Well, as I probably mentioned before at some point, my position as Royal Chef did indeed not last long. For those that don't remember, I was given the job as King Dedede's personal chef after the battle with Popon. While I did not like serving that fatso, he does pay well. Though, all that stopped when he realized that he was spending to much on me and decided to fire me after 4 days of my service. I honestly wondered how much money he has because I believe all those monsters he orders were definitely not cheap.
As for Kawasaki, he went back to his restaurant serving his food to Cappies of Cappy Town. I'm not going to lie, I was half tempted to use my new Cook Kirby form to serve in my own establishment. A part of me was still mad at the orange chef for trying to roast my pink ass. However, the other part of me was taking some pity for Kawasaki as he wasn't exactly the sharpest knight in kitchen. Pun intended.
Anyway, things have gone quiet once again as the same routine was played out.
It was another as I was out and about hanging out with my friends. My soulmate, Miku finally decided to give her police training a rest as she hang out with us today. She is currently with Tiff as they were talking to each other. I was playing some sort of game with Tuff and his Cappy friends. Though, to be completely honest, I have no clue what kind of game were playing. I felt like they were changing the rules as we played.
"Come on, Kirby! You're still it! Come bring the can back to base!" Tuff yells.
I huff in a bit of annoyance as I pick up an old can and place it onto of a rock that was the base.
"That isn't the base! It's the big rock!" Spikehead scolded as he points at the said rock. "Can't you remember anything, Kirby!"
I growl. "Well, I'm SORRY if I can't figure out your complicated game. Whatever happened to a simple game of tag?"
I pick up the can and place it onto its real spot.
"Okay! It's my turn to cap it!"
They all suddenly spread out and back away from the can. I follow their example and drew away from the metal cylinder.
"No, Kirby! Go back farther!" Spikehead instructed.
I follow the young Cappy's direction and took a few more steps back. Though, when I turn around, I was hit in the face by a flying can. I stagger backwards and lost my footing. I fell and tumble down a slope, and crashed into the trunk of a tree. Tiff and Miku saw my accident and came to my aid.
"Kirby, are you okay?!" Miku ask concerned.
I groan as I rub my face. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just a tiny bit sore."
Tiff looks at the approaching group and glared at them.
"Kirby, get the can!" Tuff shouts from atop of the slope.
I look at the yellow boy miffed.
"No way! I'm done playing this little game of yours! The rules make no absolute sense!"
I'm freaking 17-years-old for Galaxia's sake, yet I'm playing with a bunch of little kids that are way younger than me. Tiff is an exception though as she is more mature than the rest.
"You guys need to cut it out and give Kirby some slack." Tiff tries to defend me.
"Hey, he fell!" Tuff replies. "It's not our fault!"
"Don't blame us that Kirby is clumsy." Honey adds.
"Me? Clumsy? You're one to talk, Honey. I saw you trip over and land in a pond the other day." I retort.
Honey looks away blushing.
"All of you aren't being fair." Tiff continues. "Kirby is way older than all of us. He is practically an adult. They usually don't play with anyone younger than them."
They all look at each other before turning away.
"Let Kirby go hang out with the other adults then." Iro said.
"Kirby isn't fun anyway." Spikehead says last as they all walk away.
I was about to say something, but decided against it. They are not worth arguing over with.
"Welp, there goes my afternoon." I grumble. "I don't even know why I bother. I got better things to do."
Miku turns to me. "I know you don't really mean that, Toby. You get pretty bored easily."
"Yeah, I won't deny that. Though, what am I suppose to do? I know Tuff and the others are my friends and all, but sometimes I wish they would be a little less childish be more like Tiff. Smart and really mature."
I notice Tiff look away with a tint of red on her cheeks. I get up from the ground I was laying on the whole time.
"Well, now that all that is over, I'm going over to Curio's place. See you two later."
I turn and took off into the direction of the history Cappy's home.
Miku's POV
I watch as my soulmate leaves. It was now just me and Tiff.
"Poor, Toby. I wish there was something we could do." I said.
"Couldn't you spend some time with Toby." Tiff asks.
"Well, yeah. Though, not very often. We may be the same person, but we do have different interests. Especially now that I'm training to be a police officer."
"By the way, how is that going anyway."
I smile. "It's going really great actually. Chief Bookem was surprised that I'm a quick learner. He said would be able to graduate in a month or so when he's done with the paper work."
"Why take that long?"
I give her a deadpan look. It took a second before she realizes what I meant and too share the same face.
"Dedede." We both said.
"I honestly don't know why Dedede is so against Toby. From what I've learned, Toby didn't do anything illegal."
"Dedede doesn't care about the law." Tiff scoffs. "He wants Toby gone because he came to his kingdom without his say. Like that really matters. Dedede is really greedy jerk."
"I guess." I said. "Anyway, were are getting a bit off track. What are we going to do with Toby? He needs someone to play with. Maybe like a pet."
Tiff perks up at this. "Miku, that's a great idea! We'll get Toby pet of his own."
"I thought there wasn't any pet stores in Cappy Town."
She shook her head. "Don't worry. I have an idea for that."
Toby's POV
It has been a few hours since I left the group and went to visit Professor Curio. At first, I wanted to make it quick as I was planning on making burgers for me and Miku when I get back home. However, that ship left when me and Curio got into a long history session. Unaware of the time, we both spent hours telling more and more about each other's history. Curio told more of Cappy History while I told him of Earth's.
