Operation: RECLAIM, Part 4

Chapter 4: Operation: RECLAIM

Rainbow Monkey Factory

"Ohhhh…" The three inspectors woke up from their unconsciousness, readjusting their hats and sunglasses as they tried to recall what happened. "What happened?…" See, like that.

"Ho ho, my dear gentlemen! How awful that must've been for you." They turned around, seeing Mr. Mogul and Simon with their usual grins.

"Ooooo now who might YOU be?" the short inspector asked.

"Ahem: I am Mr. Sebastian Mogul." The former president spoke professionally. "After taking an overly-extended business trip to, um, Africa, it seems I let my factory fall into the wrong hands."

"Mr. Mogul, HMMMmmmm?" the medium inspector inquired. "I say, gents, this old fellow was the corporation's FIRST owner!"

"Hoo-o-o-o-o yes." Mogul replied. "Oh, but how painful it is to see what conditions my factory has fallen to. I do hope you gents are okay."

"Nnnn, what WAS it that happened to us?" the tall man asked.

"When Ms. Sanban attempted to demonstrate the machine's function, it blew a fuse, and you all were electrocuted. You endured some slight short-term memory loss, but it wasn't too serious. Ms. Sanban, however, being the activator, ho-ho! She was sent to the infirmary."

"Hmmmnnn… well, it's clear by now Ms. Sanban ISN'T the type to be running such a major industry…" the tall inspector decided. "If anything, the company was much nicer around its original roots. …Perhaps if Mr. MOGUL were to return to his office-"

"I WILL!" the businessman frantically shook the inspector's hand. "You shan't be disappointed, Mr. Gruffelman! I can assure you, by tomorrow, this factory will look GOOD AS new! By which I mean good as old! Ho ho!"

Mr. Gruffelman pulled away. "Hmmm, yes… we'll postpone the inspection 'til tomorrow. I expect great things from you, Siiir…" And with that, the three inspectors showed their selves out.

The two businessmen waved 'bye', still grinning. "Well, that was most MAGNIFICENT, Sir! To think Ms. Sanban would be that easy to dispose of!"

"I know, Simon! And silence!" Bonk. "Soon, it will be time for Specter to move in! Ahh, but first we must test the machine's other functions. Hoo-hoo, and Specter has just the right Rainbow Monkey we could use!" He folded and rubbed his hands evilly.

Beatles Household

After her exciting ride from Bob the Builder, Kirie entered her house with her head still down in depression. "Hi, Sis!" her brother called perkily from the couch. "Are ya back, already??"

The older girl ignored him and walked slowly up the stairs. "…Sis?" Joey frowned.

Kirie slammed her door shut and plopped onto her bed. Her room was pitch-dark as she stared up at the ceiling. Even though it was still broad daylight… she wanted to sleep. But she couldn't.

She remembers when she was younger… she and her mother spent so much time together. Kuki was the one who learned sign language, and first began teaching it to Kirie when she was 3, so she could speak to people better. She was able to get a good grasp of it pretty quickly. At the time, Kuki thought her daughter was… smart.

She doesn't know where those good times had gone. Kuki used to do everything with her. She allowed Kirie onto her back as Kuki pretended to be a pony. They went to the park and played in the sandbox, working together to make a Rainbow Monkey sandcastle. Then they went to the swings, and Kuki would always push her higher and higher. Then Kirie would leap off and try to glide with her sleeve-hands. And whenever they drove somewhere, Kirie would stick her head out the car window like a dog, and Kuki would laugh and pull her back in.

But as Kirie got older… everything began changing. Kuki got her promotion, and Kirie started seeing her less and less. Kuki lost the vibrance she used to have. She started to show much less interest in Kirie. When Kirie graduated from CND Training, she excitedly wanted to tell her mother… but she wouldn't listen. When Kirie made a great project for school, she wanted to show her mother… but she was too busy. When Kirie won the butt-busting contest, she wanted to show her mom the trophy… but she didn't care.

She's rarely spoken, er, signed to her mother much at all. She was always so busy. But despite this… Kirie always thought her mom still had her love and care deep down. She still thought Kuki missed the good times, too. But after hearing what she said… it all became clear. Kirie's mom was gone. All there was was just a cold, heartless businesswoman. No love or interest in anything… except her business. The president of all Rainbow Monkey products. But such a job was the only profession… that reQUIRED love and care. That's what Rainbow Monkeys were about. Maybe that's why all the machines malfunctioned, maybe that's why the factory was in ruin. Kuki was an irresponsible president. How could one make so many rainbows… when their heart has no rainbows from which to work with. All that factory could possibly be… was gloom.

Kirie stayed in bed and didn't come out for the rest of the day. She didn't even notice her Rainbow Monkey was missing.

Rainbow Monkey Factory; that night

"Sincerest apologies for the inconvenience, Miss Leslie; so glad you understand." Mr. Mogul smirked evilly.

Leslie glared at the man as she sat tied to a chair in the closet, beside the unconscious Kuki Beatles as Mogul shut the door. He brushed his hands before walking out to join Simon. "Hoo-hoo, you handled that beautifully, Sir! Now we just wait for Specter and move to Phase 2!"

"Hoho-ho! Silence, Simon! Now that all the other employees have gone home, Specter is free to come in here!" The two perked when they heard a door creak open in the distance. "That must be them, now. COME, Simon!" They excitedly ran off.

The doors to the factory chamber opened as Specter floated in on his chair, joined by Mojo. (Play Specter's Theme from Ape Escape.)

"Hello, Mr. Mogul." Specter greeted.

Mogul and Simon looked confused. "That voice …You're Specter?"

"But you're just a monkey." Simon noted.

"Indeed I am." Specter smirked. "But I am far more advanced than the average simian. I was able to develop remarkable intelligence, with the powers of this Peak Point Helmet." He pointed to the helmet on his head.

"The Peak Point Helmet?" Simon questioned. "Wasn't that a device in the making by Adams Tech Co.?"

"Twenty years ago, it was. But the device was fully developed, thanks to one Kimberly Adams, the company president's daughter. In their quest to test the helmet on an ape, I was brought back into commission. And now, we're going to make more. Is the Remote Rainbow Monkey Machine operational?"

"Hoo-hoo, why yes it is!" Mogul perked. "But may I ask what you plan to do with such?"

Specter snapped his fingers, and his two monkey henchmen walked up. One held another helmet, similar to their own, and the other had Kirie's green and purple Rainbow Monkey. "You see, because of my actions," Specter explained, "further development of Peak Point Helmets has ceased. I was only able to recover these less-formidable copies. But using your Remote Monkey Machine's duplication function, I will be able to make more, and build a new army of apes. By which, I mean, these very Rainbow Monkeys."

"Hmm, yes, yes." Simon nodded. "And, how would that benefit for us?"

"Silence, Simon!" Bonk.

"Yessir."

"Ahh, I couldn't simply leave you gentlemen out of the deal." Specter assured. "After we create our intelligent army of dolls, there will be no need for human workers. We can have the perfect empire both of us desire. You have Rainbow Monkeys, I have apes. We will send our brainwashed, living Rainbow Monkeys out to attack and enslave children of the world. And, after we test the Heart Bringer's second function, we'll bring them here."

"Ahhhh… your evil mind never ceases to intrigue me, Mr. Specter." Mogul sighed. "Perhaps we should test the second function, right now."

"Agreed. But first, place this Peak Point Helmet into the duplicator." The monkeys handed the men the helmet. "We'll take care of the rest."

"We'll count on you, Mr. Specter, ho-ho!" With that, the businessmen left, and Specter's group left to the laboratory.

Specter placed Kirie's Rainbow Monkey into the machine's chamber as Mojo began to program it. "If our device works… I will be rid of a vast majority of the human population." Specter smirked still. "And once we're done here… Adams Tech will be our next objective. Hm hm ho ha ha." (End song.)

