Zelkova48 - The inner machination of Syrus' mind is an enigma. Also, yes, Luke is the same Luke from Rematch redone to fit this narrative. I wanted to keep the 3 theme going, so now he's basically 3 squared.
Joey - I'm surprised there isn't a team death match mode. We can have sixteen or at least twelve players at once.
A/N: I had a lot of fun with this chapter, especially the bit at the end. So, just bear with it.
The sun beat down hard on the city of Splatsville. It was a never-ending battle to stay cool under the scorching sun. The Splatlands were a cesspit of dangerous wonders filled, but no Splatlandian was disgusted to call the wasteland home. While living conditions could be better for everyone, the City of Chaos was proud to call the sun-scorched desert home, and none was more proud than the eel deal of Deep Cut, Frye.
Scorch Gorge, the National Park of Splatsville, was the most popular Turf War stage. But, today, the battlefield was sanctioned for the main event, and many got themselves a front-row seat to see the festivities.
Frye stood on top of a high platform that allowed her to oversee the battlefield that would serve as her final destination. The field was enclosed inside a rocky canyon with tall rock formations creating walls and entryways around the battleground.
Soon, history would be made, and Frye couldn't think of a better place for Splatlandians to test their mettle. She felt more at home, having many fond memories with Shiver and Big Man here, including an incident with a giant birdcage that must never be discussed. Unlike in Alterna, she wasn't restricted with her movements. A straight brawl was never too much fun. The real joy came in picking the opponent apart, getting inside their head, and wasting them with their back against the wall.
The idea made the eel charmer giddy.
'C'mon, hurry up, Syrus. I can't wait anymore.'
The ebony idol of Deep Cut could hardly contain her excitement. She had been waiting for this day since she first announced the fight. She pushed herself to the limit, and her confidence showed in her powerful stance. She was positive she would come out victorious, but she also knew that it would be a tough fight.
'This is gonna be so much fun.'
A spawn point flew up, and Frye knew her opponent had finally arrived.
'Finally.'
Frye leaped off the high platform and met her opponent at the center of the gorge. She looked him up and down with an inquisitive stare.
"There you are. Seriously, I thought you were punctual like Shiver. Don't you know it's rude to keep a girl waiting?" she teased. "Nice muscles by the way."
Syrus lifted his shades and returned the idol's compliment with a warm smile. He wore a light gray sleeveless shirt, white arm sleeves, black pants, and matching combat boots. As usual, his trusty Tri-Stringer was secured to his back.
"Apologies, it's hard getting to your destination when you're on people's hit list," he replied. "I would've arrived sooner if the streets were kinder."
"Yet there's not a scratch on you," the idol pointed out.
Syrus shrugged. "I've gotten better at outmaneuvering my captors," he looked her up and down as well. "I didn't want them ruining our private time. You're looking hot yourself."
Frye giggled and slammed a fist into her palm. Her style of wear got a kick out of Syrus. Instead of her yellow veil and crop top, she wore a black gakuran jacket with flames along the rim and rolled-up sleeves with a high collar, baggy pants, and white bandages wrapped around her torso a la Shiver. She looked fierce, but her toughness was mitigated by the red rose tucked in her hair. It didn't bother Syrus. He thought she looked cool. However…
'Non sum cornea. (I am not horny.)' he chastised himself.
Ever since Zane commented on his lust, Syrus had been thrown off his game. His performance, while unnoticeable by the others, suffered slightly because of the distractions. He wanted to complete the fourth site and move on to the fifth, but his thoughts drifted to Frye more and more, and her current attire and flaunting did not help him in the slightest.
'Vide in oculis eius. Non ogle pectus eius. (Look into her eyes. Don't ogle her chest.)'
The way the bandages wrapped around Frye's figure was alluring, to say the least. Her strong physique was more accentuated, narrating how many hours Frye put into her rigorous activities. The dancing, fighting, and performances culminated into a body that was sure to turn heads when she stepped into view. While Syrus would be the first to evade hormonal guys' questions about their favorite body parts, he also reprimanded himself for staring where he shouldn't. She was more well-endowed than he originally thought.
'Concentrar! (Concentrate!)'
"I didn't take you for a Splatana main," he pointed out, trying to focus on the fight at hand. "But considering how you like getting up close and personal with people, I do agree it fits a pugilistic individual like yourself."
A Splatana Wiper rested in Frye's grip. She looked upon it with pride.
"Yep, this bad boy here is my bread and butter, and I'mma wipe the floor with you."
Syrus, glad he wasn't caught staring, snorted at the claim. "We'll have to see about that. Are you ready to begin?"
"Not yet. We need to talk about something first."
Syrus tilted his head. "Such as?"
And Frye gained a mischievous smirk. "A wager to add some sizzle to our game."
"You want to make a wager now?"
"Yep. You in? You better answer while it's just us."
He considered it. It wouldn't hurt to have a few favors saved up, and everything was progressing as scheduled.
