Chapter 42: A Black Shadow Over Mute City

Mute City – a perfect antithesis to a humble land like Hyrule. Colossal, industrial, strident, bright, and prosperous. Technology reign supreme, serving as the driving force for a better future. Buildings were so tall that they touched the clouds; some even hovered in the sky, suspended by anti-gravity devices, created to spite mother nature's design.

Down below, the main streets were cluttered with individuals from all walks of life. People, aliens, anthropomorphic animals, just to name a few. They went about their day, walking past rows of stores that were close together. Assortments of items on sale peeked out from the glass storefront, getting a view of the congested streets. Some stores were bordered shut – a perfect spot for graffiti artist to unleash their creative expression.

Despite it being the afternoon, the sky was filled with a light pink, painted with dashes of smoke from the chimneys. What made Mute City unique was its use of transportation: machines. They were cars that hovered above the ground (again, revolting against what mother nature set in place) Roads merely served as guides for the drivers; not a single tire track tarnished the perfect pavement.

Not only were machines efficient at making tight maneuvers, but their speed reached unpresented levels of excitement. Which was why every year, the citizens came together to watch the F-Zero Grand Prix – a racing tournament that pitted the best racers against each other. Nothing came close to the heart pounding action of witnessing racers on suspended tracks driving across corkscrews and loop-de-loops.

And tomorrow was the championship race. Excited fans couldn't wait to rise from their seats, forcing every vocal cord to tremble like leaves from a violent wind as they cheered and hollered for the victor.

Or at least, they'd love to, if the streets weren't contaminated by a toxic sense of trepidation. Over the past few days, a black shadow had been looming over the city.

And with each passing second, it was stating to eclipse the entire world in fear.

Pico had a love for violence and destruction. It brought him a morbid satisfaction that would make people's stomachs try to escape through their throats in disgust. As an assassin, he loved every moment of his job – not just for the money, but the sport. To play with his victims until their spirit shredded into hopeless dust before going in for the kill. Variety is the spice of life, he said.

He always loved being the predator. But, right now, in his current predicament, he was the one being hunted. Pico ran through the streets, pushing aside people, trying to find a feasible way to lose his pursuers. His chest burned from running so fast. He could feel his legs ache from overworking them. But this was his life on the line. Lingering for one small second was fatal.

He tried to lose them in the alleyway, knocking over trashcans that stood in his path, releasing its rotten contents from the lid. There was no one around to help him. Only the echoes from his panting kept him company. He saw another street come into view with plenty of people. Perhaps he could lose them in the crowd. He ran faster; his legs started trembling from overexertion.

Until the pursuers appeared in front of him. What are they? How did they catch up with me? Was this some demented dream? Well, I won't be a part of it. It's my job to cause agony. Pico drew his laser gun, preparing to shoot, when a fire ball hit him in the back. He kneeled onto the ground, trying to sooth the burning pain.

And that was all he could do, as the entities lunged at him with a mad desire to feast. For the first time in his life, Pico let out an earthshattering scream, before the world around him went black.

Sometime later, police officers and paramedics arrived on the scene. Police tape blocked off a small section of the street (including both sides of the alley). Emergency vehicle lights twirled and spun across the vicinity. Curious onlookers gathered around the crime scene, wanting to see every detail; it would make a great piece of gossip to pass around with their friends.

News trucks also arrived on the scene. A female news reporter stood in front of a camera, prepared to deliver information on the situation to millions of restless watchers. The reporter had brown hair, wore red glasses, a light green jacket with a white undershirt, and a long, black skirt.

She held the microphone up to her chest. "Well, tensions certainly are high for both fans and competitors of this year's upcoming F-Zero Grand Pix. As of this week, three legendary racers have been the victims of an unknown assault. Just thirty minutes ago, another racer has been found in the same position - F-Zero regular Pico. He has minor burn wounds, but is in the same comatose state that currently afflicts the other competitors. Medical officials confirm that the victims are in critical condition, and are working vigorously to treat them. The Galactic Space Federation is investigating these attacks, trying to find a suspect. Despite the organized assault on unsuspecting racers, the F-Zero Grand Prix will still commence tomorrow. Extra security measures will be taken at the arena to assure a safe, fun filled day of non-stop thrills. We'll have more updates as the day goes on. This is Nikki S. Note reporting live for Mode 7 News."

Another machine pulled up to the crime scene. Its middle was colored white; in front of it were two wings that you would normally see on an airplane. Behind the wheel of this car was Jody Summer, one of the Galactic Space Federation's (the police force of this world) finest officers, and a contender in the F-Zero races.

Jody brushed her long brown hair as she shut off the ignition to her machine. She had been briefed about the situation earlier, and was still trying to deconstruct every sentence. What she heard sounded farfetched – a tale fabricated from a delusional mind that saw the world through fun house mirrors. But this was the third case. Each one confirmed the same status.