Inside the cereal room, Mojo Jojo walked up to the crates of remaining Chemical X and studied the potions. He gathered a few in his arms and walked away.

The Underworld; Underworld Prison

A quiet night inside the dark, gloomy, dusty prison of demons. The warden sat at his desk, quietly filling out papers with a pointy bone pen. The warden was a tall bat demon with sharp teeth, horns, huge black bat wings, and a big black trenchcoat. The nametag at his desk read 'Magellan.' "Hmmm?" he looked up when an echoing knock was heard at the building's door. Magellan stood up and stepped slowly toward the door, his huge form making little quakes with every step.

Magellan creaked the metal doors open slowly, looking around for the visitor. He looked down, and finally spotted something: Zanifr Mimchi's body, tattered and leaking with purple blood. Magellan spotted a white, folded paper beside the body. He bent down and grabbed it in his huge hands, unfolding it. It showed a picture of a pirates' skull, with evil eyes, and a black beard. Magellan read the note that came with it, before folding the paper up and dragging Zanifr inside.

Beatles Household; the next day

It was 10 in the morning, and Kirie was still in bed. She had woken up hours ago, but she just didn't have the strength to get up. That was when Wally Beatles barged into the room with a concerned look. "Oi, Kirie, your mum didn't come home last night. Where do you think she is?"

She signed angrily, still facing the ceiling, Probably getting ANOTHER new promotion and deciding we don't matter.

Wally looked at her confused (and not because he didn't understand; which he could). "…Are you alright, Kirie? You've been locked in your room all day yesterday, soon as you came home. …Did something happen between you two?"

Mom said I was a dumb child, and she said I didn't have friends, and she was being real mean, all because I made a few mistakes!

"Ehhh, she was probably just upset. A lot of businesspeople get that way."

Well, that doesn't excuse her for being so mean!!

"Sweetie…" Wally sat on his daughter's bed and put a hand on her shoulder, "I've known yer mum longer than you have… so you can take it from me, she's a real crazy sheila when she's upset. But deep down, she's still the same little airhead she was as a kid. Kuki will pout over a little thing, but then she'll get over it. Trust me."

No… it wasn't like that. Kirie looked sadly. Mom cared about what those businesspeople thought… more than me. Her job is her only life now. She's just like all those other bigwigs.

"Siiiigh…" Wally wished his daughter wouldn't think that way. He knew Kuki better than anyone… she wouldn't really change. She was the sweetest girl anyone ever knew. He wanted to believe, deep down, she was still the same. And she would never say that about her daughter. Himself, maybe. But not her…

"Hey Dad, hey Dad!" Joey exclaimed as he ran and stopped beside Kirie's room. "There's a package for us!" He excitedly ran back down.

Kirie and Wally curiously walked downstairs to find a package at their doorstep. Joey pulled it inside as Wally proceeded to open it. It was an ordinary purple Rainbow Monkey. "Awwww. See, Kirie? Your mum probably stitched this up as an apology." Wally assured. "She probably sewed it last night at work and was too tired to come home." But that's when the stuffed toy shook its head and stood up frantically.

"Hu-hu HU-hu! Hu-hu hu-hu!" It waved its arms.

"Whoa!!" Wally jumped back. "It talks… sort of!"

"But what's it saying?" Joey asked.

I know, I know!! Kirie cheered. He's saying-

"Hold on!" Joey spoke up, running to get a notebook and pen. "You'll have to write it for me…"

Oh yeah. Kirie remembered Joey couldn't understand her, so she began to write. Anyway…

Rainbow Monkey Factory; two hours earlier

"Ho-ho-ho-ho! Is everything ready, Simon?" Mr. Mogul asked as the Rainbow Monkey watched from behind a machine.

"I've double-checked, we're all set for our plan! And the inspectors should be arriving right… oh, there they are!" he perked as the three gruff inspectors marched through the factory's doors.

"Nnnn we have returned." Mr. Gruffelman stated gruffly. "Are your preparations all done?"

"Ho-ho! Yes! As you will see, we have fixed up and retouched every machine in the factory, and have ensured safe production for our workers AND consumers!"

"Don't forGET, the Corporate Presidents are expecting a marvelous invention tomorrow!" the short inspector, Mr. Perkyman reminded.

"The Heads are very high up in political power, you know, second only to the World Government Heads." The medium inspector, Mr. Britishman followed. "'Twould be wise not to keep them waiting."

"Our scientists have already prepared a WONDERFUL invention, I'm sure you will like." Mogul smirked. "Behold!" He threw an arm behind, to a set of garage doors along the wall.

They watched as the doors slowly opened, and there stood squadrons of Rainbow Monkeys wearing mechanical helmets with red lights on them. The monkeys stepped out in perfect rows, marching like soldiers in the army. "With our lovely invention, the Heart Bringer, we've brought SWARMS of Rainbow Monkey dolls TO LIFE! Now, children will be able to interact with their favorite toys, instead of just… well, pretending they're alive."

"Ooooo it IIIIS a marvelous invention!" Perkyman exclaimed.

"Nnnn yes… but it seems a tad controversial." Gruffelman observed. "Are living toys really… safe for kids?"

"Hmmm, but perhaps not." Britishman contraired. "If you recall, Doflamingo Incorporated makes the same brand of living toys. And they seem to interact with people pretty well. Are you, perhaps, sharing an alliance?"

"Ho-ho-ho, not quite!" Mogul perked. "It may SEEM like the same brand, but you'll find my brand has a slight… difference."

"Mmmmm?" they cocked brows.

Simon whipped out a remote and pressed a button. The helmet lights flashed red as the stuffed toys ran about and began to tackle the workers and tie them up. "What is going on?!" Dan yelled as he and Stan backed into a corner. "This wasn't supposed to go… AAAHH!" They were soon overcome.

"MISTER Mogul, what is the MEANING of this?!" Perkyman exclaimed.

"Ho-ho-ho-ho! I have no interest in children's safety, Inspectors For Children's Safety! You may not have seen it, but MY business resides in making little kiddies miserable! Now that I'm back in business, I'm SEIZING the opportunity! I've got a lovely sponsor, you see, and he will help me to bring ORDER to the children of this planet!"

"You're a MONSTER!" Britishman accused. "I am writing you up for endangering- H-Hey!" He was about to write on his clipboard, until a swarm of monkey dolls overpowered the inspectors.

"The only thing YOU'LL be needing to write is your WILL! Ho-ho!" Mogul laughed as the men were dragged away.

"Ho ho, we DID it, Sire!" Simon laughed. "Perhaps we should have the monkeys-"

"Silence, Simon!" he bonked him and took the remote. "We must continue with Specter's plan! We must ship them to the houses!" He pushed a remote, and the monkeys immediately began to grab some packages.

The apes all helped their selves into the packages as other monkeys closed them and had them loaded onto trucks. The purple, unbrainwashed Rainbow Monkey gave a serious look before hurrying to one of the packages. He offered to take the place of the previous monkey, who shrugged and allowed him to do so, closing the purple doll's package. The brainwashed monkey had the package addressed to the Beatles house and loaded it on the truck.

Beatles House, present time

"Whoa… how did you understand that?" Wally asked his daughter.

Mom taught me how! Kirie beamed. She taught me all types!

"But did you hear that?!" Joey panicked. "Somethin's goin' on at Mom's factory!"

Come oooon, it's probably not THAT bad! Kirie smiled assuringly.

"Ahhhhhh!" They heard screams from across the street, and looked across to many other houses to see Rainbow Monkeys terrorizing kids in the windows.

"Her mother's optimism, I see." Wally noted.

"Heeeeelp!" the Exposition Guy ran by their house and said, "Mr. Mogul came back and he's taken over the factory! All of the workers are in real trouble!"

"Oh no!!" Wally exclaimed. "He must've escaped same time as those other villains did! ...Ehhh. But why're you telling us?"

"Are you guys the Canadian police?"

