Chapter 47: The Royal Rally (Part 3)
We were almost approaching the next game or the last game of the Royal Rally if Candace wins this and as soon as we were a few yards away, my heart felt racing a little. It's been fun so far, but it would've been even more fun if Blue was with me. But there was something on my mind that I haven't thought about for a while now.
Shouldn't I have been more wise about picking Gemma? Because since we swapped envelopes, Candace is gonna get after Blue for this. Maybe I should've stuck with Gemma. But maybe I'll give her an understanding. I voted for her after all.
…
Speaking of which…
"Hey, has anyone else besides Blue voted for Candace in the last three Royal Rallies?" I asked.
"Well… Emily did vote for Candace one time." Cheyenne asked.
"Just her. The rest of them she voted for was Gemma." Wendell said.
"So… she's a fan of both?" I asked.
"Well, you could say that, but she finds Gemma more entertaining. She could've gone to the winning team instead." Xavier said.
"I guess it was just her way of showing respect towards both." Cheyenne said. "When it comes to watching competition, she can root for just anyone as long as they play their hearts out."
"I know, but… damn, she could at least be loyal to one. She's thinking she is a fan of every fashionista in this world."
"Yeah, I agree. No wonder why she can't stick to who she loves best."
"Well… her being loyal to both is a good sign." I said.
"W-Why?!" Xavier asked me.
"I know that she finds Gemma the more "entertaining" participant, but her rooting for Candace as well shows that she's kind to both. It just shows that she isn't one-sided between the two."
"Yeah, but this is serious! I know that she wants to watch for fun, but the bottom line is having to be balanced doesn't mean anything. This whole thing is all about who you're really loyal to. It's like some type of "Need For Speed" game where you have to join a crew and remain loyal until something big happens. You can't just jump from one crew to another."
"O-Oh. I see…"
What is this "Need For Speed"?
"Are y'all doing something tomorrow?" Wendell asked.
"Not really. I'm just gonna take a day off." Cheyenne said.
"Same. I'm playing my games for 24 hours tomorrow." Xavier said.
"Oh yeah, me too. You down for Apex?" Wendell asked.
"Yeah. That's only if you're free though. I don't know what time you would be on."
"Alright."
"Although I'm so pumped for tug-of-war, I have a feeling that Candace's teammates are gonna become terrible again."
"Yeah, I don't know if Candace has any RELIABLE teammates because they aren't a good fit for her."
"You aren't gonna trust them for once?" Cheyenne asked with a sweatdrop.
"They were horrible last time!" Wendell and Xavier shouted.
"What the hell do you mean "We aren't gonna trust them"?!" Xavier asked? "They were nowhere to be found! They had no rhythm or engagement! So I don't know how I'm gonna feel if they don't win round 4!"
"Hopefully this doesn't get to the point where you have a tantrum." I said with a sweatdrop.
"Well I'm still pissed either way. I still don't know why this was even a thing."
Hopefully he keeps calm. He's still here to have fun after all.
"Ok, everyone, take your seats when you enter the field." The announcer said. "Round 4 will begin shortly. I hope you all are having a great time so far. This may or may not be the last game played. That depends on if Gemma wins tonight. Hold your breath, people."
"I wish to hold my breath, but I'm still not convinced that the teammates are gonna step up." Xavier said with an annoyed look on his face.
"Well, even if Candace loses, she has another chance to win it all. You don't want to overthink this." I said.
"I'm not overthinking it. I'm just having a little concern for Candace's teammates. If they are still playing terribly, there is no doubt who will be the scapegoat for Candace losing if she fails to win the final round. But Candace is still elite. I don't care what anyone thinks."
"I know, but I prefer showing faith in them. Anything is possible, you know?"
"You and Cheyenne just want me to have some faith in Candace's teammates. Or rather, you are pushing me to do so."
"Well… *sigh* Never mind. You just be yourself." I said, not having to take any more time giving him suggestions on what he needs to do more as a fan of Candace.
The four of us were now sitting down on the bleachers, waiting for the game to start. And what surprised me to say the least was that there was another bleacher on the other side of the field. It was more likely Gemma's fanbase and it was about to be the most electrifying round in the Royal Rally.
"Hey, isn't that Gemma's fan base over there?" I asked, pointing at the bleachers on the other side of the field.
"Yeah, it's normal." Xavier said. "And I hope Lucas and Aiden have their money because when Candace wins… ooh, it's payday for me."
He's really taking this bet seriously.
"And you know what would be even funnier than just seeing Gemma lose this whole thing? Gemma's fans getting mad or upset. Because it's funny to always see their reactions every time Gemma loses. It makes my days 10 times better."
"Well, my mom would hold a grudge in soccer sometimes." I said. "I would record her being angry, but it would be too much for her. I find it shocking, but funny at the same time."
"Oh wow. I should've seen that."
"Well, you wouldn't want to. I think you're going to make it worse than it is."
"No I wouldn't. Heck, I mean my mother can be very annoying sometimes, but whenever we watch sports or esports, she would care less if I record what's going on."
"Yeah, but my mother won't take things that lightly if me or you record her on just the way she reacts to stuff like that. We had a conversation about that once."
"Oh. She's still a cool adult regardless."
"Yeah, she is very great to get along with."
"Guys, I see the others. Over there." Wendell said as he was pointing to the fan base. "Look to the middle left corner."
We were looking to the middle left corner to see that Blue, Lucas, Juniper, Emily and Aiden were all on that side talking to each other.
"Oh yeah I see them. They all are gonna be mad when Candace wins. If she and her teammates can pick up the slack." Xavier said.
"It's still unbelievable though that they don't wanna join the family. We could've been talking to each other and made this environment even better." Wendell said.
"I wonder how they've reacted to all of that." Xavier said. "They should've been happy Gemma won that second round. Candace's teammates were so terrible. There wasn't any communication at all."
"Ladies and Gentlemen! The fourth round is about to begin! Please give it up for our contestants once again!" The announcer said on the intercom.
*CHEERING*
"YEAH!" Xavier and Wendell screamed as most of us were clapping at the contestants, including the teammates from both sides, head inside the turf where the tug-of-war was set up.
"Don't show any mercy, Candace! I'm counting on you!" Xavier shouted as he was still clapping for his "idol", desperately wanting her to win.
"Hopefully your teammates step up!" Wendell shouted as he was also clapping alongside.
I really hope this finally gets entertaining. The three matches were… meh. I know that the second one was a little fun but the rest of the matches were just one-sided.
As we both started giving our applause to the contestants on the field, both teams went to opposite ends of the rope that is lying down. They both were ready to give all they've got on the field.
"God almighty, I just want these teammates to do something. Some…thing." Xavier said while he was closing his eyes, hoping that Candace's teammates perform better.
"You really are desperate." I said to him with a sweatdrop.
"Again, for the 100th time, these teammates have no idea what they are doing. It's like they don't know each other for the first time. Or rather, Candace just recruits people that they don't know.
…
But even still, I got to at least show spirit. She's my idol no matter what she does or who she faces."
"I did say that before, you know?"
"No, you brought up having to have faith in her teammates. I'm just doubtful that they are going to get better."
"I know, but… *sigh* Ok, she's your idol. I'll back off." I said, not wanting to push the topic even further.
I would love to say this to Mom, but I believe she and Xavier are gonna be a bunch of overhasty people.
"Ok. Welcome to the fourth round of the series." The referee said on the mic in the middle of the field. "We are now at the final stages of the event. The title will be given here or will not be given here. It depends on whether Candace wins this whole thing. This round is gonna be a best-of-5. Good luck. Give it your all, and fight through the very end."
*CHEERING*
Oh my goodness. This is gonna be so crucial.
"Normally I was gonna expect the whole crowd cheering anytime soon." Cheyenne said.
"It has always been like that." Wendell said. "I don't know why Emily over there is cheering on Gemma. She should be on the winning team. Not the overrated team."
"Hell, you ain't wrong about that. She thinks Gemma's given her girl power. It's not gonna help her."
Now the attention goes to Emily all of the sudden.
"Well… it's too late now. You gotta roll with the girl power." Cheyenne said with a smirk.
"Hell no! It's boy power on this turf, ma'am!" Xavier shouted.
"Hmph!"
It's really girl power. They just have an issue with it.
The two teams grabbed each part of the rope as the referee was standing in front of them, waiting for everyone to get prepared.
Oh boy…
"Ok. Everyone, don't move. Relax your shoulders. On my mark. Are you ready? Are you ready?" The referee said on the mic.
"Come on. Come on." Xavier said as he was pumped up.
"1…
2…
3!"
The two teams were now pulling the rope aggressively. And things were about to get even more entertaining.
Or as I thought it would be.
"Look. Look. I'm telling you what was going to happen!" Xavier said, looking annoyed.
Candace's teammates were struggling just 2 seconds after the round just started and it was looking like it's gonna go Gemma's way already.
"Oh my god." Xavier said while facepalming.
"Are these teammates not that strong? What are they doing?" Cheyenne asked, looking disgusted.
"Round over! Gemma wins Round 1!" The referee shouted as we saw Team Candace get defeated badly. And I mean REALLY badly.
"These teammates aren't the answer." Xavier said with his hand still in his face.
"What. The. Hell?" Wendell said while he was shocked at what he just saw. "I don't know if these teammates are that bad at this game."
"This is just painful to watch."
Well… it's only the beginning after all. They just need to not make the same mistake.
Candace's Super Quick POV
"How is this even possible?! Where did they get all this strength?!" One of my teammates yelled, looking shocked.
"I don't know! Were we even trying?!" Another one of my teammates yelled.
"YOU ASK YOURSELVES THAT! I DON'T GIVE A DAMN WHO'S FAULT THAT IS! STEP THE HELL UP!" I roared at my teammates for their poor effort.
I'm about to have a freaking headache.
…
But this is my title I have to fight for so I have to contain myself and stay focused.
Gemma's Super Quick POV
"She's very angry." One of my teammates said to me as we were looking at Candace.
"Yeah, it happens. But let's keep going. I don't want to get eliminated again." I said.
"Ok, Gemma."
We all were grabbing on to the rope to prepare for the second round. My heart was racing… a little. I've been in situations like this before so I was attempting to take this seriously.
This is the strongest the adrenaline is for me.
Blue's POV
"And watch how they are gonna do it again." Juniper said as we saw the two teams grab the rope to prepare for the second round.
"It really is Gemma. Her chemistry is really strong. I can definitely tell." Emily said.
"But I don't know what is going on with Candace." I said. "Yes, she's really talented at some things, but every game plan she uses is not working. I wonder if she didn't work on studying how to be a vocal leader."
"Well she is vocal for sure." Lucas said to me. "I just don't know if she recruited people who are just stronger. Or rather… Did she even develop her teammates?"
"We'll talk about it later. Round 2 is starting." Juniper said.
"Are you ready? Are you ready?" The referee asked both teams on the mic.
Candace, I know you can battle.
"1…
2…
3!"
The two teams were now pulling on to the rope as they were attempting to battle harder. And things were now going as expected all until 20 seconds later…
"Oh my god. Team Candace." Aiden said as team Candace was making things easier for themselves.
"Oh my god." Juniper said, looking shocked.
"Oh no." Emily said, looking shocked as well.
There you go Candace. I mean… I am rooting for Gemma, but I just want you to do something.
And then seconds later…
"Round Over! Candace wins Round 2!" The referee yelled as Team Candace battled back after an abysmal start.
"Wow…" Lucas said in disbelief.
"Hey, I didn't think Candace was gonna get back up after that." Juniper said, being brutally honest.
"At least she was able to do something." I said with a sweatdrop.
"We're all on Team Gemma, you know?" Aiden asked me.
"I know, but every time I see Candace participate in physical events, she always struggles in many ways."
"That's true, but fans don't like traitors no matter what."
"At least keep supporting her." Emily said. "I'm sure she'll give you even more respect the same way Candace gives you."
"Emily, I'm sure she has a lot of respect for everybody in general." I said.
"I know, but still, she'll know that you actually mean it when you give her lots of support. She's not a tough nut to crack."
"And besides, she would want lots of praise so that she can have a massive amount of confidence. It's about bringing in the energy too." Lucas said.
…
…
…
"*sigh* If Candace doesn't see me for the rest of the way. She'll chew me out for this." I said as I gave in.
But I still gotta do this for Kaze.
"Just a quick apology won't hurt you." Aiden said. "You can apologize to her after the event."
Candace doesn't like traitors, so I don't know how she's gonna take it.
