Disclaimer: The King of Fighters is a property of Eolith and owned by SNK
(who are now known as SNK Playmore. Got it? Good!)
Ben Jonas presents:
The King of Fighters 2001 EX: Tournament Edition Chapter 2- It's Time To Shodown!
Location: SNK Stadium- Osaka, Japan Friday, 10:00am
Shawn Neo: Good morning, Japan (and the rest of the world)! It's a beautiful day here at SNK Stadium in Osaka, as we welcome you to what could very well be the greatest King Of Fighters tournament 2001 has ever seen.
Charles Geo: That's right, Shawn. Though that last statement was somewhat redundant, in all seriousness, this will certainly be the largest KOF tournament to date, clocking in at 64 fighters spread out over 16 different teams. And speaking of size, this tournament will also being making use of no less than twelve different themed stages (not counting our very own SNK Stadium) in order to accommodate the individual matches of the preliminary and second rounds. How is all this possible, you ask? Well, thanks to a massive contribution from N.E.S.T.S., the SNK Corporation was able to go the distance and spare no expense in bringing fans the first (and perhaps greatest) fighting tournament of the new millennium.
Shawn Neo: Too true, Charles, and I'd be lying through my teeth if I said I wasn't pumped up for this occasion. With many returning favorites and a bevy of newcomers, it's almost certain that even those stuck in the cheap seats will be getting their money's worth. Before we get things started, let's give a warm welcome to our field reporters covering things from both near and afar. Over at the east entrance to the stadium is a man who's no stranger to the fighting scene, having covered numerous SNK-run tournaments since 1997; let's say hello to Duke Edwards. How's the atmosphere out there, Duke?
Duke Edwards: In a word, Shawn- energetic! There haven't been this many fans in attendance since the KOF '97 tournament. The sheer amount of emotion swirling around here could sustain a soap opera for at least three years. Heck, there's enough fan support to make even the most downtrodden of fighters step up to the plate. I've been wired since early this morning waiting for things to unfold. What about you guys?
*crowd cheers and hollers in the background*
Duke: Well, there you have it, guys- proof positive that this tournament will be anything but disappointing. Back to you in the studio.
Charles Geo: Thanks, Duke. And let's not forget about another one of our crewmembers. He may have only been around since 1999, but he's got more than enough experience to hold his own. Reporting to us from one of the stadium's luxury boxes is our very own Rody Birts.
Rody Birts: Thanks, Charles! I'm here with the Gekiganger 4 Team, who've been chilling up here since early this morning. As many of you are already aware, this new team was formed following a few bitter team break-ups between the kids that currently make up this team and their former teammates. Shingo Yabuki, as leader of this freshman team, how do you feel about going at it on your own for the second time, and how are you coping with the pressures of being a first-time team captain?
Shingo: Well, Rody, I'm shaking- but that's a good thing. I'm shaking with excitement because I not only get to lead my own team into battle against some of the world's finest combatants, I also have the chance to prove to my master that I can make it on my own, which is one of the main reasons why Chris and Kula joined my team in the first place.
Rody: I see. And how have things been you and Kyo Kusanagi since you were dumped off their team some time ago?
Shingo: Things have been fine. At first, I was angry at being denied the chance to fight alongside my idol, but after I ran into Kasumi, things started to look up, and the rest is history. Kusanagi-san and I are still on good terms with one another, and Benimaru and Daimon continue to keep in touch with me every so often. I wish I could say the same things about Chris and Kula's teams, though; there's been nothing but bad blood between them ever since they broke up with their respective teammates.
Chris: You can say that again. Vice and Mature, if you're watching this, I hope you slept well with each other last night, because today's the day you're both going to pay for poisoning my relationship with Yashiro and Shermie! If Iori's team doesn't take care of you, I'll make sure to finish the job his team started... personally!
Kula *pulls mic over to her*: Yeah! And Angel, I don't know what you see in K9999, but I guess stupid bimbos really DO fall for twisted psychopaths. Also, I'd like to wish K' the best of luck against the Ikari Warriors. Wait for me at the winner's circle, my love!
Rody: Wow! Strong words from this fledgling team. As for you, Kasumi Todoh, what's your take on all this?
Kasumi: I'm just glad I'm on a well-balanced team that doesn't consist of any annoying pricks (like the late Li Xiangfei and Hinako Shijo). I'm pleased that I'm finally part of a team that supports me instead of neglects me. These three are possibly the best teammates I could ask for.
Rody: How encouraging! One last question before I go: who do you think will win the upcoming exhibition match- the Samurai Shodown team, or the Last Blade team?
Shingo: Definitely the Samurai Shodown team. Nakoruru and Rimururu both have the speed, Galford's got the skill, and Haohmaru's got the strength to chop those sword-swinging wannabees down to size.
Chris: I wouldn't be so sure, Shingo. Both Kaede and Moriya look pretty fierce, and Hibiki's the female equivalent of the legendary Ukyo. Add in the ever-so-tricky Akari, and you might as well call the opposing team the "Samurai Slowdown" team.
Shingo: Are you nuts?! They've got Haohmaru on their team- as in the "legendary samurai who could chop down trees with one swing of his sword" Haohmaru. I doubt some wimpy Super Saiyan knock-off's going to put a stop to him. Heck, I bet he could take on the entire Last Blade team by himself and still come out smelling daisy fresh.
Kula: Whatever. All I want to see is Rimururu and Akari pummel the stuffing out of each other. It seems like they've been wanting to kill each other ever since we first showed up in Osaka. Just watching the two of them fight it out should prove to be entertaining enough.
Rody: It looks like I've unintentionally started a heated argument. Before things get out of hand, I'm sending it back to you, Shawn and Charles.
Shawn Neo: Thanks, Rody. We're all set to get this show on the road. Before the actual tournament beings, however, we've got ourselves a special exhibition match to start things off. By popular demand, the SNK Corporation has once again commissioned the Dr. Brown Institute For Chronological Research to bring back the best swordsmen and women from the past in order to determine which century truly had the best warriors: 18th or 19th century Japan. All questions will be answered and all debates will be put to rest here today, as four of the greatest samurai from each era set out to prove who really is the sharpest of them all.
Charles Geo: The time for talk has ended, and the time for bloodshed has begun. Let's bring out the challengers into SNK Stadium without any further hesitation! Ladies and gentlemen, now entering from the east entrance to the ring, they have fought ninjas, sorcerers, demons, and the undead, and yet still manage to make time for a nice cup of tea. Give it up for Haohmaru, Galford, Nakoruru, and Rimururu- the Samurai Shodown team!!!
*theme to "Samurai Jack" plays in the background* *audience cheers and applauds*
Shawn Neo: And now, coming in from the west entrance to the ring, they may not be the Kenshin-gumi, but since when did Kenshin Himura advert the world's destruction and live to tell about it? Here are Kaede, Minakata Moriya, Hibiki Takane, and Akari Ichijou- the Last Blade Team!!!
*"Heart Of The Sword" from "Rurouni Kenshin" plays in the background* *audience cheers and applauds*
Charles Geo: It looks like we're all set to start this bloodbath. Before we go any further, however, we'd like to remind the viewers at home that the rules in the exhibition battle are a little different from the normal rules. First and foremost, strikers are not allowed, and thus, each battle will be one on one. If the opponent is either knocked out, lands outside of the ring, gives up, or is killed, he/she loses the round. There is no time limit, and the use of sharp weapons and/or animals is perfectly acceptable. The last team with the most members still standing wins the battle.
Shawn Neo: Also, we'd like to warn any viewers with weak stomachs or small children that there will be some serious bloodshed during this event, so please, take proper precautions wherever necessary. Now, let's send things down to Referee Carlson Stevenson and get this melee underway!
Referee Carlson Stevenson: Listen up, samurai and swordswomen alike. I've already gone over the rules, so all of you should know what to do. Do not begin the battle until I have given you the signal. Now, which one of you will start the match?
Rimururu: I will.
Referee Carlson Stevenson: Very well, then. And as for you?
Akari Ichijou: I'll go first.