'Non habeo soluta ligare. (I have no loose ends to tie up.)'
"Alright, I accept. What are we wagering?"
"We'll talk about it after the fight," she put a finger to her chocolatey lips and winked. "When I win, you'll see. Here comes the media."
Helicopters flew in to broadcast the match. It wasn't every day Frye challenged someone to a one-on-one fight. The scoop was sure to be gold.
"Let's not keep the people waiting," she turned to her opponent. "Show them what you're made of, Phantom."
Drones with cameras flew in and pointed their lens at the competitors. The two appeared on the big screen, and Frye's great big smile lit up the hearts of the masses.
"People of Splatsville, it's time to get this show on the road!" she declared. "As you can see," she gestured to her clothing and the rose in her hair, "I'm not holding anything back. I'm gonna give it everything I got!"
Frye knew how to hype up a crowd. She felt their cheers giving her strength. She also wondered.
'Is he watching me?'
She looked at Syrus through peripherals.
'Or is he closer than I think?'
"Here's my opponent, Syrus, the Phantom Octoling."
He accepted the new moniker with a proud smirk. To his surprise, some of the spectators near the gorge cheered his name. He was confident the masses would be against him, but seeing this, Syrus gave a peace sign to the crowds and his best smile.
"You guys know who he is, but today, he's gonna show you what he's capable of," Frye continued, then gave Syrus the spotlight. "Anything you wanna say to the audience before I explain how things work?"
He shook his head, responding with, "I doubt anything I say will go over well. I'm just here to have fun. Spending time with you will make my evening more enjoyable."
'Hiberent! (Stop it!)' he chastised himself again. 'Sumne id malum? (Am I that bad?)'
He didn't notice at first, but because of Zane's words, he was more conscious about it. He did acknowledge how easily the words came out, but occasionally, he said some things that should stay to himself.
Frye smirked and stabbed the Splatana into the ground, folding her arms after doing so.
"You know, something told me you had the hots for me. And when I saw your little interview, I was right."
Syrus wanted to disappear. This was not how things were supposed to turn out, but by the shine on her face, Frye wasn't upset with him. He could adapt.
"So what's your goal here? Planning on sweeping me off my feet?"
"You're calling me out in front of hundreds of people?"
"Hey, you're the one brave enough to spill your guts. Own up to it."
He grumbled and averted his eyes, responding, "Fine, may as well dig myself a deeper grave. Not like I'm already on people's kill list."
He lowered his shades.
"I didn't expect these turns of events, but as I told everyone, I'm not one to lie. I do hold myself to serious standards, but I have learned to take things slower since coming to Splatsville. Its chaotic nature was something I desperately needed in my life, but I never thought I'd have my three hearts stolen by my favorite member of Deep Cut, and I couldn't be more honored to share these moments with you."
Frye could only smile. Her cheeks started to glow a deep yellow, but Frye was happy to hear such genuine words. "Aww, thanks. Shiv's gonna be jealous when she hears this."
Syrus tried to cover his blue-tinted cheeks, but the cameras wanted, no, demanded to see the stoic Octoling's abashed face. He had no choice but to take it on the chin.
"Let's not beat around the bush. While I'd love to spend a nice evening in your company, I can't help but notice how mesmerized you were by my skills. Is that why you wanted a rematch? You wanted another display?"
"I wanted another chance at skinning you alive," Frye countered. She wasn't falling for Syrus' playful talk. "You're lucky I'm not using my eels this time."
"Oh, I'm lucky alright," Syrus nodded, "in more ways than one, and don't think I'm ungrateful for the opportunity. But I sense some pent-up tension. What kind of guy would I be if I left a beautiful woman unsatisfied?"
If they could see the city, Syrus and Frye would notice the sea of mixed faces. Some were laughing and encouraging Syrus. Others had a nasty scowl on their countenance, threatening to turn the homewrecker into fish food. The life of their ship was on the line.
Even with the NSS, Captain Clora covered her face while her two male agents doubled over in laughter.
"I see what you mean, Zane," Agent 9 coughed. "We… we created a monster."
"No fear!" Agent 7 wiped his tears.
Agent 1, watching the conversation unfold with her fellow agents, cheered for Syrus while Agent 2 ate snacks.
"That's what I'm talking about, Neo! Let the world know!"
"We should get back to work," Clora advised. "We can listen and work at the same time."
Agent 7 and Agent 9 saluted, but they were still a giggling mess. "Yes, Captain!"
Back at Scorch Gorge, Frye laughed at Syrus' bold statement. "I'm glad you haven't lost your touch, but don't get distracted by my hotness," she stepped closer to the secret agent. "I'm expecting you to come at me like you did before. No holding back."
"I never do, Frye," he assured her. "Don't fret; I promise to show you a great time."
A shudder ran up her nonexistent spine.
"Can't wait. Ready to hear the rules?"