Gemma's Super Quick POV
This is so crucial. But I can't give up! I, Gemma January, can do this! I'm a complete superstar! I can do this!
"Ok. Again, relax your shoulders. Are you ready? Are you ready?" The referee said before we both nodded our heads before proceeding.
"1…
2…
3!"
We both started pulling as hard as we could as we were attempting to pick up the slack from last time.
As we were all pulling, our plan was to not get too comfortable as we gave Candace too much of an advantage after our first win so we were doing our best to pull as hard as we could.
"Harder! Harder!" I yelled to my teammates as we were struggling a little bit.
We all were making sure we were gripped while pulling as hard as we could.
And fortunately…
"OMG! When will you give this up already?!" Candace yelled as her team was moving towards us, not knowing that we were being serious now.
"Almost there!" One of my teammates yelled.
"Keep Going!" I yelled as we were not letting up.
"Hey!"
"Round Over! Gemma wins Round 3!" The referee yelled as we pulled past the center that time.
"Yes! Nice job, everyone! One more and we force a final round!" I cheered as I praised my team for their effort.
"Hey, we are all doing great! We just need to keep going!" One of my teammates said.
"Right!"
I need this win. Desperately.
Candace's Super Quick POV
This is a waste of time. I recruited my teammates for nothing. I hate when they do this to me.
…
You know what? I'm getting sick of being destroyed. It's time for me to show the Big Leagues that I'm much more than just a beautiful Princess.
That rascal's not getting my title.
Kaze's POV
So not just her teammates, but Candace herself is in a pickle. Hopefully the final round of this rally puts everyone at the edge of their seats.
"I can't believe I'm actually seeing liabilities in this event. Or maybe it is Candace. I don't know." Xavier said.
"I'm pretty sure Candace is the one who is no match for Gemma in terms of physical stuff. No disrespect." Cheyenne said.
"I wonder if she does any sports." I said. "She could've made it a challenge for Gemma had she done any."
"I wish she would, but we never got a word from her about sports."
"Oh. Then it seems she's gonna be at a disadvantage the rest of the way through."
"No. I know that she's gonna win Kartathlon." Xavier said. "She's been in situations like this before and I can guarantee that she can do this for the good of her getting into the Big Leagues."
"Well… would you wanna be Candace's teammate?" I asked Xavier.
"If I could play lots and lots of video games every day, then I could definitely have Candace's back no matter what. I could literally show the teammates why I stick with her in the long run."
"I see."
"Alright, y'all, Round 4." Wendell said as he was getting ready to watch the next round.
Holy hell, will this be critical.
"Are you ready? Are you ready?" The referee said on the mic.
I see Xavier trying to breathe smoothly as he was hoping for something big to happen, possibly Candace forcing a final round. This round was important.
"1…
2…
3!"
The fourth round was underway as both teams started pulling and a second into the match…
"Oh! OH!" Xavier and Wendell shouted as Candace and her team were already on the verge of winning the round.
*CROWD CHEERING*
"Harder! Harder! HARDER!" Xavier yelled. "Come on! You're right there!"
Then at that moment where Candace and her team were gonna force a fifth round, the round that was gonna put everyone at the edge of their seats and watch who would put the exclamation point… this happened.
"Man, why are they stuck there! Push!" Xavier shouted.
"They were literally right there!" Wendell shouted.
Goodness gracious!
Suddenly, avoiding another disappointing round loss, Gemma and her team were slowly coming back right to the point where things were even.
"What the hell, man~!" Xavier whined as he was upset that Gemma was turning the tide.
"Keep going!" Wendell shouted. "Are you guys really fatigued?!"
At that point, Gemma and her team regained their confidence and put Candace and her team on the verge of losing the fourth event.
"Wow, that's insane." Cheyenne said in disbelief. "Candace was right there."
"You cannot be serious." Wendell said while facepalming.
"Game Over! Gemma wins Round 4!" The referee yelled as after what was a crazy sequence from the start, Gemma wins three of four rounds of Tug-Of-War.
We all stood there in shock, disbelief and confusion as we did not expect this to go the other way around. I was shocked that Candace blew her chance to even things up. It was great energy and enthusiasm from the start until things went south. And Xavier is quite displeased about it. I even saw Gemma fans cheering loudly.
"Wow…" I said to myself as I sat back down.
Remaining silent.
…
…
…
…
Candace's crowd including us were just so silent after seeing this heartbreaking round loss. Everyone did not believe that Candace was gonna start off so well and then collapse from there. I didn't think it was gonna be a game-changing moment until Gemma started coming back.
"Well… I called it. I knew BS like that was gonna happen. These teammates are really useless. They were literally right there." Xavier said.
"They were this close! An inch!" Wendell exclaimed as he was gesturing how close Candace's team was to getting the victory.
"And they still lost! It's insane! We could've been even more confident on them now, but now that opportunity is wasted!"
"I almost felt convinced that Candace showed lots of grit." Cheyenne said.
"But the problem was that they collapsed after they were literally on the verge of winning." Xavier said. "It's just something that I don't like with her teammates. It's ridiculous."
"I'm just glad Kartathlon is just an individual event because these team battles are just not the answer." Wendell said.
"That's the one Candace is definitely winning. She always wins the final rounds. I don't care if Gemma still has it in her."
"Let's not jinx it though." Cheyenne said. "You don't know if she's going to win this thing."
"But I know what could happen despite Gemma being tougher than usual. Anything is possible."
"Yeah, but the more you keep talking about Candace winning Kartathlon, the more doubts there will be of Candace winning it."
"Just trust me! I know this! I watch stuff like this."
"We are her supporters after all. We just gotta give her confidence so that nothing gets in her hair." I said.
"Oh my– Ok, fine. I will try. For once." Cheyenne said while facepalming.
"Alright, everybody!" The announcer said on the mic. "It has been a long rollercoaster ride! 4 games down, 1 more to go! I want to thank everybody for coming out here and supporting these gritty competitors! Tug-Of-War has come to an end, but the series is tied 2 all! The winner of this next round will be crowned Royal Rally champion, so please follow the dotted line on your left as you move forward! You will see yellow tape at the end of the dotted line! You will be further instructed momentarily so please proceed!"
"Hopefully the traffic doesn't get too jammed." Xavier said in a raspy tone.
"We're in the second row so it's not that bad." Cheyenne said.
"*sigh* Yeah, but even still."
Just deal with it. It's not gonna kill you or anything.
"So, Kaze, how is Blue doing? Is she ok?" Cheyenne asked.
"Yes, we both linked up on our way over. But I feel like I gave her much of a surprise."
Hopefully this switcheroo doesn't lead to larger problems. But I can't tell Cheyenne about my next moves.
"Why is that?"
…
…
…
"It's because I unexpectedly convinced her to root for Gemma." I said after taking some time to explain.
"Wait, what?" Cheyenne asked in confusion.
"I didn't want to put too much on her, but… I felt like she hasn't given too much attention to Gemma. And Gemma to me is like a different fashionista. Her kind words, the way she looks, athleticism, all of the above, and…"
"But just imagine what it would look like now. I'm not sure if anybody told you this, but, unfortunately… it's probable that they are going to break ties. Candace
wants people to be actually loyal to her. She wants everybody who is a supporter to ride with her the whole run until the Big Leagues approves her. I know Gemma isn't the one to be scared of, but it wouldn't make sense to vote for two rivals. Did Candace mention anything about Blue?"
"We talked to each other, but not about Blue. When I brought up Gemma, she didn't look too happy, but she let it slide as she was glad I got to vote for her."
"She was… glad?" Cheyenne asked.
"I can't judge her personality. She was who she was."
"*sigh* You girls are something else." Cheyenne said with a sweatdrop.
"Well Blue has much more of a history of you guys than I have. I never knew either Candace or Gemma before I started befriending all of you so I'm literally new to all of this."
I still don't want to mention Hyperdrive City right now. I feel like I'm gonna rope her into this situation.
"That's true, but I'm just giving you the lowdown. Unless there's some genius strategy that could make her feel convinced."
"I wish there was, but I understand. It makes sense since she's almost a step closer to the elite ranks."
But maybe an explanation wouldn't hurt her. Especially when she gave me a chance.
"Hey, Kaze! Cheyenne! Do you see this?!" Xavier asked us.
What we were both looking at was a road track that was filled with two go-karts, (Colored green and yellow) a starting line and a stoplight. It was almost like a professional race track with the way the environment looks. It could definitely be action-packed.
"Not bad." Cheyenne said with a small smile.
"It looks really nice." I added with a small smile of my own.
"This is really A1." Xavier said while looking at the scene. "It's almost as if we were in a racing circuit."
"But I wonder if these two are going to be ok doing this." Cheyenne said. "This is their first time attempting something so serious and I have a feeling that there could be one dangerous incident."
"They'll be fine. It's not like their bodies will be too fragile afterwards."
"Still, I'm worried about their safety." Cheyenne said with a sweatdrop.
"I already know Gemma drives, so I'm not gonna be really concerned." I said.
Although she owns a vehicle that is too fast for her.
"Oh yeah! Gemma does drive! How are you not knowing this, Cheyenne?!" Wendell asked.
"I-I'm just more concerned about them running into one another!" Cheyenne said. "They are rivals, so the bad blood is going to grow even more by them just playing around so much."
"Well… You have a point." I said. "Hopefully some actual rules are applied to this so that all of this doesn't lead to a disaster."
Because cheating is a no-no. I know Gemma isn't a malicious person, but with Candace hating the sight of her, she could give her serious problems. I'm just being aware of both of them because I don't like to give up on them. And I would do anything to get them to Hyperdrive City and try something new for a change.
"I mean, I can agree with you on that." Wendell said.
"But you sometimes gotta trust your guts. If Candace has the willpower to compete in anything, she can definitely put in the finishing touches in this event, like a svelte human being would always do."
"It's like sports. You just gotta be confident and have heart." Xavier said. "And Candace's teammates didn't do just that."
"You don't need to say things like that so nonchalantly." Cheyenne said with a sweatdrop.
"Alright, everybody!" The announcer said on the mic. "Final Round of the Royal Rally! Both contestants have won two out of three games so far! It's still anyone's game! Kartathlon is the last event! The contestants are still waiting to be prepared so here is the rundown of the event!"
Hopefully there are rules.
"There are going to be five checkpoints on this long track. The two contestants are going to start off with driving go-karts. They will race their way through the checkpoint which will be the white line on the course. If contestants pass through there, they will get off the go-kart and start to run towards the next checkpoint, and they will be repeating this until they reach the checkered flag. The person who reaches the checkered flag first, wins and will be crowned the new Royal Rally champion."
"No surprise." Xavier said.
"There are rules that apply to this event. Contestants will have their seatbelts on at all times. Bumping or crashing into each other intentionally will result in a 10-second penalty. Contestants are required to drive safely and fairly. In running, tripping or putting hands on one another will result in a 10-second penalty. Contestants are going to make this event as clean as possible."
"Ok. Hopefully that works." I said with a sigh of relief.
"I guess I am just exaggerating. I probably should take it a step back sometimes." Cheyenne said with a sweatdrop. Again.
The stress is really getting to her.
"There will be one twist, however, in this event." The announcer said. "Each lane is optional for both competitors so competitors can take whatever lane necessary."
"Ok. This is actually "Need For Speed" like now. That I completely like." Xavier said.
Optional?! No no no! This cannot be right! If this is a real street, I don't know what could definitely happen!
"What the hell? This isn't a video game! Why are the lanes optional?!" Cheyenne asked with a disgusted look.
"Girl, get a grip! This is a race track! Not a street!" Xavier said.
"Well, even still, I don't know what the hell is gonna happen to them!"
"You're just looking at it differently." Wendell said.
"It's almost time for the final event! Let's make some noise for our competitors one last time!" The announcer shouted.
*EXTREME CHEERING ONCE AGAIN*
"CANDACE!" Xavier and Wendell yelled, excited that they are going to watch their idol win it all tonight.
As we all were watching Gemma and Candace make their way towards the starting line, they both had on racing helmets. They kept their current outfit on.
Shouldn't they be wearing racing suits too?
"This is her night! Lucas, Aiden and the rest, all better have my money right towards me at the end of the night!" Xavier said.
"And he's going to somehow jinx it." I whispered with a sweatdrop.
"Unfortunately, we won't know unless we watch the whole thing." Cheyenne said to me.
"Wait, so… are we going to stand and watch right here?" I asked.
"I don't know. I don't think they said anything about that yet." Wendell said.
"That's odd though. We need to see what's going on."
