Episode 23: A Story of Hope
Well, we're in for an interesting one this time, aren't we?
1602jaw: You'll learn today why he's no joke. And thanks again for the commercial.
Thenewsubwayguy: Thanks for the contributions. And if you thought what you learned lore wise lease time was crazy, you're in for a ride today.
ThelastCyberKnight: My boi, many thanks again.
omega5342: Thank you, my good man.
Happiness studios: Well, I've went ahead and addressed your comments not too long ago. And yes, it was the fourth aftermath. Very plot heavy this time.
MonkeyBot54: Congrats on catching up. I also think we could all use a cool action figure from a cheesy sellout toy commercial.
And now, let's get this going! Hi-ho Silver, awaaaaaaaaay!
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"Last time on Total Drama Infinite 2, our contestants had a nice change of pace as they became teachers at the Garreg Mach Officer's Academy. And by nice, I meant crazy. Student Dimitri was out for blood, as Edward's arrival and experiences reminded the prince of his tragic past with Gjira. The two slugged it out on the battlefield, but Edward used that weird orange fusion thing to win the battle. The group departed, with Dimitri having a renewed sense of stability, while Harley Quinn unceremoniously got the boot. We're down to only eight players, and by the end of the day, it'll drop to seven. The heat is on in today's exciting new episode of Total Drama Infinite 2!"
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(Five days ago…..)
We see a man, passed out on a beach. He laid face down, his raft sitting nearby, and in poor condition.
"ហេ!" A Khmer man said in his native tongue. He poked the guy, trying to wake him up. "អ្នក មិន អី ទេ ឬ?"
The guy groans as he wakes up, and takes in his surroundings.
"Damn, that was one crazy storm." He said. He then looked over at the Khmer man. "Uh, hello? I'm Scott. Scott Pilgrim. Do you happen to know where I am? I was on a raft (long story), waiting to be picked up, and there was this monsoon. Can you help me out?"
The guy tilts his head in confusion. Clearly, he did not know English.
"Well, crap." Scott muttered. "Gotta find someone who can help me figure out where the heck I am. And I'm starving. Hey, pal. You got something to eat?"
The man still looked at Scott with utter confusion.
"Oh god, what am I gonna do?"
Scott feels a tap on his shoulder. Turning around, he sees a young boy with black hair, and was shirtless, blindfolded, wearing red pants, and has a weird, iron belt, along with combust arm pads.
"I think I can help you out." The boy said. "But I need you to come with me."
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Back in the present day, we see Susie and Tari in first class. The two are gaming against each other in some fighting game. Susie growls as Tari wins yet again.
"CRAP!" She yelled as she slammed the controller down. "It's not fair! How do you always win?!"
"Um…sorry?" Tari said. "Gaming is a Meta Runner's bread and butter, you know. It comes incredibly easy to me. If you want, I can tutor you a bit."
"Eh, forget it. You'd still be better regardless. I'll just stick to doing what I do best: thrashing and hitting things hard. Anyway, let's get something to eat. I'm hungry."
Tari nods. "Sure."
The two get up and proceed to grab some snacks, but see a large orange puddle in the walkway.
"Freaking runt can't even clean up his spills." Susie growls.
"Hey! Don't call me a runt!" The puddle yelled.
The two nearly jump out of their skins..
"Wait a minute." Tari said, hearing the voice. "Edward?"
The puddle rises up, looking less like a liquid and more like semi solid gelatin or slime. It takes the shape of Edward, transformed into his fusion.
"What the hell is going on?!" Susie asked. "You nearly gave us a heart attack!"
"Whoa, that's awesome!" Theo beamed. "He's like jelly!"
Tari pokes Edward, seeing his orange body is the same consistency as SCP 999.
"Freaky."
The two separate, with both Edward and Tickles looking a bit tired.
"Sorry." The alchemist says. "I was testing and experimenting with this power, and I'm finding some new things about it. When we fuse, I'm practically made of the same stuff. Figure I can use my smarts to get creative with that. Somehow."
Tickles proceeds to inhale an entire bag of M&Ms.
"My god, that little guy is too cute." Susie said, resisting the cuteness and failing.
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Out in economy class, the five other contestants sat, each doing their own thing. The "Dragon Boyz'' were all three chatting with each other on one side.
On the other side sat Miu and Waluigi. Miu was busy screwdriving into one of her attentions, while Waluigi eyed everyone nervously. Nobody really took notice of the lanky purple partygoer.
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"Waluigi can't help but feel on edge." Waluigi explained. He holds up eight fingers. "There are only eight people left. Some of them have already partnered up. Edward and Tari are definitely inseparable, while you got Kiryu, Terry, and Joe in another. What we had with Harley crumbled faster than a cookie. That leaves me, Susie, and Miu as sitting ducks. Regardless of what's been going on, Waluigi still has his eye on the prize. Maybe he could try to join one of these other groups. Hopefully Edward is up to the idea."
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"I tell you guys, I'm having a hard time thinking on who to vote next." Terry told his two friends. "Most of the other people left were good teammates at one point."
"Trust me, I feel the same." Kiryu said. "And after thinking about it, I think we should go for Edward."
Both Terry and Joe gasped.
"But why?!" Joe asked.
"Trust me, I hold no ill will to him." Kiryu explained. "We were also teammates before I got swapped. And while I'm rooting for his inevitable bout with Gjira, he's the biggest threat here."
"How so?" Terry asks.
"He got second place last season. He's definitely someone we should be keeping an eye on. He could probably settle this Gjira stuff whether he's competing or not."
"I…never would have expected this from you, Kazzy."
"I thought youd feel like that. I dont hate the guy or anything, I'm just thinking realistically."
Joe and Terry both looked at each other. They had no problems with him, but he had a point. End of the world or not, there still had to be a winner.
"Okay, pal." Terry says. "I trust you and your judgement."
"Guess I'm in, too." Joe adds. "I guess sometimes you have to break eggs."
Nearby, Waluigi was nonchalantly eavesdropping on their conversation. (Miu was in her own little world so she wasn't paying attention to anyone or anything else.)
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"That's perfect!" Waluigi said, having a eureka moment. "If they're gunning for Ed, Waluigi could help him out in the next challenge, gain his trust, and convince him and Tari to help vote off someone else!"
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"Hey, you shrimps." Gura said as she walked in. "You all had better get ready. We're about to land. And we've got a challenge that'll make you go 'oh nyo.'"
The shark girl then walks away.
"What's her appeal?" Joe wondered.
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Shortly after, the plane lands at a clearing near a river. Nearby, a small cluster of fishing villages lay around the river. in front of them lay a large thicket of jungle.
The contestants had finally exited the jet and got a look at their surroundings.
"Hmm. Seems very quaint." Kiryu said, admiring the countryside.
"It's hotter than the devil's balls." Miu groaned. She was very quickly succumbing to the humidity. "Where the fuck are we, anyway?"
"Welcome to Siem Reap, Cambodia." Chris said. "Most famous for the Angkor Wat temples. That makes Siem Reap a popular tourist location. Well, if you also factor in the museums, traditional Apsara dance performances, a bird sanctuary, and cosmopolitan dining and drinking scene. But instead, we're focusing on the jungle temples."
"Sounds about right." Susie said.
"Regardless, Angkor Wat is the most popular tourist attraction here. Unfortunately, both locals and tourists haven't been able to go around there for a couple of weeks."
"Huh, where have I heard that before?" Kiryu said sarcastically.
It was then Edward had a flashback to Transylvania. Nobody could go near the Hoia Baciu forest for one reason.
Gjira's forces were prowling around.
Ed was not in a mood to remember that night further, but one thing was clear.
