Chapter 62: Battle for the Crown
Elation debarred exhaustion from making the group collapse onto the ground; it held them up like strong pylons. They were encircled in a golden, shimmering ring of praise. Tumultuous cheers and applause rang in their ears – it was deafening, but worth the temporary loss in hearing. Ineffable pride had arrogated all other senses.
Sora had never received such approbation on a massive scale before. His spirits surmounted a promontory of satisfaction. After all their struggles, they became the champions, and soaked in its illuminating glow.
"We did it!" Sora said, shouting at the top of his lungs. He pumped his fist into the air. This was an accomplishment he'd never efface from his memories, keeping it forever afloat in the stream of consciousness.
"Me champion of the world, baby!" Yoshi said, hopping up and down.
Luigi fell onto his knees, outstretching both arms. "Thank the Overthere we're alive!"
Sora and Yoshi shook their heads. Typical till the end. Pikachu jumped into Sora's arms, joining in the celebration. He couldn't contain the deluge of zeal any longer. Sora spun the little mouse around the arena, consumed by a twister of their own laughter. One thing was apparent: this momentous occasion would've been bereft of immense gaiety without Pikachu's presence. They were experiencing this momentous occasion together.
"Superb job, boys." Everyone turned to see Oak approaching them; he caught the infectious virus of excitement. "At the beginning, I had my doubts. But you've proven this old man wrong. You truly deserve to be here."
Sora rubbed his head, blushing from the compliment. It was nice to receive praise. Especially from all the hardships they endued: from Team Rocket to battling Legendary Pokémon. Every word was warranted; Sora would savor every proud moment like a large bowl of ice cream. But Sora's predilection for competition wasn't lassitude in the slightest. His mind accelerated, ignoring the speed limit signs of the present.
"So, when do we go up against Red?"
Oak laughed. "Slow down, Sora! Your limitless energy's going to take the wind out of me! Red should be on his way. There will be an hour's respite before the match. So I suggest using that time to recuperate."
"He's right," Luigi said, letting out a tired exhale. "My heart is making demands to never leave my throat unless it gets a little R&R."
Excitement began to taper from Sora, and he could feel the fatigue parading throughout his body with rampant fury. Perhaps he should accede to the professor's advice; he didn't want his match with Red to end before it even started.
"Okay." Sora turned to see Cloud struggling to his feet. Despite Cloud's less than favorable tone and demeanor, he was still a worthy competitor. Someone that tested the depths of your abilities and forced you beyond them – to seek out and claim a new land of undiscovered potential. Cloud was partially ascribed to their growth in the tournament.
Sora walked over to Cloud, extending a friendly hand. The warrior looked up at the boy. Something about his cordial smile cleansed the murky surface of disappointment. A smirk managed to peel off a small piece of Cloud's inexpressive countenance, and he allowed Sora to help him onto his feet.
"Good fight," Sora said. "Forgotten how tough you are."
"I lose to you fair and square," Cloud said. "There's no way around it: you and your friends are incredible fighters. One of the strongest I've ever faced."
"Thanks," Sora said, grinning. "A compliment from you is once in a lifetime. Better enjoy it while it lasts."
A small chuckled squirmed through Cloud's lips. "Funny guy." His face was concealed behind a grim shadow. "Listen, I hope you go onto win your match against Red. But take my advice into consideration when you face the next opponent."
"Next opponent?"
"Yes. Defeating Red will allow you to face an additional, optional fighter." Cloud paused for a moment; just alluding to this person made his stomach swell from a connection of intense emotions. "He's the one I've been searching for."
"Oh, so that's why you wanted to win," Sora said.
"That's partially true," Cloud said. "But there's more." The sincere shadows became more defined on his face. "He's the mightiest swordsmen in the world. No one can come close to matching his power. Facing him would be a death sentence."
The weight of Cloud's foreboding sentences made Sora's chest sink like an anchor. Talk about overselling someone, he thought. If Cloud of all people spoke in high regard of this person's ability, it must be serious.
"I see what you're saying," Sora said. "You don't want this guy to harm me."
Cloud ignored the truism by glancing to one side. "In the end, this is your decision. I'm not your babysitter. But at least let my words linger when you consider facing him."
Sora could hear a low murmur of concern hidden within the depths of Cloud's aloof tone. He was remonstrant in having Sora compete against this foe. Deep down, Cloud had gained admiration for Sora. He was a decent human being who had an ardor for life. Someone that brushed away the repulsive cobwebs to find the radiant center of a person's good will.
