26. The Unmovable Golem
Every Pretty Cure, including the fairies, Tint, and Matt kept staring at the giant volcano that contained the Wonder Color Red inside of it. They are a bit scared knowing that the volcano is a very hot and dangerous place.
"Are you really serious?" Cure Black said in great concern.
"What? You want the easy way?" Mayor Gravel said in a sarcastic tone. "Well, we didn't make this choice."
"Indeed," King Tyran followed and crossed his arms, "only the true Pretty Cures can enter the volcano and retrieve the Wonder Color Red in such a dangerous place. If you want it, then that's where you have to go."
Cure Black drooped in sorrow. "I can't believe this…" she said in little sorrow.
"Oh, Black." Cure White said trying to comfort Black.
King Tyran continues to speak, "But getting into that volcano is not as easy as you think."
Tyran's statement blinked the Pretty Cure team in a little surprise. "What do you mean?" Cure Diamond asked.
Mayor Gravel speaks up, "Just about a quarter of a mile away from this village is the pathway into the volcano. Once you've arrived at the entrance of the pathway, you'll come across a gatekeeper that stands in your way. And that gatekeeper is impossible for anyone to just let someone through and into the volcano."
"My owner is right." King Tyran followed, "Only those who are wise and strong enough can pass the gatekeeper with ease. If you Pretty Cures have what it takes to get passed that gatekeeper, then you prove to us that you are the true heroes of Spectrum Land."
"But be warned," Mayor Gravel interrupted, "it is said that gatekeeper is really unmovable."
When they heard what Mayor Gravel and King Tyran said about the gatekeeper, the Pretty Cure team looked at each other in dread thinking if this gatekeeper is really hard to get past. They kept thinking what the gatekeeper is going to look like and how tough it will be, until…
Thunk! The Pretty Cure team heard someone collapsed to the ground. They turned to the person, and in shock they see Cure Happy lying her whole body facing toward the ground.
"Happy!" Cure Peace cried.
Cures Sunny and Beauty rushed over to Happy to check on her condition. "Happy! Are you okay?" Sunny said and panicked.
"I'm so thirsty…" Cure Happy moaned, "I can't move…"
"It's okay," Cure Beauty said in little relief, "she just needs something to drink."
But with Cure Happy bringing up something to drink, she got a few other Pretty Cures needed a drink too.
"I need a drink too." Cure Princess said as she suddenly sat to the ground and wiping the sweat off her head.
"Aaaahhhh…I want water please…" Cure Melody moaned as she feels her throat dried.
"Me too… please!" Cure Marine complained as she raised one of her hands into the air.
The other Pretty Cures see their teammates in heat-exhaustion condition that the other Cures know they can't continue forward until their friends are recovered from thirst. Matt, the fairies, and Tint see their Pretty Cure friends in their condition and know that they needed help.
"It seems that last battle from those Blots got you girls really hot and tired." Mayor Gravel said as raised one of his eyebrows. "Why don't you rest for a bit and have some of Sculptville's pure and delicious water."
When every Pretty Cure heard what the mayor said, they were surprised and happy to hear the good news.
"Really!? You mean it?" Cure Peach said with joy.
"Of course." King Tyran replied, "Red Volcano is a humid and dry place, so you Pretty Cures deserve good hydration to stay strong and alive."
With what King Tyran said, the team is relieved to be thanked by the people of Sculptville.
Everything is quiet and peaceful in Sculptville after an hour has passed. The people and dinosaurs in Sculptville are repairing their homes from the damage by the Blots. While the citizens are fixing their houses and buildings, the Pretty Cure team is in the main square of the town where it contained a giant fountain spouting out pure and clean water. Because the fountain's water is so pure, people can drink the water from the fountain. Some of the Pretty Cures use mugs made from Sculptville to fill their cups with water, while a few Pretty Cures chugged water within the fountain. Mayor Gravel and King Tyran are with the Pretty Cures watching them feel relaxed after drinking pure water from the fountain.
"Pretty interesting how this huge fountain contains fresh clean water for us to drink it." Cure Mint said with a grin.
"It's the only one of kind fountain you'll find here in Sculptville." Mayor Gravel responds to Mint. "Here in Sculptville we work very hard every day, so a lot of people come here to this fountain for water to drink and stay hydrated. And since this fountain is in the center of Sculptville, it's easy to me, my people, and the dinosaurs to come here for more fresh water to drink and head back to their work site when they are refreshed."
"Aaaahhhh! That feels good!" Cure Happy said with a big smile after she drank a lot of water from the fountain.
"This water is so good and pure." Cure March said with a grin, "I feel so cool and refreshed now."
Cure Rouge grabbed a mug full of water, but instead of drinking it, she splashes the water on herself to cool from the muggy heat and sweat. "Ah…, that feels better." Rouge said with a grin.
"This water is really good." Matt said with little awe, "No doubt about it."
"I see you Pretty Cures are cool and refreshed enough to continue on." King Tyran said as he sees the Pretty Cures feeling better.
"(Sigh)…Yep, I think we can proceed on, now that we're cool and hydrated." Tarte said happily after he chugged a cup of water.
"Kyua Kyua Puri-pu!" Chiffon said happily after drinking a cup of water.
"I'm good and ready to go-da ze." Glassan said with a grin.
Before the Pretty Cure team is about to set out for the Wonder Color Red, a question came into Cure Heart's head. "Hold on, don't you guys need any help repairing your homes from the damage done by Erass?" Heart asked.
"Don't worry about us." Mayor Gravel replied with a smile. "We Sculptville people are born to work hard every day. We build houses, parks, buildings, and of course sculptures here in this busy town. You Pretty Cures must focus on retrieving that Wonder Color and save our world."
"He's right." King Tyran speaks up, "It's only a matter of time until your world, our world, and galaxy's colors have disappeared for good. We're counting on you girls to save Spectrum Land."
"Well then, what are we waiting for?" Tint said as she is now refreshed from drinking plenty of water. "Let's go get that Wonder Color back."
"But remember everyone," Matt speaks up to team, "there's this gatekeeper we need to pass in order to get into the volcano and retrieve the Wonder Color."
"Don't worry Matt." Cure Rosetta said and comforts Matt, "We'll overcome that gatekeeper that stands in our way."
"But the mayor and king said this gatekeeper is unmovable. What did he mean by that?"
"Well whatever this gatekeeper is, the only way to get that Wonder Color is by defeating that blocker." Cure Fortune said with a wink.
"It's not as easy as you think my young friends." Mayor Gravel speaks. He got the team's attention. "That gatekeeper is a lot tougher and bigger than you think."
"What do you mean by that?" Cure Beauty asked.
"You'll see and find out when you get there." King Tyran said and warned the team.
"So which way do we take to get to the gatekeeper?" Cure Ace questioned.
Mayor Gravel pointed the way. "Head down this path and keeping going straight until you come across a gorge. Go through the gorge and you'll encounter the gatekeeper waiting at the entrance."
"Thanks Mayor." Cure Dream said with a smile. "Well, off to the gatekeeper and the next Wonder Color. It's decided!"
"Aw, you guys are leaving?" Someone called out to the Pretty Cure team. The team heard the voice and turned toward the source which is Tino. He and his pet dinosaur Dino we're coming up towards the team. "I wanna get to know you more, but with you being Pretty Cure heroes, you saving the world is your first priority."
"Sorry Tino," Cure Lovely apologizes and bows, "but we'll get to know each other more when we come back with the Wonder Color from the volcano."
"I'll bet my hat on that…if I had a hat that is."