"Yeah. Me too."
It will be a shame if we're gonna be standing here not knowing what's about to happen.
"Everyone, attention please!" The announcer said. "While the contestants are getting prepared to start, you all are going to keep moving until you see a big screen showing Candace and Gemma racing each other. There will be live action but you won't miss most of it, so we will keep you posted. So please keep moving forward."
"C-Come again? We have to keep moving?" Cheyenne asked, looking very lost.
"Man, this is ludicrous. Why do we have to keep moving?! Like why?! We just want to see action!" Wendell shouted, looking frustrated.
"*sigh* More moving around. Freaking ridiculous." Cheyenne said in a… pissed-off (kinda) tone. Don't ask me.
"Wait, how are y'all pissed off about that?!" Xavier asked. "I watch shows and movies where fans just stand and watch without the bleachers. They just stand on the streets."
"Yeah, but that's street racing. Which is illegal." Cheyenne said.
"That's true, but I like stuff like that."
Cheyenne then left that conversation with a sigh, not wanting to push the topic further.
We all were moving towards the location point where the screen is at. It was disappointing that we were gonna miss the beginning portion of the race since this was important for not only us, but for Candace and Gemma. Xavier's confidence might be soaring, but I have a strong feeling that things are going to be tight, no matter how high the odds of Xavier winning his bet are. Even my heart is pounding because of what's going on. This event was really competitive and I wasn't sure what's gonna happen next.
"I don't get why this stuff is so confusing." Cheyenne said, looking stressed. "This is gonna be the death of me."
"I agree. This feels a little off not watching the beginning of the race. But at the same time, I guess that's just how it is." I said with a sweatdrop.
"You seem quite calm about it."
"I have little experience. So I don't have a say in this."
"Well… *sigh* Yeah. That's reasonable."
"Y'all seem very comfortable over there!" Xavier said, in a teasing manner, walking backwards.
"H-How should we act?" Cheyenne asked in an annoyed tone.
"You don't gotta act as anything. I'm just saying. You both are getting used to each other so quickly."
"It's because we have the same trait. We aren't into the things that you do." I said.
"Well… not really. I'm not like you." Cheyenne said. "I can be a little… peevish, but that's because of him. And I'm sure Candace feels the same way."
"Nuh-uh. I'm sure she's too shy to admit things." Xavier said.
"She's not always shy. It's just that you're always in her boundaries."
"No I'm not. I can literally read her mind. It's written all over her face."
"You really got a taste for teasing girls, huh?" I asked Xavier.
"That's because I love to be funny. Well, sometimes."
"I don't see you as funny." Cheyenne whispered to herself, looking annoyed.
"You two are quite a pair." I said to Cheyenne.
"I didn't want this, but over time, I've gotten used to him. He's still a pain in the ass. I'm glad I'm finally talking to someone who isn't."
"Well… do you find me intrusive?"
"N-No, not at all."
"I can always talk to you. I know you talk to Blue and you both are mature. She did keep me company for a few days now and now I must do the same thing to you. You don't need to worry about Xavier's weird habits all the time. I don't do the same things that you do but I'm always open to interacting with you."
"Oh no. No. I don't find you as an annoyance. I'm just saying that I'm finally talking to someone who is more of a weirdo and more mature. It just keeps me going."
"So you like to talk to mature people? People who share the same experiences as you?"
"Yes. You get me. That's how I get more comfortable with others. It's my normal lifestyle."
"Oh. I see. That sure does feel comfortable."
"Yes. That's how other people are. They don't want to say or do unnecessary things. I am one of them."
"Well, that's good to hear."
Cheyenne sure seems mature. No wonder how people don't keep her company.
After walking a couple more feet, most of the crowd were about to stop because of the location point that they found. It took several minutes though because we all are not so new with this event. I was hoping for the pace to be faster just in case something happens.
"The fact that we have to walk several miles and not watch the beginning of the race is really annoying." Cheyenne said.
"Just stay strong. We're almost there." I said to Cheyenne.
"Aren't you pissed?"
"I would be if I was a fan of this. But I'm new here. I don't know much about this."
"I see. I'm just glad this is almost over. This really got me tired. Hopefully something thrilling wakes me up."
"Yeah. I'm expecting something big to happen. These two have been going neck and neck for four rounds. Now I'm hoping something big will happen."
"Yeah. But… I should honestly feel regretful."
"Huh? How come?"
…
"I-I never gave full support to Candace. I never acted like a huge fan to her when she was competing."
"You don't need to. Even though you voted for her, you just only care about watching it, right?"
"R-Right, but… I have a feeling that one day, when she asks me if I was supporting her, she would be really upset with my answer."
"Oh. Well don't let it get to you. She may be happy that you voted for her, but just get defensive, no matter what she says. A lot of people are fans of different celebrities so she is not the only one that deserves the spotlight."
"You think I should get defensive?"
"Y-Yeah. I get defensive when I have to, but I say the right words when I'm doing it."
"You really are something else." Cheyenne said with a sweatdrop.
"Well, I wouldn't consider myself something else… but that's normally how I am."
"We're here, ladies!" Wendell said as we were now inches to the location point.
"Finally! I don't know how many more we have to do, but this doesn't sit well with me now." Cheyenne said.
"You still ranting about that?" Xavier asked, looking disgusted. "Give it a rest! The Royal Rally doesn't change by your demands!"
"I am, but I just can't with this! I prefer watching it all the way through as a fan that is watching in-person."
"I mean, I would be pissed off too, but it is what it is! Kaze, tell her!"
"W-What do you want me to say?" I asked, looking a little nervous.
"Tell her that it is what it is! Duh!"
I was looking at Cheyenne, who was looking at me with her arms crossed. I wasn't in the mood to do this, but I wasn't going to waste any time trying to make the situation.
…
So I just said this.
I don't like doing this, but…
"*sigh* Cheyenne…"
"Don't. Just don't." Cheyenne said with a sweatdrop.
"You really need to suck it up. You have no heart and it's pissing me off how you are complaining about walking the whole event." I said.
I then heard snickering from others including Wendell and Xavier was just clapping at what I just said.
"There you go, Kaze! Teach her some manners!" Xavier said.
"You shut up!" Cheyenne shouted. "And I know you're doing this just to kid me so freaking much!"
"I don't care. You heard her. Suck it up."
"I wish I could hurt this…"
"Cheyenne, I wasn't doing this intentionally." I said.
"Y-Yes you were!" Cheyenne shouted.
"No, Kaze, that's what you're supposed to say. That's how you get girls to shut up." Xavier said.
"H-Hey! I was only doing this for once! I'm not like you, you know!" I said, looking uneasy with his antics.
"Oh, look, y'all! Candace is in front!" Wendell shouted, pointing at the big screen ahead.
"She's in front?! Lemme see!" Xavier shouted as he was attempting to look at who is in the lead of the race.
"That's right! That's my idol right there! Go, Candace!"
"Finally… moving away from this idiotically ridiculous topic." Cheyenne whispered with a hand in her face while raising her head.
"At least we burned some time with some entertainment." I said.
"That wasn't entertaining. By a longshot." Cheyenne said.
Well, in terms of making jokes, I wouldn't say that would be entertaining.
Candace's Super Quick POV
Ohohohoho! That blonde rascal will be history when I'm done with her! I just need to keep at it!
Heading into the next section, I'm in the first place with lots of momentum on my side. It gets so much better with me competing individually and Gemma never stands a chance with me battling her.
I've been in this situation before. I just need to do it again.
Gemma's Super Quick POV
Wow… Candace is really good at driving. But I gotta step my game up. I've been into situations like this before. I gotta stay focused.
It hasn't been a great start for me as I was almost to the first checkpoint. The reason being… I wasn't aware of the race light turning green. I was thinking about the past times where I failed to beat Candace in the final rounds.
It has been a nightmare, but I don't let it impact who I am. I brighten everyone's day after all so I am tempted to push myself even harder and have the potential to become a winner tonight.
This is gonna be a really long ride.
I was now inching towards the first checkpoint with Candace still leading this race as I was finding a way to get myself going. There's a lot of pressure being put on me.
Blue's POV
We were watching the big screen showing Candace and Gemma racing, and I was obviously confused on why we needed to keep walking.
It's honestly been a hassle walking around because I know we've been here for five games, but it would've been easier if we did this in the evening and not at night. I was already a little tired after watching some crazy matches, but I still believe it was fun overall.
Even though Candace still has a lot of temper on her shoulders. It's still a pain to deal with.
"*sigh* I wish we would've done this earlier." I said, looking a little tired.
"Are you ok, Blue?" Lucas asked.
"Huh? Yeah, I am. I'm just… tired. I had a long day."
"I know. It is getting dark outside. And things are looking dark for Gemma."
"Yeah. It's not looking great. But she is still talented, and hopefully Candace can respect her after this. Her rivalry has lasted long enough." I said with a sweatdrop.
"I'm still surprised why they haven't physically fought yet." Juniper said.
"H-Huh? Are you crazy, Juniper?" I asked, shocked at what she said.
"What? Y'all don't like physical fights? It amps the competition up."
"Y-Yeah, that's definitely not gonna help." Lucas said with a sweatdrop.
"That makes the feud worse. Please don't bring that up again." I said with a sweatdrop.
"Wow. Sad."
"I'm just… *sigh* I don't know what's gonna happen next for these two. I'm just optimistic. It's Candace's last stint. I don't want my friend to throw more punches. Gemma's too kind to be treated horribly."
"So you do want to see physical fights!" Juniper said with shock.
"No! I didn't mean it like that!" I shouted. "I'm saying. Gemma is just a nice person. It's just that I'm hoping Candace isn't really trying to get her out of the League so that she can stop distracting her from achieving dominance."
"Well… that's basically trash-talk." Juniper said. "Gemma for some reason just doesn't let it get in her head. You should know Gemma's immunity to trash-talk. You think she would cower in fear and not think about Candace being a bully?"
"No, but what I'm clarifying is how this event ends. Candace told me this was her last time participating in the Royal Rally but never told me how she would feel about not having to duel Gemma anymore. I'm not sure how this would all end if Candace does end up winning it all again."
"Oh. Well, I'm hoping for a shell-shocker, but I guess I can't argue with that." Juniper said.
"I hope not according to the main topic we're talking about." I whispered.
*BELL CHIME*
"Checkpoint!" A voice that sounded like a woman's voice said on the intercom.
"Looks like Candace made it to the first checkpoint." Emily said to us as she was looking at the big screen in front of us.
"She's gonna have to brace herself for running." Aiden said. "Even though she doesn't like it."
"I don't know if she can withstand all that running. She's not an athlete. Hopefully someone brings her water afterwards." I said.
"No. That doesn't work like that." Juniper said. "She's going to have to go all the way. However, there may be a chance that she's already hydrated."
"I hope the section is short. They can't endure a long marathon if they're not hydrated." Emily said.
She's right. My friend is not an athlete. I haven't seen her do as much running as possible. The last thing I would ever expect is her collapsing because of exhaustion.
"Yeah. Hopefully that's the case." I said.
*BELL CHIME*
"Checkpoint!" The same voice said on the intercom.
"Yeah. Gemma has that speed. She's really swift." Lucas said.
This is gonna be really close.
Kaze's POV
"Candace getting ready to use her legs." Xavier said.
"Hopefully she doesn't get tired. She's gonna be prepared for a long marathon." I said.
"You know Candace. I know Gemma's fast and all, but there's a possibility that she chokes. Again. She's gonna choke again."
"So now it's Gemma that you hate, right?" Cheyenne asked.
"I never said that. She's great, but Candace is better. She beat Gemma 3 times. I know she's gonna do it again. I really don't know how many times I gotta keep saying this." Xavier whispered in exaggeration.
"And the way she's competing right now proves it. It's almost as if a huge debate ended in just seconds." Wendell said.
"That's right, Candace! Take it all the way!" Xavier shouted as she was already running to the next checkpoint.
Please be ok, Candace. I'm worried about your health.
"It says the next checkpoint is 250 yards away. I guess that's not too bad." Cheyenne said.
"Sure isn't. It'll be easy enough to get the victory in no time." Xavier said with a grin.
"I still have a feeling you're gonna jinx it." I said with a sweatdrop.
"Just leave him. He's her fan so he's not gonna budge anytime soon." Wendell said to me.
"*sigh* If you say so."
He still should lay off her already. I can see that she's supporting her, but we have to watch the whole thing and not already decide who's the clear winner.