Being around Sora allowed him to sojourn in the present, keeping the window of his past closed, and be in a good company. But this positive state of mind was ephemeral. The window would burst open, allowing him to see the black, interminable clouds pass by again. This person Cloud was seeking had made his life miserable for a long time.
He relished in Cloud's agony; to watch as everything around him deteriorated into dust. He awaited the day everything Cloud cherished was gone, and he would impel to his own dark desires. But Cloud wouldn't submit to malicious suggestion, for his light would debar such fowl words from borrowing within his ears.
However, he didn't want Sora's potential demise to extinguish that light.
"This guy sounds dangerous," Sora said, musing. "I'll think it over."
"Good," Cloud said. "I'll be hanging around to watch the match. Just try not to lose too hard."
"Like you did, right?" Sora said, forming a sly smirk.
Cloud remained inexpressive. "Always a comedian. Take care, kid."
He departed for the lobby. But the vestiges of his words hovered around Sora's head like thick fog. His thoughts were unclear. He was always prepared to face new opponents, but one of this magnitude could be a mistake. Potentially lethal. But incipient curiosity was obdurate in seeing this person in action, up close and personal. Sora hefted these vacillate thoughts onto his shoulders like a backpack as he and the others returned to the lobby.
In the waiting area, everyone was sitting in one of the chairs, letting the stresses of today's matches dissipate onto the floor. Sora explained his conversation with Cloud to everyone. Without even a need to ruminate, Luigi said, "Well, you should take his advice."
"Why?" Sora asked.
"Because it makes sense," Luigi said. "Reasonable advice makes life easy for everyone! Especially me!"
Sora reclined in his seat and stared up at the ceiling, letting the conflicting thoughts slide back and forth on a seesaw. One didn't seem to overpower the other. "I know this guy sounds intimidating. But this might be our only chance to face someone unlike any other. I've always learned how to fight from my opponents. Just think of what moves I can learn from him."
"Couldn't you just wait for the home video release?" Luigi asked, in his usual nervous tone.
Sora frowned at him, and then sighed. "Look, we probably won't win against him. No one's unbeatable. Bet this guy got a few black eyes back in his day before becoming the best. But an opportunity to take on the best is a rare one." He leaned forward, placing both hands on his chin, submitting again to those conflicting thoughts. "I just…don't know."
The others didn't know what to make of this situation, either. It was a hard decision – one that wouldn't have a satisfying answer. Irrespective of the choice, a small, albeit vocal, voice would upbraid you not taking the other option. Like Sora said, it was a once in a lifetime opportunity. But was pursuing a difficult accomplishment worth the risk?
"Listen, this probably isn't the time to think about it," Luigi said. "How can we even make that decision if we haven't beaten Red?"
Sora's eyes brightened. "Right. I'm more excited about taking on Red first."
"Well, you don't have to wait much longer!" Everyone turned to see Red approaching with his Charizard. Sora immediately rose from his seat, as if a spring of alacrity pushed at his backside. Red had a wide smile on his face. "Something tells me you'd be the ones I face."
"Because you know we're going to beat ya!" Sora said, as he ran over to Red. The two stared each other in the eyes, seeing the flames of their excitement let out sonorous cackles. Sora had waited so long for this moment. He wanted to break apart the manacle of patience and start the match now. But doing so might have dire consequences to Sora's allowance in terms of destroyed décor.
Red scoffed. "Give me a break. You have no idea what Charizard and I can do together."
"Your other friends tried with their Pokémon," Sora said, stretching out his arms, "but we took them down. Charizard's going to wish he stayed in his Pokeball."
Charizard exhumed a snort, sharing in Red's unwavering confidence.
"Oh yeah?" Red asked. "Maybe we should find out right now." He cracked his fists. "Show me what you got!"
Sora opened his mouth, but the words became stuck in a marsh from a sudden idea. He didn't have an inkling as to what sparked something so bizarre, yet intriguing. Maybe this was his chance to prove himself – to see how far the fruits of his training had taken him. For a moment, he recounted his fight with Digby in Traverse Town. Something about his words were indelible, and, in a way, inspiring.
Almost every thought was amenable to the idea. Although some questioned his sanity. Still, the majority outweighed the decision.
Red noticed Sora's contemplative state and shared a smirk with Charizard. "Dude, don't tell me you're under pressure now."
"You wish," Sora said, appearing bold. "I want to try something different. Let me go one-on-one with Charizard!"