"We'll be busy restoring Sculptville." Dino speaks, "but before you go, I want to tell you one piece of advice."
"What is it?" Cure Lemonade asked.
"I remember from Dinosaur Academy that there is just only one thing it likes that will make the unmovable gatekeeper move. But the problem is that I don't know what that thing is."
"Only one thing, huh…?" Cure Beauty said and thought to herself.
"What could be that thing?" Milky Rose wondered.
"I'm pretty sure you girls can figure out." Tino said with a grin, "After all, you're the heroes of our world."
"We believe in you Pretty Cures." Dino said with a smile.
"Thanks you guys." Cure Blossom said with a grin.
"Well, let's get a move on." Tint said and ordered.
The team nodded in agreement to Tint. With everyone on the team refreshed of drinking plenty of water, they headed off into the direction where the gatekeeper is being held. As soon the Pretty Cure team started to walk away, the mayor, the chief dinosaur, Tino, and Dino watched the heroic team with little concerns on their faces.
"Good luck, Pretty Cures." Mayor Gravel said to himself.
Minutes passed as the Pretty Cure team are in a gorge that leads to the gatekeeper. Every Pretty Cure is ready for action, but they are concerned about what this gatekeeper is going to look like. As the team continued to proceed to the gatekeeper, Matt kept staring at the Pretty Cures for a while when a thought is clouding his mind. Cure Mint noticed Matt's concerned look and she starts speaking to him.
"Matthew, what's wrong?" Cure Mint asked.
Mint got Matt's attention. "Oh! Uh…sorry. It's just I'm wondering something about you girls."
"What is it?" Cure Aqua asked as she is next to Mint.
Matt calmly speaks, "Well, before you were Pretty Cures, did you all used to be regular and normal girls living an ordinary life?" With Matt's question spoken out, every Pretty Cure turned to Matt with a little-surprised reaction.
"Yes Matt," Cure Moonlight answered, "but why'd you asked?"
"Well, I dunno…" Matt then makes a little concern look on his face. "Isn't it seemed tough that you have to fight these villains that pop out of the blue and live like ordinary girls at the same time? Or didn't your lives were a lot easier before you became Pretty Cure fighters?" After that question Matt spoke up, every Pretty Cure warrior paused a moment and looked at each other. It was then they all smiled and giggled a little. Matt saw all the girls' reaction, and he made a confused look. "What? Is it something wrong I said?" Matt asked.
"No, Matt." Cure March replied, "We like to say yes and no at the same time."
"Huh? What do you mean?"
Cure Rhythm speaks up to Matt, "Matthew, do you remember back in Blue Ocean that we didn't want to be Pretty Cures at first?" Matt nodded that he remembered that statement. "It was because it was so sudden to us that we have to fight these monsters even though we're just ordinary girls."
"You can say Matt that it was an unexpected event that happened to us." Cure Melody continued, "And we didn't know if this is what we needed to do."
Matt then comes up with another thought, "But if that was the case, and you all had a choice, why did you accept your heroic role then?"
"Matthew Oda," Cure White speaks to him, "Remember the reason why we fight our enemies?"
At that statement and moment, Matt paused and begins to think. He tries to remember what the Pretty Cures say about their mission for fighting the enemy. With careful thinking, he remembered the reason. "Was it because to protect the people and friends you cared?" Matt answered.
"That's correct Matt." Cure Honey. "Right on the money."
"But if that's true…couldn't you just rescue the person who's in danger and get away?"
"Um, Matthew Oda…" Cure Ace speaks to him. Matt heard and sees Ace with a concerned look on her face. "What's wrong? You sound worried. Why are you so concerned about us?"
After Ace's question, Matt stopped walking. He caused the Pretty Cure team to stop too as they all see him in a greatly worried state. Matt took a deep breath and sighed, and then he speaks. "Young ladies…, we're about to head into the volcano, and I have the general idea that it is a dangerous place. Not only that, but we have this gatekeeper to deal with, and this guy is tough. Thing is…you pretty girls fight not to save people, but you put yourselves in a dangerous position. You girls save many lives as the defending warriors of your world…, but…did you even think what would've happened to you if your lives were at stake? I mean…one false move or mistake can cost your life." All the Pretty Cure warriors, including the fairies and Tint, continued to stare at Matt without a response. "You know me that I'm a gentleman, and even though we just became good friends, I think about your situations and lives. I think about others. So, I'm saying is…wouldn't it be better that your lives were just normal, and you didn't have to worry about putting yourselves in a place that's dangerous that you can really lose your life?" The Pretty Cure team blinked after Matt made his final question. "It's just…" Matt paused for a moment, he took a deep breath and exhaled, and speaks again, "…I don't want you girls to die."
Not one Pretty Cure speaks up to reply Matt's question. The team was a little surprised to hear Matt's great concern. Then after a few seconds of silence, Cure Heart speaks to Matt. "Matt-san…, you really cared about us that much?" Heart said with a calm tone.
"Well Heart," Matt speaks, "it's just that you are all sweet and kind girls. What makes so special about you all is that you really have pure golden hearts. I know that. I was just worried to see such innocent and compassionate girls get hurt."
With Matthew Oda speaking truthfully about his feelings for the Pretty Cures, every girl smiled to Matt. Cure Lovely came up to Matt and pats his right shoulder. Matt noticed and sees Lovely in his sight. "Y'know Matthew," Cure Lovely speaks with an honest grin, "I'm really glad you cared for us." Matt blinked in little surprise after what Lovely said. "That just shows you have also a golden heart like us. I think you have the soul of a Pretty Cure."
"What? Me?" Matt questioned in surprise.
"I think Lovely is right." Cure Princess said as she smiles. "Matt does have that Pretty Cure soul."
"But…I'm not a Pretty Cure warrior."
"No you're not Matt," Cure Berry speaks as she taps Matt's nose. "But there are people out there who always supported us with all their heart."
"And you're one of them, Matt." Cure Muse stated with an honest grin.
"Truth be told, everyone, all of us, has that Pretty Cure soul in our hearts." Cure Egret said.
"Hmm…" Matt became surprised but interested to hear what the Pretty Cures said. But then a thought came into his mind. "But if everyone back in our home world has that Pretty Cure soul you call it, how come you girls are special and you can transform?"
"Perhaps I should tell you my story, Matt-san." Cure Blossom said as she approached Matt. "Your Pretty Cure soul is only for supporting us whenever we are in grave danger. That soul power gives us energy. But to us, we are a little different but have a very special soul. When I moved to my new hometown called Kibougahana, I was so introverted and had a hard time fitting in with everyone." Blossom turns to Cure Marine, "Especially Erika, Cure Marine." Marine giggled in a cheeky mood. "But one time, even though I just met Marine, I saw her life was in danger. Her heart was being controlled by evil. In that moment, I heard Marine's sorrow and despair from her manipulated heart. When I heard that, I had to save her, even it means putting my life at risk. I didn't know what was going to happen to me, but I wanted was to save her from the darkness that's tainting her heart. It was then because of my pure heart to save Marine, I transformed and became a Pretty Cure. But I didn't stop there. It wasn't just to save my best friend, but I turned into a Pretty Cure to save all the innocent people that are in danger and manipulated. I became a Pretty Cure because I wanted to save all the people, those who I do and don't know, to save their pure and innocent hearts." Matt understands every word what Blossom said, and he felt a little surprised. "And that Matt is the heroic role of a Pretty Cure. And not only that, after I became a Pretty Cure, I had a wonderful life." Matt blinked in surprise to hear what Blossom said. "My life changed when I became a Pretty Cure. I was more outgoing, I met Shypre, Coffret, and Potpourri, I went to another world, I met wonderful people, and most of all…" Cure Marine, Sunshine, and Moonlight came together near Blossom. "I made wonderful and special friends." The other Heartcatch Pretty Cures nodded and smiled in agreement with Blossom.
