That evening, Junior waited on the beach for the twins to return from their patrol. When they arrived, he told them about his intention to leave. Having spent most of his time patrolling, Leo was somewhat surprised by this. Mora, on the other hand, wasn't surprised in the least.

"I could tell you were getting better," she said. "I honestly thought you would've left sooner."

"I wasn't so sure," Junior replied. "Guess I just needed to get up and do something to find out."

"And what did you do to prove it?"

"I won a sparring match with the others. Anguirus went easy on me, but Gojira... not so much."

"Yes, he always took sparring very seriously. It's his way of teaching others to do their best."

"It was more than that. He was worried. REALLY worried."

"About Ghidorah?"

"Yeah. He's afraid we won't be able to beat him and wanted to make sure I was up to it. He even said he wouldn't let me leave if I couldn't prove that I was."

"Hm, I'm not surprised. He took our losses harder than anyone after the first battle with Ghidorah. He spent months in isolation, grieving. He cared deeply about all our kind, but Gigamoth... She was everything to him."

"So he really did love her."

"Indeed. After Ghidorah killed her, Gojira couldn't stand the thought of leaving her body where it fell, surrounded by so many of her fallen children, so he set it adrift, hoping that the sea would find a peaceful place for her to rest for all eternity. The strong currents around Storm Island sent her many miles away, not stopping until she was washed ashore on this very beach. That is why this island is sacred, Junior. This was Gigamoth's final resting place. After her body was discovered, our ancestors made this their home."

"Why?"

"To remember her. To remind themselves and future generations why they fought. To make sure they knew the cost of victory."

"It must be hard for Gojira to even be here, then."

"It is. He has not said so, but we can tell. We can sense it. Sadness and grief surround him like a fog."

"All the more reason to leave, then."

"Indeed. You are a good friend, Junior. It won't be easy seeing you go."

"It won't be easy to leave. The guys and I are probably gonna be up all night talking. You can join in if you want."

"I'd be more than happy to."

"What about you, Leo?"

"Oh, no. No, I think I'm just going to get an early sleep tonight. I like to begin my patrols early."

"But that's what you do every night! Come on, Leo. I know you're really dedicated to your duty and all, but you've gotta loosen up every once in a while. Besides, since I met you, you've barely said five words to anyone besides your sister. You don't have to say anything to anyone if you don't want to, but it would still mean a lot if you just came and listened to what everyone else said. And apart from that, it'd be kinda rude if you didn't say 'goodbye' before you go on patrol."

After a brief pause, Leo sighed and said: "All right, then. If it means that much to you, I'll go. We don't want to seem rude, now do we?" Upon saying this, Leo turned around and took off toward the cave he and his sister shared.

"That's the spirit!" Junior called after him. Mora turned to follow, but Junior stopped her.

"What is it?" she asked.

"There's one more thing I wanted to talk to you about. Leo probably should've stayed for this."

"What?"

"One of the main things Gojira was worried about was our numbers. As strong as we all are, he's afraid we won't be enough to stop Ghidorah."

"I often wonder about that myself. What of it?"

"I think I know someone who can help us."

That night, the five of them all sat around the large bowl-shaped clearing Junior and Anguirus often slept in. Things were going well. Everyone was enjoying themselves. Not surprisingly, Leo didn't say much, but it was obvious he listened intently to every word that was said. He could even be seen laughing at some of the more humorous stories Junior and Anguirus told.

Such was the case when Anguirus told him and Mora about how Junior defeated him in their recent sparring match. As the story drew to a close, Gojira, who was standing next to Junior, turned to the latter and said: "I... would like to apologize for my behavior earlier. I shouldn't have been so hard on you."

"Ah, don't worry about it," Junior replied. "I know you meant well. Besides, I should probably be used to that kind of thing by now."

"What do you mean?"

"Well, let's just say that my father wasn't exactly the nicest teacher."

"Do tell."

"Okay, so, when I first found out I could use my fire-breath, my-"

"Oh, here we go," Anguirus said, having finished his story. Looking back at the twins, he said: "Be ready, kids. If you thought that last one was good, you haven't heard anything yet. Sorry for interrupting, Junior. Go ahead."