"It has to be no coincidence." He thinks to himself. "They're here. They have to be."
And we're going to go where no one else can, correct?" Terry assumes.
"You hit the nail on the head, Terry." Chris said. "Nearby, the jungle that leads to Angkor Wat lies ahead. Your task? A treasure hunt."
The host pulls out a large diamond shaped emerald.
"You'll find a bad boy that looks like this somewhere at the religious monument. Find it, and get back here. First one to do so wins immunity."
"There's no rule that says anything about taking from someone else if they find it, is there?" Kiryu asked.
"Theft is allowed." Chris answered. "All that matters is who gets here first with the emerald in their possession."
"Heh. Shouldn't be too hard to steal it off one of the others here." A few of the contestants thought.
"So that's it?" Tari asked. "No catch? No traps or anything?"
"Nope. Just get to the temple, get the emerald, and skedaddle it back here. "
"Uh, Chris?" Edward said.
"What is it, Ed?"
"I'm just gonna go out on a limb here and say that I think the reason no one's been able to go around Angkor Wat is because of Gjira. I'm willing to bet there's people here that work for him. Maybe we should do a different challenge. Preferably in another country."
"Bit too late for that, pipsqueak. But hey, that'll provide you with an obstacle way better than what I would have thought up. The viewers eat this kinda stuff up."
Ed facepalmed at the host's reaction.
"Ugh, you can't be serious."
"Wait, are you sure they're here?!" Joe asked worriedly. "I didn't think we'd see them again so soon!"
"Relax, man." Terry tells him. "We're pretty strong. We can handle whatever they throw at us."
"Need I remind you we just barely got out of Towa City alive?!" Miu told the fighter. "And Totto Land?! You fucking died then!"
"C'mon, that was a different situation. This has to be way easier."
"God, I hope so." Susie adds.
"You guys done bickering?" Chris asked with indifference. "Because the challenge starts now!"
Chris sounds off an airhorn and the group quickly run into the jungle.
As soon as they enter the jungle, Edward quickly gets everyone's attention.
"Guys, I need you all to listen real quickly before we go any further. I wasn't joking about the Gjira thing. We need to be careful out here."
"We know, man." Susie told him. "You tell us this like we can't handle it. Now, if you'll excuse me, I've got a gem to find."
The monster teen then runs off on her own.
"Think we should get going too, guys." Terry told his friends. The trio then leave as well, leaving Ed, Tari, Miu, and Waluigi. (And Theo and Tickles.)
"What about you two?" Edward asked both Miu and Waluigi.
"Waluigi will probably stick around with you and Tari." Waluigi said. "Waluigi knows full well he ain't strong enough. Thats why he's putting his trust in you."
Edward was actually quite surprised by his choice.
"Wow, really? You? Did not see that coming."
"Well, while you three are busy, I'm gonna go ahead and split." Miu says, as she leaves.
The three left stand in awkward science for a moment.
"So…" Waluigi said. "What do you say we go find that gem, huh?"
"Uh….yeah.
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"Of all people, Waluigi wanted to work with us." Tari said. "Never thought I'd see the day."
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"Waluigi didn't expect that to go so smoothly." Waluigi said. "Now, Waluigi just needed to find the right moment to tell Edward that he's being targeted."
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After this, the hunt was on. Time was ticking, and unfortunately, they all had little luck finding Angkor Wat. The fact they lacked a map and compass (Thanks, Chris), played a big part.
It had now been an hour since the search began.
We now see Glass Joe running for his life for some reason. He stops and sits down, resting his back on a tree.
"Why didn't they follow me?" Joe said as he was catching his breath.
He then has a flashback to prior events.
Flashback Start
The trio walked a bit aimlessly in the forest, until Terry saw something in a tree.
"Hey, check it out. I see a bear sleeping up there."
Indeed, as they saw a dark furred bear dozing on a branch.
"IT'S A BEEEEEEEEEAR!" Joe screamed in fear.
"Oh, it's just a sun bear." Kiryu said casually. "They're actually pretty shy and reclusive so-"
Joe didn't listen to the explanation as he had already begun running for the hills.
"Joe, wait up!" Terry called out.
End of Flashback
"Was I too fast for them?" Joe wondered. "Bears are heavyweight killing machines after all. Last thing I'd want is to be mauled to shreds."
His body jolted once he heard some talking, and it was coming from behind him.
The boxer quietly peeks behind the tree, and he sees three people in a heated conversation. One of them was a dark haired, spectacled guy. He wore a white trench coat, black pants, and a katana at his hip. The two guys he talked to were dressed the same. They wore small helmets with black horns on the sides, an open black cloak that exposed their bare chest with three straps on the abs, frilled shoulder pads with a furred cape and long black pants with knee pads and black boots. The two are armed with battle axes.
"We're sorry, master Gideon!" One of them pleaded. "We're looking as hard as we can!"
"I better see some results pretty damn soon!" Gideon spat. "Or I'm gonna send you meatheads to an early grave! You may be Gjira's soldiers, but you don't scare me. You bunch are a dime a dozen. So get back out there and find Elric and his friends. I know they're here!"
Joe quickly turned back and began to breathe erratically.
"Those are Gjira's guys alright!" He thinks. "I gotta warn the others! Unless…."
Joe decided to himself that maybe he could do something more. Even though he's been training, he's still the physically weakest contestant left. But that doesn't mean he should let them do all the work. He got an idea that was risky, but the payoff might outweigh it.
The two soldiers split up, and go their separate ways as they look for the cast. Joe sneaks and quietly tails one of them. Surely, there's more soldiers than just these two walking about. He quietly sneaks behind the plants and bushes, and already questioning his choices.
"Why am I doing this?" Joe groaned to himself. He clutched a large branch he held tightly. "You're risking your life and you're still going through with it."
The soldier stopped for a second to sit down. Bingo.
Joe leaps up and whacks the soldier upside the head with the branch. The guy falls unconscious, hitting the ground face first
"That was…easier than I thought." Joe sighed with relief. "Now for phase two."
Joe drags the body into the bushes and quickly puts on the soldier's uniform.
"Heh heh, I can be resourceful too." Joe said as he admired the outfit. "Now, to infiltrate."
"Hey, there you are!" A voice slurred.
Joe turns to see another soldier wobbling over to him. He could smell the booze on his breath. Clearly, the guy was drinking on the job.
"Gideon's calling for us. So get yer butt back to camp!"
"Uh….y-yeah." Joe stammered. "Lead the way, pal."
"I hope this works."
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(Edward, Waluigi, Tari)
For this group, they were having about as much luck as Aqua normally would.
"Argh, we're getting nowhere!" Edward yelled. "Thanks so much, Chris! A map would have been useful! Preferably with a compass!"
"Maybe the Elder Tomato has an answer." Theo said as he pulled out an elderly tomato.
"If you're stuck, perhaps you should restart the level from the beginning." The Elder Tomato said.
"Well, so much for that." Theo groans.
"Is there anything Waluigi can do to help you chill out, Ed?" Waluigi asked. "Perhaps a bottle of water?"
The alchemist raised an eyebrow as he heard this.
"You're uncharacteristically nice today." Edward said. "First you offer to come with us, and then you offer me water? What're you up to?"
Waluigi sighs. "Look, Waluigi is just looking out for you. Some of the other contestants are gunning for you."
"What?!"
"It's true. Waluigi heard it from Kiryu. That's why Waluigi thought he should tell you. And you know, maybe team up."
"How do we know you're not lying?" Tari asked skeptically.
"Waluigi swears on his life! He swears on his future chances of getting into Smash that he heard Kiryu say that!"
After a moment of thought, Edward said "Okay, I believe you. Makes sense that some others are still determined to win."
