nina energetically called it out.

And they were headed straight for the three platforms, much to the horror of the gang as they braced themselves for the incoming barrage of mortar fire as they tried to find whatever safe place that they could run to.

That was when they saw another set of platforms that was rising behind them, and a large set of them that made a large area at that, that was only a jump away to safety. They wondered if they were getting helped from behind the curtains. And if it was Cortex helping out.

Either way, they were taking it without question, as they all jumped to the other set. Before the mortar shells hit the platforms that they were on, destroying them.

Which Nina was not amused at seeing, as she resumed her missile barrage.

"We need to do something! We're gonna be blasted into chunks if she hits us at this rate!" Ami said nervously.

Tawna was mulling over how they could be able to do damage against Nina's monkey mech, as she and the Bandicoot girls wondered what to do against her.

Suddenly, she remembered fighting another mech that Megumi herself was fighting inside. And she remembered how to take it out. That was when an Idea came to her as she passed out some of the Wumpa fruit that she and Crash had on their journey.

"What are these for?" Liz and Yaya asked.

"We should throw these at the open spots of her mech where the missiles are. I'm certain that they should have enough weight to set off the explosives on those missiles as she fires them out." Tawna said quietly enough for the gang to hear, and not Nina. "Also, there are exposed parts of the mech that opens up when she fires the lasers too. I'm certain that the juices within these fruits should be able to short them out, and break the mech's weapons."

"Are you sure they could break the mech with these hitting the exposed parts? She might try to block them." Liz said.

"That's why we need to be fast in throwing these, that way, we can be able to hit those parts before she can block them, and break the mech that way." Tawna said. "Once she's ready to fire the missiles from the front, that's when we should throw them."

"What about this though?" Coco asked, pulling a bazooka out of her overall's pocket. Much to the gang's surprise. "Using science, I was able to put this in my pocket. This thing can launch our Wumpa fruit at a fast rate. Can any of you wield it?"

Crash raised his hand, along with Ami, Tawna, and Liz. "Let's pass it around, make sure that Nina isn't going to be able to blast it out of our hands, or snag it from us." Liz said.

"Got it." They all said, hoping that Nina isn't going to hear what Tawna told them.

Then, they ended up running to some cover, as Nina continued to shoot out some missiles out of her mech, hoping to hit one of them in the blast of her missile's explosion, not knowing that they were planning to turn the tide of the battle with some unlikely items in her mind.

"Firing Lasers!" Nina called out.

Then one of the main arms of her mech opened up to show a laser that she was now shooting right out of the mech. Which the gang dodged when she then swung around the laser in a pattern that they could recognize, and dodge. Also while Coco helped them along due to her experience with dodging in video games.

Which Nina saw, and rather than be upset, she was merely smiling at the scene in front of her, liking the way that her 'Bandicutie' moved with the Gang on the platforms. It was like soccer, only they're running away from the laser that she was firing out.

Coco on the other hand, was feeling a little reluctant in fighting back, let alone using the Wumpa Launcher. Which Tawna noticed. Sure Coco was being a good ally, but she was only giving them help in dodging the missiles, and the laser, but wasn't fighting back against Nina with her own Wumpa fruit.

Which Tawna did understand why she was hesitating, since Nina looked like a nice girl, who happened to be working for Brio. If only the last part wasn't true.

Then there was the opening hatches that appeared around the laser beams. Which they guessed, could be weak enough to damage with the Wumpa fruit. So they used the Wumpa Launcher to fire at the gaps of the lasers that Nina was shooting out.

Which, since the wiring was only covered by some flimsy rubber hoses, the juices were able to seep into the wires that powered the lasers in the arms while damaging the hose that covered the wires due to the speed of the fruit. Causing them to short out on one of the arms that shot out the lasers.

Which caused the left laser arm to break, and explode to where she lost it.

"WAHH! Einstein's beard!" Nina said, surprised at the shorting out of the left laser hand. "Aw, darn it. No matter, Firing Laser!" She said, after some calming breaths, using the remaining laser to try to blast them.

And barely succeeding on Megumi, while also zapping away the Wumpa fruit from the air to protect her mech's remaining laser hand.

While somehow failing to notice that the bazooka was being passed around, with the gang tossing it like it was weightless, and keeping it hidden in their pockets.

Then she fired some more missiles into the mix after the announcement. Which, reeling from Megumi getting hit, the Bandicoots also got hit by the missiles, forcing Aku Aku to protect them to the best of his abilities with Mojo.

They were barely alright when the barrage ended, but they all noticed how tired Aku Aku must be feeling from the strain of protecting them all with his Mojo.

"Hang in there children! There'll be another opportunity to strike the mech." Aku Aku said.

They all understood, regardless of Tawna's, Coco's, and Crash's concern for him, as they were bracing themselves for another barrage of missiles, as they proceeded to carefully dodge the missiles while waiting for Nina to use the laser hand again.

They didn't have to wait for too long. "Firing Lasers!" She called out. Feeling like she believes that calling her attacks would make them stronger, like in an anime. Which does beg the question, does she think she's in an anime?

They had to ask later, since they had to take down the laser. So they launched the Wumpa fruit again at a more faster pace with her Wumpa Launcher.

And luckily for them, they were able to hit the exposed laser part. And soon, the laser shorted out. Much to Nina's dismay, and horror, since she had no lasers to fire from her mech. Other than her chest cannon.

But she wasn't giving up that easily. "Firing Missiles!"

The mech shot out missiles, making sure that they would launch upwards then rain onto the Bandicoots.

Who then dodged the missiles now that they were able to see them coming. It wasn't easy though since there was quite the number of them.

In fact, there was the last set of missiles when Tawna, Crash, and Coco was struggling to dodge the set of missiles, showing signs that they were going to get hit. So the girls, as well as Polar, who was fast in saving Crash by having him ride on his back to the other end of the area, were quick in pulling them aside when they were going to get hurt by the last few missiles. Which showed just how much of a team they were with the three Bandicoots as their friends. (And that is regardless of Isabella's tension with Tawna. Whom was pulled to Isabella's side to dodge the missiles.)

Something that had Nina a little unnerved when she witnessed the save. She felt that if she wasn't in her mech, they could've clobbered her together. (Although she was hopeful that they would give her mercy if she loses.)

Now though, she knew that she has them on the ropes as she aimed her missiles at where they could be running to as she decided to do the lead the target tactic.

She fired out the missiles from her mech while aiming her mortar shot at where she expects the Bandicoots to run to, in their attempt to avoid the missiles while readying their Wumpa Launcher.

Once they went where she expected them to go, she proceeded for fire her single mortar shot to their direction, regardless of how hesitation.

Once the Bandicoots were on the platform that she was firing at, they noticed a little too late that they were about to get obliterated by the mortar round that she shot their way.

"OH CRAAP!" Tawna yelled out as they braced themselves for the shot that they were going to suffer.

Only to then witness Aku Aku protecting them with his remaining Mojo in his system. Making a shield that should be strong enough to protect the Bandicoot gang from the blast.

Which worked, even though he was knocked back from the blast.

"AKU AKU!" Tawna yelled out as she caught his drained form in her arms.

Aku Aku was breathing heavily as he laid in Tawna's arms with the concerned gang around him, hoping that he's okay.

"Do not… be sad children. I'm just exhausted of my Mojo. I just need to recover." He said weakly.

Tawna was hoping that it would mean that Aku Aku isn't going to be dead, rather he'd be asleep for a little while. "Y-you're not going to die. Right?" She asked hopefully, holding back her tears alongside Coco and Crash.

"No. I won't. I just need to rest… for a little while. The rest of this journey is up to all of you, now. But I hope… to come back if you ever fight Brio or Cortex, near the end of this journey." Aku Aku said. "Just do this for me. Please, make sure that you're all going to be alive when this journey ends… or when I return to your sides." He said, now floating in the air.

Then he ended up vanishing into the air, showing that he's teleported himself back to the Wumpa islands to recharge himself. Leaving only the gang, and Nina in the room.

As upset as they were at Aku Aku's disappearance, (Even Nina was upset at what she's done to him.) they knew that he'll be back, but they knew that without him, they're vulnerable to whatever hazards that Nina would throw at them, and whatever hazards they would face in the last leg of their journey. But they didn't let that fear stay with them, as they braced themselves for Nina's mech attacks.

All while all of them were glaring determinedly at her, ready to take her down for Aku Aku.

And they were making sure that Aku Aku's sacrifice of his Mojo won't be in vain.

Nina fired out some more missiles, this time, the gang was ready, as they proceeded to shoot the fruit at the missile launchers that was the middle arms.

Next thing she knew, she was missing her middle pair of the six arms of her mech.

"Oh crap!" Nina said.

And that was the beginning of the tide starting to turn in the Bandicoot's favor, as they were fighting with the fruit by shooting it at the vulnerable spots of the mech, making sure to hit the missiles on the remaining arms that has the missile launchers.

And as the battle raged on, Nina felt that she was getting closer to her defeat. In fact, she could already feel herself getting backed to the ropes in a figurative sense.

Nevertheless, she was sure that she can still win, especially with her tail cannon, that doubled as the net cannon that she tried to launch at the Bandicoots. And she still had ammo for it.

"Firing Tail Cannon!" She said. Then the tail fired out plasma shots.

Which surprised the gang, since they thought that it fired out only nets. But they were still able to dodge the shots even if it was by the length of a tiger's whisker.

But Nina was getting started, and she had a trick up her sleeve.

She fired her missiles again, making sure to fire them when she's sure that they won't be able to shoot or throw the Wumpa fruit fast enough. Making them run to dodge the missiles again.

Then she used her net cannon to try to trap the Bandicoot girls. Shooting out a web-like net out of the cannon, after another to trap the girls.

She half succeeded on Ami and Megumi, but the rest was still mobile. And they still had some Wumpa fruits left. And they were ready to shoot them when they get their opportunity.

There was still some Bandicoots that was still on the move though, and a pair of them were freeing Ami and Megumi, while the rest of the gang was focusing on shooting the fruit at the mech's remaining arms when she tries to fire the missiles. As well as distract her so she won't be firing at the Bandicoots that was freeing Ami and Megumi.

Only for her to then move around the room with her mech climbing on the walls, as well as the platforms under them, to dodge the Wumpa fruit. "Whew. That was close. I can't believe I forgot that could still move my mech around." She said to herself, facepalming.

Which surprised the Bandicoots at how flexible the Mech was as it climbed around them.

And that was when she took advantage of the surprise, by surprise attacking them with another net getting launched.

Now all of the gang, minus Crash, was trapped in the net. (And right after Ami and Megumi was freed.) And it seemed like the tide was turning back, and the battle could be ending in Nina's favor.

"Okay. Any last words? WAIT! Don't answer that! It usually ends badly for the bad guy that asks that question." Nina said, having learned that lesson from the Academy, and the movies. "Instead, just surrender the girls, and the Crystals, and Nina will give you mercy!" She told Crash.

Whom was merely glaring at her determinedly for trapping Tawna. And he doesn't like it if someone tries to capture, or kill her.

Luckily for him, the Wumpa Launcher was in his hands when the gang was trapped by the nets.

"Well? Cat got your tongue? Do you give up?" Nina asked playfully. All while the gang was protesting about getting trapped, and rooted for Crash to not give up. Even though the Bandicoot girls thought about doing such a thing in this situation.

Crash shook his head in response, letting her know that he isn't gonna give up. Much to Tawna's joy.

"So be it then." She said casually, admiring Crash's guts for not backing down. Even though she feels that she's going to miss him after the battle. So she proceeded to aim her mech's chest cannon at him, deciding to use it as a finishing weapon.

Not knowing, that Crash was aiming the Wumpa Launcher at it, and that it also has a weak spot.

What she then noticed, was that Coco was by his side when she got out. She didn't know if she had a sharp knife in her overalls, or was able to squeeze through the small gaps of her net. (Which was said to trap a full grown hippo, and was elastic to make it harder to break, which is why she made the nets to trap the whole gang with.) Thus freeing herself, and rushing to his side.

"Aim for the chest when it opens. That's its weakness." Coco said loud enough for only Crash to hear.

After nodding, he proceeded to aim the Launcher.

Which was right as Nina was opening her chest cannon to obliterate Crash with. Only to then notice what was in his hands, and what he was planning to do.

"OH CRAP! Abort! ABORT ON FIRING!" She yelled out to her bot, and pressed whatever button to cancel the chest cannon's fire.

Unfortunately, she didn't program her mech to cancel her charging and firing on her chest cannon, now it was charging, and ready to fire on Crash and Coco, and she could do nothing to stop it, as she hoped that her cannon could fire soon enough to obliterate the Bandicoot siblings before they could shoot her chest cannon.

Her hopes were in vain, as they were able to shoot out the Wumpa fruits, and have enough of them fired out of the Wumpa Launcher to cause damage to her mech.

Which was enough for the battle to end, as the mech was now breaking down, and exploding as Nina was panicking in her cockpit, trying to find a way out of her mech, and to safety.

"EJECT! EJECT!" She yelled out, as she pressed the eject button.

Only to miss her obvious problem in why she shouldn't have done so.

Her cockpit separated from her mech just in the nick of time as it blew up into several pieces that got sucked out of the room. As the cockpit the proceeded upwards…

right into the ceiling of the room, exploding on impact.

The gang, now freed from the net with Crash, and Coco's help, ended up looking away from the impact, while cringing at the sight of her cockpit hitting the ceiling. That looked like it hurt like hell for Nina.

By the time the smoke cleared, they saw Nina, who looked like she was stuck to the ceiling from the impact, covered in soot, and was dazed from the accident.

"Oooh, I forgot that the ceiling was above Nina's mech. I'm so bad at escaping sometimes." She said.

Then she slipped off of the ceiling when gravity took over. Then she felt herself starting to get sucked out of the room, since she ejected to the side of the room where the open side was, and now she could feel herself getting pulled out.

Which is much to her horror since she could get sucked out, and suffocate in space, explode like the animals she hugged, or get taken by Earth's gravity and fall to it like a meteorite.

With a yelp, she launched her robotic grappling hand to one of the platforms, and was trying to pull herself towards the platform. Only to immediately see that she's going to be on the same platform with the Bandicoot gang in doing so, and she got scared and hesitant since they could be ready to give her what for, due to her attempt to kill them in her spider/monkey hybrid mech.

As well for trying to make the Bandicoot girls return to Brio, instead of staying with the original three Bandicoots.

Which leaves only her third choice, which is to teleport herself out of the space station and back to Brio. If only she hadn't left it in her exploding mech. So she was hoping that she might have a back up in her dress if she was able to look for it inside.

The gang on the other hand, was conflicted. After all, Nina happened to be a nice girl who was working for a mad scientist that controlled them. And she doesn't seem to have any signs of becoming hostile if they save her. On the other hand, she did try to kill them in her mech, and force the girls to go back to Brio, so what's to stop her from trying again if she has a new opportunity?

"P-P-Please! Have mercy on me! I don't wanna die! Or get pounded into paste!" She said fearfully as she could feel the suction on her, trying to pull her out into space. So she was starting to choose to pull herself to them, even though she was scared of their wrath. And she hoped that they won't beat her down if she decides to join them on the platforms.

It seemed that she might get sucked out of the station's hole, and into space since she was quite scared of them. It looked like that was it for Nina.

Only for her to then feel herself getting pulled away from the hole, and towards the platforms that they were on. And she was surprised since she wasn't pulling herself to the platforms.

And instead, she was being pulled to them by someone that none of the gang expected. Coco Bandicoot herself.

And she was pulling on her grapple hand towards the platform, much to everyone's surprise at what she was doing.

"Coco?! What're you doing? She tried to kill us!" Ami said.

"I know! But let's remember, it's cause she was ordered to by Brio!" Coco said, continuing to pull Nina to the platforms. "She isn't a bad girl! She can even be of help to us!"

Coco had a point about Nina, considering that she was a friendly girl who interrupted the deal, before it could've ended in Cortex winning and zapping the Earth.

"What's stopping her from coming back to him though?! What if she's still gonna be of help to Brio?!" Liz asked, feeling that Nina could flee back to Brio to plan another attack against them.

Coco had to think about it for a minute as she continued to pull Nina to their spot. Then she knew what to say. "Her friendship with us! That's what'll stop her!" Coco then said. "That's why all of you must trust me. And don't try to beat her up in revenge. I'm sure that she'll be a great friend to us later on, because of this save. Whatever she may do in the future, will be my fault too." She then said, willing to take the blame if Nina tries to kill them again.

That surprised the gang, as they thought that Coco was insane to save Nina, and yet, it seemed that she could be correct in saying that Nina would be friends with them. Regardless of having tried to kill them.

But nevertheless, Tawna, and Crash trusted Coco with what she was doing as Nina was almost to the platforms that they were standing on.

And soon, she was now safe on the platform from being sucked out. Much to her relief and joy as she had to catch her breath.

Once she had her breath, she was beaming at the fact that she was freed, as she was dancing, and jumping around with energy that is pretty similar to Yaya's, before focusing on Coco.

"Are you okay Nina? I hope that brush with death didn't give you any-" Coco tried to say.

Only to then get put in a tight hug by Nina as she then got twirled around while being held by her hips. Before being put back on the ground, while having Nina's hands on her cheeks. "You saved Nina, my Bandicutie! You're my hero!" She said excitedly. Before smothering her in kisses on her face, and even on her lips, making her blush.

Which surprised Tawna, and Crash, as they didn't expect that kind of response from Nina. As was the rest of the gang, who was also caught off guard at the response. They thought that she would at the very least, hug Coco, and twirl her around in celebration. And yet, she was giving Coco some kisses like a princess would to a hero.

It was like she loved Coco. And in a romantic way, regardless of their genders. Guess they found their 'Bandicutie'.

And both Crash, and Tawna, didn't know what to think about that image in front of them. Either way though, it didn't involve disapproval.

"I-I-It was no problem. R-really. I'm just glad that you're alright." Coco said, not minding the kisses from Nina.

Once she was done with the kisses, she then remembered that she was on the platform with the gang, which left her nervous again at what they'd do to her. Which caused her to Kowtow to them. "I'm so sorry. I just f-followed orders from B-Brio. I didn't want to disappoint him." She said, scared of whatever they could do to her.

The gang was still feeling pretty hesitant on whether to trust Coco, and let her have mercy, and probably let Nina join them, or to make sure that she won't cause them any trouble. (Not that they were going to kill her, just send her off back to Brio.) Either way, they acknowledged that she at least apologized for her actions, and it seemed genuine.

Which did help play a part in their eventual choice after a tense few moments.

They ended up hugging her back, much to her initial surprise at that. "Wha?" She asked.

"We forgive you Nina. We still know that without Brio, you would make a good friend." Ami said.

"Sono d'accordo. (I agree.) I have hopes that we'll be friends when this journey ends." Isabella said, with the rest of her friends in agreement.

"Ah twus ya doo." Crash said smiling, feeling that whoever his sister would trust, he trusts too. Alongside Tawna.

None of them had any idea, how relieved Nina felt from their acceptance of her apology. And it seemed to her, that they would be willing to let her join them if she wants to.

"Thank you all. Nina hopes to be a great friend to repay you all. Especially to you, Bandicutie." She then cutely said to Coco. Who blushed in response, yet was smiling at her.

"So I take it that you're joining us?" Tawna eventually asked once their hug was done.

"Might as well. Even though Brio would be mad that Nina has joined you guys too. But I don't think he can stop me now." Nina said, confident that Brio is losing, as she decided to take the communicator out of her dress, and throwing it out into space. Showing them that her loyalty is to them now.

After that, they were now teleported out of the Space Station, and back into the Warp Room. Where their journey would be nearing the end. They hoped they'll live through it, now that Nina is with them.

Chapter Text

In the space station, in the same room that the master Crystal was in, Cortex was in the room with a bandaged N. Gin with him. And the former was looking out the window at Earth again, while frowning again. While the latter of whom was nervously explaining himself on why he was there, without the Crystals.

"S-S-She just came outta nowhere. And her m-m-mech damaged mine. *Wheeze* There was nothing I could do. *Wheeze* I swear, I couldn't get her off!" N. Gin said.

All while Cortex continued to frown, and scowl at what happened that sent N. Gin here to him. He saw the battle take place. And to say he wasn't happy would be a slight understatement. He knew it wasn't N. Gin's fault. It was his Niece. And since she was working with N. Brio, whom he swears, was the one who busted Nina out of the Academy, probably to gain her alliance against him, It seemed to him that Brio was gaining the upper hand in this battle.

What he also hated, was the fact that N. Gin was provoked into nearly telling them the truth. Which also helped lead to the battle that took place, due to N. Gin's hesitation costing him the chance to take the Crystals due to what he feared, was an ambush, and possibly made the Bandicoots weary of giving him the Crystals that they have so far. At that rate, he'll never get those Crystals for his space station, and he would lose again.

At least N Brio probably lost his final minion to the gang, since they were able to make it to the last warp room, and that he's not too far from finding where his location could be. Which is where he would teleport him out of his hideout, and to his own station, so he would give him a piece of his mind.

Or… maybe he could teleport him somewhere else, if he has the chance. Like probably into a volcano. Or into a stampede of Rhino's. Or probably the best of all…

to his enemies, to kill two birds with one stone by having them beating him up for his troubles, and dollars to donuts, gaining their trust. (Not that it's necessary, since he'd control them too when he zaps them, when they're on Earth.)

For now though, he had only one thing to worry about, and that is what to respond with, once they ask their accusing questions, due to what N. Gin almost told them.

"Don't be sad N. Gin. There was nothing you could do once she came." Neo Cortex said. "And don't worry about the Bandicoot fools. They can still hand me those Crystals."

"But how?! *Wheeze* I almost told them your true plan for those Crystals. They're now onto us. *Wheeze* And they might refuse to hand them over." N. Gin said sadly, and fearfully. While he was wheezing more due to his nervousness, and being out of breath.

"Leave that part to me. I know what I can say to convince them what my plan 'really' is. And they may continue to grab those Crystals for us if I'm able to convince them. Just continue licking your wounds, and getting my laser ready for Earth, once they hand them over." Cortex said. "And one more thing, how good is your Chinese?"

At the question, N. Gin was confused, but answered it anyway. "Not so good I'm afraid. I can't even read those Chinese words. Why do you ask?"

"Let's just say that I intercepted a message that I feel was being sent to a minion of Brio's, on Earth. Unfortunately, it's entirely written in Chinese characters, and I have no clue of what it says because of it. And sadly, my translator is limited to European languages. So, I let it go, feeling that whoever it's been sent to, can't be able to read it, let alone have the translation software to use against it. Making them as lost as I am in what it's saying." Cortex said.

"Oh. Sorry I couldn't translate it for you, Dr. Cortex." N. Gin said.

"Don't feel bad N. Gin. You could've done your best in that part, and I would've been proud of you for that." Neo Cortex said, smiling.

Much to N. Gin's joy.

Meanwhile…

It was back on N. Sanity Island that a certain figure was in her room, on her laptop again as she was continuing to hack from it. And she was making good progress against Cortex.

Especially since she was able to learn some info as to where they are, and that they were progressing through the world, and collecting Crystals for some reason.

And Cortex wants to have those Crystals to power his Space Station over Earth, and Coco knows that he plans to zap the Earth with it. The question is, what could he do once he does zap earth.

But she also had another thing to do, and that is involving a message that she got a little while ago. That message, that she got, could be of help to her and her hacking skills into Cortex's space station to see what he plans to do.

There was one problem. It was written in Chinese. Almost like whoever was wanting to help her, was from China, and he/she had no idea of how to type it into English, or knew English, but knew of the risk of Cortex intercepting the message, and the result that could come from it, so he/she had to use the Chinese writing so that Cortex wouldn't be able to read it, or translate it.

Which was a good plan, but now, how can 'she' be able to read it? Sure she might have an interest in learning Chinese, but so far, she needs a translator to do that.

Thankfully, her translation is not limited to European languages, but also the entire globe's language. So she had her opportunity to translate it once she's done getting into Cortex's system.

Which wasn't easy for her.

Rather than put all of her effort in hacking the system of Cortex's, she decided to later translate the message that basically said in Chinese, something about the girl sending it to her being from somewhere, and that she knows what she needs to do.

She proceeded to read from the almost entirely translated message, feeling that she might've been able to translate enough out of it.

What she got out of it was that it said that she was sending the message to her as a heads up from her, about how she's going to have a bunch of visitors to the island she was on. Not only that, but she's going to have someone who would be quite close to her. Then there was also what she should do to find what Cortex is going to do, and of course, tell Crash and Tawna what he is really going to do when she finds out.

What she couldn't get out of the translated message, was who the sender was.

Then there's the P.S part of the message. Telling her the password to Cortex's system. and it was "******123." With the asterisks being removed to show the password.

Which to be fair to Cortex, it was a pretty subtle password, and it wasn't easy to figure out, and could be changed once he finds out. But the last part of the password had her feeling exasperated.

"That's the kind of code, that a moron would put on his footlocker!" She said.

Nevertheless, she used the password anyway when she got around to hacking into the system of Cortex's to find out what he's planning to do with the Space Station's vortex cannon once he gets all of the Crystals from Crash and Tawna.

Which is where she ended up looking in horror at what she was seeing. Apparently, Cortex was indeed going to zap Earth, and instead of destroying it like she thought he'd do, he was instead going to zap it for a different purpose.

"I gotta tell them!" The figure said, getting out of the system, and scanning for the warp rooms to see where they are, not knowing that they're now a gang, due to having not seen the rest of them in the room. Then she saw that they were headed to the last room of the Warp Room.

Only to then see the dreaded 'one bar left' on her laptop battery. Much to her chagrin. "Oh come on!" She said.

No matter, she just needed to charge it up with only one bit of juice to last long enough for her hologram's message to be sent to them. She just hopes it'll be enough once she gets her message to them.

Back in the Warp Room, the gang, with their newest member, Nina Cortex, the Niece to Neo Cortex, was in the fifth, and hopefully last Warp Room, which happened to be a Space Station in design.

And both Isabella and Tawna found it to be a major improvement in atmosphere. Especially since it's not a sewer room, or a coal mine that they would return to after collecting the Crystal, or Gem. And both Bandicoots were happy that they have a clean, and cool looking room to return to as they collect the last five Crystals, and the last seven Grey Gems, or, the six Grey Gems, and the last colored Gem.

"Ah, finalmente. (Finally.) A warp room that isn't a sewer, or a coal mine. And look, it's a space station." Isabella said, looking at the glass roof smiling alongside Liz, Ami, Tawna, Crash, and Nina.

They still miss Aku Aku though, whom was sent back to the islands to recharge his Mojo when Nina's mech proved too much for him to protect the gang from. Forcing him to rest. They didn't put it past Nina though, since she was just following orders from Brio. And since Brio might've lost his last minion in Nina, he may be powerless to punish her for the betrayal that she just did.

Scanning around the room, the gang saw the last five Crystals in the room, along with the Gems. And they felt that they could be missing something as they got off the platform.

Where they had to think about the Gems later, as the room got dark once again, showing that a hologram of Brio, or Cortex was about to return. And in this case, either one of them are going to be ticked off at what happened, whether it'd be Cortex, for what happened to N. Gin, and the deal with him, or Brio, for having lost his last minion in Nina.

The former's hologram appeared in their sight. And sure enough… "GRAARGH! I said, give N. Gin those Crystals, before N. Brio could interrupt the deal, and look what happened! I don't know what caused such hesitation, but now you know what hesitation rewards you with!" He said angrily.

"Well excuse us for the fact that your right hand man got his butt kicked by your Niece." Ami said, also angrily as Nina tried not to look at her angry uncle as she stood behind Ami. "But we were told that you were going to zap the Earth."

"And guess what. N. Gin almost told us himself about your plan when Coco called his bluff. So fess up! What is your true plan for those Crystals?!" Tawna then said.

Cortex looked like he was at an impasse of what to tell them, as he now looked nervous. He had to choose whether to continue to lie, and say to them that Brio was manipulating them, or to confess to them his true plan for Earth and what he'd do to it once he gets the Crystals.

That was when he had a new idea of what to say. He just needed to act. "MMMNRGH, GRAAAHH, Oh fine. I confess it! There was no force that threatens to destroy the world. Forgive me when I say that I made it up so that I could kill two birds, or in this case, three birds with one stone." Cortex 'confessed'.

"And what pray tell, is those three birds that you plan on killing?" Liz asked, knowing what Cortex means by the saying.

"One, yes. I plan to zap the Earth, but I don't intend on destroying it, as you might believe. Instead, one zap from the vortex cannon is to benefit the planet, by zapping Brio's own laser cannon, which he plans to use to destroy my space station, and then he'd use it to take over the world, or destroy it, with no one able to stop him once he does. Two, I plan to give all of you credit for that, so that you'd be heroes that saved the world from whatever Brio's plan could be, if he gets his Gems. Which would lead to number three."

"And what would that be?" Isabella asked.

"I'm going to draw Brio out. And once we do, he shall suffer his just due punishment from our hands. That is the reason why you and Tawna was sent on this journey. To make sure that Brio will fall for my gambit, lose his minions until it's only him left, then I shall destroy his laser, and make him suffer a major defeat that is so severe, he will never return to villainy again. I just need you all to continue to gather the last five Crystals, while I search for that fool, and your eternal rewards shall be given when he loses." Neo Cortex said.

As much as the gang, (Minus one of them.) was understanding of why Cortex sent them to draw Brio out, and defeat him for his villainy, as well as what Cortex mentioned about him, they had something to say. "And what about your niece that you oh so kindly, chopped off the hands of?! What reason did you have to decide to give her the robotic hands to pop the cute animals with?!" Ami asked angrily, hugging Nina to her side like a protective sister would, with Coco doing the same to Nina.

Which Nina didn't protest to since she felt safe in Ami's arms. And she was happy that Coco was doing the same thing to her.

"A-and what a-about what Brio said, about you zapping E-Earth for a more sinister purpose?" Nina nervously asked.

"N. Brio is manipulating you, my Niece. Remember what I said about him, Bandicoots? Brio is a cunning, and sneaky supervillain who would plan for your downfall. Say what you want about me, but how much better is he, compared to me?" He asked, guessing that they may hate him too.

The gang had to think about it for a bit. All while one of them was still calling bull, even if he may have a point about Brio's cunning. "Not too much." Tawna eventually said.

"Then let's keep our focus on him until we're able to defeat him first. And to answer your question about my niece, it was to toughen her up." Cortex said.

"Yeah, she told us that. But that, and putting her in that 'Academy of Evil' of all places isn't something a family member should do to 'toughen' someone up." Ami said.

"I was an evil scientist. What do you expect? Besides, the world is both a good place, and a bad one, as the world's history, and medieval wars would prove. Not to mention whatever creatures she'd try to befriend, that would not return her kindness, but rather stab her in the back with it by eating her. And those sections of the world, has no room for a friendly spirit like her, especially with the malevolent spirits that she could be among." He said defensively.

The whole gang tried to come up with an argument to that, but they ultimately found none, as Coco did learn about medieval times from her computer, and she felt relieved that she wasn't born in that era. As Tawna also agreed alongside the Bandicoot girls since they too learned about warfare. Also, they admit that there are indeed some aggressive, and wild creatures out there, that Nina would likely die to if she attempted to befriend some of them, and that there could be evil people that would probably kill, or manipulate her too. So a little toughening up was necessary, just as long as it doesn't involve traumatizing her.

But chopping off her hands, definitely shouldn't have been involved in doing so, as it was unnecessary, and brutal. Something that had them hating Cortex, almost as much as Brio as of now.

And they all agreed that the world is also a great place, since it was beautiful with the islands, the countries in the world that they would someday take tours of, and whoever they would meet inside that would be a friendly guy to get to know. And they would protect it with all their might from whatever dares threatens Earth. Which includes Brio, and Cortex. (If either of them threatens it that is.)

"Now, I need her to return to the Academy. She still has much to learn, and I have a hunch that Brio took her from that place for his own gains. But regardless-"

"No deal! She's with us now. And she will never return to that place with us around. So don't ask again!" Ami said, keeping her arms around Nina. With Coco following suit as she too glared at Neo Cortex.

"I'm with her on that. She's been through enough! She doesn't need to go through more!" Tawna said, also putting her arms around Nina to protect her too.

Cortex wasn't happy about the response, as he expected them to be willing to give the girl back to him. But as angry as he was, he knew that if he does try to take her, they'd refuse to follow him anymore, and just abandon the quest he sent them on and try to find their own way home to the islands. And in this case, this isn't what he wants.

Nevertheless, he knows that she was busted out by Brio, and that she still has yet to complete her education of being as evil as he is, and that Brio shouldn't be her caretaker. But at this point, it was feeling impossible to get her back, with the gang by her side.

He eventually gave up. For now.

"Fine! Do as you please with her as her new friends. But know this, if she dies on this last leg of this journey, I will see to it, that all of you will die too! And by my hands, if Brio fails in his attempt on your lives." He said, much to the gang's joy at his giving up. While also showing them that regardless of what he's done, he still loves her like an uncle would.

Then he got somber, as he looked at her. (Even though he also made some hidden glares towards her.) "And I apologize for the robotic hands Nina, and I hope to earn your forgiveness, when Brio suffers his defeat." He said.

At least he apologizes for what he did, but they aren't gonna forgive him anytime soon.

"C-can you give me a new pair of robotic hands? Ones that are still grappling hands, yet has pressure sensors on them, so that Nina won't continue to accidentally crush the cute critters?" Nina asked, hoping that he could do something like that as an apology.

Cortex had to hide his frown as he rolled his eyes. But he smiled nonetheless. "At the end of this journey, you may." He said, making her smile at what he said.

Not that he was gonna go through with it, but none of then knows that. (Not counting the one that knows his plan, little did he know.)

"But that's enough talking for now! There are now five Crystals left, and dollars to donuts that Brio is gonna go all out at this point. Be sure to grab them, defeat Brio, and whatever he has left that he throws at you all, and bring them TO ME!" He yelled the last part, before his hologram vanished.

As reluctant as the gang was, they knew that they may be unable to return home now that Aku Aku isn't there. So for now, they must trust Cortex, or help Brio if Cortex tries to betray them, once they get the last five Crystals, and last seven Gems.

So for now, they were ready to hop in the Portals as they looked around the room to see the last Gems that they must grab with the Crystals. Which is where they all noticed two things.

One, is that there was no colored slots where the colored Gems should go once they collect them, which means that the Purple Gem that Crash and Coco got could be the final one that they have, putting the colored Gem quest at an end.

And second, is that there was only six Gem slots in the room. And they needed the last seven Gems to reach forty-two, as Brio said he needs.

"Oh no! I think we're missing one Gem. Hopefully one of these portals will lead to the last one in the basement room." Tawna said nervously, which had the rest of the gang also feeling bummed out since they did count the Gems before and after the battle against Nina, and they found out that they were going to be one Gem short once they get the last five Crystals, and the last six Gems in the Warp Room that they were in.

Nina though, was now reminded of something as she started to smile. Much to Tawna's confusion. "What? Why are you smiling?"

That was when she pulled out a surprising item out of her space pocket of her skirt. (With a popping noise being made.) A single Grey Gem. "I used this to power my spidermonkey mech! It's a good thing Nina was able to take it from the mech, when I used the ejection seat of my cockpit. As for where it ended up when I crashed into the ceiling, well… you don't wanna know." Nina said cringing, as she also blushed, still feeling the afterpains of where it ended up.

As did the gang, as they decided not to ask, since they were sure about where the Gem was when Nina attempted to escape from them.

Nevertheless though, they were giving Nina praise for having the Gem that they needed, which means they have only the last six to grab. Though that does beg the question of where the last closed Portal in the basement Warp Room leads to.

But they didn't dwell on that too much, as they pondered of which portals that they could enter to find the rest of the Crystals.

Soon, Coco, Nina, and Ami chose to enter Piston It Away, (Likely a pun about Pistons. Which once again got a chuckle out of Tawna, Coco, Yaya, and Ami, while Nina too chuckled alongside Megumi.) while Tawna, Isabella, and Crash chose Rock It, (Another pun, this time, about Rockets. Bringing another chuckle out of the gang.) while Yaya, Liz, Megumi, and Polar chose the Night Fight Portal.

Much to Nina's joy, since she would hang out with Coco more, while Isabella was also feeling joyous since she would be with Crash as they save the world from Cortex, or Brio, although Tawna is there too, to protect him from her seduction. Which is much to her dismay. While Ami and Megumi promised each other that they'll return to the room they're in, while alive and well. Isabella and Liz promised the same thing to them, as they made sure that they can defeat either evil scientists while they're at it.

Soon, they jumped in when they were ready.

Coco, Nina, and Ami was looking around in awe at the place, seeing that they were in what looked like a boiler room. Which also looked to be a bit steam-punkish, since the boilers happened to be held together by patches of metal that was welded together, as well as connected with rivets. The same could be said for the pipes in the room, as well as the platforms that they were walking on. While they also noticed some of the more futuristic ones that was in the background behind the boilers.

What they also noticed was that some of them had an upper case N on them, likely as a sign that those boilers belong to Neo Cortex himself. They also noticed that the platforms they were on had pipes underneath them.

Then they saw that there was pistons in the room, some of which happened to be ones that would try to crush them if they were under them. (Like the first one that was near where they entered.) Which does show them why Cortex called this level, Piston It Away.

"That's new." Ami said.

"No kidding. I thought we seen it all from this journey. And yet here we are." Coco said.

"And I thought Uncle Cortex had nothing when Brio told me about his defeat." Nina said.

"Either way. Let's go. We're almost to the end." Ami said.

"Aye aye ma'am!" Nina said, saluting Ami as she and Coco followed onward through the level. All while holding Coco's hand.