"Hmm... these humans you speak of sound fascinating." Curio commented. "I would never would of thought such civilization would gone through so much in the past."
I shrug. "Well, humans adapt. That is what any other society would do when trying to thrive forward."
"I'm still more curious about their technological advancements. To be able to land on the moon sounds amazing."
"It sure does." I look over at the clock on the wall. "Oh! I didn't realize what time it is."
I down the cup of tea Curio made for us, pick up my satchel, and head for the exit.
"It was nice talking with you Curio."
"You're always welcome to come back to my shop, Kirby. I enjoy our history lessons."
I nod and proceed to leave the building. Though, as I only made it to the trail leading back to my house, the familiar sourly bird known as Tokkori shows up.
"There you are, Kirby. I've been looking all over you." He said as he lands on my head.
"What for?" I ask.
"Tiff sent me to go and get you. She has something to show you at the castle."
I raise a brow.
'Huh, I wonder what it is.'
"Alright then." I reach into my satchel and pull out a feather. "I better not keep her waiting."
After a quick flight to the castle in my Wing Kirby form, I was standing outside on the balcony. I go over to the double glass doors and knock. Soon enough, the blonde herself opens it.
"There you are, Toby." She greets me. "Glad you made it on such short notice."
"Well, when you need me, you need me." I drop my form. "Speaking of which, what do you need me for? Tokkori said you had something to show me?"
She nods. "Yep. Just come on in."
I obey and walk inside. When I enter the living room, I see Tiff's family all together around a box in the center. Tiff walks to their side and clears her throat.
"Well, Kirby. This is a present from us." She gestures to the brown box.
Tiff opens said box and pulls out, to my surprise, a robotic toy dog. Its supposedly coat was colored brown while the blank glass eyes, and plastic ears and tail were colored red.
'They bought me a toy?' I thought. 'Not that I don't appreciate the gift, but they do know I'm a little too old for this kind of thing, right?'
While I was still examining the fake K-9, Tiff pulls out a set of batteries.
"Now we put in the batteries."
Tiff takes the batteries out of its pack and puts them in the battery slots, which were in the toy dog's butt.
'Why there of all places?'
Tiff closes the hatch and looks at the instructions that came with it.
"Pull the tail once to activate all functions in your electronic pet." She reads. "Okay, then."
Tiff proceeds and pull onto the plastic tail. A small beep sounds off. All of us get closer curiously. Though a moment of silence later, the toy dog barks, startling us. With of look of surprises, we approach again.
"Remarkable." Sir Ebrum comments as the toy dog comes to life with its eyes glowing blue.
The dog looks around at all of us until it looks at me. It stares at me for a moment until the blue light from its eyes fade and was replaced with black digital eyes.
"Arf! Arf!"
The dog then pounce in front of me and then starts nuzzling me. I was completely surprised by the situation. I honestly didn't think a toy dog would be this life like compared to the so-called toy pets back on earth.
"Uh? Good boy?" I said awkwardly as I pet the plastic K-9. "Tiff, not that I'm ungrateful or anything like that, but why did you guys got me this?"
"It was both me and Miku's idea. When thought that if we could get you a pet, you will have someone to play and maybe even train with. We hope you like it."
I look back at the little puppy in front of me and grin as it jumps around wanting to play.
"You know what? I do like it. Though, I'm going to give him a name. What do you say, boy? Do you want a name?"
"Arf! Arf!" He barks excitedly.
"Alright then, how about Sparky?"
The puppy stops moving and shakes his head. My eyes widen a bit at how advance the AI is. This little toy can actually thing for themselves. I wonder what company it came from to be this good. They must make a killing in their products.
"Oh, uh, okay then. What about... Dusty?"
*Shakes Head
"Ember?"
*Shakes Head
"Megatron!"
*Pauses... Shakes Head
"So much for references." I muttered. "Alright, how about... Onix?"
The puppy thinks for a second before he actually nods.
"Okay, then. You're name for now on is Onix."
"Arf!"
"This is really fun to watch." Tiff said, handing me a glass of cider as her and the others had their own drink. "Well, Kirby. We are glad that you like your gift. Now, how about you join us for dinner."
"I would like that."
It was the next day as me and my new pet, Onix were at and about taking a walk. To be honest, I never had an actually real life pet before back on Earth. I did like the idea of having to own a pet cat or dog, but never gotten around to asking my mom about it. Though, I guess I have to starts somewhere. Just never thought of doing it in another dimension. What are the odds?
"-and then, when we came around the corner, we got jumpscared by one of the students. I ended up punching them in the face in fright by accident."
"Arf!"
Onix does make a good listener when I want to talk to somebody. I was just retelling the time when me and my friend Mary visited an haunted house our school put together on Halloween.
"Aft! Arf!" Onix suddenly blocks my path as his tail shakes.
"What that, boy? You want to play tag?"
"Arf!"
"Aright, then." I take his little nose and took off running. "You're it!"
I laugh happily as Onix runs after me behind. We both ran for a while until I ran out of breath. Onix come around and tackles me to the ground. He barks in victory.
"Alright, alright. You got me. Good boy." I chuckle as I pet my dog.
Just then, Tokkori comes flying to us from the tree we were near.
"Well, Kirby. Looks like that computerized dog got the better of you. But you can't let it walk all over you. Soon, it'll start disobeying you. You need to show who's boss."