Was there truth to the impossible? She had to find the answer. But, much to her displeasure, she didn't come alone. Sitting in the passenger's seat was John Tanaka, a mechanic who worked for the Galactic Space Federation. His build was muscular; he had short brown hair, and wore a white jumpsuit.

John was known to be a bit overprotective of Jody. And that was putting it mildly. Sometimes his 'heroics' would only make a situation worse. This may be a hint that he wants to be more than just friends (although Jody sees their relationship as 'sharing the same space with each other.').

John glanced around the vehicle's innards with a boastful grin. "Must say, Jody: your white cat is more like a tiger now that I've spruced her up."

"Really?" Jody asked, giving him an irked look. "You're patting yourself on the back now? While at a crime scene? Seems my car wasn't the only thing running slow earlier."

"Aw, come on," John said. "You haven't once complimented the stellar job I did on it."

Jody opened the glass window, and started stepping outside, looking over the machine herself. "That you did. She runs a lot better. So why don't you stay here and admire your handy work while I go do my job?"

"I can't let you go alone!" John said in a panic, fumbling to take off his seatbelt. "It's too dangerous out there! What if you're attacked?"

"For the hundredth time, John," Jody said, rolling her eyes, "I told you I can handle any situation." She gave him a sly smirk. "Or do I have to take you up Olympus Mons again?"

John slid back into his seat, having horrible flashbacks to climbing one of the largest mountains in the world. It involved stubbing his toe, surviving harsh conditions, and crying. Lots and lots of crying.

He shuddered at the unpleasant trip – something he wouldn't mind leaving out of a photo album. "No, no. That's fine. Perhaps you don't require my assistance this time. This is a normal procedure for you. I'll continue to commend my superb mechanical skills. In absolute silence."

"Good thinking." She left for the crime scene

Upon requesting to see the body, Jody was allowed entrance into the ambulance. Pico was laying on the stretcher – motionless. His green screen had become pallid. But there was something that disturbed Jody: he was still breathing. Taking a hand, she checked his pulse. Jody felt like her stomach sunk into her pelvis. This was unreal. Logic and reason had been defied. It was like staring at the undead.

"How is this possible?" Jody murmured.

Jody entered the driver's seat, and placed both hands on the wheel, staring at it while intense thoughts meandered through her mind; they were trying to find an explanation. But behind that sparkling gold door was an empty closet, with a spider web hanging from the ceiling, serving as a reminder for the grave situation these racers faced.

"How is he?" John asked.

Jody's focus never left the wheel. "Not sure. I've...never seen anything like it. The reports were true: he's alive, but is lacking a heart."

"Let's be honest," John said, scoffing. "A hitman isn't hired to deliver high fives."

"I mean literally," Jody said in a harsh tone.

John's eyes widened in astonishment. "That makes no sense. How can a person function without a heart!?"

"It's illogical, but it's happened." She slid both hands on her lap, and stared out the cockpit. "And here we are: trying to answer the impossible. You know, I never used to believe that outside forces guide our every move. Our will to persevere is what drives us. But with everything that's transpired this past week, it makes me wonder: are their powers at work we are blinded from seeing? Do they control our fate? Well, to that I say: screw that! Nothing is going to stop me from solving this case. Injustice can take any form it likes, but it will not stay dormant in this city. Not while I'm around."

John clapped his hands. "Well spoken! (Jody could've sworn his nose got darker suddenly) And, throughout this whole ordeal, I will stay right by your side."

"Oh, good," Jody said with sarcasm. "Because your mechanical background will be pertinent to this investigation."

"Oh, come on!" He flexed his muscles. "I didn't get them by solely turning a screwdriver for hours. With my help, no other F-Zero race will suffer the same fate as Pico." A terrible realization crossed his mind. "Wait a minute! The targets have all been legendary racers!"

Jody raised an eyebrow. "Your point being?" And it was at that moment that she regretted asking, because John tackled her to the bottom of the seat. "What are you—?"

"Stay down!" John jerked his head back and forth, on high alert. "They can't harm you if you're not seen!"

Jody had reached her breaking point. Anger slid down her tongue. "Tanaka, your career is in jeopardy of harm if you don't get off me!"

"But I can protect you!"

"How? By throwing wrenches at them?"

"Well, they are solid objects," John said. "It would hurt." He noticed Jody glaring at him, as if prepared to break off a specific body part (anything was fair game with her). Disappointed, he said, "Okay. I get it. Maybe my intrusion would do more harm than good."

John gets off Jody, who sits up, straightens her disheveled hair, and starts the ignition. "I think this field trip has been too much for you. Think it's time I drop you off at the office. Got stuff to do."

"Like what?" John followed her conversation, not even daring to offer his 'protection' again.

"The championship belt for this year's race is being brought to the stadium in a few hours," Jody said. "With all the hullabaloo going on, security is gonna need an extra set of hands. That's where I come in.

"Oh, so you can take the trophy while no one's looking," John said in a joking tone.

Jody managed a small smirk. "Huh. That actually amused me. Guess it was worth bringing you here."