Which had her blushing along the way through, due to the contact. But she didn't protest as they ran through the path while avoiding the crushing pistons.

They also avoided, and destroyed some robots with three legs, and a set of pipes on their upper section of their body that looked like they're hot, orange, and glowing, showing them that the robot could burn them if they try to spin them away. Thankfully, Ami slide kicked them to destroy, or knock them off the platforms, while Nina used her robotic hands to punch them away.

Which made the hands a mixed blessing for Nina, since she had no nerves on her hands that would hurt her, but there was also the negatives, like the aforementioned crushing of the animals that she hugs.

But she refused to let that stop her from using other ways of expressing her love for the animals, especially Coco herself as she protected her alongside Ami. Even though she can take care of herself.

There was also some other robots that happened to have electrified tentacles that tried to shock them.

Something that Nina learned the hard way, as she smashed one of them, causing her to get electrocuted by the bots, making noises of getting shocked out of her mouth, causing Ami and Coco to cringe at the sight.

By the time the shock was done, Nina had an ash face while her hair was a little more spikey than last time, as she was dazed. "Ooh, Nina forgot that those were electric robots." She said, recovering from her dizziness, and electrocution as Ami clobbered the robot in return as she retracted her hand. Before wiping the ash off of her face, and flattening her hair down, though leaving only the last few spikes sticking up. Before she then glared ahead at more of them.

Ami was prepared to take down the rest of the robots when she saw a blur of dark gray that attacked the electric bot, before seeing Nina now in front of her after moving past her via pulling herself to the bots she was fighting. "Two can play at this game, bad robot monsters!" She then said, as she threw another electric tentacle robot off the platform after grabbing its non-electrified sections, before clobbering another hot pipe robot with her robotic hands. Much to both Coco and Ami's surprise at her sudden outburst as they saw her obliterating the remaining ones in the area.

They felt relieved that she was an ally of theirs when she was done with the robots, before she flashed her smile at them.

Then they kept on moving onwards after getting over their surprise, while taking down more of the robots that tried to burn them, or electrocute them.

All while taking down the boxes along the way, including the boxes that were bouncy, causing them to bounce against the boxes that was over them. Which they did see a bunch of plenty of times through their journey. Only this time, there was a stack of floating boxes that was over the bouncy one. Which hurts, but Ami had a tough skull that withstood all of the boxes. Which was like how Crash himself had a tough skull of his own that had him shattering the boxes himself.

Then they kept on going forward, avoiding the crushing pistons, especially the row of four that they had to patiently follow behind until they make it to the other end, while destroying the other hot pipe bots, as well as the electric bots that they too destroyed. Even though some of them had their tentacles raised upwards to prevent any attempts of jumping on them, a la goomba stomping them. Which the trio knew would end badly as Nina merely punched them on their side while avoiding the electrified sections of the bots to take them down. While Ami and Coco kept on using the slide kick to take them down.

Then there was some pistons that went upwards, giving them some help in jumping across gaps due to the extra height. Which Nina didn't need since she used her grapple hands to swing to the other side. Usually with Coco in her hands, like an action heroine carrying the princess to the other side of the gap via swinging.

Coco appreciated the help from Nina, as she blushed at Nina being Gallant in protecting her, and helping her with the gaps. Even though she can handle herself pretty well.

Especially as she continues to aide Ami and Nina in taking out the bots that gets in their way of getting to the Crystals, and the Box Gem, as well as the death route Gem that they could be getting too, at the end of the route.

Speaking of such, after they got the Crystal, there was a death route platform that was near the path that they were taking, which fitting with the theme of the level, looked more sci fi, and had a glowing neon green skull and crossbones on it.

"There's the Platform. Seems like one of us is gonna be going through the death route." Coco said.

"Fine by me. Which one of us is going through there?" Ami asked.

"I'll go. You and Nina should keep going through the normal route to the end. I'll meet you both there if the death route goes back to the normal route. Otherwise, I'll meet you guys back in the Warp Room. I'll make sure of it." Coco said. Assuring Nina that she'll make it back.

Nina was reluctant to let her, as her protective hugging signaled to Ami and Coco. "It's okay Nina. I'll be back, I promise." She assured her.

Though she was reluctant, she let go of Coco to let her on the platform.

"Goodbye my loooove!" Nina dramatically called out as Coco floated upwards.

Which Ami felt was an amusing sight even if she does hope that Coco would live too, as she stifled her laughter. "It's okay Nina. She can take care of herself. Just have faith in her." She said, patting Nina on the back in a calming motion.

Which Nina accepted as she calmed down from her sadness of leaving Coco alone. It took a minute of that, before stood tall again. "I'm okay. Lead the way Ami." She said, following her through the normal route as they took down more of the robots that tried to stop them.

Along the way through the path, they came across a bonus pit. "Oh look. A bonus room. Don't know why they're called that though." Ami said, since even the bonus boxes were required for the box Gems. Which was a definite requirement for Brio to win.

"What are they for?" Nina asked.

"Giving us plenty of boxes to break, as well as Wumpa fruit. Which for the former, is what we need to get those grey Gems for Brio." Ami said.

Which delighted Nina when she heard that. "Which is great! Brio is gonna stop uncle Cortex from winning. Sure he was a little crazy, and he does seem like he's a traitor, but he only betrayed uncle Cortex, and for good reasons, and he was nice to me when we were together, shortly after he busted me out of the Academy." Nina said.

"Hmm, so he was nice to you, unlike Cortex?"

"Of course. Not to say that uncle Cortex wasn't nice to me in general, since he does love me. And he does let me love the animals in other ways after my hands were replaced, before he sent me to the academy." Nina said, remembering the good and bad times with Cortex.

Which, if there was any small thing that Ami could praise Cortex for, it's that he at least has a loved one, like his niece that they were allied with.

Now though, she and Nina entered the room. Where they proceeded to collect the rest of the boxes, grab the Wumpa fruit, before they got back to the normal route that they were on, before proceeding forward through the route.

Where they fought against the robots, the door holding scientist bots that tried to knock them back, (And probably to their doom.) with the doors, only for Ami to return the favor, and do the same thing to the bots to knock them off of the platforms, as they screamed to their demise.

Then there was a new hazard. Being some rays of energy traps, that gets set off when they step on some pressure plates, causing a nearby laser shooter to shoot out a plasma bolt at them, which they dodged since it wasn't fast, but it wasn't slow either, as they barely missed them. Which was a good thing, since Nina knew, and told Ami, that those were shrink rays that could've shrunk them down until they vanish.

It took some time until they reached the end, only to notice one thing off with the level that they were going to end. The thing being, was that they were supposed to have the required boxes to grab a Gem from the exit chamber. Only to be told by a holographic counter that they were low on boxes.

There was something that Ami noticed though, before she could get angry. "Hold on, is that counter going up?" She asked, noticing that the counter was rising upwards before stopping, showing them that Coco could be breaking the Boxes in the death route. "It is."

"Really? Then I think Coco is getting the rest of the boxes in the route, probably along with the route's Gem. I wonder how she's doing?" Nina asked. Only to then realize something that had her gasping in shock before she ended up feeling ashamed. "Oh no. Nina just remembered. Brio just re-recruited an old acquaintance that he created just weeks before the whole fiasco that lead to their old fortress burning down, and he just gave her an upgrade."

"What?! You mean we're about to fight another Bandicoot minion of his?!" Ami asked shocked and exasperated.

"Nonononono! This time it's not a Bandicoot that he was going to deploy in the last Warp Room." She responded nervously. "Instead, last time I checked, it's a really big rat that we're probably going to fight against this time. Or, is it an Opossum?" Nina asked, more herself than Ami. "Nevertheless, if I know Brio right? I'm guessing, he's deploying her… while… we're alone." That was when Nina was shocked as she could feel what's left of her color, draining from her face. "DON'T WORRY DARLING! I'M COMING!" She then yelled out, running out of the exit chamber and to the death route platform.

Ami was in hot pursuit to see what she was doing, only to then continue to run along with her when she also realized that Coco could be fighting the last minion of Brio's that could be fighting Coco in the death route, or arena. And she was also hoping that Coco would be alright as she raced Nina towards the death route platform that they remembered Coco taking to use it to join her in the death route, and save her from the minion that she could be fighting.

Meanwhile, Coco was indeed fighting a large minion of Brio's who happened to be a large helmet wearing female creature with a long Opossum-like tail, and was wearing a one piece bodysuit that had darker blue markings on it, with visible shoulder pads, while having a yellow belt, with yellow kneepads, and yellow straps on her dark boots. And she was able to notice the blonde hair sticking out from under the helmet. And she was towering over Coco, as she had a feminine frame despite the muscles that adorned her arms and legs, while glaring at her through the goggles in her helmet that hid her eyes, and she also was snarling with aggression, which had Coco feeling intimidated.

Especially since she was alone in an arena that was inside what happened to be a box made out of energy shields, and when the Opossum was trying to maul her like a bear victim. And Coco felt like she was slightly on the ropes, especially with the Gem from the Route in her pockets. And with some scratches on her and her overalls from the claws that the Opossum was able to graze her with.

Which, considering the fact that Aku Aku isn't here, she knew that she could die from whatever the Opossum would throw at her.

She just hoped that she could provoke the Opossum to knock itself out. But she was quick to get out of the stunned state, and try to attack her again. Keeping her on her toes.

Eventually, Coco ended up hearing Nina's voice, and saw that Ami and Nina was rushing to her side when they saw the Opossum, (Being able to go through the shields since it was designed to trap the friends of the gang in there too, in their attempt to save her.) which had them also intimidated. Moreso with Nina, than Ami.

"Hey Nina, remember when you said that thing looks like a large rat, or Opossum? Well that definitely looks like an Opossum." Ami said.

"And she's gonna kill all us both for the Gem after Coco." Nina said casually for a brief moment. Before she then buried her face in her hands. "And this is what happens when I betray Brio. We're toast aren't we." She then said fearfully.

"Not yet. We just need to find something to hurt it with." Ami said, assuring Nina that they're gonna live as they joined Coco in the fight.

"Hey guys, what took you both?" Coco asked, dodging more of the Opossum's attacks with them.

"We were getting to the end when we didn't get the Gem! Then Nina told me about the final Minion of Brio's, causing us to run to this route to save you from that Opossum! I guess she sensed that you were fighting her by yourself!" Ami said.

Coco felt relieved and proud that Nina's instinct of coming to protect her was on the nose in this case. She just hoped that they could free the Opossum from the helmet soon enough.

Which is why they fought back, but not too hard, since Ami felt that the Opossum they're fighting could be friendly once the helmet is off. Which Nina also thought, since she met her before her kidnapping by Brio, which she admits she might've played a part in. But she was now freeing her to make up for it by freeing her, since she no longer works for Brio.

Before the Opossum then roared a bit before charging at them, intending to ram them into the shield wall behind them. Which they dodged, hoping that she'd be slow to stop, and hit the shield with her head.

Which worked, but didn't knock her out, or break her helmet. Showing them that it was more sturdy then they thought it'd be.

So they fought the Opossum minion while they made sure not to get clobbered by the mind controlled Opossum. Which lasted for a couple minutes to at least under an hour.

All while they were at a stalemate since the Opossum was not backing down from the fight as it was charging, dodging, and even keeping up with them with surprising speed, and showing them that it ain't a mindless monster.

Especially since it quickly grew savvy of the attempts to knock it out with provoking her into running into the shield wall.

And she even had a prehensile tail, or so Ami feels.

Especially when she punched the helmet to see if she can break it. Only to then see that it was sturdier than Isabella's helmet that Crash and Coco broke. Causing the Opossum to catch her with the tail, and throw her into one of the walls of pipes. She quickly recovered though, as she got back into the fight to protect Nina and Coco.

Which they both appreciate, as they already thought of her as like a big sister to herself and Coco, even before their journey would end.

It was during the fight against the Opossum that Coco had an idea. She would break the stalemate by sneaking up on the Opossum while Ami and Nina distracts her.

As she was not too far from the Opossum, on her cue, the Opossum got knocked away by Nina and Ami doing a team punch, knocking her into Coco, as she was climbing onto her back. Now the Opossum was struggling to get Coco off as she was bucking around like a horse.

Which had both Ami, and Nina laughing at the sight, finding it to be funny to see Coco riding on the Opossum like a horse as she tried to buck Coco off. While Coco was trying to stay on as she made her way to the helmet, trying to remove it from the Opossum, having seen who they were fighting against in the arena.

Unfortunately, before she was able to make it to the helmet, the Opossum was able to grasp her with her long tail around her neck, before dragging her off of her back and to her front, where she was now putting her in a bearhug, with the intent of crushing her.

Coco's cheeks were puffed up to save her air, as Ami and Nina quickly stopped laughing, before horror overtook their amusement, as they were quickly attempting to save Coco from the Opossum. Even putting in some punches onto the Opossum.

But it was like the Opossum didn't feel much pain, as she continued to try to crush Coco with more force. Much to the horror of Ami, and Nina, as they continued to try to pry the Opossum's arms off of Coco, as she could feel her face turning blue from the crushing pressure on her chest, and the low air in her lungs. "Let go! Make her… let go of me!" Coco gasped out as Nina and Ami tried to get the Opossum off of Coco to no avail.

Not only that, but with the long tail, the Opossum was able to knock both of them away into some pipes, which hurt them both and stunned Ami and Nina, as the Opossum was now grinning madly as she continued to try to squeeze the life out of Coco, who was trying to gasp in her air to hold onto until Ami and Nina were able to rescue her from her squeezing arms.

Coco could feel inky blackness at the edges of her vision though, as she felt that she could be at the end of her journey with her brother, and her new friends, and that it was gonna end in her in a body bag. She just hoped that 'if' there is gonna be any casualties, then she better be the only one that will not make it to the end, and no one else will die with her.

Just as she thought that was the end, she felt the Opossum dropping her to the ground. Causing her to gasp her air back into her lungs as she tried to recover from her lack of air in her lungs. She then saw why the Opossum dropped her to the floor.

She had a robotic fist shaped bruise on her cheek.

Which was courtesy of an enraged Nina, who punched the Opossum in the face to make her let go of Coco. And now, still in her berserker rage, she was able to get to the Opossum before beating the stuffing out of her in revenge for Coco, who was recovering from her dazed state, as well as her crushed, near breathless state.

By the time she got her wits back, she saw that Nina was not giving an inch to the Opossum who tried to fight back against the bionic goth girl, but she was too angered to care as she walloped the Opossum to unconsciousness as she continued to try to bash her until her skull was flattened, or until her robotic hands breaks, as she yelled out plenty of angry rants, as well as colorful sorts of words that Coco didn't look up in the dictionary, which had her jaw dropping. All while Ami was recovering from her stunned state before looking on in shock at what was happening when she was fully recovered.

Coco was soon by Nina's side as she stopped her from causing anymore damage to the Opossum. "Stop Nina! I'm okay! I'm here!" Coco said, trying to calm Nina down as she wailed on the Opossum.

It took some effort, but she was able to calm Nina down after some minutes of holding her back. "It's okay Nina. I'm here. I'm okay." Coco said.

Once she was out of her enraged state, Nina ended up hugging Coco close to her as she proceeded to kiss her again before hugging her close, and crying softly, feeling relieved that Coco wasn't badly hurt from the Opossum's crushing grip.

"My darling Bandicutie! Nina's so glad that you're okay." Nina said, tears flowing down her face.

"I'm glad to be okay, Nina." Coco said, assuring Nina that she'll be fine. While also blushing at the next kiss that she got.

Although she felt it getting a little hard to breathe, and she felt her chest starting to sting, obviously a sign of her bruised ribs from the bearhug, but she didn't show it to Nina, or Ami as she just made sure that the Opossum is unconscious, and still alive despite the assault that Nina did to her.

Once they were sure that the Opossum was okay, they got the helmet off before the Opossum would regain consciousness and resume the fight against them, causing her to shrink down until it was now just around Ami's height, and also showing them that she's dirty blond haired, with a pair of messy pigtails on the sides of her head that stuck out of her pink hat that was under the helmet. Which was when Ami recovered and got to Coco. "Coco! Are you okay?!"

"I'll be fine. I just need a moment." Coco said, collapsing on the ground to catch her breath, and shake off the injury to her ribs from the crushing bearhug that the Opossum did while wearing the helmet, while they also waited for the Opossum to recover from having her helmet removed from her head.

It didn't take too long, as the Opossum was now getting up. "Ow, geez. Ah sure feel that I ain't goin wild in the next shindig after this." The now normal Opossum said as she rose up, showing the trio that she was speaking in a southern accent. "And ah thought that the beaker to the dome was the most painful thing ah took on the racetrack."

The Opossum then looked at her surroundings. Not noticing the fading bruise on her cheek. "That's odd, ah don't remember walking to this room. What's goin-" Then she looked at Nina, Ami, and Coco. "Oh, hey there, ah'm Pasadena O'Possum. And ah'm a racer, and a great one at that. And a mascot for Ebenezer Von Clutch. Who're you fellas?"

Then the Opossum, now known as Pasadena took a look at Nina, and was surprised. "Hey wait a second, weren't you the goth girl that I spoke to back in Motorworld? Dina, is it?"

"It's Nina. And yes. I remember seeing you on the racetrack back there. You were amazing." Nina said, now calmed from her anger of what almost happened to Coco, and was reminding herself that Pasadena was just being controlled.

Which delighted Pasadena at what she was told. "Why thank you, little goth girl." She said, rubbing the back of her head. "And who're your friends?"

"I'm Ami. This is Coco." Ami said, introducing themselves.

"I'm guessing that you were brought here against your will, considering the helmet that we got off." She then said, gesturing to the helmet that laid near the Opossum's foot.

Which had her putting two and two together as she was shocked at what she was shown. "OH MY! Ah'm so sorry! I didn't know that I was a monster that tried to eat y'all! Ah hope y'all can forgive me." She said, ashamed of her actions while mind controlled.

"It's okay. You weren't in control due to Brio putting that darn helmet on you." Coco said, calming her down regardless of her pained state. But she knows she can recover from the near crushing squeeze.

"And now you're free from him thanks to us." Nina said.

Pasadena ended up getting excited and joyous at what she heard as she put her arms around Nina and Ami as she twirled them around. "Oh, I thank y'all for the rescue! Von Clutch could be worried sick that I'm not at his park no more! And I would've been powerless to come back to him if you didn't free me!" Pasadena said, happy that she's herself again.

"N-No problem." Ami said.

As Nina also didn't mind the hug on her, she just prefers it when Coco was the one to hug her.

Speaking of whom, she was able to recover from the crushing as she stood back up, feeling glad to see that they freed Pasadena from Brio, thus freeing Brio's final minion from his control. Now he has no one left to attack them with. Other than himself.

Which Coco doubts he would be willing to do such, unless he turns into the green monstrous version of himself again, or intercepts them in a mech like N. Gin, and Nina did. Although Coco has doubts that he would, considering what happened last time he did.

"Now, we must finish our time here, and return to the room where more of our friends could be." Coco said, recovering from her rib pains.

"Mah thoughts exactly. I wonder who your friends are, and why you guys are here though." Pasadena said.

Which lead to them explaining why they were on this journey, and why the Bandicoot girls were freed, while they ran forward once Coco was fully recovered, and when the energy shields were shut down. All while they continued to break the boxes throughout the route, destroyed the robots that tried to harm them, as well as the scientist minions of Brio's, and they avoided more of the shrink ray traps that tried to hit them.

Which Pasadena was able to absorb, and she was considering whether to join up with Cortex to get back at Brio, or swallow her dislike for Brio, and fight against Cortex if he plans to zap Earth with the intention of doing something bad with it, and not with the intention of destroying Brio's hideout and laser.

She was leaning towards Brio though, considering that Coco wants Brio to win, since he seemed to be the lesser of the two evils, and Cortex seemed to be lying to them about saving the Earth, just so he'll defeat Brio, and then zap it to either destroy it, turn it into a wasteland, or to control everybody on it.

How little she knew, how correct she was.

"Do you understand now? We must stop Cortex, even if we need Brio's help to do it." Coco said.

"Ah understand completely. It was mighty rude of Brio to kidnap me and turn me into… that, when I wore the helmet. But I'm guessing that Cortex is worse in this journey. Ah just hope that after this, I'm going back to mah boss." Pasadena said.

"Tell you what, we can help find your boss and help you return to him once this journey is done. Then we can help send you back to him while we give Ami and her friends a home." Coco said.

"You'd do that? Why thank you Coco. Ah'm sure Von Clutch would be mighty grateful for your help." She said happily, feeling glad that her new friends would return her to her boss.

"No problem." Coco said.

Once the explanations were complete, they were at the end of the level as they entered the exit chamber, got the box Gem, before stepping onto the podium that sent them all back to the Warp Room.

They felt their journey getting close to ending, and they felt that it was gonna get pretty hard, yet interesting from her on out.

Chapter Text

"HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA-HEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEH!"

"WOOO-HOOO! This is awesome!" Tawna said.

"No kidding! Questo è divertente! (This is fun!)" Isabella said.

All of whom was in the Rock It level, which was a different sort of level from the others.

The major reason being was that it was a level where they were all flying around in a space station, due to the jetpacks that they were wearing on their backs.

When they first entered the level, they at first thought that they would have some more jumping to do, only that time, on a space station with plenty of looking out to see space. Only for them to immediately see three pads in the center of the room that had a large blast door in front of them. Along with some notes from Cortex, that told them that they require something to use for the level they were in. So they had to stand on those pads to gain those items.

Which they did, causing some walls to appear around them after rising from the floor, after some alarms went off. Which was a cue that the door was gonna open. Then suddenly, gravity turned off as they had some jetpacks put on their backs, along with some helmets, and goggles to protect their eyes. Now they were flying around in the rooms for practice, and fun.

Especially for fun later on, as they got the hang of the jetpacks.

Not only that, but they were still indoors, and not in outer space. Which means that even though there was zero gravity, they still had air to breathe, so none of them would suffocate inside where they were flying. Which is good, since with Aku Aku gone, they'd be screwed.

But they didn't think about that too much, since Tawna, Isabella, and Crash was flying around in the room, breaking the boxes, and having fun.

Although, like last time in their journey, there was hazards to avoid, like the orange lasers that they were sure would be hot enough to turn them to ash, as well as the red ones from the laser dishes that made lasers in either the diagonal lines, or the cross. Which they also had to avoid.

There was also some glowing red pipes that obviously means that they're hot to the touch. Which would hurt to touch them as Crash found out the hard way one time. Which had him putting out his burning hand, the same way he put out Coco's burning shoe back in Road to Ruin. Which is by putting it in his mouth to put it out while the smoke billowed out his ears.

Then there was the lab assistant minions of Cortex and Brio's, who was trying to stop them too, as they floated around the doors that was blocked by some sort of energy barriers, as they too had jetpacks.

Which Crash fought against by spinning against one of them, knocking him back, and closer to a barrier of fire that was blocking the closed door through the path. And Crash was going to follow up with his spin move when the Minion suddenly electrified his gloves.

And Tawna was too late to stop Crash, as he got shocked by the minion, making both her, and Isabella cringe at the sight. They've seen him get shocked before, but it still is a painful sight regardless. Especially since they too got shocked before.

Crash floated in the air with a dazed look on his face after the shock is done, just as Tawna spun away the scientist again in revenge for Crash's behalf.

Where the minion ended up screaming as he collided with the barrier, causing him to be vaporized from touching it, and for some reason, the barrier ended up vanishing while the door behind it, opened. Which they guessed, was because the minion had a switch for the barrier in his pockets, which got destroyed when they knocked him into the barrier, causing it to turn off from the lack of connection from the switch, while opening the large door too.

After that, and after Crash proving again, that he's probably made of iron, they all continued onwards through the zero gravity halls while having fun along the way.

Especially when Tawna and Crash end up flying together as they break the boxes alongside Isabella. Holding hands, and twirling in the air together, and taking in the views of space when they come across some glass halls that gives them views of Outer Space. While sometimes doing some upside down pecking kisses, like with Tawna kissing some of the electric burns on Crash's fur.

They even made out while in the air as they looked on at the Earth with smiles for a couple minutes, just taking in the view of space, and Earth. Whether they were both right side up, or upside down, they were making out, just for a bit of fun with each other as they smiled at each other. They were like dolphins, that was having fun with each other, if they were in space that is.

And like last time, Isabella looked on in envy. As she too had the hots for Crash, regardless of him, not having the looks of the model from a magazine. Instead, he just looked goofy in a good way, and he looked like he could make her laugh like he likely did with Tawna. Which established that she started to love him like Tawna does. So she thought about a way to get Crash into her bosom.

But how?

They ended up meeting another lab assistant minion, that this time, Tawna spun into until he hit the barrier, making it vanish, and opening a door, where they saw another hazard. A pair of wires that was flopping around up and down, while also making sparks, signaling to them that they're electrifying wires.

Which begs the question. Did Brio try to sabotage Cortex's space station, and was only able to get this far in? Or was Cortex's mechanics not doing their job? They didn't know.

But they didn't think about it as they just avoided the wires without too much trouble. They just didn't care about the space station's shape since it's Cortex's, not theirs.

Then they came across two hazards. One being the Nitro crates that they hate, and the other being four floating, blinking, spiked, red-lighted mines that floated around in circles. They were also moving closer together when they move towards the center of the hall to block the center, then spreading out as they move away from the center. Which makes it a little hard to keep track of the mines, and where to go to avoid them.

But it wasn't hard to move through the center to avoid them when they spread outwards. Before carefully floating back to break a single box that was surrounded on its side by Nitro boxes.

Then they proceeded to avoid the orange laser, and knock another minion into another barrier to deactivate it. Which didn't take too much trouble since they learned from Crash's mistake, and avoided his electric touch.

Then they proceeded forward, continuing to fly with the jetpacks together as Tawna continued to grin alongside Crash at the view of space. They even saw the view of Earth from space, and they all thought that Earth still looked beautiful. With Isabella also smiling at the scenic view of space. If only Crash was near her though.

Suddenly, they moved at least ten meters when they moved through an opening door, when they saw that the next room that they were entering after taking down the next lab assistant minion, had a lot of Nitro boxes inside of it. Thankfully, there was a gap in between them that they decided to move through in a single file, with Crash leading the way.

And unluckily for Tawna, he lead them, with Isabella behind him when she was fast enough to make it behind him before her. Which she was not expecting, and not happy about, but she knew that fighting her for the position would end badly with the Nitro boxes, so she put her fist back down by her side when she raised it and was prepared to fight her for the position.

Immediately after they got through the boxes, and got into the next room, they saw that there was a Crystal in the room, much to their disappointment, and delight. The former, both because they were still not fond of Cortex, and because their pretty fun ride on the jetpacks could be ending soon, and for the latter, because they were getting closer to stopping Brio from winning himself, if he was going to use the Gems for more bad purposes than Coco claimed, and is going to stab them in the back.

They'll be getting their answer soon though.

Suddenly, as they were headed to the Crystal, a creature ended up ambushing them. It looked like a mix of an Electric Eel, and the monster from the Creature of the Black Lagoon that they watched with Coco on the Laptop.

It was a Titan, known as the Eel-ectric.

"Oh crap! Is that another Titan?!" Tawna called out, noticing that it was a hostile creature that was trying to shock them. Which had Crash also looking on in surprise, and horror.

"Che importa?! (Who cares?!) It's going to kill us!" Isabella said fearfully, seeing that it was attacking them with the electric shots, out of its hands. Which made it more dangerous since it had ranged attacks to kill them with.

Tawna, and Crash was quick to dodge the attacks that the Titan threw out, alongside Isabella, as they saw it firing electricity at them in bolts. All while they dodged, and had to plan on how to get past it, grab the Crystal, and either escape from its wrath, or defeat it to proceed.

As they dodged around the Eel-ectric though, the latter was becoming more of an important option since the Titan was blocking the way forward, and it was due to standing in front of the Barrier that they might need to break to go onwards.

And even though the Jetpacks were maneuverable, and fun to use in the low gravity hall, they weren't capable of making sharper turns. And they weren't particularly strong when it came to stopping the Bandicoots into place. It was like trying to stop a car instantly, while driving over slick, rainwater covered roads. Or, like trying to instantly stop a boat while treading fast over water.

A fact that the Eel-ectric could exploit if it knew what to do in that situation they're in.

Thankfully, it was just shooting wildly without any aiming, so far at least, as they kept on flying around it. Trying to see if they could find a weakness to defeating it.

Thankfully, they were able to spin into it to knock it away closer to the barrier, (And away from the Crystal, that they quickly took too.) showing them that they can beat it like with the lab assistants, by knocking it into a barrier to defeat it.

Not only that, but Crash decided to spin one of the bolts with Tawna, deflecting it back at the Titan, which caused it to get stunned by the shot, causing them to take advantage of the stun, with Isabella knocking the Titan away from them, and closer to the barrier, before it recovered to shoot out more of the bolts.

Only that time, it used a different attack, which was a lightning bolt that was too fast to spin back at the Titan, which they were barely able to dodge. But it needed to charge that attack up when it fired it, which gave them a sign to move fast to avoid it, which gave them time to get to the Titan to spin it away again.

It wasn't too long until they were able to knock it into the barrier, defeating it, and turning it off so they can proceed onwards through the halls of the space station. Where they would find more boxes to destroy, on their way to the box Gem.

Only for them to get ambushed by another Eel-ectric, that was in front of another barrier, that blocked what they saw was the end of the level that they were going towards. And this one was just as determined to take them down before they reach the end of the hall.

They were just as determined to get to the end though, as they were able to dodge the electric bolts that it fires out of its hands.

Unfortunately though, it started to show that it was a smarter Eel-ectric that seemed to have learned from the previous Titan, where it was now shooting out the bolts to where they were going to fly to. Which, since their jetpacks couldn't stop in time, they were in huge danger of getting zapped due to the packs getting slow to stop.

Which caused Tawna to get grazed by the bolt on her hair, causing it to shock just her hair, and cause it to get fuzzy like an Afro. Much to Isabella's amusement as she had to stifle her laughter.

Which was instantly erased when she saw that another bolt from the Eel-ectric was headed her way, and she didn't have enough time to get out of the way since the jet pack also wasn't strong enough to instantly move her around in the low gravity halls. And she was going to get zapped, which could mean that she isn't going to return to the Warp Room, unless both Tawna and Crash drags her there in a body bag to pay their last respects to her.

Could this be the end of her? Is this what she gets, for trying to win Crash over to her side? She didn't know. All she knew is that she might not see her friends again. Alive at least.

Or so it seemed to her, as she suddenly saw Crash in front of her, as he blocked the shot that was headed towards her, and he was just in time to spin it back, regardless of having suffered some zapping himself. Now the bolt was sent back to the Eel-ectric, stunning it.

Which was much to Isabella's surprise as she ended up looking on in shock. "Lui mi ha salvato. Lui… realmente mi ha salvato. (He saved me. He… actually saved me.)" Isabella thought in surprise.

She then saw Tawna striking back against the stunned Eel-ectric Titan, spinning it closer to the Barrier. Isabella wasted no time in helping her defeat the Titan for Crash too, as they both spun into it.

Which was enough to have it hit the barrier, defeating the Titan, and taking down the barrier by short circuiting it like with the previous one, leaving nothing in between the end of the hall, and them.

But first, Isabella flew quickly to Crash's side, hoping he was alright.

He was. Just a bit stunned from the electricity, but he'll live, as he looked at Isabella in relief that he was able to save her. As was Isabella herself.

"You saved my life Crashie. Grazie (Thank you.)" She said, before giving him a kiss on his snout, much to his and Tawna's shock. Especially Tawna.

Then she was turning to where they would be exiting, only to stop in place, then a grin appeared on her face. Before she turned back to Crash, and kissed him deeply on the lips, shocking Tawna and Crash even more.

The latter also blushed at what she did, since he didn't expect her to be bold enough to kiss him like that. And in front of his girlfriend too. He didn't try to push her away due to his shock, and since he still liked Isabella.

He doesn't know if he'd like her as more than a friend later on though, since he still has Tawna, and he still loves her too much to let Isabella take him from her.

Once she was done with the kissing, Isabella continued to smile at him. "Chiamami un giorno. (Call me someday.)" She said, flying towards the end of the hall past Tawna. "Whatcha looking at?" She teasingly asked her, as she floated to the end platform with Crash not far behind after he just shrugged and followed behind her with Tawna still not far behind.

Whom was now glaring daggers into the Italian Bandicoot's back as she followed them, and took off her own jetpack. Then noticing her swaying her hips to Crash as he set off the Nitro detonation crate, (Who didn't notice that as he followed her.) as they were headed into the exit chamber. "That… BITCH!" She thought, not willing to let her take Crash from her, that easily.

For now though, they were getting the box Gem, then exiting the level, as victors.

The (Currently) Quartet was in the dark jungle path, like in Totally Fly, as they made sure to use the fireflies to light their way, as they jogged through the path in the jungle..

"Blimey, I wish Brio gave us a flashlight, cause it's dark in this jungle." Liz said.

"No argument there. The dark jungles give me the creeps! And I ain't even afraid of the dark in general." Yaya said, feeling relieved that the fireflies were illuminating the path that they're taking. While she rode on Polar, whom was trotting with the (Currently) Quartet to keep up with them. As well as Megumi, who was leading the way with her own firefly.

But ignoring the darkness, they saw that the jungle looked pretty. With the jungle trees, the purple mushrooms with white spots, (That they wouldn't dare eat, as they looked toxic.) and the Mesoamerican architecture that littered the jungle path that they were on, did show off the jungle's beauty in the night time. They wondered if it'd be more pretty if it was daytime.

But they didn't dwell on that, as they kept on running through the jungle with the fireflies that was following them, making sure not to fall into a pit, or get mauled by some giant rats that they spun away, or which Yaya clobbered with her kung fu. While they also broke all of the boxes that the Firefly would illuminate.

As they ran forward, they noticed Liz looking at Polar, like she was inwardly going squee at his cuteness. Which they noticed her doing earlier when she first saw Polar, shortly before their battle against Nina's mech. And she was doing it now. Guess she also thought that Polar was adorable.

Not that they blame her, as they all thought that Polar looked adorable. Even Nina thought so about the bear, which is why she didn't try to directly attack him, not counting having shot some nets that trapped him too. But he was able to get out due to his size.

Same could be said for Megumi, Isabella, Coco, and even Yaya herself. She was pretty happy that she's on his back as she rode him through the jungles, while Polar also didn't mind having her on his back as he carefully trotted through the jungle so that the (Currently) Quartet would keep up with him.

The jungle suddenly had a split in the path, one of which had a death route platform on the left, that one of them would take to get the route's Gem, while the right happened to be the normal path.

After some debating, "I'll go!" Yaya said as she decided to go to the death route, with Polar, as they took the death platform to the left path. As Yaya was also preparing to defend Polar from harm, like back in Totally Fly with Megumi with her.

"See you later Yaya! Be careful!" Ami said.

Yaya kept it in mind as she floated off to the left path while still on Polar's back. "Don't worry Polar. Your big sis will protect you." Yaya would say, patting his head.

Which Polar appreciates. As he also liked Yaya for being so friendly to him, alongside the others in the gang.

Once the death platform was at the beginning of the route, Yaya and Polar moved onwards as they braced themselves for the hazards that was going to be illuminated by the firefly that was following them.

Like the robots with a submarine like eye stalk, along with spinning blades, and a light below them that illuminated the ground. Sorta like some UFO's in the sky, at least according to the movies that she watched, only they were a little more round instead of disc shaped.

They couldn't be directly beaten easily due to having spinning blades, but they were merely patrolling left and right, which made them easy to avoid as both Polar and Yaya moved past them by moving in the opposite direction past them when they move left, or right.

While Yaya fought against the giant rats, and the frilled lizards with her slide kicks for the latter, since that's their weakness, as Tawna, and Coco took advantage of, back in Road to Ruin.

And now she was doing the same thing, while protecting Polar. It's what she'd do, like a big sister for a little brother.

She just needed to be cautious since the firefly that was following her isn't bright enough to illuminate a lot of the path that she was taking.

Particularly the enemies that she was protecting Polar from as they both went onwards through the death route taking down the giant rats, and the frilled lizards that she continued to slide kick away.

As she went onwards, she slide kicked away one of the frilled lizards when she suddenly saw the route's Gem that was on a spire that was in the middle of a bottomless pit. And it looked like it was far enough that she was unable to jump to it on her own. Which caused her to gulp in nervousness when she saw just how challenging the death route was being, at least when it came to collecting that particular Gem.

She wasn't gonna give up on that though, as she had to stop and think for a bit. Something that she didn't do often enough due to her energy. But she'd rather be able to make it back to the gang in one piece, alongside Polar.

That was when she was reminded that Polar could be pretty fast for a bear cub, according to Tawna, and Crash, and as she saw for herself when she rode on it with Megumi in Totally Bear.

And even though she was nervous about how pretty little the spire's flat surface was, she felt that Polar could make it with her on his back. She just hopes that he's brave enough to try.

Easier said than done though, when she saw that Polar was nervous about the jump. And she couldn't blame him in this case, since the platform was barely illuminated by the firefly that was with them. And it looked tiny to where even if Polar was able to land on it, he'd be unable to stop just in time before he could fall into the pit with Yaya.

Which had him whimpering in nervousness about the risky jump he'd make.

"Don't be scared. Yaya will make sure that neither of us will fall into the darkness." She said, petting Polar on his head. "In fact, maybe we could try this out." She said, before explaining to Polar what he could do if he takes the leap.

Polar still felt hesitant about it, but he was feeling more willing to do it, as he was putting his trust into Yaya. So he still felt nervous, but he decided to go through with it to get the Gem, regardless of his nervousness.