"I'm all ears," he nodded back
Frye turned to the cameras again. "Alright, folks, listen up! We're doing something different. This is a game I came up with that I like to call the Hibachi. As you can see, it's just the two of us. I don't have Shiver and Big Man as backup, and Syrus is rocking alone. The game is simple. Instead of turfing, we focus on slaying. Whoever splats their opponent three times takes all. Simple, right?"
"Ah, that's why you demanded I bring my main weapon," Syrus pointed out.
"Yep yep, I know you're better with a Tri-Stronger than a Splattershot. Whaddya think?"
"Exactly what I expected from you. Are we allowed to use specials?"
"Whatever your kit allows. It doesn't matter."
Syrus affirmed his understanding. "This will be fun indeed. Ready for a repeat?"
Frye showed her pearly whites. "You have no idea what kind of trouble you're in. It's not gonna come down to who's stronger but who has the strongest will. Is your will to win stronger than mine?"
"You won't find anyone more stubborn."
Frye pulled her sword out of the ground.
"That's what I like to hear. Good luck."
Both went to their respective bases.
"And Syrus," Frye called out, causing the Octoling to pause. "I wasn't kidding when I said I can't let a loss slide. When I set my eyes on something, I never let go."
Syrus faced forward. "If that means you and I will be seeing more of one another, by all means, hunt me down all you wish."
The two went to the furthest areas of the marked battlefield. Its formation prevented them from spying on each other's camp.
'Non possum labi. (I can't slip up.)' Syrus closed his eyes while coming up with his attack plan. 'Illa me in virtute tundit. (She has me beat in strength.)'
On the opposite side, Frye went through the same ordeal.
'Here we go, Frye.' she fanned herself. She took the rose and twirled the stem between her fingers. 'Eye on the prize. Go for the gold.'
A starting horn blared in the background. The countdown has begun.
Three!
Frye put her good luck rose in her hair and gripped her Splatana Wiper.
'Let's do this.'
Two!
Syrus grabbed his Tri-Stringer. His face displayed silent determination.
'Saltatio fiat. (Let's dance.)'
One!
FIGHT!
Frye took off like a speeding eel chasing after its prey, and Syrus had seemingly vanished from the camera's sight.
Xxx With the NSS xxX
Agent 7 distracted the fuzzy ooze while Agent 9 launched his little buddy at the core.
Tendrils sprouted from the ooze and attempted to seize the Smallfry before he gobbled up the core, but Levi the Smallfry proved to be an evasive little scamp and evaded capture.
"Waaaah!" his battle scream echoed as he devoured the core in a single bite.
More tendrils sprouted before being reduced to ashes and attacked the two agents. The Smallfry was unaffected by the fuzz, but the other lifeforms weren't so lucky. Agent 7 and Agent 9 danced around the fuzzy attack and backpedaled to the start of the island, where they ducked behind some large crates and waited.
"Stop… it," an eerie and distorted growl rumbled around them.
The tendrils dissolved, but not without leaving the boys speechless.
The two bumped fists, but their troubles were far from over. A horrifying creature cast Its shadow over their hiding spot. Its features convulsed and wiggled out of control. Was it about to strike? Did something else rise after the last remnant of the fuzzy ooze met its demise?
"You look," Agent 7 nudged his partner.
"What?" Agent 9 looked appalled. "Why me?"
"You're physically stronger and I technically outrank you."
Agent 9 rolled his eyes, but he swallowed the pit in his throat and slowly poked his head out. There, he saw it.
"Waaah!" the beast roared.
"Oh, thank Cod," Luke breathed a sigh of relief, "it's just Levi."
"Dude," Zane slumped down and then regained his bearings. "Okay, that was freaky, right?"
"For real. Have you heard the same thing?"
"Stop it? Yeah, I heard. I'm calling that in. Boss Lady needs to hear this."
"You just want to talk to Agent 1," Luke stated.
"I will neither confirm nor deny that," Zane smirked and touched his earpiece. "Agent 7 to base, do you read me?"
"Loud and clear, Agent 7," Agent 2 answered. "What's the word?"
"Agent 9 and I got rid of the fuzzy ooze, but the thing attacked us right before disappearing."
"It attacked? None of you touched it, right?"
"We're fine, but we talked again. This time, it said to stop shaving it."
"Uh-huh, okay. …Captain says when you finish the island, don't immediately survey the next one. She wants all of us to head over together."
"Roger that. Agent 9 and I are going to wrap up here."
"Stay safe, boys. Agent 2, out."
"Wait!" 7 spoke out. "How's our boy doing?"
"Oh my gosh, Syrus is amazing," Agent 1 cut in. "He's down a point, but it's super close. You wouldn't believe what Frye did to score."
"At least he's staying in it," Agent 9 said with a hint of anxiety in his voice. "Is he going to make a comeback?"
Agent 1 responded excitedly. "He's holding his own extremely well. I have a feeling he can pull it off."
"Keep us updated," Agent 7 said. "We're heading o-."
