"Whoa!" Ryuji exclaimed, his jaw hanging open as he gazed around with his wide eyes. "Check this place ou-ut!"
"It's huge!" Anne remarked. "Bigger than any of the Palaces we've been to!"
"To think we, the Phantom Thieves of Hearts," Yusuke murmured, "are here…"
"We'd sure all prove ourselves worthy with all the fighting we'd be doing with against the enemies we'd face here!" Morgana remarked. "It's just too bad only one of us can do that…"
All eyes turned to Joker, who was silently observing the arena they were stood in. He had been the only one of the Phantom Thieves to take part in these events that were about to unfold. The others were to simply sit on the sidelines to cheer their leader on in the battles he was to fight in.
Joker still couldn't believe he'd been invited to join Smash. It was surreal to think he was to take part in this Tournament where he'd be facing against iconic characters. He was still humbled to think he'd proven himself worthy enough to join this legendary game. He hoped to prove himself up there with Mario, Link, Pikachu, Kirby, Sonic, Fox McCloud, Solid Snake and all the other players he'd be doing battle with.
"Well, good luck, man!" Ryuji said encouragingly.
"We'll be rooting for you!" Anne smiled brightly.
"We know you'll prove yourself a worthy addition player here!" Mokoto said.
"Show these Smash guys what the Phantom Thieves are made of!" Futaba added.
"Thanks, guys!"
Ryuji bowed to his allies, grateful for their support towards him. He knew he wouldn't be where he was without any of them. He wouldn't have been able to dive into Palaces to change people's hearts if he didn't have his team fighting at his side. There was no way he could face his opponents in Smash without his friends cheering him on.
The rest of the teenagers turned and prepared to take their seats, ready to watch their leader's first battle that was to unfold in an hour's time. Joker was just heading off to get ready to prepare for his big debut - when he felt something jump into the backpack on his back.
"Hey, Joker, if you find yourself struggling against these Smash morons, I'll be there to help you take them on!" Morgana cackled. "Mrawhahaha! It's almost scary how good I am!"
"So you're sneaking into my battles to lend a paw if I need it?" Joker raised an eyebrow, smiling. "I appreciate that! Thanks, cat!"
"Hey!" Morgana burst out, triggered as always over what Joker had called him. "I am not a cat!"
THE END