Before I could react, the little bird flies over to Onix and starts jabbing his beak at him. Onix did not like it one bit as he runs off with Tokkori still pecking at him.
"Now, what just a minute, Tokkori! Knock it off!" I yell angrily as I follow.
When I catch up to the two, I find Onix quivering in a pond down a slope. Tokkori was laughing his damn feathers off at his little stunt.
"I sure showed him! That's how you use discipline- AHH!"
I didn't let him finish as I sucked him into my mouth and star-spit him away. Tokkori hits the trunk of a tree nearby.
"That wasn't cool, Tokkori!" I glared. "Onix is my dog. I'll treat him my way, not yours!"
Tokkori recovers from his little bird-handling.
"Fine! That's the last time this bird helps you out!"
"Help? I didn't ask for your help! I never did!" I turn to Onix as he gets out of the water. "Come on, Onix! Let's go!"
Onix shakes off the water before he runs to my side. I give the bird one last look before me and my little friend went off.
"You two deserve each other!" I hear Tokkori shout out sourly.
After that little incident was over with, I decided that I want to show Onix around. We are currently heading in the direction of Wispy Woods. I figure I would introduce Onix to the guardian of the forest. I could also show him to the pack of wolves I met last time.
"Alright, Onix. When we get to the forest, I want you to stay close to-"
Just then, an acorn fell in the middle of our path. I was about to ignore it when a squirrel came in and pick it up.
"Arf! Arf!"
Onix pounces forward and starts chasing the little animal.
"Onix! Come back here!" I call out as I give chase.
We ran off into another path that leads to an upcoming stream. I see up ahead that the squirrel jump and ran along a fallen log that planked over the stream. Onix tries to follow it, but ends up slipping and falling into the rapids.
"Oh, no! ONIX!"
I kick it to overdrive and sprinted alongside the stream.
"Arf! Arf!" Onix barks in distress.
"I'm coming, boy!" I shouted as I was digging into my satchel.
Though, before I would pull anything out, I trip over a rock and drop my bag. I look ahead to see Onix going further away from me. Panicking, I ditch the bag and began inhaling the water. Onix got caught in the water currents and was pulled out of the water and into my waiting arms.
"Thank, Galaxia you're okay, Onix!" I said petting the puppy.
"Arf!"
Before I could scold the dog for running off, I flashed before I changed to my new form. I was wearing an elegant golden crown with an actual jet of water spouting out like a fountain. Bits of mist were spraying all around me like that of a waterfall.
"Whoa, this is new." I said look at my reflection in the stream. "I didn't even mean to turn into this form. I guess this is Water Kirby?"
"Arf?"
"Yeah. I surprise too." I shake my head before look at Onix crossed. "Now, Onix, I'm still not happy about you running off like that. You could of gotten hurt, or worse."
Onix lowers his head a bit in shame. My gaze softens as I sigh.
"Look, you just need to be more careful. Especially around water for now on as you're not built to swim. I really don't want to have to put you on a leash. I prefer you to be free range."
Onix barks as if saying, 'I'm sorry. I'll be good.'.
"Well, come on then. I still want to go to Wispy Woods."
With that said, we continue on our way to our original destination.
A little time later, and we finally made it to what I think is the outskirts. I'm not sure as I sometimes get mix up between one regular forest for Wispy's.
"Alright, I think this is the place." I said. "Now, Onix, remember what I said earlier about- Whoa!"
Just when I was about to lecture Onix about forest traveling safety, I see something amazing. In front of me and Onix is a patch of pineapples. All of them ripe and ready to be picked.
"Huh, I never seen wild pineapples before." I said as I pluck a big one from it's stem. "Don't mind if I do. It's not everyday you come across a patch of fresh wild fruit in the wilderness."
Before I could take a bite out of the fruit, something very surprising happened. Onix grabs the pineapple from grasp and places it on the ground upright. Then, he suddenly went Wolverine and extends a set of very sharp claws from his paws before cutting off the top part of the fruit. Onix retracts the very sharp tools and pulls out a little drill from his mouth and starts drilling the inside of pineapple. A moment later, he offers me freshly made pineapple juice.
"Arf!" He barks as if what he did was normal.
I just stare dumbfounded as I take a hold of my drink.
'Okay. I could understand about Onix' AI programming to be advance since technology here is a bit more advance, but... WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT?!'
I finally came to a conclusion that Onix is no normal toy. I mean, what kind of toy has very sharp claws and a drill of all thing?! Something wasn't right. Onix must be a drone of some kind because as cute and friendly as my dog is, he is definitely no child-safe.
'Tiff said that Onix is a toy pet. Perhaps Gengu might know something. I'll have to pay him a visit.' I thought as I take a sip of my pineapple juice before perking up. 'Although, it wouldn't hurt to hold off on that for a little while. Onix does make some good juice.'
Rustle Rustle
Before I could enjoy my fruity cup of juice, Tuff and his Cappy friends came out of the bushes near us.
"Kirby, we want pineapple juice too!" Tuff demanded.
"Yeah. You had enough." Iro said trying to take my drink.
"What are you talking about? I just took a sip from this! Get your own!" I denied as I held my drink tighter.
Though, a sudden blast of pineapple juice was shot out of nowhere and sends the drink flying away. We all turn to see that it was Onix who sent to opposing projectile.
"Hey! What gives?!" Tuff said.