"N…Noooo…" Wally was totally baffled.

"Oh… which way is Canada?"

They all pointed straight up. "Thanks!" And with that, the man squatted down, and jumped straight high into the sky.

"….So where were we?" Wally asked, not going to question that.

We have to go to the factory and stop Mr. Mogul!! Kirie signed frantically.

"Right!" Wally declared. "Come on, kids, in the car!"

"Let's go, Mr. Rainbow Monkey!" Joey said happily as he grabbed the living doll. They hopped into Wally's truck ('cause he much prefers trucks) as he drove downtown at high speed.

Outside Rainbows Factory

Wally parked just outside the factory's gates, and received a ticket from a pursuing cop for reckless driving. "You have a good day, Sir." The man said.

"You, too." Wally nodded. With that, the cop got in his car and drove off. "Siiigh, well, Kirie, the rest's up to you. I'd come in with you, but… I promised myself I'd never step in this place."

It's okay, Dad! Kirie smiled as she stepped out the car. You can COUNT on me!

"Hold on!" Joey exclaimed, jumping out with the Rainbow Monkey. "I wanna save Mom, too!"

She wrote down, Joeeeyy! This is a mission for a BIG operative!

"So?! Michelle gets to go with ANTHONY on missions! Besides, haven't you seen my blocks?"

"It's true, Kirie." Wally assured. "Li'l Joey can build a whole BUILDING out o' blocks! I mean, YOU played with him, haven't you?"

Oh yeah… But Kirie only knew from having to play with Joey in place of her mother. But she had to admit, his blocks were impressive.

"Alright, kids… good luck. And bring your mother home safely…" With that, Wally drove off.

The kids hopped across the gate and calmly approached the factory's doors. "You think Mom is okay?" Joey asked.

Well, I hope so… but I'm STILL pretty mad at her! She frowned grumpily.

"Oh well, Kirie. I just can't wait to see the factory!" Joey bounced excitedly. "Let's go!" (Play "Specter's Factory" from Ape Escape.)

Stage 2: Rainbows Factory

Mission: Save Kuki Beatles and reclaim the factory!

Kirie and Joey bypassed the lobby and charged straight into the factory. There, they found several Rainbow Monkeys in Peak Point Helmets running amuck, with some of them wielding weapons. Kirie whipped out her Japanese fans and made a fierce pose as a few monkeys already ran for them. Kirie swiftly twirled and kicked and smacked the stuffed toys, sending sharp flowers from her fans to cut the helmets off. The monkeys recovered and were still acting wild without needing the helmets, so Kirie was forced to slice the dolls up. It dealt her great pain on the inside, having to hurt such precious creatures, but she had no choice.

A squad of Rainbow Monkeys were gathering to attack Joey, but the 5-year-old began to build a towering block wall using letter blocks from his sleeves. Despite being made of individual parts, when Joey pushed the rectangular wall down, the monkey dolls were crushed flat. Joey gathered his blocks back as he and Kirie hurried to the Stitchomatic 3000, where more Rainbow Monkeys were hurriedly sewn to be brought to life. Joey tossed blocks at some of the patrolling monkey guards while Kirie ran into the individual control slots on the machine. Kirie took out the monkey doll in each station and shut the machine down.

With this room secure, the duo took notice of the laboratory. They hurried into the room to find several Ninja Monkeys manning the Heart Bringer, and Stan and Dan tied in the machine's chamber. "Nooo! No, please!" Stan pleaded.

"You vere supposed to be huggable! NOT HURTABLE!!" Dan exclaimed.

Kirie and Joey quickly began to take the monkeys out before they could do anything. Some of the ninjas started to leap around the room and toss shurikens, but Kirie swiftly dodged and tossed her sharp fans at them to slice them. Joey also used blocks to defend from the shurikens, and when the shurikens stuck to the blocks, Joey tossed the blocks at the monkeys to have the weapons slice them. Afterwards, Kirie proceeded to cut Stan and Dan free with her flowers.

"Hooo, thank you." Dan sighed in relief.

What's going on? Kirie signed.

"Vhat'd she say?" Stan asked.

"Mm-mm." Joey shrugged. "So what's going on?" Kirie looked disbelieved.

"We designed this Heart Bringer to give Rainbow Monkeys sweet, happy souls." Dan began.

"But Mr. Mogul came back, and he reprogrammed it to give zem EVIL souls!"

"Now the Rainbow Monkeys go wild, so they use those helmets to control them."

"But what were YOU two doing in there?" Joey asked.

"We don't know how, but they also reprogrammed the Heart Bringer to steal PEOPLES' souls, TOO!" Stan exclaimed.

"They're capturing workers and moving their souls into the bodies of Rainbow Monkeys!"

You mean EVERYBODY'S turning into RAINBOW Monkeys?! Kirie signed wildly. She and Joey looked very excited.

"YAAAAAY!/YAAAAAY!" They both cheered.

"Vhat??" the adults yelled.

Um, I mean… we better stop them! Kirie signed.

"You two have to STOP them!" Dan yelled.

Duuuh! With that, Kirie hurried behind the machine and proceeded to slice up the wires.

"Yay! Now they can't make anymore bad Rainbow Monkeys!" Joey beamed.

"Our invention…" :( Stan and Dan began to weep.

Ahhh, don't be BABIES. Let's go, Joey!

"Wait! Take this key before you go." Stan handed Kirie a key. "It'll take you to the hallway."

Kirie and Joey left the room and hurried to the door on the other side of the factory room. They unlocked the door and entered the hallway that would lead to the cereal room. Along the way, there was a Super Sumo Rainbow Monkey guarding the hall. The giant monkey saw them and prepared to charge, so Joey quickly built a block wall. However, the monkey managed to break through and knock the kids back. Kirie ran up the right wall and tossed her fans at it, but the huge doll blocked with his big stubby arm. Kirie landed behind the creature as it turned around, still grinning evilly.

However, it didn't notice Joey Beatles forging a rectangle cannon out of Legos, and when the sumo turned around confused, Joey shot it with a giant block from the cannon, knocking the huge toy away. Kirie grinned in gratitude as Joey stuffed the cannon away. They found the elevator along the hall's left wall and tried to take it, but it seemed to be disabled at the moment. They decided to continue to the cereal room, where harmful ingredients were being put into the cereal now.

A bunch of the surrounding monkeys were wielding machineguns (let's hope they weren't from the factory), so Joey quickly formed a block wall when they began firing. Joey removed a few blocks, leaving square openings, which Kirie used to toss her fans through and knock some of the monkeys out. With that, she quickly burst through the wall and ran to take out the other monkeys. Afterwards, they hurried to a stairway that led to the main control station of this room. At the top of the stairs, an orangutan Rainbow Monkey was throwing barrels down, forcing Kirie to jump on her way up. Joey took the hit from one of the barrels and was knocked back down.

Kirie managed to make it up and take out the Rainbow-rangutan before taking out the monkeys in the small control station. She ripped off their helmets, and the monkeys revealed to have workers' souls, shaking their heads from the dizziness and thanking Kirie. The girl studied the controls and was confused as to how to shut the machine off... but something suddenly burst through the ceiling and started zipping around aimlessly, leaving a trail of light. "HUHUHU HA! HUHUHU HA! HUHUHU HA! HUHUHU HA!" The Noid zipped around faster than the eye could follow, and in his wake, he destroyed the entire cereal machine. "HUHUHU HA! HUHUHU HA!" The Noid shot through the wall and was gone from the factory again.

Kirie shrugged, figuring that worked, before hurrying down to join her brother. They were about to take the stairway that led to the second floor, but they found that The Noid destroyed a chunk of the stairs. Instead, Joey formed a tower of blocks that would make stairs at the top, fixing the path and allowing them to make it up. This next floor had a series of Peak Point Helmets going across a treadmill over a chasm of electricity, the treadmill was protected in a glass wall. There was no way across, but they noticed a red switch high up on a wall on their right.