Everyone was shocked by Sora's insane entreat. Luigi thought this was joke. But nope; levity couldn't be seen caressing an inch of Sora's stone-cold demeanor. Either Cloud hit him too hard on the head, or the excessive hair gel finally seeped into Sora's skull, creating delusions of grandeur. But intrigue wanted to see the scenario take center stage in the arena.
Perhaps Luigi was curious to see how far Sora had come in his training with the Keyblade. After all, he was the 'key' that played an essential role in finding his brother; and the Heartless were determined to keep that passage from being written. Undoubtedly, they'd become stronger overtime, so he wanted to see if Sora's power was tantamount to their own. If not, better.
Yoshi, however, didn't share Luigi's sentiments. He gave Sora a reproving look. "Hey! That no fair! We team! Sora trying to be a showoff!
"Well, maybe a little bit," Sora said, with a sheepish grin.
"Let him go," Luigi said. "I'm honestly really curious to see how he does."
Yoshi mulled over Luigi's nonchalant attitude towards the situation. "If Luigi find with it, me guess Yoshi is, too."
Pikachu lowered his ears, plaintive. Not being able to help Sora seemed like a punishment; all he could do was watch from the confinement of the bleachers, unable to assist…
Unable to make a difference.
Sora noticed the sadness in Pikachu's eyes and rubbed his head. "Don't worry, buddy. I'll be fine. You guys can cheer from the seats."
"Yeah, Pikachu," Yoshi said with encouragement. "Me share popcorn with you."
But cheering was just noise; it couldn't reach out and physically touch someone. At least, that's what the little mouse believed. Still, he could sense confidence in everyone else, so it ameliorated some worry. Pikachu acquiesced with a nod. Same with Isabelle, although she had silent reservations as well. But Sora was obdurate against the will of impossibility. Part of his existence was to prove the pessimistic wrong.
"Okay," Isabelle said. "Good luck out there, Sora."
Red feigned disappointment. "Aw, that's too bad. This match won't last long."
"You'd be surprised by the things I can do by myself," Sora said, standing his ground with a firm expression. "Might wanna hold off on that victory speech."
Red could feel his excitement rise. It had been so long since he met an opponent like Sora – one who wasn't afraid of a challenge. But did he have the strength to supplement such determination? Red was eager to see. "Alright. If that's what you want. Charizard and I aren't holding back in this fight!"
"Good!" Sora said. "Bring it on!"
Sora, Red, and Charizard stepped into the arena, surrounded by the ardent fans who couldn't wait for the match to start. Expectations were tall like a precipice. The final matchup couldn't have been more serendipitous: a one-on-one battle between human and Pokémon.
Years of research had led to this moment. Professor Oak couldn't wait to dissect every stunning visual of this fight. Has humanity pushed themselves to match the mythical properties of Pokémon? History was prepared to transcribe every second. Luigi and the others managed to obtain front row seats in the crowd. Although they were always supportive of Sora, some reluctance heckled them from behind their heads.
"Hope he knows what he's doing," Isabelle said.
"I never understand what that kid is doing," Luigi said with a nettled sigh. "But there is a method to the madness. He's always pull through in the end. Let's hope he does it again."
Sora stared down Charizard. The massive Pokémon's intimidating eyes tried to pierce Sora's confidence with a sharp, burning blade. It didn't budge. Sora's desire to win was hard like a shield, and he would brandish his strength like a sword. He wasn't afraid; it was like the valiant knight in his books, standing before the giant dragon without fear. Sora would conjure that same mindset.
After the announcer's declaration for the match to begin, Charizard flew straight at Sora, preparing to ram him with his head. Sora brought the Keyblade straight up to catch the attack. His bones shuttered from the impact. Charizard leaped back and unleashed a flame attack from his mouth.
Sora leaped into the air, pointing the tip of the Keyblade at the Pokémon. "Freeze!"
Charizard deflected the spell with a simple flap of his wing. Sora landed on the ground, leaped forward, and tried delivering a thrust. Charizard deflected the strike with one of his claws; he then tried going on the offense with the opposite. Sora held the blade over his head at a diagonal angle, blocking the strike.
Charizard spun around, trying to trip the boy with his tail. Sora jumped high into the air, avoiding the swipe, and then tried to retaliate with a downward strike. But the Pokémon caught Sora's arm and threw him across the arena. Fortunately, Sora landed on his feet; after stumbling backwards, he regained balance. Nervous sweat started dilapidating a bit of his iron confidence. Charizard was far more challenging than Blue and Leaf's Pokémon. And he had the others to help him.