"Well, if one of us wins, we should vote him out." Waluigi declared.
"We were on the same team." Tari said, sounding a bit regretful of it. "But it is still a competition. Sometimes, sacrifices have to be made."
"You know, I bet Isabelle would be happy seeing you be a big help for me." Edward said.
Waluigi blushed at that, but quickly tried to play it cool.
"Uh, yeah, whatever. Let's just find that gem."
"You mean this one?"
An unfamiliar voice sent shivers down their spines. They slowly turn around and see the emerald. Problem is, it was currently in Zandrill's hands.
"Wah-t is the big idea, punk?!" Waluigi yelled. "Give us that gem!"
Zandrill chuckles. "Don't you know it's proper etiquette to introduce yourself before you go ranting and raving?"
"Who are you?!" Tari angrily asked.
"Seems you brats weren't listening to what I just said. No matter. I'm Zandrill, a close ally of Gjira's."
"So you're Zandrill?!" Edward asked.
"You've heard of this guy?" Waluigi asked.
"Yeah." Ed answered. "He's technically not part of Gjira's crew. He's a member of the Black Hole alien species, and a member of a group called Antics."
"Seems like someone has done their homework." Zandrill mused. "But I'm afraid I have to cut the fun short. I'm not in a killing mood, but that might change. Hand over the SCP, and you'll get the emerald.
Edward looked at Tickles, who shook his head.
"Yeah, that's gonna be a negative, ghost rider."
Very slightly, Zandrill's eye twitched.
"Perhaps I didn't make myself clear, brat. I was issuing an order. Give me the SCP…NOW!"
"We already said no!" Tari yelled. "So buzz off before we have to use force!"
"I've got plans of my own that aren't exactly aligned with Gjira, but we demand that creature!"
Waluigi proceeds to stick his tongue out at the man.
"BLEAH! We ain't giving you nothing! So back off, punk!"
Now Zandrill wasn't having any more of their shit. He forms a ball of Black Hole energy in his hand, and fires it at them.
But, quick as a flash, the ball is sliced clean in half and dissipated into thin air.
"What?!"
Leaping out in front of everyone was Scott and the kid from earlier in the chapter. Both currently had swords drawn.
"Scott Pilgrim, at your service." Scott said, flashing a cheeky grin.
"You!" Zandrill gasped at the young lad. "Steam Lad! We meet again!"
Steam Lad just looks at Zandrill and campy flips him off, pissing the guy off.
"Wait…who are you two?!" Edward asked.
Steam Lad turns to Edward and smiles.
"Edward Elric, I've been wanting to meet you for some time. My name is Steam Lad."
Before Ed could respond, Steam Lad draws his sword at Zandrill.
"Zandrill! Leave my home now! Or else!"
"You don't seem to know who you're talking down to!" Zandrill warns. "We've got some of your friends held hostage at our camp!"
"You what?!" Edward gasped.
"Relax, dude." Scott tells him. "We got this. Well help them. Steam kid, you and Edward get out of here!"
"Just what the hell is going on?!" Edward asked.
Steam Lad grabs Ed by the hand and they run off.
"I'll explain everything! Scott and your friends need to drive Zandrill away from us!"
"Get back here, you brats!" Zandrill ordered. "They're making off with the SCP!"
"I think you've got bigger problems, "tall, pale and ugly!'" Waluigi taunts, as he twirled the emerald on his hand.
"You cheating little-HOW DID YOU STEAL THAT FROM ME?!"
"Nobody cheats better than Waluigi! Shouldn't have been distracted!"
"You guys follow me." Scott tells them. "We'll find your friends, and deal with him and….Gideon." His voice falters a bit at the name. "We'll kill two birds with one stone!"
The three of them then run, with Zandrill chasing after them.
"What about Edward? Where is that kid taking him?!" Tari asked.
"Beats me." Scott replied. "That kid said he needed him for something important. But right now, we need to bring both of these groups together!"
Tari quickly hands Waluigi one of the tomes Lysithea had given her.
"Here! If he catches up to us, you better be ready to defend yourself as well!"
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(Base Camp)
Joe is escorted by the drunk soldier to the enemy camp. Some tents were set up, with a campfire that was currently put out. About a dozen or so soldiers were going about their own business.
"Huh. So this is the place, huh?" Joe said. "Less fancy than I expected."
"ALL RIGHT, YOU SACKS OF CRAP! STAND IN FORMATION!"
Gideon's voice boomed across the camp. Quickly, the small army stood in two lines, side by side and facing each other. It took Joe longer than the others, but he finally managed to get in line and look inconspicuous.
Gideon walks out in front of both lines, his katana drawn. He paces back and forth like a drill sergeant, glaring at the group. They all sweat nervously, anticipating what he'd do.
"Look at you lot." He spat. "Worthless piles of stool. I could kill you all on the spot if I wanted to. You all wouldn't be missed."
"What the hell has gotten up your ass?" One of the soldiers complained.
Gideon quickly takes his sword and slices the guy clean in half, top to bottom. As the halves plop to the ground, Gideon laughs maniacally.
"You all see that?! That's how easily I could kill you! I dare somebody to try and cut me in half. As for my problem? I just find it enjoyable to be an evil dickhead."
Witnessing this, Joe began to shake more intensely.
"I may have messed up big time!" He thinks. "Why did I think I could help?!"
Gideon takes notice of Joe's panicky nature, and upon closer inspection, something feels off. Sure, he viewed these guys as faceless mooks, but something about this guy…..didn't feel familiar.
The villain walks up in front of him, and Joe has his head down in fear, shaking like a leaf.
"Hey, beanpole!" Gideon said. "What's your name?!"
"I-it's classified." Joe squeaked.
"And your identification number?"
"It's classified."
"Why so jittery?"
"It's classified."
With curiosity, Gideon raises an eyebrow. "It's classified, huh?"
"Uh-huh."
Gideon grins, and proceeds to laugh. "Well, Mr. Classified, I've got a job for you."
"Huh?!"
"Bring in the prisoners!"
Some soldiers bring out an old fashioned cannon like you'd see on a pirate ship, and four hogtied hostages put in front of it.
Joe gasps when he sees the hostages were Kiryu, Terry, Miu, and Susie.
"Surprised, aren't you?" Gideon said mockingly. "They were dumb enough to get caught in our booby traps."
"Am I the only one turned on by this?" Miu asked.
Gideon looked at her with disgust.
"I'd say so, you little hussy. Keep that kinda talk out of this."
"No, I'm serious. All you're missing is some hot wax and a hot robot to pin me down and-"
"I SAID SHUT UP!"
The four obviously saw Joe in disguise, and almost said something to him. All there was was Kiryu giving Joe a quick nod of assurance.
"Um….w-what is the job you have for me?" Joe stuttered.
"It's simple." Gideon says real friendly like as he hands him a small box of matches. "I want you to blow these guys to kingdom come."
Joe gulped. "I don't know if I'm the guy for the job. Maybe you should ask someone else to do it."
Gideon drops the friendly act and points his sword dangerously close to Joe's neck.
"You better fucking do it." He said grimly. "Light the fuse and blow them up. Because if you don't, I'm gonna gut you like a trout. And then we're gonna kill them!"
"Real smooth, getting someone else to do your dirty work." Susie taunted Gideon. "How about you untie us and we settle this like men. Unless…you aren't man enough."
Gideon growls as he kicks Susie and Miu in the gut.
"Shut up, you stupid cows!" Gideon snapped. "I've had it with your back talk!"
"Ooohh, you're so freaking dead now, four eyes." Susie growled.
"Fight us like a real man, you coward!" Terry snapped. "I could take you!"