Matt was speechless. He was really surprised to hear how becoming a Pretty Cure changed Blossom's life.
"Same thing to me." Matt heard, and he turned to see that Cure Peace spoke up. "I was always scared and shy to meet new people, especially I cry easily. I had a hard time showing myself how creative and imaginative I am with my artwork. But when I met Cure Happy and Sunny just how special and creative I am, I felt so befriended and warm at that moment. And when those two are in peril cuz of a monster, I couldn't let it hurt my very good friends. That's when a warm and bright light came to me, and I became a Pretty Cure. Not only it's my job to save the people I care for them, but after becoming a Pretty Cure I had a terrific experience of having these magical powers, meeting interesting people, and of course having a fantastic life with my great friends."
"I know just what you are saying." Matt heard and turned to Cure Princess who spoke up. "After I became a Pretty Cure and met Lovely for the first time, my life changed completely. I was always shy and couldn't fit in well with others, but thanks to Lovely and the others when we join together as Happiness Charge Pretty Cures, I became one happy girl. I met a lot of people to save their hearts, and I enjoyed a magnificent life with my great friends. Even though I'm a princess from another world, being a Pretty Cure, a princess, and an ordinary girl at the same time doesn't bother me a bit."
Matt blinked and flinched a little when noticed something. "Wait, what?" Matt said in little shock. "Cure Princess, did you say that you are a princess from another world?"
"Yep Matt, the Blue Sky Kingdom is where I was originally born, and I live in the royal family line. And my real name is Himelda Window Cure Queen of the Blue Sky."
"That's…a hard name and title to remember… 'Hime' is fine with me." Matt followed up with a curious look on his face. "But I'm a little astounded that I met not a Pretty Cure warrior, but a royal and sweet princess from another world."
"Well, she's not the only one." Cure Muse said. Matt heard her and turns to her. Cure Muse just smiled to Matt Oda.
"Wha…!? You're a princess too?"
"Indeed Matt-san. I am the princess from a place called Major Land, a world full of wonderful, tuneful, and beautiful music."
Matt couldn't believe what he just heard. It almost got him faint in great surprise. "Wow…, but isn't it tough for you princesses to be Pretty Cures and live in royalty at the same time?"
"Not at all Matt." Cure Muse replied calmly. "Although I may be a princess from another world, I took on the role to become a Pretty Cure because I wanted to save the people that I cared and love. After I took the Pretty Cure role and start living with Melody and the others, I realized my life is a lot more fun when I'm hanging around with my best Pretty Cure friends."
"Same thing to me Matt." Cure Princess said and got Matt's attention. "Being a princess is one thing. But to be a Pretty Cure and hanging out with your Pretty Cure buddies, that's a whole another thing to be happy about."
Matt became even more astounded to hear this news. "Wow…, so you mean your lives we're a lot better after you became Pretty Cure than just being regular human girls."
"Well, not everyone is exactly a human girl, Matt." Cure Beat speaks. Matt heard and turns to Beat. "I may look like a young girl at first, but in truth, I was actually born as a fairy."
Matt blinked again in surprise. "What? But you look like a normal girl to me." Matt said with little shock.
Cure Beat calmly shook her head but kept smiling at Matt. "Before I became a Pretty Cure, I was really a cat fairy, like Hummy."
"That's right-nya." Hummy followed. "Beat was once a great cat fairy who is also a great singer-nya."
"But then…what happened to you now?" Matt asked.
Beat, with an honest grin, gently replies to Matt, "During the time I was being controlled by an evil leader named Noise, he along with his manipulated cohorts kidnapped my friend Hummy. But Hummy always believed me, and our friendship will never be broken. I was forced to a choice that if I didn't sing this tragic melody, my friend Hummy would be threatened. Even when I refused to sing, the minions still try to hurt Hummy. But I couldn't let them hurt my dear friend. It was at that time something warm and bright glowed in my heart. When that happened, I transformed. I was no longer a cat fairy anymore, but I became not only a human girl but a Pretty Cure warrior. Even though I felt completely lost myself in all the sins and harmful acts I did back then, Hummy, Melody, and the other Suite Pretty Cures guided me to the light. I couldn't fix the evil mistakes I did back then, but when and after I became a Pretty Cure warrior, my life felt so much happier like a warm soulful tune cured my heart. Because I'm a Pretty Cure now, I atoned my sins, saved many lives, I have a great life, and I lived as an extraordinary and wonderful girl with Hummy and the other cures."
"Whoa…" Matt said in little surprise. "I remembered that you were a reformed enemy just like what you said, but I didn't expect or give a thought that becoming a Pretty Cure warrior saved your tragic past and your life."
"The power of the Pretty Cure works in mysterious but in grateful and magical ways." Cure Ace speaks to Matt. Matt heard her as he turns to her with her smile on her face. "To make things more interesting to you Matt, me and Shiny Luminous are not originally born as girls by biological means."
"Wha —? What does that mean?" Matthew questioned.
"I can help you with that." Cure White speaks as she got Matt's attention. "In other words, Shiny Luminous and Cure Ace are actually part of one person, each of their own."
"Part of a person…?" Matt paused a moment for a thought of curiosity. "Wait, you mean Luminous and Ace are, you can say, reincarnated?"
"Not quite Matt." Cure White still smiles and explains to Matt. "Shiny Luminous and Cure Ace are actually split personalities, or part of a soul, of the original person. Shiny Luminous, Hikari, is the shell and life of the queen of light from another world. As Cure Ace, Aguri, is the light shell and soul of a royal princess in another world."
"Then wait a minute!" Matt said in surprise and realization, "if I understand correctly, then that means…Luminous and Ace are girls but not born like an average human."
"You got it, Matt." Shiny Luminous answered with a grin.
"So then…, how did you two become like…who you are now?"
Shiny Luminous calmly speaks, "After I was split into the girl I'm am now from a gold-hearted queen, I didn't know who I am. I first woke up, and I was standing in a field overlooking a peaceful city. I was bewildered and why am I born like this. It felt like I had no memory of who I really am. But then after meeting Cure Black and White, Nagisa and Honoka, and becoming Shiny Luminous, it was the most wonderful thing that happened to me. Even though I was part of the queen of the light and I was a vital piece to save the queen's life, being around with my good friends and visiting so many great places was the warmest feeling I ever felt in my life. I even wanted to save many people and friends that I cared and loved so much. That is why, even though we restored the queen, she left me to live on as a wonderful being. You can call it a blessing for me to live."
"As for me Matt," Cure Ace speaks and got Matt's attention, "I am the heart's light side of a princess named Marie Ange." Ai-chan then floated in front of Cure Ace. Ace comfortably catches Ai-chan as she landed in Ace's arms. "And Ai-chan here is the princess Ange before you."
Matt looked at the baby fairy, but his face turned perplexed. "Uh… doesn't look like a princess to me." Matt said in confusion.