Sora took a deep breath, tightening the faucet of nerves. He never fled from a challenge, despite the odds stacking high like Legos, ready to collapse and crush him in the process. His constant duels were incontrovertible proof of that unwavering resolute. He would prevail – not just because of victory, but for self-improvement. To be ready for the inevitable fight against Bowser and the Heartless (and much to his reluctance, Riku).
Charizard's wings were encased in a white glow. He flapped them both, releasing two white beams of energy. Sora hopped to his left to dodge the first and destroyed the second with a downward slash. Unfortunately, it was a distraction, as Charizard flew straight for the boy, clenching his fist in a similar glow. Sora wouldn't have time to dodge the attack, so he flipped through various files at lightning speeds for a defensive maneuver.
Sora gripped the tip of the blade with his free hand and thrusted it forward at horizontal angle. "Wind!"
White magical whisps formed a protective shield around Sora's body. Charizard's punched the Keyblade, delivering enough force to send Sora sliding into a wall; his bones shook in agony from the impact. Aches started their pilgrimage towards Sora joints. He denied them the privilege of acknowledgement.
The ground began to shake from the tremendous pounding of Charizard's giant footsteps. Sora looked up to see the Pokémon running straight for him. Now, his tail was glowing. Sora dove to the right, just avoiding the swipe, which left a thick dent in the wall. The Pokémon lifted a paw, and its nails became elongated. It tried a downward swing, but Sora leaped backwards to avoid being cut to pieces.
Charizard unleashed another fire attack. Sora leaped onto the nearby wall, dodging the attack, ran on it, leaped into the air, and tried another downward strike. The Pokémon protected himself with one of his wings. He then pushed Sora onto the ground with one of his paws. Sora grunted as he felt the rumble in his back from the impact.
Charizard pinned the boy to the ground with his paws. No matter what he did, Sora couldn't break free from the Pokémon's grip. He was helpless prey before the predator.
"Told you we mean business," Red said, smirking in pride. "Should've thought about bringing your dino friend to distract Charizard with his cute looks."
Yoshi gasped in surprise. "What!? How you figure out hidden technique!? It was perfected in secrecy for…well, ever since me an egg." He glared at Pikachu. "You spill beans, didn't you? Those Pika Pikas really 'morasses code' for Cute Combo Attack!"
Pikachu tilted his in confusion for the strange accusation. Luigi just rubbed his forehead in exasperation. Sora stood his ground as Charizard's hot breath brushed against his face like smoke. Behind that maw was a geyser that could explode from one false move.
To any other person, this situation would seem frightening. But Sora had witnessed worst things: the destruction of his island, and the Heartless – problems that seemed impossible to fix. Just like his current predicament. But he couldn't accept that notion. Problems were perforce by solutions – an equation that must true. It was there. Sometimes you had to delve deep to uncover them.
Taking a deep breath, Sora let his thoughts guide him through an emporium of ideas. Shelves were stocked to the brim with a plethora of them, and he found one protruding nearby. A memory in fact, of when he took the test to compete in the tournament. The orange creature he fought was the inferior version of Charizard. Which meant it had the same weakness.
Sora clenched his fist, combining the Fire and Blizzard spells in each one. "I'm fine. If you're giving it your all, then I might actually get some enjoyment out of this fight."
He clasped both hands on each side of Charizard's arm, releasing a burst of water into the Pokémon's skin; he roared from the sudden, sizzling pain, retracted his arm, and clutched it. Sora leaped to his feet and grasped the hilt of the Keyblade with both hands. Concentrating with all his might, he managed to fuse both spells into the blade, encasing it in water.
Taking his chance, Sora slashed right across Charizard's stomach; his roars of pain filled the cloudless sky with trembling dread. Red's jaw dropped; he couldn't believe his eyes. But it was a minor setback. Charizard had an artillery of abilities locked and loaded, with sights set on Sora, prepared to end this fight.
Charizard swung his tail at the boy, releasing a wave of flames from the tip. Sora prepared to dodge, but he stopped as the flames encircled him. He found himself trap in a twister of fire. Charizard flew into the air, hovering over the tornado, and prepared to launch another burst of fire into the air.
Thinking quickly, Sora swung downward, creating a wound within the flame, and leaped through it to escape before Charizard's attack could connect. Growing irritated from Sora's persistence, Red commanded his Pokémon to remain airborne, and only perform physical attacks at an opportuned moment.