Onix ignores him as he sends another spray of fruit juice all over him and the others. Soon, they were drench in sticky juice.
"Arf! Arf!" Onix barks, happy with his accomplishment.
"You'll regret this!" Tuff yells at Onix.
"So will you, Kirby!" Spikehead adds as they all walk away from me and Onix.
"You guys deserve it you greedy little buggers!" I shout back. "Geeze, if they wanted some, they could of just asked instead of forcing it."
"Arf!"
"I have no idea what you really are or what you can actually do, Onix. But I need to get to the bottom of it."
Though, just as I said that, I notice of how dark it was getting. Seems we have been out on our little adventure longer than what I planned.
"However, I'll have to do it tomorrow. Come on, Onix. Let's go home."
"Arf!"
Back at house, me and Miku were talking about our day after eating some steak I cooked for dinner. As usual, Miku was talking about her training at the police station, and getting to know more of the Cappies in Cappy Town. Though, she was more interested in my day as I told her what happened on me and Onix' adventure. Though, she had the same reaction when I told her off Onix'... additional accessories.
"This does sound suspicious, Toby." Miku said sitting on a cushion she bought. "I may not know about this world like you, but I even I think it's not normal for a company to sell something like this to the public."
"That's the thing, Miku." I said from my spot on the bed. "I think Onix might be one of a kind."
"Well, for whatever the reason, I'll take look at this and investigate. Something doesn't feel right with that dog."
We turn to see Onix playing with a red rubber ball Miku bought from the same toy store.
"Alright, I'll take Onix out tomorrow while you do your little police work." I said getting into the blanket of my bed.
"That's fine. Just be careful, Toby."
Miku goes to the light switch that was near a ladder that leads to her room.
"Goodnight, Toby." Miku said flicking the lights out and going down the hole.
"Goodnight, Miku." I said getting comfortable. "Come on, Onix."
Onix stops his playing and jumps into bed with me. He circles around before laying down peacefully as he goes into... sleep mode I guess?
'I could get use to this.' I thought as I close my eyes and slowly slip into the dream world.
Miku's POV
After having some breakfast with Toby, I made my way into town to conduct my investigation on Onix. Right now, I'm at Tuggle's and Gengu's store as I see other Cappy customers were shopping. Adults buying produces while kids where playing around at the toy section. Speaking of toy section, I see Gengu putting up some boxes on the shelves. I make my way over to him.
"Good morning, Gengu." I greeted.
"Oh, morning, Miku." He greets back. "If you're looking to by them anime action figures, I have the box in the back."
I blush a bit as I try to keep my composer. Lately, I've been really getting into anime when Toby told me about them after showing his drawings. I secretly keep some mangas under my bed back at the house.
"Uh, as interesting as it sound, I'll have to pass. Though, I need to talk to you about something."
"Really? Well, what's on you mind?"
"I'm actually conducting an investigation on Onix."
"Onix?"
"That's the name of the toy dog me and Tiff bought."
"Oh, well, I'll try to give some answers, Miku. Though, I won't be much of help."
I raise a brow. "Why is that, Gengu?"
"Because even I don't know where Onix came from."
That raises some questions.
"What do you mean you don't know? I thought you would of ordered it for your store."
"Well, not exactly. It just appeared out of nowhere a few days ago in the store room with the other boxes."
"Could I see the box it came in?"
"Sure, I was just about to throw it away anyway way."
Gengu goes into the back before coming back out with a white box.
"Does it say what company it comes from?" I ask.
"Nope. The only brand marking on this is this symbol."
I take a closer look at the said symbol. It was a purple silhouette of a skinny figure. Though, something about this symbol felt unnatural. As if my instincts are telling me to keep away.
"You sure you don't know where it came from?"
"Yeah. I have no clue."
I stroke my chin thoughtfully before backing away.
"Thank you for the help, Gengu. It might not be much, but it does shed some light on the matter."
"No problem, Miku. Glad to be of help."
I nod before I go and leave the store.
'I'll have to do some research on that symbol. Hopefully, I could decipher this mystery.'
I straighten my signature white bow before heading off into the direction of Biblio's Bookstore.
Toby's POV
Man, today was a lot of fun. I spent the whole day playing with my little friend, Onix. We've done plenty of things. I've taught Onix a few basic dog tricks, how to cross the street, and to cut fruit midair with his Wolverine claws. That last part was not necessary, but it was cool to have a fruit ninja. Ha!
Right now, it was night time as me and Onix were relaxing near the shores of the beach. A campfire was build as it flicker in the night, providing light and heat.
"Wow. Today was a lot fun."
"Arf! Arf!" Onix barks in agreement.
"You know, I never thought it would be this fun to have a pet. I wonder why I never gotten around to getting one back on Earth."
Vroom!
Me and Onix were startled by the sound of engines going off. We turn to see both King Dedede and Escargoon coming our way in their tank. My eyes widen as I tackle Onix out of they just in time as the goons plow through our little campground, destroying the campfire and logs I've gathered to use as seats.
"Onix, are you okay?" I ask worriedly.
"Arf!" He replies, seemingly not damaged.
"Oh, thank Galaxia." I turn to the direction of the goons that parked a distances away. "Hey! Watch where you're going you fatso!"
They seem to now hear me as they just look at us through some binoculars.
'Great, now Dedede is interested in Onix.'
"Come on, Onix. Let's go home."
"Arf!"