"That's it, Neo! That's how it's done!"
Agent 7 and 9 doubled over in pain as their eardrums nearly shattered from Captain Clora's sudden outburst.
Xxx Back at Scorch Gorge xxX
Syrus was not having an easy time. Considering the caliber of his opponent, it was to be expected.
Frye was indeed a formidable opponent. Even before the two became entangled in their web of mystery, Syrus knew Frye was a strong combatant. Although he had extensive combat experience, Frye continued to surprise him. He had the advantage in speed and agility, but she had the edge in strength and unpredictability. Case and point, she scored the first point most unexpectedly.
Syrus perched himself atop the center platform, and the entire gorge was his oyster. He had Frye in his line of sight and a shot ready to splat her. Little did he know, Frye had that kraken in her. He let his arrows fly but found it weird how Frye never attempted to evade. She had been pretty good at guessing the trajectory of his bullets, but instead of dodging, she spun around with her Splatana drawn, and with an upward diagonal slash, cut through Syrus' arrows in one clean motion.
The ex-soldier was stunned, and Frye took advantage of the moment of vulnerability. She hurled back an ink slash and cut Syrus down in one strike.
1-0, Frye took the lead.
Nevertheless, Syrus was no stranger to tough fights. His ability as a sniper was pushed to the limit, and his evasive prowess stupefied Frye and the audience on more than one occasion. It was foolish to trade blows with her head-on. Instead, he used his Stringer to divert her attacks and look for an opening.
Frye pushed the offensive, forcing Syrus back hard with aggressive attacks. She knew she was the slower of the two, but in strength, she would overwhelm him. However, Syrus had not become an expert fighter by sheer luck, and he was able to withstand the pressure and point out openings in Frye's defenses. His accuracy and ability to read her attacks allowed him to stay slightly ahead in the fight.
"C'mon, Syrus, talk to me," Frye requested. "Aren't we having fun? Why so quiet?"
Syrus dropped to the ground in a split. The Splatana whizzed over his head, but Frye didn't dare let up. She knew what would come about if she let him follow up. Frye remembered the same combo that bested her last time. She thrust the Wiper into Syrus' back, but the ex-soldier quickly rolled to the side and stood on his hands. He clenched his bow between his feet and began a dance that had the audience chanting his name. Syrus spun around on his hands, using his feet to keep his Tri-Stringer in motion.
"Ain't no way," Frye commented, jaw slacked in awe as Syrus' breakdance deflected any strike she made. "When did you?"
Syrus kicked his weapon into the air and sprung off his hands and landed on his feet. He then threw down a Splat Bomb.
Frye jumped back, and through the ink explosion, Syrus rushed forward and kicked her with both feet. She raised her blade to block but fell back on the ground. Then, jumping off her Wiper, Syrus took flight, grabbed his weapon, and fired in rapid succession.
A storm of arrows rained down upon the ebony idol.
Frye couldn't escape, being pelted by the arrows, and exploded in a burst of blue ink.
1-1, Syrus tied it up.
The secret agent landed on his feet and moved to another vantage point.
Frye launched back to her base and shook her head.
"To answer your previous question," she heard Syrus' voice nearby, "I am having fun, but if I drop my guard for a single instance, it's over."
Frye pouted. "Aww, but I like our talks."
Her response came off as teasing, but there was also a hint of determination in her words.
"And I as well, but I might like your surprised face more," Syrus teased back.
She spotted her prey and moved in for the splat. Jumping from side to side to dodge Syrus' arrows, she picked up speed while charging forward with her Splatana pointed outward.
Scorch Gorge was painted in yellow and blue ink. The clanking of weapons clashing echoed across the canyon.
2-1, Syrus took the lead.
The fight continued. The crowd cheered. It was close. Everyone was screaming as the competitors went back and forth, blow for blow, heart to heart.
2-2, Frye tied it up and pushed harder.
Their fight continued with both opponents pushing each other to their limits. Syrus' impressive defensive skills matched Frye's relentless onslaught, and for a few minutes, the two kept the score even, unable to find the one chip in their armor to exploit.
Frye breathed heavily and wiped the sweat from her forehead. "I gotta hand it to ya, hotshot. You are tough to put down."
She hid behind a wall. Her hands were tingling, her fingers shaking, but her three hearts were pounding excitedly against her chest. This was what she wanted.
"Why? Why haven't I seen you guys before?" she questioned. "Why were you two hiding? We could've been rivals long ago."
Syrus looked troubled. He held his tongue but knew he had to answer.
"... I don't usually get into the game. I prioritize survival over recreation, but that's a story for off the battlefield," Syrus began to glow. "Let's finish the one we're in the middle of. We're reaching the climax after all."
As soon as he said that, a mechanical whirring started up. Six flying speakers spawned in a vertical hexagon formation and followed Syrus' point of view.
Frye recognized the sound immediately and flew into a panic.
'Uh-oh! Run!'