Gemma's Super Quick POV
As soon as I took off my racing helmet that I had on, I went to the starting line for the running session of the race as there was a stop sign right in front of me. I looked extremely energized as I was ready to knock the running session out of the park.
Alright, Candace. Get ready. I'm coming for you.
A couple of seconds after waiting, the stop sign moved aside and I was off and running in the running session. I like running fast so I should expect myself to catch up to Candace.
I'm coming for you, Candace.
Candace's Super Quick POV
I was a couple of yards away from the next checkpoint and it was a breeze for me. It's always me doing the right things. I'm Candace Maxey after all.
…
Well… until I reconsidered it.
Why do I hear more footsteps? There's no way it's her.
"Candace!"
I'm sick of this bastard. I really do. This is starting to piss me the hell off!
It was not long until Gemma started to catch up and said my name. As soon as I was in a great position, she started to mess up all the momentum I had.
"Hey~! Did you miss me?" Gemma teasingly said to me as she finally caught up to me.
"Don't get your sick hopes up! Now you've already lost!" I shouted at her.
"Oh really? I'm sorry. I guess I said too much." Gemma said as she was continuing her run with a burst of speed as she went ahead of me in an instant.
"You…" I was furious. I really wanted to give her a piece of my mind, but then I calmed down afterwards because I realized that she's going to choke at some point.
Actually, she can get ahead of me. Because once she chokes, I can't wait to see that sobby look on her face after I beat her. Ohhohohoho~!
Gemma's Super Quick POV
Alright. I've overtaken Candace. Now it's time I need to push forward. I've gotta get this win so I can celebrate with everyone. That overtake with Candace has really given me big energy.
I was now a few yards away from the next checkpoint after I went past Candace. The race was still tight and I had strong belief that my fans were a little nervous because they hadn't seen me finish the job before in a single Royal Rally.
And not to mention, this is the first new event that we've had in all four events. The final events were kinda… repetitive. This one's actually brand new, so I should win this. I've always had belief in myself so I should find a way to capitalize.
And I will find a way to capitalize. It's time to put my game-face on.
Kaze's POV
"And just like that." I said after Xavier predicted that all momentum was going to go on Candace's side and it was ruined by Gemma passing Candace for the lead.
"Gemma can have that lead. Watch how she's gonna choke at the end. She's already lost. I know she's lost this one."
"Ok, are you gonna keep on spoiling the whole match or are you gonna shut up already?" Cheyenne asked, looking a little irritated at Xavier's topic.
…
…
"Ok, ok. Alright. I'll shut up already. Why are they looking at me like I'm a freaking weirdo or something?" Xavier asked as he looked confused at the amount of people who were simply annoyed at the fact that he kept spoiling the match for everyone.
"I mean, that's you, bro. I was the one who had my mouth shut this whole time." Wendell said.
"And you couldn't dial it back a bit for once." I added. "Maybe at least enjoy it like it's a sport, but don't spoil it too much."
"Well, with the amount of people that looked like they were about to beat my ass, I guess that's fine, but they need to dial it back a bit." Xavier said while he was looking at the amount of people that were there.
*BELL CHIME*
"Checkpoint!" The woman's voice on the intercom said.
"I still think Gemma's gonna choke." Xavier whispered.
I wish we could just enjoy the final event already.
Blue's POV
"Now I hope Gemma keeps that lead! And Xavier better have that money right in front of me!" Juniper shouted.
After what was a great overtake by Gemma, most of her fans were cheering as she was getting ready to get back on the kart for the third section of the race. And I had a feeling that the next part of the track is gonna get really difficult from there.
"Yeah! It was crazy! *giggle*" Emily said as she was surprised at what she just saw.
"I'm just optimistic about Gemma holding this lead though." Lucas said, looking a little worried.
"Same here." I said.
"Wait, why? She's great when she's for real." Aiden asked.
"Because what if she does choke? Do we consider her a special being for nothing?" Lucas asked.
*BELL CHIME*
"Checkpoint!" The woman on the intercom said.
"Well… possibly. But maybe this is the day where she doesn't choke. You just gotta believe. She may have choked in the previous events, but it's possible that this is the event where she doesn't choke. We just gotta watch the whole thing."
"I agree. Normally I would be nervous about Gemma, but the best thing to do is to believe. If she was here right now, she would tell us." Emily said.
…
"*sigh* I wish I could object to that, but you're right. I chose this route after all so there's no point in not being a party-pooper about it." I said.
"Right? So you just gotta believe. Maybe Gemma will win if you support her." Aiden said.
"You made a bet too, Lucas. So you gotta be confident in yourself." Emily said.
"Oh yeah. Yeah. I did bet on Xavier. He loves Candace so I gotta make sure I win the bet." Lucas said.
Candace's still gonna chew me out for this. I'll try to make it up to her next time.
"Alright, everyone!" The announcer said on the mic. "The contestants have reached the third section of the race! So you all will now move to the second big screen of the event, so please keep moving forward until you see the second big screen."
"Come on, Gemma! I believe in you!" Juniper shouted as we were getting ready to move forward and head to the next big screen.
"Or rather, you should act like Juniper." Aiden said to us.
"We'll try. At least." I said while having a sweatdrop with Lucas.
Gemma's Super Quick POV
After the stop sign moved to the side, I was off and racing to the third checkpoint while having a strong lead over Candace.
While moving on ahead there were tires and cones placed on the track in a very slalom-like way. Almost as in, it's expected for me to make very sharp turns.
Uh-Oh. There's obstacles on the course. Maybe I should… play it safe and take my time.
I pressed the brakes as I was doing my best to avoid the cones and tires. It was a little difficult for me since the space was so tight and I have a feeling I might bump into an obstacle.
I can still do this. I just can't make one simple mistake.
Candace's Super Quick POV
I was racing to the next checkpoint and I was hopeful that Gemma would screw up at some point of the race. But I would rather not talk about it now since this is all about me after all. And I have to prove to the legends that I'm astonishingly one of the most beautiful and brazen women in all of the United Kingdom.
Mother. Father. I won't let you down. I swear of it.
After driving the next few miles ahead, there were a little bit of obstacles placed in a slalom-like direction. And it was a little odd and confusing to be honest.
Why did they place cones and tires on the road?
This isn't an obstacle course, isn't it?
Blue's POV
As we were walking towards the next big screen, I was looking at the crowd's mixed reaction as some of them were looking concerned and some of them were looking confident. I can't say why though because I didn't want to invade their bubble, but I was hoping for them to be concerned.
They saw what happened to Gemma the last three times she was facing Candace. They could at least show some concern. It's true that they don't know I'm secretly friends with Candace, but the heartbreak would get so much worse if Gemma doesn't beat Candace. Because it would ultimately end the rivalry and conversation between two fashionistas. There's gotta be a miracle tonight.
I don't like putting faith in somebody who knows she's gonna lose, but if Aiden and Emily want me to do so, then I'll put faith in Gemma. They are my friends after all, so I guess there's no point in resisting now.
"We did a lot of walking today." Lucas said as we were moving on ahead.
"I think this is a great exercise. No wonder why this feels so good." Emily said, acting nonchalant about it.
"Yeah. For you." Juniper said with a sweatdrop.
"C-Come on, Juniper. You don't think this exercise is good?"
"My legs kill me. I like being in good condition."
"But your body isn't doing enough. The only way you can be in great shape is if you exercise."
"You watch anime all the time, Emily." Aiden said.
"That's true." I said.
"No doubt about it. You're the only person with a phone in your hands 24/7." Lucas said.
…
…
"So… the moral of the story. You can't single me out." Juniper said to Emily.
"Th-That doesn't exclude the fact that I'm the only person in the group working out! It's likely that Cheyenne does it too!" Emily shouted with blushed cheeks.
"Yeah she does. I might have to be the judge of you doing it though." Juniper said with a sweatdrop.
I can tell she doesn't work out. Unless she can change my mind.
"A-Anyway, changing the topic, doesn't this day feel so long? Because to me it does." Emily asked.
"Yeah. To me." I said. "I did a lot of things today and I haven't had a chance to rest."
"It's true. The library was so busy that I couldn't get a chance to take a chill pill." Lucas added.
"Why can't you ask for the day off?" Juniper asked.
"It's like school. Unless you're sick or hurt, you can't miss work. You're supposed to be on time. And I love the library so much." I said.
"But you said you haven't had a chance to rest."
"I didn't, but there was extra work that needed to be done today. I couldn't resist it."
"Xavier didn't have the energy to do it, but it was for the best. We needed that extra pay." Lucas said.
"That's Xavier alright." Aiden whispered with a sweatdrop.
I still don't get why he's too obsessed with other things rather than the extra work.
"Do you think you're gonna get the extra work again?" Emily asked.
"I don't know. I haven't asked Ms. Sparr yet. But it's probable that she does."
"We're still young, but it's only because there's no more than 6 workers at the library, so we're the only ones that need to do the grinding." Lucas said.
No wonder why most of them want to do it. This could've been done very smoothly if there were others that signed up.
"Maybe I should ask Kaze if she wants to take part." I said. "She loves books so she could definitely play a huge role. I'm sure she would love that."
"Is she really that much of a reader?" Juniper asked with a sweatdrop.
"We barely know each other, but I guess she does the same stuff that I do." I said.
"Where did you find her anyway? How did you manage to link up?" Juniper asked.
"Well me, Lucas and Xavier all saw her at the library and the park. She was with her mother when we first saw her."
"But then Xavier was eavesdropping in their conversation. *sigh* It's just another one of his motives, I guess." Lucas added with a sweatdrop.
Can't argue with that.
"But overall, what do you guys think of her? Do you think you can get used to her?" I asked.
"I don't mind getting used to her. She's no harm after all." Emily said.
"Me either." Juniper said.
"Yeah. She's pretty ok to be around. Kinda." Aiden said.
"Ok. That's good. I'm really glad." I said.
Totally glad. Because I definitely find her reliable.
Kaze's POV
Heading into the next big screen, it was still dark outside, and although I wanted to use my phone to check the time and see how my mother's doing, Xavier, Wendell and Cheyenne have been keeping me company for quite a while as well as this Royal Rally. Walking around was primarily the reason why I couldn't get a chance to do so.
I really wish to see how Blue is doing. Her and Lucas. Hopefully they got the same reactions I had.
"I still can't get over the fact that your mom would choose tennis over badminton." Xavier said to me.
"C-Come on, Xavier. We both meant it when we said it's easier to play tennis." I said.
"Wait, what happened?" Wendell asked.
"So we had a debate one night. It was me and Lucas. We argued which would be the easiest sport to learn. Lucas said tennis. I said badminton. Kaze is gonna side with Lucas by simply saying she's good at it."
"Because, it's true. I've been an ace for a long time. Maybe you just need some lessons to understand what it is I mean." I said.
"That's what you were really debating? Just the easiest sport to learn?" Cheyenne asked.
"Yeah! I could easily bet on my whole body and soul that badminton is just so easy. And I don't know if you know this, but I tried badminton one time and it was easy as if I knew what one plus one is."
"One time? What about two or three times? Have you ever faced a real opponent?" I asked.
…
…
…
"I, uhh… I only ever faced my little sister." Xavier said with a sweatdrop.
"Your sister? And not a real opponent?"
"She wanted this! She couldn't stop dragging me to come play with her. And she was really frustrated. But I wanted my peace so I just 11-0'd her."
"Why couldn't you at least go easy on her?" Wendell asked.
"'Cuz I didn't want to. I had other things to do." Xavier said.
"Wow. I guess siding with Lucas was the right decision." I whispered with a sweatdrop.
"You should at least show some heart, Xavier." Cheyenne said with a sweatdrop.
"We still love each other, but Naomi is still one of the most annoying little sisters I've had in my entire life. She just won't let a cool dude like me breathe for once."
"Is that her name?" I asked Xavier.
"Yeah. Naomi's mature and kind to others, but around me, she makes my life a "living hell" with the amount of times she slams the door open, steps on me or punches me when I'm asleep just to get me to wake up or spots me really good when I'm going through her stuff. It just flat-out pisses me off."
"Because you're the bad brother. That's why." Cheyenne said.
"You know what, I'ma have Kaze scold you more…"
"No no no, I don't want to do it anymore. Just don't bring it up." I said, looking exasperated a little bit.
"W-Why? You've been comfortable the first time you did it." Xavier said.
"I know, but I just want to have a good time, even though the day is nearly over."
…
…
"Ok, fine. But I still stand on what I said about badminton being the easier sport. You can keep complaining, but it's not gonna make me change my answer."