I reach into my satchel and pick out a feather before turning Wing Kirby. I pick up Onix and flew us all the way back to the house. Just as I enter after dispelling my form, I see Miku standing in the middle of the room with a book in her grasp. She was looking at us with what seems like a look of both concern and... caution?
"Hey, Miku." I greeted. "Is there something wrong-"
"Toby." She interrupts. "We need to talk."
I was in complete shock as stare out the window where the moon was shining. Miku told me about her investigation on Onix and she found something shocking. It turns out, Onix is actually a product from Nightmare Enterprises. I know very well that anything that comes from Nightmare's business is not to be taken lightly.
"This is... this can't be..." I said in denial.
"I'm sorry, Toby." Miku tries to comfort. "But we need to get rid of Onix. I know you are getting close to him, but we can't risk him hurting you."
"But... But he hasn't done anything wrong. He has Wolverine claws for Galaxia sake! Yet, he didn't try anything."
"That maybe, but he might just be trying to gain your trust before he strikes you down. I like Onix too, but he needs to go."
I was torn. On one hand, I have another potential robot monster I will have to destroy like I did with Slice'n Splice. On the other... well, I have no clue on what to do.
"We can't get rid of Onx. He may be a monster, but... I believe we can change him."
"Change him?"
"Yeah! He's a robot, right? So, we can just reprogram him to be good."
"Do you even know about tech?"
"No, I've only handled TV's and TV equipment before. However, I might know someone who could help."
"Toby-"
"Miku, please..." I said nearly in a desperate tone.
Miku closes her eyes in though before she finally gives in.
"Alright, Toby. We can keep, Onix. However, if he does something to put you in danger, then we'll have no choice but to put him down."
I sigh in relief. "Don't worry. I'm going to change him for the better."
Miku goes to the ladder to her room.
"I just hope you can, Toby. I really do."
It was another day as me and Onix were having another stroll. Miku has already left to do her daily morning jogs while our neighbor Tokkori... well, I don't really care much for the little prick. I'm still mad at his behavior the other day. Anyway, me and Onix were close to the mayor's sheep farm as we walk along the path.
"You ever wonder what it would be like to wield magic?"
I was also just asking random questions that I thought of in my head.
"Arf!" Onix replies.
"Yeah, I mean, would your stamina go down per spell, or is it based on will power? So many questions."
I honestly have no clue at what I'm doing. I said that I would change Onix to be good, but so far, he's been well behaved. Sure, there was that incident with Tuff and his friends with the whole pineapple argument, but they deserved it. I thought of taking Onix to Professor Curio since he was not only a Cappy of history, but also one of science. I've learn that from one of our history lessons long ago.
"Hey, uh, Onix?" I said just a tad bit nervous.
"Arf?"
"I have been meaning to talk to you about something. I know you can understand me. So, I need you to be honest."
"Arf!"
"Alright." I take breath and calm myself. "I was wondering if you actually are a mon-"
Vroom!
I interrupted by a familiar vehicle. I sigh as I see King Dedede and Escargoon come speed right to us and stop a few feet away.
"Oh my, Galaxia. What do you idiots want now?" I asks irritably.
"Don't you call me an idiot!" Dedede shouts.
"And we want that robot toy dog of yours!" Escargoon adds.
I look between them and Onix before shaking my head.
"I'm afraid I'm going to have to deny your request."
"I wasn't requesting, I am demanding! Give it here!" Dedede yells.
"And my answer is still no!"
"Hmph! Too bad. Guess I'll have to do this my way."
Before I could say anything else, Dedede takes aim with his cannon and fires. I couldn't react in time as me and Onix were flung a few feet away from the blast.
"Onix! Run!" I commanded.
"Not so fast!" Escargoon said.
A robotic arm pops out of the tanks compartment from the back and snatches the little toy dog up.
"Arf! Arf!" Onix barks as he was thrown into his little prison.
"Onix, NO!" I said trying to get up.
"Onix, yes!" Dedede laughs. "See you on the flip side, Kirby!"
Just when I was about to fight for my friend, Dedede pulls out a bomb from the tank and throws it. The weapons explodes in my face and I was thrown back many feet away. The last thing I see is the goons driving off with some storm clouds coming above.
It was dark all around me as rain poured over me. Lighting flashed with a bang following after. I look at myself to see that I was human again.
"Where am I?" I ask no one. "Is this the Mystery Room again?"
"Arf! Arf!"
I heard the sound of familiar barking. I look around frantically.
"Onix!? Where are you?!" I call out. "Come on, boy!"
"Arf! Aft! Aft!"
I trace to where the sound was coming from, and soon, I see my little friend.
"Onix! There you are! Come here, boy!"
Onix complies as he starts running to me. As I stand there with open arms, I notice something very off. As Onix runs towards me, his happy innocent expression turns dark as he glares at me. Not to mention, his eyes are glowing menacingly red.
"Bark! Bark!"
Onix's little barks tune deep and more robotic instead of his usual cute normal ones. What makes it more scary is that his teeth were showing as they were razor sharp looking.
"Wait a second! Hold on, Onix- ARGHH!"
When Onix comes close enough, he leaps and bites down on my arm very hard. To the point that he was drawing a lot of blood and breaking bones. I desperately try to shake the dangerous dog off.
"ONIX, PLEASE STOP! LET GO!"
I punch the dog in the face multiple times until I was able to throw it away from me. I clench my arm as I wither in pain. My arm was completely torn to shred as blood was dripping.