"For that one little joke? Oh, you flatter me," John said. "But I get it. You can handle this. Just be careful out there. You're the symbol of the entire squad, inspiring strength in all of us. We don't want to lose that strength."

Jody sensed the sincerity in voice. She appreciated the gesture. Despite John's infatuation with her, he did care for her well-being. Along with the rest of her crew. She was part of a stalwart team, and would be saddened to see her comrades fall in the line of duty. They felt the same way, too. Being a part of the Galactic Federation was her livelihood; to Jody, everyone there was her family.

"Thanks." Jody prepared to hit the gas when a random thought waved a red flag in front of her. She started to become worried, and glanced out the right side of her vehicle.

"Are you okay?" John asked.

Jody regained her focus. "Y-Yeah. Still a lot to take in, you know?"

But she was concerned for someone important – a person she respected for his courage, strength, and driving ability. Over the years, she formed a close friendship with him. And despite how secretive this person was, Jody could tell she was one of the few people he trusted. Right now, he was out there by himself, just as mystified about these strange attacks. Her heart would wane into a solemn speck of dust.

Cap, wherever you are, please be safe.

Sora felt like a catapult being loaded as he leaned his neck back in awe. He had never been to a city before. His island had a small, humble town beyond the beach. Moderate in length, but you didn't feel lost traversing the streets. Here? They seemed endless – not a dead end in sight. It was also clamorous; sounds of cars beeping and people talking contributed to the restless atmosphere.

Sora watched as plenty of machines hovered overhead like a flock of seagulls, coated in various bright colors. This world brought the future to the present. Hundreds of inquires pounded on Sora's head like a hailstorm. He wanted to see every square inch of this city (if that was even feasible), visit shops, restaurants, and talk to the people.

And there weren't just humans wandering the endless streets: mixed in the crowd were humanoid creatures of various shapes and sizes. Together, they formed the nerve cells for this city.

Sora and his friends were walking down a street, surprised by how scarce it appeared. Only a handful of people were in the vicinity. They had a hunch that certain creatures known for their insatiable appetite of hearts were responsible for the inactivity.

While being mindful of their surroundings, Sora still took the time to gander at this propitious metropolis. "Can't believe how futuristic everything looks! Amazing!"

"It's interesting how some worlds are more progressive than others," Luigi said, glancing up from the 3DS. "Isabelle must be having a field day writing all of this down."

Yoshi was somewhat disappointed. "Aw, me not sure me like this world, then. Doesn't food come in little, tiny pills in future? That no fun."

"But you eat things in one gulp," Sora said, with a slight tilt of his head.

"Sora, it the principle of the thing," Yoshi said, patting the boy's arm. "One day you understand."

"He makes less sense with each passing day," Luigi said, whispering in Sora's ears.

Sora rolled his eyes with an amused smile. "So, how close to the Star Spirit?"

"Believe it or not," Luigi said, shifting his focus back to the 3DS, "we're close."

"Well, I'll be!" Sora said, delighted. "That's a first for us!"

Luigi had an excited gleam in his eyes. "Best of all, it's not in some overblown evil lair. Now, as long as we don't partake in any annoying diversions—"

"Gang way!" an older male voice said in a hurry.

Everyone looked ahead to see an elderly gentleman hobbling towards them with a cane. He had a long white beard, hair, thick eyebrows, and a moustache. The man wore a heavy brown jacket, green gloves, brown pants, and red knee-high boots with laces. He huffed and puffed his way past people, pushing them aside. There was panic scribbled with uneven lines on his face.

"Privileged old man coming through!" the man shouted. "They're going to get me!"

Before the man could take another step, the laws of old age slammed a gavel against his knee, causing it to weaken from a sudden surge of pain. He leaned over, grasping his kneecap, trying to sooth it. No one else around batted an eye at him; they just kept walking as if he were a minor distraction.

But Sora's helpful nature couldn't ignore the call; he hurried over to assist. While Luigi agreed that it'd be contemptible to leave that man alone, he was frustrated that their process had been halted yet again. He turned to a wall and slammed his fist against it.

"Every! Single! Time!" Luigi said, his words in sync with each slam.

"Poor Luigi," Yoshi said, placing a sympathetic arm around him. Luigi lowered his head, like a dejected child that didn't get picked for a baseball game. "Want to get some lasagna later? It make you feel better."

Luigi looked at Yoshi, pushing his lower lip outwards; he responded with a silent nod.

"Who a little guy?" Yoshi said.

Sora helped the man to his feet, all the while enduring the strong sense of alcohol from the man's breath. He thought his nose hairs were going to burst into flames any second. Fighting through the smell, Sora asked, "Easy, mister. You alright?"

"I wish that were the case," the man said, shaking his head. troubled. "Those monsters are going to tear me up, I tell ya! My life has just started! Ninety-eight years old is no way for a man to go!"

"It's okay," Sora said in a calm, assuring voice. "Maybe we can help. What monsters?"