"I'm not complaining. I'm just telling you how it is. I mean, I tried badminton before and it wasn't too bad. I just don't pay attention to it a lot."
"*giggle* Tried? More like you didn't want to." Xavier said with a cheeky grin.
He really wants me to hurt him again.
"I was in 6th Grade attempting it. It was almost similar to tennis. I think every school wants to see you do some Physical Education. And what they give you is what they give you."
"Well, all it is is just… the teachers just want you to work on moving your body by doing physical activities. Just so that you can be physically fit whether you like it or not."
"Wait, how do you know that stuff?" Xavier asked Cheyenne.
"I took Physical Education classes as well. Every student's gotta take Physical Education classes so they can understand how to get their bodies in shape." Cheyenne said.
"It's kinda true actually." Wendell said. "I've seen lots of 15-16 year olds with strong bodies and taller height. Must've been because either A: They're trying their best to learn how to defend themselves, or B: They're trying to chase their dream careers by just meeting the requirements of their careers."
"Yeah, no disagreement there." I said. "If I wasn't so keen with books, the next option for me was to play tennis. I would be a basketball player since I considered it, but being an individual star seems to be perfect for me. Hence why I have a very high interest in tennis. Not to mention, It's a perfect sport for concentration."
"Wow, you sure are hoping for high potential." Cheyenne said with a smile.
"Yeah. I wish to be really successful." I said to her.
"I want to see what others think after this. Hopefully they side with me because if they don't, oh boy…" Xavier said with a facepalm.
I'm pretty sure he doesn't try at least badminton or tennis. He must be sugarcoating it at this rate.
"Is this next walk to the big screen really that long? We've been walking for several minutes now." Cheyenne asked.
"Nuh-Uh. It's up ahead." Wendell said. "I don't know how long the finish line is though since this event is brand-new."
"I have a feeling this race is still tight." I said.
"Well… Candace is who we all are rooting for after all. So at some point she should still be on top." Xavier said.
"Yeah, I am rooting for her, but I'm concerned that this is still going to be tight. Candace was struggling in Rounds 2 and 4, and now I'm worried what's gonna happen."
"Well, Candace is doing a great job capitalizing individually, so there should be no problems being ahead." Cheyenne said.
"Yup. What Cheyenne said. So you gotta at least put faith in her." Xavier said.
…
"Well… it is true… I-I'll put a little more faith in her." I said.
"That's what I like to hear!" Xavier shouted with a grin.
Hopefully this big screen is good news.
After walking a few more feet, We have now arrived at the second big screen and as soon as we took a first glimpse at the screen, We were all shocked at how big the lead was and it was all music to Xavier and Wendell's ears.
"Look at that! I told you! I told you she was going to be on top at some point!" Xavier shouted. "I told you this was going to be happening! Gemma is choking. I knew she would be choking."
I-Is Gemma having a hard time?! Why is that lead so big?! Did she have a penalty or something?!
"It's gonna take a miracle for Gemma to catch up now. Until then, It's Candace all the way." Wendell said.
"I don't know what the hell Gemma is doing, but… it's gonna be hard to catch up now." Cheyenne said, looking speechless.
"Welp… Lucas better have his money ready." Xavier said with a smirk.
Too bad, Lucas…
Candace's Super Quick POV
"Well, that was something." I said to myself after getting through that weird maze.
*BELL CHIME*
"Checkpoint!" The woman said on the mic as I made it to the second running section of the event.
I hope I'm first because if this goes south, I'm gonna be very freaking heated.
I took off the racing helmet I had on, placed it to the side, and was walking towards the next stop sign that was ahead. I was waiting for the stop sign to move aside so that I could take action in the fourth section of the event.
I hope this next running session does not have obstacles. I just wish to put this blonde rascal to sleep already.
After waiting for a few seconds, the stop sign moved aside and I was off and running, but I was picking up the pace so that things don't get worse from here.
I'm gonna have to take this running session seriously now.
Gemma's Super Quick POV
"Just a few more to go." I said to myself as I was still on this insane slalom track, trying to avoid the obstacles.
While I was figuring this out, I heard that Candace easily made it to the fourth section of the race which shocked me because that slalom wasn't supposed to be easy but she excelled it like it was nothing. But it didn't stop me from staying focused on the race.
I'm in a very big hole. I gotta speed things up.
There were a few more corners to go and I was doing my best to squeeze through the cones and tires as quickly as possible. The first corner was a little tricky since it was hard to align my kart while the rest of the way was just me making it look easy. Now after this third section, I really have a lot of ground to make up.
I know this fourth section is gonna cost me a lot of stamina, but it needs to be done. I gotta go all the way.
Candace's Super Quick POV
After running a few more miles, I haven't heard a single checkpoint sound nor seen Gemma in my sight. I'm somewhere in the middle because Gemma doesn't give up and she would absolutely blow by me right now.
At least she's not close to me, so that's a good thing.
While I was running the next few miles, what was approaching me was a downhill trail and it was not very steep at all.
Damn… I guess this does get difficult moving forward.
…
…
No matter. I still need to grin and bear it. No matter what happens next.
Blue's POV
All of us were in shock a few minutes after we arrived at the second big screen and it was not surprising news to see what was going on. It even shocked Emily and Juniper because they were the ones not expecting this much of an result.
"This is crazy. I still don't get why Candace made the fourth session so easily." Juniper said, looking exasperated.
"This is really embarrassing. If Gemma loses, I don't know how bad I would feel for her." Emily said, looking speechless.
I told you I had concerns for Gemma losing this whole game.
"You still have to believe. You don't know whether or not Gemma is gonna lose this whole thing." Aiden said.
"I know, but this is a big lead. I'm feeling doubtful that she's gonna win now."
"That's why I said don't get too ahead of yourself. You just went with the flow." Lucas said with a sweatdrop.
"Right. We all want to see if Gemma can properly get the job done rather than having to say that she can defeat Candace." I said.
"Which leads to my point. It's not the end of the world. Maybe Gemma can come back but we don't know yet. That's why we gotta believe." Aiden said.
"I know that, but my point is we can't just say this final event is a simple win for Gemma. We all gotta watch so that we don't jinx everything. This is the final event so we gotta make sure we keep silent on this."
"You sure like to play it safe, huh?" Juniper asked.
"Well, I have to. I don't like taking big risks because it's not worth it."
"Well… I don't like taking big risks either." Emily said with a sweatdrop.
"Either way, I hope Gemma turns this around. Look, she's almost done with this hard-ass maze or whatever." Juniper said as she was paying attention to the big screen.
I don't know how they put a lot of cones and tires on the track. That's not fair.
"She still has a long way to go. I hope this doesn't stay that way." Lucas said.
I hope so though. Candace can be a toughie to deal with.
Kaze's POV
"She's going downhill for this one? That's the only obstacle there is in the running session?" Xavier asked.
"I'm not sure that's the only obstacle there is." Cheyenne said with a sweatdrop.
"But I wonder what's taking Gemma so long?" I asked, looking concerned.
*BELL CHIME*
"Checkpoint!" The woman said on the mic as Gemma finally made it to the third checkpoint.
"Oh. Took her long enough." I said.
"Hey, we're all Candace stans so we can't be talking about that blondie." Xavier said while looking at me.
"I know, I know."
But I'm still worried about Gemma. She would normally keep this event close but it must've been something that was holding her back.
"That aside, I'm surprised it's just downhill running. I was hoping for obstacles on this track as well." Xavier said.
"Well, we needed that. There's no way Gemma's gonna catch up no matter how fast she runs." Wendell said.
"To do that, Candace's gotta pick up the pace. Gemma's gonna be catching up and this will be all square again if she doesn't." Cheyenne said.
"Yeah. Gemma's fast so she's gotta use her legs." I said. "It's probable that heading into the final two sections, it's going to be very difficult."
I still expect this race to be very tight.
"That's fine. Candace can get through that just like she did in the previous racing session." Xavier said.
…
…
"Well… if you say so."
He's been so confident in Candace the whole Royal Rally. At this point, some fans are going to be very annoyed at what's happening.
"I just can't wait for the big finish. Hopefully Lucas has his wallet because if Candace wins, I don't want to hear any complaints from him." Xavier said.
"You two just love to bet over everything." Cheyenne said with a sweatdrop.
"Hey, everything that he says is true, I tend to disagree. It's not all of them, but it's most of them, whether it's games, books, stories, whatever. I get most of them right and I win money easily."
"But you two are still friends. You don't think this is hurting your relationship with him?" I asked.
"No! No, it's not like that. We're friends. We just find ways to not let things get out of hand. It would hurt me to unfriend him and all since we've known each other when we were little. It was just… how it is."
"Yeah, but I have a strong feeling that you two are gonna unfriend each other at some point due to this."
"It's not gonna happen. Come on, Kaze. Lucas would never harm me due to betting on things that we disagree upon. It's just entertainment. That's what we both like. You can definitely ask him. I swear he'll say the same thing."
"Well… I guess."
But I remember that the tennis and badminton argument was more of a heated debate. Maybe Lucas was the one who brought it up in the first place. I wonder why though.
…
Oh wait, let me rephrase that. He asked which was the easier sport. I wonder why he wants to know that though. I'll ask him later.
…
Oh, but I don't have his phone number. Nor do I have Amitie and Raffina's phone number. I forgot to do that on my way out of Primp Town.
…
No matter. My situation is really urgent so it's not like I should spend time with them much longer.
Gemma's Super Quick POV
After the stop sign moved aside, I was off and running as I was attempting to make a comeback after a difficult third section. And I was running faster so that things don't get worse from here.
But it was still concerning to me because this whole race was supposed to be difficult but I didn't know the two paths on the racing sessions were much like a guessing game due to Candace making her path look so easy. I may be wrong but that's what I thought it was.
After a few more miles of running, I noticed that there was a downhill trail in my direction which was odd because I thought this running session was going to be difficult.
J-Just downhill? I thought there were obstacles in this.
…
…
…
Eh… I'm in a dire situation, so I'll take it.
I went along the downhill trail and resumed my comeback. I didn't want to waste time not making the deficit worse than it was before. I was still hopeful to catch up to Candace after all since running is my forte after all.
Candace's Super Quick POV
Alright. I guess that was something. Now it's time for the final stretch.
*BELL CHIME*
"Checkpoint!" I heard the woman speak on the microphone for the fourth time at this event.
As I was on my way to the go-karts, this was my final racing session as I was trying to stay calm and focused as I didn't want to let the anger and anxiety distract me from defending what I have always defended ever since I've made my appearance on this big stage. My heart was beating a little fast, but I'm trying to stay engaged in these final two sections. And that blonde rascal's gonna be gone for good when I'm done with her. But I'm trying to make sure that happens by beating her.
…
I-It's not even a rivalry at this point. I'm just way better than her at these sorts of things.
I just wish she wouldn't cheat at the last second. I'm too good to be losing to her in case she didn't know.
Kaze's POV
"Four down, two to go. Look at this. Just all by herself. No one else is around. She makes things really easy." Xavier said.
"I wonder how the next track is gonna be set up. It's probable that it's going to be a hard one." Wendell said.
"Nah nah, she's going to ace this. I have lots of confidence in her abilities."
"That's clever, coming from a person that she dislikes very easily." Cheyenne said while having a smug on her face.
"Yeah sure. I'll make sure to tell her that you hate her too." Xavier said.
"Hmph!"
"I can tell your arguments are gonna last more than 30 seconds." I said with a sweatdrop.
"I mean, we've had a history of them. I bet Cheyenne could tell you all of them."
"No I'm not! Your annoying ass is the reason why we go back and forth! You and Wendell argue too, not to mention!" Cheyenne shouted.
"We argue sometimes. It's just about gaming and other sorts of stuff." Xavier said.
""Other sorts of stuff" is an understatement, you know." Wendell said, with a suspicious look on his face.
"Ok, explain understatement."
"Alright, you want me to explain? Let me google it…"
"No, don't pull out your phone! Explain it without the phone!"
"Hush! I know everything and you don't! I'm a human dictionary!"
"No you aren't! That's a damn lie!"
"Yes I do! Now hush! I'm trying to search it up right now!"
"I swear, you are a fraud! The craziest fraud in the world!"
"Lalalalala! Don't want to hear it! Finding the word right now!"
At least this is a change of scenery for once.