Cure Ace however calmly shakes her head in disagreement as she smiles. "You see Matthew, Ai-chan is really the princess that I'm a part of her. Ai-chan, also known as Marie Ange, was about to be defeated, and her heart was about to take over by an enemy we know. But at the last moment, her power split her heart in half, one-half light, and the other half dark, and she turned into this baby fairy form. The light half of her heart was brought to earth, and it turned to into me. When I awoke, I had no idea why I was born or who am I. Next thing I know, there is this great caretaker who called me Aguri and took me in. Then I realized after meeting Ai-chan and who I partially am, I became a Pretty Cure to fight for the good. I then met Cure Heart and the others, and although we do have rough and hard times, we still have many wonderful adventures and days together. And even though we defeated our enemy, there was no way to bring Princess Marie Ange back again, but she wanted Ai-chan, me the light side of her heart, and the dark side of her heart, to continue on and bring peace to Earth."
"And…you're okay with that?" Matt said in concern, "Even though the dark side of her is evil."
"Oh no, Matt. The dark side of the princess's heart became good, she just has a few bad points of her." Cure Ace continues to smile as she pets Ai-chan on her head. "But what's most important Matthew is, it doesn't matter whether you're a real human or part of someone else, a person with a heart who has compassion, kindness, loyalty, honesty, and love, is what a truly good person is. Becoming a Pretty Cure to protect the people that I cared and loved is not my job, but it's what my heart desired. And hanging around with my teammates, I mean, my friends Heart and the others, is the best and glorious thing that happened to me in my life."
"Kyu-pi!" Ai-chan agreed with Cure Ace.
After hearing all of these stories from the Pretty Cures, Matt was speechless but became awe. He never would've imagined that becoming a Pretty Cure can really change a person's life for a better and happy ending. He also never expected that two Pretty Cures are princesses from different worlds, a fairy that turned into a permanent human and a Pretty Cure, and two Pretty Cures that are part of another person yet they lived on as regular girls. Matt is surprised to see how these Pretty Cures kept moving forward no matter what kind of danger they will encounter. All he knows for sure is that the Pretty Cures never give up for the sake of the people they wanted to protect. Matt then looked around to see all the Pretty Cures still smiling at Matt saying not to worry so much. Matt took a deep breath and exhaled.
"I…I don't know what to say…" Matt said in little concern. Matt then grins a little, "But…if that's how you all feel…, then I guess I won't stop ya." Matt rubs the back of his head. "I'm sorry if I worried you girls too much. Like I said, I just don't want you girls to die. But…from hearing all of your stories and experiences as Pretty Cures, I can understand how you achieve and overcome many obstacles and situations in your lives. I think I'm learning about you Pretty Cures every hour on this journey, and what it is to be a true hero."
"Well Matthew," Cure Fortune speaks to him, "We're just glad you understand about us, and thanks for believing and caring for us too."
"Thanks, Fortune." Matt smiles as continues to speak, "I don't know if I do have this 'Pretty Cure soul' you call it, but you're inspiring words reminded me of a wise line someone said."
"What's that?" Cure Sunny asked.
"The line is: A true hero doesn't measure by the size of his strength, but by the strength of his heart."
Some of the Pretty Cures are intrigued by the line Matt said. "Now that is inspiring…and wise." Cure Rhythm said in interest.
"Thanks again for caring us, Matt." Milky Rose said with a smile and a wink. "You are a gentleman, that I can vouch."
"Thanks, Milky Rose," Matt replied in little shyness, "I appreciate that."
Cure Melody approaches to Matt and puts her left arm around him. "What do you say, Matt?" Melody said with a wink, "Shall we continue on?"
"Yeah, let's go." Matt replied with a smile, "We won't save Spectrum Land just by standing here, and I don't need to worry about you girls anymore."
With that said from Matt, the Pretty Cure team moved forward and continued walking through the gorge. As the team progressed, Tint sees the Pretty Cure team as she smiles. "They are even braver than I thought." Tint thought. "If my heart is pure and strong like them, then maybe my dream will come true."
A few more minutes passed as the Pretty Cure team came to the end of the gorge. When they reached and arrived at the end of the trail, they all looked up in their view. Stood in front of their view is the giant volcano just behind a huge rocky hill. The team can see a trail of the hill leading into the volcano. And at the starting point of the trail are two huge steep, tall, and hard walls on each side of the trail with a huge stone pillar blocking the trail. There's also a little wooden cabin next to the beginning of the trail.
"That must be it." Tint speaks, "That trail on that hill leads into the volcano."
"And it looks like the volcano still hasn't erupted yet." Matt said as he sees smoke coming out from the volcano's top. "But I think we better act fast. It's a matter of time before that volcano will explode."
"Right Matt." Cure Aqua agreed, "Let's get a move on."
"There's a cabin down there too." Cure Rosetta noted and pointed. "Maybe somebody in there will let us through."
"Could be the gatekeeper the mayor mentioned." Cure Honey suggested.
The Pretty Cure team continued to walk as they approached the cabin. Once the team is a few feet away from the front door, Cure Pine volunteered to approach the door and knock. "Hello? Is someone in there?" Cure Pine asked and called out. There were a few seconds of silence, and there was no response. Just then, the team heard the clicking sounds of the locks coming from inside the cabin. The door slowly opened wide enough for a person to peek outside. It was then a man peeked from in his cabin.
It is an old short man who has thick white hair all over on his face. His eyebrows are bushy covering his eyes, his mustache is thick and hairy which covers his mouth, and his beard his bushy and long to his shoulder level. He has white hair with a thick red fez on his head. He wears a light brown coat with two buttons on each side of the zipper. He also carries a short staff to help his walking. His body height is about four feet tall.
"Oh…, uh…, may I help you…?" said the old man only moving his mustache as he speaks.
"Hi there," Cure Egret speaks, "We wanna get inside that volcano up there."
"You youngsters? I wouldn't dare to try. Ever since that smoke starting coming out of the volcano, it's on the verge to erupt any minute now. Turn back if I were you."
"But sir," Cure Sunshine interrupted, "we need to get into that volcano."
"Uh sorry youngsters, but I can't let you through. That's my final decision." Then the old man is about to close the door to his cabin.
"Wait please!" Cure Lovely shouted, "We need that Wonder Color that's inside that volcano."
At that moment, the old man stopped himself from closing his front door. He peeked outside at the Pretty Cure team. "Wha…What did you say?"
"Sorry to disturb you sir," Cure Peach said, "but we are looking for the Wonder Color in this area, so we can save Spectrum Land."
The old man raised one of his eyebrows in suspicion. "Who are you, fellas?"
"We're Pretty Cure, here to save your world." Cure Peace responded.
The old man then opened the door all the way, but he still makes his suspicious look on the Pretty Cure team. "How do I know you're the legendary warriors here to save Spectrum Land?"
"I would assume this is proof enough for you." Matt replied as he showed the old man the Wonder Color Case.
The old man gets a quick glimpse of the case, then he jolted a little in surprise. "Gadzooks!" he shouted, "You are the Pretty Cure warriors of Spectrum Land." He then stepped out of his cabin and greets the Pretty Cures with a bow. "Forgive me for being suspicion on you. I was just trying to be cautious for who is friend or foe."
"Don't worry, we know a few people who are like that." Cure Rouge said.
"So now that you know who we are, can you let us through and get us into that volcano?" Cure Mint asked.
"I would young ones," the old man said calmly, "but I'm not the one you should be asking."
The Pretty Cure team then makes a puzzled look on their faces. "Wait," Cure Diamond speaks, "aren't you the gatekeeper of this place?"
"Me? Oh no, miss. I'm Halt, the caretaker of the gatekeeper, you're talking to the wrong guy."
"Eh?" said some of the Pretty Cure warriors.