"GGRRRR!"
I turn to see where I threw Onix. Though, he was not the same as before. Now, he looked like a more vicious robotic version of his formal self as he is the size of a direwolf! Onix looks at me with murder in his gaze.
"Onix..." I pleaded weakly. "Please... Please don't do this..."
Onix pauses his advances as he looks at me. He looks at me with mix emotions. It went from anger, to troubled, to confused, then finally, sadness? Onix whimpers at me as he looks at my massive arm injury.
"Hey... Hey, it's okay, Onix." I said trying to fight back the pain. "It was just a mistake. I'm not mad at you."
I take a cautious step forward, but Onix steps away still whimpering.
"I know you're really a good boy, Onix. Please... Just let me help you."
BEEP BEEP BEEP
Suddenly, Onix's red eyes started blinking while a beeping noise was echoing. Onix whimpers loudly before he turns and runs away from me.
"Onix? Wait! Where are you going-"
KABOOM!
Just as Onix was running away from me, he suddenly explodes into a thousand pieces. The blast was strong enough knock me off my feet. i look on at the flaming crater of where Onix used to be.
"...No..."
"Kirby..."
I suddenly heard my name. The one saying it sounds familiar.
"Hello?!" I call a back.
"Kirby!"
I look around as I feel the whole world around me was disappearing.
"KIRBY!"
"Kirby!"
I woke up to the sensation of someone shaking me.
"Wha... What?" I said as I rub my face.
"Kirby, are you okay?"
I take in my surround as I see Tiff, Tuff, and Miku by my side. It was also raining as it pours over us.
"Guys, what are you guys here?" I ask as I get up.
"Miku came to us and told us everything about Onix." Tiff answered. "We were worried about you since you were alone with that thing. I see we made the right call in looking for you."
I look at myself as I am back to my pink self. Though, I was covered in cuts, bruises, and a bit of ashes from Dedede's bomb from earlier.
"We need to find that dog, Kirby." Miku said sounding serious. "We have to destroy it."
"You can't do that!" I protested.
"Kirby, Miku told me that you were going to somehow turn that dog good. But look what that got you."
"That wasn't his fault! It was Dedede's!"
"Which makes it all the more reason we need to stop it!" Tiff yells back. "When Dedede finds out that it is from Nightmare Enterprises, he will send it to destroy you!"
"He wouldn't hurt me!"
"You don't look certain." Tuff points out.
I hate to admit it, but was sort of right. That dream still has me shaken up. I can almost feel the soreness coming to my arm. It felt so real.
"Look, I'm going to go find my friend! Whether with or without your help!"
I turn and took off to the direction of Castle Dedede. If I could guess, then Dedede has Onix locked up somewhere in the castle.
"Kirby!"
I was suddenly stopped in my track by Tiff.
"Kirby, you need to stay away from that monster! It is very dangerous!"
"HE IS NOT DANGEROUS! HE IS MY FRIEND!" I shouted loudly.
Tiff was taken back from my tone as she took a step back. I angered face soften a little big as I fought back tears.
"Onix is my friend, Tiff." I sniffled. "I won't abandon him. I think, no, I KNOW he is good. I just need to talk to him."
I go around Tiff and continue my way to the castle. I get to hill top and shout as load as I can.
"ONIIXX!"
Onix' POV
I have been built for a specific task. That task was to destroy my assigned target. I have pull off a few in the past. It pleased my superiors when I do a good job in my work. Though there was one target that I was having difficulty with.
That target is known as the last Star Warrior, Kirby.
I mission was suppose to be simple. Get adopted, gain my owner's trust, then eliminate them as I was tasked to do. However, there is something about Kirby, or as the blue one have been calling him, Toby that is not working with me. I've done my job countless times with the same results, but something wasn't right. For some reason, I just couldn't bring myself to Toby.
I just couldn't.
Perhaps there is something wrong with my processing. Maybe one of my circuit chip was damaged when the aggresive yellow bird known as Tokkori pushed me into the pond days ago.
Or maybe... there is something else not natural.
As if there is something forming within me that I can't fully explain. During the time when I was gaining Toby's trust, he has treated me differently then the rest of my previous targets. He actually treated me like I was actually real dog. Not just a piece of plastic. Toby treated me with respect and played with me with more energy like I actually wanted to play instead of seemingly programmed to like a normal toy.
When the blue one, documented as Miku, has discovered my origin, I was about to initiate my combat protocol and eliminate both her and Toby. However, Toby has defended me and actually kept me within his home instead of setting on putting me down. I was torn. I didn't know what to feel. But whatever reason, something kept me from just finishing the job when he was asleep.
'What am I to do? I must do my job and destroy Toby, but... at what cost?'
I think I'm starting to get the word, 'Friendship'. Well, I already knew the definition. What I meant is I feel what friendship is, and you know what? I like it. I like it very much. Though, I know I can't go back to my superiors without finishing my task. But I also can't destroy my one and only true friend.
'Oh, what situation I've put myself into. If I kill Toby, I will regret it for the rest of my life. If I go back empty handed, then I will surely be disassembled and checked what is wrong with me, thus killing ME.'
"Onix!"
Huh, it seems Toby has finally regain consciousness from that blow. Perhaps it is time for me to head on back. Oh wait, that's right. I'm still in this cage. Not not to worry. This is NME brand monster proof containment unit. This will not be difficult to break through for me.