The man exhaled, calming the anxious stream circulating through his body. "The monsters that have been picking off us racers one by one."

"You're a racer?" Sora asked with an air of intrigue.

The man adjusted his collar, fought against his brittle bones, and stood upright. "That's right, son. Never heard of me? Don't feel ashamed. You youngins weren't around during my glory days. Names Silver Neelsen – one of the most prolific contenders in the F-Zero racers. No one has done it longer. Lately, someone – or something – has been offing many legendary racers." He darted his eyes back and forth in concern. "Meaning I must be next."

The group heard a loud male voice burst out into laughter. They turned to see an anthropomorphic lizard creature stroll by them. He wore silver armor and bottom wear that was like swim briefs.

"Legendary?" the lizard asked in disbelief. "Ha! The old twig has barely passed the first lap. Wouldn't even qualify as an hors d'oeuvre for me."

Silver waved his cane in anger. "Shut your scaly maw, Rex! I've been in more races than you can count on all six of your fingers! Back in my day, we had to race using wheels! Wheels! You'll never understand the back problems we had to endure from bumpy roads!"

"Why funny-looking Yoshi walking around in underwear?" Yoshi asked as he watched the lizard leave. "Doesn't he understand that no pants is the best way to go? Makes the day start faster."

Luigi just stared at Yoshi. "I think other people might have conflicting thoughts on your lifestyle choice."

"Erm, right," Sora said, trying to forget this trivial discussion even started. "So about these monsters.

"Ah, yes. Never seen creatures quite like them," Silver said. "Their skin's black as night. Only thing that keeps them from completely blending into the night are those yellow eyes. Saw 'em myself! But does anyone believe me? Nooooo! They just keep telling me that 'it's the happy sauce talkin''Ugh! Does it look like my dentures are on full display here? They're real, I tell ya!"

Sora eyed his friends, who responded with a nod. That was incontrovertible proof that the Heartless were causing problems here. And, if they didn't find both the Star Spirit and the keyhole, not one soul would step on this city's pavement ever again.

"I have a strong hunch on what they are," Sora said. His eyes sizzled with confidence. "Leave it to us. We'll rid this place of them."

Silver was surprised. "Wait, you've seen them before!? I'm not losing what little marbles I have left!?" Sora nodded. "Well, I'll be a rooster in a hen house – you actually believe me! And you'll take care them, too!"

He shook Sora's hand. Thank goodness he was wearing gloves; Sora didn't want to know what Silver's hands had been rummaging through.

"Such a nice boy!" Silver said, overjoyed. "Not like those snot nosed kids who are focused on their hybrid hoverboard/video game systems." He placed a hand in his coat pocket, and pulled out something. "Here. Take this as thanks."

What Silver handed Sora was invaluable. He would treasure this item forever, keeping it close like a child. It would be integral to his adventure. Years from now, he would reminisce about how much of an impact it had on his life.

It was a piece of paper.

"This paper is one of a kind – in that I stole from a back alley during a fight." Silver's smile was genuine; he believed that his gift was thoughtful. "Isn't that exciting?"

Sora blinked at the paper. "Sure thing." But upon looking at it further, his eyes lit up in shock. It was another torn piece. "Well, it will be useful to us, that's for sure."

"Glad to hear!" Silver said with a modest smile. "Now, get going and take care of those monsters! My entire life is in your hands!"

With slow steps, he departed for parts unknown. They watched with blank expressions as he made his way to the corner; the sounds of his cane hitting the sidewalk grew fainter.

Once he was out of sight, Sora spun around to face the others, baffled over the past few minutes they've wasted. "Well…he was certainly memorable."

"Down to earth kind of guy," Luigi said, sarcastic. "Which means I'd rather be way up in the Labo Ship, away from any more of them. Let's keep moving before another one invites us to compete in a dumpster diving competition."

"Still, what do the Heartless want with race car drivers?" Sora asked, crossing his arms in thought.

Luigi scratched his moustache. "Dunno. You know Heartless don't plan out their victims. Someone is obviously controlling them. Everyone be careful. We might end up getting targeted by whoever it is."

Continuing onward, the group followed the Star Spirit's signal to an industrial park. Once again, life was scarce. Some people were around, unloading giant crates from vehicles, but it was quiet. Many establishments were closed, indicated by the black, soulless eyes that manifested as windows. Only the spirits of hard work and labor lingered within the buildings' confinements.

Luigi was starting to miss the idea of rescuing a Star Spirit in an overblown layer. Least they could foresee the forthcoming danger.

They moved forward with vigilance fastened around their waists, passing by closed buildings, or abandoned ones lost to time, riddled with graffiti, rusted walls, and smashed windows. Upon turning a corner, the group was startled by the sudden sound of uproarious, male laughter. Good, they weren't alone.