"All right. So, when my father found out that I could use my fire-breath, he was adamant about showing me how to use it properly. He takes me down to this lake in the middle of our island, points out this big rock on the other side and tells me to blast it. Now, all I'd been able to do as of this point was fire a bunch of little fiery bubbles from my mouth." (That part earned a bout of quiet laughter from everyone listening except Gojira.) "I tried a few times, but it kept coming out as bubbles. Then Father stops me for a second and tells me to focus on my target. And that's exactly what I did. This time, it came out as a fiery blue ring. I will say, that actually did some damage, but it wasn't enough. I tried several more times, but it just wasn't happening. Now, at this point, Father is pretty frustrated, so he decides to take matters into his own hands."

"Oh, what did he do?" Gojira asked.

"He says 'Focus harder!' and stomps on my tail. Next thing I know, I'm firing a perfect fire-beam up into the sky while I'm crying out in pain. After a little more practice, I was able to use my fire-breath without much issue."

"Hm. I see."

At this point, Anguirus was laughing harder than Junior had seen him do in a while. Mora appeared to be wincing, the image of Godzilla stomping on Junior's tail vivid in her mind. As usual, Leo didn't seem to have much of a reaction, but Junior could've sworn he saw him cringe a little. Anguirus continued laughing for another minute or so, seemingly unable to stop until Mora screeched out, "What is wrong with you?"

"Oh, come on!" Anguirus replied, struggling to suppress his laughter. "That was funny and you know it!"

"How?"

"Obviously, you weren't picturing the look on Junior's face when it happened. I can see it very clearly in my head right now, and you know what? It was priceless!"

Upon saying this, Anguirus broke into another fit of laughter. One that was cut short by Gojira calling out his name in an almost angry tone.

"All right, all right," the latter said. "I'm done."

"Thank you. Now, where were we, Junior?"

"Actually, I was about finished. That was the only good story I could think of about Father's teaching methods. Beyond that, the worst thing he did was scare me with a loud roar or smack me in the head. I never forgot it, though."

"I'm not surprised. It is often our worst childhood memories that stick with us the longest."

"So true," Anguirus said. "But, hey, it could've been a lot worse."

"Oh, I have worse," Junior replied. "I didn't tell you what happened before then, did I? About me being kidnapped?"

"Kidnapped? No, I don't think I've heard this one."

And so, Junior told them the tale of his encounter with Spacegodzilla, which occurred just over two days before the events of his previous story. Anguirus and the twins seemed quite concerned about Spacegodzilla himself and the threat he posed, and were all relieved when Junior told them he was dead. Gojira, however, seemed deep in thought, as if he was reminded of something and was desperately trying to remember what it was. When Junior finished, he added that the mere memory of Spacegodzilla still gave him chills and that he often wondered why Spacegodzilla referred to him as "brother" when they spoke.

"I know why," Gojira said.

"You do?"

"Yes. The computer in my head retains a good bit of information on that beast. The humans are unsure how, but they believe that he was what they call a clone; a replica of a living creature made with that creature's own blood."

"And what does that mean?"

"It means that your father's blood ran through Spacegodzilla's veins. He was Godzilla's true son. He... really was your brother."

"Whoa," Junior said, taken aback. "I... I can't believe it. Did... Do you... Do you think Father knew?"

"I doubt it. It seems Spacegodzilla's creation was purely by accident. Somehow, some of your father's blood was carried into space, where it was altered to make the being you knew. Even if your father did know, though, it wouldn't have made any difference. Spacegodzilla wanted nothing less than Godzilla's death and total dominion over the Earth. It... is for the best that he is dead."

"I know. It's just... really hard to process."

"I understand."

"Anything we can do to help, Junior?" Anguirus asked.

"No, no. I'll be fine, Anguirus. Don't worry."

"You sure?"

"Yeah."

"All right. But, just remember, we're all here for you."

"Indeed, we are," Leo said, surprising everyone else. Mora also agreed, as did Gojira, with a friendly hand on Junior's shoulder.

"Thanks, guys," Junior said.

"Anytime," the others replied in unison.

They continued talking for hours afterwards. It didn't take long for Junior to cheer up. He was still conflicted about the night's revelation, but he pushed that aside so that he could enjoy this time he spent with his friends. Thankfully, the conversation took a much lighter tone afterwards and they all had a great time.