Charizard launched another fire attack. Sora rolled to avoid the blast. The Pokémon made a hard turn, swooped in low, and knocked Sora aside with his wing. He flew into the air, unleashing another burst of fire while Sora was on the floor. The boy scrambled to his feet, just missing the scorching stream.
He retaliated with his spiral beam attack, but Charizard flew away to dodge the first batch, performed a loop-de-loop to avoid the second ones, and then destroyed the remaining few with a small burst of fire. Despite Charizard's size, he was agile, like a small bird. Sora gritted his teeth; he was a mammal at the mercy of a hawk. Any second its talons would strike.
What Sora needed to do was bring Charizard down to his level. And he just the spell to make that plan feasible. It would require a moment of distraction. Sora waited until Charizard started diving right for him.
"Thunder!" Sora said.
Charizard stopped right before the lightning could strike. Sora's ruse worked perfectly, as he conjured a Gravity spell in secret. It manifested right above the Pokémon's head.
"Look out, buddy!" Red said.
But it was too late. The force from the spell caused Charizard to plummet towards the ground. Sora once again combined his spells, leaped at Charizard, and delivered a fierce upper cut slash. The Pokémon roared again as it spun onto the ground. Red found himself in a stupefied ditch. He couldn't believe these distressing images were being projected. His own Pokémon being bested by someone? It didn't seem plausible. But here were the facts, presented in vivid colors.
Sora was stronger than he anticipated. Maybe he was fortunate to have faced him alone.
Charizard managed to stand up, albeit in an awkward manner. His chest was rising and falling like an undecided balloon, taking deep breaths. Sora exhibited similar fatigue. But their minds played one track on endless loop: victory.
Red was impressed. "Dude, you're something else! I knew this wasn't going to be easy!"
"And I plan on keeping it that way," Sora said between breaths.
Red's confidence didn't falter. "Not when you sound out of breath. I'd say you'll collapse any time now. Like I said: we're not holding back. Allow me to show you Charizard's full power."
The lingering heat from Charizard's breath dissolved from a sudden chill in Sora's neck. Full power!? Two dreaded words were strong enough to make his confidence start to sink in nervous quicksand. But his resolve continued to stay afloat. This would be the final test of his strength – to see if it would mold into the solid gold title of champion.
Red pulled out the mysterious bracelet and placed it on his wrist. Shocked murmurs rattled throughout the arena – a presage that aggrieved Sora and his friend.
"Uh-oh!" the announcer said, as his voice bellowed with excitement. "Is that what I think it is!? If so, this battle may be over soon."
Luigi glanced at the announcer's booth with repine. "Glad to see this guy isn't playing side."
Red's bracelet was consumed in a brilliant light, displaying a spectrum of colors that spun around like a whirlpool. Charizard's body was encased in a similar light, going through a transformation like a caterpillar in a cocoon. Except with the benefit of accelerated time. His silhouette grew a few feet taller; parts of his body gain additional spikes. Intense, hot wind discharged from his body, assaulting Sora's skin with relentless lashes. But Sora wouldn't let his resolve melt into timorous droplets. He'd continue fighting until fatigue lay him to rest.
Charizard's new form unveiled itself from behind the drapery of colors. His skin was pitch black; a light blue was coated on his underbelly, the tips of his horns, and the flames of his tail. Two blue spikes protruded from his shoulders, curving upwards. A continuous stream of long, blue flames remained stationary on each side of his maw, giving it the appearance of an intimidating moustache
Charizard let out a powerful, boastful roar that made the stadium tremble in overawe. Everyone in the audience responded in an explosion of wild cheers. Well, except for Sora's friends; they were covered in discouraged soot left behind from said explosion. Luigi could feel himself sinking into his seat from the combined weight of anxiety and disappointment. Isabelle was almost impelled to shut her eyes; she didn't want them to taste the bitter imagery about to ensue.
Yoshi tried to wrap cautious optimism around his neck like an incipiently dull neckless. "Um, Sora, if you can hear Yoshi, me still rooting for you." He waved a small flag. "Go team."
Pikachu tried to wear that same cautious optimism. Although worry further ruined its luster.
"Whoa!" Sora said, as he squeezed the hilt of the Keyblade, trying to subdue the sudden feeling of intimidation. "What is this?"
Red let out a confident smirk. "This is the power of Mega Evolution. Charizard's much stronger than before. Seeing how you've barely to managed to hold your own against his regular form, I can foresee this going over well."