Although Luigi felt uneasy because the laughter sounded gruff and coarse; it didn't belong to a choir group, that's for sure. And they wouldn't extend a warm welcome with gumdrops and ice cream (as much as Yoshi wished with every lining in his stomach). Ahead of them, they saw the sideview of an abandoned garage, forever branded as a canvas by more graffiti artist.

Machines were parked to the right of the garage, formed in a circle; they were of various shapes, sizes, and colors. One, however, sizzled with a hot pink color: it was a small machine with a singular fin. Yellow fire was painted on the backside. On the side was the '05.' As the group approached the garage, the laughter grew louder; interspersed between it was incoherent chatter, and what sounded like people fighting with each other.

In Yoshi's innocent mind, he thought the affair was a lot more lighthearted. "Ooh, is someone having a party?"

A man flew out of the nearby window, landing face first on the cracked pavement. He wore a leather jacket, tight blue jeans, and had a mohawk, drawing suspicion that a street gang had taken shelter in the garage.

"Yeah," Luigi said, reeling back in apprehension. "I'd hate to see what they do to the guest of honor. Good think we're not invited."

Sora glanced at the 3DS, and then gestured towards the window "But the signal is coming from in there."

"Well, that's just your opinion," Luigi said. "And I respectively disagree with it."

Sora frowned at him.

"Can't I delay the inevitable for a little bit?" Luigi said, slumping his shoulders, dispirited. "Is that too much to ask for?"

Sora gives him a light push forward. "Yep. It'll be fine. I promise you won't end up like that guy."

As Yoshi passed by the unconscious man, he said, "Must be nap time." He gave a light wave. "Sleep tight."

The group approached the window and peeked inside, noticing an entourage of young men lounging around, consuming alcoholic beverages in bottles. Some were engaged in inconsequential conversations; others were rough housing. Broken glass bottles, half eaten food, and miscellaneous trash were strewn all over the floor. Luigi grimaced; even a scrap of garbage in his house would send him into a cleaning fit.

Sora's eyes trailed towards a man sitting in the only decent piece of furniture in the garage: a recliner (although 'decent' was debatable, considering the tears and springs sticking out of the sides). He was tall and heavyset; he wore an aviator hat that had a design resembling Japan's Rising Sun Flag. His eyes were concealed by round sunglasses.

He wore a sleeveless brown vest, with a white muscle shirt underneath it. Written on the chest was a Kajin character (Sora couldn't even begin to imagine what it meant, and given the unpleasant, gruff nature of this man, it was probably something profane). He wore baggy jeans with a yellow cloth slash tied through them.

Resting next to him was a sheathed katana blade – his weapon of choice. He believed himself to be a powerful warrior that showed his superiority through physical exertion. Guns were the coward's way to the fight. And it's through that power that he brought together an incredible team of bandits. He couldn't help but grin in pride at their loyalty.

The man rose from his chair, carrying a bottle of his own beer. He whistled for everyone's attention; on command, all eyes were fixated on him. Words were sliced into silent pieces faster than the katana he wielded.

"A toast, boys!" the leader said, raising his bottle. "To successful day of lootin'. Mays our minds be in the gutter while our livers shrivel up."

A round of cheers from the gang concurred, and they chugged the molten taste of beer.

"I like this," one man in the crowd said. "We need to toast more often!"

Another man beamed up in enthusiasm. "In that case, I got a haircut today!"

Everyone cheered again, delighted to consume more alcohol.

"Today I survived the trials and tribulations of...filing my taxes!"

Another stimulating sound of yelling occurred, followed by more guzzling.

"I got a rock!"

The garage was filled with silent confusion for a moment. Soon, it was followed by murmuring, which lead to a halfhearted applause (and another swig of beer, of course!).

"So, boss – don't keep us watin'," another man said, leaning in with an eager look. "What is this valuable item you stole from Black Shadow?"

The leader lowed his glasses, revealing a sinister spark from within his eyes; any moment it would explode into malicious fireworks, thrilled to perform illicit acts on the city with impunity. "Ah, yes. Black Shadow is known to have rare parts that sell well on the market. But what I found might just be invaluable."

He pulled out a card containing the Star Spirit known as Klevar. Sora and his friends let out small, inaudible gasps. Meanwhile, the gang members stared at the card in bewilderment. They expected a rare piece of jewelry to shine amongst the ruined garage, rejuvenating it with some form of elegance.

But these men were devoted to their leader. He never led them astray; every word had as much mass as the planet itself.

Still, some gang members leaned on an inquiring chair. "A card of some sorts?"

"At first glance, yes." The leader approached his men. "But its everyday appearance might be nothing more than a ruse; deep down, there is a hidden power. It is of the likes I never felt before. Here. Feel it for yourselves."

Many members touched the card, startled by an insurmountable amount of energy pinching at their skin. It was overwhelming. To an average person, one couldn't begin to fathom how one could wield such power. And in the hands of thugs, it could be disastrous. Everyone was starting to understand the potential in their leader's assessment.