At first light, however, this ended. When the realization that their time together was over hit, the five of them all sat in silence for a while, allowing this information to sink in. As they did so, another realization hit them: this could very well be the only time they would ever hang out like this. It was a somber moment.

And when that moment ended, they reluctantly said their farewells. The twins waited for the others to depart before going on their patrol and spent some time watching them swim (or, in Gojira's case, fly) away, waiting until they were gone from their sight. For a time, Junior and the others remained silent, but, eventually, they managed to find their voices.

When the great storm that surrounded Skull Island came into view, Junior asked: "So, Gojira, has this storm always been there?"

"I... am not sure." Gojira replied. "I can't remember a time when it wasn't."

"Me neither," Anguirus said.

"But, why hasn't it moved or died down?" Junior asked.

"You know, kid, in my experience, there's some things in life you shouldn't question." Anguirus answered. "No matter how strange they are."

"Anguirus is right, Junior. But I do have my theories."

"Let's hear 'em."

"Axor may have something to do with it. His powers are... unique, to say the least. He can generate massive gusts of wind and fire lightning from his mouth. Perhaps he uses these abilities to maintain the storm. It would explain why the storm is so much stronger around Storm Island."

"And your other theories?"

"I only have one: that it could be the Earth's way of protecting itself, to ensure that the mana is safe."

"Either one would make a lot of sense."

"Which is why it is so hard to deduce which one is right."

They continued on like this until, a few hours later, they finally reached the island. As Junior and Anguirus came to shore, Gojira landed next to them.

"I kinda hoped I wouldn't have to come back here." Junior said.

"Aw, come on, kid, it wasn't that bad." Anguirus replied.

"I guess you forgot what Kong did."

"He didn't mean any harm."

"He literally tried to feed me to a giant squid."

"Ah, he was just testing your mettle. He knew you'd be fine. I do admit that that was a little extreme, though."

"A little?! I can still feel where that thing was chewing on me!"

"And I can still feel where you chewed on my leg, but you don't see me complaining about it."

"That is not the same and you know it!"

"Enough!" Gojira roared. "Junior is right, Anguirus. Kong went too far. I shall speak to him about it after you leave."

"Fine."

"Let's keep moving. We'll reach the entrance to the Hollow in a few hours."

"Gojira, we've been swimming for days. We should rest for a little while. You can't tell me you aren't tired."

"Actually, I can. This body does not work the same as yours. I don't get tired. If I did, that would mean that my body's power source was failing. If that happens, I cease to function."

"You know, I can't believe I've never asked this, but, how exactly does your body keep itself going? You don't eat."

"I've been wondering about that, too, actually." Junior added.

"This body draws energy from the rays of the sun," Gojira answered. "Under direct sunlight, I can keep myself going indefinitely. In a place like this, though, it'll be harder to do so. I can go two weeks without sunlight, however, and the clouds don't cover this island all the time, so it shouldn't be much of a problem. Even if it does become an issue, I can always fly out from under the storm to recharge before my energy levels get too low."

"Well, that's a relief."

"I feel like I should apologize. The way this body works often makes me forget about how everyone else's do. I hate not being able to feel anything. I can't smell, I can't taste, I can't even feel pain. I have made my peace with the humans for trapping me in this form, but that is something that still angers me."

"We both understand," Anguirus said. "I can't imagine how hard it's been for you. I hate the humans for putting you through this hell, but I'm also grateful for what they did. It gave us a chance to reconnect. It gave Junior here a new friend and a role model to look up to and give him guidance. And our chances of beating Ghidorah are much higher now that you're here to help. You are the one who drove him back before, after all."

"You forget, I had help. Nonetheless, your words are of great comfort. I am glad they brought me back. Had they not, I would never have had the pleasure of meeting the twins. I never would've gotten the chance to spar with you again, old friend. And I would never have met you, Junior. It has reassured me that this world will remain in good hands after my time has truly ended."

"What do you mean?" Junior asked.

Gojira hesitated. He lowered his head and turned away, seemingly deep in thought, trying to come to some sort of decision. Turning back around, he answered: "It is like I said, if I were to die again, I am highly confident that you will continue to defend the Earth."