"So you're the one Geese was ranting on and on about, huh?" Gideon asked.
"Hold on! Geese?! You know Geese?!"
Gideon ignores him and looks back at Joe. "Do it. Either they die, or you do."
Joe trembles, the matches still in his hand. Meanwhile, the other soldiers begin to chant
"DO IT! DO IT! DO IT!"
The other contestants look at Joe with concern as he slowly approaches the cannon…..
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Moving back to Edward and Steam Lad, the duo finally reach a cave.
"So what are we doing here?" Edward asked. "I have to help the others."
"I'm gonna go help them." Steam Lad assures. "Right now, I need you to go see Torrica. He needs to talk to you."
"Okay, well where the heck is the guy?"
"Inside here: the Realm Without a Universe. I help guard it. And this land is my home, which I swore to protect."
"This isn't making sense, kid!" Ed snapped.
"You're just gonna have to trust me. I know we just met, but I swear it'll all make sense. Please, go inside the cave. Once you leave, you'll have all the answers you need."
Ed sighs defeatedly. "Alright. But once I'm done talking to this Torrica, I'm leaving and helping my friends."
"That's fine." Steam Lad says. "I wish you the best of luck. For now, I'm gonna help them out. So get going."
Edward walks inside the cave, parting ways with Steam Lad.
"I got a bad feeling about this, little guy." Edward tells Tickles, who was chilling on his shoulder. "It's probably a trap of some kind."
He walks further into the dark cave until the floor suddenly collapses beneath him. No doubt it was a hollow floor. Luckily, Edward was able to land on his feet and keep his SCP friend safe.
"What a drop." He pants, looking at the hole above.
With the exception of the hole, it was pitch black where he fell. He couldn't even see his hand in front of his face.
"This is already a bad idea." He groaned. "I gotta get outta here."
After looking around, he sees a faint light. A blue, glowing light illuminating in the distance.
"That might be a way out." He hypothesized.
He walks towards the light, watching his step along the way.
The closer he got, he could hear many voices. There were so many he couldn't make heads or tails of them.
Getting closer, he could see many blue glowing dots spreading over tge pitch darkness.
"Whoa…."
Ed and Tickles were mesmerized as the dots were a flock of butterflies flying everywhere, leaving dust in their wake.
He continued walking, hearing the many voices, until he saw something was following them.
It was a fox. Well, it had the shape of a fox. It's silhouetted body was made of black lines with the exception of the eyes.
Edward looked at the fox in stunned silence, while it calmly stared back at him.
"Uh…hello?"
"Greetings." The fox calmly replied, which shocked Ed.
"Who….are you? Are you Torrica? Where am I?"
"Many refer to me as Torrica, the cosmic creature of the universe. A watcher, a guide, and voice to many. You are in the Realm Without a Universe."
"Oh. Okay, then. I'm Edward Elric."
"I know who you are." Torrica replied. "And I've been expecting you. I also expect you are in a hurry."
"Uh, yeah. So if we can speed this up, I gotta get back to my friends."
"Hmm. You remind me very much of a young lady who I met in similar circumstances as yours some time ago. But if you want to leave, you must first go through a trip."
"Say what now?"
"A trip from the past to the future", He said, "One that could lead you to see the events behold before that day comes".
Edward groaned. "Now you're not making sense."
Torrica began to get up and move toward a straight direction, turning his head around to look at him, "Follow me".
Ed was doubtful, and looked at Tickles.
"You think it's a good idea to follow this guy?"
The SCP nods.
"Wait, really? Well, you haven't steered me wrong yet. Worst case scenario, that fox thing eats us. But at this point, it seems like we don't have a choice."
As he follows Torrica, Ed has a question, "Hey, what's with all these voices?"
"They are voices from other parallel worlds, as well as yours. From the past and future."
"Trust me pal, we're well aware of parallel worlds."
They saw a raft in the distance, along with the dark, misty sea. Torrica hopped on it and gestured to him to get on, as well.
Not questioning it, he got on it and the raft moved to the sea.
"This raft will lead to our next direction", Torrica said, laying down, "For now, we must let the raft do its job".
"Cool."
Edward kicks back and relaxes as the raft sails. They keep going until Ed sees something in the distance.
It was a huge hall, showing the middle of a round platform. Everything was metallic, clean and shiny. There were four statues surrounding the room. Four of them seem to represent animals as warriors or deities of some sort.
The screen that hangs on the wall has a pyramid shape, illuminating the room from its darkness.
"Trippy…" Edward said.
"Young man, you have piqued that creature's interest." Torrica tells Edward. "I think it's time you really learn what you're up against. It's time to learn the history of Gjira."
Ed did a double take at this.
"Gjira?! Why didn't you say so earlier?! That's who we're trying to stop!"
"It's imperative that you learn of Gjira's story. The knowledge here is key to success. But to do so, we must look into the past, and see what made him this way."
The screen on the wall illuminated, and Edward and Tickles watch footage of some planet as Torrica narrates.
"This is 22,000 years ago, on the planet Zygoga. Gjira's home planet."
"Zygoga was a planet of people that were known for their three form kaiju-like transformations. They're a war mongering and barbaric race that always anticipate the next fight. That has its downsides, as the planet is in its own constant civil war. Because of that, resources are sparse on Zygoga, so they genocide other planets and strip mine them of their resources."
We see a war torn city on Zygoga. Many bodies lay across the battlefield. We see a twelve year old Gjira, sitting on a rock. His dark hair was still very long, and he wore black boots and matching baggy pants. His body was covered in some scrapes and bruises, but overall, he looked disappointed.
"These guys are no fun." The young Gjira said. "I crave more combat. And I want it to be challenging."
"Unbelievable!" One of the still living allies said as he stared, shocked at this kid. "He's only twelve years old and he's already the perfect soldier!"
For years, Gjira ŵas a one man army since he was a child." Torrica explained. "For a race that craved combat, he always yearned for more, loving the feeling of being pushed to his absolute limits.
We now jump to six years later. We now transition now to a mountain castle. Inside a great hall, five figures were gathered around a roundtable.
In the center was a large and imposing man. His skin was cobalt blue, half of his face covered in burn scars. He wore black straps across his chest in an X shape, brown pants and matching boots, a spiked Mohawk shaped helmet, and a spiky, pencil thin mustache.
"Where is my son?!" He roared. "He should have been here an hour ago!"
"Gigus, please calm down." The guy next to him said.
Gigus protrudes a blade from his arm and cuts the guy's head off.
"Don't tell me what to do unless you're feeling like you wanna die! Spiega! Where is he?!"
"Chu-kukukuku!" The guy next to him known as Spiega, laughed. He was shorter, fatter, and bald with a toad shaped face. He wore dark robes like a wizard. Truly a repulsive sight. "Your men finally restrained him and are escorting him here, brother."
"Thank you." Gigus says. "Were it not for your Intel gathering skills, I'd kick you to the curb, family or not."
"B-but what about my skills in the dark arts?!" Spiega sputtered. "I'm the only one of our kind skilled in magic. I know spells beyond comprehension!
"Bah!" Gigus spat. "Magic is a pansy's way of fighting! We settle it like men. Fists or weapons! Might makes right, you little shit!"
Spiega grumbles angrily as Gigus continues to speak.
"Listen up! When Gjira gets here, he is not to know of the battle we've just returned from!"
"Yes…that battle." One of the guys said. He was completely covered head to toe in brown fur, with two large tusks visible. "We failed at taking over that planet. The amount of resources they had was immeasurable. Then that man showed up. What was his name again?"
"I believe his name was Yastor, Bamot." Spiega answered "But they called him the "Hero of Happiness." Word has it he sealed away an elder god bent on wiping out reality recently."
