Chapter 1.

A New Start

Pebbles scattered across this barren desert wasteland as a small foot aimlessly kicked each one out of the way. The young boy's tattered dingy cape swayed while the wind pulled the fabric into each desired direction. His stern features quickly changed into smug confidence, a smirk plastered on his light caramel face. His stance grew wide, one foot back-stepped as hands went up then down, deep breaths given before an ancient, once forbidden legendary attack was performed. Hands went out in his front while forming a reach pose as he shouted out loud in a booming voice "En'ochor Voyte!" (In-oh-core Voy-eh-tay) (Rising Star!)

A massive burst of energy came forth causing a major depression throughout miles of sand. Particles of white light shot forth, glimmering majestically in sunlight. A slender young woman now stood at his side, arms crossed with that not so familiar smooth voice saying "At last, you mastered her technique. Now, it will be your turn, Haru."

A familiar apparition formed in their front obviously pleased that both apprentices could now carry out her vision. She gave a wicked grin that conveyed primarily good intentions. Her smoky, echoing voice resonated throughout the surrounding area, beaming with delight.

"No longer shall we wait."

...

Chun-Li sat with Guile, Ryu, Cammy and Ken at her and Guile's local headquarters, conversing about what had happened several tournmanets ago. They'd rather Naia not return since she'd been nearly beaten to a pulp years back but she had to have been at least twenty years old by this point. Then there was that young boy to consider. Perhaps they'd both developed new techniques and strategies to better themselves. As for Sagat, no one had a clue as to where his whereabouts may be. To everyone's surprise, Ryu the stern, stoic silent one spoke first.

"If we are to host this year's tournament, new rules and regulations should be in effect. Can we all agree on this?"

"Well yeah, as long as it's nothin' like that damn monster's had been. That girl Naia had barely any experience whatsoever. For God sake's, she was basically performing self defense techniques."

Li arched an annoyed brow Ken's way, retorting "After what that "monster" had put her through, can you really blame her? She suffered tremendous pain from both him and his appalling followers. Not to mention how the only way she could defend herself was by living in illusions with the help of a deity for months. He had forced her into that tournament which surely caused further trauma AFTER she had managed to escape. We should ensure her safety and others like her when and if they decide to come."

Cammy looked down in frustration, quietly adding "By some miracle, she was lucky enough to avoid his brainwashing. She must be something special..."

"Which is why we have to get her to come back. Both her and the young boy."

Everyone turned their attention to Guile, agreeing with nods of their heads. Cammy made one last comment.

"Of course we should interview each applicant to ensure their safety. After all they will be coming of their own free will. This time."

They sat for a moment in brief silence reaching a swift conclusion. Li enthusiastically shouted "It's decided then! The tournament will be broadcasted across radio stations and televised worldwide next week!"

...

M. Bison's boot heels clicked against cold, metal floors while proceeding to a once arch-nemesis, choosing it best to cast major differences aside. As soon as his air-craft lowered to ground level a dark, sinister thought came instantly to mind. Bahtus already knew what those pests were planning. How they wanted to take over hosting HIS tournament. How dare they...

Within an hour's time he at last had arrived to whom he once considered an awful enemy. He stepped out of his aerial vehicle walking confidently towards a dark cave sheltered within an even darker, condensed wooded area. A low growling voice signaled for ceasement of further moment.

"What brings you here, beast?"

"Oh, I believe we can work together on this...informal occasion. Surely an agreement can be reached among us three, right Juri?"

The sporadic woman poked her head out from behind the tall, broad shouldered man, saying in her mischievous smokey voice " 'Course. This'll feel more than pleasurable."

Akuma emerged from his dark cave, red eyes glowing in the dim moonlight. He frowned while looking the two over already pondering the reason for this out of place visit. Whatever the reason it couldn't be trusted. That's why if things went wrong, they'd be the ones who payed. With their lives.