Polar proceeded to nod. "GREAT! I mean, wonderful! Now, let's get ourselves ready to jump." Yaya said smiling as she got back on Polar's back again.

Before he then walked back through the path for a minute to get a running start, only to then see one of the frilled lizards that was walking to them, ready to bite them both. Causing him to run back towards the pit out of fear, much to Yaya's surprise.

Which then turned to horror when she saw that the bear she rode, wasn't going to stop as he ran like the wind towards the pit. "WAIT! STOP! IT'S OKAY! DON'T BE SCARED! THERE'S- Ooh I can't look!" She said, realizing that he was going to jump to the spire, regardless of her trying to control him. So she covered her eyes, thinking that they might end up in the pit, either because Polar undershot, or overshot the spire with the Gem, or would slip off of it even if he landed on the spire.

Only for him to surprise her when he not only jumped to where he was able to land on the spire, to get the Gem, but he then bounced off of the spire and to the other side of the pit, much to his own surprise. But he had a different matter to worry about.

When she opened her eyes, she ended up noticing that she isn't in the dark pit, but rather back on the dirt. After seeing that the pit was behind both Polar and herself, she was going to celebrate when she noticed that Polar was hacking. Almost like he had something in his throat. "Are you okay Polar? What's wrong?" She asked.

Polar couldn't speak as he continued to hack up a storm. Until he then coughed out something that left Yaya feeling grossed out after she patted his back to help him spit out the obstruction.

Being a grey Gem.

Much to Yaya's pleasant surprise, Polar got the gray Gem with his mouth, even if it's an accident. But accident or not, Yaya was happy.

"WOO-HOOOO! YEAH! That's a good bear!" She said, jumping around in excitement as she twirled Polar around, not that he minded. "You got the Gem for me! Who's a good bear? Who's a good bear? You are. You are." She then said, petting Polar on his head, much to his delight as he smiled at her.

Even though the Gem had some slobber on it, it was worth it, as Yaya took the Gem after wiping the slobber off, and proceeded forward through the path with Polar, to see if she'll reunite with the other gang, or at least to see if her path would reunite with the normal path and make it one path again.

Thankfully, it did.

Now she was waiting with Polar on the path where they should meet back up with the rest of the (Currently) Quartet once they were done on the path to the right.

Meanwhile, Liz and Megumi was in the bonus room, making sure to break the boxes, and making sure that neither of them touches the Nitro boxes that loitered the room as well. And even Megumi had to face it. The Nitro boxes were a pain due to exploding at the smallest of touches, as they saw happen to Crash a few times.

At least they had a light source in the power Crystal that they got before hand.

"I'm gonna be so happy to be done with this if it means that I won't see more of these things afterwards." Liz said annoyed.

Megumi didn't argue in the slightest, as she lead Liz through the now dark room since their firefly got bored, and flew away forward through the room to the exit platform. Which left them in the dark of the bonus room, much to their chagrin.

They were now past the Nitro crates, but they now needed to jump some gaps between the platforms that lead to the exit of the bonus room.

Even though it was dark, they were barely able to see through the dark to where to go. Which is why Megumi had to make sure that they were going to land on the platform where luckily for them, is where the exit bonus platform was.

"Where's that bloomin platform, Megumi? I swear, there better not be any predators getting ready to kill us." Liz said, nervous of the jungle.

"Don't worry Elizabeth-chan, we'll make it." Megumi said, as she got ready to jump with Liz.

They soon jumped, hoping that they wouldn't end up falling into the bottomless put. Thankfully, they were able to make it to the platform. Now they celebrated as they took the platform out of the room, and back to the jungle path. Where luckily for them, another firefly was waiting.

Which was much to their joy as they had they got the firefly to follow them through the path, hoping to get to Yaya. Which, they ended up running into when the path united. "So, what took you both?" She asked.

"A certain bastard of a firefly just up and left us in the bonus room, making it dark. You have no idea, how hard it is to jump to a safe place in the dark." Liz said annoyed.

"At least we were able to see the Nitro boxes in the dark, since they were glowing." Megumi said, letting Yaya know that even in the dark, she could see the Nitro boxes. Much to her relief.

"At least we're getting out of this jungle now. Let's just make sure we have the Nitro detonation switch flipped when we get to the end." Liz said, noting the switches that explodes the Nitro boxes, which counts as breaking them all for the box Gem.

Now they were running through the jungle, killing the frilled lizards, avoiding the robots, and destroying the boxes, until they reached the end. Much to their joy, the Nitro switch was there, as they then pressed its button, causing them to hear a bunch of booms in the distance, before entering the exit chamber, where much to their relief, a box Gem awaited them. Before they then collected it, and exited the dark jungle level.

Back in the Warp Room, a few people were waiting, being Nina, Ami, and Pasadena. The reason being was that Coco decided to take on the next to last level of the room, being Pack Attack, telling them that she needed to grab the Gem from that level, as well as check on her computer for something, and that she'll return to do the last one once the gang unites. Now they were in the room by themselves, and waiting for her to finish the Pack Attack level so that they can finish the last one.

Nina was confident that Coco would return alive, but she was also worried, considering her injury, courtesy of Pasadena's crushing bearhug that could've ended her there, had she been unable to free Coco. But she was trusting Coco to be alive when she returns to the room.

Right now though, they noticed that someone got out of the portal. Which was Tawna, Crash, and Isabella, that left the portal with the Gem, and Crystal gained from the jetpack level.

"Hello again Ami, where's Coco?" Tawna asked.

"She's taking on the next to last portal. She told us to wait for her here in case you're wondering why we're not with her there." Ami said.

"She said she had somethin to do over there. Dun know what it is though." Pasadena said. "Who're you by the way?"

Tawna, Crash, and Isabella was surprised to see that they have what could be their final member of the gang before the journey's end. Possibly cause of her freedom from Brio's control. Which did have them wondering if she was the very final minion of Brio's that was freed, leaving him with nothing to order around, or protect him. But they didn't think about it too much.

"I'm Tawna. This is Isabella, and Crash." She said, pointing at them as they waved in greeting. "We're from the Wumpa Islands. Well, me, Crash, and Coco are from there by the way." She said.

"Nice to meet you all. I'm Pasadena O'Possum. I'm a racer of Motor World. I'm sure that you've heard of that competition, have y'all?"

"Motor World? You mean that extreme racing show that had plenty of karts getting destroyed?" Tawna said, having watched some of the show with Coco on her laptop.

"That's the one. And ah was a great racer of that show, and I was named as the official mascot too, courtesy of Von Clutch. At least, until ah got kidnapped." She said.

"Let me guess. Brio took you." Tawna said.

"Why yes. And it's cause he wants me back to upgrade me to use against you guys. Even though I used to be his mutation that he kicked outta his team when ah didn't live up to his expectations."

Tawna felt bad for her, having been kicked out by Brio, and left to fend for herself. As was the rest of the gang, especially Nina.

"Then ah became a racer for Von Clutch's motor world. It was pretty fun." She then said, smiling.

Tawna, along with Isabella, and Crash, smiled at that, feeling relieved that Pasadena was given a life, as well as a job for herself.

"Say, once you ya'll is done with this here journey, mind if we let ya'll race with us? Ah'm sure that Von Clutch would be grateful for my safety." Pasadena asked.

Tawna, Ami, and Isabella had to think about it for a minute. After all, they did like seeing some races on Coco's laptop, (While Isabella saw the racing channel with Ami, Liz, and Megumi, back in Brio's new hideout, before they got helmeted.) and they did imagine themselves on the racetrack during those moments. So an offer like this was tempting. In fact, they even thought about a name for their little squad that they would form together, with Tawna also a part of it, if they go through with racing with her.

"We'll think about it." She decided to say. Before more of the gang ended up entering the room.

Which was when Liz, Megumi, and Yaya, saw Pasadena, introduced themselves to each other, while Yaya introduced Polar to her, and was given a request to try out some racing, before giving out the same response, feeling that they can do the racing once they're ready. But all of them were interested in trying it out. Ami especially.

After that, the gang decided to wait for Coco to come back to the room, before taking on the final level of the room.

As they did though, Pasadena was looking at Crash. "So you must be Crash, aren't ya?" Crash nodded in response to her question, making her smile. "Ah admit, you are a cutie yourself. Got a girlfriend? Or can I be yours?" She then said flirtatiously, making him blush.

"HE HAS ONE, AND IT'S ME!" Both Tawna and Isabella yelled out to her, making her flinch.

Then they realized who else said the same thing. And that had them both glaring daggers at each other. Much to the horror of the rest of the gang.

"You say he's yours?! He rescued me first!" Tawna said.

"He saved me too! Not every first love gets the girl first! Or in this case, the man! Because he's mine!" Isabella responded.

"He's mine first! Not some Italian racer bimbo's. Besides, what makes you think he's gonna be attracted to you?"

"We look alike, in terms of beauty, for starters. Only I'm the more elegant blonde Bandicoot. Meanwhile, you're the Bimba! (Bimbo!)" She responded.

"Bimba?!" Tawna said indignantly, feeling that Isabella just called her what she thinks she's being called. "What's to stop you from being lured away from Crash by a 'handsome and dashing' sort of guy?!"

"What's to stop you from doing the same thing?! Judging by your aspetto da troia! (Slutty appearance!)" Isabella responded, grinning on the last part.

Which made the moment tense between them, much to the gang's dread.

"I may not understand what the last part was, but I'm certain that they're fighting words." Tawna angrily, yet softly said, ready to roll up her sleeves as she cracked her knuckles.

"Of course they are. I may have forgotten to tell you, that I know how boxing works! And I was called the marsupiale furioso, (Raging Marsupial) by even Cortex himself! Mind if I show you why? Winner keeps all after all!" She then said.

"So be it then! Let's settle this once and for all!" She then said, circling the room close to Isabella.

All while the gang was scared that a catfight was about to happen. All while Pasadena looked on in both nervousness, and confusion. "What'd ah do to cause that?" She asked.

But just before they could come to blows, (Beginning with grabbing each other's shirts.) and before the gang could try to stop them, the room got dark again. Putting the fight on hold for now as they looked up, to see if Brio, or Cortex, or Coco would appear on their hologram.

Soon, Cortex ended up appearing. "Am I interrupting something?" He asked, noticing that Isabella, and Tawna was close to each other, almost like they were about to do some sort of 'untoward' thing to each other, judging by their shirt grabs. "Either way, I have good news. I have finally found where Brio is hiding. And now I plan to take him from his hide out for his just desserts." He then said smiling.

"Seriously? That's good. That means he's unable to use that laser for bad purposes. Even though he's probably just using it against you, and nothing else." Ami quietly said the last part, yet she's glad to see that Brio is found. "We're kinda in the middle of something here though, so may you come at a later time once you're done with him?"

"Actually, I just thought I'd give you all a gift, from me. Just think of this, as my sign of gratitude for the Crystals that you're all about to grab all of. And hopefully, an assurance that I have your trust, regardless of what I've done in the past, and what I've done to Nina."

"And what is that?" Isabella, and Tawna asked.

"Why Brio himself, brought to you all on a silver platter. That's right, I'm teleporting him to your location, so that you can finally punish him for being a thorn on your sides throughout your journeys for the Crystals. Hope you enjoy your prize." He said, grinning as he tried not to giggle.

Then suddenly, someone was teleported to the room that they were in. Which they then saw, was Brio himself. Who was looking around, wondering why he's there. "W-What's going on? Why a-am I here? I should be at-" He said, only to see the gang in the room with him.

Which had him terrified at the sight of them, as they then looked back at him with confusion on their faces. Then they started to have grins that basically told him that they were gonna be out for revenge against him, and he'd be powerless to stop it as they get to have fun with his punishment.

"On second thought, how about we put our fight on hold. And give Brio what he deserves. Then we finish it back on the islands." Tawna said.

"Hehehehe! Sono d'accordo. (I agree.) Let's." Isabella then said, as she cracked her knuckles, this time, intending to use them on Brio himself as he was backing away from a pissed off gang of Bandicoots. (And Polar Bear, and Panda. While Nina, and Pasadena covered their eyes at what was about to happen.) Regardless of his need for the Gems, and what they perceive as the lesser of two evils in him, he still tried to kill them. So what's to stop them from returning the favor?

D-Don't k-kill me! I swear! None of you gave me any choice! You kept on collecting Crystals for that mad scientist! I just needed to stop you, I DID WHAT I HAD TO DO!" Brio said, scared of the impending beatdown.

None of the gang was willing to let him go that easily though. "And it's too bad that you went down that route, instead of outright warning us of what Cortex would do instead. And now you failed. Prepare yourself for your just due reward." Tawna said, with the bandicoot girls in agreement.

"WAIT! D-DON'T TRUST HIM! Y-YOU G-G-GOTTA BELIEVE ME! I'M NOT A BAD G-GUY T-T-T-THIS T-T-TIME! HE IS! I S-S-SWEAR!" Brio yelled out. Horrified at what was gonna happen to him.

"It's no use Brio. They can't be talked down now, and you have only yourself to blame for their misery, and for your betrayal. Now know your place like the rest of the other losers, and take your defeat with your remaining dignity. Because there's no getting out of this, and I have you all to thank for it." He then smiled evilly at him, and the gang.

Only to then get startled as sounds of static was made, causing him to look around. "N. Gin, what's going on?!" He said, turning his head to behind him. "What?! What do you mean? Is she actually stealing our signal-" He tried to ask, only for his hologram to disappear, making the gang look up, startled at his hologram vanishing, and stopping their impending beatdown on Brio.

Then suddenly, Coco's hologram appeared in his place. And she looked horrified. "CRASH! TAWNA! Listen, Cortex isn't using the Crystals to destroy Brio's world dominating laser, he's going to harness their power to charge his super Cortex Vortex that he built on his space station! And one blast from that ray would cover the whole planet, and turn everyone affected by it into his mindless slaves! Please, don't let him get those Crystals-" Coco said as her hologram faded out.

What she just said on the hologram, had all of the gang looking up at where she was, in pure shock and horror. They did have a feeling that Cortex was up to something, but what he was exactly going to do, was what they didn't expect. And what's worse, is that their gut feeling of what he was planning to do to Earth, was on the money. He was indeed going to zap it, but instead of trying to destroy Brio's hideout like he said he would, he was doing something more sinister than they thought he would.

And all this time, even though Brio tried to kill them, he was indeed, not the villain of this journey. As Coco continuously told them.

Cortex was, instead.

Speaking of whom. "N. Gin you fool! She's telling them everything!" He yelled out to his henchman as his hologram reappeared in the room. Which was where he noticed that he was back. "Oh, uh, yes, w-were back now. Pardon the… interruption. So, what was I saying? Oh yes. Once you're all done with Brio, bring me the remaining Crystals. And your rewards will be grand. Ta-ta for now." He then said, before his hologram vanished, ending the transmission.

The gang was still looking on in shock until the hologram was gone. That was when they ended up feeling both Horror, for having nearly given Cortex the Crystals, (even though they had only two left so far,) and remorse, for having nearly given the Crystals to their true enemy, who was still their foe, and they didn't know it until now.

And they thought that Brio was their true foe. Whom, was currently feeling relief going through his mind as he was now standing back up.

"Y-You were… telling the t-truth? He… had more sinister purposes, all this time?" Tawna asked.

"Indeed. You see, when I h-heard of what his p-p-plans are for Earth, I k-knew that he was crossing the line in doing this. Sure w-we have done plenty of evil things before your b-boyfriend defeated us, and h-h-had me d-d-destroying our old f-f-fortress by m-mistake, but I had standards." He said, still feeling uncomfortable of his part in the fortress's destruction.

"Which is why, we had a f-falling out. In reality, he double crossed me, and left me in the dust after stealing some of my work, when I refused to be part of his plans. That's the true reason why I-I had to do w-w-what I did. It was to ensure t-that he doesn't g-get the r-required Crystals, should you all fail to see reason, and s-s-stop collecting those Crystals, back in the first Warp room." He then said. "The only reason why I have seemed to have failed, was because I have underestimated your determination for saving the world, as well as how skilled you are, in protecting each other. Which I admire, if I'm to be honest." Brio then said, like he was verbally tipping his hat to them.

All while they absorbed the info together, and felt ashamed that they nearly put the world in danger because of giving the evil Scientist the Crystals. At least they have only one left that they could've grabbed for him. (If Coco grabs one from the Pack Attack level.) Which left them feeling quite thankful to Coco for stopping them, from carrying out his request.

Including Nina, who was relieved that she wasn't being manipulated by Brio, as Cortex claimed she was.

And, it also stopped both Isabella, and Tawna, from fighting each other, since they felt too guilty to fight for Crash at that point.

"But if you plan on fixing this, then listen up. This platform in this room, can go up to Cortex's main room, where he should be, as we speak. Sure it may require all twenty five Crystals for you all to make it there, but I have a little solution." He then said, grinning on the last part.

"And what could that be?" Tawna asked.

"I can cut the cost of the C-Crystals by five, and use the power of some of the Gems that all of you collected too, which I still thank you all for getting by the way. And then I'll use them to also give the Elevator the e-energy, to levitate to where C-C-Cortex is. Even though 1-2 of you can only ride the Platform to the top now that there's too many of you to use it. So, who's gonna volunteer?" He asked.

There was some debating among themselves after that. If they were going to go up and face off against Cortex, then one or two of them had to take him on. It could be Isabella, or Ami, or Megumi, and Liz, but they didn't feel willing to put each other in danger. And it could've been Nina, but she wasn't angry enough, or even brave enough, to fight her own uncle.

It didn't take too long though, when Crash ended up stepping forward. And raised his hand upwards. "I dew ibt! I'll co!" He gibbered out, much to their surprise.

Which was brief for one of them, as she ended up stepping forward. "I'll go too! I just need to make sure that he'll make it, after all." Tawna said.

The gang just stared on in surprise, at seeing Tawna, and Crash volunteering to take out Cortex. But they didn't stop them, since there was no other option than this, as they decided to support their choice to fight. Including Isabella, despite being at Tawna's throat, minutes ago.

"Good luck." "Be careful against Cortex" "I hope that both of you will make it." "See you later." Was among what the gang said, giving good luck to both Tawna and Crash.

"So be it then. B-B-Both of you, shall stand on the platform, while I s-send you to him. But be c-careful, for he may have tricks up his sleeves when he fights." He said, letting both Crash, and Tawna onto the platform in the middle of the room, before he then got on his remote to control the elevator disc into going up after some typing.

"Wish us luck girls!" Tawna said as the elevator went up to the opening of the ceiling, as the gang waved to them, even after they were now through the opening to the top.

Which was when Coco exited out of one of the portals in the room, surprising the gang, before they gave her thanks for stopping them from giving the Crystals to Cortex. (While Nina proceeded to glomp her, feeling glad that she's alright, and that she stopped them from making a mistake.)

Which, was much to her initial confusion. "Huh? Wha- OH! Right! No problem. It pays to have a hacker for a friend after all." She said grinning at them, and Nina, before she then noticed Brio was there too. "Brio? Why are you here?"

"Cortex sent me here, via teleportation. He expects your gang to beat me into an orange juice pulp out of revenge. Your timely news stopped that from happening though." He responded, as he focused on her, in both confusion, then admiration. "I don't know how you got here, and joined your brother, and Tawna on their journey. But I suppose it doesn't matter now. What matters, is that I feel impressed that you've gotten quite smart. For a young Bandicoot that is." He said.

Coco was touched at what he said, as she couldn't help but figuratively tip her own hat to him. Then she wondered where Tawna, and Crash was. "I sent them up to have them fight Cortex without the required amount of Crystals. Now it's up to them." He responded.

Coco wishes that she was with them, fighting Cortex too. But that's his, and Tawna's fight, and she just knows that they can beat him on their own. She believes in them after all.

There was something that she wished she would tell them though, but something kept on stopping her from spitting it out.

"But until the outcome is over with, how about we grab the last Gems from this place? It is the last one, is it not?" He asked, before getting satisfied with their answer.

Crash and Tawna saw white leaving their vision, as they saw that they were in one of the main rooms of the Space Station, that they're sure that Cortex himself was in.

Sure enough, he was in the room with them as he had a jet pack on. "Ooh, my goodness, you're quite the quick pair of Bandicoots, having beaten Brio into a pulp, and gained the last Crystals in quick time. I have to admit, I'm so impressed. Now, about those…" He said, only to then notice a few things.

One: They were just one Crystal short.

Two: They were unwilling to give the ones they have, to him.

and Three: They were glaring at him, almost as if they have indeed, learned everything about his plan from Coco. And they were prepared to fight him instead of giving him the Crystals.

"It's over Cortex. We know what you're planning now. And we refuse to follow along, any longer." Tawna said, with Crash nodding in agreement as they both prepared for battle.

"*Sigh* I suppose that he was too late in stopping the Brat from telling you all the news. And may I presume that none of you has beaten Brio?" He asked annoyed.

They both nodded at him in response.

"Well, curses." He said blankly, not feeling surprised at that point, considering what just happened, and how N. Gin has failed in stopping Coco from telling them. "No matter, I shall take those Crystals by force if I have to. And at least, I could use their power to zap almost all of Earth with, and then conquer the unaffected parts that the ray couldn't reach, into my Empire." He then said.

"You aren't getting them that easy." Tawna said, continuing to glare at Cortex.

"That, we can both agree on. At least, unless I do this." He then said, pulling a lever to his right while grinning.

Next thing both Bandicoots knew, was that an alarm sounded, before a large airlock was opening up. Causing suction to happen as both Crash, and Tawna was yelping when felt the wind threatening to pull them out of the airlock and into space. Which they knew, could cause them to suffocate in the lack of oxygen, and atmosphere in the vacuum of space, without any helmets. So they ran, and was able to grab onto the wall of the room before they could get sucked out.

All while Cortex was floating with his jetpack, out of the room, and into space, where there was large rings that made a path to his space station. "It's no use, Bandicoots, you both shall be sucked into space, and I shall be safe out here as long as I remain in the path marked by these rings, that would feed me my desired oxygen, while I watch with glee, at your suffocating forms when you both get sucked out into space, or remain inside of that room when it loses all of its air." He said, knowing that they could get sucked out of the room, and into the depths of space out of the path of rings, while he remains in the safe zone that still has oxygen for him. (And unfortunately for him, so would the Bandicoots if they floated into the path, or were able to gain jetpacks for themselves to use.)

And they both feared that it'd be when Cortex would win, and probably grab their Crystals from their carcasses if they do get sucked out into space. So they needed to find their own jetpacks to wear, as well as fitting space helmets if they are to stand a chance against Cortex.

Which, they were unfortunately unable to find in the room they were in. And they were losing strength in their grip on the floor, as they looked around in the room to find their desired items. Not only that, but as the suction started to fade, so did the air in their lungs as the room started to lose its oxygen inside. And pretty soon, they started to find it harder to breathe as they were starting to suffocate, much to both of their horror as they started to choke from the lack of air.

"*GLCK* Can't… breathe. Gotta… find… *CLCK* jetpacks!" Tawna said, knowing that they have to find the space helmets, and jetpacks, and fast.

But there was none in the room as they were now floating inside, as the gravity in the room also faded. They now floated as they were trying to move around, trying to get their jetpacks to join Cortex on the path, before they lose their air. But at this rate, it seems that they were going to die here as they saw each other's faces turning blue, then purple, as well as leaking out tears of sadness, and out of a lack of air.

At least, until Crash noticed that there was a pair of jet packs, and helmets, that appeared out of nowhere in the room. Likely teleported to them, courtesy of Brio, or Coco. Either way, he was able to grab both of them to tie to his, and Tawna's backs, before activating them, and barely making it to the path that Cortex was on as they put on their helmets.

Which was when they were able to breathe, as they gasped the air back into their lungs as they made it to the beginning of the path where Cortex was. Much to his chagrin as he expected them to suffocate, which would've been a good time to take the Crystals from their carcasses. Now they were catching their breath before their fight would begin against him.

"Curses! I thought for sure that it'd be the end there!" He angrily said.

"*Cough* But it ain't. Now put up your dukes!" Tawna said after catching her breath.

"Yeah, but ub ya duke!" Crash gibbered out, just as ready to take him on.

Only for him to fly away through the path in response. leading to them chasing him. "Get back here Cortex! You can't fly away forever!" Tawna demanded.

Only for him to ignore that demand as he kept on flying away, like he was being a coward, or was luring them to where he would be at an advantage. Either way, Crash, and Tawna, wasn't willing to let him go that easily as they continued to chase after Cortex through the path of rings.

And they were gaining on him, despite him having asteroid rocks loitering the path to slow them down. Pretty soon, they used their spin move on him, getting a hit in against him.

Which knocked him away, as he continued to fly away from them, but they were continuing the chase on him, even though they did hit some rocks on the way to him. But they were merely speed bumps, as they slowed them down, but didn't hurt them any.

Instead, they just kept on flying after Cortex, trying to clobber him, and stop him from taking their Crystals, and activating his cannon on his Space Station.

Which he was failing steadily at, as he was not fast in moving through the path himself. Which could be because he's having as much trouble in avoiding the asteroid rocks, as they were. And despite their troubles with them, they were taking advantage of that fact, as they were catching back up with him.

Which had him shocked and scared when they were able to spin into him again. At this rate, he was going to be sent off into space. So he took out his laser gun, and shot back at them, adding another hazard to their chase.

And that an extra hazard that was dangerous, as Tawna learned the hard way, when she got hit in the shoulder by the laser.

"ARGH!" She yelped out, feeling the burning pain of the laser beam hitting her shoulder. Much to Crash's horror, and chagrin as he hoped that his girlfriend was okay. "I'll be fine Crash! J-just keep going!" She said.

Crash obeyed, as he kept on flying with her as they kept on going, making sure to dodge his lasers, and the rocks that tried to block their path to Cortex. Only this time, they were only slightly gaining ground on Cortex as he was faster with his jet pack, and kept on shooting his laser at them, even through the asteroid rocks, much to their surprise at how strong his laser's piercing power was.

He even grazed Crash's hips, just over his pants, which angered Tawna, and left her more determined to fight Cortex.

Just as they were getting quite close to him though, they were in what was a giant box shaped cage arena in space, which connected to the path to Cortex's space station. And it was also full of asteroids, but they were fewer in number on the inside. And Cortex looked like he was relieved as he started to grin again.

"N. Gin! Is my mech ready now?!" He yelled into his intercom.

Then suddenly, a large mech robot appeared via teleportation, courtesy of N. Gin. It looked like N. Gin's mech, but it had extra stuff added in. Like extra laser cannons on its shoulders, above the missile launchers, turrets around the large chest laser cannon to protect it with, and legs, that it was going to use to jump around on the bars of the arena. And, it seems to have shoulder cannons that was closer to the neck.

And Cortex was immediately entering it to fight Crash, and Tawna in. "I'll take it as a yes. Prepare yourselves Bandicoots! Cause I'm about to show why I'm the superior evil scientist, compared to that traitorous Nitrous Brio!" He said, beginning the battle against Crash and Tawna.

*Insert Live and Learn by Crush 40*

Cortex fired out some lasers against them, forcing Crash, and Tawna to back away from the mech, while he started to guard himself with a bunch of floating mines that he sent out against them. Which they were able to dodge.

It seemed that they could be fighting a difficult battle against him this time. But no matter how intimidating the mech was, Crash, and Tawna, would continue their fight against Cortex as they were trying to search for a weakness that they could use against him.

Then suddenly, they heard a voice in their helmets. "Can you hear me, Crash?! Tawna?! That mech has a weakness near where it fires all of its weapons. Aim the weapons that I'm teleporting to you both, at where the cores will be exposed once he fires. Don't let him escape into his Space Station if he somehow takes those Crystals from you. You're our last hope." N. Brio said.

Then the Bandicoots notice a pair of more little mechs appearing out of thin air. They were yellow colored, and they were basically connected to the arms, and the feet by some metal hydraulic piston bars, and a back support chassis. They basically looked like some certain power loader suits from Coco's, and Tawna's favorite alien movie, (Regardless of all the violent nightmare inducing moments in it.) except that both of them had only one vise hand, while the other had a cannon on the other, likely to shoot out ammo against Cortex's mech.

The Bandicoots were surprised at seeing them, but they wasted no time in flying to them, and entering them after removing their jetpacks, and their helmets when they were sure that the arena they were in was also full of oxygen, before Cortex could stop them. "Roger Brio." Tawna said.

Now the battle was starting to get even as Crash, and Tawna, both dodged the mines and the lasers by using the rocket feet of the mechs, while looking for the weaknesses in the mech.

"Curse your support Brio! When I'm done with them, and when the world is mine, I'm going to have my slaves clobber you, and that young Blonde Bandicoot, before making you both my slaves!" He angrily said.

Crash wasn't happy about what he said when he brought Coco into this, as was Tawna, as they both continued to dodge his shots, and shot back at him when they saw his weak spots where his mine shooters were, damaging his mech. Much to his dismay.

He continued to fire at them with his lasers, and the mines though, as he was also moving around in the box arena to avoid them. But the size of his mech, coupled with the asteroids were making it hard for him to successfully dodge and weave around them through the arena, while they were able to also dodge and weave through his attacks, and the asteroids themselves.

Not to say that the asteroids were useless for either of them, as Cortex ended up throwing them at their direction as well. But the Bandicoots either end up dodging them, or was able to take cover behind the other asteroid rocks to block the other rocks, or the mines and missiles that Cortex fired at them.

All while they also dodged any of the lasers, even from behind the asteroids, due to how strong they were in piercing through them. But so far, none of them were hit by the lasers as they continued to fire at the lasers themselves, breaking them off of the Mech.

But Cortex continued to shoot out his mines at the Bandicoots. Which continued to fail to hit them. But they were able to singe both Tawna, and Crash though.

But they were not enough to harm them both, as they shot at another weak part of the mech of Cortex's near the shoulder that shoots out missiles on the right.

And after that, they eventually were able to hit another weak part of Cortex's mech on the arm so that he won't shoot out a laser from the left hand of his mech. But he can still use the right one.

Which he used on the asteroids to have them blow up, which caused broke them into smaller rocks that became like shrapnel, that did cause some dents on Crash, and Tawna's mechs. Just not enough to break them outright.

"Don't give up Crashie! We can still take that thing down with him!" Tawna said, blasting another one of Cortex's missile launchers on his shoulders, breaking it, and leaving him with only his left shoulder's missile launcher.

Which he proceeded to fire plenty of at them, alongside the mines, but the asteroids kept on blocking his shots. Which they both took advantage of while firing at the mine launcher again to damage his mech again.

They also damaged the missile launcher on his left shoulder, leaving him with only the lasers and the mine launcher to use against them. Much to Cortex's dismay, as the fight went on.

Suddenly… "AAAUGH!" Tawna shouted out in pain.

The reason being, was that her knee got hit by a lucky shot from Cortex's laser from his mech. Which went through her right leg, and damaged one of the hydraulic bars of the mech's leg, showing that their mechs had no armor to protect them from the shots. Which Tawna learned the hard way.

And so did Crash, since quickly after that, he took another shot to his hips, and another to his left shoulder. While Tawna then took one to her own hips too. Which had them both grunting from the pain that they were suffering from the burns of those lasers.

Apparently, Cortex was learning how to aim his lasers well, as well as their dodging patterns.

"Gotcha! Now it shouldn't take too much effort to kill you both for those Crystals!" He said, continuing to shoot out his lasers to try to kill them both with.

Unfortunately for Cortex, they were also learning from his shots, as they changed up their patterns of dodging, and was being more careful of his laser shots, as well as his mines.

And that is regardless of the pain in Tawna's leg that she was trying not to either cry, or pass out from, as she kept on flying through the arena with the reduced mobility of one of the rocket boots from her mech, due to the mech's damaged leg.

"Crash! Tawna! Can you both hear me?! All of us is rooting for you! Keep going, and give him trouble!" Coco's voice sounded in their intercom. Which gave them more reason to keep on fighting against Cortex as they continued to dodge his mech's shots.

Which had him frustrated as hell, as he decided to use a different weapon against them that his mech had. "Let's see if you Bandicoots can dodge this!" He said, before shooting out mines.

"Quick Crashie! Dodge!" Tawna said as they both did just that when the mines were launched at them.

Only those mines were different. As they were guided mines that was moving after them both, which Tawna noticed when she looked behind them. "They're coming back at us Crash!" She yelled out, in fear, as Crash also gasped before they both had to move around the arena when the mines homed in on them both. It seemed like they were now playing cat and mouse with those mines.

Except, Tawna had an idea. As she made sure to tell Crash through his mech's intercom, of what it was. Before having him follow along with her as they both kept on flying through the box arena away from the mines until she's sure that Cortex is focused on them, and their demise, that he wouldn't notice the flaw with the guided mines.

Which he was, as she then ended up flying herself, and Crash, straight towards him while dodging the remaining asteroids, and the fragments of the asteroids that the mines blew up on while leading the rest of the mines toward his mech. Which was when they were close enough to his mech to where he would be able to attack them by punching them with his mech.

An opportunity, he didn't want to miss, as he attempted to punch them both. Which they barely dodged as the larger mech's fist grazed Tawna's mech, on its foot part, which was the undamaged part, leaving her with only the damaged leg to fly with, as Crash had her mech's hand to fly her with as Cortex now had his mech's chest cannon ready to fire on them.

But regardless, her plan was starting to pay off, as the mines were now on the verge of hitting his mech. Which he ended up noticing. "N. Gin you nincompoop! What good is guided mines if they come right back?!" He angrily yelled as he tried to detonate the mines before they could hit his mech.

He only partly succeeded, as they blew up when they were quite close to the mech of his, but it was too little too late, as the explosions ended up hitting his mech. And soon, they were damaging the mech, as they consumed his mech in their fiery explosions. Which caused a lot of damage for his mech as it was now sparking, and smoking. Showing both Bandicoots how badly damaged his mech was.

"Ready Crashie?" She asked with a smile on her face.

"Weady dawlin!" He gibbered back.

Before they both then aimed their mech's cannons at the damaged parts of Cortex's mech. Which they hoped, would be enough to beat it.

Luckily for them, their hopes were answered, as after some electrocution, and after some smaller explosions, Cortex's mech has had it, and ended up exploding into several pieces, some of which, was unfortunately able to bean Crash in the head as he got knocked out. While Cortex ended up flying through the space as his face was covered in soot of the explosions.

"NOOOOOOOO! Neither of you shall see the last of me, accursed Bandicoots!" He yelled out as he continued to fly off into the distance of space.

Tawna didn't really concentrate on that though, as she was making sure that Crash is okay, and that neither of them are going to float off into space, and probably towards Earth, where they'll get vaporized by the speed of their descent into Earth's atmosphere. Which was going to happen to them, but Tawna was able to get herself, and Crash out of the mechs, before pushing them away with her feet too make sure that they wouldn't float towards Earth. All while keeping them in the arena that was oxygenated too, when they removed their helmets to enter the mechs.

"Crash! Crash! Are you alright?!" Tawna asked, shaking him in hopes to awaken him.

Which lasted for minutes, as Crash wasn't responding to her shaking attempts on him. Much to her concern as she hoped that the blow to the head didn't kill him.

"Crash! Wake up! Are you okay?!" She asked again, desperate in her hopes that he's alright, regardless of the bonk on his head.

Initially, he remained unconscious. Until he ended up groaning after minutes ended up passing, of her getting scared that he died in space. Which showed her that he could still be alive.

Sure enough, he focused his eyes on Tawna after opening them, then smiled at her in relief at how she was alive.

Which she returned with her own as she hugged him. "You're alive! I knew you were tougher than that! I'm so happy to have you!" She said happily before she deeply kissed Crash. Which he was initially surprised at, before returning his own kiss to her.

Then he was reminded of their injuries. Which in his case, he didn't care about. He got hurt plenty of times before, even before rescuing his girlfriend, and his sister. But it's Tawna that he was worried about. And he was going to ask if she was fine, when she covered his mouth.

"Don't worry about me Crashie, it's just a wound that'll heal overtime. I'm just relieved, and happy that we've survived this battle together." She said, continuing to smile at him, as they cuddled on one of the asteroids, waiting for Brio, or Coco to teleport them back to the Warp Room, or to Earth.

Either way, one thing's for sure. Regardless of their struggles throughout this adventure, they were alive by the end of it. And both Bandicoots were ready to face off against what the future could throw at them, together.

For now though, they proceeded to look at the Earth for a bit, before they then felt themselves getting teleported back to the gang.

Chapter Text

Meanwhile...

"But until the outcome is over with, how about we grab the last Gems from this place? It is the last one is it not?" Brio asked after sending Tawna, and Crash off to fight Neo Cortex.

The gang nodded after they were asked that. Much to Brio's delight.

"There may also be the last power Crystal, but at this point, Cortex should be unable to use it for his gains. So go ahead and collect it if you like." Brio said, confident that Cortex would be beaten by Crash, and Tawna.

The gang nodded in agreement to Brio. Even though they had something to say to him. "We're sorry that we didn't listen when you told us not to gather the Crystals for him." Ami said.

"Gomen. (Sorry.)" Megumi said.

"I humbly apologize." Liz said, alongside Isabella.

"No need. At least Cortex is unable to be given those Crystals, thanks to Coco. Now he's going to have to fight for those things, which is one, that I doubt he's going to win." Brio responded.

"Now it's time to make up for it, by grabbing the last Gem from that portal." Brio responded. "And I apologize for the attempt on your lives. Like I said, I did what I had to do."

The gang went around to forgive him, before some of them jumped into the portal to Spaced Out. Them being Coco, Nina, Yaya, Ami, and Isabella. While Liz, Megumi, Polar, and Pasadena stayed in the room to babysit Polar, and to keep Brio safe. Just in case.

Once they were in the level, they saw that it looked similar to the Piston It Away level, in that it looked like a sci fi level with boilers, with pistons, and robots.

