Sorry for the delay everyone. This week has been full of family events that while not, crucial, kept me busy. Also, having so many of my loved manga sites being destroyed by greedy profit hounds depressed me as well. Sigh, sometimes, the law itself is injustice. I mean really, how is one going to read a series when the only way to find it is online in the first place idiots? Gar, I better stop now before I go nuts, so here is the chapter. Enjoy, because I assure you, this one has a bomb shell!
Chapter 162: The Malformation of Belief, Confronting Madness!
Last time in Tales of the Cosmic Wars, Ben and the others were trying to recoup from there brutal showdown with Kira Sephiroth and Genesis and the conclusion that shattered the entire world of Grand Pulse! When the hero's returned they were met by Grand Master Myers and the others, they found some unexpected news. And that was the revelation of the coming Enji Budokai, a galactic martial arts tournament being held to showcase the best of people, and also to see who the strongest warrior in the universe truly was!
With the chance to have ultimate showdowns with Ezan, Brad, Cloud, and many others, not to mention the chance for Ben to prove once and for all that he has the strength and skill to fulfill his destiny of being the one who will save the universe! And it looks like he is not the only one that's deciding it's time to prove ones point, because his friends, rivals, and enemies are all gearing up for their end games to!
After returning to Vandalgyon Kira had gained even more power and a new sword from Zannacross to insure Ben's demise was at hand, and to top it off being beaten by Ben seems to have driven the former Enji over the edge! But even this increase in instantly seems trivial compared to Brad's! Speaking of Brad, despite the Enji Knights thinking, or hoping that they have him contained and under control, but the "Big Daddy" of the underworld's true ambitions are far more reaching then any one has realizes!
While The Enji Masters think that they have Brad and Lacus under close surveillance, all they are really watching are a shape shifting wizard Shang Tsung, and a stunt double Meer Camble! Meanwhile the real Brad is showing by now he has no concerns for holding back for anyone as he wrecked havoc on the world of the Skedar, and confronted the Celestial Beast Grezar! It seemed Brad was out to fulfill his deal with the Dark Enji, and thanks to his control on Lacus being so tight that he can seemly make her bring out the full Blue Eyes White Dragon and command it at will he was able to subdue and defeat Grezar before Xemnas and the other Dark Enji warped it away to finalize their own plans! And even when a furious Jin Kisaragi and his division appeared to get revenge for Brad breaking their own deal, Brad showed he had no concern for murdering Lylat forces!
Yes, it's more than clear that if Brad has all ready past the point of no return, now he leaped over it but the question is, can Lacus be prevented from going over to that point with him! As Ben prepares himself for the Enji Budokai, and get ready to settle many scores and overcome many obstacles, he resolves himself to do what it takes to reach his goals , and little does he know a determined Doug, Ezan, and many others are preparing to do the same! So, it's now time for the start of the crossroads of confrontation to be unveiled, so with that it's time for this chapter to begin! Ready and go!"
Today's chapter begins with us seeing just how Ben is preparing for that confrontation, which leads us to Ben training hard in the mountains around Hallowed Bastion! A week has passed since Ben and the others have been aware of the Enji Budokai.
And when Ben realized that despite it suppose to be a friendly competition, so much was on the line for him, that he could not afford to waste any second of the two weeks! And so Ben spent nearly all the time he could get after where he left him last chapter preparing himself to come out of the Enji Budokai on top! Thus Ben has spent countless hours fighting off against virtual simulations of his comrades like Ezan, Cloud, Master Myers, and even Brad.
However today Ben decided to vary his training, and that is why he is now in the highest mountain top in Corneria, testing the extent of his power, and now the only one who came to watch him train, Hiryuumon and Moz, are quite impressed at Ben throwing out a Shinryukenha, and see that while not even at full power the energy beam is able to dived town sized lake that is in front of Ben, and divide it like the red sea! As Ben controls his energy beam to the sky and have it defuse harmlessly Hiryuumon is amazed as the water comes crashing down and says,"
Man boss, that's amazing! I think just from this week your all ready improved a lot Ben!"
Ben takes a deep breath as he says," Thanks Hiryuumon, but don't feel amazed just yet, that was just the test. I can make the waves go even higher!"
With that Ben unleashes an even larger Shinryukenha that sends all of the water in the lake flying like some giant threw it up with a giant frying pan!
Moz jumps back from some crashing water as he says,"Um, Ben I know your trying your best to train hard enough to win but how is unleashing your energy suppose to help, Kupo? "
Ben grins as he sees his Shinryukenha fly in to the sky again as he says,"It's not too complex Moz. I have to test pushing the limits of my energy, and pouring all of it out as hard as I can. It's the only way I'll be able to really triumph over the likes of Cloud, Ezan and Master Myers. And, if I want to make sure that I take down Brad hard, then I can't take any chances."
Hiryuumon gets happy as he says," Oh come on boss, I know Brad's been causing you grief again and again, but there is no way he can beat you now! It's been a long time since you two fought, and your powers have grown past four of that jerks! There is no way you will lose to Brad Ben! Huh?" Ben's digimon partner then sees Ben narrow his eyes and looks serious as he says,"
I know, that I have come a long way Hiryuumon, and I would like to think that after all the battles I have fought and the training I have done, that beating someone like Brad should be a cinch. But, as much as I would have liked to overlook it, I can't help but notice that all of this time, Brad's power has grown, even as he seems to do nothing but trash everyone and goof off. I can't take any chances guys; I won't allow myself to fail again! And that's why, I have to push myself to my limit!"
With that Ben's energy explodes before he then redirects the Shinryukenha back to the ground, before he fires off another, even larger Shinryukenha at the first one his two energy beams collide in to each other with such a impact that it creates a shockwave before Ben then tries to control all of the energy and as Moz and Hiryuumon then see Ben's serious face Hiryuumon then says,"Wow, I never seen the boss be so calm about pushing himself! I guess, beating Genesis, Sephiroth, and Kira changed him, and gave him a confidence boost. Huh? "
The digimon then sees Moz crossing his tiny arms as he says," I don't know Hiryuumon, I known Ben longer then you, and it's like he is pushing himself because he feels like he has to. I think, he is focused on Brad. Not just about fighting him, but how much Lacus has fallen in to his control.
I think, what bothers Ben the most, is that he does not know how what to do. And, nothing bothers Ben most, then not knowing how to solve a problem. And with big a problem as this, it must be quite stressful. Oh?"
Lucky for Moz, Ben's so focused on controlling his energy that he did not hear the moogle, and currently Ben is unleashing more power as he says,"After all of this time, guess it's time to prove that I really am worthy, to everyone. Damn it, if I could unleash the power I had that overwhelmed Kira from the start, Snow and all of those people would not have had to die!
Why, why even after gathering all of crystal shards, and learning so many skills, and training so hard, am I still not able to save people when they need it most? Why, can't I ever protect people properly? If I was stronger, if I was better, then things would not be so bad! If I was better, Lacus would be in so much trouble! I have to find a way, I have to find a, Guh!"
All of a sudden Ben feels his right leg and his spine twitch in pain before he falls to one knee and he says,"Damn it, I pushed too hard? Huh, oh no!"
Ben then realizes that distracting himself has caused him to lose control over the energy, as now the power of two Shinryukenha 's are blasting right at him! Ben looks annoyed as he says,"Great, and after all of this time, I still get distracted to easy!"
Hiryuumon gulps as he says," Hey boss, is this ok? Whoa!"
All of a sudden Ben gets barraged by his own attack, and the impact blasts Moz and Hiryuumon get blasted back all the way in to a tree several yards back! As Hiryuumon endures the pain of having being sent flying, and then having Moz collide in to him, he then sees the explosion and says,"Whoa, Ben's not even in Bankai and he unleashed that much power?"
Moz is at once worried at this as he says,"Ben! He is going a little overboard don't you think Hiryuumon?"
The digimon instantly gets on his feet and runs back to where Ben was as he says,"Er, maybe a little. But, I guess the boss just wants to be as strong as he can be. Well, as long as he does not deep fry himself hopefully it will be ok. Hey, Ben? Your, still there right? Oh?"
Ben's pals then see that misfire thankfully did not do their friend in, as they see Ben emerge from the smoke with a red aura, showing he used Kaio Ken to overcome the blast! Most of his cloths are blasted and torn from the attack and he just looks annoyed as he says," Well, that's a pain, another outfit ruined because I was careless. Ah!"
Ben then clutches his right arm as he looks pained before Hiryuumon then says,"
Hey Ben, maybe we should take a break? You have been training nearly day and night, and barley even slept or eaten! You being so tired can't be good for your health."
Ben sits down as he says,"Maybe so Hiryuumon, I do admit, my back has been killing me since the fights on Cocoon. Everyone's told me to rest for a day after such a barrage of intense battles. But, I can't afford to relax, not until the Enji Budokai is over at the very least. I may be a little tired, and maybe even feel a little sick but its fine, ill just sleep for a week or something afterwords. For now, ill just embrace the pain or something."
Hiryuumon chuckles nervously as he says," Er, no offense boss but that talk reminds me of the so called training Kira gave us!"
Ben chuckles and says," Don't worry Hiryuumon, I have no intention of becoming a masochist or something. It's just, taking it easy, is a luxury I don't have at the moment. If I want to be serious about this, I have to give it everything I have to prevail." Moz then floats around and says,"
But Ben, I know you want to win, but it won't be worth it if you push yourself so hard you break something right? Huh?"
Ben just looks at his hands, and his shirt, and nearly the rest of his cloths fall to dust from his blast before he clutches his hand and says,"I have to be able to endure Moz, that's all there is to it. I won't let anyone down again, and I won't be helpless as others die. I won't give up Moz, no matter what. So, time to resume. Hey Hiryuumon, care for a sparring match? Shadow clones can only do so much after all. "
Hiryuumon then shrugs and says," All right, I am tired of just sitting by anyway. If you want to go all out, then guess I better do the same! Hiryuumon warp Digivole to, Shinryudramon!"
As Ben's partner transforms to his Mega Level he then raises his sword and says," Ready when you are boss! Er, but, don't you want to put on another set of cloths or some armor since its going to be full power? Oh?"
He then sees Ben rip what remains of his chard shirt off as his energy flares up and he summons the Star Sword to his hand before he says,"
Nah, at this point my skin is tougher than most armor anyway so might as well not get anything else dirty. All right, ready when you are!"
Shinryudramon nods and says,"All right, as long as you're sure your head is not to hit hard! Let's go!"
Moz then sees Ben and Shinryudramon then go at each other before he sighs and says,"Ben, you want to win so badly that despite how you hide it I can see it in your eyes. Just remember, you're not the only one that wants to win badly. Oh?"
Moz then hears his own cell phone buzzing as he says,"Oh, a message? Oh my, that time is it?"
He then sees Ben and Shinryudramon clash swords with such force that it creates another shockwave that blows some trees down and would have sent Moz flying if not for a barrier he set up before the Moogle sighs and says,"Oh yah, this is going to be one rough time all right. I just hope when it passes everyone is still standing."With that Moz sees his friends resume their training, and as Ben sees Shinryudramon come at him with his Giga Drill Breaker attack and catch his pal's arms before throwing him up in the air he gets determined as he says,"If I get careless this time, I'll fail at something that I'll never have another chance at! No matter what, I have to be ready to resolve everything, once and for all!
With this Ben blocks but for now we leave them to see another member of squad 7 getting ready for the coming battle, and that is none other than Doug!
At the moment Doug is taking quite a different approach to preparing for the Enji Budokai, and that's by watching a funny movie! However, his laugh style training was interrupted when he was summoned to the Masters chambers and that's why now the scene is Doug and James riding the elevator to their destination with James looking over a data-pad and Doug just looking up before James notices Doug's lax face and sighs before he says,"I admit Doug, your behavior once more is confounding to me."
Doug chuckles and says," How so James? It's odd for a man to be at ease?"
James chuckles as he says," It is when the ultimate battle royal to deciding the strongest warriors in the cosmos is coming up rather soon. I guess I am just baffled that your training seems to be watching a marathon of those tasteless Arcadian Pie movies. "
Doug leans back and laughs as he says," Man James, you and Ben both need to broaden your sense of humor. That's not my preparations man, working out in the mourning is my preparations! Just because I get up before you do it does not mean it does not happen you know? "
James chuckles and says,"I suppose so. Still, I just find it odd that you're not taking the Enji Budokai seriously. From the glimpse of both Ben and Ezan that I seen of them the past week, they both seem keen on surpassing there limits and reaching even greater levels of power."
Doug shrugs and says," What, doing laps around the world in an hour is not a hardcore enough warm-up for you James? Hahah, seriously man, pushing yourself to the breaking point to dig out more power is pointless when the well is empty. It's all about the mind man, all about being focused on the end game."
James raises a eyebrow as he says," Is that so? Is that you admitting you reached your limit Doug? Never thought I would hear that form you."
Doug closes his eyes and responds back with a easy going,"Look man, not saying I am peaked, just saying that with one week left, doubt ill pull out any major progressions. It's not like I am like Ben, Brad, or Ezan, and can just pull a power up out of nowhere."
James folds his arms and says," Doug, are you conceding that you realize your chances of winning are slim? Then why enter at all and not just watch if from the sidelines? Oh?"
He sees Doug open his eyes with a deadly serious look and says," Because I don't believe in things till it happens man. I don't care if I am the odd man out; I am in it to win it! I may not have the top power, but knowing how to fight the winning way, you can bet I do James! Besides, winning or not, I am at least going to give it a real mans try. And among everything else, there are a few things I need to see once and for all."
James looks at Doug intently and says," Would this relate to the situation with Brad? Doug, tell me, just what do you think you're doing?"
Doug cracks his neck, just as the elevator doors start to open and he says,"Doing what I have to do to resolve theses annoying drama issues James and no offense, but that's my own business. Even if I can't fight to win, I plan to fight with everything I have to force everyone to take me seriously! Because I am sick of things going on how they are now and I, oh? Wait, this smell? Oh man, are you, kidding me?"
The duo hear a laugh, before a old but firm voice then says," Ah, it seems my student still has that passionate spirit, even if that fire seems to have been corrupted!"
Doug and James then see an old man wearing with a gray martial artist outfit and a long beard sitting cross legged on the Master's council table, and to Doug's shock it's none other than his former teacher Gouken!
Doug raises an eyebrow as he says," Old man, what are you doing here?"
Gouken laughs loudly as he in a flash is behind Doug and says,"Old man? Lost your respect have you Doug? Shameful! And I am here for you ingrate!"
Doug responds with,"Say what? Train me? I thought after learning the Mystic Gates skill I officially graduated from your class? What you hear just to, AH!"
With that Gouken in a flash gets Doug in a headlock and gives him a noggin before he says,"Who is the master Doug? You may have learned the Mystic Gate system but you only learned how to use it in a half assed manner! I should have flunked you but since you were so keen on going to help your friends I gave you a waver! However, I heard that this Enji Budokai is coming and therefore I can't allow you to walk around using my teachings in an incorrect manner! It makes me look bad after all! Besides, I heard you need to be reminded about respect."