Once the leader reclaimed his card, he sat back in his chair, starting at the card, contemplating. "This could be the beginning of something extraordinary, I tell ya. If I could figure out how to harness this power, I would become unstoppable. No one would be able to touch us. Mute City will become our promise land!"

"And we'd be free to vandalize as we please?" another gang member asked.

The leader stood up with an incredulous scoff. "Of course, you moron! Why, with our power, women will be all over us." He cradled his round stomach with pride. "Not that I need such magic in the first place. Being a natural stud muffin already does the job for me."

Everyone in the room was hit by a wave of awkward silence. Only the crickets managed to swim through it with their chirps.

"Why are only the crickets agreeing with my sentiments?" The leader said, becoming furious.

The gang responded with quick cries of faux acclamation, hoping to quell their leader's anger.

"Good thinking!" the leader said with a satisfied smirk. "Alright! Let's celebrate our good fortunate until the sun wakes in the morning. Once this card's secrets are unlocked, everyone will fear the name Samurai Goroh!"

And so, the clamorous celebration resumed. Goroh placed the Star Spirit on a side table next to his chair, and sat down to enjoy a peaceful night, with the sweat pleasant sounds of tumultuous gang members singing in his ears. Sora and the others backed away from the window, and turned to each other with grievous looks.

Rescuing the Star Spirit was going to take a bit more effort than 'just hitting things really hard.'

"What a bunch of nice boy-scouts," Luigi said with an amalgamation of contempt and sarcasm.

"Any ideas?" Sora asked.

Luigi glanced at the window. "That samurai guy left the card out in the open. We could try distracting them." He felt Sora's presence approach him like a mischievous monkey. Without even facing him, Luigi scowled. "Keep your eyes focused north!"

"What?" Sora asked, as he leaned back with an innocent flash in his eyes. "I wasn't going to have you do it."

"Either way, we need someone who is good at causing a ruckus," Luigi said, brushing his hair in thought. "Someone who is talented at being loud and obnoxious."

From out of nowhere, Yoshi appeared in Luigi's line of sight, making him jump in surprise. The dinosaur's face lit up with ardor. "Yoshi is here to do your bidding."

"Well, thanks," Sora said, chuckling. "Glad to see you're so eager."

But Luigi was hesitant of the idea. The incident Yoshi had on Zebes still left an unplesant scab on his skin. Putting Yoshi into potential danger was like ripping it off, reliving the injury.

"Are you sure about this?" Luigi asked, with a hint of skepticism in his voice. "These thugs probably have no problem punting a kitten with a flower in its mouth across the street."

"Give him a chance, Luigi," Sora said. "We just faced the guy who literally gives you dreams about being unprepared for a test." He shuddered. "Can't begin to tell you how many times I've experienced that."

"Oh?" Luigi asked with a playful expression. "Thought that was something that happened during your waking hours."

Sora gave him a light shove, laughing. "Very funny."

Luigi faced Yoshi; his tail wagged with fervent desire to rescue the Star Spirit. The dinosaur's expression was indurated with sharp confidence. While he loved Yoshi like his own child, Luigi knew Yoshi could hand himself in battle. He needed put his faith in him. All for one, and one for all, right?

Although he wondered how Yoshi obtained such courage. He had a hunch that a certain boy with big yellow shoes might've given him some inspiration.

"Alright," Luigi said, sighing. Yoshi was elated. "But if things get out of hand, you get out of there right away! Sora and I will be right here!"

Yoshi nodded. Sora leaned over to view the machines gathered by the garage; his expression widened with glee. "Okay. I have an idea. Yoshi" –he placed an arm around him– "how'd you like to get a little naughty?"

"Me can do that," Yoshi said with an impish grin. "One time, me double dipped French fries." He stuck his tongue out between a giddy smile.

Sora raised both hands to his chest, feigning amazement. "Whoa. Slow down there. That's more naughty than I can handle. You're perfect for the job. Go over to one of those cars and ruffle it up. That should get their attention."

But Yoshi wanted to bring some artistic merit to his antics. He started fishing for creative ideas, and caught one the size of a whale. The dinosaur rubbed his hands with mischievous intent.

A few minutes later, Sora and Luigi witnessed history in the making; the next artist to match the elegant strokes and imaginations of legends. Grabbing some art supplies from a nearby store, Yoshi started painting on the right side of the pink machine. His masterpiece included: a green field, stick figures of him, Sora, and Luigi, flowers, and suns and clouds with simple smiles.

"And Yoshi gonna make happy little sun and happy little clouds…" Yoshi said in a gentle voice.

Sora did his best to hold back laughter. Luigi just shook his head in disbelief over the insane lengths Yoshi went to just for a distraction. Once he finished admiring his handywork, Yoshi whistled for Goroh and his gang. Surprised by the interruption, the men scrambled to their feet and ran out of the garage door, with Goroh right behind them. Sora and Luigi were pleased to see that he left the card on the table.