Toby's POV
I ran as fast as I could to Castle Dedede. I have no idea of how I was going to get Onix back, but I had to think of something. I may be strong when it comes to fighting, but going against an entire army of Waddle Dees might be too much for me to handle. Not to mention, I have no power-ups for me to use. I am on my own.
"Maybe if I'm careful enough, I could sneak past Dedede's defenses-"
"Arf! Arf!"
I stop my running when I heard a familiar barking. I look closely up ahead to see-
"Onix?!"
"Arf!" I see him running to me.
"Oh thank, Galaxia you're okay!"
I was so happy that Onix has escaped Dedede's clutches. You know those scenes where a boy reunites with their dog in the movies, well, that's what I'm feeling right now.
"Don't worry, boy! Everything is going to be alright-"
BOOM!
Just when things looked like their were patching back together, it just went back to being bad. When I was close enough to embrace Onix, we were once again blown away from each other. I look up from the ground to where that blast came from. My eyes widen when I see it was King Dedede and Escargoon. Though, that wasn't what surprised me. What got me was the hundreds, or even thousands of Waddle Dees that were behind the goons. They all were carrying spears, nets, batons, and even net launchers. I even see some cannons at the ready.
"That mutt is mine!" Dedede shouts before pointing at us. "GO!"
The Waddle Dees comply as they all charge right to us. Though, when a group came close to Onix, he springs up and starts barking furiously at them. They stopped as they took cautious steps back as they point their weapons defensively.
"Onix! Come on! We need to get out of here!"
I would like to fight off Dedede's soldiers, but I am at a huge disadvantage without any powers to assist me. Onix looks at me for a moment before complying.
"Don't let them escape!" Escargoon orders the troops.
However, it was too late as me and Onix were already a good distances away.
Well, we have been running for some time now. Me and Onix manage to hide from the search party that is after us. The stormy rain finally subsided as it was now around dusk. Right now, were at the cliff side near the coast as we both watch the golden sunset together.
"I'm still glad that you're back, Onix." I smiled.
"Arf!"
"I don't know what we are going to do. I know Dedede will try to hunt us down in Dreamland, but I'm sure I can think of something."
"Kirby!"
Me and Onix turn to see Miku and my two friends. Though, Miku was actually in her Sword Miku form. She is wearing a red Link hat and wield a silver sword. That gave me a bad feeling of what's to come.
"Kirby, we're glad that you're okay." Tiff said "Look, I know that you want to save Onix, but no matter how cute he looks, he is still very dangerous!"
I sigh irritably. "How many times do I have to say it? I'm not giving him up!"
Tiff and Miku look at each other before nodding. Miku steps forward sword in hand.
"I don't want to do this, Kirby." Miku said sadly. "But this is for your own safety. You're too important to die."
I however don't back down as I take a defensive stance.
"Please, Kirby... Just step aside and I'll make it quick."
Crumble!
It seems Onix took a wrong step as a weak part of the cliff edge gave away. Onix barks in distress as falls into the ocean.
"ONIX!" I shouted as I jump and dive after my friend.
"KIRBY!" My friends and soulmate yelled.
I paid them no attention as I fight against the strong waves crashing over me.
Onix' POV
I will have to be honest, out of all the missions I've been through, this one takes the cake. I never would of thought that I would be in this situation. I have probably said that already, but it seems to this one is getting worse. Luckily though, I have a built in hovering sequence that is allowing me to stay afloat.
INCOMING CALL
Oh, I was afraid of this.
Onix:
"This is NME K-9 Unit #658. I read you loud and clear."
?:
"Hey there little buddy. How is your mission going?"
Onix:
"Well... I'm afraid that it is a no go, Sir."
?:
"Oh? Why is that?"
Onix:
"I'm afraid I've overestimated my target, Sir. I will have to return to base."
?:
"(Chuckles) Actually, there has been a change in plan you little runt."
Onix:
"Uh, excuse me, Sir?"
?:
"Don't you pretend I haven't been checking on the video feeds. You are becoming attached this Star Warrior."
Onix:
"I...I know I am, Sir. But if you just let me-"
?:
"I'm afraid to inform you that you are no longer need in NME you runt. You're going soft. With the enemy of our business no less. However, there is one last action you can perform before departing."
Before I could ask what is was, I feel my systems taking over as my self-destruct sequence activated.
Onix:
"Sir, please! I beg of you! Just let me continue on my-"
?:
"I'm afraid that is all the time we have. Have a nice day, valued customer. (Chuckles Mockingly)"
CALL CLOSED
I start to panic as I try to shut down my self-destruct sequence. Though, it was no use as my superiors have locked down my system. Which is bad because I see Toby swimming his way towards me.
'I'm sorry, Toby.'
Before I start to lose hope, my earlier captor, or as documented NME client #345849 King Dedede, is coming our way in a speed boat. Suddenly, I calculated a new plan. It will cost my life, but it will save Toby's.
'It has been nice knowing you Toby. I will always treasure our moments together, even if it was short. Goodbye... my friend.'
Toby's POV
After a few minutes of tiresome swimming, I finally made it to Onix.
"Onix, I'm so happy that you're okay!" I said hugging my dog.
Though, a closer inspection, I see that his eyes were blinking as a beeping noise was sounding off. My eyes widen in realization.
'No... it can't be.'