She hurriedly got to her feet. A second later, six high-pitched, narrow, wall-piercing lasers chased her down.
'Killer Wail 5.1.' she almost cursed. 'Just gotta last six seconds.'
Frye stayed on the move until the lasers ceased functioning and raced around the gorge to the center platform. She deployed a Torpedo in case Syrus was waiting for her and was glad the coast was clear. Atop the tower, she breathed a restorative breath and prepared for the next play.
She scanned the vicinity and saw Syrus running around. He was moving fast, shifting in and out of view, but the fatigue was getting to him too.
'Not bad, hot shot. I'm surprised you can still move that fast.'
Her grin threatened to split her face, smiling so large her pearly whites were showing.
"I hate it has to end, but I'll make sure you fEEL the pain."
Frye's shiny yellow hair gave off sparks and began flapping as if caught in a strong wind. Bubbles formed at the top of her head, and her tentacles became very brightly colored. She was glowing with wild energy.
She took a deep breath and followed Syrus' movements.
'Seven seconds. That's all I got.' she touched her rose. 'Wish me luck, Bolero.'
It was time for her final play.
"Syrus!" her voice echoed across the gorge.
Syrus paused and stared back at her. He saw her radiant glow and burned the image of her intense fiery stance in his mind.
"I hate we have to end it here, but it's time we settle the score. I love fighting you. You are one of my favorite competitors, and I've always enjoyed our matches. I hereby recognize your strength. That's why I'm firing it up! MORAY POWER, GIVE ME STRENGTH!"
The idol super jumped into the sky. Her presence was masked by the blinding sun, and that was the moment she unleashed Armageddon.
"Esoteric dance! Onaga Hurricane!"
From the heavens, Frye descended with the powerful Ultra Stamp special. The force of impact from that high up shook the gorge and threw Syrus and multiple bystanders to the ground.
Seven, the countdown began.
No time to waste, Syrus climbed to his feet and ran as fast as he could, but Frye was hot on his tentacles.
Six… five.
Syrus made a hard left and depleted his tank by dropping two Splat Bombs. He heard the explosions and checked the scene, but Frye was gone.
Four.
The idol emerged from higher ground and pounced on her target.
"You're still mine!"
She slammed the hammer down. Another quake shook the gorge and threw the ex-soldier off balance.
Three.
Syrus shot the wall and dove into the ink. He surged to the top and popped out while drawing the string back.
Two.
Frye bet it all on one last attempt. Heaving the stamp above her head, she prepared to catapult it.
… One.
"Checkmate!"
Frye threw the stamp, and Syrus took his shot. Another moment of time dilation occurred between the two. Neither Syrus nor Frye had time to move to safety, but they accepted this. Neither had time to launch a counterattack, but they accepted this too. They accepted their fates, giving their opponents a respectful smirk.
Zero.
Both were hit and exploded in their rival's respective ink.
The match was called, but Judd and Li'l Judd had to review the footage to ascertain a winner.
Syrus and Frye respawned and quickly met in the middle to see the results.
The audience waited with bated breath, sitting on the edge of their seats, and the two judges taking their time did not help kill the suspense. Judd held a yellow flag in his left paw while Li'l Judd held a blue flag in his right. After accessing the footage and the last splat, the cats finally reached a consensus.
Beads of nervous sweat rolled down Syrus and Frye's faces. The two competitors stood nervously, eyes glazed over as their fate remained unknown. Their hearts pounded in apprehension, eager but nervous to see their victory or defeat. The uncertainty of the situation added to their anxiousness, eager to see the results of the outcome of the match. Their hands twitched with excitement, but also fear, as they waited for the results. The suspense and anticipation built as they stood in silence, waiting for the results that would ultimately decide their fate.
Syrus was thinly close to screaming at the cats in his native language.
There was movement, and the competitors tensed up.
The yellow flag shot up. Judd bounced with excitement while his smaller friend fell to the floor in defeat.
"YEEES! THAT'S WHAT I'M TALKING 'BOUT!" Frye cried to the heavens.
The city went up in cheers and groans for their respective champions. It was such a close battle that neither side could disagree about its hype. Their excitement was palpable, the intensity matching their respect for each other's skills and prowess. The battle had been intense, the close competition proving each side's devotion and tenacity in the face of stiff competition. Both sides knew that their champions had put their all into the match, each eager to see the result and the victor declared. Even in the aftermath of the match, both sides admired their opponents, cheering for their hard-fought effort.
Elsewhere…
"NOOO! He was so close!" Agent 1 sobbed. Genuine tears filled the corner of her eyes.
"Callie," Marie rubbed her cousin's back. "It'll be fine."
"But Marie, his romantic future was on the line," the hysteric hopeless romantic hugged her family.
The other half of the Squid Sisters rolled her eyes with a large sigh.
"He played a good game," Clora admitted. "Who's to say he didn't plan for this outcome?"
The girls looked at their captain curiously. Then, Agent 1 quickly dried her tears and found a reason to smile.