Joey simply formed a staircase using his blocks and walked up to press the switch. A row of floating hooks on propellers lowered down, forming a path across the chasm. Joey whipped out his Legos and created a small whip out of them. He used this whip to latch the hooks and swing his way across. On the other side, he pressed a switch that activated a row of fans that was down in the chasm. Kirie took a few steps back, then ran off, flapping her sleeved arms and gliding across. The wind kept her light form afloat as she safely made it over to Joey.

This next room had a long treadmill along its left side, behind a glass wall, but an opening was right at the start. On the right side beside them, there was a huge ray gun, which had a label, 'Company shrink ray, because you can't have a factory without shrink rays.' They saw that there was a tiny passage within the left wall of the treadmill, leading all the way up to the next door. Kirie and Joey nodded at each other as Kirie stood on the small pad the ray pointed to, and Joey activated the device to shrink his sister to 2 inches tall.

Joey gently carried Kirie to where the passage away began, and the mini mute girl started to make her way through. However, she reached a slight dead end at an area where a square platform lifted up from below, then went back down, but it only stopped at level with her, and the path was still too high. Joey watched this, and had no choice but to get on the treadmill, which moved further down the room into a dark pit. Joey hurriedly formed a high-enough block-stair to run up and slip a block into the passage's opening, onto the mini platform. Joey jumped off his foothold as the blocks moved along the treadmill, eventually into the pit. The block gave Kirie an extra boost as she stood on and was lifted to the path's next floor.

This pattern repeated as Joey had to form more quick staircases and run up to slip blocks in the openings for Kirie to stand on, and but she was able to Wall Jump in areas where the walls were too close. He eventually had to add more blocks for her to stand, and his own stairways got longer as Kirie got higher. Finally, Kirie made it at the top, and a pad was there to restore her normal size (apparently factory workers designed that path to be used). She pressed another switch to make a set of stairs stick out from the treadmill's end, for Joey to hop his way up.

The next door led them onto an outside balcony, where the duo had a lovely view of the city. Brainwashed Rainbow Monkeys were floating around in little pods with cannons, which they used to shoot at the kids. Joey formed Block Barriers to defend from the shots as Kirie jumped out and tossed her fans, knocking the monkeys out. They hurried up some stairs as two machinegun monkeys guarded the next stairs, rapidly firing their weapons. Kirie was able to gracefully twirl and dodge the shots as she made her way over, swiftly leaping, kicking the left monkey, and then the right, before they continued upward.

On this next floor, three more Sumo Monkeys crashed down and aimed to charge at them, but they dodged separate directions. Joey whipped out his Block Cannon to shoot the monkeys, but they seemed to be wearing protective padding, and were only being pushed around. Joey figured the only way to beat them was to shove them over the edge, so he ran around so that the balcony's ledge was behind the monkeys. He shot more blocks at them and sent them falling below. He high-fived Kirie before they hurried into the next door.

This next room was expansive, and had towering platforms with containers of toxic waste, which huge stirring devices were churning. "HUHUHU HA! HUHUHU HA! HUHUHU HA!" The Noid came flying in and started wreaking havoc around the chamber again. All of the waste containers came tumbling down and started to flood the room as Noid flew away. Kirie and Joey had to quickly hop their way up the resulted fallen platforms, and Joey had to use his Lego Whip to latch the fallen, but still spinning, churners. Kirie held onto his legs as they spun, the two releasing and flying onto safe footholds. (For the record, if Kirie's hanging onto Joey, then they can't swing and jump together.) Joey had to also form Block Stairs at some parts, but before the waste reached them, they were able to reach the highest part and enter the door.

This next room was packed with small gears, and over a dark chasm, the treadmill of Peak Point Helmets was still moving along (they honestly couldn't understand the structure of this factory). There was another shrink ray, so Kirie ran up to activate it, and got down with Joey as they shrunk down simultaneously. They got on the gears and carefully made their way up the spinning platforms. There were some moving hooks small enough to jump on, which carried them partway across the chasm, but they were dangerous jumps. They managed to make it, and the Growth Pad restored them to normal.

The made it outside in an enclosed area among the rooftops, where the smokestacks' smog covered the sky. There were Rainbow Monkeys around that wield flamethrowers, and the blasted fires straight upward. This caused explosions to erupt in the heavens and for little meteors to rain down. The kids quickly dodged the fires and took out the Rainbow Monkeys on the way. One of the monkeys waited at the top of some stairs and blasted flames down, but Kirie used a nearby trashcan to jump to the ledge and take the monkey out.

They entered the next door and entered room where Rainbow Monkeys were operating a machine, which seemed to be generating the Peak Point Helmets as they moved along the treadmill. The dolls took notice of them, and the Ninja Monkeys began to jump around and throw shurikens. Kirie smacked the weapons away with fans, but a Sumo Monkey charged over and pushed her away. Joey whipped out his Block Cannon and tried to shoot, but some Gun Monkeys started to shoot him, so he had to avoid. He quickly formed a Block Wall to block the monkey's shots, then proceeded to knock the sumo away with the Block Cannon.

With the sumo down, Kirie was able to grab the ninjas' shurikens and throw them back, slicing their heads off; much to Kirie's dismay. Afterward, she launched her sharp flowers from her fans to take out the Gun Monkeys. The Sumo Monkey helped itself up, fuming with anger as it charged to ram Joey. The 5-year-old smirked and aimed his Block Cannon, pushing the huge ape straight into the Peak Point Machine. The machine was destroyed, and the treadmill stopped as a result. THAT'LL stop those mean old MONKEYS! Kirie sign-exclaimed.

With that, they went up some stairs into the next door, and were led to the hallways of the company executives. They seemed empty, but as they passed through, Rainbow Monkeys jumped out from random doors and shot them. With a start, the kids were able to avoid and quickly fight the monkeys back. They decided to check inside random offices to see if their mom might be in them, but no luck. After battling through more Rainbow Monkeys, the duo made it to Miss Leslie's office. They skimmed around the office, and saw she had a Miranda Cosgrove poster on her wall. She must've been a fan.

"Huhuhu ha! Huhuhu ha!" Hearing this familiar cackle, they looked out the window and saw The Noid zipping around. "HUHUHU HA! HUHUHU HA!" he SMASHED through the glass, holding a bottle of Chemical X and shaking it wildly. "Nnnn-nuh!" he tossed the bottle at Joey, and it landed directly in his mouth top-first.

The Noid flew out, and Joey felt the incredible surge as the potion flowed into his throat. He dropped the bottle, as his body began to shake. With a burst of energy, Joey shot into the air and started flying around outside at high speed. He faced the frantic Noid with a glare, and both engaged in a light-fast midair clash. The light-red and green lights clashed and clashed, their bodies too fast to be seen. Finally, Joey shot high into the heavens and charged incredible momentum. He shot down like a meteor and RAMMED The Noid, the crazy creature unable to recover as he was forced against the ground, making a crater.

Joey hopped off as a GUN truck suddenly came. Soldiers hopped out, grabbed The Noid, and stuck him with a syringe. "Nyyyuuh-nnnnyuh." It fainted.

"HUP." The soldiers tossed him into their truck, then saluted to Joey. "HUP HUP HUP HUP HUP." They drove away.

Joey smiled in victory, still floating, but another GUN truck came from behind as a soldier shot a dart at him. "Ohhhh…" Joey was drained of his power, and fell to the ground.

"HUP! HUP HUP HUP HUP." They drove away.

Inside the factory, Kirie made it to the small room just before Kuki's office. A group of four Rainbow Monkeys fell from the ceiling. Three of them had hats and beards/'staches, but the center one, colored purple and green, caught her attention: it was Kirie's Rainbow Monkey from Christmas. Angered, the child ran around and kicked the mustached monkeys, knocking their helmets off as they fell unconscious. Finally, Kirie grabbed her present monkey, smashed its helmet against the wall, then threw the monkey toward the door. It got itself up to look at her surprised. Kirie ran to attack it again, but-

"WAIT, Kirie, it's me!" the doll exclaimed. (End song.)