I was now looking up in the sky to see that it was really nighttime according to it. Aside from Xavier, the Royal Rally, and everything else, I was thinking to myself that I couldn't believe that my big adventure to find the other stones was coming in a few days. And I'm going to be using lunar magic for the very first time even though I used it back in Hyperdrive City. My future is still bright and I'm going to be experiencing a whole lot of things during my adventure. I already know it's really difficult, but I love magic so I have all of the courage. Hell, I have Blue on my side so it makes things very smooth. Once I get a chance to get to recruit Candace and Gemma… and whoever else I could find, us, along with my friends Scarlett, Darius, Alexis, Zack and Kris, are going to be an elite group. We're inexperienced, yes, but we can do anything if we can stay focused and trust each other.
Yeah. I would love intelligent and strong people on my side.
"I'm so tired right now." Cheyenne said while rubbing her eyes.
"Yeah, it really has been a long day. At least these events were enjoyable. Some of them were shocking to be quite honest." I said.
"Well… I'm glad you think that. *sigh* Hopefully my kittens are ok."
"Oh? You have cats?" I asked.
"Yes. I have two of them currently."
Wow… I guess someone else likes cats too.
"Y-You like cats too?" Cheyenne asked me.
"Yes. They're the only animals I like. Unfortunately, I don't really have one at the current moment."
"Oh. That's a bummer I guess. I never thought you would be more into cats than myself."
"Well… I-I just thought of them as cute. They're just quiet, that's all."
"That's the only thing you think of them?" Cheyenne asked with a sweatdrop.
"Y-Yeah. There's other things that I love to browse more than just books."
"T-True. I'm just curious that you said that they're quiet. That's all."
*BELL CHIME*
"Checkpoint!" The woman said on the mic as Gemma made her way to the fifth section of the race.
"Well… I guess it didn't take Gemma long enough." I said.
"She really has fast legs, don't you think?" Cheyenne asked.
"Knowing her, she really is a special girl. Not to offend Candace or anything."
"I still can't believe you really like both of them. I mean it's nice that you do like both, but it's still shocking at a time like this." Cheyenne said.
"It's what I do. Why couldn't I have friends?"
"No, I'm not saying you can't have friends. It's just… imagine if you say to others that you are a fan of both."
…
…
…
"W-Well…"
"Alright, ladies and gentlemen! Candace and Gemma have reached the fifth section of the race, so you all will now walk to the final big screen of this race! The area will be large so brace yourselves for this big moment! Now, if everyone would walk to the final big screen! You might see the contestants at the end!"
"This is it! The last big screen! I got my wallet right here along with my money! I'm super prepared!" Xavier said as he brought in his wallet.
"Alright. We get it. But I don't know if the others are gonna show up at this point. We just saw them at the tug-of-war. I'm not sure if we'll be able to see them again in this event." Cheyenne said.
"You don't know that. That's why we're going to that last big screen right now. Lucas is going to be eating his words when Candace wins this whole thing."
"Xavier… You're really going to jinx it." I whispered, looking concerned now since he keeps bringing up Candace.
He's really going to infuriate everybody with him saying Candace is going to win this whole thing. He really has to quit it already.
Candace's Super Quick POV
A few miles after I started my final racing session, there were so many obstacles in the way as well as the track going uphill. I was doing my best to avoid them all as well as picking up the pace.
Ugh. Too many obstacles in the way. I knew this was going to be difficult at some point.
…
…
No! Stay focused, Candace. You came this far. You can't give up now. Believe in yourself.
I went back into serious mode as I was continuing to push the pace after concerns about this track being more difficult.
Since I am the defending champion after all, I'm not supposed to care about whether or not there are obstacles in my way. All I ever care about is just getting the job done."
I'm almost about to reach the top so I have to be prepared for what's coming downhill.
Gemma's Super Quick POV
After waiting for the stop sign to move over, I was now in the last kart racing my way towards the final checkpoint, hoping to overcome Candace along the way.
This is going to be really hard. Candace might have a hard time too, but she might be doing so better than I am at the moment. But I'm not going to let it impact my performance. I must keep going.
As I was moving forward, there were a lot of obstacles in the way which were similar to the ones in the last racing session along with an uphill trail. And moments after I was preparing for another big difficulty of a session, I noticed that someone was about to reach the top of the hill, and it caught me by surprise.
That's Candace?! So she did survive that insane slalom! Or did she take a different route? I couldn't tell because I was focused on doing what I needed to do.
…
…
…
Well… she'll be surprised when she sees me. It's supposed to be competitive after all.
Kaze's POV
After such chaos in the final moments of us hanging out at the second checkpoint for us fans, we were now walking to the final big screen of the night. And while we were walking, I was even more worried than I was before due to Xavier's topic about Candace. I tried my best to suggest what he should not do, but since he won't stop, I decided to let it go for the remainder of the event.
Meanwhile, I took a quick peek at my phone to see if my mother had texted me or anything. And when I was scrolling through, there were no new text messages from my mother, which tells me she's not worried about me.
Hopefully one of us could check on each other, but this Royal Rally has been entertaining so far, so I'll pay no mind to it.
…
Hopefully this doesn't bug her that I'm not receiving her text messages. My friends are keeping me company so she might not have any problems with what I'm doing currently.
…
Let me check on Blue. Hopefully she's not bored.
I went through the messages of Blue and texted her this…
"Are you ok, Blue?"
Hopefully she responds.
Blue's POV
*BZZZT*
I heard my phone buzzing while we were walking to the final big screen and I haven't heard my phone buzz ever since we got here.
Well that's new. I haven't gotten a single notification on my phone ever since I got here.
I pulled out my phone, turned it on and went through my messages to see that Kaze has responded to me.
It's Kaze.
"Are you ok, Blue?" She responded.
"Yes. I'm ok? What's up?" I responded back.
*BZZZT*
"Nothing. I'm just checking to see if you're bored."
"Oh no. I'm not bored. Thanks for checking on me. How's the Royal Rally? Are you having fun?"
*BZZZT*
"It's been quite interesting so far. Xavier's kept me company so far, although he's nearly jinxing everything so far."
Typical Xavier. Always ruining the key moments.
"Usually that's what he sometimes does. I would normally tell him to stop, but it's just how he is I guess."
*BZZZT*
"I guess I gotta let it go for the night, huh?"
"I'll leave it up to you. I would recommend it, but I can't control what you do."
*BZZZT*
"Alright. I guess I'll let him be him. Ok, I'll see you after the Royal Rally."
"Same here. I'll see you after."
It's great that she's checking on me. I was getting super tired from all the activities today. Hopefully tomorrow me or Kaze can find someone to recruit for our adventure.
Kaze's POV
Ok. Blue's alright. She's lucky she's talking to her friends that are not Xavier though. Still a pain.
Either way, I'm really having a great time.
"I really hope this last section isn't a set-up." Cheyenne said, looking concerned.
"Huh? Why's that?" I asked.
"Because now I'm growing concerned that ever since we've been walking around to watch what's going on with Candace and Gemma, I have a feeling that we might not be able to see them in-person again and instead just watch the big screens. It'll clearly be a shame if that's possible because we came to see them in-person."
"Oh. Well yeah, it would be a shame, but there's a chance. This is new so we can't tell whether or not we could see them in-person."
"Are you that confident it's gonna happen?"
"Well, it's like a guessing game now so I have to be confident in what I say despite this being the last section." I said.
"You sure are something else." Cheyenne said with a sweatdrop.
"We're almost here, you two! This is it!" Xavier said to us as he noticed something that was up ahead.
What the two of us saw was a sign that said "Final Big Screen Ahead!". We were now nearing the end of the long walk as we were preparing for the big finish.
Oh boy. I wonder how thrilling this will be.
Candace's Super Quick POV
"Finally I've got through that. Now for the down…" As soon as I was about to finish that sentence, my eyes lit up like crazy as I was preparing for more craziness in this track.
Approaching downhill were 3 inflatable sweepers on the track with the middle moving counter-clockwise and the others moving clockwise along with scattered cones on the sides of the road. And to me, it was almost like it was impossible to get by.
"You gotta be kidding me…" I whispered while facepalming, not paying attention to the road.
After a few seconds, I regained my focus and picked which direction I could take so I could get past this hellhole of a section. Well… I wouldn't say hellhole of a section because it was expected to be difficult.
But then out of the blue…
"*gasp* Wait! Damn it! Why did I go this direction?!" I shouted as I realized I took the wrong direction as I was about to get hit by both sweepers moving towards my direction. "Gah! Let me brake!"
I braked as hard I could to avoid getting hit by the sweepers. They were inching towards me so I had to reverse as quickly as I could so I couldn't get hit.
"Come on! Come on! Come on! There we go! Phew!" I was able to get out of the direction I was in and started to quickly align my car so I could move towards the other direction of this inflatable sweeper course.
I should've paid attention right there.
Gemma's Super Quick POV
I was now driving to the top of the hill after getting through a lot of obstacles. And to me, I haven't had any problems with getting through. It was just me being aware of what's ahead of me and picking up the pace.
"Alright. One step closer to making that comeback. Let's see what's next." I said to myself as I was reaching towards the top.
As soon as I said that, I was now at the top, and reaching downhill, Candace was right there ahead, trying to get by these sweeper thingies. There were two of them moving counter-clockwise and one of them moving clockwise. It felt so difficult since there were cones ahead, but to me…
Oh… I know how this works. I've seen stuff like this before.
Candace's Super Quick POV
Ok, let me stay on the left side of the sweeper.
I went ahead and moved to the left side of the sweeper that was about to push me forward. It was still insane that I wasn't paying attention to what I was doing. Normally, I would be ok with difficult challenges, but this one I wasn't too ok with. It looked really difficult for me and I felt like I couldn't figure this out with ease.
Hopefully this blonde rascal isn't here. I don't know where the hell she is but I'm not gonna give up that title to her. No way in hell that's happening.
A few seconds after moving towards the left side, I found an opening and pressed the gas hard. I was able to get past the sweepers after a horrible mistake on the first try.
I hope this is the end.
Gemma's Super Quick POV
"I guess this should be really easy."
I went to the left side of the sweeper after reaching the sweeper course and taking the direction that felt easy for me.
Looks like I'm starting to find my groove. Although I'm still in last place.
After staying on the left side for a couple of seconds, I took the opening I found and went full speed ahead, racing towards the other end of the track, hoping for a huge comeback.
Alright, Candace. Get ready to give it your all.
Kaze's POV
"Wait? There's someone else up ahead?" Xavier asked as we were now approaching the final big screen.
"Wait a minute. I see two people wearing… shirts with Gemma on them." Wendell said.
"Tch! Well… I can't wait to see their tears when they see their girl lose." Xavier smirked.
He's really talking rude, huh?
"You guys see Gemma fans ahead?" Cheyenne asked.
"It looks like it. They got on yellow shirts right now." Wendell said.
"That must mean Lucas and Juniper are here too. That's great, because everything's at stake so… whoever wins takes all the cash. Which is me."
"I'm glad this walk is almost coming to an end. This has been such a pain." Cheyenne said with a sweatdrop.
"Imagine exercising, but being too lazy to walk around. How rich is that?"
"How is that rich?! It's literally a freaking disgrace!" Cheyenne shouted at Xavier.
"It's not a disgrace for me. I want to see my Candace Maxey winning it all."
"But you won't shut up already! It makes no difference!"
"You don't wanna at least say that to Gemma fans?" I asked Xavier.
"That was my plan. I'm Candace's supporter so I'ma keep Gemma fans in check by taunting them."
"So… that means you are gonna make enemies, right?"
"I don't care. They can get pissed off all they want. I'm still a supporter. I like who I like. And that's Candace."
"I mean, this is what the Royal Rally is really all about in terms of fanbase. Sparking heat. This rivalry has always been heated." Wendell said.
"Oh dear…"
I guess soccer is not the only sport that gets heated according to Mom.
After that strange discussion, we were now making a left and headed uphill where there were metal handrails that were so long that they were needed for protection, likely so that we either A: not let things get physical or out of hand, or B: not fall and hurt ourselves.
Along the way we've heard some massive boos from the crowd. Even I heard some threats from other people. Maybe some explicit language, not that I want to judge since I swear too. It didn't bother me. But even Xavier was taunting the Gemma fans too, especially with his wallet. I could tell by his face that he's super confident on his vote with Candace.
Oh boy… this is about to get ugly from here.
Blue's POV
"I knew this was gonna happen." Aiden said as we were walking uphill, hearing the boos from Candace and Gemma fans as we were almost towards the end of a long walk.
"True. Especially Candace fans over there." Lucas said as he was pointing at Candace fans.
"Look at Xavier, taunting over there." Juniper said as she was pointing at Xavier with his wallet in his hands.