But there was a difference that was major.

Which is when they saw a glowing blue Gem platform that Coco caught alongside Nina. "Hey look! I wonder why it took this long to have the Blue Gem platform appear?" Coco asked.

"Beats me. But it seems that it's where we're getting the last Gem for this journey that isn't a box Gem. Which is nice for Brio." Ami said. "It seems like it's going to be a hard one though. So who's gonna take that challenge on?"

"I'll do it. Just so that I'll gain that Gem for us, and Brio." Coco said.

"I'm going too! Just to make sure that I can protect you from whatever that last challenge throws at us!" Nina said, willing to join her as she hugged Coco close to her.

Yaya suddenly followed suit. "I'll go too! I'm not gonna leave my best friends to fend for themselves!" She then said, keeping close to both Nina, and Coco.

Neither Ami, or Isabella argued against it. And neither did Coco, as she was touched that both Yaya, and Nina was joining her in the route, regardless of her wanting to go it alone. But she knew that they might not be so willing to let her go. So she just gave, and let them follow her to the Gem platform.

Which was where they floated away from the normal route that both Ami, and Isabella was taking for the box Gem, and Crystal.

Once they were at the end of the ride on the blue Gem platform, they were in a path where there was both the electric robots that was somehow floating in the air, and the pistons. Which looked pretty dangerous when paired up with each other, since not only would the pistons try to crush them, but they would also block them from getting to the other side of the gaps when they try to use the bots as bouncing pads to bounce them to the other side.

Which would be a death sentence since they have nothing to jump on, to save them from falling to the bottomless pit below them.

Which was an intimidating look for the path that they're taking, but they were not stopping there, as they had to time their jumps with not only with the electric bot's shocking tentacles, but also the piston that they were waiting until it rises upwards to jump to the other side without it blocking them.

Even though, it was unnecessary for half of that, at least for Nina, as she continued to swing herself, and Coco to the other side, before doing the same thing for Yaya, all while making sure to avoid the pistons themselves. As well as the electric bots. Which happened only a few times since it wasn't a long path they took, until they found a green Gem platform.

"Wow! Another Gem Platform!" Yaya said, interested in seeing where the next one would take them.

"So this is what the colored Gems that my brother, and Tawna collected, becomes once we gain them. I hope I can find some more of them if I am able to." Coco said, knowing their capabilities.

"I'm sure there are more Gems where these came from. And I'm sure you can grab more of them on your next journey! That is, if you're gonna go on one later on!" Yaya said, feeling that Coco could be an adventurous Bandicoot.

Which, she was, but she needed a home to return to when her journey is done though. And the one on the Wumpa Islands was a good home that she could ask for. Especially since she lived with her brother, and Tawna.

Both of whom, she hoped, and believed, that they could beat Cortex, and come back to them, feeling okay at best.

For now though, they just took the green Gem platform. Which merely levitated them to the other side of the gap to another route. Where they saw the shrink ray hazards, as well as the robot with the glowing hot pipes around the top. Which it was using as protection, just in case they would try to spin the robot away.

But they knew better, as Coco merely slide kicked the robot, while she, and both Yaya, and Nina, avoided the shrink traps due to how slow the bolt shot out to the floor. At least, slower than their slide kicking.

They then proceeded onwards, jumping and avoiding the shrink ray bolts on the other buttons, before coming across a single piston on the section they were on, which they avoided, and jumped to the next section to destroy the electric bot that tried to shock them, before going onwards through the short path to find a yellow Gem platform.

It seemed to them, that the colored Gem platforms was carrying them throughout the route that they're taking, like this is what they would be used for if they found all of them, and gathered them in their inventory. It was like they were going to uncover a secret item that they would gain in gaining them all. But could it be some new Gem that Brio could use?

Or could it be just another regular Gem… that Brio could use? Either way, its the last Gem that they would grab, that isn't a box Gem that Ami, and Isabella was going to grab in the normal route.

When they took the yellow Gem platform, it just levitated them upwards to where another piston was, as well as some unblocked space on the platform. And beyond that was a floating platform that levitated left and right.

They didn't question how the platform was levitating left and right, they just took the platform after making sure that the piston wasn't going to crush them.

"I guess that piston's attempt fell 'flat'." Coco said, unable to resist making a pun.

Which had both Nina, and Yaya laughing when they got the joke. Which was unlike both Aku Aku's, and Crash's reaction to her pun about getting flattened, back in the Snow Biz level. Much to her delight as she joined in on the giggling that both of them were doing.

Once they were done with the giggles, they continued onwards with nothing getting in their way.

Which was where after clearing the last Piston, they saw a red Gem platform, which they took, to levitate them to another path, where they saw some lab assistant minions with door shields, like back in Piston It Away. Only there was also some pressure buttons for the shrink rays as well. Which they avoided as Yaya kicked one of the lab assistants into the gap, and into his doom.

Same could be said for the other lab assistant, as Coco spun him to his doom, before they all were grinning at each other when they saw a purple Gem platform, seeing that they seem to be near the end of the route that they were on.

Sure enough, once they took the purple Gem platform, they were levitated to a short path, leading to an exit door, which looked like they were at an alternate exit to the level that they were at. Which they entered, and saw that it was indeed an alternate exit chamber that they were in, and there was a grey Gem that was inside of the chamber.

They all doubted that it could be a box Gem, as there could be one in the normal exit of the level that both Ami, and Isabella could be headed towards once the boxes were destroyed.

"Well, this is it girls. We're near the end of our journey. And soon, we could be on the Islands that your brother, his girlfriend, and you, my bandicutie, are on, and they could be our new home." Nina said smiling.

"Right on!" Yaya said, also smiling alongside Nina, and Coco.

Even though hers looked a little bit uncomfortable.

"How about we leave this place with the next to last Gem?" Yaya said, ready to leave the level.

Coco though, was going to stay. "Why don't you both go on ahead. I've gotta make sure that Isabella, and Ami are going to leave this place in one piece." She said.

"Why though? Aren't you sure that both of them can take care of themselves?" Yaya asked, knowing that Isabella was a bit of a brawler if push comes to shove, as her near fight with Tawna, and what she called herself, was any indication, while Ami was a strong Bandicoot herself.

"I am sure. But it pays to be safe. Trust me. I'll meet you on the islands." Coco said.

Even though both Yaya, and Nina was wondering why she wanted to stay, they didn't stop her. "Okay. Just be careful. And likewise." Yaya said. As she got the Gem, and got teleported out of the level with Nina in tow. (After she kissed Coco that is, making her blush.)

Little did they know though, Coco was sighing in relief as she walked back out of the chamber, before reopening her laptop. "Thank goodness they still bought it. Now to make sure that Tawna, and big brother will be alright." She said to herself, as she hacked into a camera to see how their fight against Cortex was going.

Which was when she saw them both fighting Cortex, while piloting their own mechs, while Cortex was in his own, which was bigger than theirs. Much to her surprise, at how much of a fight that Cortex was giving to them.

She initially wondered how the pair got mech's, but she felt that Brio might've given them those mechs.

Then she noticed that one of them was flying a bit funny, the one being Tawna's mech, as the then noticed how pretty damaged the right leg's hydraulic was. Which left her nervous at what she saw. But she saw that neither of them were in a losing battle.

"Crash! Tawna! Can you both hear me?! All of us is rooting for you! Keep going, and give him trouble!" She said, into her laptop's mic, feeling that it wouldn't hurt to express her support for them if it'll help them win.

Sure enough, after some flying around, and after some dodging of the homing mines that Cortex shot at them, leading to them using the mines against him, before destroying the mech with well placed shots, Coco smiled when she saw both Bandicoots surviving the battle intact.

Which was much to her relief, as she felt that her work was done. Before she suddenly saw both Ami, and Isabella.

Both of whom were also at the end of the level, near the exit chamber's door at the end of the normal route, with a Crystal in Isabella's hand, when they saw Coco. "Hey Coco! How ya doin?! Where's Yaya, and Nina?" Ami asked loudly across the gap.

"They're back in the Warp Room! I was going to make sure that both of you were gonna be alright, which is why I'm still here!" Coco yelled back.

"Well thanks for your concern!" Ami responded. "We're fine now though! Just went through a lot in here, but we're good!" She said, having been through what she could describe as the Piston It Away level only a little more harder, what with more of the electic bots, lab assistants, hot pipe bots, and even the pistons that hindered them. "Ya comin back with us?!"

"I need to do something first! But I'll meet you back on the islands once I'm done!" Coco said back.

As curious as both of them were at what Coco needed to do first, they didn't ask as they accepted her answer as they entered the exit chamber for the final Gem, and to the exit.

Neither of them knew though, that Coco was sighing in relief, as she was smiling. "Okay. I think my work here's done." She said, getting back on her laptop to type some more.

Then once she was done typing, a globe suddenly appeared next to her, before she then entered the globe, and mysteriously vanished.

Back in the Warp Room, the gang, minus Tawna, and Crash, was looking around at the now finished Portals that had all of the slots filled with the Crystals, and the Gems in their place. Much to Brio's joy at the sight.

"How incredible! A-And, delightful! Now, C-Cortex, has been beaten, a-and the G-Gems are fully gathered, I am so proud of you all, regardless of what C-C-Cortex has nearly made you all do." Brio said.

"What now then? Ami asked.

"N-now, I can get my revenge on C-C-Cortex! A-and to let you know, the Crystals aren't the only one that can harness powerful energy of the planet. G-Gems have that ability too. And with t-them, I can finally shoot my laser at the Cortex Vortex, and his Space Station!" Brio said happily.

"Right n-now though, it's time to get t-the ones that m-made this j-journey's end possible!" Brio then said, typing into his remote, knowing of Crash, and Tawna's victory against Cortex.

Soon, Crash, and Tawna, was back in the Warp Room, safe and sound, if a bit hurt. Particularly with Tawna's leg, which happened to have a burning hole on it, that had the diameter of a cork from a wine bottle. But it looked like it could heal with some medical help.

"Hey guys. We did it! Cortex is no more." Tawna said, smiling at them.

Which they returned with their smiles, regardless of their concern for Tawna, especially when they look at her wounds, particularly her leg wound, that happened to have left her currently unable to walk, as Ami, Crash, and Isabella helped her walk.

"And I give you thanks for that. And for the Gems. Now my preparations for my laser is underway, and within minutes, Cortex and his Space Station will be no more. But for now, let me reward you all with something that I doubt Cortex would give you Bandicoots." Brio said.

"You're giving us a way back to our island home? And with our new friends?" Tawna asked.

"Yes. You see, after what you've all done for me, I'm going to keep my word to all of you. But for them though," He said, referring to the Bandicoot girls, Opossum, and Nina. "I wonder if they want to see what your home looks like."

"Of course we do! After all, it's our new home!" Ami said, with her friends in agreement, hoping that Brio isn't going to force them to come back to his side.

Which at this point, he feels that they would be free, and on the Wumpa islands. And there'd be nothing he can do about it at this point.

After all, he knew that regardless of his intentions, they would be just as pissed at him, as they were towards Cortex, and he won't be able to talk them down, or back to his side.

"So be it then." He then said annoyed. "Once you all return to the basement room where you all collected the secret Gems, you shall see that one of the inactive portals, is now open. That's the portal that shall send you all back to the very island where your home is." He then said, typing into his remote calculator. "Now go! And I'll be sure to call you guys back to me, once my laser is complete."

The gang obliged, and took the elevator disc platform down to the basement one by one, (While taking the jet board that Crash left in the third Room, since there was no more river levels.) until they got to the bottom, where indeed, the inactive gate in the basement was activated. And they were now jumping into the portal, where they're sure it would send them back home.

Once the white light faded from their vision, they looked around at their surroundings, with Tawna, and Crash smiling, seeing that they were indeed back on the Wumpa islands, and not too far from their home. "Home sweet home." Tawna said to Crash. Who smiled at the house in their sight.

"That's what your home looks like?" Isabella asked.

"Of course it is. It's not much, but it's our home nonetheless." Tawna said, now being assisted with her walking by Crash as the Bandicoot girls looked at the house curiously, alongside Nina, Pasadena, and Polar.

"I expected that there'd be nothing special about your house, but I didn't expect that this would look this average." Liz said.

"No kidding. No offence." Ami said.

"None taken. We were actually doing some improving for our house during our time here, to where we were adding a bathroom, attic, a basement for Coco to tinker in, and even a garage, just in case we get some vehicles." Tawna said, feeling interested in cruising through the jungles of the island on a cart, or even a motorcycle. (Despite the fact that Crash sometimes rode on some hogs to travel on the island for fun, or for something else. It's too bad he hasn't tamed any of them. Not that she plans on riding on one though.)

"And it seems that we're getting a house of our own? As long as it's nice, then I don't mind waiting." Liz said.

"Neither do I. Especially if my Bandicutie is gonna visit me there often to go swimming with me." She said, skipping merrily.

While the gang ended up coming close to the house, where Nina ended up entering the house first, expecting Coco to be inside, much to her excitement as she merrily skipped. "Oh, Bandicutie! Nina's here!" She loudly, and excitedly announced once inside.

*BANG!*

A loud noise, sounding like a cannon, was made inside the house, along with the noise of falling down after some silly sounding moans was made too. Which startled the hell out of the gang. Before they all entered the house in single file.

Where they saw the interior of the house, which looked exactly like it was when Crash, Tawna, and Coco last left it. And it looked pretty clean, other than the fact that Nina happened to be laying haphazardly near the wall with swirls in her eyes, a goofy stunned smile on her face, and tweeting birds flying around a smoking bump on her head.

And there was Coco in the house, who was catching her breath, likely from being startled by Nina's entrance as one of her shoes was also steaming a bit. Until she looked at Crash, and Tawna. "Crash? Tawna?" She asked surprised.

Tawna, and Crash waved back at her in greeting, before they both got glomped by Coco as they all fell down on the floor. "I'm so glad that you're both okay! I saw the whole battle on their camera, and I thought that you both would be goners at some points! Thank goodness that you both have won the battle!" Coco said happily.

"Thank goodness indeed. After what you've told us about what he was planning, I knew that he needed to be stopped. Otherwise we would've made a mistake." Tawna said.

"That's… an understatement. But I'm so glad that both of you were able to undo that mistake before it could get any worse. And now you're both back." Coco said, happy to see them again, regardless of their wounds.

As was both Tawna, and Crash, as they hugged her back, feeling glad to be back to her side, and back home with her. And while they ended up having new friends in the Bandicoot girls, as well as Yaya, Pasadena, and Nina, as well. "It's nice to be here again." Tawna said.

"Dit noice dindee." Crash gibbered.

"Especially with us here too. I have to say, this place does look good enough to stay in." Liz said, looking around at the interior of the house alongside the rest of the girls.

That was when Coco noticed the girls that was also in the house. Which had her smiling at them awkwardly. "Thanks?" She said. "Who are they?" She suddenly asked Tawna.

The question caught them off guard as they were surprised at the question. "Coco, you know them. We were on a journey with them, together." Tawna said, sitting on the bed while telling Crash to get the first aid kit.

Coco just felt more confused in response. "We were journeying together?"

"Yeah. And you were there to help save us from Brio's helmets, alongside your brother, and Tawna, when he sent us after you folks. Don't you remember?" Ami said, also feeling confused.

"Also, you helped in freeing me from Pinstripe's cage when I got captured." Yaya then said.

"I did? But I was here on this island this whole time. I was hacking into Cortex's computer mainframe, to see what he was planning, that had you both involved, while keeping tabs on you both through his hologram cameras. And then I saw his plan, then told you the news, then saw my brother, and Tawna fighting Cortex. Why was I supposed to remember being there? Let alone know who you all are?" She asked.

The gang was both confused, and surprised at her response. Crash, and Tawna, was sure that she joined them when it was just them, before Isabella's rescue. And the girls were sure that she was there to help save them all from Brio's helmets. So why did she not remember them?

Which was where they got surprised, when they realized that she probably wasn't with them this entire time, and instead, she was here on the island. Which begged the question.

Who was the Coco that they were with? And was she a clone? Or an Imposter?

"So what you're saying, is that you were here this whole time, hacking into Cortex's database? And the messages, they were from you?" Tawna asked, getting her leg nursed by Crash.

"Yes. They were from me. And I was hoping that you'd both make it back, safe and sound. Thank goodness my hope was answered." Coco said, feeling glad that they were back, regardless of Crash, and Tawna's wounds, particularly her wound on her knee that he was bandaging up along with her other wounds.

"It wasn't easy to get in his database for the plan though, considering my laptop's battery power." She said annoyed, mainly towards her laptop's defective battery, and not towards Crash, and Tawna. "And his system's security was strong, but I had some help from someone who's probably from China, considering the language that I had to translate with the translation software. But it took me like an hour, and the translation wasn't perfect." She then said, before showing them the message on her laptop, that was plugged into her wall for power. (With the cords looking like they were built just a few minutes ago.)

Which was written entirely in Chinese. While only the P.S sections at the end, were the only sentences in English.

All of the gang couldn't make out what it was saying, especially since Megumi knows English, and Japanese. But Chinese has shockingly little similarities in terms of words, as well as dialect. Which left all of the gang wondering what it said.

Or to be precise, all but one of the gang. The one, being Yaya. Who prepared herself for reading the message out loud to them.

"It says, 'Dear Coco.

If you're able to read this, then you should know that your big brother, and your sister figure, is okay, and they'll be intact by the time their journey ends. And I'm making sure of that, by the end of their journey too. Also, don't worry, this isn't a message from a villain, just someone who just wants to help someone like your brother, and big sister figure, from the future, just to see what their journey would be like with me by their side, simply cause this journey could've been quite hard without me helping out. Also, I would like to let you know, that there are some surprises coming your way once they're done.

'The main one being that there's going to be four girls whom are just like Tawna, who are going to be coming to your Island, as well as a Polar bear cub that your brother has adopted, and a Panda girl.' "That's me!" She said, before continuing. 'There's also someone else that's gonna be on your island, and I'm certain, that she's gonna be another friend, regardless of her relation to the villainous scientist that kept you prisoner a year ago. And I beg of you, don't spurn her away from your home because of it, and if she gets clingy, because she had it rough in her life before meeting your brother, and his friends. I just know that she would be a great friend for you, and your big brother and sister figure, as well as your new friends.

Especially, since she's a kind girl, regardless of having been sent to an evil academy by her uncle, until getting busted out by Brio, then siding with your big brother's crew.

Finally, there's going to be a gift for you, courtesy of another scientist, whom fought against Cortex. Think of it as his atoning gift for what he could've done to your brother. And let's just say, that you're going to like this gift. Regardless of the fact that he's still a villain.

I just hope that you can bear having some new friends staying at your house for a little while, until a new home is made.

Sincerely anonymous.'

"P.S, there's another message that's gonna be sent to you, that is connected to this one, if you're curious as to who I am, as well as why I sent this, and don't worry, it's in English. But don't read it until your brother, and your big sister figure is back with their new friends." Yaya read, noticing that there was indeed another message that got sent to the laptop just recently.

"P.P.S, if you're wondering why this message is in Chinese, it's so that Cortex won't be able to read it, should he intercept this message. And I'm certain that he's unable to have it translated with the software that he had in his Space Station." Yaya finished reading out.

Which left the gang impressed, that even though Yaya spoke perfect English, complete with the accent, she shown them that she still knows how to speak, and read her native language. (Panda's are supposed to be from China after all.)

"Wow. Are you from China?" Coco asked, surprised, and impressed.

"Of course I am. I was born there after all. By the way, name's Yaya Panda." She said, holding out her hand for a handshake.

Which Coco gave her, feeling like she was going to be best friends with Yaya in the near future. "Nice to meet you. I'm Coco Bandicoot." She said.

Then the Bandicoot girls proceeded to reintroduce themselves to Coco, feeling convinced that they were travelling with a different Coco, whom wasn't the one that they're talking to. With Polar being introduced to her as he got petted by Coco. Whom felt that he would make a nice pet. She just needs to find a way to help Polar speak to them.

And with Pasadena being the last to do so.

Then there was Nina, who was recovering from her unconsciousness, as she got back up. "What happened? What'd I do?" She asked a little loopy.

"And that would be Nina Cortex. Niece to Neo Cortex himself. But don't worry, she's a friend of ours." Tawna said to Coco.

Who remembered what the message might've been referring to, when it told her of who the other friend was, who was related to the scientist that she realized was Neo Cortex, concerning the lower case 'n' on her head. And she was quickly apologetic at what she's done to Nina as she hugged her. "I'm sorry Nina. I thought you were an intruder that was trying to kill me for Cortex. I didn't know it was you." Coco said, hugging Nina.

Who returned with her own hug to her, while making sure to use her arms for it, and not her robotic hands. "Tis alright, bandicutie, Nina shouldn't have barged in." She responded. Startling Coco at the nickname, but she didn't protest.

"Now that the introductions are over, mind if I let you read the new message?" Yaya asked, showing Coco the message.

Which she proceeded to open up to read.

"Dear friends of mine.

If you're reading this, you've probably found out that the Coco that you're with, happens to be confused, and seems to have no remembrance of her journey with you guys. Well I have an explanation for this. You see, she was indeed on this island the whole time.

While the Coco you all were with, is from the future. And I am her." The message said, shocking the gang.

Meanwhile…

Coco was back at her laboratory in her home, as she was walking her way to a little chamber that was near a machine. All while her message kept on being read.

"Or to be precise, I'm from the future of my timeline, where we end up losing touch with our dimension's Tawna shortly after we were rescued by big brother, for unknown reasons. And to this day, I didn't know where she is, or why she's gone.

Not that it bothered us too much, as my brother didn't show much sadness. Especially since we're sure that she isn't in danger, or worse. And that she would eventually come back.

But mainly, if you're expecting me to say that the future that we're in was bad, don't worry. It's not as bad as you think. We're living life peacefully, now that our dimension's Cortex has bitten the dust. Also, there's another Bandicoot in my dimension that is like a strong brother to both of us after we saved him, but I shouldn't say his name yet. After all, he could show up in your timeline in the future."

Coco proceeded to enter the chamber near the machine, before its door closed down. Then the machine near it ended up turning on as it whirred and made plenty of noise as the chamber glowed and turned electric inside of it for a moment, before it then turned off after it was finished. Then the chamber opened up, showing Coco again.

Only she looked different.

She was taller to where she would be around Tawna's height, and she also had a bust that was similar in size to Tawna's, as well as her rear that was similar to Liz's, and she had her hair down, while having a band on the left side of her face that ended in a swirl. And she was now wearing a white short sleeved shirt with blue sleeves, that began on the shoulders, with a pen pocket section to her upper left, and it was short enough to have her baring her midriff, and yellow jean pants that was held up by a black leather belt with a silver buckle holding it together, while also having some grey knee pads, and her shoes were a brownish orange.

"Also, if you're expecting an answer as to why I passed myself off as Coco, if she was able to teleport to you guys, is because I didn't want to, as the movies about time travel, and dimensional travel would say, 'upset the balance of the universe' by outright showing, and telling you guys that I'm from the future. What if I'm bound to fade away, and become unable to exist should I meet myself face to face? What if I inadvertently cause either Brio, or Cortex, to come after my past self, causing me to get captured? What if I accidentally have an enemy following me from my present time, and he gets recruited by either of them, to stop you? I'm certain he'd be too strong to fight against. (Thankfully, nobody that hates me, was chasing me when I got to your timeline.)

And that's just one of the bad things that could happen due to time travel. And unlike a certain scientist who is obsessed with time, (Whom you'll also meet in the future.) I'm obeying that rule of what not to do in the past."

Coco then looked out of the window to the outside to see if there was any changes to her world. Much to her relief, there was little to none.

"And despite me being smart, time travel is quite a dangerous journey for me if I wasn't careful. (Even if I might've gotten a bit reckless at points.) And above all, it's also quite complicated to explain, to where I'm bound to have some trouble with wrapping my head around it, regardless of my genius feats. But the point is, I hope that I succeeded in stopping your journeys from becoming too hard to survive at the very least, let alone completing with both the Crystals, and the Gems gained.

There was some things that I didn't expect to change though, other than the fact that Tawna stayed, and even ventured with my brother on this journey. The major of which, was the other Bandicoot girls, Pinstripe, Koala Kong, and Nina, that was also sent against us by Brio, when it was only Ripper Roo, the Komodo Bros, and Tiny in my timeline.

At least, according to Aku Aku.

I haven't really known for myself if that's actually what happened though, I just stayed on the island too.

And as for why I decided to help you guys in collecting the Crystals, even though Cortex's plan was now exposed, and despite me telling you to collect the Gems for Brio as well, it's because I have some use for them myself. Which is why some of them are now missing from the slots of the Warp room, and from the cube that holds them, as you read this. Which to say the least, on the off chance that Crash, and Tawna would lose, (Which I am glad to see that it didn't happen.) Cortex still wouldn't be able to zap the Earth with his cannon."

Coco then proceeded to unpack the items in her pocket of her jeans, being a few Crystals that she sneakily got off of some of the slots in the Warp Room of Cortex's.

"Try not to worry, as I'm just using them for a good cause. And I'm sure that there's still some Crystals left for you guys. Which should go well with Brio's gift for all of you, and me, of your timeline.

I have hopes that you all may enjoy them. And may we meet again in the future.

Sincerely, Coco."

She proceeded to add them to a power generator in another room, thus charging her machine up, and making the lights in her home bright again, as well as powering up her machine that she was planning on using, much to her delight.

Suddenly, another door opened as someone else entered the lab.

Whom, happened to be an older version of Nina Cortex herself. Whom, unlike the version in the timeline she just left, was more of a moody, and hard glaring young lady, who was wearing a black T shirt with a red tie, and some shorts that was blue, and was wearing a trench coat that exposed her front, and her robotic hands were redesigned to where they were slender, while having some extendable talon-like nails on them, giving her an aura of someone who won't be pushed around. But she was also smiling, showing that she's glad that Coco was back.

"Glad to see you back, bandicutie." She said, hugging Coco.

"Glad to be back, and with my friends too." Coco said, sounding a bit older than she was in her other form. "How's my brother, by the way?"

"He's doing fine. His fiancé's also doing good too." Nina said smiling.

Causing Coco to get surprised. "You mean, she's back? And they got engaged?"

"Yup. That's the gist of it." Nina said with a grin.

Causing Coco to smile. "They were worried sick though. What were you doing?" Nina asked.

"Oh, just helping out my brother's past self in a different timeline that seems to have gotten created due to my meddling. And you're probably not going to believe this, but I met you in there too." She responded.

Nina was surprised. "Me?! I was there? Was I like me before the Academy changed me into this?" She asked, gesturing to herself.

"Kinda. I was told that you were there, but Brio busted you out before you were changed. And now you're with my brother's crew in their dimension. Which is good, since you won't become what you are." Coco said, giving her a hug.

Nina smiled at that. "What you mean, is that I'm not gonna become a bitch at that point?" She whispered into her ear.

"Pretty much. At least, I hope so." Coco whispered back, keeping her hug going as she kissed Nina on the cheek. "Shall I begin with what happened when I got there?"

Nina ended up grinning, feeling interested in what Coco was about to explain to her. "Hit me with your best shot."

Back with the gang, they were looking at the message in surprise at what they read.

As it turns out, it wasn't an imposter, or a clone, that they were journeying with.

"Santo sgombro. (Holy Mackerel.)" Isabella said.

"You said it Bells. What a twist." Ami said, also surprised.

Tawna though, was feeling relieved too. "At least it wasn't an evil imposter that we were with."

The gang agreed as Crash suddenly realized two things.

One: There was still the Jet board that he laid against the wall of the house.

Which he decided to show Coco. Who was surprised to see it, then was smiling at how cool it looked alongside Crash, Tawna, and the Bandicoot girls, as well as Yaya, and Nina, both of whom was also surprised at seeing the board.

Then there was the second thing.

Two: That he still had something in his pockets. So he pulled it out to see that it was the storage box that had the Crystals inside, only they happened to be fewer in number to where they were back to ten, like Coco's message said it would.

Which Tawna also saw alongside the Bandicoot girls, Nina, and Pasadena. "Oh, I forgot that we still have those Crystals! What're we going to do with them now though?!" She asked.

The gang wondered about that, but Coco was grinning at what she saw. Which Tawna noticed. "What are you smiling about Coco?" She asked.

Before Coco could answer though, Coco got a new message on her laptop. This time, it was from Brio.

And it was telling them that his ray is complete, and that they shall expect to be teleported to his laser's location in a few moments, where he'll be making the preparations for its use, now that the Gems are nearly in place.

"Brio? Why did Brio want those Gems? And wasn't Brio with Cortex?" Coco asked.

"It's a long story. But the small part of it, would be that Brio had a falling out with Cortex, and became his enemy around the time that this journey began." Tawna said.

"And he sent all of us after you all, in an attempt to stop you, your brother, and Tawna. But we were all freed by you instead." Isabella said.

"And he kidnapped me from Von Clutch's Motor World to use me to kill you. But ah failed too, thank goodness." Pasadena said relieved.

"And the reason why we gave him the Gems, is because he has a way to destroy Cortex's Space Station. Which, since it was going to do what you said it was, should he have the Crystals… that we could've given him, it would've… well, you know." Ami said ashamed.

Coco wasn't mad in the slightest though. "Don't worry Ami, you didn't know at the time. And he tricked you all into helping him. So it's not entirely on any of you."

That relieved the Bandicoot girls. Before they were suddenly teleported again, like Brio's message said they would.

*Time Skip*

The laser cannon stood tall on the top of a tower that was around the islands, as it was connected to some wires that connected to the laser, charging it up in preparation for it being put to use as it aimed into the sky, where it was going to shoot out into space, and end up blasting the Cortex Vortex, in the Space Station.

And by its side, a tower of Gems was made with a podium that held them in place with gravity, as they were ready to be absorbed into the cannon that Brio was ready to charge with them.

"A-Almost got it, a-and the C-Cortex V-Vortex shall be d-d-destroyed, forever!" He said giggling as he typed in the commands into a computer that was near the Cannon that he was about to fire at the Space Station.

Which had the Bandicoot gang, along with Pasadena, Polar, Nina, and even Yaya, smiling at what was going to happen in front of them, since they knew what the Space Station was going to do, so it was leaving them smiling that they get to see that the Space Station is going bye bye.

Especially Nina. Whom, even though she still loved her uncle, she acknowledged that he was still an evil scientist who manipulated her, regardless of his claims that Brio was doing the same thing. Which to be fair, Brio did do that too, when he busted her out of the Academy for help in fighting against her uncle. The Madame of the Academy was an unintelligent sort of lady after all.

But now, it seemed that his days of manipulation is over. And that's even if Cortex isn't in the Space Station, since he'd lose his work inside, leaving him to start over from scratch, or retire from his evil ways. Either way was good for Brio, and herself, as the Gems started to glow.

Which after the preparations were complete, the Gems were sucked into the podium's opening as the cannon was activating.

"We are now ready my f-friends. Now, Crash, would you like to do the h-h-honors?" Brio asked.

Much to Crash's excitement.

Meanwhile, in the doomed Space Station, Cortex and N. Gin was also making preparations for their Cortex Vortex as Cortex was grinning.

The reason why, was because after he lost the battle, he got intercepted by an asteroid that stopped him from flying away from Earth, and his Space Station. Where Cortex was then rescued by N. Gin when he saw how awry the battle has gotten for Cortex.

Which was where he and Cortex discovered that there was a bunch of Power Crystals that was also in the asteroid that Cortex collided with.

And he was happy as he can be at how he found another set of Crystals that he could use to charge up his Vortex cannon, and blast the Earth to enslave the entire Planet, which should include the Bandicoots if they're on Earth.

Cortex was looking down at the Earth, now smiling this time, as N. Gin was working on the computer, preparing the Vortex Cannon to fire at the Planet to consume the minds of all the humans on Earth, until they were his to command. And he was making good progress on the activating, and the charging of the cannon.

"Ready that cannon N. Gin. Soon the world is going to be mine, and my empire is going to be all encompassing, soon enough." He said grinning.

"But Master Cortex, *Wheeze* the asteroid that you've mined for these Crystals, was missing one. This cannon isn't going to consume all of Earth." N. Gin said nervously.

"Even so, almost all of Earth is going to be mine, and the small section is going to be eventually consumed by my empire, and soon, even my rival, and old protégé will be eating his heart out, as he kneels before my magnificence." Cortex said excitedly.

Just as he said that though, a globe portal formed in the room not too far from Cortex, and N. Gin, as they were surprised at the unexpected appearance.

Then they saw someone walking out of the Globe portal. Whom was quite familiar to both of them as they were surprised, in an unpleasant way.

He had had cyan blue skin, looking like it's cold as ice, while he had long eyebrows, and two equally long skinny pike beards on his chin. And he had a build that looked bulky, but it was mainly because of his clothing that looked like he wore some orangish-gold armor, which has plenty of clocks on it, and it covered all of his upper body before stopping at his waist, showing his skinny legs. And the armor was connected to a golden-brown, piston-driven machine that produced smog, and also seems to be obscuring his lab coat. And on his head was tall headgear with a small silver bi-pronged fork on top. And he held a dark grey staff that looked like an oversized tuning Fork.

And both N. Gin, and Cortex recognized him as their acquaintance from the academy days, whom the latter disliked even from that day.

"Oh. Speak of the devil." N. Gin said.

"Hello Dr. Cortex. I see that your experiments has failed you, did they not?" He asked grinning at him. "After all, I would've seen your Bandicoot 'generals' with you if that wasn't the case. All I see is 'Igor's ugly mechanical cousin' near you. And I see that Nitrous Brio isn't here, since he seems to have betrayed you, I presume?"

"Oh, it's you, Doctor Nefarious Tropy. I see that you still happen to look like a mix between that villain from that Disney film in Arabia, and the Genie. Are you here to grant me my wishes?" Neo Cortex asked mockingly.

The scientist known as Tropy, had his grin vanishing as he snarled at the comparison in anger while getting closer to Cortex. "I always hated that movie when it was first made, because of that comparison. But enough of this!"

"Yes indeed! Let's cut to the chase! What are you doing here? And how did you get here?" Cortex asked.

"You continue to underestimate my magnificence, time, and time again. You should know by now that I can appear anywhere through time due to my skill. And I can also appear through space, all due to my time twister. All I needed was this." He said, pulling out a Power Crystal.

Which Cortex proceeded to snag from him as he dashed to the power generator of the Vortex Cannon to add it inside. Much to Tropy's chagrin. "Augh! You miserable little brat in adult skin, give that back!" He angrily said.

"No can do I'm afraid. At least, not until I have zapped the Earth, and bring all of the people in it to my control. That's when I would give it back, after you look on at my victory in taking over the world, and finally kneel to me." He said proudly.

Tropy suddenly started to grin, regardless of his anger, before laughing at what Cortex said, which was much to his own chagrin as he glared at him. "Even as I'm about to take over the world, you still continue to laugh at me?!"

"Yes." Tropy said without shame. "And for good reason this time. As well as why I'm here. You see, as we speak, I predict that Brio has all of the Gems that he needs for his laser cannon that he's going to aim at this Station. And trust me, once it fires, your dreams of world domination is going to blow up in your face, just like this soon to be, floating pile of scrap." Tropy said mockingly.

"But that's impossible! The Bandicoots couldn't have possibly collected the Gems, alongside the Crystals! My share of the minions, as well as those Titans of mine, could've stopped them if they tried!" Cortex said, scared and angry.

"And there's another reason you're about to fail. You have underestimated the Bandicoots, as well as their skill, and their will in saving the world. Whether from you, or this 'force' that you warned them about. And with Brio currently on their side, well, I'm sure that a scientist like you can do the math." He said grinning.

Much to Cortex's horror, and chagrin.

Crash, Coco, and Tawna were smiling, as they soon had their feet over the button on the floor, ready to push it together, as the Bandicoot girls, Pasadena, Polar, Nina, and Yaya also was grinning at the scene alongside Brio.

"Ready guys?" Tawna asked both Coco, and Crash.

"Ready!" Coco said as Crash nodded.

After that, they pressed the floor button, causing the laser to activate as it was now aiming up into the sky in the direction of where the Space Station should be, while it was charging up.

"N. Gin! You must fire this laser! And quickly! Before-" Cortex yelled out.

Only to suddenly see an orangish-yellow beam that popped out of the Earth, startling him. Before it suddenly moved, and went through the Space Station, before disappearing. Causing the Space Station to start splitting apart.

Much to both N. Gin's, and Cortex's horror as they saw that their station was splitting apart, as it made several smaller explosions. "OH NOOO!" Cortex yelled out.

Especially since the Space Station was also starting to break apart into several pieces, with the explosions being made, the cables disconnecting due to being cut from their source, pieces of the Space Station was flying everywhere in space due to the explosions, and the stabilizers were losing power alongside the now badly damaged reactors, as the Vortex laser cannon was violently shaking, showing signs that it was about to explode. Which would end up affecting the rest of the station.

"MOMMY!" N. Gin yelled out like a little girl as he felt that he, Cortex, and N. Tropy was going to die in space. (Which he hoped would also happen to the latter, if Cortex would be happy.)

All while N. Tropy was merely standing around, smiling at the fact that Cortex's plan was crashing down around him. Such a satisfying thing to see, considering his rivalry with Cortex.

All of a sudden, time suddenly stopped, much to both Cortex, and N. Gin's confusion. "What's going on?! What happened?" He asked.

Then he saw that N. Tropy had his time tech on his armor active, due to grasping the Crystal that Cortex stole when it fell out of the machine. And his suit was pausing time. "Considering that you might be in a major pickle, I feel that you have no choice but to consider my offer."

"What offer?" Cortex asked.