Referee Carlson Stevenson: So be it, then. Rimururu, Akari, please move into the center of the ring. As for the rest of you, please leave the ring and go to your respective corners.
Akari: Hey! Lame-ururu! I've got something you'll never have! *pulls out "SNK's Cutest Female" championship belt* See this? It's all mine! It'll never be in your grubby hands ever again.
Rimururu *irritated*: I'll make you eat your words, Bakari! By the time I'm done with you, they'll give you the title of "SNK's Ugliest Female".
*both stare and growl at each other while bolts of electricity shoot out of their eyes*
ROUND 1- FIGHT!
Charles Geo: And the fight is underway! Remember, folks, this is not a match- rather, it's a struggle for the honor of being called the strongest swordsman/woman of all ages.
Rimururu: Let's go show Bakari who "SNK's Cutest Female" really is, Konril! (Note: Konril is Rimururu's floating crystal.)
Rimururu charged toward Akari. Just as she was closing in on her, Akari disappeared into a portal and reappeared on the other side, colliding into Rimururu. The young Ainu priestess got up and swung at her using her dagger, but missed right when Akari escaped into another portal and landed right on top of her, bouncing off her again in order to add insult to injury. Frustrated by Akari's evasive tactics, Rimururu rolled away and waited for her to attack again. The young shrine priestess sent an energy blast (using one of her paper talismans) Rimururu's way, but at that moment, she leapt over the energy blast and jump-kicked Akari in the chest, sending her to the floor. Leaping back to her feet, Akari teleported off again, but sensing she was about to collide into her again, Rimururu sent Konril to where Akari was about to appear, making her collide into Konril head first and giving her a face-full of crystal.
Akari: OW! You hurt my cute little face!
Rimururu: Oh, I'm sorry. I thought Konril hit you on the back of your head. It's kind of hard to tell the two sides apart.
Angered from being hit in the face, Akari charged towards Rimururu, but was soon slipping on a puddle of ice formed by Rimururu and Konril. Right when Rimururu was about to strike, Akari repelled her attack and swung her staff like a baseball bat, hitting Rimururu and covering her in electricity.
Akari: Shocked? I thought you might be. Now it's time to turn you into a welcome mat for my demon parade.
Just as Akari was about to stick one of her special paper talismans onto the Ainu priestess, Rimururu rolled out of the way, dodging the attack by mere inches.
Akari *shocked*: I missed?!?!
Rimururu: Gee, that's too bad. *summons up giant iceberg* Hope you're not crushed by the loss. *tosses iceberg at Akari*
Shortly before landing on the shrine priestess, Akari leapt out of the way of the attack and barely missed it.
Rimururu *shocked*: What?!
Akari then appeared behind Rimururu, nailed her in the back of her head with her staff, and stuck a paper talisman on Konril, forcing it down to the floor. As Rimururu struggled to her feet...
Rimururu *shocked*: *GASP!* Konril!
Akari: HA! HA! Your little ice cube can't help you now.
Rimururu *angered*: You'll pay for hurting Konril!!
Rimururu charged towards Akari. Unable to react in time, Akari was sliced in half by Rimururu's enraged attack. Just as Rimururu thought she had unintentionally killed her opponent, Akari disappeared, turning into a paper talisman sliced in half.
Rimururu *shocked*: An illusion! I've been tricked!
Galford: Rimururu! Above you!
Just as Rimururu looked up and saw Akari cruising towards her with a high- speed flying kick, she countered with a fierce right hook. As both attacks connected at the same time, Akari and Rimururu both looked at each other, smiled, and fell to the ground. As it turned out, Akari's super flying kicked nailed Rimururu in the stomach, while Rimururu's intense right hook slammed into Akari's chin. Following the attacks, both combatants fell unconscious.
Nakoruru *shocked*: RIMURURU!
Charles Geo: Whoa mama! What a pair of intense attacks! You could literally feel the shockwaves coming from both of them!
Referee Carlson Stevenson: Both combatants are unable to continue fighting. Therefore, this match is a tie!
DRAW GAME!
Haohmaru *carrying Rimururu and Konril*: Hang in there, kid. The staff medics will be taking care of you shortly. In the meantime, take comfort in the fact that you put up one hell of a fight and gave the audience a good show (even though you probably can't hear me right now).
Galford: That was amazing! POW! Right in the kisser! I never knew she had it in her!
Nakoruru: Yes, that was impressive, and now that my dear sister's gotten even with her arch-rival, maybe she'll finally start to calm down and act like she normally does.
Minakata Moriya: Well, at least we won't have to deal with that Akari pest for a while.
Hibiki Takane: Agreed! She was really starting to get on my nerves.
Shawn Neo: What a finish to a seesaw starter! If that didn't wake up everyone in SNK Stadium, then the next battle probably will. Next up are Nakoruru and Hibiki Takane.
Charles Geo: Unless you were stuck in a coma or in Uganda, you might remember that those two (along with Haohmaru) were last seen as a team in the Capcom VS. SNK 2 tournament a few months ago. Of course, everyone who saw that also knows that the winners of that tournament were Ryu, Kyo Kusanagi, and Terry Bogard (a.k.a. the Favorites team) after defeating Geese Howard and M. Bison (a.k.a. the Overlords Of The Earth team) and literally destroying powered-up versions of Rugal and Akuma (a.ka. God Rugal and Shin Akuma). All that's irrelevant now, as former teammates are forced to square off against each other.
Nakoruru *to Hibiki*: I'm sorry about my little sister's uncharacteristically bad behavior. She never acted like that before Akari won the title of "SNK's Cutest Female".
Hibiki *to Nakoruru*: Oh, that's quite all right. I'm actually glad she was able to take down Akari; at least that hyperactive brat's out of our hair.
Nakoruru *to Hibiki*: Shall we give this crowd a good performance?
Hibiki *to Nakoruru*: By all means, let's give them something to remember.
*both fighters assume their battle stances*
ROUND 2- FIGHT!
Nakoruru started off with her "Annu Mutsube" (sliding ground slash). Hibiki blocked it and swung her sword at her, but Nakoruru leapt over the slash. Right when she was about to kick her on the way down, Hibiki grabbed Nakoruru by her left foot and tossed her to the floor, but Nakoruru landed on her feet.
Nakoruru: Not bad...
*Hibiki smiles*
Nakoruru: MAMAHAHA!
At Nakoruru's command, Mamahaha swooped in and dove toward Hibiki, but fended off the bird's attack and parried Nakoruru's "Annu Mutsube", leaving the Ainu priestess open to a fierce slash from Hibiki's sword. The attack left a small wound on Nakoruru's back, but she got up on her own, pulled out her scarf, and whipped it around Hibiki's sword. Since her weapon was tied up at the line between the sword and scabbard, Hibiki was unable to unsheathe it, leaving the two girls in an intense tug-of-war. Using the momentum of Hibiki's tug to her advantage, Nakoruru (while holding on to her scarf) catapulted herself toward Hibiki and applied a swift kick to the swordswoman's right cheek. Landing right behind her, Nakoruru ran toward her, and just as she was about to strike with a fierce slash, Hibiki lunged the hilt of her sword into Nakoruru's stomach, forcing her to tumble over. A couple seconds after being knocked down, Nakoruru leapt up, grabbed onto Mamahaha's legs, and attempted a dive bomb attack. Hibiki parried it and struck back with a fierce slash onto Nakoruru's midsection. Bleeding, but still able to move, Nakoruru dashed toward Hibiki, dodged her fierce slash, and countered with a trio of medium slashes, leaving wounds across Hibiki's chest. Right when Nakoruru performed her "Lela Mutsube" (rising sliding slash), Hibiki parried it and countered with her "Heavenly Spirit of Victory" DM. The desperation attack knocked Nakoruru's weapon out of her hands, and as Hibiki sheathed her sword, it left an incredibly large wound across Nakoruru's chest. Nakoruru collapsed to the floor.
Galford *shocked*: Oh no! NAKORURU!
Hibiki *shocked*: *GASP!* I didn't mean to do that! Please forgive me!
Just then, Nakoruru struggled to her feet, badly wounded but still breathing.