Doug gets annoyed as he says,"What you talking about now old man? Huh?" He then sees that several of the Enji Masters are sitting on the council table, and while Master Myers is not present, Masters Yamamoto, Zoda, Eraqus, Gerard,
and the female Enji Master, ( Who has been a Master since the story has been going on, just not seen. Er, roll with it. ) the short young looking female with pink hair in a pony tail wearing a red and white kind of outfit, Master Genkai are all looking at Doug before Zoda closes his eyes and says," Contact Gouken we did, about your movements on Venom."
Doug moans as he says,"What? You guys are still up on that? Come on, Ben and James did the same stunt and no one is on their case!"
James sighs and says," Please don't think that you're on the same boat as us with this one Doug. Me and Ben only chased a lead, and did not drag the Enji name in the shadowy dealings on Venom. However, you did not bother to hide your true identity during the Dark Tekken Gauntlet. And of course there is the matter of you beating up several uninvolved people and that talk with Brad."
Doug gets irritated as he says," Damn it, none of you still get it? I just did what had to be done and that's just how it is! Sometimes things are in the gray area guys wither you admit it or not and, hey!"
Gouken gets Doug in another bear lock as he says,"You're the one who is dangerously confused Doug! It's not about the blur between light and darkness, its relishing on walking down that path! Master Myers told me everything about what you did on Venom, AND I saw the recording! AND you did not tell me that my brother Akuma was there! We need to have a long chat my silly pupil."
Doug then gets annoyed as he says,"God damn it, now you want to tell me how to do things? Just lay off man!"
With that Doug unleashes his strength to wriggle out of his masters dead lock and gets to the side as he says," So this is all about lecturing me to get in line eh? Enough all ready! Gouken, I do appreciate you coming all this way to show your concern for me but back off!
I know we have had a lot of turncoats in our history, but I am not going to join the list of those jumping on the darkness wagon! I just do what I have to do to get things done, and don't care what people think about getting the results, not even you guys!"
Gouken then gets serious as he says,"Doug, I know you like to do things your own way, but you have to remember your part of something bigger by now. This is not about you turning to the darkness like my idiot brother; it's about you not realizing the danger of disregarding what your comrade's think and going out on your own!
I thought by this point you would realize this, but you seem to forget that as an Enji Knight, you have to respect the opinion of your pears and don't make judgments about the situation on your own!"
Doug snickers and snaps back sharply with," Oh yah? Well what if everyone else is too blinded by delusions and what if's to get the job done huh? Look, I just see things how it is, and I am not going to let others ideals get in the way! So if you're done then I would like to leave."
Gouken strokes his beard and says,"No I am not done Doug. Like I said, I came here to complete your training. So if you would just calm down and listen to me, we can bring out your maximum combat ability! Come on, it will only take a few days and I am here to watch the Budokai anyway!"
Doug chuckles and says," Thanks but no thanks old man, I don't have the time for it."
James raises an eyebrow as he says,"Doug, what are you talking about? All you were doing is watching movies. "
Doug groans and says," Lay off all right! It's my business understand! I plan on doing things my own way, and nothing is going to change my mind now! Last thing I need is something getting my hopes up now."
Gouken gets annoyed and says," You call the final part of perfecting your powers as nonsense Doug? How dare you insult my teachings !I insure you that if you just allow me to do the final phase of your training, your powers will be enough to truly have a shot at winning the Enji Budokai! After all, I am only going to be a spectator, and possible guest judge, to not make the results predictable. What could be more important then realizing your ultimate potential Doug?"
Doug takes a deep breath, before he stares right at Gouken and says," Something tangible, something that I know will get somewhere! I know you're not lying to me Gouken, but there is something even more important than that!"
With that the former master and student glare at each other for a few seconds before Gouken sighs and says,"
That stubborn defiant look, no matter what that never faded from your eyes. But, I suppose I am no longer your master, so do as you will Doug. Just make sure you don't do it in a half assed manner."
Doug chuckles darkly as he says," Don't worry, whatever I do, I do with my all. That I can assure you. All right, thanks for the chat, but I have things to do, so good day."
With that Doug walks in to the elevator and quickly closes the door before James tries to reach him and says," Doug, stop this foolishness! "As the doors close James sighs and says,"Sorry for that Master Gouken, Doug's behavior has been, quite stubborn as of late."
Gouken sits back down and rubs his chin as he says," You don't have to apologize for my disrespectful former student son, that's what he better be thinking about being!"
Master Yamamoto sighs as he says,"Doug's behavior has gotten unruly ever since we defeated Weil, and he shows no signs of changing, or even feeling the need to be sorry. "
Eraqus nods and says,"I would hate to say it, but I fear if this keeps up we might have another Brad on our hands, and without a doubt I can safely say we can agree that's the last thing we need."
Gouken chuckles and says,"I know Doug's being a real pain Enji Masters, but I can assure you that you don't have to worry about him turning in to some selfish traitor like that other extreme idiot. Doug may be stubborn but he is no Akuma, I can promise you that. "
Genkai sighs as she says,"War changes a lot of people for the worse Gouken. I know you did your best to imprint your wisdom on your disciples but dimwits can let their passions get a hold of them to the point where they lose sight of everything but what they want."
Gouken nods and says," I understand you're all worried, but I would like to ask you all to have a little faith in my judgment. After all, I raised and trained the boy for years. I seen Doug like this before, when he is confused, and doubted himself till I uppercut the doubt out of him!
Doug, does not have much respect in authority, let's just say from what I gathered his, less than ideal family did not do a good job of teaching him it. Doug is hesitate to believe anything other then what he believes is right, not out of disrespect, but out of doubt they understand the truth, and him.
And, like you all mentioned, the horrors of war have hardened Doug's outlook, as it does too many fine men who survive. Not to mention right before are last training session something about a women hit him hard."
James sighs and says,"That's right, he told me how he found his former girlfriend Maria cheated on him. I think, that made him much bitterer then he would like to admit."
Gouken nods and says," Ah yes, Doug always one to hide his emotions from me and no doubt from others as well, even his friends. Everyone, I think Doug just needs time to sort himself out. If we let him have a bit of breathing room I doubt we will have to worry about him losing his way or betraying us.
And hopefully he will do it soon, he better expect my training because I won't allow anyone to disgrace my school! I would have taught it to Ryu or Ken, but Doug is my best student no matter if he can accept it or not!"
Zoda then says,"Believe in Doug we will Gouken. Understand we do, how one must deal with pain their own way."
Master Gerard nods and says,"Not many people would call us wise if we did not understand that everyone is different. I just hope Doug's able to resolve this shortly, we have many other issues to deal with after all. Ah yes, speaking of that forgive us Gouken but it's time we move on to are next case for the day. Is the team ready James?"
James nods and says,"Indeed, and Samus Aran and Bacchus should be here soon as well."
Eraqus then nods and says," Thank you James, tell them they can come in. I am grateful that Ansem was able to help us find this, the sooner this case is solved, and then another dark page of the universes history can be solved. Gouken looks amused and says,"
Oh, and just what are you talking about?" As the Masters go on to inform Gouken what they are in fact talking about, we now leave them for now, to turn are view back to his student!
And that means the scene is now an angry Doug stepping out of the elevator as he says," God damn it, freaking Gouken came here to get on my case? Does no one freaking trust me just because I have to break a few rules to get the job done? Sometimes the ends justify the means and it does not always mean that doing it that way is an evil way! God damn it, Ben, the masters, Gouken, all of them let their ideals and wishes rule them, and that makes it too easy for reality to sucker punch them when they are not looking!
Is it really too much to face the truth? An ugly life is still better then a finished one damn it! Sometimes I wonder if these guys only care about making things end their way over getting things done period! Damn it, all of these stupid ideals, why can't they just let them go all ready?" Doug then hears a chuckles before a voice from behind him then says,"
Simple man, because those ideals of theirs are there whole worlds, and if it pops, then so do them!"
Doug turns around, and sees none other than Brad on the other end of the hall way, with his four "pals" ! Doug just narrows his eyes and says,'Sup man, thought you were getting the house arrest treatment?"
Brad cracks his neck and says,"Those masters realized that keeping me locked up is pointless; you can't cage a beast when he is your best hunter after all. Though, those Masters have had their heads in the sand since day one, but I think even they by now will be forced to see how things really are."
Doug shrugs and says," I don't know Brad, those masters are even less found of you then they were before. Really man, did you think you could really say you were not in the Dark Tekken Gauntlet when there was a solid recording of you?"
Brad spits on the ground as he says," Those stuck up old geezers, talk about laws and want to condemn me without solid proof that it was an impostor? Talk about biased hypocrites! Still, just when I thought you and I saw eye to eye Fitter, somehow they had are chat on display. Just how dumb are you to think you could play me!"
Doug puts his hands in the air and says,"Easy there, I am sure as hell no snitch Brad. I found the joint by asking the stationed Enji Ky Kiske, looks like he played both of us. After all, if I was out to screw you over when I came don't you think Ben and a team of Enji would have came to put you down hard?"
Brad chuckles as he says,"Guess you have a point; Benny boy would never miss a chance to ruin my fun. Still, you're on thin ice, and don't think I'll have any problems causing you to crash."
Doug smirks and says,"Perfectly understandable, after all I don't really trust a man who murdered the top crime lords of the universe and wants to cause total universal anarchy. This war has shown me the light of what's important Brad.
And that's to discard the chains of illusion and focus on what's real. And, the reality is the Enji now trust me nearly as little as you thanks to me being on the gray train. Even if the true society is a cruel broken one, I rather live in reality then a dream land like some others."
Brad laughs and says,"Well, looks like you really do have some street smarts in you Fitter. All right, I won't throw you overboard just yet, but you're going to have to prove how serious you are to showing your true colors. It's all ready taken you longer to give me a straight answer, and I don't like waiting."
Doug shrugs and says," Not my fault I was dragged in to another life or death battle to save another bunch of stupid ingrates and nearly got sliced and blasted to kingdom com by the top psychopaths in the Zannacross Empire."
Brad chuckles and says,"Well, in any case, as you know words mean little to me anyway so if you're going to show your stuff, then you're going to do it with a actions! I have a "favor" for you Doug."
Doug raises an eyebrow and says,"And what is this favor Brad? I am not about to murder anyone for you, the worries are too much trouble for a guy like me."
Brad grins wider and says,"Take it easy coward, it's a lightweight task for a lightweight fighter! All you have to do is allow a few of my new fans in to the planet by the end of the day, got it!?
I am throwing another party on my home turf here, and since the Enji are breathing down my neck and everywhere else it would be a little smoother if someone else let them through the planet. Don't worry, it's just a few toys that the Lylat Kingdom does not think belong it its precious kingdom. Think you can handle it?"
Doug looks down and says," That's all? No sweat man, unlike a few others here I know everyone has fun their own way and needs to mind their own business."
Brad chuckles and says,"Good, then just allow the transport shuttle "Party Time" to land in to Neo Arcadia by tomorrow night without too much hassle. All right, enough of this, time to get Sabin off my back!"
Doug chuckles and says,"Don't hold your breath, the Enji clearly won't accept those who don't follow their ideals."
Brad chuckles as he walks in to the elevator and says," That's right, the Enji won't allow anyone that's not there ideal of a hero to party with them. But, soon, all of them are going to see whose ideals are the worthless ones!
When I win the Enji Budokai, the entire universe will see that for all of the idiots like Ben and Myer's talk, all of that justice and honor trash will be exposed for as worthless as it truly is and everyone will see that in the end the only thing that really matters is power and how to use it smartly! Oh, it's going to be a blast man! Soon all the groveling can at last be over with, and then everyone will grovel to ME or know real pain!"
Mondo chuckles and says,"This is going to be some party man, I can't wait to see all of those people stupid enough to be fans of idiots like Ben and Ezan see who the REAL winners is! "
Brad narrows his eyes as he says,"I don't think I even have to tell you how badly I want to smash Star Losers face in! For thinking he is better than me, and for causing Lacus to be confused, I'll show him his place once and for all!"
Jerid chuckles and says," It's going to be one hell of a fight man! If Ben really took down people as powerful as that Kira he is going to be your toughest fight yet Brad! "
Brad glares at Jerid and saying," What the hell you saying? Think I can't smash that wimp? "
Jerid at once gulps as he says,"Nah man I just mean that, AHH!"
With that Brad head buts Jerid right in the face and sends him flying to the other end of the room before he says," I am going to wipe the floor with Benny boy, end of story! It does not matter how strong he gets or is he is lucky enough to defeat the likes of Kira, Sephiroth or whatever! Ben's never going to be stronger than me, because he is not a real man who has the real drive, to get REAL god damn glory! Better know your priorities Doug, because soon it's going to be time for everyone to get the message!"
Doug shrugs and says,"Oh I have my priorities, don't have to worry about that. Still, maybe you should worry about yours Brad. After all, you really want to talk about hardcore stuff like this when someone could overhear it or watch on a camera?"
Brad laughs and says," You think I would miss something like that? Show him how Brad the Great covers his tracks Slate!"
With that Brad's pale faced follower extends his tong and Doug sees a pricing on it. Brad then snickers and says,"That's no normal ring, it's a jammer that ruins recordings and also bluffers the area around me so that no wise guy can get the jump on me! As I said, I am the master of covering my tracks, and no one is going to stop me from getting to the top! So come on boys, let's make it clear to the so called hot shots that they are going to have no choice but to play by the champions rules!"
With that Brad slams the elevator and the doors close as he and his pals yell loudly and Brad's group is off, not even caring that Jerid is unconscious from Brad's attack! After making sure that Brad's group is out of his hearing and that Jerid is out cold Doug sighs and says," Man, hate to admit it, but that jackass can cover his tracks quite well. It's not going to be easy to get this done right, not with everyone on my case.
Still, got to do what I got to do, even if I have to double dip in to dark side. No matter what, this insanity can't go on, and even if I have to get a bit more grief for it, I am not backing down now. Still, better think of a good way to play this angel before I dive over the cliff. Meh, I'll do it after watching the rest of Arcadian Pie five. No sense worrying about what can't be helped after all. Might as well catch a, huh?"
Doug is about to go down the stairs to his room, when he sees none other than Bacchus walk out of the hall way! At once the green cyborg sees him and says," Ah, how are you doing today mister Doug?"
The blond Enji shrugs and says,"Could be better, just trying to get to the bottom of things ."
Bacchus nods and says,"Ah, that would be my current objective as well Doug. In fact, I am sorry to be brief but I must report to the Masters. I am talking part on a new mission, one that at last might give me the answers I and many others, including Max have sought."
Doug raises a eyebrow as he says,"Sounds deep man. What do you mean?"
Max's former ally walks to the elevator as he then says,"To be brief, thanks to the efforts of Ansem Zeon, we at last have a lead that can hopefully lead us to the truth, the truth about the Juggernaught Project."
Doug widens his eyes and says,"Say what, that super freak monster soldier program I remember Max talking about right before his blazes of glory?"
Bacchus nods and says," Indeed. Like I said, Ansem has used his own sources to track down a man that might have taken part in the Juggernaut Project and still might be alive. I would explain more, but I must go to the official briefing ."
Doug nods and says,"Hell, this is interesting enough for me to get the full story, lead the way Bacchus!"
The man full of metal nods and Doug follows Bacchus ,and promptly finds himself back in the chambers of the Masters! Doug then sees that several more Enji are now in the room and James is also still around. But what catches Doug's eye is that none other than Samus is in the room as well with her helmet off. Doug grins at seeing the women in the Chozo armor and says," Yo Samus, what brings you around these parts?"