"As you can see, your Space Station is falling apart, while you, and N. Gin, are about to die in space. But I can save you both, simply because a certain someone needs you alive. I'm sure you can tell who it is." N. Tropy said.

Cortex was confused at who this 'certain someone' is that needs him alive alongside N. Gin, and why N. Tropy was willing to save him to bring him to it. But he didn't think about it so far.

"You plan to save me?" He asked.

"Only on one condition." N. Tropy said. "You are to swallow your pride, and admit to me that I'm the superior scientist."

Cortex was growling in anger at that proposal, even though it seems to be the only way that he can be saved from his impending doom alongside his Station, and right hand man. But he was feeling prideful to where he wasn't that willing to be saved. "And if I refuse to say it?"

"Then otherwise, I can simply leave you to perish, then say to him that you refused to be part of his little plan, and that you have passed on in space. Which means only I, can execute his little plan for the world, and I would be pleased to bring it to fruition, while you are in the afterlife, shaking your fist in frustration, and regretting having refused my little bargain." Tropy said grinning, feeling like he has power over Cortex, and there would be nothing he can do about it.

All while Cortex was angry, over the fact that indeed, he can do nothing about it. "I'd rather die!" he yelled out.

Something that had Tropy continuing to grin. "Are you sure about that?" He cockily asked as time started to resume going forward, only if in slow motion. Which is what Tropy was doing, as he was confident that Cortex would cave in, and accept his proposal.

Cortex was running around, trying to see if he can find a way to escape from his now collapsing Space Station, as he looked around in the room, hoping to find an escape pod.

Unfortunately for him though, he didn't have any, since he didn't think that he'd end up getting blasted out of space. And by Brio of all people.

N. Gin also was freaking out about his death while Cortex was thinking about it. "P-Please Cortex! Is there something you can do?!" He asked scared.

Cortex wished that there was something that he could do to avoid having to bow to his rival back in the Academy. But his options were running low, and time was starting to get faster as the Space station was collapsing around him.

He could even feel it breaking around his feet. And soon, he and N. Gin would be in space, where they'd both suffocate. And sadly, Tropy would be safe.

"The clock is ticking Cortex. Soon, you'll die. And our superior is going to be counting on me to take over the World. Which would be my pleasure, if I'm being honest." Tropy said, continuing to grin at Cortex's misery as he prepared to leave and go back to his Time twister through his globe portal.

It was minutes of searching, and running around when he felt that there is nothing he can do. He can either let himself die alongside N. Gin in space, or swallow his pride, and let N. Tropy save him.

And he felt that he had no choice, as he really didn't wanna die in space. Let alone in general.

"Okay!" Cortex said, stopping N. Tropy.

"Okay, what?" He then said, expecting what he was about to hear Cortex say.

"You are the superior scientist!" He angrily shouted, trying not to shed tears at how humiliated he felt in telling N. Tropy that.

Which had him grinning. "Then follow me." He said, before walking into the globe portal. Which was where Cortex, and N. Gin both jumped into the portal together, just as time went back to normal, and the Space Station exploded into several pieces.

Which meant that Cortex was still around, and he was going to be coming back someday, little did Brio, and the gang know.

Chapter Text

Back on Earth, the gang was looking at the exploding Space Station like they were looking at fireworks as they were smiling at that scene. Even making Ooh's and ah sounds at the sight.

They were happy to see that their near mistake was being erased from space as they looked on in delight, and awe.

"Awesome!" Ami said while smiling.

"Y-y-yes. I know." Brio said smiling. "I-if there was another one of Cortex's Space S-Stations out there, I w-w-would blast it too for the fun of it."

"Especially if it has another Cortex Vortex." Tawna thought.

"But now that this Station is dealt with, I'm sure you're asking, 'What now?' Well, I would like to let you all know, that I'm gonna settle down into a quiet life of science, and potion mixing, now that C-C-Cortex is out of the picture." Brio said.

Which slightly surprised the gang, as they didn't expect him to retire from his villainy. "Seriously?"

"Seriously. After all, the last time I lost to you, Crash, our fortress was destroyed, all because of my mistake of going berserk after drinking the potion, transforming into a hulking monster, and trying to crush you under my fists, which caused the TNT, and Nitro's to create the fire. A-And I'd rather not lose to y-you again if a similar event of my defeat, will happen." Brio said. "Besides. My minions are gone now, and they won't be coming back."

"Damn right." Liz said, still glad that she's free from his control along with her best friends from the dungeons.

"At the very least though, I've won this b-battle. All this was our d-doing. The result of m-my p-plan, working as intended, regardless of its problems." He then said, proudly.

"M-My only r-regret, is that I c-cannot see the l-look on Cortex's face, as he sees that Space Station explode. W-wherever he is. B-But that's not important right now." Brio said.

The gang had to admit, they were in agreement with that statement, as it would've been priceless to see the look on his face as well. That is, if he was off the station when it blew up. Although Nina still felt a little bad that she was seeing her Uncle losing his Space Station to Brio's laser.

"But before we go our separate ways, I must ask you." He said, looking right at his minions, but mainly Coco. Who was dismayed at the question. "When you were created by our hand, we felt destined for great things. We could've been unbeatable when we stab Cortex in the back for wanting to zap this Planet. And yet, you decided to escape."

"And I want to know. Why? Why did you decide to escape, and live your life, free as a bird?" He asked.

Coco wasn't happy about having been asked that question, by Brio himself, since he looked like he was trying to be a victim. Even though he was deserving of her leaving, since he did try to kill her brother, when he was still rescuing Tawna, and later on, herself from them.

"Because I chose this path, as I refused to be yours anymore. Considering your desire of world domination." Coco said.

That was the answer that Brio kinda expected, even though he was still disappointed at that answer that came out of her mouth.

"Not only that, but I heard that you caused that fire that destroyed the old fortress." Coco then said.

"Yes. Of c-course. And I r-regret having done it, even though I d-didn't mean to cause it myself. I felt that I should've used a-another way to defeat that meddlesome B-Brother of yours." Brio said.

"But you did that instead. And then you lost not only the battle, before Cortex did, but also that fortress of yours, and Cortex's. If this is what's going to happen to me if I became a villainess, and lost my battles myself, then count me out of that business." Coco said, feeling that it is painful to be a villain, especially when it comes to suffering defeats that costs her heavily.

And that had Tawna, Crash, Yaya, Nina, and the Bandicoot girls smiling at her for that, as they felt that Coco would've been an effective villainess if she remained on Cortex's, and Brio's side. So hearing that from her, had them feeling happy that she refused to be a villainess for that reason.

"But that d-does beg the question. How did you escape the fortress before it went down in flames?" Brio asked confused.

That was a good question. As both Crash, and Tawna was also wondering how she escaped, and how she got on the blimp that they met her on after Cortex's defeat, and their celebration. They ended up looking at her for the answer.

"Let's just say that I climbed to the Blimp that we later escaped the fortress from, during your battle with my brother. But Cortex was there too, and he had me imprisoned on his Blimp, intending to use me as his own minion, as he tried to escape the fortress. But he had to fight my brother, and later Tawna, after she vanished. Which as I later learned, was from the power of the colored Gems teleporting her to Aku Aku, and Crash's side, shortly after your defeat, before using a giant bird to fight Cortex." Coco said before she started to smile. "And unfortunately for Cortex, big brother ended up beating him, alongside Tawna, and ended up rescuing me too. And the rest is history."

"So that's why you were on the blimp, when we beat Cortex. I'm glad that he wasn't able to use you for a minion." Tawna said, hugging Coco from the back like a big sister would. Making her smile back at her.

"And I'm glad that Brio is also unable to use any of us for his minions too, thanks to you guys." Ami said with the rest of the Bandicoot girls in agreement as they smiled at them.

All while Brio was frowning in disappointment at how true it was, since he still had some use for them. But at this point, he knew that it's better that he doesn't persist in trying to take the Bandicoot girls back to his side, (And recapturing the Panda girl.) since there is nothing he can do, other than fight them all for the girls.

Good luck trying to do that, as Cortex would say to him, if he was there, and watching this.

"Yes. A-And I suppose I should be g-glad that I have nothing to return to, should I come b-back to villainy, again." He said, feeling that he would miss being a villain. But it was for the better, as of now. "I-I feel that you're all in g-good hands, n-no pun intended, now that C-Crash, and his sister, and h-his g-girlfriend, has f-freed you all."

The girls were a bit surprised to hear that from Brio, but they felt that it was just him conceding to their desires for freedom, since he has no minions to fight them with. And he looked like a weak, and scrawny scientist who cannot throw a punch without his potions, and they all know it.

"B-But know this you Bandicoots. Someday, if we are to m-meet again, I have h-hopes that none of you shall end up working for the bad guy, regardless of not knowing it yet, like what h-happened in this journey. O-Or I'll make another a-attempt in v-vaporizing you all. A-And I will be e-even more determined t-to succeed." He then said.

Even though they weren't nervous in the slightest at the threat that he made, they knew that he could come back to haunt them, someday, should they get tricked by Cortex, or a different bad guy, into gathering the Crystals for them. So they took that threat seriously.

"We wouldn't dream of it. Just know, that should you try to kill us, regardless of if we were tricked or not, we will be just as determined to survive through your attempts to kill us, and beat you down, once we get to you." Ami then said.

"I'll k-keep that in m-mind. Although, I have h-hopes that we won't c-come to that, later on." He said, rolling his eyes at her threat. "Now you all may leave back to your Island's home now, just step on down the stairs to the teleportation chamber, and off you go." He then said, letting them go down the stairs to enter the room.

Before they could do that though, Tawna suddenly realized something. "Wait! Before we leave, there's something that I hope you may have for us." She said.

"Anything. If only to show you that regardless, there is no hard feelings between us, right now." He responded to her, wondering what she may need.

What she needed, was a mundane thing that had Brio face faulting himself, when he was asked for it. Which was a battery.

A battery, that he had in his lab, that he decided to give to her, much to Coco's joy at how she finally has herself a new battery for her Laptop.

Now they were all in the Teleportation room, as Brio was seeing them off into the teleporter, with Pasadena being the last to get on, after she gave her goodbyes to him, after telling him that there was no hard feelings from her.

Even though she still calls him a varmint for her kidnapping.

"And f-farewell to you, Possum. A-and of c-course, give Von Clutch my regards, once you return to him." He then said to Pasadena.

Pasadena kept that in mind as the gang now proceeded to the teleportation pod, as they all walked to the teleporter, before she too was teleported away with the gang, leaving Brio to his own device as he merely stood near his teleporter, looking a bit somber about what happened to him.

After all, not only did he lose to them, again, but he also lost his minions to them. And now he has little to nothing to fall back on, should he remain a villain. Well, so far at least. And that was the other reason why he feels that Villainy was no longer his thing, as he lost a lot from his attempts at eliminating the Bandicoots. And he knew, that he can lose more from his losses again, should they fight some more.

As the good gambling man once said. Brio 'knew when to fold 'em', as he merely watched the spot where they used to be with a frown on his face.

But he widened his eyes, as he felt that he has something that he feels, he should give to them, at least to really convince them that there is no hard feelings between himself, and the whole Bandicoot gang. So he retreated back to his lab to grab his item to give.

All while the gang was now back on the Wumpa Island, as they were now near their Island home again. Where they ended up inside, to rest off their little journey, since it was night time.

They were going to go find a place to build in the morning but for now though, they had to deal with the slightly tight squeeze of the house's size for them all. But it was better than nothing, and at least they were happy that they were all not in Brio's HQ now.

*The Next Day*

The whole gang was now outside of the house, now that they were rested up.

"Okay girls, make yourselves at home for now, while we find where we could build you a house." Coco said as she, alongside Yaya, Pasadena, and Nina, was going out to find where they can find a necessary location for a second house to build, for the Bandicoot girls, as well as Yaya, Nina, and Pasadena. (Not that the latter was going to stay, as she was going to go to Von Clutch, sometime after they make her a boat.)

All while Crash, Tawna, Isabella, Megumi, Ami, and Liz, were laying on the grass, with Crash, and Tawna using that time to recover from their minor wounds that they suffered, as well as, to a lesser extent, their major ones, particularly Tawna's, with her leg wound from Cortex's laser from his mech.

All while both Ami, and Liz had some changes in wardrobes from their last ones.

Ami still had her yellow and green colored tank top dress, along with her shoes, but she was no longer wearing her green pants, showing off her legs that was long, and muscular. Which, would've had any male looking at her legs with a smile at how hot they looked.

Liz was a similar story, as she too wasn't wearing any pants, while still keeping her miniskirt, shoes, and tank top. Her tank top though, was pulled down a bit, as it exposed some cleavage from her bust, and her miniskirt, happened to be a bit more mini, as it exposed a little bit of her panties to the open air, even if she were standing up. Which showed that her panties were green colored. (While if one were to look at Ami's, they'd see that they were purple colored.)

And neither Bandicoot was ashamed to let their legs breathe, since they were on a warm island. And it was just the girls, and Crash, and the Polar Bear that was on the island with them, so they didn't really care that they were showing a lot of skin in removing their pants.

And speaking of Polar, he was in a kiddie pool that was filled with ice water, to keep him feeling cooled off, while Coco also plans to build a freezing chamber to put Polar in, so that he can safely stay, and live with them on Wumpa Island. Sure he misses his mom, but he can still come back to her, courtesy of the portals, and still visit her that way, too.

For now though, he was just in the pool, while the Bandicoot girls were sitting around, smiling at each other, and at both Tawna, and Crash as they all lounged on the grass, feeling happy that they got their freedom. They were confused as to what to do now that they were free, but they knew that they can learn what they can do, with Tawna, Crash, and Coco by their sides, along with their new friends.

And they were relieved that none of the three Bandicoots were dying. Not even Tawna was going to die sometime in the future, regardless of her wound.

"Just give us a holler if you find anything. We'll be sure to come to you." Tawna said, cuddling to Crash too as he napped on the ground.

"Will do." Coco called as she ventured towards the beaches of Wumpa Island, with Yaya skipping behind her alongside Nina. (The latter doing it because she was happy to be with Coco.) Leaving the girls with her brother, and Tawna.

The former of whom, was laying on the sand, satisfied at the reward that he got, courtesy of his sister.

Which was the Wumpa fruit cake that he was given from Coco, as a thank you gift from her.

Not only for the Battery, but also for surviving the journey that he, and the others just went through. After all, it was a grueling journey that they just finished, and it was pretty dangerous, which had her wishing that she was there, if only to help them survive it, (Not that it was necessary, since her future self was there in her place.) so she felt that she owed them something for surviving it.

And she did promise Crash that she'd cook him up a cake from the Wumpa Fruit that he collects throughout the Island, (Having read a recipe from her laptop.) when his, and Tawna's journey was about to begin.

And she made sure that she kept that promise to him, even though she also served the cake to not only him, but the entire gang as well. They all enjoyed the cake together. Especially Ami, and Pasadena, who did love the fruit just as much as Crash does.

And now they were laying there, having a break from their meal together, as they were seeing Coco, Yaya, Pasadena, and Nina off.

All of whom, was making conversations with each other, and with Crash, and Tawna, about the journey that they went through.

As well as going through other sorts of girl talk with each other, about clothes, and even make up that they wore.

"So that lipstick is a cherry flavor?" Liz asked Tawna.

"Yep. And it's the color that my boyfriend loves seeing me wear on my lips." Tawna responded. "I have to admit, this lipstick that I wear shall be the only thing I'm giving praise to Cortex, for giving me. Other than this of course." Tawna said, referring to her body.

Which is something that the girls was in agreement with Tawna on.

"Be sure to share some of those with us once you have more." Liz said, looking forward to wearing the similar lipstick color, or a more brighter pink, or a more purple color to wear for herself, as a sort of description of her gothic looks. (She even admits she is a gothic Bandicoot from Britain.)

As they talked, they ended up getting more warmer to each other as friends. Pretty much to where they were talking about what sort of dresses that they could wear, what bikini's they could wear to the beaches, as well as how they would stitch them, and make them.

Which is a profession that Liz also happens to be good at, being making fashionable dresses, as well as dresses that would describe a their character. Like a tank top, and shorts for Liz, describing her tomboyish attitude, and traits, while Liz would make a dark two-piece bikini, with her bottoms being skimpy short shorts, or a thong, to describe herself as a queen of beauty.

While for Megumi, it would be a kimono to describe her birth in Japan, while for Isabella, it would be a form fitting mechanic uniform to describe her prowess in engineering for Karts, among other vehicles, while also making another two piece skin tight jumpsuit in a green color to describe her love for racing. And so on for the rest of the group.

Speaking of Isabella though, she was feeling a little somber when she was talking with Tawna, which she noticed. And that had her feeling a bit of concern for her.

Sure she nearly fought her for Crash, back in the Warp Room, before Cortex, and later Coco, interrupted the impending fight after the insults were flung, but outside of her desire for Crash, Tawna did feel that Isabella had a heart of gold, regardless of being the 'Marsupiale Furioso' considering her own friendship with the rest of the Bandicoot girls that they freed. So even though she was protective of Crash when it came to her, and she hates it when Isabella kisses him, she didn't outright hate her guts in general.

"What's wrong Isabella?" She asked.

"Nothing is wrong. I'm okay. It's just that… I am so sorry." She somberly said.

Tawna was startled at what she said last, being an apology. "For what?"

"I nearly fought you for the Carino. (Cutie.) And after seeing you fight alongside him like a great teammate, via Brio's screen when we were done with the last Gem, and Crystal, I started to regret having done such a thing. After all, you were right. He saved you first. And I never even met him until you've rescued me first on this journey." Isabella said. "That, and he seemed like he was happy while with you. And in hindsight, it would've been quite mean of me to try to take him from you, if it'd make him sad."

Tawna was surprised that Isabella was feeling embarrassed about their near fight that they had back there. And at this point, she feels that they might still have a fight to get into, now that they're back on the Island again. And with Isabella at an advantage since Tawna was still pretty hurt from the fight against Cortex, despite having healed. (She's still able to fight hard for Crash, nonetheless.) But now it seemed to her that their fight may not be happening anytime soon, let alone, anytime afterwards.

"So what you're saying, is that you're probably acknowledging that Crash, and I, belong to each other?" Tawna asked.

Isabella nodded in response, even though she was still somber, like she was feeling a little reluctant in doing so. "Si. Even though I am confident that I'd win him over, just in case you're gone, I feel that he enjoys being with you. And I admit, it'd be cruel of me to take him from you without considering how he'd feel about that loss. And cruelty, is not what I'd do in this situation. Can you forgive me for our near fight for him?"

Even though Tawna was still hoping to keep an eye on her, just in case she'd still make a move towards Crash behind her back, she was willing to bury the hatchet with her.

So she smiled politely at her after a minute of thinking. "Apology accepted. You, and your friends were pretty helpful in freeing the rest of you from Brio, and for helping us with the Gems, and Crystals, throughout our journey. So I can let bygones be bygones, and let us start over as friends. I just hope for our sake, that you mean it when you said that Crash, and I are a great team, and that we belong together." Tawna said, giving a handshake to Isabella.

Whom accepted it without hesitation. Even though she admits, she still loves him nonetheless. And that she would hope to be a good replacement for Tawna, just in case she bites the dust. But for now, she was letting Crash stay by her side.

Suddenly, as they kept on talking, Coco ended up running back to them, looking like she saw a golden ingot in the sand. "Guys! Guys! There's something you guys have to see!" She said.

Which startled them all at that, including Crash, who woke up at her voice. "What is it Coco?" Tawna asked.

"There's a capsule machine on the beach of this island. Yaya, Pasadena, and Nina is checking it out as we speak. Now I need to show you all of it." Coco said, bringing Tawna, Crash, and the Bandicoot girls with her.

After some jogging, they all ended up meeting back up with the rest of the group, where sure enough, there was a capsule on the beach, like it was launched there from another Island, or from space. Either way, they all were curious at what that was.

And they were curious about what it was on the island for, and why it was on their island. And whether it was from Cortex, (As his final spiteful shot towards the Bandicoots.) or Brio, (If he was either gifting them something, or if he's trying to kill them, despite retiring from villainy himself.) or from some sort of technologically smart fan of theirs.

Either way, they were hopeful that it was a beneficial gift, and not a bad one that would attempt to kill them.

"What is that?" Tawna asked.

The group just shrugged in response, since all of them, even Coco didn't knows what it was that was on the sand of the Island that they were on.

"Why don't we poke it with a stick?!" Yaya said, looking around on the beach for the aforementioned object.

"I don't think that's how it works when it comes to machines turning on." Coco said, knowing that no machine would react to something like that, unless they were to hit it hard enough for it to break down from the hit.

"You'd be surprised." Yaya said, having seen some cartoons, and movies with killer robots, that had that situation happening.

"Could it be some sort of robot boxer? Cause I think I can use the exorcise from it." Ami said with a smile, imagining boxing out a robot.

"Maybe it could be a storage for karts." Isabella said, imagining driving around the island in karts with her friends, including their three friends in Tawna, Crash, and Coco.

"Could it be a collection of perfumes?" Megumi said, thinking about what sort of perfume she could use. Among other make up that she could share with her female friends, including Tawna, and Coco.

"Could it be a pair of new hands?" Nina also wondered, feeling that she would be happy to have some new robotic hands to hug with. Especially when they don't crush the ones being hugged. Like the adorable critters, or Coco herself.

Liz though, was merely imagining what else could be inside the capsule, whether it could be a handsome robotic man, a couple rock instruments to play with, and form a band, or even an opportunity to go to be an actress in great movies, or even a model in magazines. (Not to mention an appearance on Bandiboy.) Either of which, she would be delighted to take.

Before they could continue to speak, or do something, the object ended up opening up like an unfolding box.

"AHH-" *SPLAT*

With Crash getting crushed by one of the sides of the box. Which showed just what was inside of it.

Which looked like a compact machine that creates the robotic minions that some of the group was familiar with throughout their journey for the Crystals, as well as back in the fortress. As well as a computer that was on its front. Which was surprising to see, as well as confusing.

Then Coco found a note. "Hey guys! A note's on it. And… it's from Brio." Coco said surprised on the last part. While Crash dug himself out from the sand with Tawna's help, as they were surprised at what Coco said.

"It says,

'Dear B-Bandicoots.

If you're wondering why a machine like this is on the Island with you all, the answer is interesting, and simple. You see, I m-may be retiring, but I feel that I owe you folks something for trying to kill you all throughout your journey. (Not t-to mention, trying to take my m-minions back from the group.) And I t-think, that the battery for the young Bandicoot girl was not enough of a r-reward for stopping C-Cortex from taking over the W-World.

S-So, I decided that this would be more necessary of a reward for you all. A machine that is full of m-mine, and C-Cortex's robot minions. Which currently holds at least twenty of them inside, that I have teleported to your island. They are yours for now, and they can help you with a couple things. Like building a new house for the B-Bandicoot girls, and at least four more things to build for you, until they are done.

That is when they'll be teleported back to me again. So d-don't expect them to be your servants from now on, and to have them eventually build you guys a castle, later on afterwards. They can only build you another house, and a pair of objects to create too, and that is it.

But don't be dismayed, a-at least you have your new home for the B-Bandicoot girls, that they can live with you on. J-Just think of it as my a-apology for trying to kill you all, and f-for saving the W-World from that disgusting rodent in the lab coat. (But the fact that you kept on inadvertently helping Cortex, ensured that they won't be yours to control forever.)

I merely hope that this will be the end of our rivalry, and your hatred towards me. And I just hope that my former minions will be okay, now that they are with you from now on. If you know what is good for you.

May your future be bright from here. And until we meet again.

Sincerely, Dr. Nitrous Brio."

Coco finished the message being told as the group looked on in awe of what she read to them about the machine.

"Robots that can build us some things, like our new house?! THAT'S AWESOME!" Ami exclaimed happily, jumping in the air in excitement.

As did the rest of the Bandicoot girls, Tawna, Nina, Yaya, and Pasadena, as they were excited about what they were going to do with those same minions that the Doctors use.

It's a shame that they can't keep them though. They had some ideas of what they could be used to do for them, other than building them a home.

There was one thing that was a shame though. And it was in the P.S section of the note that Coco just read.

"P.S. There is no p-power source in that machine to make the robots work for you though, but don't b-blame me, blame my machine for siphoning the power out of the Gems." Brio's message then said.

The whole group deflated with dismay at what was read to them by Coco. "Dam- I mean, dang it!" Ami said, stopping herself from cursing in front of Megumi.

"What're we going to do now? It's not like we can use the water flow power to charge that machine up." Liz said, seeing that there was no flowing rivers that was on the beach. And she doubted that they could have some electric cords to connect to the machine.

Let alone, any cords at all.

Despite the dismay in the air, Coco was merely smiling. "Crash, do we still have those Crystals with us?" Coco said.

Crash ended up nodding, as he pulled the box holding the Crystals out of his pants to give to Coco, though he was confused as to what she wants with them. As was the others, but Tawna, when she realized what Coco could use the Crystals for.

"Wait a tic. Could that machine be charged, and powered on, by those Crystals?" Liz asked.

Coco nodded, as she got one of the Crystals out of the box, and ended up looking for the slot that could be used as a slot for large batteries, or for the Crystal in her hand. Where after some searching, she found a slot for the latter, much to her joy, (And wondering if Brio put it there, knowing of their collection.) as she was now opening it, to put the Crystal inside, before sealing it.

And much to the group's surprise, the machine was humming to life as the console computer that was also on the machine was booting up, for a grinning Coco to now interact with. "Nice that Brio has added this thing to the machine. Beats connecting my laptop to this thing to program it." Coco said as she typed on it.

After some seconds of typing, the doors opened up, and out marched the minions that they knew of from the fortress. Only they were now saluting them, instead of obeying Cortex, or Brio.

"Build us a home. And after that, there's a couple of things that you all shall also build for us after that." Coco commanded.

A command, that they all obeyed.

Hours after they were awakened, the minions did their job, and ended up building the home that the Bandicoot Girls needed, much to their joy at the sight of their beach house that was on the shores of the beach, like Liz, and Isabella hoped there would.

It was a Malibu shaped house, with diagonal round triangle roofs like the Sydney opera house's roofs, if it was made out of bamboo wood, and strong sorts of it at that. It also had windows that were glass windows, and was also added in.

And it was connected to a pair of docks that was also made with the house, one of which, lead to a hot tub.

It wasn't a luxurious home. But it was a start to something more with some upgrades. But they felt that it'll do for now.

After that, the minions were now put to work on something else that Coco left as a surprise as they, and her, was now in her garage, that was built alongside their first house in the Islands, with the group outside of it.

Now they were waiting outside of the garage. (That was also built by them.) As the group was waiting for what the surprise was. Considering that it's inside the garage though, they were sure that it's vehicle related.

And that had them feeling some excitement from what they were going to see.

"Are you close to done yet, Coco?" Tawna asked, after a couple minutes of waiting.

"Just about, Tawna. It won't be long now." Coco's voice said from inside of the garage.

"Could what you're working on with those minions, involve vehicles?" Ami asked.

The group could barely hear Coco's giggle inside. "You can say that." Coco responded. Confirming to them that it indeed involves vehicles.

Which had the gang imagining what those vehicles could be, whether they could be cars, motorcycles, or even karts. Which had them feeling stoked for a race with each other if it was the case for them.

After some minutes of waiting, the doors eventually opened up, showing a collection of vehicles that was now rolling up next to the group, showing them that those vehicles were indeed karts.

And they were quite a variety of karts that had them in awe at what they were seeing.

Like the classic kart that was what they expect to see if they were to think about karts in general, being wheels connected by some brass pipes, to a chassis that carries the leather seat, while having a pair of exhaust pipes on the back. Crash was quickly interested in that kart.

While the other blue kart next to it, was a bit of a more round version that looked like a mix of the formula one racing cars, and a bumper car, especially on the front of it, while also having a pair of exhaust pipes on the back. And Coco was riding in it.

Then there was a pink kart, that looked like one of the rounder classic 1960s UK sports cars. Only it had a pair of exhaust pipes on each side of the front wheel covers, and a top of an engine was sticking out of the hood. It also had glowing headlights like it had eyes. Which had Tawna focused on it.

Then there was a green colored kart that looked like a dune buggy, with big wheels below it, and springs to absorb the inertia of landing, and a steel front bumper. That kart caught Ami's attention.

Then there was Yellow kart that looked like a Le Mans racing car, that was yellow with a cyan blue trim on the edges of the body, while having a dark blue spoiler on the back of it, likely for easing the wind resistance. Isabella was hoping that, the kart is going to be hers.

Then there was another kart, that looked like it was a certain famous DeLorean car from a famous movie trilogy, only it was now floating in the air by the wheels, and it was a dark teal blue color instead of white. It looked futuristic, especially with the way it floats. Just like how Megumi liked it.

Then there's another kart, that looked like a late 2010 hyper car, with the nose resembling a Lamborghini Sesto Elemento, while the rear also had a spoiler that was like a McLaren. It was also a midnight violet color that bordered on purple colors. That kart instantly caught Liz's attention.

There's also a mint green kart that looked like a cross between a go kart, and a round sports car, with a generic white spoiler on the back of it, and it happened to have glowing headlights. While its wheels happened to look like sour candy gummy wheels, due to the sour flavored sugar covering them. Which had Yaya intrigued, and excited.

There was also another kart that looked like it was made from a musical organ piano, since it had an organ design, complete with an organ on the back of it, alongside the pair of exhaust pipes, while having three exhaust pipes on each side of the front, and it happened to have a pair of lit candles on each side of it. That kart resonated with Nina herself.

And finally, there was the kart that looked like a cyan 60s stunt car, with a pink seat inside, while it also had a decal of a large bird on the hood of it. And that was the car, that Pasadena was instantly taking a shine to.

And there was the labels for the karts that the gang looked at.

There was the 'Classic, Coco's kart, Roadster, Bandibuggy, Le Chaux, Probulator 2000, Champion, Phantom, Cove Cruiser, and Daredevil.

And Coco was in her kart, smiling as she was looking at the rest of the gang. "Go ahead. Pick your karts." She said.

The group didn't need to be told twice, as Crash got into the Classic kart, while Tawna got into the roadster, while Ami got into the Bandibuggy, while Isabella got the Le Chaux, while the rest of the gang was now near their respective karts.

"I have to admit, you are a Genia Magnifica. (Magnificent Genius.)" Isabella said smiling at Coco, whom was flattered at the compliment.

They were now ready to enter those karts, and go, when the Bandicoot girls suddenly had a thought. "Wait! There's something missing!" Ami said.

"What is it?" Coco, and Tawna asked.

"A team name. We need a team name! One that could describe all of us as a team! Whether in racing, or in any other area of expertise." Ami responded. Before she then looked at the rest of the girls. "Any ideas girls?"

Each one of them became pensive, thinking about the fitting name for them. "How about, Turbo Tigers?" Megumi asked.

As clever as the alliterative appeal could be, they felt that there could be better names that they could try first. "How about the Celerity Cheetahs?" Liz asked.

"Nah, how about the Turbo Fast Bandi-band." Ami said.

"That sounds nice, but why not the Mega Marsupiali? (Marsupials?)" Isabella then said.

The names were interesting, but none of them could vote on which name they can all agree on. (Though they were leaning towards the Mega Marsupials, as well as the Bandi-band.)

Then suddenly, Megumi ended up remembering the Nitro boxes that they avoided throughout their journey with Crash, after their freedom. That's when she had an idea.

"I think I got it! How about, the Nitro Squad!" Megumi called out.

The Bandicoot girls were surprised at the name, mainly at how fitting it felt for them, considering the Nitro boxes that they all avoided during their journey. There was some close calls, but they were all intact by the time the journey ended. And they felt that they have grown strong from the experience because of their survival through the journey.

So naming the squad after the Nitro boxes was a fitting name for them, when they think about it.

"Right on! Let's go with that!" Liz said, with the rest of the now named Nitro Squad in agreement.

"Then it's settled. We're the Nitro Squad. And who knows, maybe we have some new members to recruit." Ami then said, referring to Tawna, Coco, and Crash. Even though they were also going to add in Nina, Pasadena, and even Polar. Whom was still resting back in the house.

All the other Bandicoots knew who they were referring to, and they didn't really mind joining the Nitro Squad if they were planning to do that. (And neither did Nina, or Pasadena.)

"We don't mind." Tawna said with a smile as she revved up her Kart, alongside Coco, and Crash.

Or at least tried to, but her right leg was still feeling the burns of her wound by Cortex's laser, even though she tried to merely put pressure on the gas by using her ankle to go forward.

But she knew, she was still in the middle of recovering from her battle against Cortex, and so did the rest of the group.

"Are you okay Tawna?" Coco asked in concern, as was Crash himself.

"I'll be fine. I just think I'm sitting this one race out. But I'm ready to join, once my leg is fully healed." Tawna said, exiting her kart. "Just be sure to have fun with each other. Especially you, Crashie. Okay?" She said, kissing Crash on the snout.

He obeyed, as Tawna was now walking back to the house, while the rest of the group was now driving off through the jungle path.

It was hours after their fun ride through the jungles, that they were now back near the beach again as the sky was now orange due to the sunset, with Pasadena on the docks, near her jet boat that was also built by the Minions, and Coco.

The reason why, was because she was now headed back to Von Clutch's place, to show him that she's still alive, and well. She also plans on telling him that she has made new friends in the Bandicoots that freed her from Brio's control, and that she plans on having them race with her, and Von Clutch, once they meet again.

For now though, she was now on the docks, as her friends were seeing her off. With all of them hugging her in a group. While some of them, especially Nina, was leaking tears out of their eyes.

"See you later Pasadena. I hope, that you, and Von Clutch will remember us if you're both planning some racing events for us." Tawna said.

Pasadena smiled at her in response. "Now don't worry your purdy little heads. Ah can still come back once ah return tuh Von Clutch. And ah'm sure he'd accept having y'all in his races, later on."

"I hope so." Ami said, feeling a bit stoked for the competition of racing with her friends, if they all end up meeting Von Clutch.

All while Polar, who came to the docks to see her off as well, ended up licking her face out of friendship as they hugged. Which tickled Pasadena as she was giggling at that, while telling him to stop the licking.

After all the hugging was done, the group was now on the dock, as they saw Pasadena entering the boat, with her kart tied onto it, as she was prepared for take off.

"G-Good bye, Pasadena! I hope we meet again!" Nina called out to her.

"Likewise Nina! So long guys!" Pasadena responded, waving back to the group, before stepping on the gas of the Boat.

Only for it to not respond to her command. "Huh? Why isn't this thing workin?" She said, feeling a bit frustrated at the failure to go forward as she continued to press the gas.

*Ahem*

Coco got her attention, before pointing at the key to the engine switch, that was still turned to off.

"Whoops! Silly me!" Pasadena said, a little embarrassed at that, before she then turned the key, turning on the boat. "See you later guys!" She said, now pressing on the gas, as the boat was now zooming away from the island.

All while the group was waving their goodbyes to her, hoping that they'll meet again someday, if she, and Von Clutch, are able to find them here on the Wumpa Islands.

For now though, it was just them, their karts, their second home, and a new living place for Polar that was also built by the Minions, so that Polar has a cold place to reside in, just so he won't be forced to go back to the cold Antarctic's with his mother to survive.

Not that he wasn't going to go visit that place to revisit his mother, and show her that he's okay, and that the Bandicoots were taking good care of him on their island.

Now, it was them, and him together on the island as they were seeing Pasadena off. They all hoped that they could meet again someday.

It was hours after that, that it was nighttime, and the whole group were now resting in the new home with the Nitro Squad, which was spacious enough for all of them to stay in, especially with the sofas, and other beds that they all would rest inside.

And they were putting them to use, as they were sleeping the night away inside of the beach house with the Nitro Squad.

One of the Bandicoots though, being Crash himself, was merely outside in the dark, as he was sitting in the hot tub that was in one of the docks, as he was looking out at the dark sky, and the stars that illuminated it.

He was thinking about the wild adventure that he had, being his second adventure that he was on that involved Cortex in some way. As well as his first adventure that he had, with Tawna by his side, as she shown him that she was capable of taking care of herself as much as he himself is.

As well as the fact that his sister also joined in on the adventure. At least, that's what they all thought was his sister, before they found out that it was his sister from the future, who came back in time to help him, and Tawna, complete and survive the adventure. Which was one hell of a twist that he didn't see coming.

And what else he didn't see coming, was the fact that he would be fighting more Bandicoots like himself, Tawna, and his sister. Which made it relieving to know that once they were freed from Brio, they were friendly Bandicoots that he was glad to have made friends with. He didn't want to think about what it'd be like to fight them, if they were always on Brio's side from the very beginning.

And finally, there was also some new members that was added to his circle of friends, being Nina, Yaya Panda, and even Pasadena herself.

It was a wild adventure that left him feeling glad that he was able to survive it, and gain some new friends, alongside Coco, and his girlfriend.

Speaking of whom, he ended up hearing some footsteps behind him that was on the dock as they got closer. Causing him to turn around and see that Tawna herself was behind him.

Except she was wearing a bikini, that was red, and happened to have the word, TNT, on the top piece of the bikini, that showed her bust to him, as well as the rest of her beautiful body to his sight. Which was a sort of implication, that she had a, what the others would call, a dynamite body. Causing him to drop his jaw at how sexy she looked to his eyes.

Not even the bandage on her knee, where the laser wound was, detracted from her beauty, as she seductively grinned at him while joining him in the hot tub.

"*Sigh* It's so good to be back on this island, Crashie." Tawna said with a smile.

Crash nodded in response, as he smiled back at her.

Before they now rested in the hot tub on the dock, feeling their worries fading away, now that Cortex, and Brio was out of their picture. (Only temporarily on the former, little did she know.) Before she then got seductive again.