"Why do I get the feeling that there's more to it than that?"

"Perhaps there is, but now is not the time to explain. Anguirus is right. You two should rest for a while. I shall watch for any predators lurking in the trees."

"All right, then."

As Gojira walked away, Junior turned to Anguirus and quietly asked: "What'd he mean by 'predators?'"

"Yeah, I've been meaning to talk to you about that," Anguirus replied. "I may not have been entirely forthcoming before when I told you about the Hollow."

"What are you talking about?"

"Well, I said before that it's a fairly safe, peaceful place, right?"

"Yeah."

"And I also said that the only things you had to worry about down there are whatever lives in the water and maybe Gabara, right?"

"Yeah. Wait, there's more, isn't there?"

"Oh, yeah."

"And you didn't think to tell me sooner?"

"Actually, I did, but there was never a good time. Besides, we aren't even there yet, so this still counts as an early warning."

"Yeah, I guess you're right. So, what else is there?"

"Well, there's the Gorosaurs. Vicious things. Fast, agile, and deadly. A lone Gorosaur would never go after something as big as you, but a group? Oh, you'd have your hands full. Not many kaiju can fight a pack of them off alone. Kong's parents died that way."

"Whoa."

"Yeah. That's what Gojira was talking about. A long time ago, a group of them managed to make their way here. Now, their numbers have increased a pretty good bit and they prowl the forest in search of their next meal. That's why Kong guards the entrance to the Hollow, Junior. To prevent more from coming and to keep what's left of his family safe."

"I thought he did it to keep hostile kaiju from going into the Hollow."

"Yeah, that too, but protecting his family is his main goal. It's the reason he started guarding it to begin with."

"And what about the Gorosaurs that are already here?"

"Actually, they're afraid of Kong's kind. They won't go anywhere near 'em."

"Why?"

"Because the Gorosaurs know that if they tried to attack them, they'd be in for one hell of a fight. The last time they attacked in full force, they were almost wiped out! Kong knew that they were no longer a threat, so he decided to let the last few live. Their cousins down below don't share this fear, though, so Kong doesn't show them the same mercy."

"Oh, wow."

"Yeah, Kong's people are pretty badass. If they were better swimmers, I'd see if he could help us fight Ghidorah."

"On that note, how much do you think Gojira will tell him about that?"

"Well, Kong's been a trusted confidante for Gojira and the Mothra for generations, so I'd have to say he'll probably tell him everything."

"Okay. Well, at least someone doesn't have to keep this secret on total lockdown."

"I understand, Junior. I hate the idea of having to look people in the eye, knowing I have something that important to say, and not being able to. But, we have to try, at least until it's all over."

"Can't we tell Caesar, at least?"

"I spoke to the others about that a couple days before we left. Gojira's completely against it, Mora said that if I think he's trustworthy enough, it'd be okay, and Leo was sort of in-between."

"Do you think we can trust him, though?"

"Maybe. I never got to know him as well as I would've liked, but he always seemed like a good, decent fellow. Very dedicated, too. Sort of like Gojira, but not quite as serious."

"Sounds like a fun guy."

"You'll find out for yourself soon enough, kid." Yawning, Anguirus laid down in the sand after saying this and dozed off. Junior followed suit soon after.

They rested for a few hours until Gojira woke them and urged them to continue their journey. Following the same path as last time, they made their way to the Hollow's entrance. After several more hours of walking, the three stopped when they heard the sound of other kaiju moving through the forest. They stood back to back, waiting, wondering if it was friend or foe that approached. The forest grew silent. All they could see was fog and trees. Then Junior noticed something strange.

"Anguirus," he started, "you smell that?"

"Yep."

"It's disgusting. What is it?"

"Death. Decay. Rotting flesh."

"What does that mean?"

"Gorosaurs", Gojira answered. "They're stalking us."

"What do we do?"

"Wait until they make their presence known, then I'll take care of the rest."

"You're gonna fight them alone?"

"I do not intend to fight them at all, Junior. Just wait. And watch."

Several minutes passed, and nothing happened. They neither saw nor heard the predators. With each passing minute, they became more anxious, wondering when the Gorosaurs would appear, and where. Suddenly, a low growl rumbled through the forest. Seconds later, Junior saw a silhouette in the fog.