Samus nods and says," Ben's other friend right? I am here because I was contacted for a job by the Lylat Kingdom. Seems this is being taken quite seriously."
James then raises a eyebrow and says,"Doug, what are you doing here?"
Gouken is still in the room to and is chuckling as he says," Yes, have you come to realize your foolishness and want to beg for me to teach you? Well beg harder!"
Doug rolls his eyes and says,"I am just here because I want to see what the deal is with this. So you guys got a lead on that Juggernaut Project?"
Master Gerard nods and says," Indeed. All right, it seems everyone for the mission, plus extra has arrived so let's begin. Two days ago Ansem contacted us with information that he thought would be of use to us. And that information is that his sources have uncovered the whereabouts of a man who was involved with the Juggernaut Project ,Alfred Ashford."
Bacchus is shocked as he says," What, really? I remember Alfred. He was not one of the scientists, but his sister Alexia was and he was a native human to the world who contributed with plenty of funding. However, it was assumed that he died when the lab exploded, neither I or Max could find any trace to his survival."
Gerard nods and says,"We don't doubt the intensity of your search, nor do we blame you or anyone else for not finding him. Even Weil presumed he was dead, but just recently Ansem 's loyal forces uncovered a secret location to where the man had hid in isolation all of these years."
Doug chuckles and says,"Another rat trying to hide away to avoid what he had coming to him? Sounds like its time he face up to what he has done. Still, how the hell has he avoided being dragged out for so long? He hiding in a sun or something?"
James sighs and says," No, but till very recently his location would have been very tricky for us to move in on Doug. For it was not only in Zeon territory, but the planet where the Juggernaught Project, and many other dark deeds were done, planet Irazos."
Doug whistles and says," Whoa, that one eh? Guess that world was a hot zone for a while. AH!"
Gouken instantly warps behind Doug and smacks him in the head as he says,"Be respectful Doug! Millions died pointlessly there!"
Doug rubs his head as he says,"
All right sorry! Geeze, it's all in the past now anyway!"
Master Yamamoto sighs and says," Thankfully the grudge the people of that world had for the Lylat Kingdom is in some part in the past thanks to Ansem trying to rebuild trust with that and the other war turn worlds that suffered greatly under Weil's reign.
And it was thanks to this renewal in trust that we found the location of this Alfred Asford. So, for the sake of gaining the truth of what caused the Juggernaught Project base to explode and caused the civil war, we must do whatever it takes to find Alfred, and try and bring him here to answer for his crimes or at the very least find more in the event that he is dead.
That is why Samus, if you would use your skills to help the Enji strike team complete their task. Alfred has no magical power, and whatever private forces he has should not be overwhelming to us, but even so we must always take proper procedures to get things done properly."
Samus nods and says,"I understand Master Yamamoto and I will gladly join this mission. "
Eraqus then says," Then with that everything is set for the mission to begin. It is a shame that Ezan declined the mission, but since it is not a top priority task I suppose there is no need to object for his request to be allowed to train for the Enji Budokai. I suppose we will just have to hope that the missing member won't be needed."
Doug grins as he says," Hey guys, if you need a spot filled I am game. "
James widens his eyes and says," Is that so Doug? I thought you would want to prepare for the Enji Budokai, even if it's by your own methods?"
Doug chuckles and says,"No better training then live action is my motto! To tell you the truth nothing clears my mind more than solving dramas, and this is a rather big one! So, I would really be grateful if you guys would let me tag along."
Genkai then sighs and says," So now your gun ho about this eh boy? You don't have your own agenda do you?"
Doug laughs and says,"Come on guys, I am too lazy for something so thought out. Can't an Enji help his comrades get things done?"
Master Zoda sighs and says,"Help you can Doug. But, follow as a team you must."
Doug gives a thumbs up and says,"Awesome. We may not see eye to eye but I promise that we are on board on this."
James then looks at Doug intently as he says,"You're sure about this Doug? If things go to plan that will leave you only around three days to prepare for the Enji Budokai."
Doug shrugs and says,"Like I said my man, I do what I feel like I have to do, not what others feel I have to do."
Gouken just sighs and says," Well, if you're insistent on doing things in a messy manner Doug, just don't do it halfheartedly!"
Doug laughs and says,"Don't worry about that old man, I intend to do this all the way. "
Bacchus then nods and says,"All right then, I believe the time of departure is an hour from now. I shall see you all there. "
James then sighs and says," I wonder if I should tell Ben about this. He does want to finish what Max started. "
Doug responds with,"Nah, the guy has enough on his mind and we are not even sure this is anything worth getting excited about. Just leave this to me and make sure things stay rosy. "
James chuckles and says," I'll try my best, if they are rosy at all. I must ask though Doug, why do you insist on leaping in to situations that you don't have to?"
Doug puts on the newly repaired sunglasses he stole from Weaker, and smirks as he says," Simple, because I don't mind problems, just another part of life. Besides, with Max out of the picture, someone has to be Ben's shadow while he tries to stay so hard on the light. All right, I have food to pack and a movie to set to record, later."
With that Doug waves and goes to leave the room again and when he is gone James fixes his glassless as he says," Doug, I admit your nature has become quite confounding. Sometimes it seems like your acting out to be defiant, and other times its like your just taking the burden for yourself."
Gouken chuckles and says," If you're having trouble figuring out my pupils behavior then I'll give my two cents James. After knowing him so long I don't think it's a mystery. Doug always wanted to get things solved as soon as possible, even if it meant head rushing in to my tests, and having more thrown on him then he could handle. It's not anxiety that bothers him, he can be rather lazy. No, it's just that he does not like to drag things out, and when he can't things resolved it frustrates him."
James nods and says," Hopefully he will able to keep a cool head while trying to resolve this thing, too much is on the line for impatience to lead the charge."
Gouken just sighs and says,"Well, I guess we will see just how much control Doug really has on his feelings. Arg, this is annoying, I am getting a drink! "
With that Gouken jumps out the open window behind him, and likewise we now leave the scene here, to change are views to see just how well Doug and the others new mission is!
Now, to get to the good stuff we once more fast-forward a bit in time, to just as Doug Samus and the others are about to get to the core of the mission! Yes, the three Lylat ships taking part on the mission had a smooth ride and Doug spent most of it watching more movies and occasional warm-ups.
And so now the scene is right as Doug is leaving the Great Fox and sets foot on the world of Irazos, and as Doug sets foot out in to the war torn planet and only sees his fellow Enji, a few locals and the ocean in front of him before he chuckles and says,"
Ah, starting the mission with a break first thing? Sounds like a good game plan!"
Samus rolls her eyes before she puts on her helmet and says,'This is hardly a break, this is us preparing to reach that Alfred's lair."
Doug raises a eyebrow as he says,"Well, then why are we stopping?"
Bacchus chuckles as he says,"Oh that's right, you were sleeping when I went over this part. It seems that there is a very good reason it has taken so long to find Alfred Ashford, and it's because he has lived underwater for many years now."
Doug chuckles and says,"Underwater, you're kidding right? What, he lived this whole time in a sub? Does not sound like a rich scum bag's style. Oh?"
He then sees the Great Fox get lower in to the ocean, before a submarine like vehicle, the Blue Marine comes out and Samus then says,"More like a whole underwater city kid, this guy apparently was so well off that he never would have to step foot on dry land again. He named the place Rapture Rockford city."
Doug nods and says,"I see, that does sound more like someone like are targets style."
With that everyone then sees a round brown ship move towards them before Samus then says,"Come on, this ship was suppose to be the one bringing supplies to this place. Thankfully we brokered a deal with the captain, and should be able to sneak on in."
Doug then raises an eyebrow as he says," Sounds like a sweet deal, but, just what will happen if this guy decides something is fishy? We seem to be sitting ducks underwater, and while I can hold my breath for a while it still going to be a pain."
Fox Mclouad then gets out of the Blue Marine's and says,"Don't worry guys, ill tag along in stealth mode and if there is any trouble, counter with the needed responds."
Doug shrugs and says,"Well, guess that settles it, time for some wild water ride."
Samus then sighs and says,"Just keep quiet kid, it's going to be a tense time all ready."
Doug chuckles and says," You dealt with a lot right Samus? Well deal with this, because we need some humor for the horror show! All right, let's do this."
With that the Enji and others enter the submarine before they at once start their mission! Doug quickly sees the vehicle dive underwater and as Doug looks out a window he sees that the water is green before he says," Damn, even the water is lame looking. Guess this world really was messed up hard core from the war."
Bacchus nods and says," That's, one way to put it. The sheer amount of merciless carnage unleashed by both sides on this world, along with the final full powered orbital bombardment that Xehamaru unleashed before he betrayed the Enji damaged this planet to its core. After the civil war ended the survivors got a token aid from Weil, but it still took everything the populace had to survive. The people here, have not been in the best of times to say the least. Oh?"
Doug then looks at something coming in to his range site before he then says," Well, at least someone has been well off. Figures."
With that everyone then sees a giant city in a metal brown reef like dome come in to their range of sight!
Doug then whistles and says,"Well, at least this information is spot on."
Bacchus nods and says,"Indeed. All right, at last a chance to expose the true extent of the corrupt madness is at hand!"
Samus then checks the incoming area with her visor before she says,"Well, looks like we are going to expose something. I am picking up all kinds of readings; they might be on to us."
Doug sees there ship get closer to the Rockford Rapture island city and just shrugs as he says,"I don't know, it could just be the systems working on schedule. After all, we are on the guy's ship, maybe he is just letting us in? As there ride approaches the docking bay of the underwater city Bacchus then crosses his arms and says,"Or he could be setting us up for a trap. Still, I suppose there is only one way to find out."
With that the ship manages to dock correctly in to the massive dwellings of Alfred Ashford, and in a minute Doug and co are outside. Doug sees his surroundings are like a airport terminal before the blond Enji then says,"Acting all casual with having a private base, and living it up while the rest of the planet suffers? I don't know this guy but I can't wait to smack him hard all ready!"
Samus sighs and says," Oh this is going to be fun. All right, let's get ready for the welcoming committee."
Doug then sees the other Enji Knights looking around the area.
The leader of the mission, a well built man in his thirties with brown hair and eyes wearing golden armor all over, Enji Captain Libra Dohko, a man who was part of the golden saint warriors from his own world before he joined the Enji.
The Enji behind him is a man in his twenties with spiky brown hair, a black jacket and a red shirt, and black pants. In his hands is a large metal half spear half lance with a red scarf attached to it named Sunlight Heart, and he is Kazuki Muto from a world that a group of warriors called the Alchemy Warriors to defeat a powerful monster of a man named Victor before he became a Enji.
The man to the right of Doug is a man with blue pants and a black sleeveless outfit with long blue hair in a pony tail. In his hand is the kantana "Six Illusions" Mugen and he is Yu Kanda a warrior who hunted demons called Akuma on his world and belonged to his worlds Black Order Exorcist unit before the Enji arrived, helped defeat the villain of his world called the Millennium Earl and recruited him.
The last member of the Enji squad is a women with long red hair black eyes and armor on her top and a blue skirt. She is Erza Scarlent and she belonged to a guide of magical warriors called Fairy Tail where she could use her magic to change her armor to various types and had the nickname Titaina Erza before she became a member of the Enji. As the Enji look around Samus has her arm cannon ready before she says,"This is not good, I think they are ready to strike."
The other Enji get on guard before Bacchus scans the area and says,"I, don't detect any life forms in the vicinity, and I don't pick up any combat machine energy singles."
Doug shrugs and says,"Maybe this Alfred guy runs a much lamer shift then we thought. Or hell it could just be nighttime in this crazy land. Whatever, not going to get far just want for them to make the first move. Uh, anywhere to look for a needle in this crazy haystack?"
Samus then goes to a terminal, and plugs her cannon in to it before she downloads the systems to her suit and says,"Well, getting a layout was easy enough. Alfred Ashford is in the center of this place, in the capital sector. Naturally it's the most defended."
Doug cracks his neck and says,"Then naturally it's where we are heading! All right hot shot, get ready to spill the beans!"
With that the group enter a terminal, and with more ease then they expected, make their way through the landing sector and make their way to central section of this bizarre place. And, as they step in to see a castle standing in a artificial island surrounded by water and stone bridges Samus then says," That looks like a good place to find Alfred, and yet still no guards."
Erza then looks around and says," Not only that, but not a single person has been seen since we got here. There is no way one man could live here himself."
Kazuki shrugs and says," Maybe the guy is so paranoid that he only lives with robots?"
Libra crosses his arms before he says,"No, we saw on the map there was a theater district and a shopping district. If he lived by himself I fail to see why the man would need such things. People where here, at least at one point."
Bacchus sighs and says,"This troubles me, Alfred could be trying to use these people to recreate the Juggernaught project, and even use the people here as sacrifices. We must not waste time, let's hurry."
With that the group does move out and make it past the stone bridge to the castle entrance. Once there everyone looks around, wary of an ambush before Doug then says,"
So, should we just stroll in and knock or just forgo the knocking?"
Samus then says,"Well, there is a sizable bounty on his head, alive, so we should at least try and convince him to turn himself in."
Doug nods and says,"All right, let's see just how much of a loon he is. HEY!"
With that Doug shocks everyone by causally strolling on in and knocking on the large double doors so hard the castle he causes the entire area to shake as he says," Get out here Alfred and this will be a lot less painful!"
His comrades are shocked at him before Yu then says,"What are you doing Fitter? "
Doug chuckles and says,"Well, there is no point beating around the bush, let's just get this done! Come on, even if he has some friends waiting for us I welcome it over the suspense! Not like he has anything that can top us, so bring it on! Oh?"
Everyone then feels the ground shake before Bacchus then says,"Seismic activity detected, and a large amount of it!"
Eriza then takes out a sword and says," Great Doug, your impatience just might have blown everything!"
Doug shrugs and says,"Ah, chill out it's just a fancy gun at best I am sure it's, huh? Whoa!"
All of a sudden everyone hears a monstrous roar, before the ground beneath Doug shatters, and a massive gulp worm monster instantly appears and swallows Doug up in its giant mouth before extending upward!
Kazuki then says,"No, Doug!"
Libra then tensely adds,"Looks like Alfred is not going to make this easy! Samus then charges up her arm cannon and says,"Maybe so, but that's just going to make this worse for him!"
With that Samus fires off a full powered Plasma blast from her energy cannon, just as Bacchus fires off a barrage of missiles from his arms! However the attacks just bounce off the worm and explode in the distance!
Bacchus then steps back as he says,"It seems Alfred was more prepared for us then we thought, its skin seems designed to repel energy and matter!"
The other Enji then take out there weapons and have their power levels explode before Yu then says,"Then we will just have to take a different take on this! Huh?"
The Enji are all about to charge in to attack, before they see a explosion of energy blast out of the worm's mouth, before its large body expands, and explodes! Everyone instantly sees a agitated Doug float out of what use to be the innards of the giant mutant before he wipes off various materials off his coat and says,"Oh man, that was one nasty surprise, not to mention disgusting ! God damn this Alfred, he is going to pay for this cleaning bill."
Bacchus sighs and says,"It's good to see, that you're quite hard to take down Doug. Your power level is quite impressive. "
Samus then lowers her cannon and says," Well, at the very least at least we know to expect resistance. All right, waiting time is over, let's get in. I should be able to use my morph ball form to sneak in easily enough."