"I figured you are not the gatekeeper." Matt noted and thought, "Judging by your appearance, you don't look so strong and unmovable."
"But…if you're not the gatekeeper, then who is?" Cure Berry asked.
"Not who is Miss, what is…" Halt answered. He then started walking and leading the team. "Come with me, and I'll show you."
The team followed Holt until they all arrived in front of a strange and giant pillar about high as a four-story building and wide as a quarter of a soccer field. The pillar is in the way of the path that leads into the volcano. With the two steep and tall walls close to the pillar, there's no way to get around the pillar.
"So uh…, where's this gatekeeper?" Cure Bloom asked.
"Just give me a sec." Halt replied calmly. He took a deep breath, and then… "GOLIATH!" That loud shout from Halt almost jolted the Pretty Cure team.
After Halt's shout, the team waited for the anticipation, but so far nothing happened. They waited a few more seconds, but so far nothing. Then one of the Pretty Cures speaks. "Excuse me, but uh…who's Goliath?" Cure Passion asked.
"Wait, and you'll see." Halt answered.
Just then, the team felt a little rumble from the ground. The Pretty Cure team looked to see where the shaking is coming from, but couldn't find the source.
"Wha…What's happening!?" Cure Marine panicked.
"Hey! Look!" Tint shouted and pointed. Everyone looked to see where Tint pointed. When the Pretty Cures, the fairies, and Matt looked, they all blinked and gasped in surprise.
All of a sudden the giant pillar started to move. Two long arms extended out on each side of the pillar, It split into two thick legs, the pillar turned into a thick torso, and finally the top of the pillar turned into a grumpy and aggressive head that's shadowing its eyes. The pillar is no longer a pillar, but a giant, hard, and rocky golem. It then crossed its arms and stood still like a statue.
All the Pretty Cures, the fairies, Matt Oda, and Tint gasped in great shock to witness a humungous being in front of their eyes.
"Wha-!? What is that!?" Cure Marine shouted in surprise.
"That's…That's a golem." Matt replied. "I knew they're ancient and legendary guardian statues that protect mankind or temples, but I never expect to see one in person. But I should expect something like this phenomenon to happen in another world."
"So… you mean to tell us… this is the gatekeeper we have to deal with?" Cure Rouge said in astonishment.
"That's right Miss." Halt agreed, "This is Goliath, a very strong and powerful golem who's been the gatekeeper for many generations." Then the giant golem, with his aggressive face, looked at his caretaker. Halt sees the golem face to face. "I'm sorry to disturb your rest my good friend, but we have heroes here." Goliath kept staring at Halt. "These are the Pretty Cures, they want to pass by to get into the volcano and retrieve the Wonder Color." Goliath didn't respond. "Will you please let them take their test?"
"A test?" Rhythm questioned.
The golem didn't say a word, but instead it moved its head back into its original position as it looks into the vast horizon. And the golem's body remained in a guard form with its arms crossed. The gatekeeper smiled.
"What happened?" Princess asked, "What did you do?"
"Everything's alright." Halt replied in calm joy, "I can sense him very well. He said he'll let you pass." The Pretty Cure team, except Matt, suddenly smiled and jumped for joy to hear such great news… "Ah! Ta, ta, ta! Hold on!" Everyone suddenly stopped, "That is on one occasion." The Pretty Cure team listened for the anticipation. "You must pass Goliath's test."
"You mentioned that." Diamond said, "So, what is this test?"
"Well, it sounds simple, but it's really hard."
"Go on, we're all ears." Tint said.
"Goliath will let you through and into the volcano only if you pass his test. And here's the test: You just need to make Goliath move."
Most of the Pretty Cures warriors turned confused. "Wait, just move him?" Black said as makes a sweat drop.
"That's just it. Do whatever you want to him. Force him, ask him, beg him. The whole point about Goliath's test is to make him move, even the slightest. But be warned, Goliath isn't a gatekeeper for nothing. Many unworthy and brave explorers did everything they can to move him, but none passed. Only a few did pass, but the answer to passing Goliath's test has always remained a secret. If you are the true Pretty Cure heroes who can save Spectrum Land, then prove yourselves you have the strength, the heart, and the knowledge to beat Goliath's test. If you all passed, then you proved yourselves more than worthy for Spectrum Land."
The Pretty Cure team heard and understood Halt's words. They all looked back at the giant golem with curious looks on their faces.
"So, it doesn't matter how we're going to move it," Aqua said with her hand on her chin, "We just need to make it move, even if it's an inch."
"So, any ideas?" Princess asked.
"Maybe some punches will make him move." Sunny suggested as she is fired up to attack.
"It's worth a try." Marine agreed.
"Then let's go!" Melody followed.
The three Cures, plus Rouge and Heart, dashed forth to the golem and prepared a fist attack. As the girls got close, they all landed their punches on the golem each girl in a different spot on the golem's huge body. But as a result…
"Ow! Ow! Ow! Ow! Ow! Ow! Ow!" Melody cried in pain as she shook her hand fast.
"My hand! It stings!" Marine screeched.
"I'm going to feel this pain next morning!" Heart cried as she held her hand that she used to punch the golem.
While the five Cures shouted in pain, the golem remained still as if he didn't feel a scratch.
"Those were hard punches," Beauty noted, "yet the golem didn't feel a thing."
"What else can we do?" Egret wondered in concern.
"I know!" Lemonade said with joy. "We can push the golem."
"That's a good start." Diamond agreed. "We can help."
Lemonade, Diamond, plus March, Sword, Peach, Milky Rose, and Beat all went for the golem's left foot. When the girls got into position, they all pushed the golem's foot in sync. They gave it with all their might to make the golem's foot move. But after two minutes passed…
"Ohhhh…. I'm beat…" March said in exhaustion.
"Stick a fork in me, I'm done." Diamond said as fell to the ground.
All the girls fell to the ground in complete exhaustion. They breathed heavily and sweated crazy.
"Well, any luck?" Milky Rose asked the team.
The rest of the Pretty Cure team turned their heads away in concern, but Matt speaks. "No dice." Matt said as he shook his head.
True to Matt's word, he and the other Cures witnessed the scene that the golem's foot never moved. And the golem remained still with his aggressive look on his face.
"Well…, any more ideas?" Peace asked in concern.
The Pretty Cure team scratches their heads and some put their hand on their chin as they think hard for another idea.
"Hey! I've got one!" Rhythm shouted as she came up with an idea. Everyone heard her and turned to her.
"What? What is it?" Happy asked.
Rhythm then looked around the ground as if she is looking for something important. She kept looking until she found it. She spotted a rock, the size of her hand, and picks it up. She then looks and aims at Goliath's head. After she got her aim, she pulled back her arm that has the rock in her hand. Finally, in a flash, she quickly threw the rock at lightning speed as it heads straight to the golem's head. The rock came in close to Goliath's head, and then… Thunk! The rock hit Goliath's forehead, and it bounced off and headed straight toward the ground. When the rock landed on the ground, Rhythm and everyone else waited to for the anticipation. The golem didn't move an inch and kept holding in the same stance as always. A minute passed and nothing happened. Knowing that nothing happened, Cure Sword breaks the silence as she speaks up.
"Uh…Rhythm…, what was that all about?" Sword asked.
Rhythm makes a little sweatdrop and pushes both her tip of her index fingers together. "Well…, do you remember the story of David and the giant?" Rhythm asks the team. The team responded with a quiet nod. "I thought I tried that move. But I guess that didn't work. Sorry." Rhythm turned a little embarrassed, but the whole team collapsed to the ground in humiliation.