Kirie froze in place immediately, her face stricken with confusion. That monkey spoke with a familiar, half-toneless voice. …Mom?

"Sigh, I'm not really sure myself. One minute, these two ninjas show up and knock me unconscious, the next I wake up, I'm in this… doll. Which, ironically, I've always dreamed of this since I was a child. …What're you doing here, anyway?"

Kirie turned as the purple Rainbow Monkey walked up. "Hunu, HUnu!" it said.

"…Huh. That thing turned out to be useful after all. It doesn't have anyone's soul, does it?"

Well, it has more soul than SOMEBODY I know! Kirie looked angered.

"What does THAT mean?"

You know, you don't DESERVE to be in a Rainbow Monkey's hugalicious body! They're sweet and LOVING and CARING and SHARING… and they're COLORFUL, unlike YOU! It's bad enough Mr. Mogul made Rainbow Monkeys evil, but putting someone like YOU inside one of 'em is the WORST!

"Oh…" Kuki realized, remembering yesterday. She released a regretful sigh, "Kirie, I really didn't mean what I said. I-"

Then why'd you say it?! Kirie was on the verge of tears. The way you were trying to get on those inspectors'… SIDES! I thought you were a KID at heart! You wouldn't've… cared about those businessmen's opinion over your DAUGHTER! I love Rainbow Monkeys, but…but I love YOU more. And I thought YOU felt the same, but…

"Kirie, I…I was just angry. Okay? I overreacted and I…I really didn't mean to hurt you." Kirie could hear the regret in her toneless voice. Was she actually… truthful? "It's true, I do love this job… but only because I want to support our family. I mean, Wally didn't do that well in Harvard… you know?"

Kirie nodded, disbelieved at that thought; she had to agree, her father isn't smart.

"But I guess I HAVE let it take control of my life. Even though I told myself I wouldn't care about these businessmen's approvals. To tell the truth, I miss the good times we used to have together, too. That's why I decided to let you come here. But those inspectors got in the way. …I'm really sorry, Kir."

Kirie's tears faded fast, and she made a wide smile. You know what YOU neeeed?

Kuki looked up in surprised. "You don't mean?..."

Kirie made a wide grin as she held her arms out. A FRIENDLY friend Rainbow Monkey FORGIVENESS huuuug! And she embraced her mother-monkey-doll in a tight, warming hug.

"Oh, Kirie…" Kuki smiled humorously. She may've been in a doll's body… but she could feel her heart warming from her daughter's hug.

"Ohhh… I say…" The two turned and saw three other Rainbow Monkeys, with familiar mustaches, recovering.

"And speaking of which…" Kuki said as the two looked disbelieved.

"Nnnn this has been a most unpleasant experience…" Mr. Gruffelman moaned.

"Hoo-hoooo! But my, MY, I feel ever-so colorful now!" Mr. Perkyman beamed.

Where are your bodies?? Kirie asked.

"Locked in that closet." Kuki pointed. "Leslie's tied in there, too." They walked over as Kirie opened the closet, seeing Leslie having fallen asleep on her chair, still tied. "Hey, Leslie, wake up."

"Snooore… hm, huhn?" the secretary woke up groggily.

"Don't worry, my daughter's here to rescue us." Kuki explained. "She's cleared up most of the guards outside. Right?" Kirie nodded.

"Ho, finally." With that, Leslie stood up as the ropes fell off.

"YOU COULDA DONE THAT ALL ALONG?!" they all screamed (Kirie signed).

"I felt a little lazy." She said. "So, what's going on?"

"Sigh, we'll explain on the way." Kuki answered. "Right now, take our bodies down to the laboratory. We can probably use the Heart Bringer to switch us back."

Well, I kinda shut it off, actually. Kirie mentioned.

"Ehh, we'll have Stan and Dan fix it, they're pretty fast."

"Hnnn!" Leslie grunted as she struggled to lift Kuki's and the inspectors' bodies, moving slowly as she trudged out.

"We'll leave Mr. Mogul to you." Kuki told her daughter. "Good luck, Kir." With that, the stuffed dolls hurried downstairs.

"Huff, huff, huff…" At this time, Joey finally made it back to the top floor, and was totally worn out. "I had to… huff… make it all the way back here… myself… pant…"

Come ooon, pant LATER, Joey! Kirie sign-yelled. We gotta go stop Mogul! The mute child hurried ahead, while Joey tiredly trudged behind.

The two siblings finally entered Kuki's office, finding it totally deserted. The two searched every corner of the office with confusion, but found no trace of the corrupted president. "Hey, Kirie, look!" Kirie turned to Joey as the excited child bounced before a portrait of the man himself. Joey pulled the picture off, revealing a secret passageway.

Kirie looked with wonder and curiosity as she approached it. She jumped in first, followed by her brother as they began to crawl through. They had to make a few turns in the dark, dank tunnel before they suddenly fell into a hole. EEEEEEEE! If Kirie's screams could be heard, they'd be as loud as her mother's. Uuf! Her silent screaming stopped when they collided with a floor in a larger, bright-gray room.

"Ho-ho! I see you kids have made it!" (Cue Specter's Theme.) The kids looked up surprised, seeing Mr. Mogul seated atop a machine. "Sooo, Kirie… you are lovely Miss Sanban's dear daughter. How excruciating it is to meet you. Hmmm… and judging by your brother, I'm assuming she got married to the STUPID one!"

Heeey! You can't call my daddy stupid! Only WE can call him stupid!

"Ho-ho-ho! I have no idea what you said. But THAT doesn't matter! Because you've officially signed your last sentence!"

What about this one?

"Er, that didn't count."

This one?

"Nnnn, STOP SIGNING!!" Mogul fumed. "Hoo-o-o-o-o-o. Huff… anyhow, it's time I put an end to your interfering. SAY HELLO TOOOO… THE HEEEAART GOLIATH!" They finally noticed that Mr. Mogul sat atop a huge, robotic Rainbow Monkey, with a chamber inside its chest similar to the Heart Bringer.

GAAAAASP! Kirie was shocked.

"Just how long do you think Stan and Dan have been in my business? They built this lovely automaton before I even joined the Brotherhood! This was the very FIRST Heart Bringer, constructed in this secret laboratory you stand in now. And I only just remembered it when I moved back into office. Ho-ho-ho-ho! You may have disabled the current Heart Bringer, but this Heart Goliath shall be the end of ALL children! It enhances the strength it gives to Rainbow Monkeys! And who better to test it out on than you."

Grrrrr! YOU WON'T GET AWAY WITH THIS, Mr. Mogul!

"Ho-ho-ho-ho! Speechless as usual. Let's end this enemyship once and for all! SIMON!"

The scrawny assistant popped up from behind the goliath. "Y-Yessir?"

"Put the plugs in, you fool, we have to start this baby up!"

"O-Oh! R-Right away, Sir!" With that, Simon frantically began to place a series of many plugs into the wall. Plugs connected from behind the Heart Goliath, as well as its sides. When all plugs were in, the robot began to shake to life, an evil smile on its face. A tube also connected on the robot's back as the first of many Rainbow Monkeys slid in and landed on the chamber's seat. The Heart Goliath brought the stuffed doll to life, and it looked fierce as it jumped down and faced the kids. Kirie and Joey whipped out their fans and blocks as the two readied for battle. (Play the "First Specter Battle" from Ape Escape 2!)

Boss fight: Heart Goliath

The giant automaton roared to life and sparked with electricity as it already sent more living Rainbow Monkeys at them. The goliath punched the ground and sent electric shockwaves, forcing the two to jump while they fought off the Rainbow Monkeys at the same time. Kirie tossed her sharp fans at the cockpit, but the robot's arm defended Mr. Mogul before swinging and sending an electric wave from its arm. Kirie kept the Rainbow Monkeys away while Joey began to create some block stairs that would lead to the cockpit. He succeeded, but as Kirie hurried up, the robot simply swung its arm across the block stairs and knocked them all down.