Doug then has his energy light up his right hand before he clenches it and says,"Don't bother Samus, let's just take the direct path!"
With that Doug winds up his fist and jumps up before saying,"You sent your welcome card I ll send mine punk! Hammer of Might!"
With that Doug smashes the doors down with a powerful punch and the other Enji just look at each other before Kazuki chuckles nervously and says,"Well, I guess we do need to move fast."
Samus nods and says,"Yah, let's just hope Alfred is the chatting type."
With that the group enter the private dwellings of their target, and are ready for anything. However, as they enter they are shocked that they have a welcoming committee!
However, it's not the intensity of those waiting for them that shocks them, but the lack of such an emotion, because all that they see are dead people all around the area! Seeing pools of blood everywhere causes the group to cringe as Ezria then says,"
What, is going on? Did, someone else arrive?"
Samus checks the area with her visor, and then presses her fingers on a women wearing some sort of made like outfit to check her pulse before the bounty hunter sighs and says,"I am not sure, but, it's clear that they are not trying to trick us.
They are dead without a doubt, and at the very least have been so for a week. It's only the compressed nature of this area to thank for them not decomposing so fast."
Bacchus then checks the area with his scanners before he says,"I am beginning to pick up some other foot prints. Seems we were not the first to find out Alfred's location!
"Doug then gets annoyed and says,"Then let's book it! As much as a freak this guy is turning out to be I don't want a even sleazier slime ball taking him out before he spills his gusts! Let's go!"
With that Samus nods and says,"I'll lead the way, fallow me!"
The bounty hunter activates her hyper boosters to move out at full speed and the other Enji move out at their best to not be left behind. As Doug moves through the mansion of the madman and sees more corpses of people that seem to be guards and servants he also sees plenty of paintings, many of a gorgeous blond women before he groans and says,"Man, this guy seems to be the obsessive type, for all we know he just went loco and decided to kill everyone!"
Bacchus sighs as they arrive in another fancy looking door before he says,"I hope it would not come to that, otherwise madness would truly consume are only lead in ages."
Doug then winds up his fist as he says," All right, time to repeat the wrecking crew! Huh?"
Bacchus puts out his arm as he says," Please desists in that Doug. We are not sure just want defenses Alfred has set up for his final wall. It would seem that it was not forced open, so we can't leave anything to chance."
Yu nods and says,"Yes, I would like not to have us blown to bits, or have are target do that to himself because of the reckless impulses of a fool."
Doug just snickers and says,"Man, you, Ezan, what's with the quite guys always gunning for me? Whatever, I can wait, just do it right."
With that Samus nods and says,"Of course."
With that both she and Bacchus hack in to the nearby terminal, and both use their skills to emulate that the doors two keys, that seem to be the missing eyes for a nearby lion head as the statue glows and turns around, before the doors open, in a creepy manner like in the old Resident Evil games !
Libra narrows his eyes as he says,"All right everyone, get ready for anything."
With that the others nod, and see a wide briefing room which has a bookshelf, a fireplace, some sort of large closet, and a wide table with a computer, a chair and to the shock of everyone, a man wearing a red business suit and having short combed blond hair standing up in on the table in the shadows! Everyone slowly walks forward as they see the man is motionless before Bacchus clears his throat and says,"
Sir, are you Alfred Ashford? If so, please come with us." Libra nods and says," Don't be afraid Ashford. You may have committed crimes but there is still a shot of you getting out of the worse possibly situation. Just, surrender and, huh? No, NO!"
As everyone gets closer, and the dome that the castle is station's artificial lighting blasts down, showing to everyone's dread, that it is indeed Alfred Ashford, and the man is apparently hanged on what seems to be some sort of cable over his small chandelier! Doug slams the wall besides him strong enough to punch a hole in it as he says,"God damn it, looks like the guy really was a grade A weasel till the end! "
Samus just sighs and says,"Well, there goes the bonus."
Bacchus then looks around and says,"I just hope at the very least we can find some data that can be useful."
Eriza quickly checks the computer on the table after brushing aside the bloody broken snow globe that was there before she opens the terminal and gets annoyed as she says,"
The computer is a total blank, Alfred must have done it this entire bases systems. Well, looks like we were not fast enough. Alfred either went crazy just recently, or saw us coming and killed himself. His body, does not look to decomposed, so it can't be that long ago. If, only we moved faster."
Libra then gets determined as he says,"Don't call it a failed mission just yet guys. There might still be a place that can give us a clue, or someone who survived! Until every possible area has been searched, we can't give up!
" Doug nods and says," True it's not time to throw in the towel, but it's going to be a hell of a lot harder getting this done. Oh well, at least I can have a better tour of this guys place, and maybe snag some food. Oh?"
Doug taps open the closet, only to see some sort of, large music box with a man piece, a girl piece, and a spider piece. Doug sees the man piece twirling around and around before he rolls his eyes and says,"
Man, what is it with rich people and buying useless junk? Makes them feel good to shove down stuff no one even thinks about buying to their servants throats or something? I mean seriously, who would want to listen to music from here anyway? Bah talk about, what the?"
Doug flicked the man piece out of frustration only to by chance get it unstuck, and have the entire device continue playing a lullaby! (The Ashford Lullaby from Code Veronica.) As the Guy and Girl piece unite and do some sort of mock romantic twirl Doug rolls his eyes and says,"
Decent tune if I needed a lullaby, but unless it's making a sandwich I wish I had the last minute of my life back. Huh?"
All of a sudden the music box splits in two, before everyone sees it move back to reveal a hidden hallway! Doug chuckles and says," Now that's what I am talking about!"
Samus looks in to the hall way and sees a stair case leading upward before she says," Nice one Doug, this must have been made with special components to block scanners. Guess it looks like things are not grim just yet, as long as this is not a trap."
Bacchus nods and says,"Only one way to find out, shall we?"
With that the other hero's nod and proceed through the hall way, and after going up they then see another wide room, lined up with gargoyle statues and yet another door. After going through this door, everyone then finds a fancy bed room! Doug moans and says,"The guy even had to hide where he slept? Huh?"
Doug then notices that there is a carousel in the edge of the room before he says," Well, I guess maybe he did not want his servants to know how much of a freak he was. Still, expect for making this day even odder seems all of that was for a dead end. Oh?"
He then sees Bacchus look hopeful as the robotic man then says," Not quite Doug! Look, Alfred has a laptop! And, if, by chance the data is not linked to the main server, there still might not be a chance!"
With that Doug sees Bacchus quickly pick up the black laptop and turning it on. After a few tense moments Bacchus for the first time shows happiness on his face as he says,"
Yes, it still is here!" Doug raises an eyebrow and says,"So, we have something going here?"
His responds is Max's former ally instantly nodding and says," It may be better then I hoped. Wither Alfred intended to hide his personal data or was going to erase it before his death is now irrelevant, I am picking up files with full details on the Juggernaut Project!"
The others look relived as Kazuik grins and says,"All right, we made it in time after all! So, do we have anything that will help find what we are looking for?"
Bacchus presses a few buttons on his arm before he says,"I can't confirm that instantly, there is a lot of data on here. It would seem thankfully that Alfred may have been trying to replicate the Juggernaught Project, and copied all of the data from the original lab. Max, at last are answers are in are reach. Here, I all ready decoded and decrypted the earliest recorded file, ill read it now."
Doug grins and says," Haha, guess having a computer in your brain can do more than I thought. All right dude, spill the beans."
With that Bacchus nods and says," It says here, that Ozwell E. Spencer, William Birkin, James Marcus, Alexia Ashford and Wilhelm' Mantel have all sighed on to take part in the creation of a super soldier program, one to create a being who's power would surpass any weapon. Well, I do suppose that my name or my contributions were not that note worthy really. Let's see, it says how Alfred, along with others like Weil and Xiza are all secret contributors.
A whole section is about the grand experiment of creating the ultimate warrior, one that will have the power to oppose the Enji Knights and there oppressive idealism. It also says it will use the ultimate geniuses of the brightest minds in the known universe to achieve this end and, huh? What, including the work of, Andross?"
Doug widens his eyes as he says,"Wait, Andross, as in that crackpot ape from Venom who tried to concur the Lylat Kingdom with a whole bunch of bio weapons? "
Samus then looks at the line that mentions Andross and says," This does not add up, Andross was killed before the Juggernaught project was started! Was, he not dead after all?"
Bacchus looks intensely at the fallowing data as he says,"No he did truly die by the Star Fox team. However it seems the scientists took all of the data on bio weapons and used that for the project. How disturbing, I was involved with the project and even I was not aware of Andross 's work being part of the core of the project."
Doug nods and says,"Well, looks like these guys wanted to make one hell of a monster so it looks like they took from the best of the worse. Still , it's hardly shocking news that this project was messed up to the max and it still leaves us clueless to how this mess exploded."
Samus then chuckles and says,"It's going to take time to get to the crucial information Doug; it's a tremendous amount of data after all."
Libra nods and says,"Yes, and at least the important thing is that we will have time to carefully look over this to expose the truth at last. Well everyone, as long as we get out of here alive it would seem the mission objective has been completed. So, let's just take a look at this entire installation to see if anyone survived going down with this sick man's ship."
Doug sighs as he says,"Sounds doable, but from the looks of things it's going to take one big miracle for anyone to survive by now. "He then looks around and sees a blond wig on the room's table on a head model before he shutters and says,"Man, I don't even want to know what he did with that. "
Doug looks around and sees the carousel again and walks around to make sure no one is behind it before he chuckles darkly and says," Man, hiding in some underwater city, having a room full of toys?
Man, spoiled rich brats are the worse, thinking they can do whatever they want and buy enough stuff so that they can live in their own bubble forever. Everyone has to deal with reality sooner or later or the reality will be that they bite the big one! Too bad all of those guys had to bite it with this loon to. Huh?"
Doug was about to step out and realized his foot was touching something odd. He looks down, and is shocked to see it's a blue book with some sort of seal! Doug raises a eyebrow as he picks it up and says,"What the, Alfred's private diary? Are you kidding me? Man this is one serious fruit cake. Oh well, this might be good for a laugh or two on the ride home. All right, time to see who got a happy ending to this horror show."
With that Doug puts the diary in his pocket and everyone moves out to see if anyone is left in the Rapture Rockford installation. However, sadly after him and the others search for half a hour around the rest of the insane underwater base to find no survivors, only countless test subjects for a new Juggernaught Project and leftover minions of Alfred including dome headed "
Big Daddy" robots, and mutant monsters called Hunters and Banda-snatchers and even human Zombies!
After grimly realizing from the looks of it that there was no survivors the good guys decided that they must at least make the most of what they did fine, and so the scene is now the Enji Knights and the others outside the lake preparing to at once board the Great Fox and the other ships to return to Corneria and inform the others of the still unfolding discovery.
Currently Doug is leaning on the edge of the ship as he sees Fox talking to Bacchus and Libra before the humanoid fox finishes taking in what he heard and looks disgusted as he says,"Incredible, to think that even Andross in some way would be involved with this insane experiment. It does sound like him though, to cause trouble even after he was absolute destroyed.
Well, at the very least it seems that we don't have to worry about it being him being behind this madness as a ghost again like how he controlled General Scales. Still, we are sure, that this Juggernaught Project never was completed?"
The native from the world of Morpheus nods and says,"It's nearly a ninety nine percent chance that is the case General Mccloud. After delving in to the data files, it would seem that while there were many half complete test subjects that had savage strength, most died after a day.
Likewise Alfred himself never succeeded in succeeding where the others have failed. All he managed to do is create countless abominations and try and revived his dead sister Alexia in what would seem to have been his own Code Veronica project."
Libra sighs and says,"Well, it is reassuring that we don't have to worry about some super freak out there. Still, it's a shame that we still don't know just how the project went so horribly wrong that it caused that explosion."
Bacchus nods and says,"I am sorry, but it seems that the files don't have that event, I suppose it must have been something that was not recorded. Alfred was not aware how it exploded either, he was away at the time.
I did find that he created Rapture Rockford in order to elude authorities after the civil war ended, and so he could be undisturbed in his work. However all his later files show is his dual obsessions with completing the Juggernaut Project to show the glory of his family, and reviving his sister.
Since theses where his private files I am sure it's a strong chance that if he had a breakthrough it would be posted here. Yet, I don't find anything that shows he made real progress, nor do I have anything here that leads to there being some prior attack. However, there is still more data to decipher, so we might get are breakthrough yet."
Samus nods and says,"Don't worry, just maybe there will be a lead to the key to solving all of this. We just can't give up and be have to push are selves to be real throe with it."
Libra nods and says,"Indeed. Well, for now at least, the people here can find there loved ones, give them proper burials and have some sort of peace. We did all we can here, so its time to return back and report to the Masters and King Atem. Good work everyone, mission complete, so let's go home."
Samus looks indifferent and says,"Great, with this only being half of what we really needed, guess its back to grasping at straws."
Doug chuckles and says,"Ah don't be so tense Samus, with the key players being a bunch of freaks like this, no way the truth can be to hard to dig up."
As she shrugs and returns to the ship Doug then looks at Alfred's diary again and walks in himself as he says,"After all, with a bunch of egomaniacs like theses guys no way they covered there tracks totally. Ah, what the hell, lets see the life of a snob."
With that Doug skims over the diary as the Lylat forces once more take off and leave Irazos. As Doug reads at random, and then notices that Alfred wrote a whole chapter to how lovely and wondrous his sister Alexia was Doug gags when he sees a part about Alfred getting furious at another man talking smoothly to her before he says,"Oh man, I know I had a few cousins where I wish the blood was not so thick, but this is freaking gross! Nothing more creeper then a man who wants to marry his sister. Of course the only thing lamer is acting like he had a chance with her anyway.
After all anyone who thinks he is better then everyone just because his daddy bought him praise is asking for being hated."
As Doug reads on and sees Alfred ranting on about hating the common trash he rolls his eyes and says,"I mean seriously, freaks like this guy and Weil who can't even think of themselves as anything less then perfect show that people should have humbled them long ago but got lazy. Oh man, now what?
(This is now Alfred's writing. )
Friday the thirteenth, I am starting to wonder just how devout the people here are to there task. I mean, I know Alexia is indifferent to who coexists in her world as long as she can presume her experiments, but, even she must realize that there is a prestige to her work, and this entire installation! Why else is everyone's entire existence here suppose to be classified, and that only those who were truly dedicated to the success of this project could be allowed to even know it existed?
Bah, I suppose it's because someone lied about the strength of their will. Seriously, both that William Winnicot and his son Kevin, both are to, tainted to be here. Even if the genius of there family goes back for generations, those who are afraid to create true works of genius here should not be allowed!
But, I suppose that William hid his true colors before. But, he was a fool to think that the others would not notice, I of course noticed. After all, he must truly be a fool to think that he would not be in trouble for brining some random family to the lab! I mean, who brings some mere janitor and his family to a top secret project just because he saved his life? Favors and duty are nothing before a masterpiece that must not be disturbed!
And the worst part, is that I think it's all that gutless worm Kevin's fault for letting common trash in here. Kevin tells me that that man Clyde's son, was his own friend and when he went to school there he stood up for him. And that he wanted to see this place so Kevin insisted they bring the whole lot along. Oh please, the truly strong know that they don't need the expectance or the protection of the weak filth! But it seems Kevin was oh so lonely, that he let this thug control him.