"Rhythm!" Melody shouted in embarrassment.
"Rhythm, that's a bible story," Matt noted. "and that Goliath is a huge human. But this is real, and this Goliath is made out of stone."
"Yeah…, I should've figured." Rhythm said shyly, "But I thought it worked the same way since the giant golem is named Goliath."
"Rhythm, focus more on reality than trying to mimic something that works in made up stories." Cure Muse said in a firm tone of voice.
"Well Pretty Cures, ready to give up yet?" Halt asked the team.
"Uh-uh! No way!" Milky Rose said in revolt. "We come this far, and we're not ready to surrender yet."
"Suit yourself. I won't stop ya."
"Okay…what other ideas are there?" Lovely asked in sarcastic. The whole group got their thinking caps again.
"I've got something." Moonlight called out. The rest of the team heard and turned to her. "I have a theory. Instead of trying to move the golem by force, what if we can make Goliath move by an emotional reaction?"
"An emotional reaction?" Marine pondered.
"Ah, that's a good thought." Beauty said, "Halt didn't say we have to move the golem by someone's strength. We just do any kind of way to move him, whether it's by force or by itself."
"That's right." Matt said as he slams his right fist into the palm of his left hand, "If we can get that instant moment, then we can pass the test. It's just a matter of getting Goliath to move, such as crying or anger, at least an inch for that one moment."
"Yeah, I understand," Rosetta said in complete understanding, "But what emotion will Goliath react that's strong enough to make him move?"
"I have one." Mint speaks up to the team. Everyone turned to her. "I'll make the golem sad."
"Sad?" Matt asked.
"How?" Tint wondered.
"Just watch and have a tissue in your hand." Mint then walks toward the golem. Bewildered of Mint said, Matt and Tint looked confused and looked at each other.
Cure Mint arrived in front of Goliath, just a few yards away, as she looks up to the golem who still stares toward the horizon. "Goliath, I have a story that you'll find it memorable." Mint said with a gentle smile. Goliath didn't move or respond.
"A story?" Matt pondered. He and Tint wondered what Mint meant, but the two kept staring at her.
Mint took a calm breath and then speaks, "There was a boy who had a wonderful and loyal dog living in this plain yet wonderful house. The two played together every day as if they are family. They played together, and they have fun together. One day, a terrible storm appeared one night…" Mint continued on with her story as the Pretty Cure team, Halt, and Goliath listened to Mint's story.
As time passed by, Mint finished her story. "…And even though they can never be together again, the bond between him and the dog he loved so much will never die. Every day the boy always kept thinking of his friend as he still suffers from his broken heart." Mint finished her story. That's when…
"WAA-HA-HAA!" Cure Dream cried loudly, "That's so sad!"
"That…poor…dog…" Rhythm said in sorrow, "why did he have to die!?"
"It's not fair!" Marine cried, "That shouldn't end like that!"
Mint's story was a real tragic drama story. Her story was so sad that most of the Pretty Cures on the team cried in great sorrow. A few Pretty Cures looked sad and made tears, but they didn't cry loudly like a little baby. Matt and Tint even made tears after hearing Mint's tragic drama story.
"How…How could M-Mint…(Sniff)…make a sad story…like that?" Matt asked as he cried and feels sad.
"Well Matt," Cure Aqua speaks to him as she tries to control her sadness, "to tell you the truth, Mint dreams to be a novelist. She tends to write dramatic stories, and I can see and hear that she came up with a good sad story." Aqua makes a tear.
"Remind me Aqua…(Sniff)…that I should get an autograph from her. That was a good story."
"Get one for me too." Tint followed as she cried so much.
Aqua winked and gave the two guys a thumb's up.
After Mint gave Goliath a long and sad story, she took a deep breath. She then gently smiles and looks back at the team. "So…, how did I do?" Mint asked, "Did I get the golem emotional?"
"Well…," Rouge replies while she is also crying at the same time, "despite that your story is really sad and good. (Sniff)…Unfortunately…" Rouge pointed at Goliath.
Mint turned around to see Goliath's face. But to her surprise, Goliath didn't turn his face into sorrow, not even dropping a tear. "What?" Mint said in little shock, "But that should at least get him to make a tear. I don't understand."
"Actually Miss, Goliath does feel sad about that story's ending." Mint turned to see Halt, who spoke to her, with his tears covering his eyes. "I sense from Goliath that it was the most touching and sad story you have ever told to all of us. But…, it's still not strong enough to make Goliath react to that tragic story."
"Aw…, and I gave it my all." Mint said in disappointment, "That was the best one, and I thought Natts will adore that story."
"Uh, what did you say about Natts?" Matt asked and heard making a curious look.
"Ah! It's nothing!" Mint panicked as she falsely makes a smile and waves her hand back and forth.
"Well…(Sniff)," Fortune speaks as she wipes the tears off her eyes, "Despite that sad story is really good, it's not strong enough for Goliath to make him cry. So, any other possibilities?"
"Well so far…," Pine speaks, "sadness is not going to make Goliath cry and move an inch. What other emotions can we make Goliath feel?"
"I've got it!" Sunny shouted in glee.
"What? What'd you got?" Happy asked.
"How about some good jokes? Maybe some funny play on words and puns can make Goliath laugh."
"Yeah! That should do it!" Peace said happily with her eyes sparkle.
"That's a good approach." Matt agreed.
"Alright!" Sunny speaks with a big grin. "As Cure Sunny, it's my time to shine. Get it? Shine?" A few Pretty Cures giggled at Sunny's joke. Sunny then steps in front of Goliath where she can see his face. Goliath still didn't move. Sunny clears her throat, then she speaks. "Hey Mr. Giant Stone Guy, have I got a joke that'll knock your socks off if you have any socks of course." A few Pretty Cures giggled at Sunny's joke. "What did the picture say to the wall?" Goliath didn't respond, but Sunny speaks the punch line. "I've been framed! Ah!"
After hearing what Sunny said, most of the Pretty Cures laughed out loud. Matt and Tint even made little laughs after hearing Sunny's joke.
But despite Sunny's joke was really laughable, Goliath didn't respond or react. "What!? Not even a giggle?" Sunny said in surprise. But she wasn't giving up yet. "Alright, I've got another one that's really going to make you laugh." She took a deep breath, and then she speaks again. "If you have eight apples in one hand, and seven apples on the other hand, what would you have?" Goliath didn't respond, but the Pretty Cure team waited for the anticipation. "You have big hands! Get it?" The Pretty Cure team laughed out loud, even Moonlight, Aqua, and Beauty giggled of hearing Sunny's joke. Matt and Tint laughed along too.
But still, Goliath didn't react or moved. He stood still like a stiff statue. Sunny looked, and she became irked. "Okay then, I've got plenty of jokes for you to hear." Sunny said in little anger, "So listen closely, and I want to see you laugh." And Sunny kept on and on with her jokes just to make Goliath laugh. But after about twenty jokes she spoke, not one of them made Goliath laugh. All she did was got the Pretty Cure team laughing out of control. Sunny breathed very hard knowing that she's at her limit. "That's it everyone. Shows over, I ran out of jokes." Goliath remained still after Sunny's stand-up performance.
"Ooh, ooh, ooh, whew…" Matt said as he catches his breath after laughing so hard. "That was really good. I almost died laughing, no pun intended." Matt then takes a big breath, and then he speaks. "But after all those jokes she said, Goliath couldn't react to at least one joke."