"We barely made it out alive." Gigus sighed, clutching the scar on his face. "Gjira should not find out about this. He'll seek him out for sure, and should he win, it'd ruin my reputation as a general."
"What's the matter?" Spiega snarked. "Afraid of your son? He's so strong he could probably overthrow you!"
Gigus was about to pummel the snot out of his brother, but in the nick of time, someone had arrived.
"General Gigus! We've brought him!"
Two soldiers carried in the now eighteen year old Gjira, restrained in chains. They toss him to the floor and exit the chamber.
"Father…." Gjira growled. "What's with the unwelcome welcome wagon?"
Gigus glared down at his monster of a son.
"Gjira…" Gigus began, "you are exceptionally strong for your kind. Since you were a mere toddler, you were capable of wiping out entire armies."
"Of course." Gjira said with pride. "It's in our very blood to fight. Day in and day out, I love war and conquest. But as of late, it's starting to lose its luster."
"That would be because you are TOO strong. Too much for anyone here to rein in. I won't lie that I feel no sympathy doing this, but-"
"What are you saying?!" Gjira asked.
"We're selling you off. To slave traders."
"YOU'RE WHAT?!" Gjira roared.
"Don't backtalk me you little snot! We paid them to take you off our hands and take you far away. Maybe some slave labor and physical abuse will shape you into a more controllable Zygogun. You're too much to handle."
"You're jealous! Jealous that I'm stronger than you! I could take you on right now, if only you undid the chains!"
Gigus raised his hand. "Enough! You're to be shipped off immediately. We've already paid them, and they're here to take you. I'd stay to see you off, but I don't want to pretend I love you. Begone!"
Gjira felt a mix of devastation and anger. He felt betrayed. He and his father never saw eye to eye, but this was going too far. All Gjira wanted was to fight, but his father wanted to get rid of him and hog all the fun.
As Gjira was hauled off, Spiega watched with a bit of pity for his nephew. But he licked at his lips with satisfaction.
"The time is now." Spiega thought. "Time to enact my plan. Strike while the iron is hot."
"Welp, it's about time I hit the road." Spiega said as he got up from his seat. " I have plans with those orphans I picked up."
"Whatever. Just get out of my face, you repugnant spell caster."
(Later…)
Gjira is seen being escorted by armed Zygogun soldiers. Ahead of him was an airship, where he'd be carted off and used as a slave.
Gjira was still frothing with rage over his father, and basically his entire race's betrayal, selling him out of fear. Fear for what they couldn't understand or challenge.
Just as he was about to be put onboard, dark magic arrows impale the soldiers escorting him.
"Huh?!"
Gjira looks to see Spiega waddling over to him, spellbook in hand.
"Uncle Spiega?!"
Spiega chants an unintelligible incantation and causes the ship to explode. He then chants something else and manages to undo Gjira's restraints.
"Yes, Gjira." Spiega said. "I'm here to save you from this fate your bastard of a father has set forth for you."
"You're damn right he is." Gjira growled. "Never letting me go with him on his battles, treating me like a problem to have around, and now this. This is the last straw!"
"What is it you want now?"
"I want him dead. I want them all dead. I want to lay waste to them and this planet! Then I'll leave, and conquer other worlds and seek fights greater than what I've seen! I feel like a big fish in a small pond, after all."
"Chu-kukukuku!" Spiega laughed. "I always liked you, boy. I fear you, but I also respect you. Look, I have a plan. And it will give us what we both want…."
Flashing forward a couple days, we see the planet in complete and utter turmoil. Cities all over the planer were rendered into a hellish landscape. Gjira was tearing the planet inside out, and no one was strong enough to challenge him or stop him.
In front of his family's mountain home, we see Gigus, Bamot, and many of the top ranking officers were all strung up and crucified for the world to see. Their bodies were beaten very badly.
"You two are dead when I get free!" Gigus said.
"Sorry brother." Spiega cackled. "You're not going anywhere except to an early grave! Consider this a lesson to you to respect family!"
"Gjira…how dare you turn on me?!"
Gjira looks at him, then silently pulls out a gun.
"I'm not sorry, father! The game was rigged from the start. For once, we do what I want! You're weak enough that this will finish you off."
Gigus's eyes grew wide.
"You wouldn't!"
"You know something, father? There's one thing our kind values above all else. We don't seek to be glorified in life, but in death. How we die is what we care about. So I'm going to give you lot a shameful death."
"Chu-kukukuku! Finish them off, boy!" Spiega ordered.
The crowd goes quiet as all we hear are gunshots.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
A few hours later, Gjira and Spiega got onboard a flying ship that would soon be Gjira's base of operations from then on.
"It's finally time." Gjira said with renewed vigor. He admires what would soon be his throne. "There's a whole universe for me to conquer and fight. I hope to fight the strongest one day, and die a legend."
Spiega walks in with a group of five children. Gjira sees the kids and grows curious.
"Who are they?"
"Oh, they're orphans I've been raising." Spiega answered. "Say hello to Ghido, Sura, Kogus, Radon, and Gameha. Your first crewmates."
"Is this the guy you told us about?" Sura asked.
"I would be." Gjira said proudly. "Call me Master Gjira. From here on out, you're my kids!"
"I couldn't help but overhear your little talk with yourself." Spiega said. "So you wish to fight the strongest? I think there's someone who fits that bill."
"Who?"
"The Hero of Happiness."
"Hero of Happiness?"
Spiega nods. "Your father and his crew fought him and lost. From my intel gathering, they are said to be a mighty fighter. They even sealed away the Scarlet King, a god that's so strong they could wipe out reality."
Gjira's eyes shone with childlike wonder.
"They sound so strong! I want one of them to be my final fight one day!"
"You have so much spirit in you, young man. So eager, so full of potential."
"So from then on, Gjira began to build his empire. He gathered an army, and engaged in battle with other planets and their best fighters." Torrica explained. "He formed his empire, and had fun on his adventures as he seemed the ultimate fight."
"I'm sorry to interrupt, but, who's Yastor?" Edward asked. "I know I've heard the name before."
"He was the Hero of Happiness before you, millennia ago." Torrica answered. "Another man from earth who bonded with SCP 999. He was kind and brave, albeit a bit too self sacrificing. After he passed, the creature wandered the earth for many years until the early remnants of the SCP Foundation found him."
Edward looks at Tickles again. "Wow, so you're really that old, huh?"
"He is, though still a child. It will be a very long time before he grows up to be an adult. Once that time comes, he'll be strong enough to not need a partner. Until then, it requires the cooperation of someone kind who understands the true feeling of despair."
"So...that's why you chose me."
"Regardless, let me finish telling you the story….Everything went well, until the day everything changed for Gjira."
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Back at the camp, Joe panicked as the pressure was beginning to overtake him with what he was about to do.
"DO IT! DO IT! DO IT!"
He looks over at his friends, and they don't appear to be afraid. They trusted him, and felt he'd make the right move that'd spare them all.
With hesitation, he lights the fuse. The crowd cheers as time ticks down for the fuse to finish.
Joe gulps, and puts the next part of his plan into action.
Using all of his might, he somehow managed to push the cannon up and flip it to the other side, now aiming at Gideon and the soldiers. There was no time for them to get out of the way.
"You little rat!" Gideon snarled.
BOOOM!
The cannonball fired, and the group were engulfed in a large explosion.
"Way to go, French Press." Susie said as Joe quickly tried to undo their restraints. "Knew you wouldn't let us die. Where'd you get the strength to push that thing?"
"It was probably the adrenaline." Joe said. "Don't think I could do that a second time."