Hibiki *shocked*: What the...?!?
Nakoruru *weakened*: It's not... over... yet.
As Nakoruru dashed toward her opponent, Hibiki swung her sword at her. Just then, Nakoruru caught the sword with her hands and kicked Hibiki in the stomach, forcing her to release her weapon. With Hibiki defenseless, Nakoruru unleashed a whirlwind combination of punches and kicks. Seconds later, Nakoruru stopped her attack, and Hibiki fell to the floor, unconscious.
K.O.! WINNER: NAKORURU!
Nakoruru: *Phew!* Thanks for giving me an excellent fight, Hibiki. And yet, I can't help but feel that it was an empty victory.
Galford: YEAH! That's my girl!
Haohmaru *to Nakoruru*: Nice! You really gave that Ukyo copycat what for.
Nakoruru: Oh, be nice, Haohmaru. She was our teammate in the CVS 2 tournament, after all.
Shawn Neo: WOW! What a comeback rally by Nakoruru! It looked like Hibiki had this battle under her control, but Nakoruru's endurance won out in the end.
Charles Geo: Much like her performance at the CVS 2 tournament, Nakoruru held up against the odds until the very end and came away victorious. However, I don't think her luck's going to last much longer if she decides to continue into the next round.
Kaede *while carrying Hibiki*: Good going, Hibiki. Even though you lost against Nakoruru, you were at least able to give her an impressive display of your skills and soften her up to the point where even Akari can take her down. *lays Hibiki outside the ring*
Moriya: And what's that supposed to mean?
Kaede: Nothing. Why? Are you going to face her now?
Moriya: Yes. I'm going to give that nature girl a piece of my mind.
Referee Carlson Stevenson: Nakoruru, can you continue to fight? Are you willing to battle against the next opponent?
Nakoruru: Yes.
Galford *shocked*: What?! Tell me you're joking! Look at how badly injured you are! Didn't you overhear what Kaede said? If he says that Akari brat can easily floor you, then that's definitely not a good sign.
Nakoruru: I'm aware of that, Galford, but I have to at least see what I'm capable of against Moriya. Besides, if I can get in a few good hits, maybe I can make him easier for you to handle.
Galford: Okay, but I won't forgive you if you get yourself killed here today.
Referee Carlson Stevenson: Very well, then. Moriya, please enter the ring.
Charles Geo: Okay, we're all set to begin the third round. It's the master of the Crescent Moon Slash versus a weakened Nakoruru.
Moriya *to Nakoruru*: You may have gotten lucky in the last fight, but the spirits of nature will not be able to save you this time.
Nakoruru *to Moriya*: Though you're a master swordsman, you're a fool if you think you can get away with mocking nature.
ROUND 3- FIGHT!
Nakoruru rushed toward Moriya as he performed a "Crescent Moon Slash". Nakoruru blocked the attack and tripped him up with an "Annu Mutsube". She then jumped up, latched onto Mamahaha's legs, and executed her "Kamui Mutsube" (dive bomb attack), but Moriya saw this coming, and unleashed his "Life And Death Moonlight Flash" DM, trapping Nakoruru within a series of incredibly rapid slashes. Nakoruru landed on the floor, unconscious, with a bunch of wounds.
Galford *shocked*: NAKORURU!
K.O.! WINNER: Moriya!
Moriya: Looks like your precious nature spirits were nothing more than an illusion.
Shawn Neo: Despite Nakoruru's best efforts, Moriya easily shoved her off the plateau of victory and into the chasm of defeat.
Galford picked up Nakoruru and carried her out of the ring.
Galford: Oh! Thank goodness! She's still breathing! *to Moriya* I'm going to electrocute your ass for harming my girl, you arrogant twit! *leaps into the ring*
Charles Geo: Sounds like Galford wants to get revenge on Moriya in the worst way.
Moriya *to Galford*: A blond-haired ninja with a dog? Don't make me laugh.
*both fighters assume their battle stances*
ROUND 4- FIGHT!
Galford disappeared and reappeared right behind Moriya. The swordsman turned his back and tried to catch him off-guard with a rapid low slash, but Galford disappeared again and struck him from above. Moriya then attempted a "Crescent Moon Slash" while Galford was facing away from him, but he rolled away from it and fired a "Plasma Blade" at Moriya, temporarily stunning him.
Galford: Go Poppy!
Calling out his trustworthy dog, Poppy attacked Moriya. While Moriya was distracted, Galford leapt over and appeared behind him and performed his "Strike Heads" slam (which consisted of Galford grabbing his opponent, leaping into the air, and slamming him to the ground while twirling, bathing him in electricity).
Meanwhile, outside the ring, Nakoruru awoke from her injury-induced slumber.
Nakoruru *dazed*: Uhhh... how long was I out for?
Haohmaru: Only a few minutes- you've certainly gotten tougher if you can wake up so soon after taking such punishment.
Nakoruru: I guess so. Now if you'll excuse me, I have to make a call to nature. *clasps hands together* Oh spirits of nature, heed my call. Heal my wounds, injuries and all.
In an instant, a beam of light descended from the clouds and surrounded Nakoruru. Seconds later, the light disappeared- and so did her wounds.
Nakoruru: Ahh! Much better!
Haohmaru: That trick never fails, does it?
Nakoruru: You got that right. And now, it's Hibiki's turn. *says the same prayer for Hibiki*
Moments later, Hibiki awoke, refreshed and fully healed.
Hibiki: What happened? How did I heal so quickly?
Kaede: I guess Nakoruru summoned the spirits of nature to heal both you and her.
Hibiki: Really? Wow!
Haohmaru: Hey, aren't you going to heal Rimururu and Akari too?
Nakoruru: I wouldn't worry about them. Those two are better off asleep right now. Besides, they'll eventually heal on their own.
Back in the ring, Moriya was getting frustrated over Galford's hit and run tactics. Having had enough, he spotted an opening and struck back with his "Life And Death Moonlight Flash". Halfway through the attack, however, Moriya realized he was attacking a log the entire time.
Moriya *shocked*: I've been duped!
Galford appeared on both sides of Moriya and unleashed his "Double Mega Strike Heads" DM, striking him with several rapid attacks and finishing him off with a supercharged "Strike Heads" slam. Moriya fell unconscious after being slammed.
K.O.! WINNER: Galford!
Galford: YEAH! Serves you right for messing with my girl!
Nakoruru: All right! Way to go, Galford!
Galford: Hey! You healed yourself! Glad to see you're back to normal.
Haohmaru: You made that stuck-up jerk eat his own words.
Charles Geo: Galford did it! He got even with Moriya and his teammates' praise. But can he get one more victory and secure his own team's victory? We'll find out in a moment.
Kaede *to Galford*: You certainly put Moriya in his place. However, I highly doubt that you have enough juice to shock the living tar out of me. *steps into the ring*
Galford *to Kaede*: Hey! What happened to cool hairdo?
Kaede *to Galford*: You mean this? *changes into awakened form*
Galford *to Kaede*: Yeah! That's more like it! Let's dance!
*both fighters assume their battle stances*
ROUND 5- FIGHT!
Galford sent Poppy out to start things off, but Kaede fired a bolt of electricity from his sword, zapping the poor dog. Galford then duplicated himself in order to fool Kaede, but he spotted the real one and nailed him with his "Morning Star Wind Fang" (leaping triple electric slash). Galford soon found himself on the defensive as he tried to block all of Kaede's attacks, but moments later, he got an opening after parrying Kaede's medium slash. Taking advantage, he got in a few swift attacks followed by a "Plasma Blade". He then tried to follow it up with his "Strike Heads" slam, but Kaede knocked him away and performed his "Ittou Raitei" (electric body slam) on him. Angered, Galford tried his "Double Mega Strike Heads" DM, but Kaede countered with his "Lively Bad Dragon Rising" DM (a series of five large lightning strikes), blasting the American ninja into the sky and onto the ground. Surprisingly, Galford sprung to his feet a few seconds later.
Galford: Hey Kaede! I'm not through yet!
Kaede: Oh yes, you are. Take a look at where you're standing right now.