"You're right. He has another plan," she clapped her hands. "Neo is still fighting!"
Back with the warriors, Syrus caught his breath while giving his opponent a well-deserved round of applause. He turned to her and offered his hand.
"Good match," he complimented.
Frye accepted, and the two ended their match with a great display of showmanship.
"I thought I lost for a moment there," she said, still pumped from the excitement of the match. She looked both relieved and proud when the yellow flag was raised. She was so relieved that she fell back on the ground and cheered for her success.
"So," Syrus kneeled beside her, "stealing my catchphrases now?"
Frye laughed. "It sounded too cool to pass up. Checkmate, it has a nice ring to it."
He pressed his cheek on his knuckles. "You're not wrong, and you're certainly a hurricane. Is that a family art?"
"Nah, that's just something I came up with, but it worked."
Syrus watched the cameras and helicopters pack it up.
"I'm an octopus of my word," he told Frye. "What can I do for the famous Frye Onaga?"
"First off," Frye sprung to her feet, "don't call me that."
She dusted herself off and made sure the cameras were completely gone, but she could see an influx of people trying to catch them. Although the match was over, people still wanted to enjoy the day at the National Park while it wasn't in rotation and meet the players who just put on such a grand display.
"Let's go to the studio," she suggested. "I'm going to interrogate you."
The ex-soldier could only groan. He had a sneaky suspicion the day was going to be another long one.
"Lead the way."
Xxx Bolero xxX
During the climax of Frye and Syrus' battle, Agent 7 and Agent 9 dropped into the chamber that was inside the big kettle.
"You're going back?" the former inquired.
"Yes. Dude, those were Octolings," Agent 9 reminded 7. "I know they've been fuzzified, but they're still my people. I can't get through to the troopers, but maybe we can study the Octolings and see what happened."
7 thought about it. He recalled something DJ Octavio said about his troops going missing, and from the war stories Syrus told him, the Dualie main surmised the rest of the Octarian military fell prey to the fuzzy ooze and were forced to act against their wills.
"How are you gonna get them out?" he asked. "I doubt O.R.C.A will allow that."
"I'll figure something out," 9 showed uncertainty. "But I'm still new here. O.R.C.A may not listen to me like she does Syrus. Seriously, how does he do it?"
"Agent 3 has proved to be an astute individual," the computerized overlord stated. "His contributions allowed me to collect a lot more precious data."
Agent 9 had an idea.
"Is that so?" he smirked. "Okay, humor me for a second, O.R.C.A."
"I have considered your request. You wish to liberate some Octarian soldiers in my tests."
"That's right, but there is a very good reason for it," 9 shooed 7 away while he chatted with the A.I.
Agent 7 accepted his load out, glad he could use his precious Dualie Squelchers.
"Let's get this show on the road," he passed through the cleansing chamber and into the main lair.
The innermost part of the kettle resembled a giant temple with marble columns stretching high to the ceiling. In the back, Zane could see a vault door very much like the one in Frye's kettle.
"There's our second piece."
He used the launchpad to soar through the air and land on the circular platform.
"Now, if I was a betting boy, I'd put my money on Shiver," he whispered to himself.
"STOP WHERE YOU ARE!" a voice ordered from the heavens as a cage lowered, trapping the agent inside.
Agent 7's guess came true as the blue-haired bandit of Deep Cut made her entrance. She smirked at the boy, but then her expression soured.
"Oh, it's the less impressive one," she waved off Zane's presence with a flick of her fan.
"Hurtful, geez," Zane touched his chest as if shot by a Stringer. "I have my own unique set of skills, thank you."
"Really? And let me guess, you're going to use them to beat me and take the treasure?" Shiver giggled. "You're much too delicate for this particular item. Don't you agree?"
"Delicate?" he scoffed. "I ain't no flower, but I am a sweet guy, and I would hate, hate, hate to hurt one of my favorite idols. So, for me, please save yourself a humiliating defeat."
Shiver narrowed her eyes while keeping her smirk.
"Ah, I see. Like your friend, you would dare put hands on a lady," she feigned distraught. "Guess you're pretty wicked after all."
She collapsed her fan and swung it to the side while glaring daggers at her opponent.
"We'll have to teach you some manners."
'We?' Zane pondered.
"Join me, Master Mega," she sang.
The pressure spiked, and a large fin raced to Shiver's side. It belonged to a large shark with shades on its head and equipped with a saddle and rocket boosters.
'A shark? The shell?'
Shiver hopped on the shark's back and opened her fan up while giving Zane an unsettling look.
"If that's how you feel, let's see how far your bravado gets you when you're up against the Hohojiro family's heiress. Pedal to the megalodon!" the Cold-Blooded Bandit declared.
Shiver and Master Mega circled the platform at blistering speeds.
"Share your wisdom, Master Mega."
The shark leaped out of the water and swung its tail. A vertical slash of ink charged straight at Agent 7.