"The night is still young Crashie. And I feel that this is time, for my kind of way to celebrate with you. Do you think so too?" She said, pushing her chest into his own, making him feel her soft breasts on him.

Crash nodded in response after blushing. Before they both ended up making out in the hot tub, like back in their home before their adventure started. Complete with getting naughty with their making out, as Crash grabbed her breast, making her moan with a giggle before they continued.

Both Bandicoots were in agreement, that they were quite a lucky pair, not only in love, but also in surviving their dangers, and saving their islands, and the world. And they wouldn't trade this feeling for anything as Crash took off her top, and flung it onto the dock, leaving her topless as they continued to make out.

So far, life was good for them both.

Chapter Text

*A few months later*

"Hehehe, it's s-so good to be b-back home again. I never thought that coming back home here, would sound like a pleasant feeling." Nitrous Brio said as he mixed his potions around.

It was at least a few months after that day. When he won his battle against Cortex, by destroying his space station with the Bandicoot gang's help in collecting the Gems. And if he is to hazard a guess, he ended up ending Cortex's career in villainy by either killing him, or ensuring that he has nothing to come back to, if he turns evil again.

Cortex simply had no power over himself, or Earth, anymore.

That's not to say that there weren't any costs to Brio's attempt. In fact, his battle of wits against Cortex left him with almost nothing himself, since he had no minions left, by the end. His minions in the Nitro Squad, was freed by Crash, and Tawna's hands, his strong minions that he sent after them, from Ripper Roo to Tiny Tiger, was defeated, and even Nina was now defecting to their side. Not even his former minion in Pasadena O' Possum was able to stop them, as she too was freed, and in his eyes, was probably now back to Motor World.

So, the battle was merely a Pyrrhic Victory, for Brio. And he felt that he is unable to completely recover from this loss, and get his minions back. Which played a part in his retirement from villainy.

The only ones that seems to have won the most from this battle, was the Bandicoot gang that was sent on the journey by Cortex, to begin with. As no matter what Brio threw at them, he continued to fail to kill them. And that's not getting into the freedom of the Nitro Squad, and Nina, from his control.

This is why, Brio hated the Bandicoots, especially Crash himself. Crash happens to be lucky, and he's somehow winning, despite his lack of intelligence. Or so Brio thinks.

But even though he lost, at least Cortex lost too. Now the world is still free from his attempt to control it, and with Cortex out of the picture, Brio felt that it's going to stay that way. Even if he is unable to take it over himself, unless he recovers from his loss. Which would take years to do that. Hence his retirement.

Now, Brio was in the middle of mixing his potions around as his hobby, as well as to keep his intelligence sharp, and to ensure that he won't end up getting rusty.

"At least C-Cortex isn't going to bother me anymore. And won't be such a thorn in my side since he's no longer around to try to take over the world. It's a shame that I can't take over the world myself, though." Brio said, missing his time of villainy, either with Cortex, or on his own.

But it was for the best, at least in Brio's eyes, that he retires. After all, he was sure that should he try to conquer the world, Crash, and his gang, would be the ones that would foil his plans, and defeat him. Besides, at least Cortex isn't around anymore.

Now, he was mixing his potions, trying to make one that would help him grow his muscles, and would increase his strength. Which is unlike the potion he drank, that turned him into a green monster that went berserk. (Like that green monster from the comics.) Which played a part in why the old fortress went down in flames.

He wished that he can be stronger than he is now. Heck, he hopes he can be even stronger than Cortex, as he mixed his potions. Feeling that his little wish can come true at this rate.

Then, he ended up pouring the contents into a beaker that was on the hot plate, before turning the temperature dial until it was at least two hundred degrees, to cook the potion until it was finely brewed, and mixed enough for him to drink without any risk. He felt excited to see what his result is going to be.

But, in his excitement, he should've realized that the potion he was brewing, wasn't mixed properly enough. And that made it start to bubble and start to make the beaker shake around as he rubbed his hands in excitement after looking away for a bit. That was when he ended up noticing that there was something wrong with his potion. But by the time he did…

*BOOOOOOM*

The potion exploded, and filled up the room with some gas after launching Biro backwards. Leaving him falling to the floor. Now unconscious. Where he would end up later being found by his remaining friends, and would luckily, be sent to a hospital.

On the Wumpa Islands, a certain pair of bandicoots was walking on the islands in the woods as they explored the islands, minding their own businesses as they walked. They were basically looking around at the sights, taking a trip down memory lane.

Crash especially remembered going through the islands for the first time after fleeing from the castle of Cortex's when the Vortex failed to change him into a loyal Bandicoot servant of his.

Which was nice that it happened since he was eventually able to defeat Cortex before he could take over the whole Islands with his animal servants.

But beforehand, Crash had to run through the jungles, and forests, of the Wumpa Islands alongside his mask friend named Aku Aku. Who proved himself to be great help for him along the way through the Islands. Which was quite a grueling journey that he went through, not to mention a hard journey to rescuing his girlfriend, and his sister by extension.

After all, how could he forget, having gone through a 'Sunset Vista' where he was running through what happened to be Mayan buildings, avoiding bats, and moving blocks that attempted to push him into the water? Considering that he couldn't swim, after all. Even though he now could, but only when he was underwater with the scuba gear on. He gives his thanks to the Nitro Squad, Tawna, and his sister, for their teachings.

There was also his little adventure in the 'Toxic Waste' rooms just shortly before his fight against Pinstripe. As he had to avoid the Barrels that were continually rolled down to him in their attempts to squash him, from Pinstripe's henchmen. Some of them even had the barrels bouncing towards him in their attempt to try to crush him as well. And that's without the added risk of falling into the toxic waste in the rooms that he ran through. At least he got his chance to clobber Pinstripe afterwards, especially after learning of his own crush on Tawna. Which had him hating Pinstripe for it, and hoping that he wouldn't be able to take her from himself. (Which, he failed, much to his relief.)

As well as his running through the 'High Road' where he was running on quite a long bridge that had plenty of rotting planks that he had to jump off of before they fell into the white abyss below, as well as avoiding the strong and invincible warthogs that loitered the bridge. Even though he ended up getting on the ropes of the bridge to avoid the most dangerous sections of those bridges, before venturing onwards at the end.

Then there was his 'Slippery Climb' up the fortress of Cortex's. Where he was close to breaking down in tears during his ascent, feeling that he could fall down to the floor, and possibly die from the fall if the other hazards were unable to kill him. It wasn't an easy climb up his fortress after all.

It wasn't a fun time to be him, as he thought about giving up there. But he kept on going, reminding himself of what Neo was going to do to the world, and his girlfriend, if he were to give up there, and let himself either stay there, or just jump off to his death. And in doing so, he was now able to defeat him, save his girlfriend, and even save the World, and the Islands from him.

And at this point, Crash was happy that he didn't give up there. Due to what he's done, and what he was rewarded. And that had him smiling at the reward for his journey through the Wumpa Islands alongside Aku Aku. He did love her after all. And what they did together was fun in a romantic sense. Especially the fun they have when Coco ain't around.

And here he was, walking on the Islands with his girlfriend herself by his side, as they took a relaxing break from what they were currently doing, as they also remembered the journey that they were put in months ago, due to Cortex's attempt to take over the World from his Space Station that they blew up with Brio's help. As well as having four Bandicoot girls, a Panda, a Polar Bear, and even a Niece to his nemesis, as their new friends. Which happened at least 6 months ago.

It was not an easy journey, but it was worth it to have new friends, and save the world with his girlfriend alongside himself. And especially, since no one is dead.

It was good times, as they believe, whenever they look back. Sure it was a rough journey, but it was also fun. And it also helped show his strong side. Not to mention, how strong Tawna can be, as they journey together.

Speaking of whom, she changed her wardrobe, as she was now wearing a red sleeveless shirt that was modest, but also showed off her cleavage, as well as her large bust. While she wore shorts that was shorter than the ones she wore on her journey with Crash, to where it was now cut off a few inches below her butt.

She was looking a bit sexier than last time, due to those clothes, which had Crash continually praising his luck at how he was able to gain her as his girlfriend. All while they thought back to their past journey.

"*Smooch* Good times, eh Crashie?" Tawna asked after kissing him. Causing him to nod in return.

All while there was something different about both of them, compared to their past selves. Being that they both have tribal tattoo's on their bodies. Especially on their hands, and forearms, only Crash's were black colored, while Tawna's were cinnamon colored.

Suddenly, they ended up coming across a familiar village that they recognized, belonged to a couple of natives to the Island that Crash remembered meeting during his journey to rescuing his girlfriend from Cortex. He even remembered meeting their chief, whom was quite a big guy, if only for his massive belly that added to his girth. But despite that, he was a tough chief that he was able to defeat before moving onwards through the Island, on his way to another Island, continuing his journey to rescuing Tawna.

In fact, he almost had to work for that victory as he fought against the chief who wielded his staff that he tried to hit him with. And he had his natives that he also fought against, before his fight against the chief known as Papu Papu.

Luckily for him though, Papu Papu was not on Cortex's side. He just thought that Crash was a trespasser that needed to be driven off, or killed. But after his win, he didn't bother him anymore, as he had his natives let him go, as he proceeded onwards through the island, on his way to the next one. Afterwards, he never bothered him even as they created their new home on the island. Which, as Crash guessed, it was because he respected him, like a worthy opponent. Or a worthy friend to him.

And the fact that Crash, Coco, and Tawna built their home on the island, while away from Papu Papu's tribe, and his village, seems to have helped

Speaking of whom, the natives surrounded them when they were recklessly close to the village, commanding them in their tongue, to stay still. Which they both obeyed, though neither of them was afraid of them, if they were Papu Papu's soldiers.

Sure enough, when they brought him into the village, he was escorted to the chief himself, as he was laying in the outside chair, near the campfire, where he was told that Crash has returned, causing him to have Crash brought in front of him. (With Tawna close behind, since Crash requested her to be close to them.)

Where he then focused on him. Before smiling. "Ah, Papu Papu didn't think, that little rodent would come to Village again. Nice to see respected guest again." He said, petting Crash on his head with his hand.

"It's nice to meet you too, Papu Papu." Crash suddenly said casually, much to Papu Papu's surprise.

Before he then focused on him. "Is Papu Papu's hearing right? Or has Bandicoot suddenly spoke like man, when he used to speak in own language?"

"You're hearing me right, mate. I'm speaking like a man." He said with a smile.

"And before you ask him why, let's just say he was taught." Tawna said.

"Taught? Ah, friends teach Bandicoot how to speak, is Papu Papu correct?" He asked. "And I see that both Bandicoots have tattoos, Papu Papu presumes?"

Crash, and Tawna nodded in response, showing their tattoos off to him.

"Makes sense to Papu Papu. Here, sit with Papu Papu." He said, wanting to make conversation with both Bandicoots. Both of whom obeyed, and sat with him near the campfire. "What brings Bandicoots to village?"

"Oh, we were just exploring the Island after a huge adventure that I had with my boyfriend months ago." Tawna spoke.

"Adventure? Another adventure?! Do tell Papu Papu." He said interested in hearing more.

Crash, and Tawna, decided to obey, and proceeded to explain to him, on what they went through together, along with his new friends in the Bandicoot girls known as the Nitro Squad, along with Yaya Panda, and Nina Cortex.

Not to mention Pasadena, and Crash's sister, who at the time, he thought she was truly his sister. But instead, she was his sister from the alternate future. While his actual sister, was still on the Islands the entire time. And was trying to find him, and was hopeful that he, and Tawna are alright. Which they were.

"So, Bandicoot has sister? And from future that she came to help? What twist." Papu Papu said. "Must've been rough journey."

"It was, on occasions. But we all lived." Crash responded. "Thank goodness too. Since we've made friends from that adventure, with the Nitro Squad, Yaya, and Nina Cortex. Whom I'm sure you know she's a niece to." Crash said.

Papu Papu was chagrinned at the name of Cortex that he remembered, who plagued the islands that was nearby the one that he ruled. "Evil Cortex guy, from other Island?"

Crash, and Tawna nodded.

"Don't worry though. She's not like him. She's nicer than he is. Regardless of Neo cutting her hands off, and replacing them with robotic ones." Tawna said with distaste on the latter part.

Papu Papu did hear what she said. And he too was disgusted at what Neo did to his niece, yet he was also relieved about Nina. "Good. Papu Papu not fond of evil Cortex from other Island." He said, having already disliked Cortex, and what he's done to the other island, using it as his HQ, in his desire to take over the world. (And learning of what he did to Nina, didn't help his stance towards him.) In fact, that's probably another reason why he was respectful of Crash, regardless of his defeat by his hands.

Because he learned that Crash defeated Cortex. Twice. The first time being at his HQ of all places.

"Yeah, since he tried to trick us into helping him rule the world, I'm with you on that one." He spoke. "Trust me though, you'll learn to like Nina, once you get to know her."

Papu Papu was taking his word for it. "What happen after journey though?" He asked.

"Well, after it ended, we were able to build another house for the Nitro Squad, Yaya, and Nina, to live in. Along with some other additions to our own house that we were planning on making when that journey began. Not to mention some fun additions that we enjoyed, like some Karts." Crash explained.

Papu Papu was quite intrigued in the idea of the Karts. "Ooooh. Papu Papu hope that Papu Papu can ride in one, someday."

"I'm sure that Coco can build one for you, if you're interested." Tawna said. "After that though, and after sending off one of our friends, things started to slow down a bit."

"So, in other words, there was nothing else to do?" Papu Papu asked.

Crash, and Tawna nodded. "Other than the Nitro Squad, and my girlfriend, having fun with the Karts, after the latter recovered that is, as well as my sister tinkering with her stuff alongside Megumi, Yaya, or Nina, as well as Polar visiting us, and staying the nights, before coming back to his mother, as well as watching the girls swimming around the Island, we ended up living our lives on the island with no worries. Then Aku Aku reawakened." Crash then said.

Then he explained what happened after that.

*Flashback*

It was more days that passed since the end of their journey, as Crash, Tawna, and the Nitro Squad was exploring the jungles of Wumpa Island on their karts, making sure not to crash them into trees, or rocks. While Coco, Yaya, and Nina were staying in the first house, tinkering with new stuff that they could try out, and make for the house, or the Karts. Oh, and Megumi was with them too, which left almost all of the Nitro Squad, Tawna, and Crash, in the jungles as they were driving the Karts through the path.

The whole Squad was the same dress-wise. (Not counting Liz, and Ami's removal of their pants, that is.) While Tawna was wearing the red sleeveless shirt that she put on recently. As well as the same short shorts that ended below her butt.

Tawna wore this, both because she thought she looked sexier for Crash, and since she'd get a bit more flexibility from the shorter shorts that she wore.

For the former, she was proven right, as before the kart riding, Crash did express that he enjoys seeing Tawna in those clothes. And he hopes that she could wear them more often. Which, Tawna planned to.

All while he was relieved that Tawna was not wearing her leg bandage among the other bandages, since her wounds have healed. Sure, they weren't severe wounds, but they did leave her unable to ride the kart of hers until her knee wound was healed, much to her annoyance. Now that it was, she was having fun on the road with her friends, much to Crash's delight.

But he was currently focused on the road as the group was now driving through the jungle of the island, minding their business, and exploring more of the Island. When they ended up stopping in place when something entered their vision.

That something, was a mojo teleportation portal that was currently spitting someone out of it.

That someone, was none other than their mask friend, Aku Aku. Who was now floating out of it, and looked around a bit before seeing them. "My friends. You're all okay." He said smiling.

Which the gang was too, when they saw that Aku Aku has recovered from the fight, and was now with them again. "It's nice to see you again, Aku Aku." Tawna said. While the gang got out of their karts to hug him.

"Likewise. And I see that you've gotten rides?" He asked, noting their karts.

"Why of course, love. Coco was able to build them with Brio's gift. It's a long story. But it's pretty sweet, eh?" Liz said with a smile. "It's nice to see that you're alright now."

"As am I. What happened while I was out?" He asked.

The gang explained to Aku Aku on what happened after his exit. Which involved their recruitment of Nina into their group, and afterwards, when they freed another animal from Brio's control, being Pasadena, the opossum.

Then there was the moment, when they ended up learning about Cortex's true intentions, just as they were going to beat up Brio, when Cortex teleported him to their location. Only for Coco to foil the beatdown, and tell the gang that Cortex was indeed going to zap the Earth with the intention to control it. Something that Brio clarified to them too.

Then after it was said and done, and after Cortex's defeat, and after his Space Station's destruction, them, and Brio left on pleasant terms regardless of any lingering tension between them. Before they then got to the house to find out that the Coco that they were with, was another Coco from the future, while the Coco that was still on the Island, was the actual one.

That last part surprised Aku Aku, since not even he was expecting that the Coco they were with was from the future, the whole time. But what he wasn't surprised about, was the fact that Cortex was still a villain the whole time.

And that is before the group then told him of the gift that was given to them from Brio, which was used in helping them build not only the Karts that they were riding in, but also the Second house that they were also living on, that was also on the island.

"I should've known. Cortex always was a scumbag even before I met you, Crash. And after this, I don't feel surprised that he was still a villain this whole time. I just feel a little bit disappointed in myself that I didn't catch on to it sooner than now."

"Don't blame yourself Aku Aku, none of us were able to catch on either, until we were told by Coco. Sure, we had our suspicions, but we didn't know for sure that time. So, Cortex's sneakiness has done its job." Tawna said, feeling that none of the gang were any better in noticing something wrong with the plan of Cortex's before Coco told them.

Which did calm Aku Aku down a bit. "Thank you Tawna. But anyways, while I was resting in my lair, I recently remembered something that I felt, none of you needed, until now."

The Bandicoot gang was intrigued. "What could that be?" Ami asked.

"I have recently found out, that there is a way that all of you could control creatures that have plenty of Mojo in their veins. Which in our case, would include the Titans like the Scorporillas' and the Goars. Among other powers of the Mojo, that I could also teach you all."

The gang was interested in that little finding that Aku Aku has told them about. Especially since it involved the possession of Titans.

"So, what you're saying, is that even those Scorporillas are gonna be our allies, and rides through this little mojo skill?" Tawna asked smiling.

Aku Aku nodded, also smiling himself.

*Flashback Over*

"Ever since that time, we reunited with the rest of the group, then the Nitro Squad, Tawna, my sister, and I, ended up training with Aku Aku on using that skill with the Mojo. So that we'd have something to use against the Titans, just in case they show up. Either because of Cortex, or when a different villain ends up using them." Crash said casually. "And it was during the process, and even before that, that I was taught by my friends, my girlfriend, and my sister, on how to speak more properly."

Papu Papu was intrigued. He didn't think that Crash would be able to find some new surprises up his non-existent sleeves. But he found a way.

And he was feeling happy for the group for having a good friend, and guardian figure in Aku Aku. Especially when he was now teaching them how to take over the monstrous Titans that they fought in the past. "What good friend, that you Bandicoots have, for raising you well as guardian." He said in appraisal of Aku Aku. "Anything else to tell Papu Papu? Maybe involving Cortex girl?"

"Why yes, how interesting that you asked. You see, Nina, as we may have told you, lost her hands to her uncle, who then replaced hers with robotic ones." Crash said with dismay, still feeling bad for her. "So, after the journey, when Nina became our friend, Coco ended up bonding with Nina, and Yaya, as her friends. As well as the Nitro Squad, all of whom, she looked at, as like big sisters to her, as well as to Nina, and Yaya. Even though Nina herself feels that she's more than that in her eyes, which got under her skin, but the bottom line, is that she was helpful for her. And sis eventually got used to the attention." He then said. "She even taught her how to speak properly, so she doesn't sometimes speak in third person."

"Then, Coco saw a movie on TV one time, which was a sci-fi movie that involved some nanotech, or something like that. And that gave her an idea. Which she experimented with throughout the month since that day. Until the day after the beginning half of next month." Crash then said, before explaining what Coco did for Nina, alongside Tawna.

*Flashback*

"Nina! You can come in now!" Coco said, seeing that she is done with her development of her little invention. Now she just needed to experiment with it. And she knew who can test the invention out, as Nina entered the lab room with a skip in her step. With Yaya close behind.

She was looking curiously at Coco, as she walked to her. She was told that she was going to receive a surprise from her, when she gets the experiment done. Which had Nina feeling excitement, at what she was going to get from her. While Yaya was also curious at what Nina was going to receive from her too.

Could it be something romantic, like a box of chocolates? Could it be some sci fi books that they could read together? Could it be makeup, and a gothic kind of such that Nina would love to wear alongside Coco?

She was going to get her answer soon. "Yes, Bandicutie?" She asked.

Coco has gotten used to the nickname that Nina called her by, as he merely blushed a little bit at that. While Yaya merely rolled her eyes at the nickname. "I've done it. My invention is complete." Coco said excitedly. "And trust me, you're going to love it."

Nina was now even more interested, as she was smiling, and trying not to jump in excitement, as she was curiously waiting for what Coco planned on showing her.

Soon, she ended up showing Nina something that had her, and Yaya looking on in confusion.

A pair of chips was held up to her eyes, looking like tiny disks that was shaped like a triskelion. Only they had some glowing dots in the middle of them. And they were being held up to Nina's sight in Coco's palms. "What do you think?" Coco asked.

Nina had to think about it for a moment. "They look nice, but they could go with some recoloring once we add them to any bracelet to wear. And the lights could've been purple colored. Or maybe, could be the color of your eyes." She said, critiquing the bracelets.

"But they aren't intended for being fashionable." Coco said, telling Nina that there was more to those chips. While blushing at the eye color comment. "Trust me, you're going to love them. Just let me put them on."

"If you say so." Nina casually said, obeying Coco, as she let her put the chips on the back of her metallic hands. "Now what?" She asked.

Only to end up noticing the dots suddenly glowing brighter as they suddenly formed into her hands. Then they suddenly released some sort of brighter reflective metal from the center, that covered her robot hands like a liquid that suddenly appeared and formed around them like a second metallic skin. Much to her, and Yaya's surprise. "Good. Now, think of something that involves your hands. And prepare to be amazed." Coco said.

Nina obeyed, regardless of some slight nervousness that was in her mind at the sight of them. And she thought about her old hands that she used to have, before Neo had them chopped off.

Then suddenly, the metallic hands suddenly changed. They changed their colors, the fingers got slimmer, and the palms, and back of her hands were being thinner. Until they finally finished changing. Where Nina ended up seeing something that had her gasping in shock.

She saw her hands. As in, her hands that she used to have, prior to their aforementioned loss by Neo's hands. They even looked like they had her skin again, complete with nails on her fingers. Albeit they're still fake, since she knew that they're still robotic, but they looked like she never lost her hands to begin with.

And not only that, but she felt that she could be touching her skin again. As well as fur, when Coco softly grabbed her hands, causing her to feel the sensation of Coco's fur, on her palms. Especially since Nina gently squeezed her hands, and Coco didn't grimace in pain. Has her new hands suddenly gained the sense of touch?

"Wow! So cool!" Yaya said in surprise.

"My hands. Are these my hands?" Nina asked softly, in awe.

"You can say that. You see, these are nanotech hands, like from the movie we saw just weeks ago. And they have the ability to shapeshift your hands to any type, or shape, that you want. So, if you want to have your hands look like human ones, then you can do that. You want to have your grappling hands in another design? Then think about them, and the nanotech can do the rest. All thanks to these nanotech hands." She said, proud of her work. "So go on, test them out. Try thinking of some other hands."

Nina obeyed without hesitation, experimenting with new hands. Like the aforementioned gauntlets. Or the slimmer grappling hands. Or even for the fun of it, a hook for a hand, like with some pirate captains. Nina had to admit, she was having fun.

As was Yaya, who was also looking on in excitement, wondering what else Nina could do with those hands. While Coco, was also excited, and hopeful that nothing is going to go wrong with the experimenting, on those hands.

So far though, nothing was going wrong. And nothing was blowing up in their face. Nina just continued to have some fun with those nanotech hands. And she was excited about the tinkering that she can do to those hands, later on down the line.

And that brought some tears to her eyes at what was happening. Which, both Yaya, and Coco noticed.

"What's wrong? Don't you love your surprise?" Coco asked concerned.

"O-Of course I do." Nina said, smiling at her, regardless of the tears in her eyes. "I love this surprise you gave me. And I know that I'm going to have plenty of fun with it. I just… I didn't think I'd get this kind of fun back in the Academy."

Both Yaya, and Coco was startled at that. They forgot to ask her about her time at the Academy. But they felt that in doing so, they'd be digging up some bad memories, that would make her uncomfortable. So they left that alone until they were sure that Nina was ready to talk.

"You mean… it was not fun, back in the Academy?" Coco asked.

"Oh no, it did have its moments. It's just that… their kind of fun, involves stealing, cruel pranks, and even experimenting on animals. The latter of which… involves torture." She somberly said, with tears in her eyes. "And let's not get into the bullies that was all over the place."

Which startled both girls at the description, as they both cringed at what happened in the Academy. "Sheesh. That's harsh." Coco said.

"I know. There's a reason why it's called the Academy of Evil, after all." Nina said somberly, as she dried her tears. "There was moments, where I could've been breaking under the pressure, and the atmosphere of that place, especially since the other students were meaner then I could be, at my angriest mood. I even dreaded the time, when one of the bullies would suddenly aim his wrath onto me. And that'd be the moment when I would snap. And probably fight back. And never stop hurting others until they leave me alone." Nina then said.

Then she started to smile. "Which is why, I was glad to be out of there, when Brio busted me out, even if it was only to gain my help against uncle Cortex. But still, say what you want about him. But he did save me from that place. And I owed him one."

That was something both Coco, and Yaya, agreed with her on. If there was anything that they could praise, it's what Brio has done for Nina.

That was when they both knew what to do. "That's true. And we will make sure that you won't return to that place." Coco said.

"After all, you have us now! And we don't intend on leaving you for the Academy!" Yaya said, before both her, and Coco wrapped their arms around Nina.

A gesture, that Nina appreciated, as she smiled at them while shedding her tears, this time, out of happiness, as she returned her hugs. "Thanks girls." She spoke.

"No… problem." Coco said, cringing at the feeling of her hands squeezing her, and Yaya when she hugged them both, having forgotten to switch to her human-like hands.

Which Nina also noticed, and let go. "Ooh! I'm sorry! I guess I don't know my own strength of my hands sometimes! Let me make it feel better." Nina spoke, before kissing Coco on her ribs, where she guesses where the bruises could be.

Which was pretty embarrassing for Coco to be kissed there. Which was not helped by some teasing smirks from Yaya. Which provoked Coco's glare, that nonverbally said "Don't you dare tease me about this." to her.

Nevertheless, Coco didn't stop Nina from kissing her ribs, since it was a well intentioned gesture.

*Flashback over*

"Coco told me that she plans on experimenting, and tinkering more, with the nanotech hands of Nina's, later on. But right now, Nina was happy to have new hands that weren't too strong for any animal that she holds, causing them to get crushed." Tawna said.

"And boy did she appreciate it. Cause since that day, Nina was much more attached to Coco from that point. Probably to the point of romantic interest." Crash spoke.

Papu Papu was intrigued to hear that. "Bandicoot has nice sister, for her to do such a thing for Cortex girl. And Bandicoot say, that Cortex girl has romantic interest in sister?"

"Why yes. She seems to have a crush on Coco, regardless of being a girl too." Tawna responded.

"And being honest, I still find it weird that she loves my sis, like more than a friend. But she didn't seem bothered by it, since she would've told me at this point. So, I don't feel bothered either." Crash said.

Papu Papu continued to feel intrigued at the answer he got. Though he could care less about Nina's crush on Coco. "Speaking of Cortex, what happen to evil Cortex after second journey?"

"Well, Brio ended up zapping, and blowing up his Space Station, with his laser cannon, after we got the Gems. Now, it's just a bunch of debris that is orbiting the Earth as we speak. And even if they were to eventually be entering Earth, the atmosphere would end up burning them into cinders, by the time they start to get to the surface." Tawna said.

"Not only that, but if Cortex was on that Space Station, then he might be gone now. If he wasn't, then that should also mean that he has nothing to return to, should he be up to his old antics again. So, he shouldn't be of any danger to us anymore." Crash said casually.

Papu Papu was relieved that Cortex was no longer a threat to anybody, let alone him and his tribe. So, he was pleased at his second defeat by Crash's hands. "Papu Papu approves of victory over Evil Cortex. Little Bandicoot, and Bandicoot lady, has earned Papu Papu's respect. Both are welcome in village, anytime."

Both Crash, and Tawna smiled at Papu Papu in approval. "Thank you, Papu Papu."

"Papu Papu wonders though, where did Bandicoots gain Tattoos?" He suddenly asked.

Tawna, and Crash, had an answer for that. "Remember when Aku Aku woke back up, and was teaching us on possessing those Titans? Well, he had us branded with these Tattoos so that we'll gain the powers to do that." Tawna said. "And did we mention that there are more of us?"

"Why yes, Bandicoot lady has. Can they visit village someday?" Papu Papu asked.

Both Crash, and Tawna had to think about that for a moment. They were hoping that none of the Nitro Squad would end up rubbing Papu Papu the wrong way, causing him to sick his natives on them. But other than that, they saw no harm in letting the Nitro Squad meet Papu Papu, alongside Coco.

"That'd be fine." Crash spoke after thinking about it.

After some more conversations about each other, which involved the Nitro Squad, and how they were like sisters to Coco, Yaya, and Nina, as well as Crash's romantic life with Tawna, both Bandicoots said goodbye to the Chief of the village, as they went back to their home on the island after going their separate ways with Papu Papu. They ensured that they'll be visiting him, and his village, once they have the time though.

Right now, they were going back to their second home in the beach house, to return to their training with Aku Aku.

Once they were back near the beach house, they were seeing the Nitro Squad with Coco, as they were on a break as well, with Ami flexing her muscles, Liz lazing on the sand, sunbathing in her bikini, (Which was a naughty two piece.) Isabella was in swimming in the water, enjoying a good soak, while Megumi was with Nina, and Coco as she was on her laptop. Yaya on the other hand, was not there, but they were sure that she was somewhere else on the island, practicing her Kung Fu so that she won't get rusty.

And all of them, (Minus Yaya, and Nina.) happened to have tribal tattoos on them as well. Showing that Crash, and Tawna weren't the only ones that has gained the Tattoos themselves. And they were just near Crash's home until they noticed them both. "Ah, hello Tawna. Where did you go?" Liz asked, getting up from her back.

"Oh, we were just exploring the islands together. Thinking back to my boyfriend's journey throughout the islands back when he was trying to rescue me." Tawna said. "And we also met an old 'friend' of Crashie's, too. Who is the Chief of a Tribe that resides on this island." She then said, aware of how both Papu Papu, and Crash's meeting didn't start off on the right foot, what with their fight that Crash won.

"Crash is friends with Papu Papu?! I didn't think he'd be friendlier than last time!" Coco said in surprise, having been told about him, and his interactions with Crash, by Aku Aku.

"Well, he isn't on Cortex's side. So that might've played a part." Tawna said. "Speaking of whom, is there any signs of Cortex anywhere on Earth?" Tawna asked.

"None whatsoever. It seems that even he is seeing that he has nothing left to use to try to take Earth, or kill us. That is, if he was off of the Space Station when it blew up." Coco said.

"Let's hope that it is the case, if he was off of that thing." Tawna said with a smile, before she, and Crash were now cuddling on the sand, relaxing on their break that they have from their training under Aku Aku's wing, before it resumes.

*A few days later*

The debris, that is what is left of Cortex's Space Station was now falling to Earth after a few months of orbiting the entire globe, until the gravitational pull of Earth was now taking hold of them all. And like Tawna predicted, the debris were burning in the Atmosphere of Earth's, until they turned harmlessly into ash. But one of the debris, being the biggest part of his Space Station, was withstanding the heat, and was continuing to fall to the surface like a meteorite.

And it was falling down as it was headed to a location in the islands close to New Zealand, that was a bit south from the center of it, that had a temple in it, that was shaped like some mystical beast with its mouth open, showing the mouth of the cave in the mountain that it was inside. Almost like those that enter it, would be eaten.

Then suddenly, the debris was falling to the mountain that it was attached to, where it was now headed to the temple. As if fate wanted to destroy the temple, the debris landed on it like a large meteorite, causing both the debris, and the temple to shatter into several pieces.

Now the temple was destroyed. Then suddenly, a cyan blue spirit shot out of it like a blue fireball, as it was now flying upwards into the sky.

All while it was cackling in a raspy deep voice. "Free, at last!" He said, as it was now flying upwards into the sky.

Back with the Bandicoots on the Wumpa island, they were all relaxing from their other session of training with Aku Aku at the second house. Coco was once again on her laptop, alongside Yaya, Nina was experimenting with her nanotech hands, Tawna was playing some volleyball with the Nitro Squad, and Crash was playing on his Yo-Yo, watching them play. While Aku Aku looked over them all. Smiling at them having fun. (Polar was back with his mother. But he was still in touch with the gang.)

"Heads up!" Ami said, slapping the volleyball down over the net after it got passed to her by Tawna. Whom was playing with her, against Liz, and Isabella, while Megumi was referee for the match. And she was able to slam the ball down, only for Liz to stop it from hitting the ground, and continue the round against them. And all of them were wearing bikinis since they were swimming beforehand.

"Close one!" Isabella said to Liz as they continued to play, with the volleyball, sending it into the air.

Suddenly, cackling laughter sounded off in the air, causing the entire gang to stop in their tracks, and look around at the sky, some of whom was nervously looking around as the sky slightly darkened, putting a shadow over them.

All while Aku Aku looked terrified. "Is that… No!" He said. "Uka Uka is free? No, it cannot be. Evil, great evil has come."

"What's an Uka Uka?!" Coco, Nina, and Yaya asked in unison.

"I can explain… Inside!" He then said, retreating to the inside of the second house.

With Coco, Nina, Yaya, Tawna, and the Nitro Squad following suit. Leaving Crash outside with his Yo-Yo. Which he noticed, as he quickly ran to the house after turning. Causing him to inadvertently run into the door that he didn't notice was closed, knocking him silly. Before Coco quickly pulled him in.

Meanwhile…

A large hub, that happened to be like a mechanical island that connected to other smaller differently designed islands was in the water as it stood in place, in the ocean water that was far from any continent, and islands. So far, it was merely empty, with nothing, and nobody on it.

Until suddenly, a globe appeared. And out came a pair of scientists, being Dr. Neo Cortex, and N. Gin. Whom were now on the island, taking breaths of relief as they were happy to be out of his Space Station that they just escaped out of before its destruction. Now they were relaxing before they looked around at their surroundings.

"Where are we?" Cortex asked.

While N. Tropy was now walking out of the globe before it closed. "This, is my Time Twister. My masterpiece. Thrilling is it not?" He asked. "With this, I can travel throughout the timelines, and witness their history. Like if the British reconquered the Americas after winning the Revolutionary War. Or if Napoleon won the war of the Seventh Coalition, and eventually took over the world before death. Or even if Germany won World War one, or two." He then explained. "And someday, I'll be making history when I take over the World."

Cortex was still glaring angrily at him, alongside N. Gin, regardless of the fact that he saved his, and N. Gin's life. After all, he still felt sore about what N. Tropy made him do, in order to have his life saved.

"Not if I do it first." Cortex responded. "You may have saved my life, but don't think for a second that it makes me your friend. Someday, I will win against my foes, and take over the world, before you can. Then I'll be the Superior Scientist, while you are my inferior! Just you wait."

Tropy merely looked annoyed at him, and N. Gin, in response before cockily smiling. "I will. For a long time, perhaps. Probably forever, once I take it over first." He responded.

"Oh really? Or is your pride going to be your downfall? Especially, if you're unable to kill a street rat?" Cortex then asked.

N. Gin giggled in the background at that part. "That was funny."

Much to Tropy's chagrin. "Do watch your words carefully, Cortex. Because there is still time, for me to send you, and your lackey, back to that Space Station, as it blows up."

"Maybe. Or maybe you feel that our partnership that you're proposing to make, is too valuable to waste, is it not?" Cortex then asked with a smile.

Tropy was not happy at the fact, that Cortex might've got him there, as he begrudgingly nodded.

"Then I feel that you need me, so that you shall become like a sultan of the world. It's too bad that if the day was pepper shaker day, you'd be 'sultan pepper shaker.'" He then said, insulting Tropy. Much to his chagrin. "But to be fair, you'd be a good sultan. You'd even look good up close, you'd just look better from 'Jafar!" Cortex then said with a chuckle as N. Gin giggled at the joke.

Tropy was frowning as Cortex was laughing. But he did nothing as he let Cortex have his laugh, before responding. "Even so, I did not bring you here because I wanted to." Tropy then said with a smile. "I brought you here, because as we speak, that certain someone is coming here to find us. And he is on his way here."

"And who could 'that certain someone' be? And what could he want, that would be more important, than my revenge against those infernal Bandicoots for beating me twice?" Cortex asked.

"You'll know sometime soon. But for now, what 'Bandicoots' do you speak of, if I may be curious? Oh wait, don't tell me, they could be your failed experiments that are now a major thorn on your side, and foiled your plans twice. As I predicted." Tropy said with a grin.

Cortex was gritting his teeth at the accuracy of the statement. While N. Gin glared at him, yet acknowledging that he has a point there. "Even so, it's no matter. Third time's the charm as they always say. And once they fall, I can now rule the Earth unopposed. And even you, shall bow to me!" He angrily said.

"That remains to be seen, I'm afraid. Besides, I'm afraid that he's here now, and he wishes to give you a reminder." Tropy said smiling.

"Who in the world is he, that is… here now?" Cortex then asked when he noticed a blue spirit was now on the time twister with them.

Which then had his anger vanishing, and being replaced with fear at who the spirit could be.