Galford took a look around and realized he was standing outside the ring.
Galford *shocked*: What?!?
RING OUT! WINNER: Kaede!
Kaede: Sorry, Galford. Better luck next time.
Nakoruru: *Sigh!* Oh Galford...
*Poppy places her paws over her eyes in embarrassment*
Shawn Neo: What a humiliating turn of events for Galford. Getting blown away by a powerful attack and blasted out of the ring can't be good for his karma. Still, Kaede showed the reason why he's the front man of his team in dramatic fashion.
Charles Geo: You got that right, Shawn, which leads us to the final round of this exhibition match- Haohmaru vs. Kaede!
Galford *angered*: Hey! This isn't over yet! To hell with the rules, Kaede- let's finish this right here, right now!
*Haohmaru places his arm on Galford's shoulder*
Haohmaru: Let it go, Galford. You didn't have a snowball's chance in hell in the first place, so why do you think your odds would be any better now? Besides, it's my turn to face him now, so stand aside and watch how a real samurai gets the job done. And if I can't finish the job, I'll leave it up to you whether or not you want to face him next time. How does that sound?
Galford: You're right, Haohmaru. I'm sorry, I guess I let my emotions get the better of me. Now get out there and raise hell for that swordsman! And yes, I would like another crack at Kaede if you do lose.
Haohmaru: Who said anything about me losing? *steps into the ring*
Galford: Yeah! That's the spirit, Haohmaru!
Nakoruru: Are you feeling okay, Galford?
Galford: Don't worry, I'm fine now. Let's sit back and watch this duel, shall we?
Nakoruru: Yes.
Charles Geo: Man oh man! The crowd's getting pumped up for this final showdown! Who will be the samurai supreme? Let's find out- right now!
*both opponents meet each other in the center of the ring and bow*
FINAL ROUND- FIGHT!
Right at the signal, both swordsman charged toward each other and began swinging their swords. Each combatant blocked, parried, or countered the other's attacks. The exchange continued for three minutes. At that point, Haohmaru fired off his "Senpu Retsudan" (mini-cyclone), while Kaede launched off an electric bolt; both attacks cancelled each other out. The two then dashed toward one another and used their jumping attacks (Haohmaru- "Sogetsu-Zan"/ Kaede- "Morning Star Wind Fang"). Again, both of their attacks were cancelled out. From there, the exchange of parries, blocks, and counters resumed.
Meanwhile, over in the Samurai Shodown team's corner of the ring, Rimururu awoke.
Rimururu: Hey, what's going on... whoa!
Enthralled by the battle taking place in front of her, Rimururu fell silent as she observed the duel between Haohmaru and Kaede.
Back in the ring, the battle continued to pick up intensity, with the volley of sword swings continuing for another four minutes. Just then, each combatant spotted an opening and unleashed their SDMs (Haohmaru: "Tenha Danku Retsuzan"/ Kaede: "Morning Star Lance"). Both super desperation attacks collided at the same time, enveloping the stadium in a bright flash for half a minute. When the flash disappeared and the dust settled, both opponents stood at opposite ends of the ring, frozen in their after-strike poses. A few seconds later, a very large cut appeared across Haohmaru's chest, bringing him down to his knees, while Kaede received a wound so large and deep that his upper half slid to the ground. Kaede had been chopped in half.
Haohmaru: Sorry to see you split.
Moriya *shocked*: KAEDE!!!
Hibiki *horrified*: Oh God! So much blood! No...
Akari *shocked*: KAEDE-KUN!!! *starts crying*
Galford *shocked*: Why, Haohmaru? Why'd you have to kill him?! Say it isn't so!!
Nakoruru *shocked*: He didn't deserve to die like that!
Haohmaru: Look, I'm sorry, but it was he or I. There's nothing I can do now.
*Rimururu starts crying*
Hibiki *to Nakoruru*: Isn't there anything you can do?!
Nakoruru *to Hibiki*: I wish I could, but the spirits of nature can't revive the dead.
*pan to the shocked reactions of various King of Fighters characters*
Shawn Neo: Ladies and gentlemen, in all my years as a commentator for the King Of Fighters, I've witnessed people get badly injured, stabbed, or beaten to death, but never have I seen anything of this magnitude. Not once have I seen anyone get sliced in half. This is just surreal.
Charles Geo: On behalf of the King Of Fighters staff, I'd like to sincerely apologize for the scene you've just witnessed. Those of you with young children at home may want to turn off your TVs right now and console them as best you can.
Nakoruru *to Dr. Brown*: How can you remain smug at a time like this?!?
Dr. Brown: Simple- I've got the power to alter time in my hands. Behold: the Chrono-Remote! *presses Rewind button on remote*
Using the Rewind button on his remote, Dr. Brown returned Kaede to normal.
Nakoruru *to Dr. Brown, amazed*: You did it! You brought him back to life!
Kaede *surprised*: I'm alive- and whole! But how?
Dr. Brown: Both of you can thank the marvels of modern science.
Galford: Woo hoo! Look who's back in the saddle!
Rimururu: YAY! It's a miracle!
*pan to the awed reactions of various King of Fighters characters*
Moriya, Hibiki, and Akari ran up to Kaede.
Moriya: Welcome back to the land of the living, Kaede.
Hibiki: I'm happy to see you alive and well!
Akari: I thought you were a goner for sure!
Shawn Neo: WOW! If I didn't see it with my own eyes, I'd say I was hallucinating! Kaede has been brought back to life and back in one piece!
Charles Geo: To be able to bear witness to an actual revival is truly indescribable. This moment's going in the record books not only as the first person to be split in two, but also the first time someone was both killed and brought back to life inside the ring! This historic moment will be discussed for years to come.
At that moment, Kaede walked toward Haohmaru.
Kaede: I guess this means you're the greatest samurai of all time. I'm honored I could fight someone with such incredible skill.
Haohmaru: You put up one hell of a fight, Kaede. That was one of the best duels I've had in ages. I'm both pleased and impressed!
Shawn Neo: And there you have it, ladies and gentlemen! The winner of the King Of Fighters 2001 exhibition match- the Samurai Shodown Team!!
*crowd cheers and applauds as the Samurai Shodown team stands in the center of the ring while striking their victory poses*
Shawn Neo: If this exhibition match was only a hint at what's to come, then I'm sure we're in store for a whole lot more excitement, as the first round of the King Of Fighters 2001 tournament is about to get underway!
Charles Geo: We'll be spending the next few minutes getting things primed and ready to go, but after this short intermission, we'll start the first match immediately! Stay tuned!
The exhibition match has come to a close, and the Samurai Shodown team is victorious. But now that the preliminary shots have been fired, what sort of fireworks are set to go off over the course of the King Of Fighters 2001 tournament? See what happens when the fuse is lit in the next pulse- pounding chapter!
Moriya *to Akari*: Why did you yell "Kaede-kun"?
Akari: Rimururu bragged about having a boyfriend, so I had to stake my claim so that she wouldn't make fun of me.
Kaede *to Akari*: Idiot. What makes you think I'd be in love with someone who can't even sit still for more than five minutes?
Hibiki *to Akari*: And what makes you so sure you're ever going to get a boyfriend? That lummox Juzoh follows you everywhere, so I'm guessing he's the closest you'll ever get to having a boyfriend.
Akari *heartbroken*: You are all very mean!! *runs off crying*
TO BE CONTINUED...
And that does it for the second part of this cavalcade of mayhem. Next time, the first round of the KOF 2001 tournament kicks off with a bang, as the Hero Team and Ikari Warriors grapple for supremacy, while Shingo tries to lead the Gekiganger 4 Team past the Psycho Soldier Team. Who will make it out in one piece, and who will leave in pieces? Find out in the third chapter of the King Of Fighters 2001 EX: Tournament Edition- "Holding Out For A Hero".
Ladies and gentlemen, I will be taking an extended leave from my fanfic writing for the next few months (possibly until June or July) so that I can concentrate on graduating from college and earning my Bachelor's Degree in Liberal Arts. That said, it will be awhile before you see the next chapter of this story. In the meantime, do continue to send any and all feedback to insaneben@yahoo.com. See you next time, everybody!