Geeeeehh! Kirie growled mentally. That robot's stronger than Rainbow Monkey Kong! What'll we do about it?

Joey looked around and took notice of the wires connecting the robot's sides and back. "Hey, Sis! Let's do something about those wires!"

"Oh no you DON'T!" Mogul defied, punching more shockwaves at the ground.

The two jumped the waves as Kirie took out more Rainbow Monkeys. "Follow my lead, Kir!" Joey perked as they ran to the right side of the room. Mogul watched as the 5-year-old began to build a huge block wall dividing both sides of the room. As he made his way to Mogul's right side, he noticed Joey's wall made a curve towards him, likely making a passage toward the wires.

"Nnnn not so FAST!" the goliath punched the wall and sent it toppling down, knocking the child over in the process. However, Kirie appeared to be missing. "Huh? Wheeeere did she go??"

He didn't noticed that, when the goliath knocked the wall down, Kirie was able to run behind the robot's LEFT side, and she began to slice the wires with her fan's flowers. "Gyuuuuh!" Mogul yelped when his robot began to malfunction. The machine roared in despair before toppling front-first to the ground. With that, Kirie quickly ran over and proceeded to lay kicks and fan-slaps against the businessman, since he was close enough to the ground. "Nnnn! Simon! Fix the machine and saaave MEEEE!"

"Uh, y-y-yessir!" the skinny assistant ran behind the goliath and hurriedly tried to fix the wires. He managed to do so, and the monkey robot sparked to life. It helped itself back on its feet with Kirie holding onto the cockpit, but the huge machine shook its head and sent her flying.

The goliath surged with more energy and began to jump, slamming the floor with its bottom and sending more shockwaves. It also sent more Rainbow Monkeys, this time ones with guns. Kirie gracefully twirled and jumped to avoid their shots while launching bladed flowers. The Heart Goliath launched forward slightly and punched her toward the back of the room, then kicked Joey before jumping back. The kids recovered and quickly dodged before more Rainbow Monkeys shot guns at them. Kirie launched flower petals to slice the dolls as Joey hurried over to begin setting up another block wall.

Mr. Mogul wasn't going to fall for this, so he had the Heart Goliath constantly punch down the wall before Joey was even halfway across the floor with it. Joey kept trying and trying to set up his wall, but the goliath kept bringing it down. However, Mr. Mogul was too busy breaking the wall, he didn't notice that Kirie had run behind the robot anyway, and proceeded to slice the wires up. "Gyaaah!" Mr. Mogul yelped when the robot began to power down. "Hnnnn not so fast! Power or not, this baby's STILL standing!"

Kirie ran to the front as she and Joey looked up, seeing the robot still standing tall. "Doesn't mean we can't go up THERE!" Joey exclaimed as the boy ran to the middle of the room, and from there, proceeded to form another huge stairway of blocks. Kirie ran up the narrow stairs, careful not to slip off, and successfully made it to Mogul's cockpit. She began to attack the businessman some more while Simon was frantically fixing the wires. When he succeeded, the Heart Goliath shook Kirie off and bashed the block-made stairs down.

The automaton roared with anger and power as it butt-slammed the ground and made more shockwaves. "Want to touch my wires? Well, TOO BAD! It's time I severed the bonds of battle!" And with that, the floor between the kids and the goliath suddenly slid open, creating a huge chasm of electricity across the floor. It was much too far for Kirie to glide, and if she could, Joey's wall would be set up too far to distract him. "Ho-ho-ho! Stumped now, aren't ya? And now for the BIG ones!" Mogul pressed a button and sent in some Sumo Monkeys from the back tube. The sumos were brought to life and sent at the kids.

Kirie leapt to kick one, but it easily bounced her back, then Joey ran to punch its leg, but he was never strong enough to begin with as it kicked him back. Joey remembered how they defeated them before and dropped his Legos out of his sleeves, beginning to form his Block Cannon. However, the Heart Goliath launched electric waves and forced Joey to jump back, and he struggled to charge a shot to push the sumos back.

Kirie tossed her fans toward the cockpit to distract Mogul, but he easily evaded and kept throwing shock waves at Joey. "Hoo-hoo-ho-ho! This time, I've finally stumped you kids! It must be quite a SHOCK that you couldn't find a way to beat me!"

"Hoo hoo hoooo! A-NOTHER good one, Sire!" Simon laughed.

"Silence, Simon! Once I defeat these kids, the rest of them will follow shortly after!" Unbeknownst to him, the purple Rainbow Monkey was climbing up the robot's back. "THEN I'll head to Rainbow Monkey Island, and REENACT my special plan to-" he whispered something that they didn't quite catch from that height, "-then I'll care to share with you a full helping of-" Angered, the Rainbow Monkey hopped up and grabbed onto Mogul's face. "Ho-ho-ho HEY! I've gone blind! Ahh! Simon! Do something!"

Now that the robot was out of commission at the moment, Joey leapt back, charged his cannon, and BLASTED the Sumo Monkeys with the big blocks and sent them into the electric chasm. With that, the 5-year-old was able to use his Legos to make a tightrope across the chasm. Kirie stood on her tippy-toes and carefully crossed the chasm, making it behind the robot and slicing up the wires again. The robot shut down again, but it was still on its feet. Kirie quickly made it across the Lego tightrope again as Joey started to from another staircase, starting from near the other side of the room and ending before the chasm.

Kirie dashed up the stairs as Mogul was still trying to throw the living Rainbow Monkey off. The stairs ended far from the cockpit, but they were at a much higher level than Mogul. Kirie leapt off the top and flapped her sleeves to glide to the businessman. "Grrr!" Mogul finally threw the stuffed toy off, but- "Daa-aah!" Kirie landed on the cockpit and dealt more forceful kicks across his face. Kirie ended the round by leaping up and kicking him backward, and the chubby man fell back on a big, red button.

"Warning: Self-destruct in 3 seconds."

"Huh?? Ho-ho-hoooo, whoooo puts a self-destruct button right behind the SEAT?! Those lousy scienTISTS!!" The Heart Goliath exploded to pieces, making the block-stairs topple as Kirie fell back to the center, and Mogul flew to the other side of the room. Joey walked over as Kirie shook her head and got back up, and Mogul was back on his feet as well, wielding a bazooka. "Ho-ho-ho! It's not over until the mute girl is silenced! …Eh, MORE silenced! If I cannot flatten you like a pancake, I'll blow you to smithereens AS WELL!"

The chubby man launched a series of fast missiles which Kirie was gracefully able to dodge, spinning left and right as she made her way to Mogul. Mogul failed to hit the swift girl as she was just inches away from him. The mute child leapt into the air and KICKED the man across the face, knocking the weapon away and knocking him to the floor. (End song.)

"You!" They turned around, seeing an angered Simon. "That's as far as you go, children! I may just look like a whiny assistant to you, but I've taken 3 years of taekwondo, so ya BETTER-" But at that instant, one of Joey's blocks came down and bashed his noggin. "Ohhhh…" He plopped down and fainted.

The 5-year-old smiled proudly while Kirie grinned. "Hm hm hm hm. Well, well… this was quite a surprise." They looked around in surprise at this echoing voice. (Play Specter's Theme.)

They watched as the floating white-furred monkey appeared a few feet away in midair. "Ho-ho-ho! Why, Specter…"

"I'm afraid I have bad news, Mr. Mogul." Specter told him as he and Mojo approached. "I'm afraid I have to bring our mutual alliance to a… close. You see, I've already acquired enough of the resources I need, and I can make plenty more on my own terms. Quite a shame… I honestly would've loved to keep our partnership going… but seeing how you fair against two simple children… fills me with doubt. And I could never have worked with a man who would take poor, harmless monkeys and have them skinned for fur coats and rugs, while their remains are used to make luscious colorful Rainbow Meat."