"Why it would be me, Cortex." The spirit then growled. "And I see that you're here with your rival in N. Tropy, are you not?"

"I-Indeed, Uka Uka." He then said nervously.

"But enough talk. Is the world controlled yet?" The Spirit known as Uka Uka, asked them both.

"Preparations are being made in 'my' attempt to take it over, Uka Uka. As for Cortex's attempt, well… why don't 'he' explain it." Tropy then said, smiling at the impending berating that he was going to hear.

All while Cortex was now scared at what he was going to tell him, with N. Gin also being pretty nervous, as the spirit shapeshifted into his true form.

Which was a mask. But not an ordinary one, as this one was a voodoo mask spirit like Aku Aku. But he looked bigger, and the wood that makes up is face is a dark brown/black color, and he was sporting a large ginger beard. He has a small rectangular nose, golden pupil-less eyes with dull green eyebags, light brown eyebrows, sharp teeth that was shown in his red lips, and three bones; one is tied above his forehead, and two are seen dangling on ropes from both sides of himself that swung slightly with his movements. And he was emanating a red mist around him as he glared at Cortex.

Cortex remembered him all too well. He remembered that he was contacted by Uka Uka, in his dreams, days before his second attempt to take over the World, which involved Crash, and Tawna. And Uka Uka demanded that he should have the world taken over for him, by the time he gets free from his prison. While also telling him that he is aware of his first defeat that destroyed his fortress. And that he shouldn't lose again, or he'll be punished once Uka Uka gets out.

"W-Well, you s-see, I was g-going to take it over, b-but-"

"But you failed, have you not? Otherwise none of us would be here, planning out our attempt to take over the world!" Uka Uka then said, angrily. "None would dare to fail the Great Uka Uka even once. But you, Cortex, you have failed me twice!" He then roared.

"B-But Uka Uka! It was those infernal Bandicoots! I swear!" Cortex said, cowering before him.

"SILENCE!" He roared out. Making even N. Tropy flinch. "From deep inside my temple prison, I sent you simple instructions to follow. But you, and your underlings, have lost the Gems, and you have lost the Crystals, AND I HAVE LOST MY PATIENCE! There is now no other source of power to find on this Planet." Uka Uka then said.

"I know that we had a few unfortunate… setbacks." Cortex said.

"And failed!" Uka Uka then said, reminding Cortex of his defeats. "In any other circumstance, I would've sent you to another dimension of suffering, or killed you in a slow and painful fashion that would make you shudder even in the afterlife, or even tortured you until you die, or break like glass! But since your bumbling has managed to set me free, I am feeling… generous." He suddenly said with a rare smile being aimed at him.

Which did have Cortex looking at him with a confused look on his face. "You're… letting me off the hook?"

"For now." Uka Uka responded. "Luckily for you, and for all of us, there is still a way to amass the power that is needed to enslave this miserable Planet. And it is in this machine of Tropy's."

Cortex wondered what was special enough about this machine that made it possible to gain the power needed for that job. Only to end up realizing what it could be. "You mean…?"

"Indeed. This Time Twister of mine can get the Crystals, and the Gems, that are needed, by traveling to their original places in time, to grab them. Then they shall come back here with them in their hands." Tropy said. "And before you ask, it's to the Cortex Vortex of my own design."

At that last part, Cortex was angered. "So what you're saying, is that you're using a machine of my design, pass it off as yours, and then try to use it to enslave Earth to your control?!"

"You are… almost correct." Tropy said smiling. "Indeed, I'm using the machine of your design, passing it off as mine, and then using it to enslave Earth, to 'his' control." He then said, referring to Uka Uka.

"Meanwhile, both of your forces are going to gather the Crystals for this machine, to make this conquest possible! And if those 'meddlesome Bandicoots' ends up interfering, then have your underlings take them down, or do it yourself! Also, whatever rivalry that you both have, will have to wait, or either one of you that has started a fight, will pay for your disagreements, and incompetence. Got it?!" Uka Uka threateningly asked.

N. Tropy, N. Gin, and Neo Cortex nodded nervously. Though the former was confident that it won't come to that, as long as he keeps Cortex on his figurative leash. Otherwise, he can throw him under the bus.

"Good! Now our time has come, to take this miserable Planet, for our own. And this time, this time the great Uka Uka, will make sure that you will do it right!" He then said to Cortex, as some rifts appeared in the Time Twister's center, before a set of minions ended up walking out of them. Some of which were new, and others, were familiar. Particularly, a familiar Tiger that had Cortex's face lighting up at the sight of him.

Their quest for the world, was going to begin.

"So, who is this Uka Uka bloke that has your feathers all ruffled." Liz asked as they were now in their house.

Back with the Bandicoots on Wumpa Island, they were now sitting around in their seats, near the indoor campfire, as Nina had her arms around Coco, while the Nitro Squad was now redressed in their same clothing from during their time on the Wumpa Islands, and while Tawna and Crash sat together as the former wore her red tank top, and short shorts again, as Aku Aku was now ready to tell them about Uka Uka.

"He… is my twin brother." Aku Aku responded.

The gang was surprised at the answer. "That evil laughing voice was your brother?!" Yaya asked surprised.

Aku Aku nodded. "Many years ago, way before your births, my brother and I were powerful Shamen of the ancient world. And both of us knew it, as we were major figures in our tribes, with me being the healer, and guardian Shamen, while Uka Uka was the offensive warrior Shamen. There were times that our power could tempt us down the path to villainy, but I ensured that I won't fall for the seduction of gaining more power, as I sensed that in doing so, I could lust for it, and desire more power for myself, which usually leads to villainy, and suffering."

"So in other words, you refused to become villainous, and turn to the dark side?" Coco asked.

Aku Aku nodded in response. "Uka Uka on the other hand, couldn't resist its call, and instead, he desired to gain more power, which could allow him to take over the ancient world by force. I eventually had to oppose him when trying to talk to him always went awry. At that point, we were at war." He explained somberly.

"Eventually, our mortal bodies have come close to expiring. So, we had no choice but to expunge our souls from our bodies, and have them inhabit the tribal masks, like the one you see before you." He then said, referring to his current form. "I was content to remain as this island's guardian in this form, but Uka Uka's ambitions continued to take hold. So our war with each other has continued onwards. For years we've fought all over the Wumpa Islands, and possibly the world. Fighting in grueling clashes with my brother's dark powers, whom was intent on conquering the world, and possibly the others beyond this one, I continued to valiantly oppose him, regardless of how strong he was getting, until I eventually, and ultimately won my battle. Before locking him the underground prison, in a lost temple to protect the world from his malice."

The gang was in awe at what they have heard from Aku Aku, and what he went through against Uka Uka. "That must've been a huge battle that you fought in." Coco said.

"It's a good thing that we weren't there when it took place. We could've been caught in the crossfire. And we would've been history." Ami said.

"Concordo. (I agree.)" Isabella said with the rest of the group in agreement.

"Was there any regret in sealing him away?" Nina asked.

"Half of me does regret it. But as long as his ambitions for this world still remains, it was for the better that I did." He said somberly. "Now, after eons, my twin brother, Uka Uka, has been freed from his underground prison. Now, free once again, he intends to resume his conquest for this world. And he may not stop until he takes it, and brings it to ruin."

The Bandicoots were dreading to see that happen if Uka Uka is going to win. Which had them becoming determined to help out.

"And worse, he has another scientist to help him. And Cortex is still alive, which could mean that he wasn't on the Space Station that Brio has blown up. That is why, he must be stopped. And I hope, that it'll be us that can stop him." He then said, determined.

The gang was shocked at what they heard about Cortex being alive, (Especially Nina, who was also nervous of him.) not that they believed that he could've been killed when his Space Station blew up. And that there could be another bad scientist that could be helping Uka Uka. But still, Crash was getting up to say something.

"Oh, don't worry. We can stop him! After all, we did it twice, so it shouldn't be impossible to do it the third time!" Crash said determined.

"Crash is right! You can count on us to beat your brother!" Coco said with the rest of the gang in agreement as they all stood up.

Much to Aku Aku's joy as he smiled in response. "I am thankful to have you all as my friends. Be warned though, this may not be an easy journey. Come on!" He said, before they all were now racing out of the house, before running outside onto the beach.

"Just one question. Where could they be?" Nina asked.

Aku Aku had to use his senses to find the location of where Uka Uka, and those who could be working for him, could be. After minutes of that, he widened his eyes in surprise, then smiled, before he then vanished, with the whole gang in tow as they too vanished.

The Time Twister was already empty of the evil group, by the time the gang was now on the island, where they were looking around to see where they have been teleported to, as they were now staring in awe. "Where are we?" Coco asked.

"This is the Time Twister." Aku Aku responded in shock. "I remembered having overheard about this invention, being created by another scientist. But it was years ago, and I forgot who it could be. But I fear that he has a similar goal that Cortex does. And he plans to use this to travel through time."

"So, this isn't Cortex's creation?!" Crash asked.

"And this is a Time Machine?!" Coco asked, feeling pretty excited to put the machine to use alongside Nina, and Megumi, at least to see what it was like throughout history. And maybe they could see their ancestors?

"Indeed this is, and Cortex is indeed not the inventor of this machine. The other scientist is. But nevertheless, he, Uka Uka, and Cortex plans to use this machine to gather the Crystals that lays scattered across time. I've brought you all here to recover the Crystals before they do so." Aku Aku explained.

The whole gang had to admit, the journey through time was sounding like an awesome journey that they didn't think they would go on. Even if it was to save their world from Cortex, Uka Uka, and their allies' attempt to take over the world, and the timelines that they could try to conquer too. But they hoped that they could have some fun during this journey. Especially Nina, Coco, Yay, and Megumi.

"Here is how it works. To open a time Portal, simply stand on one of the five buttons on those islands that surround this one, and then jump into the portal, to be sent to the point in time where you can find one of the Crystals, and Gems. Then there'll be another portal, that can send you back to this place." Aku Aku said.

"That sound simple." Crash said, with the gang in agreement.

"Then best of luck on our journeys. My children." Aku Aku said, directing them to the first open gate to the island, that looked like a pair of medieval castle towers, with a metal hourglass hung by a rope, and some wooden gears between the towers.

Their journey through time was beginning.

Chapter Text

"Alright mates! Once we're ready, we're jumping into the portals, and grabbing those Crystals before Cortex, and that evil mask bloke does! We ready?!" Crash asked.

"Ready!" They all responded in unison.

Crash, and his friends, were now on the first island on the Time Twister, as they were choosing which of the five buttons that they would press, and go into one of the portals as a team.

They were going to make sure that they'll be able to stop Cortex once again, even if he is not alone this time, as he has some new friends of his. Particularly the scientist that created the Time Twister that they were going to put to use right now. As well as an evil mask that is known as Aku Aku's brother, Uka Uka himself. And he seemed like he was going to be a huge threat considering that he too is a powerful Shamen. But with Aku Aku on their side, they know they'll win if they try hard enough.

Now, the bandicoot gang was putting the Twister to use as they were ready to jump into the portal to which point in time, that still has the Crystals in it, as they made their decision on who was going in first.

Crash, and Tawna chose the first button, while Isabella and Megumi chose the second one, while Coco, and Nina chose the third button, while Ami and Liz chose the fourth one. Leaving Yaya to either choose the fifth portal to enter, or join any of them as the third teammate on their journey through their time portals. (All while Aku Aku was splitting off into spirits while he follows Crash, and Tawna.)

Yaya decided to join Coco, and Nina. Deciding that she'd rather be with her best friends, than to be alone on the fifth portal. Especially if she would protect them from the hazards, and enemies of their point in time.

Once they were all ready, they pressed the floor buttons, and jumped into the portals, one by one, as they began Crash's third journey, and their second journey with Crash, only this time, they were going through time.

With Crash, Aku Aku, and Tawna, they were flying through the vacuum of space, and time as they were shivering from the cold of their current flight through the time tunnel. They didn't think that travelling through space and time would be as cold as travelling through the snow back in their second adventure, if not slightly more.

But they didn't complain as they kept on flying towards their destination in time.

Suddenly though, they were now seeing a familiar face in Neo Cortex, who was appearing before them as Uka Uka was to his right.

"Crash Crash Crash, why must you, and your friends always muck in my mud?" Cortex asked in dismay, like he was feeling disappointed that Crash, and Tawna were now there, to fight against him, and Uka Uka this time.

"Well, why did you come back? Isn't that defeat we dealt to you back in your Space Station enough to have you retire from villainy?" Tawna asked, her hands on her hips in disappointment as she flew with Crash. All while Aku Aku glared at Uka Uka in defiance, which Uka Uka returned, with spite.

"Hmm… not really." Cortex casually said. Then he 'noticed' Uka Uka. "Oh look, I now have a mask helping me too. So, you both better be treading lightly, because we will find out which one is more powerful, soon enough." He then said menacingly, before vanishing.

Not that Tawna, Aku Aku, and Crash were bothered in the slightest at that tone, as they were continuing to fly through the time tunnel to their destination. Which was called Toad Village. And they seemed like they were going to end up in the Medieval Times, if the tents, the rope with a lot of triangular flags on it, and the dirt road was any indication. Not to mention the castle that was in the background.

Soon, they were out of the globe portal, and looked behind them, to see that indeed, they were in a place that was in the Medieval period. They just didn't know which kingdom they were in, as they looked around, seeing that they weren't far from a colorful tent that looked to be like a jester's, and across from the tent, was a house that was pretty fancy looking, having red shingles, white walls held together by round 2x4s, and even a chimney. It looked nice, for one that happens to be made in medieval times.

And there was a large castle that was in the distance, beyond the path that they were going to take, in between more of the tents that loitered the landscape. Obviously built like in the Medieval Times. Either way, this place looked beautiful to them. Even Aku Aku admired its beauty.

Both Bandicoots knew that they might need to head there for the Crystal, and probably the Gems, so they ran together through the dirt path that lead there while Aku Aku floated by.

Even though Crash was noticing some chickens that ran away from them whenever they approach it. He was tempted to chase after it in hopes that he could play with it, but Tawna grabbed his arm, before sternly staring at him alongside Aku Aku, as she waved her finger, nonverbally telling him not to chase those chickens, since they have no time for that. Which he conceded with as they continued onwards through the path.

Where they both jumped over what could be half of a log in their path, before seeing a Billy Goat that was walking side to side in their path. Which had Crash feeling tempted to pet it as he was jogging to it. "Hey look! A cute goat! Can I keep him?"

Much to Tawna's surprise, and concern, having learned about goats. "Wait, Crash! Don't!" She, and Aku Aku said.

Crash was slow to hear her, as he was about to pet the goat, only for the goat to launch him upwards into the sky. Before he then descended downwards.

"WHAAAA-HOO-HOO-HOO-HOOIE!" He yelled out as he was descending, before hitting the dirt. Much to Tawna's horror, then chagrin as she was then glaring at the goat.

Who was now frightened as it tried to run, but Tawna clobbered the goat, before she then spun it away with her spin attack, sending it flying as Crash got up while shaking the stars out of his head.

"Hmph!" She huffed, before focusing on Crash. "Are you okay Crash? I hope the goat didn't hurt you to badly." She gently said, putting her hands on his head to have him focus on her.

"I'll be fine. It's not the first time I fell down." He said, getting the stars out of his vision.

Tawna was relieved as they were both on the move again. "Please don't assume that goats are friendly. Because I don't think they're in the mood for petting at this time." She spoke to him.

Crash obeyed as they ran in the water puddle together, continuing onwards through the path.

Which, had a bunch of humans, and anthropomorphic animals that was loitering the path as they were walking around, minding their own business, as they weren't crowding the path they were on, which made it easy for them to keep going without slowing down too much due to the gaps that they took between the people.

They were noticed by some of the folks though, as some of them either just looked on casually without much thought, or others were surprised to see a pair of Bandicoots running through the path. And there were others that looked on in shock at their direction. Mostly Tawna's direction, as she was, in their view, immodestly dressed to the point of nudity.

"My word. Put on some more clothes, madam." "Good gracious, give her a robe to cover herself!" "Give that poor naked girl a towel!" Was among the comments she heard from the folks that saw her passing by, due to her sleeveless top, and short shorts that she wore, which showed off her legs to them.

She ignored those comments though, since she knew that there is no point, nor time to strike back against those folks that accused her of being naked, just because she wore her current cloth. Besides, they should get used to it, and they should know that she's dressed modestly enough. Especially compared to Crash.

"Why is it that none of them are complaining about Crashie? He's literally shirtless." Tawna thought.

But she didn't think about it, as they just kept going onwards. Spinning away another goat that could've clobbered both him, and Tawna if they weren't careful.

They suddenly saw that there was a frog that was in the puddle that was in the way. It was a large frog that was larger than the normal sized ones that both Tawna, and Crash saw back on Wumpa Island with the Nitro Squad, and Coco. It even looked almost as large as them.

Both Bandicoots tried to pass around the frog, at least until it ended up suddenly dashing to Tawna. And before she knew it, she got kissed by the Frog, much to her surprise, and disgust when she felt its lips on hers. She tried to pry the frog off of her, but it wasn't easy due to the mucus.

All while Crash was livid at seeing that sight. While he too tried to pry it off.

Then suddenly, the frog ended up transforming in a flash, into a man who was well dressed like a prince. Yet he looked like one of the minions of Cortex and Brio's. Much to both Bandicoots' shock.

"Ah, I'm finally free from my curse of polymorphing." He spoke. "I thank you, fair maiden, for the freedom from my curse. Now I shall seek my vengeance on the wizard who has turned me into a repulsive creature. But first, may I know of your name, milady?"

Tawna didn't give him one. Instead, once her surprise ended, she merely glared at the man alongside Crash, before they proceeded to clobber the man together in a fight cloud, out of revenge for the kiss. While Aku Aku inwardly facepalmed at what was happening in front of him.

Once they were done, they proceeded onwards, leaving the prince-wannabe in a battered heap, with birds and rings flying around his head. "Was it something that I may have said to the fair Maiden?" He asked as they ran off.

Which was where they ended up seeing some knights that tried to lift their swords off the ground, but the swords were too heavy for them, and they only briefly got the swords off the ground before they get stuck on the ground again.

Neither Bandicoots felt like helping them with that. Especially since they too looked like Cortex's minions. Which they believed, was sent here by him, and that other scientist that made the Time Twister.

"You there, Bandicoots! Not another step, or once we get this sword out, we shall smite you where you both stand." He said, continuing to try to pull out the sword.

Neither Bandicoot felt threatened by him. Nor were they willing to obey, as they decided to simply run around him, once his sword was still on the ground. Just so that they won't get chopped in half.

They immediately crossed a nearby bridge, seeing some more houses, and tents, and some people that was just walking, until they came across another podium that had a platform on it.

"What's a platform like this doing here? And does it float like some of those other platforms in our past adventures?" She asked.

Crash shrugged. "If it's like a few of those bonus and death route platforms, then I suppose so. Only one way to find out."

"Right." She said as they both got on the platform. And soon, they were floating off of the dirt path, and was now floating upwards, and towards the right of the path they were on, and to another castle that they didn't notice.

Sure enough, it was a bonus platform. And they were soon running on the path on the castle catwalk, that had a bunch of boxes that was on it, for the Wumpa Fruit, before making it to the exit platform that they got onto to leave the bonus section which wasn't a long path that they took, and had only a few boxes that loitered that path.

Soon, they were back on the dirt path that they took, as they were on their way through the path towards where the Crystal should be.

On the castle, looking out of her room window, was a Duchess. Who was looking boredly at the land that surrounded her castle that she stood on the flat section of the roof of. And she looked… different.

She was a blonde Bandicoot, who had a ponytail hairstyle, wore a frilly dress, and some eyeshadow that showed off her status of a Duchess, along with her medieval dress. And she looked pretty similar to a certain blond-haired sibling of Crash's. Only she was born and raised in this timeline as a Duchess.

And she was simply staring out of her window, looking at the lands as she spoke with the knight, whom was female. And was another Bandicoot.

And she looks like Ami.

"Dear Duchess, I must stress that we must ensure that we have knights that can help protect you from whatever this world tries to throw at us." The Knight said.

"I know. But could there be a moment, where I can be free to explore this whole place, without being escorted? Surely the paths aren't dangerous for me." The Duchess said.

"Maybe so, but there could be thieves, and pickpockets among other dangers that is among the other folks. Not to mention those damned rogue knights with the letter N on their capes. You do know why you're safe here, do you?" Ami asked.

The Duchess nodded. "Because this castle ensures that I won't be stolen from or killed by bandits. But surely no bandit is on those paths."

"You'd be surprised. Especially when those guys led by that jerk with an N on his head, appeared." The Knight said. "Nevertheless, I understand why you'd be like this. Which is why you're allowed to travel with an escort at the least. Just try not to wander too far from your knights, and guards."

The Duchess smiled at her. "I won't." She spoke. "Even I know better than to be rebellious enough to try to escape this place, since I can definitely die out there." Coco said.

Which had the Knight smiling at her. "And that is why I am fond of being your trusted guard."

She smiled at her before continuing her look out into the land. When she suddenly saw something that caught her attention. Which also had her using a spyglass to look closer at what she was seeing.

Crash and Tawna was on the dirt path that led to the walls of the castle that the Duchess was on, as they were breaking a bunch of boxes together. Almost like they were looking for something in the boxes… or was breaking them for some other reason.

"Who are those figures? And why do they look… interesting?" She asked herself. Then she was paying attention to Tawna. "What kind of clothing is that shameless female, wearing?" She thought.

Nevertheless, they did look like friendly Bandicoots that she was seeing as they kept on going, obviously not attempting what she believes they are trying to do, as they were continuing onwards through the path.

With Crash and Tawna, they continued onwards ahead of them, continuing to break the boxes in their path, until they came to a bridge, where there was a Crystal that was on it. Unfortunately, it was guarded by a pair of knights. Both of which, were the minions of Cortex's, as shown by their banners that were Cortex's. As well as the armor decorations that were showing their affiliation to him.

And unlike the other knights that were attempting to wield the heavy swords, these knights had similar swords, yet was quite strong enough to hold those swords with more ease, compared to the others.

"Neither of you shall pass. Nor shall you gain this Crystal. Instead, either both of you surrender yourselves to Cortex, or die!" One of them said. While a couple more knights ended up joining the pair from the other side of the bridge.

It seemed that the forces of Cortex's have just barely found the Crystal first, and they were going to give it to Cortex once he comes along, when they came. Now they both knew that they just have to fight those knights for it.

"Ready Crashie?" Tawna asked, preparing for her fight.

"Ready as ever, my love." He then said, as their tattoos ended up glowing.

Which had the knights feeling surprised, and a bit weary of whatever the Bandicoots are planning to do to them, as it couldn't be anything good. (For them at least.)

Sure enough, the Bandicoots zoomed to them as fast as a race car. And before they knew it, the Bandicoots gave them uppercuts to send them flying upwards. Before they roundhouse kicked the other knights to send them over the edge of the bridge. Showing off their increased strength, that seemed to be given to them by the tattoos on them.

Which was one of the powers that they gained from the tattoos courtesy of Aku Aku's Mojo magic training. Along with some others that they could put to use in the nearest future. Especially the power to possess the Titans, and use them as their steeds once they meet some. So far, they had yet to meet them, but there was other powers that they have from the tattoos that they forgot to mention to Papu Papu back on Wumpa Island.

This is one of those powers.

And they were putting them to good use against the Knights, who tried to fight back. And even though they did end up getting in some shots in, particularly on Crash with their shield bash, they were only minor, and both Bandicoots were quite flexible enough to dodge their strikes. Particularly Crash.

Whom, easily jumped over one of the knights to kick another one in the face, before taking his shield to parry the aforementioned knight's sword strike on him, before he then kicked him in the chest to knock him down. Meanwhile, Tawna dodged another sword strike, before socking another knight in the face, feeling relieved that his helmet left his face exposed. Before she then kicked another knight upside his head, making him fall off the bridge when he tried to guard the Crystal from her, and Crash.

And there was another Knight that also tried to kill Tawna, only for her to punch him in the nose, before uppercutting him too, which not only sent him flying, but also knocked a gem out of his armor, much to her surprise at seeing another Gem like this, as she decided to have Aku Aku hold it for safekeeping until their fight is done.

Soon, their fight ended in the Bandicoots' victory. As they briefly celebrated their victory, with Aku Aku smiling proudly at them, before taking the Gem, and the Crystal, before continuing onwards through the dirt path, breaking more boxes, while avoiding the bottomless pits that was on the dirt path.

All while little did they know, the Duchess, and her knight witnessed the battle against the knights after the latter had her attention on them due to the Duchess telling her and proving it to her. And, having seen that the knights weren't theirs, they were impressed that the Bandicoots were able to beat those knights without any use of their swords.

"Did you see that, Duchess? I didn't think that they could do that against them." The Knight said.

"Neither did I. But they proved us wrong." The Duchess said. "And did you notice that those markings on them, were glowing?"

"I noticed too. What are they?" The Knight said, looking at their trek that went closer to the castle that they were on.

"I don't know. I hope to meet them sometime." The Duchess said, seeing them getting closer. Probably wanting to enter the castle.

Only for a Globe to suddenly appear in front of Crash, Aku Aku, and Tawna before they then entered it, and vanished inside it. Much to the surprise of the Duchess, and the Knight.

"Or… maybe someday." The Duchess said, hoping that she can still meet them again, regardless.

Which, the Knight admittedly echoed, since she felt that they could be friendly. But only Time would tell at this point.

Indeed, only Time would tell.

Chapter Text

*Meanwhile*

When Isabella and Megumi went into the Globe that was summoned by the second Button that they pressed, they saw that the time period that they were going to, looked like it was underwater. Almost like they were going to be underwater in this unknown time period. While they were still followed by Aku Aku's duplicated spirit.

Sure enough, after they entered the Globe, and entered the time period that they were now in, they saw that indeed, they were underwater. Thankfully, they were wearing scuba tanks that connected to a mask for breathing, flippers, and a mask so that they can see better underwater.

Not that they needed the latter, since they could see underwater just fine, after having dove down underwater before, during their time on Wumpa Island, when they went swimming before. Showing that they can swim just fine, like Tawna, and Coco can. While they also… swam in the buff there. But they did it while Crash, Yaya, Nina, and Coco were somewhere else on the Island. (Granted they didn't mind Crash watching them at the least. But they didn't want to inadvertently take him from Tawna. Plus, they were doubtful that he isn't a pervert who would be peeking on their naked swim. But at least he'd only peek and not touch them, if he knows what is good for him.)

Now they were alone, and in bikinis, since they came with the scuba gear. And they were both swimming through the water, using their flippers to paddle through the water without trouble.

"Costante mentre andiamo, (Steady as we go,) Megumi. I feel that this underwater reef is bound to have some unpleasant surprises coming." Isabella said, her mask having the full-face design, and mic for speaking through.

Megumi nodded, keeping that in mind as she paddled her feet to propel her through the oceanwaters with the assistance of her flippers. Trying not to fall behind, or lose Isabella as they swam through the water path to the Crystal.

Which led to a glass sphere.

They both entered the tube that then connected to the sphere, that judging by the design of it, it looked like a Steampunk/Aquapunk designed sphere, while they both were feeling that it was a way forward through the sea path.

Which ended up leading to what they could describe as a slowly spinning circular wall inside a sphere, which had one side that was electrified. Which did beg the question in both Megumi and Isabella's minds.

Why aren't they getting zapped too since the water should carry the electricity around due to being conductive. Which meant that a large radius should be in the danger zone of electricity being discharged at the least since they were underwater.

They didn't know. But at least it meant that they weren't going to get zapped to death during their underwater journey through the ocean.

But they still avoided the electrified parts of those moving circular walls in the tubes, before they were able to swim through the tube that pointed downwards into an underwater crevasse that led downwards.

Soon, they were inside the crevasse, where they were in the middle of swimming, when there was some unpleasant surprises waiting for them both.

Which Megumi first saw when they were coming up in front of one of the cave mouths, where she saw that a large Eel was inside, much to her terror.

"EEEEEK! Unagi! (Eel!)"

"Unagi?!" Isabella asked in confusion.

*Chomp*

Right after that, the aforementioned Eel ended up stretching itself out of the cave mouth, before attempting to bite Isabella and Megumi in its attempt to eat them both for lunch. Only for it to miss them by inches since Isabella and Megumi were above the biting range that the Eel was able to reach towards. Any lower, and Isabella would've been caught in its jaws.

A fact that was not lost on her as she was gasping in terror before squealing. "AAAAHH! Anguilla! (Eel!)" Isabella yelled.

Which had them both swimming fast downwards, avoiding the other Eels that tried to eat them too. Which wasn't too hard since they swam far enough away to where they were both out of their lunging reach.

Which meant that luckily for them, none of the Eels were able to even touch either of them. Leaving them swimming to a safe place underwater, where they were catching their breath, and relaxing their nerves before they could continue their underwater swim.

"Whew. Chiudine uno. (Close one.)" Isabella said.

"Anata ga sō itta. (You said it.) Those Unagi are bad news." Megumi said. Considering that they both learned of how painful a bite from some Eels can be. Particularly the Moray Eels.

And that would mainly be because the Moray Eels would have a strong bite, and it'd be difficult to pry their jaws off of them.

Either way though, at least those Eels were unable to bite them. As they were now continuing onwards through the water once they had their bearings back.

Only to then immediately scream again when they both noticed that a shark was there. Trying to eat them both alive. But they both quickly regained their bearings, then used their spin move, (That Crash and Tawna were able to teach them during their post-Crystal collecting journey for Cortex.) which was assisted by their tattoos' power.

Which also gave them the ability to spin underwater without any water resistance, like they were still above the water without trouble.

And that assisted them in spinning away the shark, like how Crash spun away his foes with his girlfriend, and sister when they too execute their spin moves.

Now they were going through another more wider glass tube that held some boxes inside. Which they destroyed with their spinning. Before they continued onwards through the path underwater.

Where they were now swimming past a floating mine. Which thankfully for them, was connected to a chain that held it to the ground. Giving them ample space to swim over it without trouble.

Then there was a blowfish that they had to contend with. Fortunately, they were able to spin it away too when it was still uninflated, before it could sting them. (Or probably inflate either of them till they're balloons too.)

As they swam, they noticed a city that was off in the distance. Which looked like some sort of underwater city that was in the distance. Could it be that lost city that they learned about from Coco's laptop?

They were tempted to swim there, but they felt that they need to grab a Crystal first, so they both agreed to swim there at a later time. Probably if they revisit this place for another Crystal.

For now, they just continued on their path, where they were now in another tube. Which led downwards. And while in the tube, they felt the current pushing them downwards. Which was caused by a fan. Which they were relieved to see was behind a grate. Which would save them from a graphic end if they were getting sucked upwards into that fan.

That is, if it was sucking up the current upwards. But now, it was pushing them down wards, making their descent faster as they were now getting out of the tube after breaking down the boxes that were on the flat platforms that held them up.

Where they both suddenly saw a pair of some sorts of machines.

Which both looked like a front half of jet skis. With two large windows like the big eyes of some bugs that was on the front, while they looked designed like some front pointing jet skis with the fronts also having serrated blade on the front that seemed to go upwards like a part of a serrated disc blade. Which they believed helps with the aerodynamic design of those machines to help them cut through water, giving them less water resistance as they move. They also had pairs of fins that connected to the bottom parts of the machines, which happened to have fans to propel the machines through the water. Which showed that the fins also seemed to help with the water resistance too.

"What are those?" Megumi asked.

"They look like… sea scooters." Isabella responded, remembering seeing those designs back in Brio's HQ when it came to underwater travel. "Basically they are supposed to assist us in moving underwater. Even helping us move faster while here."

"Ah. Demo mitame wa totemo kūrudesu. (They look so cool though.)" Megumi said.

"Concordata. (Agreed.)" Isabella said. "Shall we leave them alone? Or shall we put them to use?"

Megumi was pensive at that thought. Could they be willing to put them to use, and take them? Or are they already owned by someone from this time? Which meant that they could probably be stealing those machines. On the other hand, those things could be very useful for what they could be planning to do.

"I say, we do the latter." Megumi decided to say.

"Bene. They might make our journey through this place easier." Isabella then said. As they were now both holding onto the machines.

Which, once they turned on, they were now using them to propel themselves through the water, showing that they were pretty fast. Not as fast as their Karts, but faster than their swimming strokes even with their flippers on. Not that they were not using their flippers, still, as they put the machines to use.

However, they saw some boxes that were nearby, which did end up showing the downside of those machines, being that they couldn't spin to break those boxes as long as they still hold those machines. Which would force them to let go of the machines to spin the boxes apart, much to their annoyance since it is bound to be tedious to do that everytime a box is nearby.

Before Isabella would let go of the machine's handles though, she ended up noticing that there was a button on one of the handles. "Hmm… Cosa fa questo? (What does this do?)" She asked herself as she pressed the button.

Which suddenly launched a torpedo out of the machine, and ended up blasting away a nearby Coral that was underwater. Which quickly had both Bandicoots realizing that the machine launches out torpedoes out of the front of it. Which was a surprise to be sure, but a pleasant surprise that neither of them were going to waste.

So after Megumi was able to find her own button, the Bandicoots were soon blasting away the boxes, and even the corals that hid some of them, as they continued onwards through the path underwater. They even shot some sharks with those Torpedoes when they attempted to eat the Nitro Squad members.

There was even a mine that blocked their path, but they easily blew it up with their torpedoes as they were now coming to another glass tube.

Which looked big enough in diameter to fit each of them, and the machine if they enter it single file.

Little did they know though, they were being followed. And by a curious spirit at that, as she was swimming behind them, studying them, wondering who and what those Bandicoots are.

While they both were in single file as they entered the tube, and then the sphere with the slowly spinning circular walls with the electrified sections. Which they avoided despite the limited space inside the spheres due to the machines that they held onto. Until they were now going through the tube that led downwards, deeper down the underwater path.

Where they were once again seeing some Eels that tried to eat them both. Too bad for them though, that they were able to use the torpedoes against them as they continued onwards, blasting away another mine, and the boxes to give them room to continue through the path.

"I love these things! I really hope that the Taimupōtaru (Time Portals) can take these things back with us." Megumi said.

"Likewise. These things are useful, and fun to play with once we come back underwater. And probably with the others that could come with us too." Isabella said, smiling.

All while they continued onwards, blasting all of the boxes that were in their path. Along with the other corals that tried to hide the boxes as well, since they both knew that the Coral could be too hard for them to break with their normal spin. Which could force them to use the Mojo to enhance their strength. But the machines they were using were just as efficient in breaking the corals for the box.

Little did the Bandicoots know though, they were being watched. Not by a foe, but by a curious figure from a sub that was tailing them, wondering what or who those creatures are.

It was a male Bandicoot. Who happened to have midnight blue hair on his head that was short. And he wore a Victorian era Professor's outfit, with a button up coat that trailed down to his knees, which was open, showing his yellow vest that was over his long-sleeved button up white shirt that had its sleeves rolled up. And he wore khaki pants as well.

And he was in an egg shaped steam punk sub with round windows on the sides, and a glass cockpit window on the front of the sub, where the cockpit is, that he was riding in as he was checking out the ocean floor, minding his own business when he ended up seeing the Bandicoot girls, as they were swimming underwater. Much to his surprise.

"Who are those ladies? And why are they swimming here?" He asked himself, in a British accent.

All while they were breaking the Boxes, knowing that they'll gain the box gem in doing so, as they were able to suddenly see that a Crystal was just before another wider glass tube. Just what they were looking for as they quickly grabbed the Crystal before continuing to blast the boxes in view of the British Bandicoot.

All while little did they all know, the one that was following them also saw the sub as well as the male Bandicoot inside it, causing her to go behind one of the sea rocks as she studied him while still in the light.

She was a Mermaid Bandicoot with long Cyan hair that trailed down to her mid back. While also modestly covering her chest that happened to be DD-Cup in size as she also had a cyan mermaid's tail.

And she was following the Nitro Squad members when she also saw the Bandicoot in the sub, noticing how cute he looked.

All while the Nitro Squad members were now at the end of the path underwater, as they both got the last of the boxes, before getting the grey Gem. Before a globe appeared in front of them. Which they jumped into with the machines in their hands as they were now returning to the Time Twister.

And it was just before the British Bandicoot tried to get closer to them, wanting to greet them and introduce himself to them. But it was too late. Much to his dismay.

"Oh great. And I was just about to introduce myself. Ah well, I hope to see them again next time." He said, before deciding to steer his sub away from the path to continue on his merry way.

Not knowing that he was being followed by the Cyan haired mermaid Bandicoot, as she was smiling at how cute he looked. As she hoped to be with him if they are to meet each other. But she decided to go back to the city in the background, being Atlantis, after some minutes of following him.

"Ah. I hope to meet you someday, whoever you are." The mermaid said as she swam to the city.

*Meanwhile*

After leaping through the globe Portal next, Coco, Nina, and Yaya ended up going to ancient China.

Where once they were there, they were looking at their surroundings, as they were now standing on the Great Wall of China as it was near complete in its construction. Much to their awe at the sight.

Even Aku Aku was in awe at seeing the wall of China through his spirit, admiring how the humans were able to build something this massive in probably a few dozen years. Regardless of the difficulties in doing so.

"Whoa. I never thought that I'd be in China again." Yaya said, surprised to be on the Great wall of China. "And look, were at the point in time that the Great Wall is nearing completion!"

"Yeah. I noticed." Coco said, not expecting that they would end up on the wall of China either.

As did Nina. Who was nevertheless, finding the wall to look grand. While she also was admiring the land of ancient China that was around the wall, as well. She felt that one section of the wall, would be a nice romantic atmosphere for her, and Coco. But she knew that there are better times for them to look romantically at the sunset, in the future.