"A-Actually…(Giggle)" Halt said as he laughed a little after hearing Sunny's jokes. "Goliath really did like those silly jokes. I can still sense that." Halt then clears his throat and remains calm, "But even after all those hilarious jokes she spoke, it's still not enough."
"Are you serious?" Berry said in exasperation.
"How do you know how Goliath feels?" Muse said with a sturdy firm look on her face.
"I've been with Goliath for a long time." Halt replied calmly. "That you can vouch."
"Yeesh! Will this huge stone pillar ever move!?" Sunny shouted in grief.
"Don't give up Pretty Cures!" Ace shouted. "We can still do this. Let's giving everything we've got to move Goliath." Everyone else nodded in agreement.
Time flew by as every Pretty Cure did their best to move Goliath for a slight moment. Peace made her teary-eyed expression just to beg Goliath to move. Marine regretfully did some insults to try to make Goliath mad. Rhythm somehow made cupcakes out of the blue and tries to tempt Goliath to move in order to pick-up one of her cupcakes. Lovely sweet-talked Goliath to make him move. Two Pretty Cures try to trick Goliath that there was a creepy creature on his foot to make him scared. Even the fairies did some stunts and tricks to make Goliath react. But no matter what attempts the Pretty Cure team thought and threw at Goliath, the whole time he remained still. Goliath kept his unmovable position as the Pretty Cure team became exhausted.
"It's impossible…!" Sword shouted as she felt so tired.
"No wonder Goliath is called the 'unmovable' gatekeeper." Beauty said as she catches her breath.
"What do we do?" Passion said in concern.
"Well girls," Halt speaks up, "It looks like you are at your wit's end. I won't be displeased if you give up, but it's wise for you to know your condition you're in. So, shall we call it a day?"
"Never!" Heart shouted. Halt flinched a little from Heart. "If we give up, everyone, our world, Spectrum Land, and the whole galaxy, will perish without the color that gives life energy. Everyone will die. We can't just give up, everyone is depending on us. It might be struggling at first, but I'm sure we'll find a way. Please, give us one more chance."
The other Pretty Cures looked concern and calmly urged Halt to let the team keep going and try to pass Goliath's test. Halt can see and sense in the hearts of the Pretty Cures that they are really determined to fulfill and save the galaxy's colors. Understanding how the Pretty Cures feel, Halt decided to let the team continue the test.
"Thanks Halt." Melody said happily, "Thanks for giving us another chance."
"But still," Sunshine speaks in concern, "how can we make him move?"
"Yeah, we gave everything we got." Egret said. "There's just no way."
"Then…, are we missing something?" Luminous asked.
"Like what Luminous?" Black asked in concern, "We did everything that came into our minds. What else can we do that we didn't do yet?"
The Pretty Cure team struggles to find the solid answer to move Goliath.
"Moonlight, you got anything?" Blossom asked.
"Sorry, my mind's not picking up anything." Moonlight worried.
"Anything Diamond?" Rosetta asked.
"Nope…" Diamond replied in concern as she shakes her head.
It seemed the Pretty Cure team really hit a dead end, and the fate of the galaxy is about to lose hope. But while the Pretty Cures are completely worried what to do, Matt decided to put on his thinking cap and did some critical thinking.
"That golem Goliath is really unmovable alright…" Matt thought, "We've done everything we know that's possible to make Goliath move, but they all end up zero results. What is it that maybe…just maybe…haven't we done yet? Something that we can do, but it didn't come to our minds right off the bat. Think Matt…think…" At that moment, Matt closed his eyes and tries to think deeply of all things he could remember from him and the Pretty Cures' adventure so far. His memories appeared in his mind.
King Tyran: Only those who are wise and strong enough can get past the gatekeeper with ease.
Mayor Gravel: It is said that gatekeeper is really unmovable.
"They did say that." Matt thought. "But…is it really 'unmovable?' Because from what I remembered…"
Dino: There is just only one thing it likes that will make the unmovable gatekeeper move.
"Dino said that, but what is that 'thing' Goliath liked? Maybe the villagers might know the answer. If I can just remember what they said, I just might find the solid answer to solve our problem. Think Matt…think…" Matt kept thinking deeply as more memories came into his head.
Mayor Gravel: We Sculptville people are born to work hard every day.
Mayor Gravel: A lot of people come here to this fountain for water to drink and stay hydrated.
Tino: A lot of people at home own a dinosaur pet.
Dino: All of the Dinosaur eggs come from the big volcano.
Dino: Yeah, it's just that we Sculptville people really like to sing songs.
Suddenly, Matt flinched in surprise when he remembered that memory. He begins to revisualize the last memory he thought.
Megumi: Oh, that was Yuko. And she also made that song.
Tino: Really? Well, I have to say, I really like your song Yuko.
Yuko: Gee, uh…, thanks.
Tino: Oh, we didn't mean to shy you.
Dino: Yeah, it's just that we Sculptville people really like to sing songs.
That last part in his memory ticked Matt Oda as he replays that one segment again in his mind.
Yeah, it's just that we Sculptville people really like to sing songs.
We Sculptville people really like to sing songs.
Really like to sing songs.
Sing songs…sing songs…sing songs…sing songs…
"HOT DOG! THAT'S IT!" Matt shouted in great realization.
The Pretty Cures and the fairies, including Tint, jolted in surprised after they all heard Matt's shout. The all turned to him.
"Whoa Matt, you scared us." White said in little shock.
"Sorry about that," Matt apologized, "but I have finally figured out the answer."
"Really Matt!?" Rouge said in shock.
"Please Matt, tell us." Marine begged.
Matt puts his right hand on his chin. "I know just the exact person to move Goliath." Matt said to the team.
"Who?" Peach asked.
Matt then pointed at the Pretty Cure he knows who's going to move Goliath, and it is…"You, Honey."
Cure Honey blinked in surprised, and the other Cures blinked in surprise too.
"Honey?" Princess said in little astonish.
"Uh, me?" Honey said as she pointed herself asking Matt that she's the one. Matt nodded in response to Honey's question. "But what can I do?"
Matt then became firm and explains to Honey. "Honey, remember that song you sang back at that gorge?"
"My song?"
"Y'know, the one that we were complaining about the humidity and you sang to keep us happy."
"Oh! You mean my rice song. But why?"
Matt crosses his arms and answers. "Sing that song." Honey blinked again. "Sing it to Goliath. That song will make Goliath move. I swear to you."
"Wait…," Blossom interrupted, "You think singing a song to Goliath is the answer, Matthew?"
"Trust me Pretty Cures, I know what I'm doing. I can guarantee you that Honey's song will indeed make Goliath move."
The rest of the Pretty Cure team looked at each other in concern not sure of themselves that singing will get Goliath to move. Marine speaks up to Matt, "Are you sure that—"
"Trust me…" Matt kept his firm and honest face towards the team. The Pretty Cures stare at Matt's face, and after a few seconds passed, they can sense that Matt knows the truth.
"Okay Matt," Fortune said to Matt, "If you say so…"
Matt turns to Honey with his firm face on him. Honey noticed and sees Matt. "Okay Honey," Matt speaks, "Go for it."
"Alright Matt." Honey replied calmly. Honey then pulled out her Honey Baton and wields as if she's holding a microphone. She walks up and gets in front of Goliath in a position to see his face. She looks at Goliath's aggressive face not knowing if he'll like Honey's song. Honey looks back at the team with their concern looks on their faces. But Matt kept his firm face as he gave Honey a thumb's up to her. "Okay, here I go." Honey took a deep breath as the music to her song began to play. She faces towards Goliath, and then she sings.