"Whoa!" he did a dodge roll to escape the incoming ink, narrowly avoiding a direct hit.
'Okay, that's fast.'
Agent 7 painted the ground and then focused his efforts on the swimming shark. Its movements made it difficult for Agent 7 to hit. A few lucky bullets hit their target, but the shark remained unharmed.
"Time to feed the fish! Hahaha!" Shiver's shrill laughter echoed through the chamber.
Master Mega skidded across the platform and charged toward Zane with its jaws opened wide.
"You're kidding me!"
Zane quickly backed away from the shark, but it was quick enough to turn around and chase after him again.
Agent 7 thought fast, and he quickly threw down a Splat Bomb.
"No, Master Mega!" Shiver gasped but it was too late.
The shark swallowed the explosive and faced its fiery wrath. Its body expanded and shrunk as the explosion left the shark and Octoling grounded and dizzy.
"Eat ink!" Agent 7 pelted the duo with a turret of ink, pushing them back into the water. "How do you like that?"
Shiver climbed up Mega's tail and sat on the saddle.
"You're pretty tough… for an appetizer," she fanned herself and then prodded her pet with her accessory. "Master! I need you to REALLY focus this time, OK?"
Master Mega listened and let out a deafening roar, getting its second wind back.
"Attaboy, Master Mega! Let's FINish this! We'll shred you this time for sure!"
"Not if I have anything to say about it!"
As Shiver and Master Mega continued circling, Agent 7 looked for an opening. The shark was quick and unpredictable in its movements. When it charged across the platform, it was careful to keep its maw shut until the last second. The splashes of ink it flicked at the agent were massive, larger than a Splatana's range.
"Let's swirl things up!" Shiver declared as four whirlpools appeared in the water and then turned into tornados. "Way, WAY up! Haha!"
Master Mega rode the north tornado and took the high-ground… sky.
"Away we go!" Shiver cheered as the shark leaped an impressive distance to the east tornado and back again at impossible speeds for a sea beast.
"OK, Master Mega. Show this morsel your pearly BITES!"
Agent 7 bore witness to the shark bellowing an ink blast of intense pressure.
"Oh, come on!"
Zane made use of his dodge rolls to escape the ink blast.
"You're just full of surprises."
The high-pressure attack left the large shark panting for air. Using the moment of reprieve as his chance, Agent 7 hurled a Splatbomb into its open mouth.
"No you don't!" Shiver stood on her mount's nose and kicked the bomb away before it exploded. "Same thing won't work on us twice."
"Dang it," Agent 7 cursed under his breath.
Master Mega recovered from fatigue and dove into the water. The predator circled the platform to stalk its prey.
"What's the matter, appetizer? Can't handle the pressure?" Shiver taunted, laughing maniacally as Master Mega went back on the attack.
Agent 7 appeared more desperate while focusing on survival.
"I can handle anything you throw at me, Shiver."
Agent 7's expression was full of determination as he stood his ground. Despite his opponent's taunt and Master Mega's stalking, he still had confidence in his abilities as an agent.
Seeing this, Shiver couldn't help but smirk as she saw that Agent 7 was still fully engaged in the fight. Her plan seemed to be working, as she was slowly but surely wearing him down. She licked her lips.
"It's not enough, not until he's completely broken."
She unleashed the water beast.
Agent 7 was getting more and more exhausted. His body was torn and struggled to stay up. He didn't know how long he kept up the fight, but regardless, his smile never waned. He suffered bite marks, but he never fell.
"Agent 7, we're so sorry. We didn't mean to leave you hanging. How are you," Agent 1 gasped upon seeing the condition of her fellow agent. "Are you okay?!"
"I'm good," 7 told her, but his voice was low. Exhaustion was getting to him.
"No, you're not. Look at you," Agent 2 stated. "Where's Agent 9?"
"Taking care of something. Can't help anyway. Only two fighters at a time, but don't worry. I have this in the bag."
"Ha! You can still say that despite your condition?" Shiver sneered. "Your stubbornness isn't cute at all."
"Hey," Zane pounded his chest, his orange eyes lit with an emerald green fire. "I'm adorable, and it's not me being stubborn. It's just facts."
"Enlighten me please," Shiver crossed one leg over the other. "What idiotic train of thought led you to believe that?"
Zane caught his breath.
"You see, I'm built differently from most Inklings when playing Turf War. I play for the long haul."
The Inkling began to glow with special energy. His neon green, slicked-back hair sparkled and bubbled at the top.
"Since Syrus isn't here to explain, allow me. We're as far away from each other as we can be. Watch this."
He ripped his bandana off his forehead and tied it over his mouth. He then leaned forward and adopted a runner's stance.
"Agent 1, can you hear me?"
"Loud and clear. Are you alright? What's happening?"
"I'm better than alright. You could say I'm feeling a little… hyper."
Shiver laughed, knowing there was little Zane could do.
"I grow bored of this banter. It's time to send you on a one-way trip to the briny depths."