Ben Jonas presents:
The King of Fighters 2001 EX: Tournament Edition Chapter 2- It's Time To Shodown!
Location: SNK Stadium- Osaka, Japan Friday, 10:00am
Shawn Neo: Good morning, Japan (and the rest of the world)! It's a beautiful day here at SNK Stadium in Osaka, as we welcome you to what could very well be the greatest King Of Fighters tournament 2001 has ever seen.
Charles Geo: That's right, Shawn. Though that last statement was somewhat redundant, in all seriousness, this will certainly be the largest KOF tournament to date, clocking in at 64 fighters spread out over 16 different teams. And speaking of size, this tournament will also being making use of no less than twelve different themed stages (not counting our very own SNK Stadium) in order to accommodate the individual matches of the preliminary and second rounds. How is all this possible, you ask? Well, thanks to a massive contribution from N.E.S.T.S., the SNK Corporation was able to go the distance and spare no expense in bringing fans the first (and perhaps greatest) fighting tournament of the new millennium.
Shawn Neo: Too true, Charles, and I'd be lying through my teeth if I said I wasn't pumped up for this occasion. With many returning favorites and a bevy of newcomers, it's almost certain that even those stuck in the cheap seats will be getting their money's worth. Before we get things started, let's give a warm welcome to our field reporters covering things from both near and afar. Over at the east entrance to the stadium is a man who's no stranger to the fighting scene, having covered numerous SNK-run tournaments since 1997; let's say hello to Duke Edwards. How's the atmosphere out there, Duke?
Duke Edwards: In a word, Shawn- energetic! There haven't been this many fans in attendance since the KOF '97 tournament. The sheer amount of emotion swirling around here could sustain a soap opera for at least three years. Heck, there's enough fan support to make even the most downtrodden of fighters step up to the plate. I've been wired since early this morning waiting for things to unfold. What about you guys?
*crowd cheers and hollers in the background*
Duke: Well, there you have it, guys- proof positive that this tournament will be anything but disappointing. Back to you in the studio.
Charles Geo: Thanks, Duke. And let's not forget about another one of our crewmembers. He may have only been around since 1999, but he's got more than enough experience to hold his own. Reporting to us from one of the stadium's luxury boxes is our very own Rody Birts.
Rody Birts: Thanks, Charles! I'm here with the Gekiganger 4 Team, who've been chilling up here since early this morning. As many of you are already aware, this new team was formed following a few bitter team break-ups between the kids that currently make up this team and their former teammates. Shingo Yabuki, as leader of this freshman team, how do you feel about going at it on your own for the second time, and how are you coping with the pressures of being a first-time team captain?
Shingo: Well, Rody, I'm shaking- but that's a good thing. I'm shaking with excitement because I not only get to lead my own team into battle against some of the world's finest combatants, I also have the chance to prove to my master that I can make it on my own, which is one of the main reasons why Chris and Kula joined my team in the first place.
Rody: I see. And how have things been you and Kyo Kusanagi since you were dumped off their team some time ago?
Shingo: Things have been fine. At first, I was angry at being denied the chance to fight alongside my idol, but after I ran into Kasumi, things started to look up, and the rest is history. Kusanagi-san and I are still on good terms with one another, and Benimaru and Daimon continue to keep in touch with me every so often. I wish I could say the same things about Chris and Kula's teams, though; there's been nothing but bad blood between them ever since they broke up with their respective teammates.
Chris: You can say that again. Vice and Mature, if you're watching this, I hope you slept well with each other last night, because today's the day you're both going to pay for poisoning my relationship with Yashiro and Shermie! If Iori's team doesn't take care of you, I'll make sure to finish the job his team started... personally!
Kula *pulls mic over to her*: Yeah! And Angel, I don't know what you see in K9999, but I guess stupid bimbos really DO fall for twisted psychopaths. Also, I'd like to wish K' the best of luck against the Ikari Warriors. Wait for me at the winner's circle, my love!
Rody: Wow! Strong words from this fledgling team. As for you, Kasumi Todoh, what's your take on all this?
Kasumi: I'm just glad I'm on a well-balanced team that doesn't consist of any annoying pricks (like the late Li Xiangfei and Hinako Shijo). I'm pleased that I'm finally part of a team that supports me instead of neglects me. These three are possibly the best teammates I could ask for.
Rody: How encouraging! One last question before I go: who do you think will win the upcoming exhibition match- the Samurai Shodown team, or the Last Blade team?
Shingo: Definitely the Samurai Shodown team. Nakoruru and Rimururu both have the speed, Galford's got the skill, and Haohmaru's got the strength to chop those sword-swinging wannabees down to size.
Chris: I wouldn't be so sure, Shingo. Both Kaede and Moriya look pretty fierce, and Hibiki's the female equivalent of the legendary Ukyo. Add in the ever-so-tricky Akari, and you might as well call the opposing team the "Samurai Slowdown" team.
Shingo: Are you nuts?! They've got Haohmaru on their team- as in the "legendary samurai who could chop down trees with one swing of his sword" Haohmaru. I doubt some wimpy Super Saiyan knock-off's going to put a stop to him. Heck, I bet he could take on the entire Last Blade team by himself and still come out smelling daisy fresh.
Kula: Whatever. All I want to see is Rimururu and Akari pummel the stuffing out of each other. It seems like they've been wanting to kill each other ever since we first showed up in Osaka. Just watching the two of them fight it out should prove to be entertaining enough.
Rody: It looks like I've unintentionally started a heated argument. Before things get out of hand, I'm sending it back to you, Shawn and Charles.
Shawn Neo: Thanks, Rody. We're all set to get this show on the road. Before the actual tournament beings, however, we've got ourselves a special exhibition match to start things off. By popular demand, the SNK Corporation has once again commissioned the Dr. Brown Institute For Chronological Research to bring back the best swordsmen and women from the past in order to determine which century truly had the best warriors: 18th or 19th century Japan. All questions will be answered and all debates will be put to rest here today, as four of the greatest samurai from each era set out to prove who really is the sharpest of them all.
Charles Geo: The time for talk has ended, and the time for bloodshed has begun. Let's bring out the challengers into SNK Stadium without any further hesitation! Ladies and gentlemen, now entering from the east entrance to the ring, they have fought ninjas, sorcerers, demons, and the undead, and yet still manage to make time for a nice cup of tea. Give it up for Haohmaru, Galford, Nakoruru, and Rimururu- the Samurai Shodown team!!!
*theme to "Samurai Jack" plays in the background* *audience cheers and applauds*
Shawn Neo: And now, coming in from the west entrance to the ring, they may not be the Kenshin-gumi, but since when did Kenshin Himura advert the world's destruction and live to tell about it? Here are Kaede, Minakata Moriya, Hibiki Takane, and Akari Ichijou- the Last Blade Team!!!
*"Heart Of The Sword" from "Rurouni Kenshin" plays in the background* *audience cheers and applauds*
Charles Geo: It looks like we're all set to start this bloodbath. Before we go any further, however, we'd like to remind the viewers at home that the rules in the exhibition battle are a little different from the normal rules. First and foremost, strikers are not allowed, and thus, each battle will be one on one. If the opponent is either knocked out, lands outside of the ring, gives up, or is killed, he/she loses the round. There is no time limit, and the use of sharp weapons and/or animals is perfectly acceptable. The last team with the most members still standing wins the battle.
Shawn Neo: Also, we'd like to warn any viewers with weak stomachs or small children that there will be some serious bloodshed during this event, so please, take proper precautions wherever necessary. Now, let's send things down to Referee Carlson Stevenson and get this melee underway!
Referee Carlson Stevenson: Listen up, samurai and swordswomen alike. I've already gone over the rules, so all of you should know what to do. Do not begin the battle until I have given you the signal. Now, which one of you will start the match?
Rimururu: I will.
Referee Carlson Stevenson: Very well, then. And as for you?
Akari Ichijou: I'll go first.
Referee Carlson Stevenson: So be it, then. Rimururu, Akari, please move into the center of the ring. As for the rest of you, please leave the ring and go to your respective corners.