"Regardless, that was pretty dope." Miu said. "Lets get the fuck outta here before they-"
She spoke too soon, as the smoke cleared, and Gideon was still standing. As for the soldiers, not so much. Gideon was scuffed up and one of the lenses on his glasses was broken.
"You traitorous son of a bitch!" Gideon growls. "I knew you were a fake! Now you're all dead!"
"Bring it, punk!" Terry said as he tightened his gloves. "We'll make quick work outta you!"
Just then, we see Tari, Waluigi, Theo, and Scott burst out onto the scene as they were running from Zandrill. The accidentally bump into their friends.
"Where have you guys been?" Kiryu asked.
"Don't ask." Tari groaned. "What happened here?"
"Well, well, well." Gideon said with glee upon seeing Scott. "If it isn't dear old Scott Pilgrim. Now I get to kill two birds with one stone today, once we find Elric."
"Gideon!" Scott yelled.
"Friend of yours?" Waluigi inquired.
"Not even close. This guy is a manipulative psycho."
Finally, Zandrill managed to catch up to the group.
"Seems as though they did the work for us." Zandrill said with satisfaction. "All of them in one place."
"I want first crack at them, pal." Gideon told his partner. He draws his sword and runs towards Joe. "I'll start with you, you weak little pansy!"
In the nick of time, Steam Lad appeared, and blocked the sword with his own!
"Steam Lad!" Both Waluigi and Tari said.
Steam Lad "looks" over at Gideon and Zandrill.
"Leave my home! Now!"
Scott takes out his Sword of Understanding. "I don't think they're listening, little guy. We'll just have to beat them up until they leave! Are you guys with me?!"
The other contestants cheer as they ready themselves for a fight.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
(The Realm Without a Universe)
We now transition many many years later, with a much older and experienced Gjira, looking closer to his present day look.
Inside a black pyramid shaped spaceship, Gjira sat in a room with three other interesting individuals. One looked very much like a mummy, while the other two were different women. One was dressed in Egyptian robes, with a staff, necklace, and a cobra circlet on her head. The other was a long, dark haired woman in a more revealing attire, wearing a red and gold slim armored outfit with a long cape.
"These people with Gjira are Mumm Ra, Namora, and Cherieng." Torrica explained. "The group got into a heated argument about a rare stone. Gjira hoped it'd hold keys to finding the Scarlet King or the Hero of Happiness."
"Are you certain this being is important to our access?", Namora asked in a doubtful manner, "To me, it sounds like you wanted something to give you more satisfaction".
Gjira, not wanting to be seen as selfish, replied, "I assure you, my dear. This being could benefit all of us, not just me".
As his reveal of Gjira personal project interest Mumm ra, he began to ask the other two, believing they have something to confess.
"Cherieng, Namora, do you have anything to say?" Mumm Ra asked, wanting to move on with a different subject.
"My influence managed to form a cult of some sort in a different world", Namora replied, "I was hoping to expand on it, in my conquest".
"I am already working on a war machine", Cherieng explained, "One that is more advanced and greater, Mumm Ra".
"Your reports intrigue me", Mumm ra comment, then staring at Cherieng with uncertainty, "But there is one I have some doubts. Cherieng, I suspect some kind of treachery, by your weapons alone."
"Treachery? Nonsense", She said, in a calm manner, "I have no real intention of using the weapon for my own personal gain. Just like Gjira".
"Hmmm, good".
Just then, a man in a blue suit and red hair came in, bowing down to him and his guest, "Lord Mumm Ra, we have managed to track down two power stones".
This surprises them, as their efforts seem to be useless now that Mumm Ra crew were the first to find it.
"Oh really, Leo?" Mumm Ra asked.
"Yes, Soul Stone, my Lord", He replied, "We managed to retrieve it without any damage. It was located somewhere on an island".
"Good", Mumm ra said, "The other power stone?"
"We manage to track down another, my lord", Leo continued, "Someone is bidding off the Spirit Stone. We believe this certain individual is name Mon*star".
"Mon*star, hmmm?" Mumm Ra knew of this man, before.
"Shall we send in your enforcers?" Leo asked, requesting to get the enforcers to get the stone for.
Mumm Ra saw no problem of handling this bider and replied, "No, I will retrieve it myself".
"Who is this Mon*star?" Namora asked.
"Someone who is below me", Mumm Ra told them, "For now, you all must leave. I have some business to take care of. We will discuss this, later".
They did just that, and left the room, leaving Mumm ra to leave as well to confront the bider.
Before this scene would continue on, the sea suddenly turned black.
That can't be it, can it?" Edward asked.
"No." Torrica said. "The show's only what you need to know."
The next scene shows the same location. This time it took place in the hallway, where Cherieng, Namora, and Gjira are discussing a certain subject.
"This take place after the four stones were retrieved", Torrica explains, "A moment before an event happens that changes everything".
"I have some doubts on our business with Mumm Ra", Cherieng said to them, "He had not told us anything about the Stone for a while. Not a single bit. All while we did the dirty work for him".
"Maybe he's not certain what they possess", Gjira said.
"That's impossible. If he doesn't know, we wouldn't be here, teaming up with him".
"Let's not get too fixated on that", Namora told her, "I'm more curious on our clear objective here, expanding our influence and army throughout the galaxy".
"I don't care about some influence crap", Gjira said, "My objective is to create the biggest war ever against the strongest warriors, with some support by Mumm Ra. I only did his work, in return for more lands to raid that fit my interest".
"Of course you would care more about your own ego". Namora replied, in a spiteful way, "I'm surprised with all this chaos and war, you never made a single smile".
"I never do, my dear. Never".
"I believe an event is going to happen, my friends' ', Cherieng words made them stop, listening in curiosity as to what she meant, "I suspect a rebellion, someone with a treachery mind".
"Oh really?" Namora asked, somewhat uncertain about it. This poke the curiosity in them.
Gjira has his doubts on that too, asking, "What are you talking about?"
"I sense the downfall of him", Cherieng told them, "Not just him, but all of us as well. I have a feeling after he's gone, we will all fall along with him".
"Heh, that's complete nonsense", Namora shrugged it off.
"And how would you know that?" Gjira questions her beliefs.
"Simple", She pulled out from her cape a golden sphere on her hand, and held it out to them, as Gjira was bigger than them.
"What is this?" Namora ask, looking closely at it.
"This is a sphere that allows anyone to see their fate in the future", She explained, "My personal goddess has given this to me as a way to predict anything. Only the strongest and powerful one could wield this thing".
"And why are you telling this to us?" Gjira asked, still doubtful.
"Because I knew what is going to happen to all of us", Cherieng continued, "I saw one of us will fall and be trapped inside a necklace, with only the slightest hope of getting out is by someone weak enough to wear it".
"Who is this someone?" Namora asked, too.
"I cannot tell", Cherieng replied, "As you must know, I don't give out information for free, my friend".
"I knew it", Gjira said, knowing there was something fishy about her, "You were baiting us to make a deal with you".
"Of course", Cherieng cackles a laugh, "That's the reason I'm showing this to you. If you want to know your future, you need to give me half of your power".
"Half?" Namora asked, already offended.
Gjira, still remaining calm, despite his aggressive nature, asked, "Why? You already have enough power? What more do you want?"
She cackle another laugh, more evil than ever, "Everything! Death and life itself! I want control of everything!".
"Never!" Namora shouted, "I would never in my lifetime give my power to someone like you. Give me the sphere!"
Before she could reach it to grab it, Cherieng pulled it back, but not back into the cape. It is still exposed to them, wanting the sphere for itself, "You fool! You think it will be that easy to take it away from me?! I am half goddess, you imbecile!"