All while they all did admire the sights of being on the Great Wall, particularly as it was surrounded by bonsai trees that also grew on the mountain that the Wall was on. Along with the bamboo scaffolds that held some barrels that held some material for the wall inside. Plus, judging by the watch towers on the wall, they had to be in the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall of China.

But they knew that they need to continue looking onwards for the Crystals. So they were prepared for their trek on the wall.

"This is going to be a long journey." Coco said in dismay, aware of how long their run on the wall was going to be. As they were now jogging on the wall, seeing how huge and long the wall was.

Which was impressive that the Chinese were able to build this back in the days of the Chinese dynasties, along with the years of the Mongol Horde vs China. (And by extension, the rest of the world that the Mongols tried to invade.) Which was the reason why the wall was made, to help protect the mainland from risk of invasion by the Mongols, back when they were still a powerful horde that threatened to conquer most of the world. So they were still impressed that the wall they were treading on, was quite massive in size as they were jogging.

Though it was still quite massive to where they were bound to be jogging for days at this rate.

"Ah geez, I already miss Polar. He would've been fast enough to help us with traversing this dang wall faster." Yaya said, bored.

Coco wanted to reprimand Yaya for being impatient, but she knew that she had a point. This was going to be a long jog throughout the wall of China. And it was going to be a boring Trek that they would be glad to leave with the Crystal and Gem once they are able to retrieve them. Which had her hoping that Polar will return to the gang once she comes in contact with him.

In fact, she hopes that Aku Aku could help with that once they're back on the Time Twister, and once Aku Aku is able to locate Polar's location to teleport him to them.

As they jogged though, they were suddenly seeing a quartet of men wearing straw hats, and Chinese robes and sandals were carrying a crate. Of which, held some sort of Animal that was inside. Which the trio could tell was a box that held an animal inside, since it was shaking like something inside was trying to break out of it.

And judging by the growls, roaring, and the screeches, it sounded like a feline was held inside the box.

Obviously against its consent too, as the quartet was trying to keep the thing inside. "Quiet down you loud stupid animal!" One of them said, barking orders for the feline in the crate to quiet down.

And considering that they were familiar minions of Cortex's, the trio quickly realized that they can't be good folks that was carrying the box with the animal inside.

Which was why they intervened. "Hey you bullies, leave the animal in that box alone!" Coco said as they were all ready for a fight.

One of the minions held up his palm in a threatening manner, gesturing for them to stop. "This doesn't concern you, commoners! This is between us, and this rare animal!"

The trio didn't budge though, as they merely glared at them, particularly Nina, considering her fondness for animals. "Oh no. We won't stand aside if you're being cruel to that kitty!" Nina said.

"Yeah, what she said! Now put that box down, or put up your dukes!" Yaya then said, as the group was now charging against them when they refused to do that.

While Aku Aku made sure to protect them from any incoming blows that the minions could do to them as they fight them.

Which they were gaining the upper hand in, since they all learned enough Kung Fu from Yaya, throughout their time together on the Wumpa Islands. As coco put her kicks to use, with her kicking one of them in the midsection, while Yaya also kicked one of them in the head.

Nina on the other hand, put her nanotech hands to good use, as she morphed them into gauntlets, before using the southern fist style punches on the other two minions, as she beat them both in their solar-plexus, before uppercutting them both in quick succession.

They tried to fight back, as they were drawing their bo staffs against the trio. But it wasn't enough, as Coco countered one of their swings with her own kicks, while kicking one of them in the Gonads. Making the others (Even Yaya and Nina.) cringe at that sight, before resuming the fight.

With Nina parrying one of the staffs, before quickly punching the guy in the face to knock him out, right before catching another staff's jab at her face. Before she punched back at him in the stomach, before delivering a right hook at the minion's cheek. While Yaya also kicked another one of them upside the head. Before quickly finishing him off with a kick to his face.

Just as Coco also finished off the minion with another kick. Ending the fight there.

They were now briefly catching their breath, before going to the crate that the minions were carrying, possibly to deliver to a Noble in China. Where hopefully, he/she intended to keep the feline in the crate as a pet.

"Now, what is in that crate?" Coco asked out loud as she was trying to look through the holes in the crate, hoping to see what the animal inside it, looked like. While hoping that it could be a friendly animal.

As she did that though, Yaya ended up noticing a latch on it. "Hey Coco! You mind if I release this thing?"

"I don't know, Yaya. Whatever is in there, might be a dangerous cat. Why else did they keep it in the crate?" Coco asked.

"But we can't leave it inside the box." Nina said, shifting her nanotech hands to normal. "Besides, maybe it's a friendly cat."

"Maybe. But we can't recklessly free it if it'll end up eating us." Coco then said. Still trying to scan her eyes inside the box to see what it looked like. Where all she saw was some stripes, with a dash of orange color. Which had her guessing what the feline is.

Only for Yaya to accidentally release the latch when she slipped on something, causing her to hold the latch to prevent herself from falling. Only to end up releasing the latch. And the animal in the crate.

"Oops!" Yaya said, after getting back on her feet.

"What just happened?" Coco asked.

Only to end up seeing that the crate was now opening up. As the animal was now getting out of the crate, showing what it was.

It was a southern China Tiger that was now out of the crate. And was now stretching its legs as well as its back after jumping out of the crate. And judging by the looks, it looked like a female southern China Tiger.

"Uh-oh." Nina said, nervous that the tiger might maul them like a bear's victim. As the tiger came close.

Which had the trio standing in place, hoping that they won't end up provoking the tiger into mauling them as she was looking at them, studying them like she was wondering what they are like, and if they happen to be friendly folks that saved her from the minions that tried to offer her to a noble.

"Hello, Ms. Tiger. We just saved you from those guys." Nina said, hoping that the tiger would understand her as she was coming closer to them.

"Yeah, we just fought them to help free you from the box." Yaya interjected.

While Coco was dreading that the tiger might not care that they were just freeing her from the crate. Which had her worried that her journey with Crash and Tawna would be coming to an end by the tiger's mauling, so soon after they just began it. And right when it was going to be her first proper adventure with her brother and Tawna, and through time at that, along with her friends' first full journey together with Crash, not counting the previous journey.

Coco was fortunately only focused on by the tiger, which didn't show signs of aggression towards them. Likely since it knows that they saved her from those minions. Which had Coco starting to feel more calm as the moments passed. To where she was starting to hold out her palm in a gesture of wanting to pet the tiger.

A gesture that was fortunately granted as the tiger accepted her petting. As it purred at Coco petting it, as she was soon feeling relief go through her when she started to realize that the Tiger wasn't getting aggressive as she started to trust them.

Pretty soon, both Yaya and Nina joined in as they were petting the tiger as well. Seeing that the Tiger wasn't getting aggressive too.

"Whew. I thought we were gonna be tiger food for a second there." Yaya said.

"You said it." Coco said. Feeling that they might've gotten themselves a companion on the wall, being the tiger. And Coco had to admit, she was happy to have one as she thought tigers were cool. Particularly the south China tigers.

Now that the tiger was friendly, they were now wondering what they could do with the tiger that seems to be tame enough to help them.

Until Yaya suddenly spotted an ancient Chinese cart with handrails to pull it along. Which, set off her idea of what they could do with the tiger.

"Say, what about that cart over there. We could catch a ride through the wall on that thing!" Yaya said.

That sounded like a good idea to Coco. After all, the tiger wasn't a full-grown animal, probably teenaged at least in tiger years, so all three of them might not be able to fit on her back. At least without slowing her down. Even if they looked like they were light looking.

"That's a good idea. Say, you wanna help us get through the path on the Wall?" Coco asked the tiger.

Whom was initially wondering if there'd be any harm in doing that, particularly where the unfinished sections of the walkway on the wall are concerned since they'd lead to a probable death by a high fall.

Other than that though, the tiger ended up nodding with a smile, accepting the offer.

Soon, after some strapping to the hand rails, and strapping in, the group were now holding on tight as they were now rolling through the path with the tiger pulling the cart at a fast speed.

Which was impressive and did make their trip on the Great Wall of China much faster.

Now they were being pulled through the path, while Coco had some reigns put on the tiger's torso to help them steer the Tiger through the path.

Which they soon saw, was littered with the familiar crates. Which, seeing that they might need to break all of them for the box gem, they decided to have the tiger break as it galloped through the path. While there were also some pits ahead, which initially had the trio freaking out.

But Coco then noticed that there was a lever that was on the cart, which she ended up pressing down just as the tiger was jumping over the pit. When she pressed it, the cart also suddenly jumped as well, Which helped them go over the pit along with the tiger. Much to their relief. While Coco noted how convenient the lever she pushed, was.

Now they were being pulled by the tiger as she was moving them around the unfinished sections of the Wall's walkway. As well as a wood wheelbarrow that held barrels inside, likely to pass along the material to the carpenters of the Wall.

Then they were now moving around the other people that was trying to lift up the stones, likely to continue building up the wall. All of which, looked like the minions to Cortex that were merely getting in the way of the cart. Which was why it was a good thing that they ended up moving around them all.

They soon jumped over another pit, while breaking a box that floated up in the air via the balloon, where they were now ascending up a slanted section of the wall. Where two barrels was suddenly rolling down onto them, thanks to a minion's fumbling causing them to roll down the path. Thankfully, there was enough room on the Wall's path for the tiger and the trio to move around them, since they might not be able to jump high enough over them while going up the slanted section of the wall.

Now, at the top of the slanted path, they were moving past another wheelbarrow, when they saw that a kite of a Chinese dragon was floating in front of them, close to the ground. Which forced them to jump right over it since they risked crashing into it. Which Yaya said, looked so cool to witness, even if she hopes to see an actual dragon someday.

Now they were running around a trap door being held up by another minion disguised as a carpenter, likely defending himself from their potential charge at him. Which they didn't do as they ignored him, and merely focused on the boxes that was in the doorway of one of the watchtowers.

Past that, they quickly jumped over each one of the other dragon kites that were also floating close to the ground, while jumping up to break another box on the balloon, before continuing onwards through the path that slanted down, where they avoided another minion trying to lift up a stone to add onto the Wall.

And past him, a section of the Wall was missing, and the way around it was blocked by another wheelbarrow that they threatened to crash right into with the tiger. Much to their horror. "AHH!" They yelled out, as Coco inadvertently slammed down her reigns, provoking the tiger into running faster.

Which gave it enough speed to extend its jumping distance over the gap of the wall. Much to their relief when they also jumped over the gap. Now they just jumped over more of the Chinese dragon kites, while breaking more of the Boxes.

"Close one!" Yaya said, with Coco and Nina in agreement.

"You said it." Coco said, before continuing to steer the cart with the tiger's help as they jumped over the dragon kites, and moved around the missing sections of the wall, making the cart lean with the motions as it briefly rolled on one wheel before getting back on two. Which each of them hoped, won't end up rolling the cart over if it'd wreck it.

Now they were continuing onwards, where they saw another dragon kite, only it was higher from the ground. Giving them no reason to jump if they could simply run under it. (Plus they could risk crashing into it since it was in the range of the tiger's jump.) So, they did such as they continued to break the boxes.

Now they were coming to another watchtower on the Wall, as they were now bouncing onto it when the tiger jumped there with the assistance of the trap door that the minion was holding up. Which allowed them to jump onto the watchtower. Where they would find that there were boxes on it that they broke before landing back onto the Wall's walkway.

Which was past a Bo staff wielding minion that was soon chasing after them. "Stop! In name of Cortex, all of you under arrest!" The minion spoke in a Chinese accent.

They ignored him as they continued onwards, not willing to obey a minion of Cortex's as they were continuing onwards, jumping over another dragon kite, and carting past another carpenter, where they were now headed for the Crystal.

"I mean it! All of you under arrest! Not even ugly bucktooth one get off the hook!" The minion said, referring to Nina as he chased them, trying to prevent them from grabbing the Crystal.

"Ugly?" Nina said in shock at what she just heard. Especially when she guessed that the minion referred to herself.

Which had her face turning red in anger at what she was just called by the minion. Leaving her livid at the description, much to Coco and Yaya's horror when they noticed. Before she soon stood and turned around.

Before she then used her robotic hand's grapple feature to shoot out her hand as it made a fist. Which collided with the minion's face as she punched him with her metallic hand. Leaving him splayed out on the walk way, now unconscious from the shot. Much to Nina's satisfaction, and the nearby carpenter's terror.

"DON'T EVER CALL ME UGLY!" Nina proclaimed to the now unconscious minion. Much to both Yaya and Coco's intimidation. Having remembered Papu Papu's visit towards one of their homes, at least two days before their current journey, when one of the arrogant natives of Papu Papu's village, being disobedient of him when he tried to challenge the Bandicoots for the island's section's ownership. When he insulted Nina similarly, which caused her to lash out and clobber the native in revenge. Leaving even Papu Papu unnerved at the beatdown. Which would be before punishing the native with more chores once he heals.

Other than that though, he remained cordial with the Bandicoot gang, and even befriended Nina regardless of one of his people getting clobbered.

Nevertheless, the group knew not to call her ugly as they each made a mental note to never call her that, regardless of circumstances.

Now though, they each kept on going as they grabbed the Crystal without trouble after crashing through four boxes making a wall. Before continuing onwards past the unfinished section of the Wall's walkway.

Now they were going up another slant after passing around the dragon kites, the pits, and the wheelbarrows, where another Bo wielding minion was trying to stop them, only to get kicked by Yaya as they passed by him, showing that her kicks are still devastating, and preventing another chase after them.

Now they were passing another wheelbarrow, and another carpenter, while knocking out another Bo wielder with Nina's robotic fist to prevent another chase. Only for them to end up seeing that there was another unfinished section of the Great Wall that was forcing them to jump again. Along with the trap door being held up by another minion, that threatened to bounce them upwards to another watchtower, which had Bo wielding minions on it. Much to their shock and horror since they didn't think they could take them all on.

Thankfully though, Coco was able to have the tiger bouncing right over the trapdoor minion by having the tiger run faster right before jumping, where they were now in the doorway in the watchtower. Where they were now inside, breaking the boxes, and avoiding a battle that was bound to go wrong for the trio.

Now they were continuing onwards, now feeling that they must be in the home stretch as they were coming up to a section of the wall where there was another wall that happened to be connected to the wall they were riding in a cart on, and a stone section that held up a Noble's house.

Which, little did they know, was where the noble was headed, whom happened to be a Bandicoot like Coco and her brother, along with the rest of the group. And, she happened to look like Coco herself, as she walked in her noble Chinese robes, along with her posse of guards, one of which, was another Bandicoot that happened to look like Isabella. Showing that they could be Coco and Isabella's ancestors from China.

And she was being escorted to her house, when she ended up noticing the cart that was rolling fast through the Wall's walkway as a tiger was pulling it. Something that was unusual to see, and had her starting to stare at it with a spyglass. Which caught the posse's interest, including the Bandicoot that looked like Isabella.

"Are you seeing this too, Isabella?" Coco's Chinese Ancestor said.

Isabella's ancestor nodded. Also looking through her own spyglass. Where she was suddenly seeing the group, most of all, Coco. "Huh? Look, this girl looks like you!" She said.

Which Coco's ancestor then noticed as she looked at Coco too. "She looks like me?!"

"Yes." Isabella's ancestor said. "What are they doing in the cart with that tiger, though?"

Coco's ancestor shrugged as she witnessed them now carting under the doorway of the wall, causing them to run to the other edge of the wall they were on, when they noticed the large gap that led to the other watchtower door that was closed. Much to their shock.

As was the trio themselves, as they were now yelling when they saw that the gap ahead of them was pretty long. "OH CRAAAAP!" Yaya yelled out.

As did Nina and Coco as they were holding each other.

Yet they were hopeful that the tiger could jump that gap, and make it to the other side of it to the other watchtower, otherwise it is the end for them and their journey through time, leaving the rest of the gang to complete the rest of the journey on their own.

Fortunately for them, the tiger was able to do such. As she was able to make a mighty leap in the air, just as Coco pushed down the lever again out of reflex. Now the cart was in the air with the tiger as each of them were in the air, hoping to land on the other side of the gap. Even praying for a miracle through this situation.

Fortunately, since the other side was lower than the side they jumped from, they were able to make it onto the other side of the walkway of the Wall, despite how messy it was since the cart lost a wheel from the landing.

Nevertheless, they made it. Much to their relief as they were celebrating with each other. Happy to be on the other side of the gap. "WOO-HOO!" They all yelled out. As Aku Aku looked on with a relieved smile through his spirit.

And not only that, but they suddenly saw that a Gem was there too. Appearing since they broke all of the boxes in their way. Which was also a plus in their eyes as they took it. While the globe portal appeared.

"We got the Gem too! We now have everything!" Yaya said, excitedly as they smiled.

They were now prepared to go back in the portal when they remembered the tiger that helped them through the path.

Whom, was looking on, looking sad as it likely knew that they were going to vanish once they enter that globe portal.

"What about her? We can't leave her here. What if there are other minions in this time, that would be ready to take her?" Nina said.

That was a good point, as both Yaya and Coco admitted. Which was why they were leaning towards letting the tiger follow them around like Polar did with Crash, and Tawna. What's the harm in doing that, after all?

They thought about it for a moment, when they decided that there could be no harm in letting the tiger come with them. "Let's have Pura come with us." Coco said, making her decision.

The other two were happy at the news as they jumped for joy, before they were then confused. "Pura?" They asked in unison.

"My name for the tiger. Pura." Coco said, as she walked to the tiger that she named, as she was smiling in delight. "Do you like it? Do you like your name, Pura?" Coco asked.

The tiger known as Pura didn't have any complaints. She even purred as she pressed her head against Coco as she purred. Hence the name, 'Pura' that Coco decided to call her.

"Hehe. Pura it is." Coco said, deciding on the name. As did Yaya and Nina, feeing that the name fits.

All while the ancestors of Coco and Isabella were now looking on in awe as they witnessed the mighty leap of the tiger. They didn't expect to see that happen.

And now they were looking on as they witnessed Coco and the group now jumping into the globe portal, along with the tiger, before they all vanished into thin air. Much to their surprise.

"Did you see that? They vanished." Coco's ancestor said.

"I know. Who were they? And why did one of them look like you." Isabella's ancestor asked.

Only to gain a shrug in return. "I have no idea. But I hope to see them sometime later." Coco's ancestor said, as the Noble has taken a liking to the trio that just vanished with the tiger.

And she hoped, that she can meet them again.

Chapter Text

*Meanwhile*

With Ami and Liz, they were jumping into the globe portal that they saw, led to some sort of swampy forest age. Which they were ready to face regardless of whatever dangers that they'll meet.

As they were on their way through the vacuum of time's tunnel though, they were suddenly seeing a quite familiar face. A face that they were not pleasantly surprsed in seeing.

Being Tiny Tiger himself, now sporting a gladiator's hat.

"Uka Uka and Cortex want Tiny to get Crystals, and bring them to Huge Coliseum in Rome. Bandicoots! Give Crystals to Tiny, or Bandicoots GETS CRUSHED!" He shouted threateningly on the last part before vanishing.

"Hell. No." Both Ami and Liz said deadpan with some punctuation. As neither Bandicoots were willing. Considering that Tiny is a minion of their enemies in Cortex, Uka Uka, and whoever the other Scientist is. And they'd rather not give those Crystals to their enemies. Particularly the one who tried to kill them alongside Koala Kong, back in their previous journey with Crash for the Crystals. Prior to Liz's rescue.

Instead, they will be ready to fight Tiny again should he dare to bring his fight to them in Rome, and they will win like they have done in their previous journey, as they were now reaching their destination.

When they ended up landing, they soon noticed that they were now in what looked like a swamp, close to what they saw, was large Ribcage bones that was on the ground, making arches with their gaps making the top parts. Not only that, but they saw that they were in an ankle-deep water puddle, while feeling like they were walking in tar, as they saw the swamp trees along with some reeds that was near them. All of which, looked like it was in a humongous cave, or is underground, since they couldn't see the sky above them. Much to Liz's slight dismay.

"Ah great. Thank goodness we removed our pants before this." Liz said, finding the water they were standing in, to probably be unclean. Especially with the tar that they could see their shoes slightly sinking into. Which could've stained their pants if they chose to keep them on.

Nevertheless, neither Bandicoot complained as they were now looking over to where they were ready to jump into a little gorge, which happened to be dry, which meant that there would be no mud in the gorge, only dirt. Which was fine, as the mud might've slowed them down, which would be bad if they were getting chased. Plus, neither of them was in the mood for a mud bath yet.

Also, it wasn't that far below them, just at least five feet or slightly over. Which they could totally drop downwards to without much injury, considering their species and their flexibility. Although they saw that the path led through some more of the mostly submerged

Once they jumped in, they were continuing forward when they stopped. "Wait a tic. Why do I get a feeling that… we're gonna be chased by something?" Liz asked nervously.

"Oh man, hopefully it ain't a boulder that is trying to flatten us." Ami said, also feeling nervous, learning about the boulder chasing that the other Bandicoots went through, before her rescue. And she hopes that another Goar titan isn't here to chase them, like last time.

"Hopefully not. Granted it sucks to get chased in general, but I'd rather get chased by you and the other girls, than by a boulder." Liz said. Remembering the tag game that they played on the Beach with Tawna, whether in their bikinis, or while naked. (While Crash, Coco, Yaya, and Nina isn't around. For the latter.)

As if on cue though, something else ended up bursting out of the cave that was behind them, and through the cage of large ribs that was behind them. Showing a Triceratops. And it was roaring before it was soon chasing after them, as the Bandicoot ladies were squealing in shock with wide eyes, before running away while yelling.

"Quickly! This way, Liz!" Ami said, running through the path ahead of them.

"Bleeding criminy!" Liz loudly said looking terrified as she ran with Ami. "I thought the herbivore dinos were friendly!"

"Apparently we thought wrong!" Ami said, not wanting to test her strength against the Triceratops as they ran

Which brought them through some more of the mostly submerged section of the path filled with water and muck or tar, which was ankle deep. Which made Liz extra thankful that they weren't wearing any pants for this, as it'd probably be a nightmare to get off their pants.

But for now, the water and the muck or tar is the least of their worries, as they have to get away from the Triceratops, as they were running through the path in the swamp, as they were running around a few patches of lava, while hopping over a log that was knocked over and in their path.

Which was no match for the triceratops, as it gored through the log, spitting it in half as it was continuing to chase the female Bandicoots through the path. That led to another drop down to a lower section of the path ahead of them, like they were being chased down a mountain.

They quickly were taking the jump, as they dropped down to another gorge that was low, just not low enough for them to feel the damage of their jump down as they rolled off the momentum, before noticing that the triceratops was standing on the edge, seemingly nervous about trying to jump lower to get to them.

Which they took as their opportunity to catch their breath, and take in their surroundings. Or rather the additional details of where they are in time.

"Are we in the bloody Prehistoric Period?" Liz asked, both nervous yet excited to be here.

"Looks like it. Why else were we chased around by that thing?" Ami said, noting the triceratops. "That's so cool though! I didn't think we'd be in the times of the dinosaurs ruling the Earth!" Ami then said, excited to see more dinosaurs that could be around as they make their way to a Crystal. Just as long as those dinosaurs don't eat them that is.

"I agree." Liz said, feeling keen on the same thing. Even if she hopes that they won't meet a T-Rex anywhere in the world they're in. Or any other dino that could eat them, or stomp them into paste.

Now they were going forward a bit through the path, though they looked up and behind them to see that the triceratops was still there, looking ticked. Much to Liz's delight.

"Ha! Perhaps you oughtn't have pursued us, shouldn't you? That ought to serve as a lesson, ya git!" Liz said cockily to the Triceratops, before sticking her tongue out while smacking her butt in a taunting gesture, making it jiggle. Which was echoed by Ami. Before they were continuing forward.

They were at least a couple feet forward when they heard a thud, which had them turn to see that the triceratops somehow gained the bravery to jump down the cliff to their level, likely being angry enough to do so, due to her taunt. Now it was back on the move as it chased them again, making them run away after squealing.

A pit of lava was in their way, but it wasn't a large one, as they were able to hop over it to the other side of the puddle filled land, though a lava bubble popped as Liz went over it, causing some of its drops to land on her butt, which burnt her butt as she squealed in pain as they kept going. While seeing a Pterodactyls that were flying upwards. They thought about using that for flying away to safety, but they had a feeling that it'd be a bad idea, if it was a mommy dino that could take them to her nest to feed them to her babies. Plus she might not be able to carry two of them to safety.

So, they ran by it, while running around another pit of lava that was on land. Avoiding being toasted to a crisp. Before jumping over another log, then jumping over another section of lava.

After some more running around the other Pterodactyls, they were soon jumping down another cliff to another gorge that wasn't far below them, this time they kept running forward until at least a couple steps, when they stopped when they saw that they were headed to another cliff, which they saw, led far below them to the lower section of the swamp.

Seeing that the triceratops was not chasing them, and seeing more of the cliff to their left, they were jogging there, hoping that the triceratops wasn't about to chase them again. While they were also setting off the TNT crates, as they looked at the flowing lava falls that was flowing from the nearby mountain that they were jogging around, while being at enough of a distance to not harm them.

It was a few miles across the cliff, where they were seeing a path in the swamp that had a skeleton of a dinosaur, when they were soon catching their breaths together, recovering from the chase that they went through with the Triceratops.

"Whew. That was a wild ride." Ami said, relieved that they got away from their chase. "Note to us. Save our taunts for when we know for sure that we're at a safe place." She then said, pointing to herself and Liz.

"Right. G-Got it." Liz said, making sure to keep that in mind, lest they find themselves fighting against a more savage, and dangerous enemy that could kill them, if they dare make him angry. While she was also nursing the burns on her butt from the lava droplets landing on her butt under her skirt.

Once their breaths were back, they were jogging their way through the swamp ahead of them, running through the ankle-deep water that was in the swamp, as they were jumping over a log, and avoiding the lava pits. While seeing some more dinosaur skeletons.

Which had them wondering what kind of dinosaurs they are, that died in this swampy muck in the woods. Could they be the T-Rexes that was killed here? And why did they die here? Did they starve due to being stuck in the muck, and tar?

Either way, it wasn't an important question, as they just kept going, avoiding more of the pits of lava, and jumping over more of the logs, and was soon wading through the grass. Which wasn't harmful, but it slowed them down.

Thankfully it wasn't a long patch of grass that they were walking through, plus their spinning that they also learned from Crash, Coco and Tawna chopped them down like they were lawnmowers, until they were at the other end. Where they were seeing a figure that was wading low in the water.

It looked unfriendly, as it tried to wade towards them. Which showed them that it was a minion of Cortex's judging by his face. Which was why when he tried to pounce on them from the muck of the water, they both spun him away, before continuing onwards. Feeling relieved that they caught him, otherwise he might've shoved them deeper into the muck, where they could've suffocated.

Such thoughts of which, put a shiver up their spines as they were jogging, before seeing that they were at a log, where they were also seeing a hologram.

A hologram of an outline of what looked like a red platform that had a Gem pattern.

They knew what that is, from their previous journey, and from being told of Crash's journey to rescuing Tawna. Which had them knowing that to make that red platform solidify, they have to get the red Gem. So they kept that in mind as they kept on going forward through the swamp.

Where they continued breaking boxes as they avoided another one of the wave lab assistants that tried to jump them from the muck. Whether they jumped over him, or was running around them. Which wasn't much trouble, as the puddle of water was ankle deep, and didn't slow them down one bit even as they were running through the path in the water.

So, it wasn't hard to avoid or even jump on him to clobber him into the muck before they kept going onwards, jumping over another pit of lava. With Liz ensuring that her butt won't get charred again.

"I wonder why those patches of lava aren't drying up the mucky water with their heat?" Liz wondered, feeling that the water should've evaporated on close contact with the heat of the lava.

"Beats me. Maybe there's something that is between the lava, and the water. Like rock?" Ami responded, seeing the edges of the pits that looked stone-like, which was ascended over the water.

It made sense to them, as they kept going, feeling that it isn't an important question.

They were soon meeting another wave lab assistant, but they jumped over him to avoid him as they were suddenly seeing a platform, which looked like a stone platform that was carried by a circular cage of teeth. While having a question mark on it inside of a square.

"Is this one of those platforms that is supposed to transport us to another area, where there are more boxes?" Liz asked.

"Looks like it." Ami said. "And who knows, we can still get the grey box Gem if we continue with box breaking."

"Hopefully. While it seems that we have to find a red Gem to get whatever the other reward is. So it seems we should come back here later." Liz said, looking forward to coming back, if so that they could see more dinosaurs that isn't the Pterodactyls or the Triceratops that chased them.

So they jumped on the platform, as it was soon levitating them out of the swamp, where after minutes of levitation, it was soon putting them near a mountain, where they were placed on some stone platforms near a dinosaur skeleton, which was mostly buried in the dirt of the mountain, as they were soon running on the stone, breaking the boxes while avoiding the lava. Among other hazards.

Like a bottomless drop downwards into where the lava was flowing down.

After some more box destruction, and after getting onto a floating stack of iron boxes to get to the boxes filled with some more Wumpa fruit, they were soon getting onto another stone platform. Where they were soon being levitated back to the swamps.

Where they were going to what they saw looked like a bunch of lava flowing into a large pond. With the lava flowing out of each of the cave mouths that made up the cave system that they were in, similar to the waterfalls that branch off into several directions of a river, before reuniting at a lake. Another such effect of the prehistoric ages that they were in, when Earth was just taking its baby steps into this life, while the dinosaurs were still around.

There was something about this sight of the lava rivers flowing into the pond that they were near, that looked pretty. And that is in spite of the fact that Lava by itself, isn't a pretty thing to look at, compared to a lovely forest, a flowing calming river, or even an island beach that they live on. Especially considering that if they fall in, it'd be hot enough to have them catch fire, and turn them to ashes. Here though, the lava in this area did look nice to look at, and if it was just water that was in its place, they could go for a dip inside.

But they kept their mind on the goal, as they continued onwards through the huge cave they were in.

Speaking of goal though, on the path they were going through was a Crystal that was floating on the ground. Which was a surprise to see, but they were pleasantly surprised, and delighted that they have the Crystal in their grasp. Now they just needed to grab the grey Gem next, and then the next Gem that they are feeling sure, is going to be where they could be sent to, if they gain the red Gem to solidify the platform that they passed by.

Once they got the Crystal, they quickly destroyed the boxes after making them solidify by setting off the iron ! Box. Before they kept going on the path where they saw the path winding to their right.

As they were soon walking away from the lava pond after getting to the other end of the path that turned east. Which was in the same direction that they came to the pond, only they were now headed into a different section of the mucky puddle filled swamp path that led through the swamp.

Little did they know, they were in the sights of a cave native of the swamp. But not the ordinary one. That one happened to be a Bandicoot with long curly blonde hair that trailed to her mid back, while wearing what looked like a two-piece saber-tooth tiger pelt that was skimpy yet modestly covered her body. And looked like a friend of theirs. Being Tawna.

She was on the tall stump of the tree, sitting on it as she sharpened her spear, and was already done with her meal, when she heard some footsteps coming her way, making her jump behind the stump to hide behind it as she hiddenly was looking at the figures that was coming her way, wondering who they were, if they were friendly and not from a tribe that could conquer their territory, and even could be fellow bandicoots. Only for her eyes to widen when she saw that those were indeed bandicoots that she was looking at from the stump. Which had her eyes widening in surprise at seeing them.

And in such unusual clothing she might add.

But there they are, jogging their way through the path like they just visited this cave, and was making their way through it with a purple glowing crystal in their hands.

"What in the world is that rock? And who are those Bandicoots?" The Cave lady bandicoot said to herself in her prehistoric language as she was watching them pass by, being stealthy enough for them not to notice her as she was sneakily looking on at them. Staying in the thick swamp of the trees as she was seeing them jog. Before seeing them jumping down into the gorge that wasn't far below them.

She was able to jump down lower yet kept herself stealthily following them, which was fortunate that she did, when another Triceratops suddenly appeared behind a cage of bones, and was chasing after the Bandicoots after they were squealing. Thus, setting off a pursuit.

Where she followed Liz and Ami, and the Triceratops as the latter was chasing the former two, as they ran their way through the muck and tar, not being slowed down by them due to how shallow they were. As well as due to it not being a sticky kind of tar that was being walked on.

The only thing that slowed the Bandicoots down was the grass that they were briefly in, before jumping out of them when they noticed how slow they were going. Other than that, they kept ahead of the Triceratops. Avoiding the patches of grass, and the lava pits.

"I didn't think that a triceratops would chase us a second time!" Ami said, remembering the first time, as she was running away, alongside Liz.

"Maybe I shouldn't have taunted it!" She added, remembering her doing the aforementioned gesture, which ended up bringing the Triceratops back into the fray again. "Or maybe this is another one?!"

"I guess!" Ami said, though the Triceratops looked like the same one as the previous one. Either way, she hoped that they won't meet some more of them if they won't be the friendly ones that could protect them.

For now, they avoided the patch of grasses that was on the path, while jumping over the lava pits, and the smaller logs that the Pterodactyls were on. Wishing that they could tame them into flying their way-

"Wait a second." Ami said, remembering the abilities that they were taught, particularly associated with the tattoos that they were given by Aku Aku. "Liz! I got an idea! Let's use the tattoos to see if we can also tame these guys into helping us fly to safety!"

Liz ended up getting surprised, as her eyes widened. "Ah! Thanks for the reminder!"

They were now running for the next Pterodactyl as they were jumping over the lava pit. Before seeing another Pterodactyl near another one. Which Ami was quick to jump onto, as it was screeching, ready to fly away with her on its back before focusing to see if her tattoos' power would work on taming the dinosaur into helping her and Liz.

Much to her delight, and excitement. It was working as her tattoos glowed as the Pterodactyl was in midair, before it was soon flapping its wings as it was flying forward where Liz was going. Where soon, it was scooping her up in its talons before it was soon flying ahead.

And it was flying pretty fast enough to outrun the Triceratops, much to its surprise, then its chagrin as it was roaring at them in anger, daring them to come back to it. A dare, neither Bandicoot was going to take, as they were flying away, letting the Triceratops break down each of the boxes for them.

All while the cave Bandicoot was looking on in utter shock at what she just witnessed. One of the Bandicoots was taming the Pterodactyl into doing her bidding, and was soon flying away from the Triceratops as they were soon sticking their tongues out at it, while it continually tried to run after them.

But it was a useless endeavor, as it soon lost them. And soon they were continuing forward through the swamp, until they know that they were sure that they lost the Triceratops. Though little did they know, they were still being followed by the cave Bandicoot since she was fast enough to keep up with the Pterodactyl.

That, and it wasn't too long of a path, until they were at the cliff that led to the lower path, but not before they saw a grey gem that was on some branches, where they were soon able to have the Pterodactyl fly to it, before grabbing it, before they were soon gliding back down to the mucky ground. Where they were soon dropping back down to the ground before the cliff.

"That was bloody awesome! I can't wait to try this power out on the other dinosaurs that we meet!" Liz said excitedly.

"As would I!" Ami said, smiling as she was also stoked to do more with the power, as they saw the Pterodactyl off, as it flew away.

With the grey Gem in their hands, along with the Crystal, they felt that their work was nearly done. They just needed to find a red Gem to get first, then they can return to this period to find the other Gem or another reward that they could find here, if it would help them in their battle against Cortex, Uka Uka, and the other scientist that used the Time Twister that they were putting to use.

For now, they were high fiving each other for a job well done. While little did they know, the cave Bandicoot lady was catching up, as she was hiding behind one of the trees in the swamp, looking on at them with curiosity as she was wondering if she could introduce herself, or subdue them and see if they are hostile.

Before she could put her plan into practice though, she heard some stomping, as did Ami and Liz, as they were soon feeling that the Triceratops was headed their way.

Which had them quickly jumping down the cliff to the lower level of the swamp. Where a globe appeared behind them. Much to their relief as they quickly jumped into it, before vanishing into thin air, in the cave Bandicoot lady's eyes.

Much to her shock as she was jumping down too, wondering where they were as she looked at the cave mouth where they used to be, along with the globe that appeared before them.

"Where did they go?" She asked herself. Wondering where the other Bandicoots went, not knowing that they just went back to their current time period where the Time Twister was.

"Tawna?" Another voice sounded as another Bandicoot was coming out of the cave that the globe was in front of. Or rather a pair of them were, as they were in her eyesight.

It was a cave bandicoot who happened to be Crash, along with his sister, Coco. Basically, prehistoric ancestors of Crash and Coco.

"Crash! Did you see that?!" Cavewoman Tawna asked.

He nodded. "What in the world was that? And who were those ladies?" Caveman Crash asked.

"Beats me. But they looked like our friends." Cavewoman Tawna said. "They also rode on a Pterodactyl! And it obeyed them."

That news shocked both Crash and Coco as their eyes bugged out in surprise. "How did they manage to do that?!" Cavegirl Coco asked, having tried to tame one in the past with Crash.

"Beats me, but they managed to do such a thing. And it seems that they are looking for those purple rocks, and grey diamonds." Cavewoman Tawna said.

"Those purple rocks and grey diamonds? That those other bad muck people from those magic globes were looking for?" Cavegirl Coco asked. Having met the wave lab assistants that her brother beat to protect her.

"Yes. And it seems that these Bandicoot ladies are from the same globes. But where do they come from?" Cavewoman Tawna asked.

None of the Bandicoots know. But all they knew, was that if the Bandicoots come back? Or if they meet more of those unusual Bandicoots, they hoped to befriend them, especially if they aren't friends with the same lab assistants that they fought against, that they learned looked for the Crystals and Gems.

And especially if they were to tame another dinosaur.