Akari: Hey! Lame-ururu! I've got something you'll never have! *pulls out "SNK's Cutest Female" championship belt* See this? It's all mine! It'll never be in your grubby hands ever again.
Rimururu *irritated*: I'll make you eat your words, Bakari! By the time I'm done with you, they'll give you the title of "SNK's Ugliest Female".
*both stare and growl at each other while bolts of electricity shoot out of their eyes*
ROUND 1- FIGHT!
Charles Geo: And the fight is underway! Remember, folks, this is not a match- rather, it's a struggle for the honor of being called the strongest swordsman/woman of all ages.
Rimururu: Let's go show Bakari who "SNK's Cutest Female" really is, Konril! (Note: Konril is Rimururu's floating crystal.)
Rimururu charged toward Akari. Just as she was closing in on her, Akari disappeared into a portal and reappeared on the other side, colliding into Rimururu. The young Ainu priestess got up and swung at her using her dagger, but missed right when Akari escaped into another portal and landed right on top of her, bouncing off her again in order to add insult to injury. Frustrated by Akari's evasive tactics, Rimururu rolled away and waited for her to attack again. The young shrine priestess sent an energy blast (using one of her paper talismans) Rimururu's way, but at that moment, she leapt over the energy blast and jump-kicked Akari in the chest, sending her to the floor. Leaping back to her feet, Akari teleported off again, but sensing she was about to collide into her again, Rimururu sent Konril to where Akari was about to appear, making her collide into Konril head first and giving her a face-full of crystal.
Akari: OW! You hurt my cute little face!
Rimururu: Oh, I'm sorry. I thought Konril hit you on the back of your head. It's kind of hard to tell the two sides apart.
Angered from being hit in the face, Akari charged towards Rimururu, but was soon slipping on a puddle of ice formed by Rimururu and Konril. Right when Rimururu was about to strike, Akari repelled her attack and swung her staff like a baseball bat, hitting Rimururu and covering her in electricity.
Akari: Shocked? I thought you might be. Now it's time to turn you into a welcome mat for my demon parade.
Just as Akari was about to stick one of her special paper talismans onto the Ainu priestess, Rimururu rolled out of the way, dodging the attack by mere inches.
Akari *shocked*: I missed?!?!
Rimururu: Gee, that's too bad. *summons up giant iceberg* Hope you're not crushed by the loss. *tosses iceberg at Akari*
Shortly before landing on the shrine priestess, Akari leapt out of the way of the attack and barely missed it.
Rimururu *shocked*: What?!
Akari then appeared behind Rimururu, nailed her in the back of her head with her staff, and stuck a paper talisman on Konril, forcing it down to the floor. As Rimururu struggled to her feet...
Rimururu *shocked*: *GASP!* Konril!
Akari: HA! HA! Your little ice cube can't help you now.
Rimururu *angered*: You'll pay for hurting Konril!!
Rimururu charged towards Akari. Unable to react in time, Akari was sliced in half by Rimururu's enraged attack. Just as Rimururu thought she had unintentionally killed her opponent, Akari disappeared, turning into a paper talisman sliced in half.
Rimururu *shocked*: An illusion! I've been tricked!
Galford: Rimururu! Above you!
Just as Rimururu looked up and saw Akari cruising towards her with a high- speed flying kick, she countered with a fierce right hook. As both attacks connected at the same time, Akari and Rimururu both looked at each other, smiled, and fell to the ground. As it turned out, Akari's super flying kicked nailed Rimururu in the stomach, while Rimururu's intense right hook slammed into Akari's chin. Following the attacks, both combatants fell unconscious.
Nakoruru *shocked*: RIMURURU!
Charles Geo: Whoa mama! What a pair of intense attacks! You could literally feel the shockwaves coming from both of them!
Referee Carlson Stevenson: Both combatants are unable to continue fighting. Therefore, this match is a tie!
DRAW GAME!
Haohmaru *carrying Rimururu and Konril*: Hang in there, kid. The staff medics will be taking care of you shortly. In the meantime, take comfort in the fact that you put up one hell of a fight and gave the audience a good show (even though you probably can't hear me right now).
Galford: That was amazing! POW! Right in the kisser! I never knew she had it in her!
Nakoruru: Yes, that was impressive, and now that my dear sister's gotten even with her arch-rival, maybe she'll finally start to calm down and act like she normally does.
Minakata Moriya: Well, at least we won't have to deal with that Akari pest for a while.
Hibiki Takane: Agreed! She was really starting to get on my nerves.
Shawn Neo: What a finish to a seesaw starter! If that didn't wake up everyone in SNK Stadium, then the next battle probably will. Next up are Nakoruru and Hibiki Takane.
Charles Geo: Unless you were stuck in a coma or in Uganda, you might remember that those two (along with Haohmaru) were last seen as a team in the Capcom VS. SNK 2 tournament a few months ago. Of course, everyone who saw that also knows that the winners of that tournament were Ryu, Kyo Kusanagi, and Terry Bogard (a.k.a. the Favorites team) after defeating Geese Howard and M. Bison (a.k.a. the Overlords Of The Earth team) and literally destroying powered-up versions of Rugal and Akuma (a.ka. God Rugal and Shin Akuma). All that's irrelevant now, as former teammates are forced to square off against each other.
Nakoruru *to Hibiki*: I'm sorry about my little sister's uncharacteristically bad behavior. She never acted like that before Akari won the title of "SNK's Cutest Female".
Hibiki *to Nakoruru*: Oh, that's quite all right. I'm actually glad she was able to take down Akari; at least that hyperactive brat's out of our hair.
Nakoruru *to Hibiki*: Shall we give this crowd a good performance?
Hibiki *to Nakoruru*: By all means, let's give them something to remember.
*both fighters assume their battle stances*
ROUND 2- FIGHT!
Nakoruru started off with her "Annu Mutsube" (sliding ground slash). Hibiki blocked it and swung her sword at her, but Nakoruru leapt over the slash. Right when she was about to kick her on the way down, Hibiki grabbed Nakoruru by her left foot and tossed her to the floor, but Nakoruru landed on her feet.
Nakoruru: Not bad...
*Hibiki smiles*
Nakoruru: MAMAHAHA!
At Nakoruru's command, Mamahaha swooped in and dove toward Hibiki, but fended off the bird's attack and parried Nakoruru's "Annu Mutsube", leaving the Ainu priestess open to a fierce slash from Hibiki's sword. The attack left a small wound on Nakoruru's back, but she got up on her own, pulled out her scarf, and whipped it around Hibiki's sword. Since her weapon was tied up at the line between the sword and scabbard, Hibiki was unable to unsheathe it, leaving the two girls in an intense tug-of-war. Using the momentum of Hibiki's tug to her advantage, Nakoruru (while holding on to her scarf) catapulted herself toward Hibiki and applied a swift kick to the swordswoman's right cheek. Landing right behind her, Nakoruru ran toward her, and just as she was about to strike with a fierce slash, Hibiki lunged the hilt of her sword into Nakoruru's stomach, forcing her to tumble over. A couple seconds after being knocked down, Nakoruru leapt up, grabbed onto Mamahaha's legs, and attempted a dive bomb attack. Hibiki parried it and struck back with a fierce slash onto Nakoruru's midsection. Bleeding, but still able to move, Nakoruru dashed toward Hibiki, dodged her fierce slash, and countered with a trio of medium slashes, leaving wounds across Hibiki's chest. Right when Nakoruru performed her "Lela Mutsube" (rising sliding slash), Hibiki parried it and countered with her "Heavenly Spirit of Victory" DM. The desperation attack knocked Nakoruru's weapon out of her hands, and as Hibiki sheathed her sword, it left an incredibly large wound across Nakoruru's chest. Nakoruru collapsed to the floor.
Galford *shocked*: Oh no! NAKORURU!
Hibiki *shocked*: *GASP!* I didn't mean to do that! Please forgive me!
Just then, Nakoruru struggled to her feet, badly wounded but still breathing.
Hibiki *shocked*: What the...?!?