"Enough of this!", Gjira shouted, "I must know more about my destiny and what my research would lead to".
He was stopped by a staff, by Namora.
"Get outta my way".
"And let you have the sphere for yourself", Namora replied, "Not a chance".
Without predicting it, Namora was ejected at the wall by the single punch of Gjira fist!
Before he could make his move, he was struck by red lightning! Getting electric shock! From Cherieng! Who was laughing more and more, seeing Gjira on his knee. This is happening, all while Edward watches in awe, with Torrica not changing any expression. Gjira had taken a massive injury.
"Gggrrr, you bitch!" Gjira scowl.
"Hahahahahahahahahaha! Let's see how a giant lizard tastes like, all burn up!"
Although he had been struck down to his knee, a bolt of fire struck Cherieng! Causing her to be pushed on the ground.
Namora managed to got up with her staff and shot another energy ball at Gjira!
He dodge and open his mouth, revealing atomic flames coming out of it. Flames that scorched out of it and fired at Namora, deflected it with her staff!
"You're lucky I am not in my other form!" Gjira said weakly, "Back down, or else your spirit will be broken and join my army!".
Namora shoots dozens of energy balls at him, with him covering himself with his arm.
Cherieng managed to get up, still holding the sphere and snarling.
She then struck the both of them with her same electric power at them! Causing them to stop and fall on their knees!
"I gave you two a chance to see your fate! And now, you will finally see death!"
She zapped shackles chains at Gjira's hands, pulling him down on the ground. She did the same thing with Namora, wanting to enjoy their suffering.
Cackling another laugh, Cherieng struck more and more on them! Finally, Namora managed to use her staff and struck her!
This ended the torture and Namora gain the upper hand to shoot more energy balls at Gjira! Who ripped the chains from the ground.
As expected, Gjira deflected it and charged right at her, pinning her back on the wall! Creating another huge crack and dent!
Before Gjira could finish his move, suddenly! They were all shaken by the force of the ship, causing them to fall back down as it seemed as though the ship was crashing down.
The sphere rolled next to Gjira, who saw the chance and grabbed it, now running away toward the hangar where his ship is located.
Namora gets up and chases after him. Cherieng, meanwhile, knew the time had come to escape and she did that, disappearing in a cloud of smoke.
Reaching at the hanger bay, as his ship awaits.
"Kogus! Get the shuttle ready! We're getting out of here!" Gjira shouted.
"Master is critically wounded!" Ghido exclaimed.
The hangar was beginning to fall apart, so he was making his way much quicker, until an energy ball struck his hand, dropping the sphere and rolling near the edge of space.
Namora begins to fire more and more energy blasts at him, as he retorts by opening his mouth and blasting another atomic blast at her, creating a blue, white, and red spark! Blinding anyone who dares to see it.
Their attacks clash, one trying to push their power to another and another doing the exact same thing.
Eventually, their beams were so strong, they accidentally let go and shot the sphere out into space, ejecting it lightyear away.
"NO!" Both of them shouted, seeing their only hope for success was gone.
Another rumble hit! Now they must retreat, as Namora taps her staff and black portal appears, escaping in there out of sight.
Gjira ran toward his ship and before he got in, he said, "Cherieng and Namora…will pay for this!"
Once on the ship, Gjira collapsed to the wall. He pants heavily, feeling the cold grip of death slowly overtake him.
"I'm not…...ready to die yet…" he said weakly. "Not until I accomplish my…..dream. The fights I long for! I will not die to cheap tricks…such as this!"
"Hang in there, master!" Gameha cried.
As his children all worried for him, Spiega walked onto the scene.
"Zygoguns are tough." He said solemnly. "They don't die by age. They die through war and violence. I will save your life."
"How are you gonna do that?" Sura asked.
"I must sacrifice myself to do so."
Gjira breathes weakly as Spiega approaches him and takes out his spellbook.
"This is a spell that will grant you invincibility. Since age has no effect on our race, nothing will be able to damage you. You won't get sick, you won't take damage, and it'll be impossible to affect you by rewriting reality. The spell will last until the day you fight the Hero of Happiness. But just know if I use this spell on you…I will die."
"W…..why?" Gjira asked. "Why sacrifice yourself for me?"
"I'll be honest with you. At first, I was using you for revenge on your father. But in the years we've been together, I've grown to really care for you. It's been fun. So I'm willing to give my life up so you can chase your dream."
"Uncle…."
"Just sit back and let me handle the rest. Goodbye, Gjira. Don't stop chasing your dream."
Spiega recited a long and archaic chant. Gjira feels his injuries healing, and feeling more invigorated than he's ever felt before. The scar on his back from when Cherieng struck him down remained.
Gjira gets up, and as soon as Spiega finishes the chant, he drops to the ground, dead.
Gjira looks at his body with remorse. "Thank you, uncle. You will never be forgotten."
"Master, how do you feel?" Radon asked.
Gjira's grief quickly turns to a slasher smile.
"I feel up for some planetary genocide! Who's with me, men?!"
His crew cheers as they set out for the next adventure.
"But from then on, things were never the same for Gjira." Torrica said. "He was truly invincible and immortal. Nobody could hurt him. Suddenly, every fight was an easy curbstomp for him. And as the years went on, it stopped being fun."
"That explains why my attacks did nothing to him." Edward said. "He's literally invincible. And now he's so powerful he's sick of it?"
"Correct. The years of being an immortal tyrant were eating at his mind. He grew incredibly depressed, turning to alcohol to drown his sorrows. And the curse would not be broken until he fights the Hero of Happiness. But since he hasn't found it yet, he hopes to awaken the Scarlet King and die fighting that instead. He's all but lost hope."
"But the universe will be destroyed!"
"That's why you must stop him with the power gifted to you. Gjira knows of SCP 999, but has not made the connection. About ten years ago, he was out on an inebriated tirade, and was subdued by the SCP Foundation. There, he met 999, and grew to like the creature despite his bitter nature. That was, until his crew broke him free. You see, that SCP will save not only the world, but Gjira as well. It has the power, and you are the one to decide what to do with that power."
"I guess you're right." Edward said. "I'm not just doing it for us. Gjira is suffering too. I swear, when we next see him, we'll give him the fight he's been craving and break the spell."
"Then I wish you luck, young man. Though I can't see the future, you're looking quite far into it."
Suddenly, a big wave engulfed Edward and Tickles. The wave grew bigger, until the two suddenly found themselves outside the cave.
"That was quite a trip." Edward muttered. "But we know what we gotta do now. Before we do that, let's help our friends."
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Back at the camp, it turned into an all out brawl. Scott was clashing swords with Gideon, while steam lad and tbe contestants were fighting Zandrill. Zandrill easily had the upper hand, as his black hole powers were stronger than what they could throw at him.
"I've hardly broken a sweat." Zandrill gloats. He creates a dark ball and drops it on them Spirit Bomb style.
The cast were pretty tired, as his powers were very unpredictable.
"Jesus fuck, this guy is too tough." Miu complained.
"I'm still raring to go!" Terry said, getting back up. "Bring it on!"
Zandrill smirks. "Very well. I'll kill you all with my next attack."
Before he could do that, the communicator in his pants began to ring. He stops what he was doing to answer it.
"Hello?"
"Zandrill! Its Gjira!" Gjira's voice roared on the other end. "I've been trying to get a hold of you for days! What the hell have you been doing?!"
"Apologies, but I've had some personal business matters to attend to."
"Well, stop whatever you're doing and return to me immediately! Thales has succeeded. The seal is just about broken! The day is near! Code Crimson!"
Zandrill's eyes go wide.
"I'll be right there."