Bah, Alexia is all I need, the rest can laugh there heads off of stupidly for all I care! And especially that slimy, disgusting monkey! How dare he, how dare he talks with Alexia as if he is worthy of doing so! Kevin must truly be beyond desperate for someone his age to be chummy with if he will even allow that scum to act that way and get away with it! But, oh, the most furious thing of all, is how when I yelled at the fool of his arrogance, he dared to call me the idiot!
He really thinks what he says, that he is greater then me just because his muscles might be a bit more fit then my own? Bah, when the Juggernaut Project is completed at last, a thousand, a million fools like him will be nothing but ants! And yet, even as I said that, he laughs, mocks me and says that only someone like him could use that power properly? Such know nothing scum, can never be forgiven! Yes, nothing is worse then bums who think themselves as kings.
And, I can't wait for that mere ape to have reality soon crash and burn upon him! Yes, soon that, drat's, his name was, yes! Soon, that rat will see where he truly belongs and then he will pay!
Yes, I won't forgiven that scum, I won't forgive, that Brad Fowltror! "
With that Doug's mouth drops to the floor as he is so shocked that he drops the diary! Doug slowly raises his hands, and smacks himself in the face to make sure he is still awake and alive. He then looks out the window, and sees the ship is just out of Irazos's atmosphere before he picks up the diary, and looks at the page hard before he sees that as far as he can tell, Brad's name is indeed on there before he says,"
Wait, wait! Lacus always said, that Brad never went any where as a kid right? That, his parents killed each other or something?
Wait, but, that would mean. HOLY SH, WHOA!"
Before Doug can finish his curse something rocks the ship so hard he goes flying head first to the wall! After Doug rubs his head and sees that the alarm is going out he curses again and says,"
Oh come on! Don't tell me that some deity is playing some major trolling on me, because this is not the time! Whatever, better find out what's going on."
Doug then quickly puts the diary away as he says," Because if this is real, then there is no way I am going down now! "
With that Doug darts off so fast to the command deck that it only takes him ten seconds to reach it before he sees everyone else is there all ready and says,"
All right, what idiot is dumb enough to try and mess with us now? Huh?"
Doug then sees outside the ship some sort of bubble of red and black energy seems to be boiling up before Samus then says,"
That kind of idiot Doug."
Fox's friend Sillpy is pressing buttons on the near by terminal as he says,"I don't understand, this has never happened before! We were just about to enter Hyper space and return home, before a surge of energy popped up out of no where, and seems to have caught us in something!"
Fox then says,"This is bad, could be some unstable wormhole so lets get out of here and try another path!"
His frog pal wipes some sweat off him as he says,"No can do Fox, this energy seems to be drawing us in, like a magnet of sorts!"
Libra clutches his fist as he says,"What is this, some sort of trap? Huh, now what?"
He and everyone else gets there answer as the mass of energy outside in space begins to form in space, and break off in to three lesser fragments before a mad voice booms out and says," No one, no one that seeks the truth can survive! All, ALL will perish!"
Soon Fox widens his eyes as he says," No, that voice, I would never forget that voice! Its, impossible!"
Everyone then sees the three fragments of energy stabilize, before two of them form giant golden hands, and the last largest one forms what seems to be a giant monkey head with white fur! As Doug looks annoyed at this he then says," Who the hell is that?"
Fox steps back as he says,"You really don't know Fox? That's Andross, the man who killed my father, and tried to concur the core Lylat system twice!"
Doug responds with,"What the hell? I thought he was dead! "
Slippy nods and says,"He was, but he did come back from death before thanks to hijacking the power of the Krazoa spirits. Still, its been so long that we did not think he could come back by now. Could, the Zannacross Empire have revive him? I don't know why, they had plenty of other murderous jerks to bring back!"
Andross just laughs madly as he says,"Die, all who seek the truth will die!"
Andross then has his eyes glow red, before the entire region of space between him and the Lylat fleet glows red and Fox is confused as he says,"Why, does he keep saying that? I thought he was after me, but, it seems he is not even aware it's me!"
Bacchus then presses something, and looks shocked as he says,"No, impossible! I am picking up the frequency, the level of the code Andross would be using to let us hear his voice through space, and bits of it, are the same as from Alfred's files!"
Samus then says,"What, so you mean that, he is after us because we found Alfred's data?"
Fox then says," What, you're telling me Andross is some ghost that is guarding the truth to the Juggernaught Project? That, does not make any sense at all! "
All of a sudden Andross laughs madly again as he points his index finger at the Great Fox, and it glows with purple energy before Doug then says,"This may be as clear as mud but what is clear if we don't do something we are in trouble!"
With that everyone then sees Andross fire a blast of energy and the Lylat ships are barley able to dodge as the Great Fox gets part of its right wing blown off!
Andross just laughs again and repeats his line before taking a deep breath, and inhaling near by asteroids before Doug then says,"Damn it, nothing I hate more then being powerless! If I could just get at him I would waste that freak! Don't we have any spare space suits or something?"
Libra closes his eyes and says,"None that would be able to sustain the amount of pressure from are power levels. I am afraid we must leave this to the ships."
Slippy chuckles and says," Hold the phone guys, there might be a way for you guys to get out there! This weird energy dome that Andross unleashed may be trapping us, but it also has charged up this entire sector with energy!
Using that new feature to give emergency support to damaged ships who's life support systems get shot, we can use the fleet to create a dome of atmosphere around the area! Just be fast!"
Doug pounds his hands together as he says,"Trust me I will. I am in no mood for any stinking ape to blow it all up!"
Fox nods and says,"All right, link up with the ships and start the systems now! Get going guys, ill join you with Falco and the others in my Arwing as soon as everything is clear. Good luck."
Bacchus nods and says,"We come to close to be stopped now, lets do are best everyone. "
With that everyone quickly moves to the docking bay of the Great Fox, and to Doug's relief everyone then sees a bridge of light coming out of it and leading right to Andross! Samus chuckles as she arms her cannon and says,"Good thing they worked out this new trick, I always do my job better close up. "
Libra nods as he then says,"The fleet is in a fragile position by doing this. We have to end this as quickly as possible!"
Yu nods as he takes out his blade and have it glow with energy before he says,"Don't fret captain, this madman will pay for getting in are way."
Kazuki thrusts his lance like weapon in to the air as it glows with light and he says,"That's right, we won't be losing here!"
Eriza then charges out of the ship and says," What are you all waiting for, lets go!"
With that the five Enji and there two powerful comrades run out, and soon run in to there large evil obstacle Andross is trying to directly smash the Lylat ships with his fists as he keeps laughing in deliriously psychotic fashion as he says,"Yes, all who seek the truth, will find the answer in death!"
Doug gets annoyed at this and says,"Let me show you what my answer to you is Andross, Sphere of Might!"
With that Doug quickly gathers energy and throws a powerful yellow sphere right in to Andross 's mouth, just as he closes it causing steam to blow out of his ears! However, to everyone's shock all this does is annoy Andross! Doug just shrugs and says,"Guess the ape was not a major threat to the Lylat System for nothing."
Andross then looks at the hero's before him as he says,"Strange, beings of your power, should not be able to stand before me. But, it matters not. For no matter how strong you are, you can not escape fate!"
With that he tries to clap his giant hands together with the aims of smashing his opponents in to pancakes only for the group to just manage to escape! As Doug lands back on the, transparent ground of energy he sees Andross snarl before Bacchus then says,"The power readings from him are intense, this will not be easy."
Samus charges up her beam cannon before she says,"No one said it would, but never the less I don't feel very much like dying!"
With that Samus uses her grappling beam on Andross 's right hand and flings her self up before blasting a super missile right at Andross 's eye! However the mad ape bats it away with his other hand before he says,"I told you, your powers can't save you! Time you get crushed for your insolence!"
With that Andross prepares to smash Samus with his right fist, only for Kazuki to appear in his path before he says,"Not on my watch! Sunlight Crasher!"
With that the Enji has his lance explode with power before he collides with his foe's fist, and unleashes enough power to repel the former ruler from Venom's attack and damage the fist! Andross just shakes his hand and says,"Insolent brat, resistance will just make the end even more painful! None of you will leave here alive!"
With that Andross exhales and releases a storm of asteroids that he previously sucked in at the Enji! However Eriza then charges at them as her armor changes shape to a larger fancier one with metal wings and another sword before she says,"Don't think that mere rocks are enough for us! Tenrin Circle Sword!"
With that Eriza has her energy explode before she waves her blades quickly, before she unleashes a storm of energy blades from the two swords that intercept the asteroids and destroy every one of them, and even have a few left over to blast at Andross's face! This infuriates the villain as he says,"Damn you pests! You're just making me angry!"
He then points his right hand at the red haired Enji that injured him before energy forms in his index finger and he says,"This won't stand! I'll turn you in to, RAH!"
All of a sudden he feels a burst of pain in his finger before he sees Yu in front of the hand with his kantana drawn and glowing before he says,"Your right Andross, interfering with are mission will not stand at the slightest! Third Illusion Style, Forbidden Slash!"
With this the Enji has his blade glow before he unleashes a powerful blast to slice right at Andross's right hand, and slice it in two! Andross 's floating head snarls as he says,"No, I can not, tolerate this! Your defiance, ill chew it right in to pieces!"
With that Andross shocks Yu by charging right at him faster then expected, and tries to eat him! However Libra then flash steps in front of his fellow warrior of light and has his energy explode before he says,"You may not be able to tolerate are power Andross, but you have no choice! For we will bring the truth to this nightmare and bring justice at last! Lushun One Hundred Golden Dragons!"
With that the Enji Captain clutches both of his hands, before he releases a dozen golden dragons of pure energy from his like wise golden armor, and barrage the un expecting Andross, consuming him in a barrage of explosions! As everyone hears there major road block scream in hopefully agony Doug grins and says,"
Oh yea, get with the times Doctor Zaius! You may have been a real pain years back but now just being a giant pair of hands is no sweat! Wait, is he riding a kind of mech or is that is real body up there? Whatever, looks like he just got deep, huh? Damn it, jumped the gun again."
Everyone then sees the smoke from the explosion and sees Andros is still indeed alive, however his right eye and face look like a robotic skull! As Andross roars again in pain Doug then says,"Wait, Andross was a robot this whole time?"
Bacchus responds with,"No, and that means this is not the real Andross! This must have been one of his machines, imprinted with his personality and even a trace of his soul! Someone must have found it the depths of Venom or one of his other labs! But, who would do such a thing?"
Doug curses as he forms ideas in his mind and says,"I might know a few, but for now lets just clean up this trash! "
Andross, or at least the robotic bio-weapon under the illusion that its Andross has its eyes glow redder before it snarls and says,"No, no one can leave, no one will escape! "
With that Andross yells even louder before, as he opens his mouth all the way, and his robotic hinges drop so that his mouth widens even larger! Doug covers his ears from the noise his foe is emitting before he says,"Give it up Andross, you can yell all you want, but pouting louder and louder won't do you any good! Huh, whoa!"
Doug sees that Andross is not just yelling but trying to suck in his opponents and the Lylat ships with one massive gulp! As Doug feels him sucked in instantly he then says,"Damn it, this pull is worse then when I was at the beach!"
Bacchus nods and says,"He seems to be unleashing a powerful gravitational force to suck us all in and finish this!"
Doug groans and says,"I can see that, but how do we stop us from being monkey chow?"
Samus aims her cannon at Andross 's mouth as she says,"What do you think? Blow him up fast! Ah"
Andross just laughs as the force he is unleashing is so much that the Enji and the others can barley resist, let along get a attack off before he then says,"Its to late, it's the end of the line for you interlopers! Now, pay the price for, GUH!"
All of a sudden a pair of red orbs head in to his mouth, and cause powerful explosions that damage Andross's mouth and blast chucks of him away! Everyone then sees who did that as they see two Arwings fly past the heroes, and they are none other then Fox and Falco!
Falco snickers as he sees Andross scream in pain before he says,"Man, after all of this time you think a monkey as smart as him would learn new tricks! But time to show this ghost it's not going to get its way with just a few upgrades! "
Fox sighs as he says,"This is serious Falco! We have to end this now before the situation gets any more chaotic! "
Andross then spots Fox fly by in his machine, before his eyes widen, and sparks break out of the mechanical brain on his head before he says," You, your, Fox, Mccloud! Fox, STAR FOX!"
With that Falco sighs and says,"Great, now he remembers us!"
Andross just clutches his remaining fist before he says,"Fox, I won't fail, till I kill you Fox! You won't leave with the truth, you will not leave here alive, you won't leave here at, GUH!"
With this he is smashed in the head by a angry Doug who shows he had refused to listen any longer and in a burst of speed smash Andross 's head in with his powered up fist! Doug's skin is bright red and he is at full power as he says," The hell with this! We are leaving and wither you're an angry ghost machine or a zombie tool you can't stop us!"
Andross glares at Doug and says,"You can't change fate stupid man! "
He instantly tries to smash Doug with his fist before Doug gets annoyed, and has his power explode and his muscles bulge before he then says,"Like hell I can't Andross! Ill show you just what I can do with my willpower and strength!
Final Shoryuken Heaven!"
With that Doug smashes in to the incoming fist so hard that he shatters the entire massive object in to dust with the blow! As Andross roars in pain Bacchus then has his chest glow before he then says,"
Now everyone, while he is weaken attack to finish this now! Aim for the brain, Termination!"
With that the android fires a massive red energy beam from his chest, just as Samus unleashes her hyper beam, Fox and Falco fire a barrage of hyper lasers, and the other Enji unleashes there most powerful projectile attacks as well! This barrage of power is to much for Andross, and as his body is consumed with energy he then says,"
RAH! Damn, you all! No, I, can' be denied! Fox, you can't, stop, the ultimate power! You, all of you will see how, futile it, GUHHH!"
With that Andross's entire body is disintegrated in a massive explosion before Samus sighs and says," Well, that's the end of that."
Fox sighs as he maneuvers the Arwing to return to the Great Fox before he sighs and says,"Well, that's one nightmare that I was hoping not to revisit."
Meanwhile Bacchus just wipes off some space dust and says,"Well then, I suppose the fact that such a, unexpected trap seems to have been left for us shows that the information we have is crucial indeed. "
Doug, knowing far more then his comrades just nods and says,"Got that right, guess this is the jackpot all right."
The other Enji then walk up to them before Eriza then says, "Well, after this we must make sure we return safely. I would say it would be a good idea to return to Corneria on a different path, just in case. Oh?"
Everyone then sees the area beginning to return to normal space in appearance before Yu sighs and says,"
Well, it might be a good idea to return back to the ship before we run out of air and die or nothing will get done."
Libra chuckles nervously and says,"Good idea Yu. All right everyone, hopefully the mission is now truly completed, but for now lest return on the double!"
With that everyone heads back for the Great Fox and once they are in the hanger bay door closes and the ship once more blasts in to hyper space. As everyone returns to the command deck Kazuki sees Doug looking agitated as he says,"Something the matter Doug?"
The blond Enji looks up and chuckles darkly before he then says," Its nothing man, just this day is full of things that make me want to punch someone."