Still taunting as always.
"He can taunt all he wants, but I will not wait to see him taunt afterwards when Gemma wins." She added.
"Hopefully that happens." Lucas whispered with a smirk.
"Wait a minute, you made a bet on Xavier?" Emily asked Juniper.
"Yeah. You didn't know? He's got his wallet out. He was too keen on picking Candace instead of Gemma." Juniper asked.
"It just never gets old. Always coming in with extreme confidence." I said with a sweatdrop.
"Don't worry, Blue. The only way to shut him up is to support Gemma. That's all that is. Aiden said this."
"I know, but I'm only saying. He can be a really big burden to Gemma fans. Like how he's doing right now."
"But we're far away from them. I don't know if they're able to see us." Emily said.
"It's ok. Because it'll get Xavier to watch the whole thing instead of taunting all night." Juniper said with a smirk.
"Wait, so you're gonna join in on the booing, Juniper?" I asked, looking shocked.
"I might. I'll see."
"You are something else." I whispered.
Gemma's Super Quick POV
*BELL CHIME*
"Checkpoint!" I heard the women say on the mic from all the way back as Candace has reached the final checkpoint of the race as my chances for one Royal Rally title are getting slimmer now.
Oh boy… the pressure is rising. Although I'm catching up, Candace is inching towards the finish line. Time for me to speed things up.
I pushed the gas pedal even harder to make the kart go even faster than it was. But the kart itself was not going much faster even when I did just that.
"Come on! Come on! Come on!" I shouted at myself as I was pushing myself to make it to the last checkpoint.
Come on, Gemma! You're a superstar! I know you have it in you! I mentally said to myself.
Candace's Super Quick POV
Alright. This is it. Last checkpoint.
I was now at the last stop sign of the race and I had a determined look on my face, ready to finish the job once and for all. There was always a reason why my fans love me doing this stuff and I was ready to continue pleasing them with all I've got.
Hopefully all my fans are watching this. They are definitely gonna see me shine brighter than the sun.
Once the stop sign moved aside, I was ready to run as fast as I could, but not until…
*BELL CHIME*
"Checkpoint!" The woman said on the mic as someone else had reached the final checkpoint.
That's Gemma behind me! And I'm in front this whole time?!
…
…
…
You know what? It doesn't matter. She's still going to lose to me. That's her own damn fault if that happens. Ohhohohoho~!
Gemma's Super Quick POV
After making it to the last checkpoint of the race, I placed my helmet to the side and started moving towards the last stop sign. The end was near and it was now or never for me to make a comeback and win my first Royal Rally title. Candace has been splendid but it was now time for me to shock the world.
Time for me to make my last push. This is my final stint against Candace. We've battled each other for a long time. I'm now ready to finish strong.
A few seconds after waiting for the stop sign to move aside, it finally moved aside and I was off and running to continue my comeback. Time was of the essence, so I was picking up speed.
Along the way, I was going through a tunnel and going up, I was turning onto a couple of right corners and to me, I was looking at the corners like they were really difficult.
Why do these corners feel so sharp?!
"Why is this area so dark?!" I heard Candace say as I could hear her voice from a mile away.
I wanna know why too.
*CRASH*
"Gah!"
I then heard something crash into Candace as I was still running to see what was going on. I was a little concerned about it too.
"What was that?!" I heard Candace ask as I was inching towards her to see what happened.
"Candace?!"
Candace's Super Quick POV
What the hell?! She's near?! I mentally said as I was trying to recover from something I tripped on.
It totally pissed me off that after I was having lots of momentum on my side, she somehow stormed back with no hesitation. And that was from me tripping over an obstacle.
You know what? Forget it. Gemma's not going to take my spot.
"Are you ok, Candace?" Gemma asked as she finally caught up to me.
I didn't answer her as I was continuing to run without question. I wasn't going to be fooled by her deceiving me just to pass me and take the lead.
I don't care what gets in my way. I'm not going to be fooled by you, of course. If only I could take my time.
A few seconds after regaining my focus, I noticed that there were hurdles ahead of me, something that I did not see.
There are hurdles in this race?! I'm not an olympic athlete! I'm a fashion– you know what, let me shut up and get this over with.
After noticing the hurdles, I went ahead and… well attempted to jump over the hurdle because…
*CRASH*
"Gah! Damn it!" I said as I barely jumped over the hurdle due to the tip of my shoe hitting the top part of the hurdle. I was still able to keep my balance, but then all of the sudden…
"Oooh. Too bad, Candace…" I heard Gemma say before overtaking me again in this race.
As soon as she did just that, I continued to push with all my might without having to hear her mouth anymore.
She's still gonna choke.
*Kaze's Super Quick POV for the remainder of the event*
Upon our arrival at the big screen, we saw that Candace was losing to Gemma, even after Candace took a big lead. It was much to the dismay of Candace fans but they were still hopeful that she was gonna win. But Gemma fans on the other hand were cheering at what's happening.
And by looking at Xavier's face, his eyes were glued to the screen, hoping for his idol to finish the job.
"Man, the pressure is rising now." Wendell said as he was looking at what was going on.
"Tell me about it." Xavier said as he was still glued to the screen.
"That's crazy how the scenery is so dark. Are they sure they can see out of that?"
"I don't know. I'm not one of them. I mean, they could make the tunnel a little brighter."
"Yeah, I wouldn't be a big fan of that if I was one of them." I said.
"Wait, hold on, magic user! I remember you saying you have dark magi…"
"SHHH! Don't tell them about that! Please!" I said to him as I panickily tried to cover his mouth as he almost told him my identity.
"You really called Kaze a magic user? She's just human." Wendell asked with a sweatdrop.
"Y-Yeah. I am just human." I said as I let go of Xavier's mouth afterwards.
I'm glad there's only one person who doesn't notice I have magic.
*Blue's Super Quick POV for the remainder of the event*
I think I can hear Xavier's voice from across the other side.
"Gemma's in the lead. Now only if she could keep this up." Juniper said as she was watching Gemma overtake Candace.
"This is the last stretch. Gemma's gotta capitalize on this one." Aiden said as he was watching as well.
"My heart's beating really fast." I said as I as well was watching Gemma gathering all the momentum.
"Your heart's beating fast? Do you feel like you're gonna have a heart attack?" Emily asked, looking concerned.
"No, no. It's just… this race is still close and we should expect a crazy finish."
"Oh… Ok, I was concerned."
"Candace was really in control for almost majority of the race, don't you think?" Lucas asked.
"She is elite after all, but there's a possibility she could finally falter. We just don't know yet." Aiden said.
"Ok, Final stretch. You guys better pray." Juniper said as she saw that Gemma reached the end of the tunnel.
Holy hell, this is going to be big.
Candace's Super Quick POV
I know's she's going to crumble once again. She's already lost.
I kept saying the same thing over and over again as I was a few feet away from reaching the end of the tunnel.
This was supposed to be the moment where Gemma falls apart once again in this Royal Rally. There were a lot of times where she had lost all momentum. Tonight was supposed to be the night where she does it again.
And right before I say that…
"Woah, Woah, Woah!"
I knew it. I knew this was gonna happen! I, Candace Maxey, don't tell a single lie!
After I kept that to myself, I made it out of the tunnel, only to see that Gemma on the floor that didn't look too slippery.
"Oooh. Too bad, Gemma…" I taunted as overtook but soon after that…
"Uh oh! Woah, Woah!"
*BUMP*
I slipped and fell after I was doing too much showboating, hurting my back in the process.
Damn it! I let my taunting get the best of me!
*Gemma's Super Quick POV*
Ok, this is my chance! I got to take it!
I recovered from the fall quickly and starting racing towards the finish line that was just so far ahead, overtaking Candace again in this race.
And my fall wasn't intentional. I just didn't know the ground was slippery.
There's the finish line. And it's so far ahead. I have to finish strong. For my fans.
"No wonder why this ground is so slippery." I said as I was trying to keep my balance from this slippery floor.
"I know you're gonna choke again!" Candace yelled from behind.
I can't let all the scorn get inside my ahead. I must push. Mom, Dad. I love you. And this win will be for you both.
*Kaze's Super Quick POV*
Goodness, there's so much anxiety on both sides. Gemma is really about to finish it.
We all were witnessing Gemma having a slight lead over Candace after Candace took the lead right back only to be given up by Gemma once again. I just didn't understand why Candace would taunt her though. Her opportunity was right there waiting for and she really let it get away from her. And the floor didn't look slippery to me, so I didn't really understand the chaotic sequence from both women.
And Xavier stood silent after noticing Candace was not in a good spot right now. I decided to just watch and see how this would all end. The pressure is rising so I didn't want to say anything right now. It's now starting to feel like the FIFA World Cup Final.
I have a feeling this IS reminiscent to the FIFA World Cup Final. Much like England vs Belgium. The one that my mom was throwing a fit about.
…
If Mom was rooting for Candace, and she loses this Royal Rally, this would've turned ugly in a flash.
…
I bet she would calm down afterwards so it's no big deal.
*Blue's Super Quick POV*
I heard a bunch of Gemma fans cheering for Gemma as she had a big lead over Candace was an epic disaster by Candace who suddenly missed a golden opportunity by taunting and slipping onto the floor.
I saw a bunch of Candace fans in shook after seeing their favorite fashionista give up the lead that she solely had.
I might feel bad for Candace fans if they watch her lose.
"Oh my god, Gemma! Keep your balance!" Juniper said as she was getting agitated by the number of times Gemma was slipping on the track.
The floor isn't that slippery, you know!
"Are they sure the floor's slippery?" Emily asked. "Because by looking at it, I'm not sure if there's anything on the track that's causing it to be slippery."
"That's my point, dude!"
Geez Louise…
*Candace's Super Quick POV*
Come on, Candace! Get your ass together! If I yell at my themselves, I should be yelling at myself! Come on, you dumbass! I mentally said to myself after I was visibly frustrated at myself for messing up my opportunity to grab a big lead once again.
I was running out of time as the finish line all the way on the other side where my fans are at. Luckily, Gemma was still slipping on the track to the point where the deficit was growing smaller and smaller.
And at that point…
"This is really slip… oh no." Gemma said as she was trying to hustle after she saw me trying to overtake her once again in this race.
Oh no you don't. I let you have that big lead. Now it's my turn.
The finish line was now a couple of yards away as we both were near each other trying to fight for glory.
And that glory's gonna fall to the hands of Candace Maxey.
*Gemma's Super Quick POV*
I'm struggling to keep my balance. This floor is getting even more slippery than it was before. This is doesn't feel like a running session.
Moments after I just said that, Candace overtakes me yet again, trying to recover from her crazy disaster that happened at the beginning of this crazy track.
Oh no… Is this really me? I guess I do choke big time and Candace is really getting the best of me.
…
…
No! I need to not say that! I need to put create some sense of urgency! This floor may be slippery, but I'm not gonna let this stop me from achieving what I really want! I mentally shouted as I stopped playing around and started being mentally focused on what I need to do.
Seconds after I said that, my balance started improving and I started to run faster than I could. Candace was almost at the finish line, but I started picking up speed.
*Blue's Super Quick POV*
There were a lot of fans in shock and awe as these two racers were almost near the finish line as the title could only be earned by one and these are really fighting for it.
"Ohh! Geez!" Emily shouted as she was shocked and surprised by what's going on.
"No way." I whispered as I was surprised too by what's going on.
My heart right now.
"These two are insane." Lucas said as he looked shocked at what's going on.
"She's in the lead!" Juniper said as she noticed that Gemma was hanging on to a small lead after giving it up once again.
And the crowd was rising once again as the pressure was sky-high. This even got me at the edge of my seat.
*Kaze's Super Quick POV*
We all were at the edge of our seat as this race has come down to the last few yards and Gemma is still hanging on to a small lead over Candace. The door is open for both racers and the pressure was through the roof. Almost as if a lot of people were about to have heart attacks.
Candace… oh boy.
"Hold on, let me record this." Cheyenne said as she pulled out her phone to try to record what was gonna happen.
As for Xavier, he stood silent the whole time these two were going neck and neck. And I don't blame him, this race is so intense and the title is awaiting for both racers but it can only be claimed by one.
"Come on, Candace…" Xavier said as he was praying for something good to happen to Candace.
My heart is beating fast. This is the final stretch.
*Gemma's Super Quick POV*
I heard a lot of fans cheering my name as I was almost towards the finish line with me potentially doing what I haven't done since I signed up for this. The big moment was right there waiting for me.