He ends the call, and looks back at the contestants. "Well, it's been fun, but I must cut your execution short. The day of reckoning is just about here. We will see you lot there."
Zandrill flies away, and Gideon is left stunned.
"Hey! Don't leave me here! What about reinstating me back into the Ultimate 7?! Come back!"
"Hey Gideon!" Scott called.
The villain turns and sees Scott's sword glowing bright pink. Next to him was Edward, who not only arrived on the scene, but transformed into the Hero of Happiness.
"So you've returned." Steam Lad said. "I'm glad. I hope Torrica told you everything."
"Oh, he did." Edward said. He looked to his friends and said, "Guys, you all better back up. This attack's gonna be big."
"KICK HIS BUTT, ED!" Waluigi cheered.
Now transformed, he stretches his arm back, and due to its malleability, it really stretches back.
"You ready, dude?" Scott asks Ed.
"Yep."
At the same time, Ed's fist starts flying like a slingshot, while Scott swings his sword and makes a pink pressurized air blade. Both attacks connect with each other, and create an orange phoenix with pink flames.
"POWER OF JOY: FLAMES OF RESURRECTED ELATION!"
Gideon watches in utter horror as the attack comes at him at high speed. The joy phoenix slams into him, and Gideon's body explodes. From the explosion, coins rain down everyone, which hurts a little bit.
"Quick, grab the change!" Miu said as she started stuffing her pockets with coins.
Edward turns back to normal, feeling proud of their victory. "Glad I got here in the nick of time."
"Where'd you go?" Tari asked.
"It's a long story. I'll tell you when we get back on the plane."
"Well, thanks, you guys." Kiryu said. "You really saved our necks."
"Hey, glad I could help." Scott said. "To be honest, I was kind of a dick to my teammates before ending up here, so I'm glad I at least did something to make up for it."
It was then that a helicopter could be seen above them. A rope ladder dropped down, and the one who came down was someone Scott recognized.
"Karin?!"
"Yes." Karin answered. "The producers had a hard time finding you, so I took it upon myself to use the resources I had available to find you."
"Yeah, my raft got stuck in a storm and I washed up here."
"Regardless, I'm glad we found you. I saw your heroics back there, and I'd say our old team would be proud of you. Yes, you were tricked, but then again, no one's perfect. You did a stupendous job out here."
"Thanks. Well, I'd better get home. Ramona is probably worried about me."
"Right."
Scott climbs up the ladder, and Karin gets a look at the contestants.
"You all were pretty strong out there. Good luck with the rest of the game. Ta-ta."
She leaves, and the helicopter flies off.
"Well, I've frankly had enough action for one day." Susie said. "This challenge was a bust. Let's just tell Chris we failed at finding that damn gem."
Most of them shared her sentiments, so the group made their way back to Chris.
"Thank you, everyone." Steam Lad said as he waved them goodbye. "Good luck to you all."
As soon as they were gone, the kid said, "I'm gonna miss them. But they have a job to do, just like me."
Eventually, they made it back to the Chris. The host, unsurprisingly, was longing on his lawn chair.
"Geez, what the heck happened?" Chris asked. "You guys look like crap."
"Don't ask." Joe groaned. "Their were some bad guys, and this Scott guy showed up-"
"Yeah yeah yeah." Chris said with disinterest. "Did one of you guys get the gem?"
"Actually, Waluigi did." Waluigi said proudly. He takes the gem out of his overalls and shows it off. Everyone except Ed and Tari gasped. "Swiped it while Zandrill had his back turned!"
"Then it's official. Waluigi wins immunity." Chris announced. "So, who are you taking with you to first class?"
"Why, Waluigi's good pal Edward, of course." Waluigi puts an arm around Edward.
"Wait, really?" Ed said. "Thanks."
"All right, you guys, let's get going." Chris said. "I'll be seeing you all at elimination tonight."
Chris and the contestants, save for Edward, Tari, and Waluigi get onboard.
"Hey, thanks man." Edward said.
"No problem. So, are we on the same boat on who to vote for?"
The couple nods. "Yep, definitely."
"Sweet. I'll see if I can convince Susie and Miu to do the same."
"My, aren't you all having fun?" A female voice said.
Edward felt the voice sounded familiar. He turns around, and sees none other than Cherieng, with, weirdly enough, Radon and Gameha at her side.
"Cherieng!" Ed growled.
"Uh, who's this?" Tari asked.
"Remember that long story I'd tell you about? Well, she's a part of it."
"Relax, boy." Cherieng said super seriously. "I'm not here to hurt you. I just want to cheer you on."
"Huh?"
"I have some rather bad blood with Gjira, as you now know. I personally hope to see one of my mortal enemies go down."
"That bastard has it coming!" Radon cackled. "He disowned me and my little bro here after we failed one mission!"
"So I just want to wish you luck." Cherieng finished.
Even if she was sincere about it, Ed knew she's someone not to be messed with or trusted.
"Olay…." Ed said skeptically. "But if you ever get in our way…" his face turns dark. "Then we're coming for you after Gjira."
Cherieng watches in stunned silence as they leave. She surely didn't expect the runt to talk down to him.
"That damned runt!"
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Later, the contestants were all in the elimination room.
"Well, you guys had a rough day. But at this point, those seem to be happening more frequently." Chris joked.
"Does it look like we're in a laughing mood, asshole?!" Miu snapped.
"Yeesh. Chill out. Anyway, the following players are safe."
"Waluigi"
"Glass Joe"
"Tari"
"Miu"
"Terry"
"Susie."
"And with only three votes, Edward is also safe. Sorry, Kiryu. Time to go."
"What?!" Terry and Joe exclaimed.
Kiryu was surprised, but took the news rather well.
"Well, I had a feeling this might happen."
"You can't leave, man." Terry said. "We've been through so much."
"True. But all good things must come to an end. While I'm at it, I'm disbanding the group."
"What?"
"Carve your own path. It had to happen eventually. But I'll miss you all. I'm glad to have you guys as friends. I wish you guys the best of luck."
Terry and Kiryu shake hands like true bros, same with Joe.
"Thanks, man." Terry said. "Until we meet again, dude."
"We won't forget you, pal." Joe said.
Kiryu grabs his parachute, and hops out of the door.
"I'm actually gonna miss him." Tari said. "Kinda won't be the same without him."
"True." Edward said. "But like you said, sometimes sacrifices had to be made."
"Anyway, what was it you were going to explain?"
"Yeah, where were you while everything was going on?" Susie asked.
"I had a crazy experience. But from what Gjira told Zandrill, it's pretty clear…everything is close to coming to an end."
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Whew. That was a pretty beefy chapter. A majority of it was dedicated to the backstory, but I felt it was important to establish it. A villain needs as good of an origin. Gjira is by no means a good person, but he has aspirations and was given a blessing that's now become a curse. The OCs seen today belong to their respective creators. Steam Lad, Cherieng, and Torrica, along with Zandrill belong to 1602jaw, while Namora belongs to TheMasterKat. Now all that's left is to settle the score with Gjira.
Now, we bid farewell to Kiryu. I like the guy, but the dude is such a badass that it was only a matter of time that others would vote him out. Still, he went out like the gigachad he is. Even Waluigi and Glass Joe got to have cool moments of their own.
Now's the Time for what's to come next.
The climax of the Gjira Saga.
It all ends here.
The crew heads to Terry's home city of South Town, thinking they will get to participate in a KOF tournament. But in reality, it's a trap. It's all set to be the stage of the final battle. It's time for the ultimate battle of Destiny. (As cliche as it sounds.) Regardless, it's my most ambitious episode yet.
With all that said, I will see you all soon with To the End of a Dream.