His fellow Enji laughs as he says," Ah, same here man. But, that's what we are here for right? To make sure that this kind of stuff never gets repeated! Still, to think this is all thanks to that nut Andross? Well, guess only someone as messed up as him could be behind something as cruel as a project that would cause a civil war!
All right, I am going to get a snack, later Doug!" With that Doug waves before he sees the more positive Enji leave before making sure no one is looking at him and taking Alfred's diary out again, and looking at the page from before after looking at it, and still seeing Brad's name before he gets annoyed and says,"
To bad the real possible mastermind behind this could not be what anyone expects, since its so freaking up surd even I can't take it seriously! But, still, I seen in the last few months when you don't take the unexpected seriously, you get owned before you can blink. God damn it, Brad Fowltror, what the hell are you really?
I better play this right from all sides, because once things go down, there is no going back and one screw up will send more then a few heads rolling! Seriously, I hate how answers just get more questions!
But, if its to get a real end to all of this unneeded drama then its worth the cost. Well, for now I think ill keep this to myself so far. No doubt Ben will instantly go to assassin mode if he reads this, and I doubt the Enji Masters will be able to deal this right, they just don't get Brad.
Hell, even I don't really get him. Though the was just a thuggish simpleton at first, but no matter how much Ben Ezan and the others would hate to admit it, the man knows how to play the filed. And, if this guy really is as good at playing a strong poker face, then it's going to take a even better hand to take him down with the least amount of damage! Well, better think this one through, hard."
With that Doug goes back to his room on the ship to go do that thinking, and we now leave him, and once more move things along a few days to just as the Enji return! The scene is now the docking bay of Hallowed Bastion just as the group are stepping foot on the holy castle. As Doug lands he sees James, Ansem and Grand Master Myers are waiting for them and he just chuckles as he says,"
Guess everyone wants to hear the big news. "With that Master Myers at once goes up and says,"Welcome back everyone, I am glad you are all back safely, especially after all of the disturbing news I heard." Libra nods and says,"
Oh, we got more then a few surprises waiting for us Grand Master, lucky we were able to overcome them. Now at least, some more light could be shined on this whole nightmare."
Ansem nods and says," I thank you all for your hard work. I admit, I never would have expected that among everything the Juggernaught Project would have links to Andross. But, what I want to know out of everything is, do we know what truly caused the lab to explode yet?"
Bacchus sighs and says," I apologize everyone, but we don't yet have an answer. The lab's reports don't go to that day, Alfred himself did not know the cause, and no other file seems to indicate there was an intent for some sort of big development that could have caused it. There are still a few cryptic files, so we still might have something."
Myers nods and says," Like I say often, as long as a ray of hope exists, there is still something worth presuming. Regardless of what is left to be found, you all did a splendid job."
Doug grins and says,"Well, I only intend to do my job the best way so glad I did it right. So, what's going on here?"
James responds with,"Oh not much, Ben Ezan and everyone are just getting ready for the Enji Budokai. Thankfully while the Zannacross empires attacks have not ceased, they have been manageable so everyone can keep them at bay. Although we have, huh?"
Doug just interrupt him with a chuckle and says,"Good to hear it. Now then, sorry to jet, but I need to use the can and check up on a few things so is it all right if I give a full report later Grand Master?"
Myers sighs and says,"I suppose there is no reason not to. Go ahead Doug." With that Doug nods and says," Thanks, see yah later guys."
With that Doug moves out of the area quickly and James sees his teammate leave before he then raises a eyebrow and says,"That's odd, having to go to the bathroom is not usually something that would stress Doug, even in the most long term case. "
Myers nods as he says,"I must admit something seemed off about Doug James. And, it's not like is usual change of behavior to a more bitter tone, it felt, tense, tenser then I ever felt from him. Did, anything happen to Doug during the mission anyone?"
Samus shrugs and says,"Not much, he was disgusted at how crazy a home Alfred had, and was shocked to see Andross 's hand in the project but we all are so I doubt that was it."
Eriza then crosses her arms and says,"However, I do recall after we defeated Andross Doug seemed more withdrawn, he did not even attempt to snap back at are statements like before. I may not know Doug very well, but even I could sense something was off."
Myers chuckles and says," If you could tell Miss Scarlet, then something must indeed be amidst in his mind. It could just be the inner conflict he has been going through the past few months, or it could be something that we should know.
However, for now at the least, it would seem Doug must confront his issues before we can. For now though, if some of you could come with me to the Lylat Castle, I would be grateful for it since King Atem and head of intelligence Daniel Carrington along with Nick Fury would very much like to see this data in person to resolve many issues with the members of the Lylat Senate."
Bacchus nods and says," It will be my honor Grand Master."
With that the robotic man takes off and as the other Enji leave James then goes to Samus and says,"So Samus, on to your next job?"
The bounty hunter chuckles and says," Not just yet James. I am going to stick around to see how this Enji Budokai goes down. I am not usually a fan of sport events, and I am not entering it myself since I can get more reliable pay.
However, something tells me I don't want to miss this event. Oh?"
She sees a flash of light coming from a nearby mountain and James just chuckles and says,"I think it's safe to say your hunch is going to be current Samus. For at the very least, I don't think I have to predict the future to say that several lives just might be decided by the outcome of this tournament.
I just hope, that whatever comes out of the Enji Budokai, Ben and Doug are able to come out of it with their lives, and there friendships intact. Doug, I don't know what's going on, but you better know what you're doing if you intend to do it on your own."
With that James goes off to meet Master Gerard to go over something of minor importance.
However, for now we leave James to see just what Doug is up to and if it's of minor or major importance! And with that the scene now changes to the great lake next to the Enji base where Doug has just reached the edge of the land. Looking around he just sighs and taps a pebble with his foot across the entire area of the water before he then says,"Hey, Gouken! If your still here show yourself! Don't fool me, I know you like having a lakeside drink at dinner time!"
With that Doug's hunch about his master his correct, as he instantly hears a chuckle before he then says,"So, you do remember the way of your former master any idiot?"
With that Doug does not even flinch as Gouken lands out of a nearby tree and lands on one foot with a bottle of his favorite whine in one hand and his dinner, a large hot dog in the other before he looks annoyed and says,"What, come begging to learn what you foolishly passed up?"
Doug chuckles nervously as he says,"Well, kind of. In fact, if your still ready to go for that final phase of my skills thing I am all for it."
This shocks Gouken he nearly gets off balance and just about falls over before he looks at Doug and says,"
What, really? Your, just admitting you screwed up? That's, never happened, ever. "
Doug shrugs and says," I am man enough to know when I have to face the facts. And the facts are that I need that last part of your training to get what I need to get done."
Gouken then eyes Doug and then says,"All right, no more jokes Doug, what the hell is going on with you? I hear your best friend punched you out cold because you made him angry enough, and you're being difficult with everyone! What makes you think you know better then everyone all of a sudden? My teachings are great without a doubt, but not enough to make one more enlightened then his peers!"
Doug moans and clutches his fist as he then says,"Why can't anyone get it! It's not that I all of a sudden think I am better then everyone damn it! I know I am nothing special Gouken! I don't see my self as the guy who knows all about everything or the guy who will change social order!
It's just that I just seen very clearly by now how things really work, and that so many of the Enji like Ben can't get it, and are just going to screw up because they are making choices based on their wishes and not on the facts!
Reality may not be pretty, and it may not be what most people want but the sad fact is that reality is the only world most of us can live in and not getting that through their heads is just going to make things worse not better! But since no one can expect that, then they are just asking for more pain damn it! "
Gouken rubs his chin as he then says,"What you say is true Doug. But, you can't just force your opinion down others and expect it to be expected, surely you realize that it takes time for people to expect others views especially when it goes against what they believe in, I taught you that much for sure ! Oh?"
He then sees Doug clutch his fist so hard that blood comes out before he then says,"I know that Gouken, but there is no time for people to "adjust"! If people can't get real fast, then it's going to be one real mess!"
Gouken then narrows his eyes and says," Doug, just what is it that is bothering you? The fact that you're at such unease shows just how sever the situation must be. Tell me, what is this situation? Is it the agents of the Zannacross Empire?"
Doug looks conflicted as he says," Sorry old man, but I can't tell you. Its, a inside job to say the least."
Gouken responds with,"Bah, so it's a traitor? Please Doug, how little faith do you have in your comrades? If your word is true, and you have the evidence to back up your words then you have nothing to hide! Do you really have so little trust in me or anyone? Oh?"
He then sees Doug looking serious as he says," It's not about trust, it's about who may or may not be watching Gouken! All I can tell you, is that this thing is as delicate as a glass jar on a wire!
IF just one thing goes wrong, things can blow up so badly that everything can go to pieces. I, I have to do this my way, even if it's just me thinking so I know I have to do this like it for now, so would you please just trust me on this Gouken?"
Gouken stares intently at Doug, and his former student stares back before he sees the seriousness in Doug's eyes and just closes his eyes and says,"Well, I do trust you Doug, and you did say please. So, I'll take your word on two conditions. One,
you promise me your not just making something up and two, you finish the training and fight with passion with every intention in the Enji Budokai to win regardless of who is your opponent!
Doug, your will and your talent are bout remarkable, its why I made you my freaking student in the first place !But, your true power is held back because of your own mindset! You have to stop doing, and caring about things in slothful manner Doug!
If you truly want to succeed in anything, you have no choice but to risk failing, and pour all of your heart and soul in to your devotion! So Doug, are you going to put everything in to what you have to do or not?"
Doug chuckles and says," All right Gouken, you got a deal!"
Gouken pats Doug on the back and says," Now that's the man who use to be my best student! All right, there is not much time before the Enji Budokai so we will have to commence with the final phase of your training at once. You, not doing anything major before the Enji Budokai right? "
Doug shrugs and says," Not, really, why?"
Gouken laughs loudly as he says ,"Because you're going to need nearly all of that time to get this done. My best estimate, is that it will take around twenty five hours to complete the ritual."
Doug chuckles and says," Wait, are you serious? Twenty Five hours, straight? Your, kidding right?"
Gouken responds with," No, I am absolutely serious Doug. The ultimate Shotokan ritual of the latent capacities takes time to pull off. All the while the body must be completely still and the mind must be absolutely calm! This is likely going to be your hardest task ever Doug, for you must be nearly utterly still for more than two days. Can you handle it?"
Doug sighs and says,"That's it? Please, I am a expert at keeping stuff out of my mind when I have to and I went without sleep for days and still fought in missions!"
Gouken nods and says,"All right, just remember that this is not a joke. All right, if you want to get anything out of your system like use the bathroom or something then might as well do it now."
Doug sighs and says,"Well, I am a little jittery, mine if I get out some steam?"
Gouken shrugs and says,"As long as it's not on me then sure."
With that Doug takes a deep breath before he clutches his fist and jumps up high in the air before his energy explodes and he says," Damn it!"
With that he dives right in to the center of the lake, and blasts right to the bottom to hit the bottom of the lake so hard that all of the water is blasted up! As the water falls down and Doug slowly walks up he just looks at Gouken and wipes his hair back before chuckling and says,"Thanks, I needed to cool off before we did this."
Gouken then sees the water falling back in to the crater Doug made with his fist and smirks before he says," Doug, your strength has truly grown tremendously since you left to join the Enji, and it's even gotten greater then when you last left me!
All you truly need, is to calm your mind, and let your feelings be felt by your fists! Then, you might truly be able to understand the feelings of your comrades, and even your enemies!"
Doug shrugs and says,"I don't know man, it's going to be a pain if everyone is so stubborn."
Gouken chuckles and says,"Why do you think people would just discard their dreams and hopes so easley Doug?"
Doug's sighs and responds with," Because even if it's important to them, if it's just going to ruin their life trying to make it come true, then it's pointless, dead freaking weight! Me, I gave up on a lot of dreams, like my family ever getting back together, or Maria coming around, because I rather be happy in the present then waste time thinking about the past or whishing about the future. Because in the end, what is real, is all that you got!"
Gouken chuckles and says,"Wise words Doug, and you're not wrong to say them. However, you must understand, some need dreams to believe in more than others, to make their present tolerable. And even if you think their dreams will forever remain a fantasy, it does not mean it is to be so Doug!
Remember, those with a will of fire can make the impossible possible! Now enough, think about what I say as you go through the training, because if you want to be ready by the Enji Budokai we must start now! Now first, sit down, er, right about there."
Gouken points to a large rock to the right and Doug does as told before he sits cross legged on it and says,"Ok, now what, huh?"
Gouken then has his muscles bulge before his own energy aura blast out before he then says,"This is your last chance to back out, are you ready Doug Fitter!"
Doug nods and says,"I was born ready, let's do this!"
With that Gouken then yells out loud before he then charges at Doug and says,"All right, then let's begin! Take, THIS!"
With that Gouken charges right at Doug, and is right at Doug's face before he then is about to attack Doug, till he stops at the last second, and then goes to do some sort of Congo dance, and dances around! Doug takes all of his might to resist laughing as he then says," Old man, you gone senile have you? Don't waste my time with your, guh!"
Gouken then smashes Doug on the head and says,"Silence! Now I have to start over! It may look freakish but this is the ritual! No matter what, you WILL stand here and you WILL like it! And trust me Doug, when it's over you will love it!Are you in this to win or not Doug?
"Doug sighs and says," And here I thought you went crazy before I left last time Gouken. All right, you better not be making a video on this. I may not know if I can win for sure, but I sure as well will do what I need to do no matter what is in my way. Lets go ."
Gouken then clears his throat and says," All right, take two!"
With that Gouken resumes his dance before Doug just struggles to stay still and says to himself,"
Oh man, if Gouken is just playing me then he might have managed to out troll me as well. But, I guess I don't have a choice. It's time to show what I got to everyone! Ben, I know how badly you want your dream to come true about Lacus man, but, if you're going to let your feelings blind you to the truth, you're in for a world of hurt.
Even if you were strong enough to defeat Kira, Sephiroth, and Genesis all at once, Brad's still going to be one royal pain to take down. And that's because, he knows how to play you and hurt you where it hurts the most. Thankfully, he still thinks I play his game. You wish Brad, we may have things in common but no matter what I don't ditch my friends for anything!
Hah, and if I can pull this off, soon your face is going to be like those punks I had to pretend to be best friends with. Haha, I may have agreed to let them in, but it does not mean I did not have to tell the local law lovers I heard something was going down to!
Oh man, if only I could see their faces. Oh well, time to stomach this so I can show everyone just how serious I can really be! Gouken is right, I have no choice but to throw everything I have in to getting this done right. Because, I found something I really am passionate about with all my heart, and that's making sure my friends and the good times survive! And I don't care what I have to do or who's bad side I get on, I will get it done!
"With that Doug then goes to think about his plans as he tries not to let Gouken 's strange test get to him.
Meanwhile, we now leave him, to see just what he did do to the people he promised Brad he would let in! And for this we now change the scene to the outskirts of Neo Arcadia near the Under Sector, to see the shuttle with Brad's boy's just finishing landing! The thugs instantly get out of the shuttle and the leader of the group , a bald man with a bulls eye on his head, called Bullseye laughs loudly as he says,"Oh yah boys, we are in! Time to rack up the cash!"
His larger teammate, a muscular man with blonde haired in the shape of a Mohawk named Birdie chuckles and says,"I can't believe we passed through the barrier without even a check point, I thought we would have to get a little rough on them to get in but it's even easier than I thought!"