Goroh pushed his way through the crowd, irked that somewhat interrupted their time of leisure. But his expression soon turned to horror upon seeing the pink car's shining coat dampened by childish drawings.

"Yoshi hardcore!" The dinosaur said, trying to sound cool while crossing his eyes.

"My Sting Ray!" Goroh said, clutching his head, dismayed. "My beautiful Sting Ray! People will think I'm running some stupid daycare or something!" Enraged, he pointed his sword right at Yoshi's beating heart. "Little runt! You don't want to see puberty, do ya? Because that was a big mistake!"

But instead of being intimidated, Yoshi, somewhat confused, looked back and forth between Goroh and machine. "Wait, wait, wait, wait. That car yours?"

Yoshi fell over onto his back in a fit of laughter.

"What's so funny!?" Goroh asked, his anger on the verge of taking off faster than a rocket.

"You drive a pink car!" Yoshi said, wiggling his legs in the air. "Ahahahaha! Samurai man must be so embarrassed!"

To everyone's surprise, Goroh cleared his throat, stood upright, and adjusted his shirt collar, appearing proper. "For your information, masculinity is not defined by color. So I fail to see the humor in your inane, close-minded presumption."

"Actually, boss," one of his men said, "it's kinda funny."

Goroh's moment of calm splattered into sizzling, toxic umbrage, and he spun around to scowl at the highly opinioned, vocal gang member. Petrified from Goroh's intimidating stare, the man ran back into the garage (instead of, you know, just running away), and jumped out the window, just missing Sora and Luigi as he fell onto the ground. The two just blinked at him.

"Does nobody know how to use a door?" Sora asked.

"Listen, kid," Goroh said, looming over Yoshi with his hulking size. "If you value your skin, you better beg for forgiveness."

"Well, it was wrong of me to ruin your fabulous looking car." Yoshi flicked his fingers towards himself. "So, come here."

Goroh stepped into Yoshi's personal space without pause for consideration.

"Closer," Yoshi said in a small, quiet voice.

Goroh leaned over, facing the dinosaur at eye level.

"Just a little bit more." Yoshi could see every pour on the samurai's face; he was that close. The intense smell of alcohol from Goroh's breath made Yoshi's nostrils tense up in disgust.

The dinosaur responded by blowing a raspberry right in Goroh's face. Salvia splattered across his skin as if he'd been hit by hot, disgusting water from a motorboat's engine. Being humiliated further made his emotions flair into uncontrollable rage.

"Why, you—"

Yoshi rammed his head right into Gorah, sending him straight into the gang members like a bowling bowl, knocking everyone over. He morphed into his egg form, spun into Gorah's machine, which sent it crashing into the other vehicles, knocking them around like billiard balls. Content in riling the gang up, Yoshi ran for his life.

Gorah stood up, fueled by a constant, raging stream of adrenaline. "After him!"

"Boss, our machines!" one of the gang members said.

"Forget them!" Gorah said. "That lizard-thing's skin is gonna be grinded into green dust courtesy of my blade!"

The gang chased Yoshi through the industrial park. Despite his youthful stamina, the dinosaur was surprised that they were able keep pace with him. He would need to make things more complicated for them. Using his tongue, he grabbed miscellaneous objects scattered throughout the area, and tossed them straight at the gang, decelerating their pace.

Still, Gorah and his men were resilient; they continued pursuing him like furious bulls, not satisfied until Yoshi's smooth skin was against their horns. The chase soon led to the streets. Yoshi made a hard right, but the sound of loud, disoriented shouting still trailed behind him. A burst of worry pumped into his working heart; this was going to be harder than he had anticipated.

Meanwhile, after Yoshi led the gang a fair distinct from the garage, Sora and Luigi hurried inside, their eyes locked on target: the Star Spirit. But a Hover Car Heartless appeared from the side, driving straight for the card. The two sprinted over, and Luigi leaped for it, with Sora right behind him.

Much to their disappointment, the car snatched it first, drifted right, and flew out of the garage Luigi landed on the table, with Sora falling onto his back moments later. Their combined weight caused the table to collapse, making them fall onto the floor. The table's remains were scattered everywhere.

Luigi broke Sora's fall; as the boy rose to his knees, he still felt sore.

"Cheeky little fella," Sora said, groaning, rubbing his forehead. He glanced down at Luigi. "You okay?"

Luigi lifted his head from the ground, in a complete daze. In a strange, cartoon-like fashion, his teeth had protruded, and he let out a raspy, wheezy laugh. "Ha ha ha ha ha ha HA!

"Snap out of it!" Sora said in a rushed tone. He helped Luigi to his feet, giving him a rough shake to disperse the haze. "That Heartless is getting away!"

The two chased the Heartless down the same path Yoshi was leading Gorah and his gang through. More Heartless showed up to distract the two, including the ones that looked like Bulls. It tried ramming into Sora, but he caught the strike with his blade; he pushed it straight into another Car Heartless, making it tumble over onto the ground.