"'Let's eat' and 'That was delicious'
Those watchwords are full of smiles
A happy meal makes today happy too.
I want to eat rice with an egg on top
Delicious homemade food is also special
Even if there aren't side dishes, that's still OK
On the side of the smile, there is always warm rice."
Every Pretty Cure listened to Honey's song and watched Goliath see if he reacts to the song. So far nothing is happening, and some of the Pretty Cures sulk in failure.
"Matthew…, it's not working." March said in sorrow.
Matt kept his firm face and looking at Goliath. But then…, "Wait! Look!" Matt shouted and pointed to Goliath. Everyone heard Matt and looked to where he pointed. Then in great surprise, they witnessed what they saw. Goliath's right index finger starts to move to the beat of Honey's song. When Honey saw Goliath's finger move, she smiled with incredible joy and continued her song.
"A dream is a large serving that is heaping up
If we all eat together, we'll be full of energy
Rice is the energy of love
Ah-rice is delicious… Ah-rice is delicious"
It was then after Honey sang more of her song, Goliath started to sway his head side to side following the beat of Honey's song. It was that moment the Pretty Cures started to smile that they finally moved the giant golem.
"It's working!" Lemonade shouted happily, "It's really working!"
"Alright, way to go Honey!" Princess cheered.
Honey felt so happy for her song to reach Goliath that her aura power from her song spreads out to everyone around her. She kept singing gracefully of her song.
"'Another bowl please', 'enjoy'
The sound of the heart will unwind
Happy rice is invincible!"
Honey's song is so powerful and warm that her magical aura has reached out to all the citizens in Sculptville. The villagers kept repairing their homes until they felt the warm aura that got them to a complete stop. But after feeling the aura, the villagers can also hear Honey's song from afar.
"What the…? What's that?" Dino wondered.
"Is that a song?" Tino questioned.
But after hearing Honey's song for a few seconds, the villagers were moved and started to feel the beat of the music.
"This song…" Mayor Gravel said, "…it's…wonderful…"
"What a warm song." Maya said as she felt so moved by the song.
It is then the whole town started to repair their home by following the beat of the music. They continued to work as they listened to Honey's song.
"If you write about sweating of exercise
Hungry hungry melody grovel
That is the best delicious timing
The journey of rice is more important than the cute child"
As Honey kept singing, Cures Lovely, Princess, and Fortune appeared next to Honey as the four sing together in harmony.
"Passion and courage of the heart
Possible recipes that can satiety satisfaction are absolutely wonderful
Rice is the gift of love
Ah-Thank you for the rice… Ah-Thank you for the rice"
Goliath then smiled as he claps and waves his body side to side in the beat of the song. Halt was also enjoying Honey's song as he sways his head to the beat of the song. Everyone enjoyed Honey's song that they sang the final verse, except Goliath.
"A dream is a large serving that is heaping up
If we all eat together we'll be full of energy
Rice is the energy of love
Ha-Rice is wonderful"
Honey sang the last lyrics of her song. "Ha-Rice is won…der…ful…"
After Honey finished her song, everyone, the Pretty Cure team, Tint, Halt, Goliath, and the villagers from afar clapped and applauded for Honey.
"Bravo! Bravo!" Sword applauded.
"Fantastic-O!" Tarte shouted happily.
"Encore! Encore! Encore!" The Suite Pretty Cure and Hummy cheered.
"Woo-Hoo! Bravo!" Tint cheered.
Honey smiled as she gracefully takes a bow to everyone. She is so happy to hear all her friends and the people smiling and clapping for her. Her unique song reached everyone's hearts.
Halt then comes forth to Honey. "Miss Honey, that was one of the best and memorable songs I have ever heard in my life." Halt said with a smile. He then turns to Goliath. "And I think Goliath is really pleased with your performance."
The Pretty Cure team looked up to see Goliath smiling so happily and still applauding for Honey's song. Then Goliath stopped clapping, and he gently moves to the side unblocking the path. Goliath presents his hands aiming toward the path telling the team to proceed.
"And the way I see Goliath, you Pretty Cures passed Goliath's test. Well done." The Pretty Cure team jumped for a victory that they finally moved Goliath, and they can enter the volcano. "Your determination and high spirits have really put you heroines to overcome many challenges in your path. You've shown me and Goliath that you are the true Pretty Cures who can save Spectrum Land." Halt turns to Matt, "But I must say, your friendly man is very wise to find the answer to Goliath's test. You're very lucky to have him on your team."
"We sure do, ain't that right Matt?" Lovely asked as she puts her arm around Matt.
"I don't know…" Matt said in little shyness, "but I was really glad that I could help."
The Pretty Cures, their fairies, and Tint smiled at Matt Oda.
Halt continues to speak. "Well go ahead young ladies. The Red Wonder Color waits inside the volcano. Be warned though, a bigger challenge awaits you inside. So be prepared."
"Don't worry!" Dream shouted with glee, "We're Pretty Cure! We're an unbeatable team. No challenge can stop us."
"Uh…, don't get too confident Dream." Rouge said in concern.
"And promise me that the answer to Goliath's test will also remain a secret." Halt asked.
"Your secrets are safe with us." Moonlight replied with a smile.
The Pretty Cure team continued their mission as they passed Halt and Goliath, and they walked up the path leading inside the huge volcano.
After a few minutes of climbing up on the path, one of the Pretty Cures speaks to Matt.
"Matthew, I must ask…" Diamond asked him and got his attention.
"What is it Diamond?" Matt replied.
"How did you know?" Matt blinked at Diamond's question. "How did you know that the giant golem Goliath likes songs?"
"Yeah, I was wondering about that." Muse followed up. "How did you managed to figure that out?"
Matt stopped walking and turns towards the Pretty Cure. He speaks with his arms crossed. "As I like to say: a little critical thinking comes a long way." Matt said with confidence. "It was struggling to figure out how to get Goliath moving, which is why I tried to think back. Thinking back to the villagers of Sculptville on what they said about Goliath. I thought if I remembered what the villagers said, I might clue in on the answer of how to get Goliath moving. It was then during my critical thinking, I remembered and realized on one dinosaur he said."
"Who, and what is it?" Bloom asked.
"Dino, Tino's pet dinosaur. Dino said that he and the people of Sculptville like to sing songs. When I clued in on that, I figured that Halt and Goliath must also be residents of Sculptville, but they also like to hear and sing songs. When I figured that puzzle out, I knew that Honey's song was the key to making Goliath not in the slightest, but in the grooviest mood to make him motional. And I was right."
"Matthew Oda-san! You're a genius!" Blossom said with a big smile.
"That was really smart of you Matt-san." Aqua said with delight.
"No wonder you're good at mysteries and puzzles." Fortune said with a grin on her face.
Matt smiled shyly when all the Pretty Cures praised him. Honey then appeared next to Matt and puts her hand on Matt's shoulder. Matt noticed Honey's presence.
"Matthew-san…, whatever we do without you…?" Honey said calmly with a grin on her face. It was then at that moment…
Honey kissed Matt's right cheek. Matt flinched.
The other Pretty Cures and the fairies witnessed and became astonished.
"H-H-Honey…" Lovely said in surprise.
"Did she…Did she-desu wa…" Ribbon said in shock.
Honey then winked at Matt. Matt felt a little embarrassed after that unexpected moment. "Okay…, enough with the surprising looks, and let's move on…" Matt said shyly as he rubs his cheek that got kissed.
Author's Notes
Were you surprised of this chapter's ending? Just asking ;)