Bullseye nods and says," That's because even if the security has been beefed up, it does not mean they don't got people who can't be bought. Everyone has a price, and the Killer Ace told us that he bribed a Enji to let us past!"
Birdie laughs and says,"Hah, even the Enji Knights can't outwit are boss! HE is the man! All right, and now it's time to party! Huh?"
All of a sudden a light shines down on their ship before a stern male voice then says,"Sorry boys, this zone is not registered for a party!"
Everyone then looks freaked out as the leader of the thugs then says,"What the hell, who is that? NO!
HE and the others then see a bunch of Lylat soldiers aiming their guns at them all, and in front of them is a large one with a bit of yellow hair, wearing a yellow mustache, and brass knuckles on his hands!
Birdie then says,"No way, we got spotted? Impossible! Who is this joker? "
The tall Lylat officer then says," Know your manners scoundrel! I am Alex Louis Armstrong, the Strong Arm soldier of the Lylat Army! And in the name of the Armstrong family your all under arrest for illegal trafficking of numerous materializes!"
Bullseye suddenly mutters,"No, was this all a set up? Why, would Killer Ace set us up like this?"
Armstrong then says,"I don't know your leaders intentions, but they were clearly folly if you thought you would get out of this!"
With this Birdie takes out a hooked chain and throws it around as he says,"Screw you copper! I am not afraid at taking you guys down! Your nothing to me!"
Armstrong then clutches his fist as he says,"I am afraid I can't afford to humor you. All of you are under arrest and ill end this before any one has to die senselessly!"
With this Armstrong punches the ground, and all of a sudden the metal ground beneath all of the thugs glow before Birdie looks down and says," What the hell is, GUH!"
Metal fists have instantly blasted up thanks to the unique magic Armstrong posses and hits everyone of the gang members so hard they are knocked unconscious before they hit the ground! Armstrong's subnorates private Broth laughs and says,"Great work colonel, you solved this crises instantly!"
Armstrong just folds his arms and says,"Just doing my job. Now, detain theses criminals and search there transport to make sure we detain all that they carried."
As the soldiers salute and do as he says Armstrong sighs and says,"That's the fifth group of thugs today, and we only catches them in time thanks to a unanimous tip. The underworld is exploding in their movements, even though the reports are that most of the major crime lords died in the Dark Tekken Gauntlet.
This, is not a good sigh, I just hope we are able to find out what is truly going on before it's too late. Well, I have trust that the Enji Knights will be to rise to the occasion, they have done so time and again, and now is no different."
With that Armstrong goes to round up and send the rest of the thugs to jail. However now we leave this scene, to see just how the Enji are preparing, and to be more precise, we now turn to Ben's rival Ezan! The super elite warrior has been going through as severe as training as Ben has been going through and to see how so we now turn to his whereabouts, which seems to be in the Enji Castles hologram training room in a setting custom designed by Ezan himself!
We see Ezan is now standing on a tall black building amidst a rainstorm, with a black blindfold covering his eyes! The area is in fact a replica of where Riku and Roxas fought at the end of Kingdom Hearts days, and Ezan is merely taking out his Nu Epyon blade before leaping down the skyscraper! Instantly a barrage of energy blasts shoot out at him, but even while being blindfolded Ezan counters every attack with ease!
Ezan at once lands on the ground, and continues to block the incoming slashes of ninja like warriors that come to strike at him before then slashing all of the incoming foes without missing a beat!
A shadowy demonic monster that looks like the demon Blackheart from the Marvel Comics, or at least how he looked like in the VS games then rises out of the ground behind him, and fires a blast of energy from its hands, only for Ezan to sigh and casually bat his red kantana around to absorb the blast before he says,"To slow, this is far too slow to prepare me accurately! Oh well, Backlash Mirror Force Flare!"
With that Ezan at once fires a powerful purple energy blast to destroy the demon before he then sighs and says," Oh, and what are you doing slipping in unannounced?" All of a sudden he hears none other than Ansem chuckle before he then says,"My, and to think during all the commotion I could observe in secret. Your senses are truly that of a master if you could feel my presence when I was hiding it, and your eyes were blind. Still, I am curious, did you always train blindfolded? "
With that Ansem walks out of the hologram of the building behind Ezan before the sliver haired warrior smirks and says,"No, it's a idea that popped in to my head, that is all. "
Ansem chuckles and says,"I see. I realize the uses of honing your other senses, but I still fall to see the need for it."
Ezan sighs as he takes it off and says," It's so my eyes could not lie, and my sight would be set on my ultimate goal. "
Ansem looks amused as he says,"Is that so? And, who are you trying to fool Ezan?"
Ezan takes the blindfold off and says,"Myself. No matter what obstacles come my way, I must be resolute , and let nothing stop me from completing my mission! My last mission, made that clear."
Ansem sighs and looks dismayed as he says,"No doubt you're talking about Garma correct? Ezan, I am sorry that things between you and the man who raised you as his father had to end in such a horrible manner. There were reports that he had escaped yes, but they were not conformed. Still, I should have told you, I am sorry."
Ezan is emotionless as he says,"Sorry, for what father? Its, it was Kaiba 's fault, for being such a pathetic fool to the very end. HE had more than enough chances to surrender, but he threw it all away over his demented pride."
Ansem closes his eyes and says,"Yes, it seems in the end Garma Kaiba 's twisted obsessions consumed him and made him go far beyond the point of salvation. Still, I am truly sorry you were the one who brought him to his final destiny Ezan.
I know that despite everything that has happened, he still was the man who raised you for so long so don't be ashamed to feel regret for killing the man you knew as your father for so long."
Ezan chuckles and says,"Regret, what for? I am a soldier, an Enji Knight. It's my duty to protect the innocent and destroy all who are a threat to the mission, regardless of the situation! I have no regrets, to take down scum like him for I would have had a bigger regret if I let foolish emotions let things, huh?"
All of a sudden Ansem puts his arm on Ezan and smiles warmly as he says,"Ezan, you don't have to be ashamed to admit you have emotions. After all, even the perfect warrior has a heart. I know Garma raised you to be a cold killer, but you don't have to be ashamed to admit regrets with me, I am your real father after all, and I do intend to try and be a decent one."
Ezan sighs as he says," Father, thanks for the effort. I suppose we are, both new to this. Still, really I am over it, since the matter is indeed over once and for all. All I am focusing on now is the future."
Ansem nods and says," I see. So, I suppose a fair guess would be that the future on your mind, is the Enji Budokai and a rematch with Ben Auro?"
Ezan grins as he puts his sword away and says,"I suppose it's not hard to guess that. Yes, I am preparing to fight Ben Auro , and win. How odd, when I first saw him, he was nothing to me. Even when he welded the Star Sword, he just seemed like a upstart who got lucky.
However, by now, I have to admit, he has surpassed even my expectations, and is indeed worthy of being my rival. That's why I anticipate are decisive battle not out of hate, but out of a desire to prove who is truly the best! And despite Ben's progress, I will make sure it will be I who is seen as the greatest warrior!
Ben's skill and power has without a doubt progressed immensely since we last fought. However, there is a key difference between us that still divides us, and it's are state of mind. Ben's to easily controlled by his emotions, and while at times it's his greatest strength, it can also be his greatest weakness. I don't intend to exploit them, but I won't be foolish like last time and neglect to take them in to account."
Ansem nods and says,"Without a doubt, it's arguable that Ben Auro has one of the most stressful lives of a hero in all of our history.
No doubt the responsibility of the survival of the entire universe is no light burden, not to mention the stress of the fate of his mother, and that disastrous situation between Lacus and Brad Fowltror can't be helping his state of mind."
Ezan clutches his fist and says,"I admit the fact that Brad has so greatly corrupted Lacus disgusts me as well, but Ben has no choice but to focus on his duty if he wants to do his job right. Ben must realize that he has a duty to perform and that he must be prepared to put his feelings and personal desires aside if he wants to get it done. For if his heart is not up to the task, everyone will suffer and he will fall before me!"
Ansem just chuckles and says," Well, there is no doubt how strong your resolve is Ezan, but just don't expect Ben to falter. True, he may let his emotions sway him, but he also uses that desire to protect what is important to him and the pain from the stress to boost his will.
I am not sure how a battle between you two would end to be honest Ezan, but just be ready to give it everything you have. But, enough of that for now. I know you want to be absolutely prepared for the Enji Budokai Ezan, but, that does not mean you have to do it at an empty stomach yes? To make up for being busy the last week, how about I have one of those father son dinners?"
Ezan shrugs and says,"You don't have to be sorry for doing your duty, fixing the planets that use to be part of the Zeon Federation after Weil so badly mangled it is a massive task. But, I expect your offer. "
With that Ansem and Ezan leave the area to go to that dinner. But as we leave Ben's rival, it's time we check back on Ben himself to see if Ezan and Doug's assumptions about his emotions are correct! And with that we now set the stage to where Ben is, which is in fact at the moment relating to something that is causing him stress, and it's the hospitable where his mother has been at since she fell in to the coma!
The message that Moz got at the start of today's chapter was in fact a message from Ben's father telling him to meet him! And thus Ben, after recovering from his training, at once went to the hospitable to meet his father!
And that's why the scene is now Ben entering the room where his mother is, as he sees his father drinking caffeine on the chair at the end of the room and a doctor with wide black hair and a black skinned bald surgeon are in the room before Ben's dad sees Ben and says,"Ben, so, you got my message after all huh? And here I thought you were just not listing to your old man again!"
Ben just smiles and says,"Hey dad. Sorry, had to clear it with a few people and get things done before I could come, but, I came as soon as I could. What, was so urgent that you could not call me directly? Did, something happen to mom?"
Ben sees his dad sigh before he says,"Well, sorry to get your hopes up but if you came here expecting mom to be up, then sadly that's not the case. But, something did happen Ben, I swear. She, mumbled, and moved in her sleep, er, comma."
Ben turns to his mother, and still sees her motionless before he says,"Really? When?"
Ben's dad responds with,"It was, right when I got here today. After I talked to her, I swear I heard her mumble! The doctors saw it to, right?"
The doctor then clears his throat and says,"Well, my back was turned at the moment, but I did hear, something."
The surgeon then says,"JD, that was the same time I was trying to spook you remember? Are you sure that was not me you all heard?"
The doctor groans and says,"Not now Turk, I am trying to calm these guys! Any way mister Auro, it's not clear if your wife and mother has made any progress. Her, condition has remained the same since she has entered. I am sorry, but, if you want my official opinion, I don't see her coming back unless a miracle happens."
Ben at once gets dismayed as he says," What, you're telling me to just give up, and let my mother die! Never, I would never give up on my own mother like that!"
The doctor JD nods and says,"I understand you have a strong attachment to your mother, but, do you really want her to keep suffering? Sometimes, it's easier to, OW!"
All of a sudden someone grabs JD and the Surgeon named Turk by the ears before Ben sees a tall man with orange curly hair looking annoyed as he says,"Nancy! What did I tell you about deciding the fate of your patients for their families? In case you forgot Dorian, it's that it's never up to you when to call it quits!"
JD then moans and says,"But, Doctor Cox, it's our job to give family are prognoses right? I mean, if it ends there suffering, AH!"
The man named Cox then says,"How long are you going to be here till you're not a idiot rookie JD? No matter what the verdict truly is it's up to the family before it's up to use to make the final call! Besides, King Atem himself is covering this patients tabs, so they can keep her hear for as long as they like if that's what they want. Well, we will leave you two to yourselves, come on ladies!"
With that the doctors leave, before Ben just sighs and says,"It's like, they don't even think of mom, as a person anymore. Damn it, I refuse, to give up on her! There has to be something I can do, to get her to awaken again!"
Ben's dad then gets upset and says," Damn it Ben, you're the chosen one, can't you or your friends use some spiffy machine or super magic spell to heal her?"
Ben then says,"I told you before dad, I would have done it instantly if that was the case. But, because it's a injury to her mind, not her body, it seems there is nothing we can do."
Ben's dad gets furious as he says,"Damn it son, this is no time to be secretive! It's important to be loyal to your cause, and to your friends, but family comes first, no matter what! Don't you care about your mother?"
Ben then trembles with anger as he says,"Don't you think I would have done something if I could? You think I like being powerless to help my own mother? Huh?"
Ben sees his dad sigh and sit down before he then says,"I am sorry Ben, I know full well how much you love your mother. I guess, we are both frustrated."
Ben nods and says," Well, that's a understatement. I, am sorry for being mad to dad. I know, you were just trying to help. I guess, I just am so frustrated lately. I am suppose to be the one who saves the universe yet I fail again and again to let down the people who matter the most to me! I, want to help them, I want to save mom no matter what. But, I just don't know what to do! "
All of a sudden he hears a man chuckle before the man says,"I know what you can do kid."
Ben turns around and sees a janitor looking smug before Ben raises a eyebrow and says," Um, do I know you?"
The janitor snickers as he says,"Nah but I know you kid, you're the hero of hero's, the Enji Knights poster boy Ben Auro right? I think I have a answer to your little problem."
Ben just gets confused as he says,"Um, if it's a special potion your making, I think I'll pass. Hey wait, you, look like the janitor that use to work at Hallowed Bastion before you got fired! How did you get up here? Huh?"
All of a sudden the Janitor closes the door before he glows red and becomes a red skinned demon with glowing eyes! The "Janitor " laughs as he says," Yah that was a act, I am really the demon Mephisto kid, and I have a deal for you! You love your mother right? Then, I'll be able to bring her back using means beyond the limits of this dimension, for a price. All you have to do is exchange your memories of love and happiness! Come on, it will be a brand new day, a, GUH!"
He and Ben's dad is shocked as Ben instantly stabs Mephisto with the Star Sword and has his energy explode before he glares at the demon and says,"I'll pass. This sounds like something out of a badly written comic book, and no matter how desperate I am I would never be stupid enough to trust the likes of you!
Go back to making deals in hell scum!"
With that Ben's Star Sword shines before Mephisto screams in pain and says,"Wait, you're not suppose to act that quick! This was, RAHH!"
With that the demon shatters in to dust before Ben then puts his Star Sword away and says," Really, everyone just has to but in."
Ben's dad is just shocked and says," Um, what the hell just happened son?"
Ben chuckles and says,"Forget it, it's not worth thinking much about. Anyway, like I said, no matter what, I refuse to believe mom is a goner. I know she will come back, we just have to keep believing in her. She, believed in me after all, even if I failed her."
Ben's dad then says," Son, you never failed your mother. Mom, she always believed in you from day one, and no matter what happened in the news she always had faith you would not just survive, but win. I have to hand it to her, she may not have thought you would become the chosen one from day one but she knew you would make waves from the start. I guess, she really wanted you to succeed."
Ben looks at his dad and says,"Unlike you right? After all, you wanted me to just work under you, and follow your path to nowhere."
Ben's dad gets bitter as he says,"You really wanted to avoid being with the family that much?"
Ben instantly says," Without a doubt, in fact I think after you once told me if I was not careful I would fallow Uncle Jake's footsteps of living with grandma I was determined to become a hero! After all, so many members of are family, are just, nobodies that are not even married, and won't be remembered by history at all.
I rather take risks to reach my dreams, like grams and grand dad Lacan did. I always hated how so many times in middle and high school family situations kept holding me back from, many things I wanted so I swore I would not let them weigh me down any further before it was to late!"