Nakoruru *weakened*: It's not... over... yet.
As Nakoruru dashed toward her opponent, Hibiki swung her sword at her. Just then, Nakoruru caught the sword with her hands and kicked Hibiki in the stomach, forcing her to release her weapon. With Hibiki defenseless, Nakoruru unleashed a whirlwind combination of punches and kicks. Seconds later, Nakoruru stopped her attack, and Hibiki fell to the floor, unconscious.
K.O.! WINNER: NAKORURU!
Nakoruru: *Phew!* Thanks for giving me an excellent fight, Hibiki. And yet, I can't help but feel that it was an empty victory.
Galford: YEAH! That's my girl!
Haohmaru *to Nakoruru*: Nice! You really gave that Ukyo copycat what for.
Nakoruru: Oh, be nice, Haohmaru. She was our teammate in the CVS 2 tournament, after all.
Shawn Neo: WOW! What a comeback rally by Nakoruru! It looked like Hibiki had this battle under her control, but Nakoruru's endurance won out in the end.
Charles Geo: Much like her performance at the CVS 2 tournament, Nakoruru held up against the odds until the very end and came away victorious. However, I don't think her luck's going to last much longer if she decides to continue into the next round.
Kaede *while carrying Hibiki*: Good going, Hibiki. Even though you lost against Nakoruru, you were at least able to give her an impressive display of your skills and soften her up to the point where even Akari can take her down. *lays Hibiki outside the ring*
Moriya: And what's that supposed to mean?
Kaede: Nothing. Why? Are you going to face her now?
Moriya: Yes. I'm going to give that nature girl a piece of my mind.
Referee Carlson Stevenson: Nakoruru, can you continue to fight? Are you willing to battle against the next opponent?
Nakoruru: Yes.
Galford *shocked*: What?! Tell me you're joking! Look at how badly injured you are! Didn't you overhear what Kaede said? If he says that Akari brat can easily floor you, then that's definitely not a good sign.
Nakoruru: I'm aware of that, Galford, but I have to at least see what I'm capable of against Moriya. Besides, if I can get in a few good hits, maybe I can make him easier for you to handle.
Galford: Okay, but I won't forgive you if you get yourself killed here today.
Referee Carlson Stevenson: Very well, then. Moriya, please enter the ring.
Charles Geo: Okay, we're all set to begin the third round. It's the master of the Crescent Moon Slash versus a weakened Nakoruru.
Moriya *to Nakoruru*: You may have gotten lucky in the last fight, but the spirits of nature will not be able to save you this time.
Nakoruru *to Moriya*: Though you're a master swordsman, you're a fool if you think you can get away with mocking nature.
ROUND 3- FIGHT!
Nakoruru rushed toward Moriya as he performed a "Crescent Moon Slash". Nakoruru blocked the attack and tripped him up with an "Annu Mutsube". She then jumped up, latched onto Mamahaha's legs, and executed her "Kamui Mutsube" (dive bomb attack), but Moriya saw this coming, and unleashed his "Life And Death Moonlight Flash" DM, trapping Nakoruru within a series of incredibly rapid slashes. Nakoruru landed on the floor, unconscious, with a bunch of wounds.
Galford *shocked*: NAKORURU!
K.O.! WINNER: Moriya!
Moriya: Looks like your precious nature spirits were nothing more than an illusion.
Shawn Neo: Despite Nakoruru's best efforts, Moriya easily shoved her off the plateau of victory and into the chasm of defeat.
Galford picked up Nakoruru and carried her out of the ring.
Galford: Oh! Thank goodness! She's still breathing! *to Moriya* I'm going to electrocute your ass for harming my girl, you arrogant twit! *leaps into the ring*
Charles Geo: Sounds like Galford wants to get revenge on Moriya in the worst way.
Moriya *to Galford*: A blond-haired ninja with a dog? Don't make me laugh.
*both fighters assume their battle stances*
ROUND 4- FIGHT!
Galford disappeared and reappeared right behind Moriya. The swordsman turned his back and tried to catch him off-guard with a rapid low slash, but Galford disappeared again and struck him from above. Moriya then attempted a "Crescent Moon Slash" while Galford was facing away from him, but he rolled away from it and fired a "Plasma Blade" at Moriya, temporarily stunning him.
Galford: Go Poppy!
Calling out his trustworthy dog, Poppy attacked Moriya. While Moriya was distracted, Galford leapt over and appeared behind him and performed his "Strike Heads" slam (which consisted of Galford grabbing his opponent, leaping into the air, and slamming him to the ground while twirling, bathing him in electricity).
Meanwhile, outside the ring, Nakoruru awoke from her injury-induced slumber.
Nakoruru *dazed*: Uhhh... how long was I out for?
Haohmaru: Only a few minutes- you've certainly gotten tougher if you can wake up so soon after taking such punishment.
Nakoruru: I guess so. Now if you'll excuse me, I have to make a call to nature. *clasps hands together* Oh spirits of nature, heed my call. Heal my wounds, injuries and all.
In an instant, a beam of light descended from the clouds and surrounded Nakoruru. Seconds later, the light disappeared- and so did her wounds.
Nakoruru: Ahh! Much better!
Haohmaru: That trick never fails, does it?
Nakoruru: You got that right. And now, it's Hibiki's turn. *says the same prayer for Hibiki*
Moments later, Hibiki awoke, refreshed and fully healed.
Hibiki: What happened? How did I heal so quickly?
Kaede: I guess Nakoruru summoned the spirits of nature to heal both you and her.
Hibiki: Really? Wow!
Haohmaru: Hey, aren't you going to heal Rimururu and Akari too?
Nakoruru: I wouldn't worry about them. Those two are better off asleep right now. Besides, they'll eventually heal on their own.
Back in the ring, Moriya was getting frustrated over Galford's hit and run tactics. Having had enough, he spotted an opening and struck back with his "Life And Death Moonlight Flash". Halfway through the attack, however, Moriya realized he was attacking a log the entire time.
Moriya *shocked*: I've been duped!
Galford appeared on both sides of Moriya and unleashed his "Double Mega Strike Heads" DM, striking him with several rapid attacks and finishing him off with a supercharged "Strike Heads" slam. Moriya fell unconscious after being slammed.
K.O.! WINNER: Galford!
Galford: YEAH! Serves you right for messing with my girl!
Nakoruru: All right! Way to go, Galford!
Galford: Hey! You healed yourself! Glad to see you're back to normal.
Haohmaru: You made that stuck-up jerk eat his own words.
Charles Geo: Galford did it! He got even with Moriya and his teammates' praise. But can he get one more victory and secure his own team's victory? We'll find out in a moment.
Kaede *to Galford*: You certainly put Moriya in his place. However, I highly doubt that you have enough juice to shock the living tar out of me. *steps into the ring*
Galford *to Kaede*: Hey! What happened to cool hairdo?
Kaede *to Galford*: You mean this? *changes into awakened form*
Galford *to Kaede*: Yeah! That's more like it! Let's dance!
*both fighters assume their battle stances*
ROUND 5- FIGHT!
Galford sent Poppy out to start things off, but Kaede fired a bolt of electricity from his sword, zapping the poor dog. Galford then duplicated himself in order to fool Kaede, but he spotted the real one and nailed him with his "Morning Star Wind Fang" (leaping triple electric slash). Galford soon found himself on the defensive as he tried to block all of Kaede's attacks, but moments later, he got an opening after parrying Kaede's medium slash. Taking advantage, he got in a few swift attacks followed by a "Plasma Blade". He then tried to follow it up with his "Strike Heads" slam, but Kaede knocked him away and performed his "Ittou Raitei" (electric body slam) on him. Angered, Galford tried his "Double Mega Strike Heads" DM, but Kaede countered with his "Lively Bad Dragon Rising" DM (a series of five large lightning strikes), blasting the American ninja into the sky and onto the ground. Surprisingly, Galford sprung to his feet a few seconds later.
Galford: Hey Kaede! I'm not through yet!
Kaede: Oh yes, you are. Take a look at where you're standing right now.
Galford took a look around and realized he was standing outside the ring.