But it was as even Onix' eyes showed digital numbers that were counting down. It says that there was 16 seconds left.
"Onix, you have to fight it! You don't need to do this!" I said desperately trying to knock some senses. "I know you're a good dog. More than that. You're a good friend."
Onix didn't say anything as tears actually started pouring from his glass eyes. Some were threatening to come out of mine too if the waters weren't washing them away.
"We got him now!"
I turn to see King Dedede and Escargoon coming our way with a net ready. Before I could react, Onix suddenly jumps out and right into Dedede's net as all three of them sped off. All I can do is watch helplessly as Onix' demise was about to come.
"...No..." I whispered.
KABOOM!
"AAAHH!"
It finally came as Onix blew up in a big explosion. It destroyed Dedede's boat and sent him and Escargoon flying into the waters.
'I can't believe it... Onix is gone.' I thought as cried silently.
As if the universe wants to rub it in, a broken ear piece of Onix lands in front of me. I pick it up and held it tight.
"I'll never forget you my friend."
Miku's POV
It has been hours since Onix' demise. Toby has not been taking it well as he has spent hours sitting in the beach looking in the distances. The moon being the only light shining over him with many stars sparkling as well. Me, Tiff, and Tuff were a distances away looking at Toby with sympathy.
"Tiff... do you think that dog... was a monster?" Tuff asks.
"Now will never now." Tiff sighs.
"But even if it was, it was actually Kirby's friend as it never hurt him. I see that now." I added.
"Tiff, Tuff, Miku..."
We all turn to see Gengu of all Cappy coming to us. He was holding some sort of squirrel/hedgehog robot toy. It had the same color scheme as Onix.
"Hey, were did you get that one?" Tuff questions.
"Uh, I wanted to make Kirby another pet." Gengu looks at Kirby who was still looking at the sea. "But nothing can replace the friend he lost."
"Don't worry. I'm sure Kirby will keep Onix inside his heart." Tiff said with a little smile.
I look at Toby before going over to his side. I see that he still had one of Onix' piece in his hands. I sigh as I fiddle with my white bow.
"Hey, Toby... I just wanted to say that I'm-"
"It's okay, Miku." He stops me. "I know you were trying to protect me. I won't hold it against."
I look down for a moment before going over and giving my soulmate a hug, to which he returns.
"I don't want to fight like that again." I said with a tear coming from my eye.
"Me neither."
We both held each other for who knows how long. Though, one thing is for sure. We will always have each other.
Third Person View
Far away deep within space is an extremely large scaled space station. It could house at least half a planet as its occupants spend their time creating and selling dreaded monsters throughout the galaxy. It is the infamous base known as Nightmare Enterprises. Deep within the bowels of the corporation is the enemy of the entire galaxy. He is the one and only, Nightmare.
"How did the mission on Pop Star go?" Nightmare asks. "Did that Star Warrior met his end?"
The person he is talking to is one of his top salesmen in NME. This one is named Tim.
"I'm afraid the mission was a failure, Sir." Tim answered. "The little runt of a K-9 Unit refused to follow orders and managed to save the enemy's life."
Nightmare growled as he clutches his bony fist.
"Curses! Another plot foiled."
"However, we did pick up something very interesting you might want to see."
Nightmare looks closely as a monitor appears. It reveals to the monster maker of Onix' encounters with Kirby. Nightmare has caught something strange. There was another figure that looks like Kirby, but is apparently female and is blue. What else is strange is that when Kirby is alone, he is referred as Toby instead.
"Hmm... something is not right. I don't know what, but there is definitely something going on that I'm not aware of." Nightmare said rubbing his chin.
"What should we do about this?" Tim asks, ready to take orders.
"I want a crew sent to Pop Star and set up a base at the edge of Dreamland. I want them to keep an eye out on what is going on."
"I know just the person to put in charge of the mission."
Tim goes over to the large computer and starts typing something. After a few moments, a figure comes out of an elevator that is nearby. This new person was a tall bipedal bird-like creature with white feathers and black tip wings. They wore silver armor with the companies logo imprinted on the front gold lining. On their face was not a silver helmet, but a black elegant venetian mask that covered the top half of their face. Leaving the lower part exposing the little beak.
"You summon me, Sir." They ask kneeling.
"Yes, Captain Margret. You have been assigned to a new post on Pop Star. You will be given the supplies and resources to man the base. Further instructions will be sent to you upon arrival."
Margret smirks as she removes her mask, revealing a well groomed face with sky-blue eyes. On top of her head is three long loose feathers lined up perfectly.
"I will not disappoint you, Sir."
_Author's Notes:_
Man, this chapter is probably one of my longest ones yet. Nearly 10,000 words?! Damn! Anyway, I've tried to find other alternatives to saving Onix, but I couldn't. Besides, I thought I would go with the whole 'not every battle will be a victory' kind of thing for this chapter. Also, I have decided to add another character to the show. Why it was a anthro bird you ask? Well, I was thinking of Regular Show at the time when I was writing this so... why the hell not?
By the way, I apologies for any faulty grammars. The damn thing keeps glitching out every time I save my edits. I may have said this before, but I just can't get over it. (-_-)'
Anyway, I hope you guys liked the chapter. What will happen now that a new player has come into the game? Will there be more friends for Toby to make? How far until Nightmare starts to piece together Galaxia's secret plan? Find out next time on 'Toby Right Back At Ya!'!
Rest In Peace
Onix