"I see one!" he quietly exclaimed.

"They're coming in closer", Gojira said. "That means they'll be making their move soon. Be ready."

As he said this, more and more growls began to reverberate through the trees. It was a scare tactic, and while Gojira and Anguirus remained unfazed, Junior was beginning to get a little nervous. The eerie chorus continued on for several more minutes, until a loud roar sounded, silencing the pack. Another few minutes of silence passed, only be brought to a sudden end when a lone Gorosaur rushed out of the fog, roaring, heading straight for Junior. Just before it could reach him, however, Gojira moved between them, punching the beast in the face so hard, it fell to the ground. Two more appeared from the gloom, hissing loudly. Gojira held his ground, unmoving and silent.

The first Gorosaur, obviously dizzy from the blow it received, got back to its feet and bellowed a defiant challenge at Gojira, who retaliated with a roar of his own, much louder and more intimidating. A look of fear and surprise appeared on the Gorosaur's face just before it turned and ran off, followed by its companions. After making sure that they had truly retreated, Gojira turned back to his friends, who waited for him. Anguirus beamed with pride and satisfaction, while Junior was lost in amazement.

"Ha ha ha! The king returns!" Anguirus exclaimed as Gojira strode by, silently beckoning them to continue. "You haven't lost your touch, big guy."

"I appreciate the compliment, Anguirus, but... please don't call me that again. I lost my title a long time ago."

"Aw, fine. But you're still... that guy to me!"

"That was amazing..." Junior quietly said. "How'd you do that, Gojira?"

"A show of strength can ward off many an opponent, Junior. To fight should be your last resort. Let that be a lesson to you."

"What's all this noise?" another kaiju's voice called out from above. It was a voice all three of them recognized. There was a loud rustling in the branches above, growing louder still as the kaiju approached. Suddenly, Kong dropped down from the canopy, landing with a loud thud. Junior fought back the urge to growl at the sight of him.

"Anguirus, Godzilla Junior, it is good to see you again", he said. "What happened here, and who's your shiny friend?"

"Actually, Kong, you should know him a lot better than us", Anguirus said, barely containing his glee at the thought of the reunion.

"What do you mean?" Kong asked before turning to face the metallic kaiju in question. "Who are you?"

"Allow me to show you", Gojira replied before his metallic body shut down and his astral form materialized next to it. "It has been a long time, little brother."

This caused Kong to stumble back in a combination of fear and shock. "Gojira?! But... but that is impossible! You're..."

"Dead? Yes... and no. I will explain everything later. But, for now, I would like to focus on getting these two to the Hollow's entrance before the Gorosaurs decide to mount another assault."

"Ah... Al-al-alright, then."

Gojira's astral form disappeared, and Kiryu reactivated. "Let's go", he said as he continued onward. With a little help from Anguirus, Kong slowly got to his feet. "I know", the former said. "It's hard to take in."

"Is it really him?" Kong asked.

"Yep, the king is back. But, don't call him that, though. He doesn't like it."

"I can imagine."

Realizing that they'd fallen behind, the two of them scrambled to catch up with Junior and Gojira, who had already disappeared into the fog. Listening for the sound of their companions' footsteps, they followed. Before they caught up with them, though, Junior walked up to Gojira and asked: "'Little brother?'"

"Yes", Gojira answered. "You see, Kong and I grew up together. We both lost our parents at an early age, so when we happened upon each other while roaming around on our own, we quickly bonded over our shared tragedy. We remained together, working alongside one another to survive. Eventually, we came to consider each other family, hence the nickname. At the time, our peoples were at each other's throats, but when they saw how close we were, they began to realize that we all weren't so different. In time, the hatred between our races disappeared completely, replaced by an unrivaled sense of respect and friendship. You should consider this a lesson as well, Junior."

"Why?"

"I know you hate Kong for the way he treated you, and it is very understandable why, but you must remember that he, like you, is an intelligent being with emotions. You must learn to respect him. Imagine if you were in his place when you first met, still grieving over your oldest friend, only to discover a strange new kaiju that almost appeared to imitate him. Not only would it make you wary of the newcomer's intentions, but it would also offend you to your core. Would it not?"

"I guess so."

"Then you understand?"