Ben's dad snickers and says," Its just like your mother, your always comparing me to my father and your mothers father. Well, I guess they, did have better jobs and legacy's then mine. But, know this Ben, family, is all you got. No matter what you think of them, they will always be there for you.
I, just wanted you to all of this time expect how important it was. But, Ben, I know I was a little harsh on you, and you always blamed me for trying to crush your dreams and all that. But, it's not because I did not care, but because I did! I wanted you to be able to survive the cruel world that awaited you, and not just prep you up only to be crushed by how cruel reality could be. Even if you hated me, at least you would still be around to hate me. You do know I love you, right boy?"
Ben looks down and says," How stupid do you think I am? Of course I know you love me. Although at times I thought you were just trying to hold me back, and make me become what you wanted to be."
Ben's dad then turns around and looks out the window as he says,' Well, I guess I am not the best role model, unlike my own dad. I, know I let you down a lot Ben, and that I should have been a better example on what to do, instead of what not to do.
Still, sometimes things are to, just too damn hard to get done even when you really want to get it done! Sometimes no matter how hard they try they, huh?"
Ben pats his dad on the shoulder as he then says,"Don't worry dad, I get it so save the teary eyed sap speech ok? I can't say you're my number one hero or anything, but, I don't hate you for being who you are. I did at one time, but then I realized it was outside forces that shaped how things where and both of us were powerless to change that. However, I like to think that I am not as powerless as I use to be. I, don't know how dad, but, I will save mom, and all the other people that are precious to me. I promise I will!"
Ben then sees his dad pat him back as he says,"I know you will Ben, you're a hell of a lot more stubborn then I am after all. Besides, I seen the news, you're a hell of a lot stronger than I ever thought possible a human could ever be. Not like I could tell you want to do now even if I tried,but just remember a little of what your old man says, ok?"
Ben gives his dad a thumbs up as he says,"Sounds doable enough. Don't worry, for the sake of everyone that has suffered, and died through this war, I won't expect anything less than a total victory! And that's why, I should likely get going soon dad. I have to truly prepare, to win the upcoming Enji Budokai, settle a few scores, and prove once and for all, that I really can do this."
Ben's dad chuckles and says," Enji Budokai? I heard about that, some big event? Well, do what you can, and do it right! That's about all I can do for you now son. Oh yah, and good luck."
Ben nods and says," Thanks, I will dad. See yah! Mom, I, I will see you again, I promise!"
With that Ben quickly runs off before Ben's dad sighs and says,"Wait, I forgot to ask him if he had a ticket! Doh! Bah, whatever, I might as well watch it online anyway. Huh?"
Ben's dad then sees Moz float up in front of him before he then says,"Mister Auro, I think you should really go to the Enji Budokai in person, to show you have faith in him, and see him show everyone how passionate he is about making his dreams come true! Even if it's only a minor bit, you being there might help him in ways even he won't be able to realize! So please Mister Auro, think it over Kubo!"
With that Ben's dad chuckles nervously as he sees Moz leave and says,"Damn it, trying to make me feel guilty eh? Well, whatever. Guess, it would be nice if I can get Ben to look at me with a grateful eye for once."
He then looks at his wife and says,"How did it come to this anyway? When did are son, become a real hero? Well, just hope he is able to end this right, and can keep it together. I thought I was stressed, but Ben's eyes, were overloading with it. Guess, the kid really has a lot on his mind now a days."
With that Ben's dad shrugs and finishes sipping his coffee, but for now we leave him, to see just one of the issues that Ben is stressed on the most, and that is none other than Lacus!
And to go in to this issue in greater detail we now turn to Ben's old friend, who at the moment is having a family moment of her own! And to see what I mean the scene is Lacus entering the Masters chambers, where she has been called to come by both Master Myers and her father! Lacus, is more than a little tense at just what the summon is for as she is now alone and thinking to herself with," Father, what is it now? Have, you, have you Master Myers and the others all come together to lecture me on how foolish I am being?
Could, they have found out the truth, about what happened on Venom, and, whatever other world Brad was before we returned here? Are, you going to say your ashamed of me father, that I am a disgrace? If you think, that will get me to stop, your all fools. It's pointless now, nothing, nothing you all have to offer, can help me now. There is, no point trying to change what is unchangeable. So, what are you going to do to me?"
With that Lacus clutches her fist tightly, before she hears voices, and realizes people are all ready talking in the counsel room before she then hears her father say," I understand what you're saying, but are you sure this is the only solution?"
Lacus then hears Myers instantly responds with,"I know it may seem extreme Erich, but, at this point it might be are only option."
With that Lacus decides to see what is going on and creeps to the edge of the corner of the room before suppressing her magical energy and peeping out of the corner before she sees her father, Master Myers, Doctor Light, and many of the different Cid's in the order all around in a circle, looking at what seems to be a hologram of the Blue Eyes White Dragon! Lacus is alarmed as she sees Doctor Light stroke his beard and says,"It's a shame it's come to this, but it would seem we are quickly running out of options. That's why, we must make sure everything is in place. The Cid from Cecil's world strokes his beard and says,"
It's a shame its getting this bad Mr, Raystar. No offense but that kid of yours is growing out of control. "
Lacus sees her father look depressed and says,'I would like to deny it, but, I seen the footage. I, wanted to believe Lacus could do better than this, but, it seems, I expected to much of her, and just how much control that man had on her."
Myers sighs and says,"All of us underestimated Brad Fowltror Erich. However, unless things turn around soon we will have no choice but to gamble with this. I wish there was another way for Lacus, she has suffered through so much, and we should have been better at preventing this.
But alas things are the way they are and now all we can do is make sure things don't get worse no matter what. Too much is on the line to hesitate now."
Lacus then sees her father take a deep sigh and says,"I understand, everyone, do what you must." Lacus is horrified as she sees the other looking glum and she then thinks to herself,"No, I knew it, they, they want to kill me! They, just want to condemn me, and toss me away to avoid any more disgrace! I, I don't want to die, I won't let them kill me!"
With that in a flash Lacus instantly warps out of the area, and both Myers and Erich instantly move their heads to where Lacus was before Erich then says,"
Lacus? I, thought, I heard something." Myers quickly goes to where Lacus was last and sees nothing before he then says,
" Its, nothing Erich. It must be your feelings getting to you. I admit even I thought I sensed Lacus for a moment , but her energy is not anywhere near this area. How sad, it seems she choose to not listen to us once more. The situation is really getting out of control if she won't even come to us when we asked her."
Erich looks dismayed as he says," Lacus, if only she would realize this is all for the best, for the best for her and everyone! Doctor Light, your sure that this system you are working on, could extract the Blue Eyes White Dragon from her completely, all the while insuring she would survive? "
Doctor Light and the others in the room all nod before Megaman 's creator presses a button before another hologram besides the white dragon showing Lacus, and another showing some sort of fancy machine forms before he says," Rest assured Erich, we all spent countless hours, going over every detail of this. And united are minds to insure that not one flaw would be unlooked in to this."
The Cid from Zidane 's world then says,"Yes, we even tested the data, and it should work in theory. If we can extract the Blue Eyes White Dragon right from Lacus's DNA, it should be able to be taken out without killing her. The only flaw in are machine is that we can't seem to be able to isolate the magical energy of the dragon form inside her. For some reason, we are having more trouble isolating it then we thought. However, rest assured we won't stop till we do."
Erich nods and says,"I thank all of you. To give my daughter a world where she no longer has to fear being a monster, that's the best I can do. I, never wanted her to suffer so much, I sometimes feel like I failed her."
Myers responds with," Don't blame yourself Erich. You saved her from death that day, and at the time we all hoped it would make her stronger so she could confront her destiny. I don't think anyone would expect things to have become as bad as this. Still, that's what the situation is, and we must confront it to have things change."
Erich then puts his hands on his head and says,"True enough. Still, I fear that's only part of the problem. Even more so then the Blue Eyes White Dragon, the reports of what Brad has done recently is making him seem like even more of a monster! And the worst part is that his control over Lacus has become so tight, that I fear I have all ready lost her."
Myers responds with,"Don't despair, Lacus is strong, even now I believe in her, and that she can come out of this intact. What she truly needs now, is for her to see that there is a way out of the darkness. However, I agree with you on the manner of Brad Fowltror Erich. That man, he is truly surpassed how low I thought he could shrink. There is truly no hope for him, and so now we must move quickly to insure he does not drag Lacus or anyone else down with him!
One of the purposes of the Enji Budokai, is to one way or another expose Brad's true intentions, and conclude the manner one way or another. I fear it's going to be , a delicate situation to say the least. Still, one way or another, this must end, for I am starting to fear that Brad's control goes deeper then I first assumed. "Erich then closes his eyes and says,"
I suppose one way or another, this Enji Budokai will be the moment of truth. Lacus, please, remember who you truly are!"
With that Erich calms down and he, Master Myers, Doctor Light and the Cid group go over the details of their new machine. However, for now we turn to leave them to focus on the one who's suppose to be the use of the machine, Lacus herself once more! While not knowing the full story, thinking that her father and the others were ready to seal her away or something has consumed Lacus with even more despair!
And that's why Lacus is at the moment at the front gates of the Enji Castle sobbing hard as she says," I knew it, I knew it! They, they are all ashamed of me ! No matter, no matter how hard I tried, I could never be anything but a burden, but a disgrace to everyone! No matter what, they will always fear me, so what am I going to do? "
Lacus hears a cocky laugh before she hears none other than Brad say," What else doll? Show them something to REALLY fear!"
Brad then steps out of the pillar behind her, drinking a bottle of some sort before throwing it to the side and saying,"
What's wrong gal? Your little talk with daddy went bad eh? Am I right or what?"
Lacus sobs and says,"You were right Brad, about all of it! I heard them, before they could notice me, my father, Master Myers, they all wanted to seal me away! They just see me, as a monster, as a mutant freak they want erased forever!"
Brad then goes over and goes over and puts his arms around his girlfriend before he says,"What can I say doll? The winners are always hated by the weak because they want what we got! Told you it was just you and me babe! But we don't need anyone else, I have what it takes to make sure no one gets in are way ever again!"
Lacus then looks up at Brad and says,"But, what are you going to do Brad? Once the Enji, find out about what you really did at the Dark Tekken Gauntlet, and what you plan to do, they won't stop till it's over!"
Brad grins and says,"Well in that case we just have to make it all end, right Lacus? Don't worry about it, don't think about anything! Your man is going to make all of your fears and problems go away, just like I promised. After all, I steered you from the pain to the goal right?
It's going to be a little rough, but then, we will be on the top at last, and no one will ever be able to tell us what to do again! Just do what I say, and it's going to be ok."
Lacus then sobs and says,"Oh Brad, I, I know it will, because, in the end everything has become just like you would said it would. And no matter how painful it will be, I guess it really is the only way by now."
With that Brad hugs Lacus tighter, and then starts to grope her body as he thinks to himself,"
Of course it is Lacus, after all the unstoppable Juggernaught makes what he wants to happened happen with no questions asked! Haha, did those egg heads think they could run my fun? There little experiment will never be completed thanks to my little " contribution" insuring there data will never add up! No matter who tries what, it's too late, no one can take Lacus away from me!
And with this Enji Budokai, Benny boy, Kaiba, and everyone else is going to see that Brad the great is the strongest being around! And soon, the entire universe is going to have to get with the program and expect that Brad the great always gets what he wants, and those who can't expect it will just be made a example of to those that need to get the message! Oh yah, that's right, I always win, and no one is going to deny my big score, NOBODY! So, let the games begin suckers! ZHAHAHAHA!"
With that Brad begins to kiss Lacus as he drags her out of the castle, and as he does that and knocks over a pillar causally, that also knocks over the support for are chapter, which means shows over for now! Well, it's clear now, that the stage for the Enji Budokai is quite set! With the daunting information Doug has found from Alfred's diary, Brad's true nature might have been darker and deeper than anyone could have expected! Can Ben truly be prepared not only to win over his determined rivals, but to take down the true face of the dark truth that awaits him?
And just what does Doug intend to do, by keeping the truth of Brad being around on Irazos by himself? And just how will the other enemies of good react to this? Only one way to find out, so for the love of god don't miss the next chapter of Tales of the Cosmic Wars! Next time, it's time to see how everyone's preparations have paid off, for the Enji Budokai begins
! The first form of the Enji Budokai takes place as a massive battle royal on the massive multi part battle ground where all of the contestants must face off against each other to progress to the next phase! Ben, Ezan, Doug, and many more heroes' give it everything they got, and instantly many intense battles, like Mario VS Sonic, and many more brawls unfold! With Doug showing just what Gouken 's final test did to his skills and powers, and Ben, Ezan, Brad, and Lacus all showing how far they are willing to go to win, saying it's going to be one extreme fight is a understatement! So stay tuned to
Chapter 163: Explosion of power, the Enji Budokai begins!
Till then! Now, before we leave, I think we have quite a few authors notes to explain. First up, the character Kazuki is from the Manga and anime Buso Renkin. Its, not the easiest to find but the anime is on Fundamation channel. I would say read it up online...but thanks to the thing that made me RAGE at the start of my notes...that might be difficult. Yu Kande is from another good series D Gray man, which has the same results as Buso Renkin in accessibility. Armstrong is from the Full Metal Alchemist series, which I assume I don't have to tell you is from a anime, wait, I just did. Doh. Meanwhile Libra is from the anime and manga series Saint Seyia.
It's kind of a super old anime, but the newer one Last Canvas is quite fun and I would recommend watching or reading it, if you can find it. Eriza is from Fairy Tale, another great anime and manga series. Well, for that one at least the manga is out here in the US, and hopefully other places. I added all of them as Enji randomly because I thought it would be nice to show that the Enji have more than FF and Tales of characters' hahaha.
Also, JD, Turk, and Doctor Cox are also from the series Scrubs, which is not a anime but a funny series on, many channels. Also, if you're wondering why I fused Alfred's lair with that of Bioshock the game, mostly it was because I could hahaha. Ah, Resident Evil Code Veronica, it was my favorite of the Resident Evil games and to me was the last of the pure ones, before they sold out. My fondness for that game is why I gave such a cameo I suppose
. Lastly, that quick battle with Ben and Mephisto was suppose to be short since I based it to bash the One Day Event in Spider man, and show what a real hero, or one not being controlled by another idiot CEO sell out what would have done hahahah. Seriously, Spider Man, making a deal with the devil is not out of character Quesada?
Arg, executives, and there greedy selfish decisions make me so very, VERY angry. ARg, in any case I will leave it with that for now, because if you need me to tell me if Doug's major revelation won't be revealed then, you don't know me very well hahaha. With that, thanks for all the reviews, sorry for the wait but Volume three is back on track and not going off it till the end. So yes, thanks for all the reviews...hope to see more of them...for this chapter. And once more, those who missed chapters, please leave multi reviews.
Also, I don't mean to be pushy but, the upcoming arc is going to be quite important for the rest of Cosmic Wars, so if you could take the time to review the next chapters, I would be grateful. Well, with that, till next time. Sigh, looks like it's time to make sure people are aware its up again...Omnimon, do we need to remind people again? ( Sees tumble weed fly by.) I think we do. Oh well, till next time! ( summons the rest of the Royal Knight Digimon and forms a sword. Before warping in to the shadows.)