Another Car Heartless tried charging for Luigi, but he putted it into the air like a golf ball. Sora followed up with a Gravity spell, sending it flying towards the ground, where he finished it off with one slash from the Keyblade. Another Bull tried ramming him, but Sora side stepped it, and hit the creature in the back of the head with the Keyblade's hilt.

But another car knocked him onto the ground. The hard pavement scaped at Sora's skin, making him hiss in pain. Luigi hurried over to help him onto his feet. The two then found themselves surrounded by Heartless. Sora clenched his fist in frustration; sudden mold had formed on their perfect platter of a plan.

And what's worse: Yoshi was in danger. While the Star Spirit was important, the dinosaur meant so much more to him. Sora would never forgive himself if even a small scale was harmed.

He pulled out a Summon Gen from his pocket, and thrusted it into the air. "I don't have time for this!"

Ness appeared, landing right next the two, also encircled in the dark ring. Sora explained the situation to him.

"No problem!" Ness said with a confident smile. "I'll take care of these guys. Once my time in this realm is up, I should automatically rejoin you."

Sora and Luigi made a run through the ring, knocking aside some Heartless. Before they tried pursuing them, Ness used his PK Fire to set them ablaze. The remaining Heartless in the ring started closing in on him like hungry lions. Ness waited until he felt their cold presence tug at his skin to form goose bumps.

Once the Heartless were in range, Ness leaped into the air, using his psychic energy to boost him even higher.

"PK Flash!" Ness cried, sticking both hands out towards the Heartless.

A small ball of green light emerged from Ness, which, upon contact with the Heartless, exploded, dissolving every fiber on their being into nothingness. Ness landed on the ground, satisfied with his handywork. Whatever it takes to go home, he thought. He had a mom, dad, and little sister waiting for him, prepared to devour his favorite meal: a tender, juicy steak.

Not a single Heartless would keep him from resurrecting that perfect picture.

Sora and Luigi plowed their way through more Heartless, until they saw the streets in view. The Heartless carrying the card stood at the edge of the sidewalk, as if waiting for someone. They wouldn't give it a chance to succeed. But Luigi was intercepted by a Bull Heartless. Sora continued, not losing sight of the Heartless with the card.

"Freeze!" Sora shouted.

He solidified the Heartless in a sheet of ice. Sora ran faster; his chest felt like it was going to spontaneous combust from overexertion. Sweat showered down his forehead. He was in distance.

And then, a group of Bull Heartless restrained him. Their strength was too much for him to overcome. It was like fighting against iron strapped to his chest.

"Let me go!" Sora said, grunting and pushing against them.

A pitch black, bulky machine pulled up in front of them. The cockpit was located above the vehicle's base, and the number '30' was printed next to it. In front of the machine, parallel to each other, were two giant spikes, perfect for ramming an unsuspected driver, destroying their vehicle's innards.

The cockpit opened to reveal Black Shadow. He smirked, pleased with the scenario in front of him. It was wonderful when life didn't force him to lift a finger. He leaped from his machine, landing in front of the frozen Heartless, and snagged the card.

"Well, this is a nice surprise," Black Shadow said, eyeing the card. "Intel told me that foolish samurai brought the Star Spirit here, but never would I have expected it to be delivered by the Keyblade brat himself. I extend my humble gratitude. Seems like you're not a complete waste of air. Oh, I'm sorry. Looks like you're having an intimate moment with the Heartless. I'll leave you to your fun then. Ta-ta!"

Black Shadow laughed in triumphant as he reentered the cockpit, closed the hatch, and drove into the city's heart, meandering through its veins. Sora managed to escape the Heartless' grasp, furious with himself for letting the Star Spirit get captured. He unleashed a flurry of combos on the denizens of the dark, before finishing them off with his spiral attack.

Luigi soon joined him, placing a supportive hand on his shoulder. "Take it easy. We'll find some way to catch that creep."

"Yeah," Sora said between breaths. But that wasn't his priority right now. "C'mon! Let's help Yoshi!"

The two hurried back into the city. pushing through the physical restrains of the human body. All they cared about was rescuing Yoshi. Although a niggle managed to ring in Sora's ear: Black Shadow knew his identity, meaning he was in alliance with Bowser. Even after rescuing Yoshi, their stroll through town was about to become even more arduous.

Exhaustion started to grapple with Yoshi's legs. But he had to ignore those sensations, because slowing down would lead to disaster. Two Bull Heartless appeared to halt his progress. To his right was an alleyway, so he ran down it, in an attempt of losing them; but Goroh and the gang saw his red saddle disappear at the last second. They wasted no time in following him.

Across the street was another alleyway, cloaked behind a thick veil of darkness. But a pair of bright, white, high beams tore through the blackness, watching the chase unfold, like intense, unblinking eyes. The vehicle revealed itself from its hunting spot; it was a blue machine with two folded wings located near the backside

Painted on the front of its bonnet – as well as the wings – was the number "07." The car purred in absolute contentment, hungry for some action.

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