Zane breathed calmly, "Don't blink," and dashed forward.
Shiver, about to issue a command, was startled when the appetizer suddenly teleported to her side. She didn't have time to get a syllable out before green ink filled her vision.
Shiver dove into her ink to wash the filth away as Master Mega retreated into the water. When both surfaced, Shiver's condescending smile was replaced with unbridled fury.
"How dare you," she hissed. "What was that?"
Zane grinned behind his bandanna. "A little something I like to call… Hyper Flux."
"Hyper Flux? You're messing with me."
Zane ran in a zigzag pattern, and Shiver knew she was going crazy because afterimages were left in his wake. He slid to a halt and hopped in place.
"It's no trick. This is my coup de grace. Have you ever noticed how energized you feel when your special is available? Well, thanks to my buds, I learned to channel that energy more efficiently. Speed is no longer an issue."
Shiver growled. "Master! Get us back in the water! NOW!"
Master Mega did as ordered and dove into the depths. Its fin circled the platform, but Zane was running beside it, and keeping up with it.
"There's no escape," he said and attacked the fin to make the shark surface, where he deployed a splat bomb and backed away.
Shiver was blown to Mega's dorsal fin and flicked back up to avoid the water. She shook the dizziness away and slammed her palms atop Master Mega's head.
"Oh, come on! What is WITH you?! Master, you had better get serious... or else!"
The megalodon let out a fierce screech that halted Zane's movements.
"Yeah! That's more like it! Time to show you our REAL power!" Shiver cheered. "PEDAL - and I mean it this time - TO THE MEGALODON!"
With the rocket boosters, Master Mega swam faster in the water and used its momentum to cross even faster over the platform. It should've been too fast for a regular Inkling to dodge. Any other cephalopod would be torn to shreds.
"Stop dodging!" Shiver screeched.
Zane stayed silent and continued to move, his afterimages confusing Master Mega as he danced around the sea beast.
'I refuse to believe this. It must be some trick. This is unheard of.'
And yet, Shiver was seeing it with her own eyes, an Inkling running parallel with her pet.
"This is running speed, mind you," Zane pointed out. "Imagine how fast I can swim like this."
Shiver snarled. She felt her fan splinter in her grasp.
"Can you handle THIS?!"
Master Mega took to the sky with more tornadoes.
"Leave NOTHING behind, Master!"
The megalodon fired three blasts one after another. Its mistress was livid and so was it. This tiny morsel should've been devoured already, but the worm continued to meddle in their affairs. They would not stand for this humiliation!
Zane painted the ground green. He needed a big area to swim in.
"That should be good."
"Agent 7, what are you doing?" Agent 2 asked.
"Something crazy."
Master Mega needed to recover, but Zane could feel the pressure spike further as the megalodon's lividness skyrocketed. It was charging up.
"Time to end this," Zane took off in another sprint.
He circled the outer ring and gradually made his way to the center.
"WOOOHOOO!" he changed to squid form and dove into the ink, where his bright glow and increased swim speed created a green circle.
Shiver rubbed her eyes but there was no mistaking it. Zane was swimming so fast that a tornado erupted.
"Get ready, Master," Shiver stated, knowing what the agent was doing.
Zane, still in squid form, rode the tornado skyward, and at the apex of his flight, he let the tornado fling him through the air, where he rapidly closed in on the Deep Cut singer.
Shiver grinned wickedly. This was her chance.
"We have you now! Meet your fate! Master! FIRE!"
Master Mega released the most powerful ink blast it could muster.
'It doesn't matter how fast he is. He can't dodge in midair. We win!'
Zane was dangerously close to being hit. Agent 1 and Agent 2 were screaming for him to do something, but he ignored them and followed the plan.
He exited squid form and raised his Dualies. Then, with all his strength, he brought them down and used the pressure of his dodge rolls to flip over the ink blast.
Shiver's maniacal smile turned into sheer astonishment, mouth hung low, and eyes as wide as platters.
Zane aimed, and while Shiver couldn't see it, she knew the Inkling was grinning. The last thing she saw was Zane's gun pointed in her face.
"Jackpot," he fired a single shot from both guns and scored a perfect headshot. He landed on Mega's nose, saluted, and leaped back to the platform.
The tornadoes ceased, and Shiver was left panting in her small puddle of blue ink.
"Owww... I think that's enough of a lesson for today…"
Master Mega brought its mistress back to shore.
"Not bad, appetizer, but you haven't seen the last of Deep Cut," she fumbled with a smoke bomb, "Until next time," she dropped it. "OH N-."
The bomb's explosion sent Shiver and Mega flying out of the chamber in a less-than-stellar fashion, leaving Zane as the last squid standing.
A path leading to the vault emerged from the water; however, before Agent 7 took a step, he hit the ground with a solid thud and did not get back up.
The Squid Sisters immediately began to panic. "Agent 7? Agent 7! AGENT 7!"