"You mean THAT'S what he was gonna do with 'em??" Joey exclaimed. "Yuuuuck!!"

"Yes… yuck indeed. Anyway… our partnership was fun while it lasted. But I have other matters to attend to. The business world never leaves one open, you know."

Wait a minute!! Kirie signed up. Just… who ARE you?

"Hm… someone you haven't seen the last of. That's for sure. I'm afraid I'll neglect to tell you much… but I will share this: Beware… of His Lesser Lordship."

Whuh??

"Hmm, good-byyye… ha… ha ha HA HA ha!" And before their eyes, the ape expanded a blue psychic bubble from his helmet, encasing himself and Mojo. Mojo disappeared first, then Specter. There was not a trace of them left behind. (End song.)

"Hmmm… whaddyou think that was about?" Joey asked.

Kirie only shrugged.

Specter's Hideout

"Well, this certainly was a fun place…" Specter smiled in remembrance. "But I'm afraid it's time to move out soon."

"It should not matter long, because with these bottles of Chemical X, we can create STRONGER soldiers, and then I; Mmmoooojo JOJO, will SHOW those fools what happens when they defy us, because we are POWERFUL, and they are WEAK, because THEY do not-"

"Yes, yes, rant, rant." Specter stopped. "We still have one more important order we have to make. I have yet to acquire some fresh Vita-Z Bananas. There's only one person I can rely on to get me such. Let's phone him in right-" He stopped himself when his collar began to short-circuit again. "Ooof!" he yelled in his nasally voice. "And get this modifier fixed, too!"

Back in the factory

"Well, I think the lot of us can agree, that was quite the experience." Mr. Britishman said. "Hwuite."

"So Mr. Mogul was responsible for those incidents all along!" Perkyman deduced. "Oh, we owe you big thanks, Ms. Sanban!"

"Well… don't thank me." Kuki smirked, back in her normal body. "It was thanks to Kirie and Joey, my kids." The two smiled proudly. "And we were pretty dumb to blame them."

"Hnn, yes… but there's still the matter of your inspection." Gruffelman spoke. "Seeing as you had to rely on a couple of snot-nosed kids to fix everything, perhaps you are not a very responsible president after all."

"You know, you can say what you want," Kuki began spitefully, "but my kids are incredible, and they're my biggest accomplishment, not this presidency. I'd choose them over this place anyday."

"Nnnn so I suppose you'll be stepping down then." Gruffelman deduced.

"…No." This made the men surprised. "I would step down, but after seeing what Mr. Mogul almost did, I couldn't let this factory fall into wrong hands. I may be an adult, but I'm still a Kid Next Door like Kirie, so it's my job to ensure this factory makes safe products for kids. And I won't take crud from lousy adults like you or those Corporate Presidents."

"Miss Sanban, that is quite enough." The gruff inspector said smugly. "Relinquish your position now or face dire consequences."

Kuki just gave a sly smile.

"Ooof-ooof-OHH!" In seconds, the men were sent flying out the door, bruised and tattered.

"That was… unfortunate…" Britishman moaned.

Dizzied, Perkyman followed, "That woman certainly hits hard… hoo-hoooooo…" they fainted.

"Brilliantly done, Miss…" Leslie smiled half-humorously.

"Thank you, Leslie." Kuki smiled. "Perhaps they will pass the message to the Heads."

"Ohhh, but how sad our Heart Goliath would return to HAUNT us!" Stan exclaimed.

"Ve built it a long time ago for Mr. Mogul, but feared its power!" Dan followed. "Ve shut it down as soon as Mogul vanished! Ve made a lesser model of the machine; without the giant robot, and even THAT backfired!"

"It's all better now, boys." Kuki assured.

Kirie smiled as the little, living Rainbow Monkey walked over with a smile. "Huuuu!" it hugged Kirie happily.

What're you gonna do with the machine, Mom?

"Hmmm… the machine is still far too dangerous. It's best to shut it down… later. …But that little guy would make a nice factory pet."

"Yaaaaay!" the monkey cheered.

So; Mom, now that it's over… you wanna hang out? Kirie signed hopefully.

"Hmmm… I'd love to, Kirie… but I still have some work to do. …For now, I'll drive you home, but I still have to clean things up. But I'll come home later… I promise."

Okay… Kirie frowned doubtfully.

"Hey, Kirie!" Joey perked as they began to walk off. "You think I can join the Kids Next DOOR now??"

Hmmm… I'll think about it.

Beatles Household; an hour later

Kirie was back at home, mindlessly playing with Joey's blocks in the hall. She heard the door open and slam downstairs, and was surprised at whose voice it was. "Now WHERE'S my favorite daughter?" Kirie looked up, surprised when Kuki came upstairs. "I got something for you, Kirie…" She smiled as she held out a green-and-purple-wrapped present.

Kirie took the box and quickly unwrapped it. She made a wide smile, seeing it was the Rainbow Monkey she got for Christmas. "Merry late Christmas, Kirie."

The mute child hugged the stuffed doll tighter than she's ever hugged one before. Oh, Mom… what's this one called, anyway?

"The Mother-Daughter Making Up Bonding Rainbow Monkey." Kuki replied simply.

Awwwwwww! She hugged it even tighter.

Downstairs, Joey was playing Rainbow Monkey Tea Party with the purple living Rainbow Monkey. "More tea for YOU, Misses Lovedale!"

"Awwww!" the monkey smiled and drank the invisible tea.

"Ehh… you aren't seriously PLAYING with that, are you?" Wally moaned. "Boys aren't supPOSED to have TEA parties!"

"Mu, MU MU, mu, mu MU MU, mu!" the toy yelled.

"What??"

"She said, 'You're just a big, mean, meaniehead!'"

"Oh, don't tell me you underSTAND it??"

"I do! Mom and Kirie taught me how to speak Rainbow Monkey!"

"NnnnAAAAAAwwww!" Wally cried in despair.

"Oh! I think I hear our guests at the door!" Joey perked as he walked behind a chair. "OHHH! HERE they aaaare!" He brought over two more Rainbow Monkeys, a dark-blue one with a tiny black mustache, and a light-blue with an orange mustache and glasses. "You almost MISSED it! Don't worry, I'll bring out the seconds!"

Joey set the stuffed dolls at the table and ran off as Mr. Mogul and Simon sat grumpily. "Hoo-o-o-o. Reduced to mere child's toys, Simon. I can't imagine anything worse."

"I'm baaaack!" Joey cheered as he brought his teapot, pouring more fake tea. "You guys are so cuuute! I can't wait to have parties with you EVERY daaay!" And the happy 5-year-old hugged the two lovingly.

"Awwww! This reminds me when I was a child," Simon smiled, "when I got my very first Yipperman Double-"

"Silence, Simon!"

"Y-Yessir."

Cleveland Pier

The coastside had become much calmer despite what happened yesterday. The worker of Goofy Goober's; nicknamed Mac, assisted Nickel Joe and his henchmen with loading crates onto their ship.

"Well-p, that's the last o' the Chocolate Mountain Supremes." Nickel Joe proclaimed. "Ya've done us a real good favor, Mac."

"Heh…heh…" the man panted tiredly.

"Now let's call Mama and tell 'er we're on our way back." Mac perked up at that statement, backing away in fear.

As he reached for his phone, Panini Drilovsky peeked out from behind one of the pier's poles, her green eyes furrowed. One of Joe's henchmen looked out to the intersecting beach, seeing the region in ruins. "Deeehh, what happened out there, Boss?"

"Who knows, probably just some knuckleheads." Joe assumed as he finished dialing the number. "Yo, Ma? It's me."

"There you are, Joe. I've been expecting a call for days. What are you doing out there?!"