"Yeah."

"Good. Now, as I understand it, Kong deeply regrets what he did to you and wants to make things right. At least, that is what Anguirus told me. But, if it is true, will you accept Kong's apology?"

"I... I-I... I guess."

"Good. I know it might be difficult, but, believe it or not, it will make you feel better. And, who knows? You two may just hit it off."

"We'll see."

"See what?" Anguirus interrupted, stopping Junior and Gojira in their tracks. "Sorry to interrupt, but, next time, could you please wait for your friends to catch up before you walk off? Honestly, you guys are faster than you think."

"Anguirus, stop trying to guilt-trip them", Kong said. "It's not funny."

"It would've been if you gave it time to work. I wasn't even halfway done yet."

"Aren't you a little old to be acting this way?"

"Ha! That's rich coming from you, Kong. Everyone knows that your kind's lifespan is much shorter than any of us scaly kaiju. Technically, you're the oldest out of all of us."

"I admit that I'm a little past my prime, but that doesn't mean that I'm not still as spry as I used to be. You should know, you've seen my prowess in combat."

"Yeah, gotta agree with you there. But, I can't help but mention that you got your ass kicked at the end."

"I... had it coming", Kong sighed, looking at Junior. Stepping toward him, Kong said: "Come with me, Godzilla Junior. I... wish to talk with you alone." Junior nodded, and the two began to walk off. Turning around, Kong told the others to go on ahead, that they'd catch up soon.

"Come on, Anguirus," Gojira said, "they've got some things to work out. There's an important matter I need to discuss with you, anyway."

"Okay", Anguirus replied, watching his friends disappear into the fog.

As Junior and Kong made their way through the forest, Junior couldn't help but be a little nervous, not knowing where he was going. Of course, he had to ask at some point, to which Kong replied, "Don't worry. We're still heading for the entrance to the Hollow. This is just a longer path I know. I thought it'd give us a chance to talk."

"Okay."

"Anguirus told me much about you, you know. He really cares for you."

"I feel the same way about him. He's the first... and the best friend I ever had."

"Yes, he told me you've had a hard life. Speaking of which, I would like to offer my condolences for your father."

"Thank you."

"I never met him, but, after meeting you, I seemed to remember seeing a line of spines almost exactly like yours moving across the water a few years ago. Perhaps I saw him. What exactly happened to him, if you don't mind my asking?"

"He was... ill. Really ill. That's all I can really say. I didn't see how he died."

"Anguirus said you were able to retain his memories, though, were you not?"

"I do have his memories, but... that's something I really don't want to remember. I'd literally have to watch him die through his eyes. I can't bring myself to do that."

"I understand. That would be excruciating. I know what it's like to watch your parents die, but couldn't imagine having to see it like that... Heh, look at us! This is the same way Gojira and I started off. I have a good feeling about this."

"Heh, it's funny, actually. Gojira just got through telling me how you two first met."

"Did he, now? Hm. He's usually so reserved about the past. He must see something really special in you."

"You really think so?"

"Trust me, it's the only explanation I can think of. Either that, or, in the short time you've known each other, you've become really close."

"Could be a bit of both."

"Yeah, that's true. I wonder, though... No, no, that can't be right."

"What?"

"Oh, nothing. Just a silly theory. Think nothing of it."

"Um... okay, I guess."

"Sorry. It's just, I'd rather not say in case it turns out to be true."

"Okay..."

There was a short lull in the conversation as they continued to move between the trees. After a few minutes, Kong sighed. Turning to face Junior, he said: "Look, I know you can't stand me. After what I did, I'd feel the same way. It's just..."

"You don't have to explain. Gojira already did. He told me to put myself in your position, see if I could understand."

"And do you?"

"I think so."

"Well, that's good enough, I suppose. There's more to it than just my motivations, though. I let my rage get the better of me, just as you did during our fight. When I told you to swim through the lake, I merely wanted to test your mettle, but, in the emotional state I was in, I didn't really care whether or not you came out alive. You see, when I first saw you, knowing that you were neither Gojira, nor one of his kin, I feared that you may have been some sort of ne'er-do-well hoping to conquer the Hollow by pretending to be one of them. I had to make sure whether I was right or not. That is why I kept goading you during our fight, to gauge your reaction. If you showed no hesitation or remorse in trying to kill me, then I would know that I was right.