Galford *shocked*: What?!?
RING OUT! WINNER: Kaede!
Kaede: Sorry, Galford. Better luck next time.
Nakoruru: *Sigh!* Oh Galford...
*Poppy places her paws over her eyes in embarrassment*
Shawn Neo: What a humiliating turn of events for Galford. Getting blown away by a powerful attack and blasted out of the ring can't be good for his karma. Still, Kaede showed the reason why he's the front man of his team in dramatic fashion.
Charles Geo: You got that right, Shawn, which leads us to the final round of this exhibition match- Haohmaru vs. Kaede!
Galford *angered*: Hey! This isn't over yet! To hell with the rules, Kaede- let's finish this right here, right now!
*Haohmaru places his arm on Galford's shoulder*
Haohmaru: Let it go, Galford. You didn't have a snowball's chance in hell in the first place, so why do you think your odds would be any better now? Besides, it's my turn to face him now, so stand aside and watch how a real samurai gets the job done. And if I can't finish the job, I'll leave it up to you whether or not you want to face him next time. How does that sound?
Galford: You're right, Haohmaru. I'm sorry, I guess I let my emotions get the better of me. Now get out there and raise hell for that swordsman! And yes, I would like another crack at Kaede if you do lose.
Haohmaru: Who said anything about me losing? *steps into the ring*
Galford: Yeah! That's the spirit, Haohmaru!
Nakoruru: Are you feeling okay, Galford?
Galford: Don't worry, I'm fine now. Let's sit back and watch this duel, shall we?
Nakoruru: Yes.
Charles Geo: Man oh man! The crowd's getting pumped up for this final showdown! Who will be the samurai supreme? Let's find out- right now!
*both opponents meet each other in the center of the ring and bow*
FINAL ROUND- FIGHT!
Right at the signal, both swordsman charged toward each other and began swinging their swords. Each combatant blocked, parried, or countered the other's attacks. The exchange continued for three minutes. At that point, Haohmaru fired off his "Senpu Retsudan" (mini-cyclone), while Kaede launched off an electric bolt; both attacks cancelled each other out. The two then dashed toward one another and used their jumping attacks (Haohmaru- "Sogetsu-Zan"/ Kaede- "Morning Star Wind Fang"). Again, both of their attacks were cancelled out. From there, the exchange of parries, blocks, and counters resumed.
Meanwhile, over in the Samurai Shodown team's corner of the ring, Rimururu awoke.
Rimururu: Hey, what's going on... whoa!
Enthralled by the battle taking place in front of her, Rimururu fell silent as she observed the duel between Haohmaru and Kaede.
Back in the ring, the battle continued to pick up intensity, with the volley of sword swings continuing for another four minutes. Just then, each combatant spotted an opening and unleashed their SDMs (Haohmaru: "Tenha Danku Retsuzan"/ Kaede: "Morning Star Lance"). Both super desperation attacks collided at the same time, enveloping the stadium in a bright flash for half a minute. When the flash disappeared and the dust settled, both opponents stood at opposite ends of the ring, frozen in their after-strike poses. A few seconds later, a very large cut appeared across Haohmaru's chest, bringing him down to his knees, while Kaede received a wound so large and deep that his upper half slid to the ground. Kaede had been chopped in half.
Haohmaru: Sorry to see you split.
Moriya *shocked*: KAEDE!!!
Hibiki *horrified*: Oh God! So much blood! No...
Akari *shocked*: KAEDE-KUN!!! *starts crying*
Galford *shocked*: Why, Haohmaru? Why'd you have to kill him?! Say it isn't so!!
Nakoruru *shocked*: He didn't deserve to die like that!
Haohmaru: Look, I'm sorry, but it was he or I. There's nothing I can do now.
*Rimururu starts crying*
Hibiki *to Nakoruru*: Isn't there anything you can do?!
Nakoruru *to Hibiki*: I wish I could, but the spirits of nature can't revive the dead.
*pan to the shocked reactions of various King of Fighters characters*
Shawn Neo: Ladies and gentlemen, in all my years as a commentator for the King Of Fighters, I've witnessed people get badly injured, stabbed, or beaten to death, but never have I seen anything of this magnitude. Not once have I seen anyone get sliced in half. This is just surreal.
Charles Geo: On behalf of the King Of Fighters staff, I'd like to sincerely apologize for the scene you've just witnessed. Those of you with young children at home may want to turn off your TVs right now and console them as best you can.
Nakoruru *to Dr. Brown*: How can you remain smug at a time like this?!?
Dr. Brown: Simple- I've got the power to alter time in my hands. Behold: the Chrono-Remote! *presses Rewind button on remote*
Using the Rewind button on his remote, Dr. Brown returned Kaede to normal.
Nakoruru *to Dr. Brown, amazed*: You did it! You brought him back to life!
Kaede *surprised*: I'm alive- and whole! But how?
Dr. Brown: Both of you can thank the marvels of modern science.
Galford: Woo hoo! Look who's back in the saddle!
Rimururu: YAY! It's a miracle!
*pan to the awed reactions of various King of Fighters characters*
Moriya, Hibiki, and Akari ran up to Kaede.
Moriya: Welcome back to the land of the living, Kaede.
Hibiki: I'm happy to see you alive and well!
Akari: I thought you were a goner for sure!
Shawn Neo: WOW! If I didn't see it with my own eyes, I'd say I was hallucinating! Kaede has been brought back to life and back in one piece!
Charles Geo: To be able to bear witness to an actual revival is truly indescribable. This moment's going in the record books not only as the first person to be split in two, but also the first time someone was both killed and brought back to life inside the ring! This historic moment will be discussed for years to come.
At that moment, Kaede walked toward Haohmaru.
Kaede: I guess this means you're the greatest samurai of all time. I'm honored I could fight someone with such incredible skill.
Haohmaru: You put up one hell of a fight, Kaede. That was one of the best duels I've had in ages. I'm both pleased and impressed!
Shawn Neo: And there you have it, ladies and gentlemen! The winner of the King Of Fighters 2001 exhibition match- the Samurai Shodown Team!!
*crowd cheers and applauds as the Samurai Shodown team stands in the center of the ring while striking their victory poses*
Shawn Neo: If this exhibition match was only a hint at what's to come, then I'm sure we're in store for a whole lot more excitement, as the first round of the King Of Fighters 2001 tournament is about to get underway!
Charles Geo: We'll be spending the next few minutes getting things primed and ready to go, but after this short intermission, we'll start the first match immediately! Stay tuned!
The exhibition match has come to a close, and the Samurai Shodown team is victorious. But now that the preliminary shots have been fired, what sort of fireworks are set to go off over the course of the King Of Fighters 2001 tournament? See what happens when the fuse is lit in the next pulse- pounding chapter!
Moriya *to Akari*: Why did you yell "Kaede-kun"?
Akari: Rimururu bragged about having a boyfriend, so I had to stake my claim so that she wouldn't make fun of me.
Kaede *to Akari*: Idiot. What makes you think I'd be in love with someone who can't even sit still for more than five minutes?
Hibiki *to Akari*: And what makes you so sure you're ever going to get a boyfriend? That lummox Juzoh follows you everywhere, so I'm guessing he's the closest you'll ever get to having a boyfriend.
Akari *heartbroken*: You are all very mean!! *runs off crying*
TO BE CONTINUED...
And that does it for the second part of this cavalcade of mayhem. Next time, the first round of the KOF 2001 tournament kicks off with a bang, as the Hero Team and Ikari Warriors grapple for supremacy, while Shingo tries to lead the Gekiganger 4 Team past the Psycho Soldier Team. Who will make it out in one piece, and who will leave in pieces? Find out in the third chapter of the King Of Fighters 2001 EX: Tournament Edition- "Holding Out For A Hero".
Ladies and gentlemen, I will be taking an extended leave from my fanfic writing for the next few months (possibly until June or July) so that I can concentrate on graduating from college and earning my Bachelor's Degree in Liberal Arts. That said, it will be awhile before you see the next chapter of this story. In the meantime, do continue to send any and all feedback to insaneben@yahoo.com. See you next time, everybody!