"Relax, Ma, I'm on my way home! I've made all final preparations for your special day."

"Then hurry up and return here. The more you stay there, the more you'll draw attention to our-"

"HEY! YOU!!" Panini immediately ran up and YANKED the phone away. "So, YOU'RE the crazy lady who's been takin' all our candy!" she yelled directly into the phone. "Well, listen up: if Ay ever see yer boys around here again, Ah'll come down to where ya live and KNOCK YOUR TEETH OOOOUT!!"

Nickel Joe and his henchmen's eyes and mouths dropped, all color falling from their faces. Mac stood in place, feeling more afraid and frantic than ever. Panini slammed the phone back in Nickel Joe's hand and stomped off without another word. "SO ya've been warned!" …Except for those.

Somewhere in the sea

Candied Island: a legendary, sugar-filled paradise sought by candy-lovers everywhere. Towering mountains covered the island; they were enormous cakes with delicious frosting and candles on them, and the candles' smoke filled the sky with dark pink clouds. The night was peaceful on this island… except there was a party taking place within the mountains. The Big Mom Pirates were gathering to celebrate their captain's special day. (Play "We Will Rock You" by Queen.)

The south-east doors to the meeting room were kicked open, and in stepped the slim, sleek man in the tux, grinning and flipping his nickel. His two buff guards stood by his side as he stepped toward the table with his smooth expression.

Chief Negotiator of the Big Mom Pirates

NICKEL JOE

The south-west doors came open next. In stepped a group of your traditional Candy Pirates, and in their center, a very fat pirate with black hair and an open white shirt, letting his big hairy belly hang out as he slopped on a big lollipop.

Chief Candy Supplier of the Big Mom Pirates

FAT JACK

Next were the north-east doors. While one expected big, burly men surrounded by guards, instead, it was three babies with very cool expressions. A peach-skinned, football-headed baby in a yellow jacket, black shirt, yellow pants, and holding a teddybear. On his right, a brown-skinned 5-year-old with a black afro, blue T-shirt, dark-blue shorts, and sunglasses as he made "Rock-and-roll" fingers. And the last baby, a yellow-skinned girl with spiky hair, a pacifier in her mouth, wrapped in a blue blanket, and a fierce expression as she held a gun. There was also a weapon sash around her blanket.

Deadly Baby Trio of Big Mom Pirates

STEWIE GRIFFIN (scientist) – RALLO TUBBS (rapstar) – MAGGIE SIMPSON (assassin)

Finally, the north-west doors opened. In stepped a very familiar pirate with a yellow mustache and beard. However, he wore a huge, round hat with a red-pink feather, a very large, red coat covered with many lollipops, blackish-purple boots, and walked with a candycane.

Vice-Captain of the Big Mom Pirates

BLACK JOHN LICORICE

The six crew members sat at the round table on their respective sides. Once all were gathered, Rallo shut off the music from his boombox. (End song.)

"Ahhhh rap." Stewie smiled. "The music that put James Moses Johnson outta business."

"Friends… crewmates…" Nickel Joe spoke with a warming tone. "We are gathered here, on this day, for a very special occasion. Taday… is February 15th… our Mama's birthday. Bring in the cake, boys!"

A couple of Joe's men hauled in a huge, colorful birthday cake with many candles, and had it set on the table. "Our Mama should be in 'ere ANY moment. …Oh! There she comes now!"

The chamber quaked just then as they all looked anxiously to the northern-most doors, which were the biggest of all of them. Every few seconds, the chamber quaked, and they could hear its source drawing closer from the other side. They came slightly faster. From how they sounded, it was as though a dinosaur was stomping its way toward the room. No natural person could pack that much force in their stomps.

The quakes stopped as two pirates used all their strength to shove the doors open from the other side. The two were a long-legged pirate and some kind of humanoid lion. The minute the doors opened, an eerie wind blew and put out all the candles, making the room very dark. The stomps started again, and their massive source filled up the entire doorway. All they could see of the fat, gigantic woman was her enormous, grinning mouth, and a pair of ravenous red eyes that made the pirates shiver.

Captain of the Big Mom Pirates, a Pirate Emperor

CHARLOTTE "BIG MOM" LINLIN

Rallo's face was lit with amazement as he whistled. "You lookin' FIIINE, Mama!"

"Nnnn, happy birthday, Mama, aaaahhh." Fat Jack sighed.

"Maaaah." A stream of drool spilled from the woman's gigantic mouth, and it looked as though her drool burned like acid once it hit the ground. "I've been dying for this party for three months nooow." She licked her teeth with her massive, moist tongue. "Where's my caaaaake?"

"Heh, here ya go, Mama." Nickel Joe said, a hint of nervousness in his voice. "The tastiest birthday cake known ta man. And a gigantic, bubbly soda to wash it down." Another group of pirates brought in a gigantic soda bottle, about Mama's size. "We very much hope ya like it."

"Maaaamaaaaa." The woman reached and grabbed the whole cake in her huge, husky hand. She shoved it in her mouth and munched sloppily. "MAAAAAHH!!" The woman screeched and spat the sloppy remains of the cake in disgust, covering the pirates and the whole room. "This cake does not satisfy me. I am not satisfied! I CANNOT be satisfied! Knowing that brat is still out there."

"It was just one kid, Mama, ha ha." Joe chuckled nervously. "There's a jillion of 'em. What can ya do?"

"If one kid is able to slip away from me… ALL of those tasty candy-holders will. I want to EAT 'EM ALL. …I want to eat NOOOW-"

"Aaaa-AAAAAH!!" An unfortunate Candy Pirate was grabbed by Mama, and met his end inside of her mouth.

Big Mom licked the taste off her fingers before speaking again. "I must control the world's entire production of candy. I must have ALL the candy in the world. Candy enhances my blood-sugar levels and makes me strong. By controlling business owners with fear, I can have ALL the candy. But if they decide to rebel against me, I won't get any more. Whoever that child was that spoke out of term, MUST be PUNISHED."

"Well, I guess she's goin' the way of Mr. Burns, eh Mags?" Stewie glanced at his assassin ally.

"Mw-mw." Maggie still looked fierce as she sucked her binky and loaded her gun.

"Yo ho hoooo!" Black John laughed. "Ay wouldn't be rushin' into this too fast, Captain. Methinks I know where the young wench comes from: it be the Kids Next Door! Why, they be daring for a group o' snot-nosed munchkins. It was they who defeated Davy Jones!"

"Nnnnn?!" Big Mom's bloodshot eyes widened. "THEY defeated Davy Jones?! My closest rival?! His salt opposed my sugar to no end!"

"And correct me if Ah'm wrong, but I think it was they who showed ol' K. Rool the door, too." Joe grinned.

"They defeated two of the Four Pirate Emperors." Big Mom was intrigued. "Then they pose a threat to my empire. If I am going to possess the strength to defeat them… I must devour the most succulent sweet that's ever been sugared."

"But Mama." Nickel Joe grinned. "There was nothin' sweeter than that tasty cake. We got that recipe from one of the most successful bakers ever known. It came from the recipe book of Benedict Uno Jr.."

"Maaaa…" Drool fell from Mama's mouth and burned on the ground. "That cake was inferior. The only cake that truly satisfied my taste buds… was when I was a little girl. It was a cake… so succulent and enticing… I would never want to taste anything else. It was my grandmother's… Beth Linlin… of the Annoyingly Cute Triplets Who Lived Upon The Hill!!"

The crewmembers looked at each other, surprised. "But Mama…" Nickel Joe spoke. "That recipe's been gone since the 19th century. No one in this time could know it!"

"So, let's ask someone not from this time."

The pirates looked to the northwest door at this thick, Hispanic voice. A teenage, silhouetted boy stood in the doorway, a lollipop clutched in his fingers.

"Nnnnn! Who, Augustus??" Big Mom asked.

The boy's sunglasses sparkled. "His name is Rick Strowd."