And I almost believed I was, too. Then, when you had me beaten, ready to deliver the killing blow, and Anguirus stopped you, the look of horror in your eyes as you realized what you were doing told me I was wrong. Instantly, I regretted everything I'd done to you. I regretted it even more after Anguirus told me about you. Especially the part about you only being four years old. Not gonna lie, the fact that I got my ass kicked by a hatchling hurt my pride a bit. Guess I had it coming, though, huh? What I'm trying to say is... What I want you to... Look, I honestly don't care if you understand why I did what I did, and I don't care if you forgive me or not, but I just want you to know how truly sorry I am."

Junior didn't know what to say. He just stood there and looked into Kong's eyes. They were filled with emotion, almost as if they were welling up with tears. After a few seconds, the shame Kong felt forced him to turn his head away. Still following his eyes, Junior's gaze wandered until it settled on Kong's shoulder, which bore a nasty-looking scar from the atomic blast he took. All the fur in the affected area was singed off and the bare skin beneath was almost pure white, a rather startling contrast from the normal brown that surrounded it.

Now, it was Junior's turn to feel guilty. Averting his gaze, he turned his back to Kong and hung his head low. He paused, still unsure what to say or do. "I'm sorry, too", he started. "For hurting you. I... I..." The myriad of emotions Junior felt made it difficult to speak. He tried a few more times, then, after a brief pause, he sighed and turned around to face Kong, who had a borderline nervous look on his face. "I forgive you."

Kong sighed, seemingly relieved. "All right, then", he said. It was obvious he didn't know what else to say, so he did his best to prevent any awkwardness or embarrassment, simply saying: "We... should probably catch up with the others. They should be almost there by now."

"Good idea."

Within a few minutes, they reached the valley where the Hollow's entrance resided. As it turned out, Kong's "longer path" had led them through a thin band of trees that circled around the lake, ending very close to the Hollow's entrance. Anguirus and Gojira were indeed already there, having seemingly just arrived. Whatever it was they had to talk about, it certainly slowed them down a bit. Anguirus tried not to let Kong and Junior notice, though, saying: "Oh, there you are, slowpokes! We were beginning to worry about you. Gojira thought you might've gotten into another fight and killed each other."

"I did not", Gojira said, walking towards the late arrivals.

"You're no fun, anymore, you know that?"

"When was he ever?" Kong asked as Gojira approached, laughing. The latter stopped, looking between his companions, seemingly unsure of what to say. He then turned, looking into the dark cavern nearby, and lowered his head.

"I suppose this is where we part ways", he said, looking back at Junior and Anguirus. "I... I wish I could go with you, to see my home one more time."

"You should", Kong interrupted. "Your people need to see their king."

"No, Kong. Not like this. They'd never accept me. Besides, it is quite likely that they'll mistake Junior here for one of my kind. That alone should give them the hope they need."

"But, what if they ask about you?" Junior asked.

"Then you will tell them the truth: that I am dead. And, if possible, don't tell them that you aren't one of my kind. They need to know that they are well-protected, and they won't trust you if they learn the truth."

Junior hated the idea, but he had to agree with the reason behind it. "Okay", he said.

"Good. Anguirus, make sure you look out for this kid, huh?"

"Always", Anguirus replied. "Come on, Junior. Let's go."

As Anguirus began to walk into the dark hole before them, and Junior went to follow, the latter hesitated, looking back at Kong and Gojira.

"It's all right, Junior", Gojira said. "Go on."

Junior sighed and nodded, turning back to the cave entrance, where Anguirus was waiting for him. They both shared one last look at the friends they were leaving behind, and pressed on.

"Farewell, my friends!", Gojira called after them. "We will see you again in a few months!"

The sound of Gojira's call echoed through the dark passageway, continuing to do so for almost a minute due to the size of the cave. When it subsided, Junior turned around once more to look at the cave entrance, catching one last glimpse of daylight and contemplating on what it was he was doing. He was leaving behind everything he knew, everything he ever cared about. But it wouldn't be forever. And he had a good friend at his side to help him along the way. Sighing, he looked away and continued onward, toward a whole new world.