But not until…
"Woah. Woah." I took a hard stop after taking a bad step on this slippery floor. Fortunately I was able to keep my balance afterwards.
I turned around and Candace was inching towards me and I had to run as fast I could as the finish line was right there, while keeping my balance.
"Don't you dare! That title's mine!" Candace yelled as she's getting closer and closer to me.
I had to push harder and harder and inching towards the goal. And then afterwards I started to leap towards the finish line.
Please!
And once that happened I went over the finish line and then…
"GOAL! Gemma!" The woman announcer said on the mic as I heard that I was the first person to reach the finish line.
*VERY LOUD CHEERS*
I looked at the crowd and I saw my fans and were ecstaticly cheering at me for reaching the finish line. I was surprised at what I just did that I could not do for three Royal Rallies.
I… I did it. I did the impossible. I really did it!
*Candace's Super Quick POV*
I stood there in shock and disbelief after crossing the goal line and hearing that Gemma crossed the finish line first.
No way. She… beat me.
I just watched Gemma celebrate happily as I just stood there in utter disbelief knowing that I really lost a Royal Rally for the first time in my life.
…
*sigh* Damn it. I shouldn't have been too cocky at the beginning of the slippery track.
"Hey, Candace." Gemma said as she walked up to me. "That was really hard-fought. I didn't think you had this in you. You really gave me a challenge."
Tch! She really wants to congratulate me now?
"I know you were trying to be for real, and I'm glad you wanted to be special. It's just that… you never even took a chance on me. You were only trying to aim to be the best fashionista in the world. And somehow… I think it's time we respect each other from now on."
…
…
…
"Y-You really want me to do this now?" I asked as I was blushing a little.
"Gemma! It's time for your presentation!" A lady came to us and said to Gemma.
"I-I'll think about it. Just go celebrate your win." I said to Gemma.
"Thank you, Candace." Gemma said as she walked away to celebrate her title.
I hope she's happy, but maybe I'll reconsider our rivalry another time.
*Back to Kaze's POV*
"At least they didn't go at it again." Xavier whispered, still in disbelief at Candace's loss to Gemma.
"I tried to tell you not to jinx the whole race." I said with a sweatdrop.
"Yet you couldn't keep your mouth shut." Cheyenne added.
"Wh- I didn't think this was gonna happen! Gemma was literally choking multiple times! You girls saw it!" Xavier shouted.
"I know, but we didn't want you to get blamed for jinxing the entire race." I said.
"Whatever you say."
Aside from Xavier's stunned reaction, everyone of Candace's fans were stunned at what happened to her that race. It was almost like a photo finish and all of us were at the edge of our seats again, hoping for a miracle, but it was not to be. I was even stunned at what just happened, but the outcome is the outcome so it's no big deal. It really was exciting for Gemma to win her first Royal Rally event, but this loss definitely hurt Candace. She's never lost a Royal Rally and I kinda feel bad. I've never seen a loss stung her this hard.
It was nice that Gemma came up to her and talked it out. It's time that they reconsider their history of their rivalry.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, before we wrap this all up, let's turn our attention to the title presentation of our new Royal Rally champion, Gemma January!" The announcer said on the mic.
We all turned our attention to the title presentation as we were getting ready to watch Gemma receive her title once and for all. There were a slight amount of clapping and booing from the audience which was a little sudden. Probably because Candace fans have to watch Gemma get her trophy or golden sash ribbon… I can't tell because I'm obviously new to this stuff.
"Gemma… after 3 battles of disappointment, you've finally gotten over the hump." The lady said on the mic. "Candace gave you a really really REALLY tough series, but how did you manage to overcome all the obstacles this Royal Rally? What did you manage to do differently that led you to become champion?"
"It was to not skip steps." Gemma said. "I needed to take it one game at a time and not jump the gun, thinking I have already won the series. Candace was a toughie, but I give her a lot of credit for all the hard work she's put in. We've had our ups and downs as women, but for me, I just needed to focus on the task that's in front of me and not think about the criticism I've had in the past. Candace has done it to me so many times, but I've always managed to think like it's nothing. It helps me be confident."
That's great to hear. I was concerned that she can be a bit… unsettling to deal with, just like Candace.
"Did the criticism and the scorn in the past have any affect of your Royal Rally career? If so, why?"
"I wouldn't say it had any affect of my Royal Rally career. I know most of them were annoyed at me having to face off against Candace over and over again. But most of my friends that I have, helped picked me up since they strongly care about me. Their words of encouragement gave me the fuel to try again numerous times. And that's what led me to success. All I needed to do was take my time."
"Last question, Gemma. Since this is your final time facing off against Candace, what do you think will be next for you? How would you feel about Candace not being able to do this type of stuff again in the future?"
"I don't necessarily think about having to battle the opponent that I want to face. I just wanted to enjoy the experience and my friends told me that they wanted me to try it since they believe it's totally fun. But seeing Candace walk away for the final time… I'm not bothered by it. It was an intense war. We've both had our best highlights. It's kinda sad that all great things have to come to an end, but it's just life. I may not know what's next for me though. I have to think about it in the later days or the future."
So Gemma just wanted to enjoy the experience. It was Candace that started the rivalry. I see the picture.
"Congratulations, Gemma, on your first ever Royal Rally title! You have beaten Candace Maxey for the first time in these four Royal Rallies! Ladies and Gentlemen, let's give it up for Gemma January, the new Royal Rally Champion!"
There was a lot of cheering and clapping (I decided to clap) from the fans, including Gemma fans since they were voting for her. And now, the Royal Rally was all finished with Gemma being the winner. It was kinda sad for Candace to walk away with nothing, but she still had heart. It wasn't just enough to get the job done.
It was amazing to watch these two go at it. That might be something I could watch another time.
At least… that's what I think.
We were now walking back to the main entrance after… TONS of walking towards the five arenas. It was annoying to all of us, but we were all ready to go home, so we just exhausted our bodies and were getting it over with.
"She was literally right there at the finish line. No wonder why she gave it up at the end." Xavier said, still annoyed at the fact that Candace lost the last event against Gemma.
"Are you going to let it go already? She shouldn't have taunted. And you shouldn't have jinxed the whole match." Cheyenne said, getting annoyed.
"I didn't know she was going to choke like that. I was getting ready to pull out my wallet to all the Gemma fans out there."
"But most of the fans were going to go after you after what you started." I said. "Sometimes you just got to make a prediction at the start of the event and not blurt it out in-event. It would be also kinda rude."
"Well… I've seen social media say these types of things. And I just let it get in my head." Xavier said.
"You know social media is a pain in the ass, right?" Wendell asked with a sweatdrop. "They just really say anything."
"Tell me about it! I know my predictions are a thousand percent correct! But my prediction was wrong here!"
"You have social media?" I asked Xavier and Wendell.
"Yup we both do. Just Twitter and Twitch."
"Not Instagram?" Cheyenne asked.
"Hell no. I don't like that app."
"S-So what's the reason you guys are into this Royal Rally and root for Candace but don't have Instagram?!
"They don't talk about video games on Instagram." Xavier said. "All people do on there is just take cutesy and beautiful photos of themselves so that they can become popular on there."
"I'm not a big fan of that either. What we do on both Twitter and Twitch is just talk about video games. Something that we are addicted to." Wendell said.
"Wow. How insanely crazy is that?" Cheyenne said with an annoyed look.
"Hey, guys!"
We all looked behind and it was Blue, Lucas, Aiden, Juniper and Emily walking towards us.
"How was the Royal Rally? Was it fun?" Blue asked all of us.
"That's the first thing you ask, Blue? That?" Xavier asked with a sweatdrop.
"I enjoyed it. It was satisfying to see an entertaining event." I said.
"Cool. Great to hear." Juniper said. "Now, Xavier. We betted man. Where's my money?"
"Oh yeah." Lucas said. "Xavier, come on, man. You were too confident in doing this. Time to give it up."
"Look at you two, sounding really eager for my money!" Xavier said with a pissed-off look and tone as he suddenly went into his wallet and started grabbing his money. "Here! Lucky asses."
"Hey, thank you for doing business, my man." Juniper said as she happily got the money. "It's been a pleasure betting with your confident self. And I hope I do business with you again."
"Most definitely!" Lucas said with a cheeky grin.
"This is the last time they face off, so don't get too confident now. Candace will still be better than Gemma." Xavier said.
"You guys are something else." Blue whispered with a sweatdrop. "So what did you think of Gemma's speech?"
"I believe her honestly. I guess she wants to make sure that her feud with Candace ends already. They've settled their war long enough."
"Yeah. Gemma needs to be respected and loved already." Cheyenne said. "She never has the audacity to harm or threaten anyone since it would make her look bad. But she does have a lot of grit."
"I know right?!" Emily asked. "That's why she gets all my love and support. She has always been a kind soul."
"Says the person who picked Candace once." Xavier suddenly teased.
"Y-You convinced me to vote for her, damn it!" Emily said as she was blushing.
"You recruited a Gemma fan on your fan base?" I asked Xavier.
"It was getting highly annoying since she was so into Gemma that I told her to just give it up already." Xavier said.
"Why are you always in people's business?" Cheyenne asked.
"It's a habit, lady! I can do it if I want to!"
"Xavier, it's still rude." Blue said with a sweatdrop.
"You can always jump on the bandwagon if you want, Xavier." Aiden said.
"No! My idol would always be in the A+++ range!" Xavier shouted. "I'm not rooting for anybody else but Candace! She's still my number one fan! And that's that!"
"If you say so, loser." Juniper said with a smirk.
"Anyway, I'm tired as hell." Cheyenne said. "I'm about to call it a day. The whole walk has gotten me tired and I'm about to get some shuteye. I'll see you guys later."
"Ok, see you later, Cheyenne." Blue said as she said as she waved at her and saw Cheyenne taking her leave.
"Later, Cheyenne." I said.
"Yeah, I'm about to get some rest too. I had a long day. I'll see you later, everyone. I'll see you later, Kaze." Blue said.
"Ok, see you later." I said as I watched her leave.
"See ya." Everyone else said.
"Damn, a lot of people are tired?" Xavier asked.
"I mean, it's getting late, man. Everyone's gotta wash up and go to sleep." Lucas said.
"I guess that's true. Now I gotta check on Naomi. Golly!" Xavier said with a facepalm.
"And I gotta check on my Mom to see how she's settling." I said.
"Ok, you do what you gotta do I guess." Xavier said.
"Are you gonna be ok walking by yourself? Is she picking you up?" Lucas asked me.
"I'm ok walking by myself. I don't live that far."
Glad I didn't slip that up.
"Alright. I'm glad you joined forces with me, Kaze. I'm glad I got a chance to talk to you." Xavier said.
"Oh, it's no problem." I said with a small smile. "I'm just glad you guys showed me something that was fun to watch. That's all."
"I'm glad you like it. Hopefully me and/or Lucas and Blue can invite you to more stuff like this some other time."
"Thank you. I'll be taking my leave now. See you guys later." I said.
"Until next time, Kaze." Xavier said.
"See you later, Kaze." Lucas said.
I now took my leave from Xavier, Lucas and the rest of my friends as I was now finding a perfect spot to warp back home. I did get my telecator back after the title presentation so it was no problem at all.
I just couldn't wait to get back home and relax since this was an fascinating night. But… I still didn't get a chance to find someone to recruit for our very first adventure. It kinda sucks, but it's going to be very hard finding one more person who isn't Blue, Lucas or Xavier's friend. That's going to be the most difficult task moving forward.
After a few minutes of finding a quiet area, I quickly used my telecator to create a portal that leads me back home.
"Now I can finally say hello to my mother." I said as I went inside the portal as I warped myself back home.
?'s POV
"She's going in that portal. Keep an eye out for her. We don't want her out of our radar." I said to my troops.
"Rodger, boss." My troops said to me.
She can teleport, but she can't hide from me.
Author's Note: Three Parts done! I'm finally done with this stress of a three-part chapter! It took me a year to figure this whole chapter out and I have to severely apologize for the lack of production in this three-part chapter. It was just that I was really running out of ideas to the point where I just needed to hurry this all up and finish this so I can move on to the next chapter. So from now on, I'm going to be highly productive in these next few chapters so we can move on to the Mushroom Kingdom era.
This next chapter is gonna be slightly worrying so keep that in mind. And I promise not to make it 20000+ words like I did this chapter.
If you guys enjoyed this *story* of a chapter, make sure you follow/favorite/review this story, and I'll see you guys in the next chapter. PEACE OUT!