"Won't know until the fight continues, will we?" Sora said, keeping his confidence from becoming adrift in a wind tunnel of uncertainty. "Give me your best shot!"
Red was impressed by Sora's determination. But they meant nothing in the face of action. It would dictate if that determination was just. Charizard ran for Sora at incredible speeds, delivering a downward slash. Sora had just enough time to bring his blade up at a diagonal angle, blocking the attack.
Sora could feel himself stepping backwards as he swung inward to block another strike from Charizard's opposite hand. Not a single opening had extended a warm invitation. All Sora could do was deflect every slash. Charizard knocked Sora away with his massive tail; the boy landed on his backside. He then heard large wings flapping in the air.
Looking up, Sora gasped upon seeing Charizard preparing another fire attack. Sora dove out of the way before he was drenched in a shower of flames. He once again combined his Fire and Blizzard spells, and tossed the Keyblade straight at Charizard, hitting him in the face. No effect. Not even a flinch. Sora's once rigid confidence began to arch into a painful realization of hopelessness.
Charizard dove straight towards Sora, delivering a punch. He leaped back to avoid it. Charizard flew at the boy with another claw attack; the boy swung the Keyblade down at a diagonal angle to deflect the strike. Next, the Pokémon swung his tail again; this time, Sora ducked underneath it. But he didn't have a chance to block an incoming headbutt. Straight to the chest.
The force was powerful enough to knock Sora into a nearby wall. Sora was able stand up, but fatigue started eating away at him like a plethora of leeches. He could hear his breathing; it even matched the loud, incoherent chatter of the audience. Yoshi noticed Pikachu's anxious expression. The little mouse couldn't stand being a bystander anymore; he tried liberating himself from the bleachers, but Yoshi restrained him.
Pikachu could have released the dino's grip through an electric attack, but a reel showing a potential future started playing in his head. It contained a scene of Sora speaking in a reproving manner over Pikachu's intervention. While he wanted to help Sora, a vocal part of his conscience acceded to the boy's request. Pikachu released his grip, sat back in the seat, and continued watching the discouraging sight in sadness. Yoshi offered an encouraging pat on the shoulder.
Sora felt the pounding footsteps of Chairzard ague in his bones. Soon, he found himself covered in the Pokémon's shadow; not a spec of sunlight remained, just like his hope.
"Sorry, man," Red said, showing some empathy. "No hard feelings. I always aim to win. You should call it quits."
Sora closed his eyes, being cajoled by rational thought. At first, he thought winning would ascribe to his growth. He had experienced loss against Riku for so long. But he realized that failure was a part of life – a crucial step towards improvement. He was able hold his own against Charizard for a long time. That was the proof he needed.
He didn't want to be endued with Cloud's negative mindset. Sora wanted to retain his fun-loving mindset. Not just for his own sake, but because of the promise he made to Kairi: to never change. Before Sora could speak, he noticed a brief flash of Charizard in his original form; then, he returned to his Mega Evolved state.
Sora's eyes widened as suspicion snaped an alarming finger in front of him. He glanced at Red; his confidence expression was hit with a bright glare of concern. This confirmed Sora's theory:
Charizard's new form was contingent on the strict finger of time.
Sora let out a small smirk. "Nah. Not when things are starting to look potentially bad for you."
"Quick, Charizard!" Red said, in a rushed tone. "End this!"
Charizard opened his large maw; a ball of spinning fire started crawling out from within the arid caverns of the Pokémon's throat. Sora remained stationary, waiting for the right moment to proceed with his counterattack. The pressure of the fire continued to build; it was intense, like being caught in a desert storm.
Finally, Sora raised the Keyblade. "Stop!"
Every part of Charizard's being was suspend within the iron grasp of the spell. Audience members – and especially Red – felt their jaws drop from the gravitational pull of bewilderment.
"W-What did you just do to him?" Red asked, feeling an incipient pang of worry in his chest.
Sora grinned. "Don't worry. He's fine. Just letting him enjoy the last moments of his advantage."
Sora sprinted out of Charizard's path, with only moments to spare before the ephemeral spell relinquished its hold on the Pokémon. The fire attack launched from his mouth, and exploded upon contact with the wall, leaving a burnt cruse in its wake. Charizard was taken aback by Sora's sudden disappearance; he scanned the vicinity for a trace of him.
"Hey!" Sora said. Charizard spun around to see the boy a fair distance behind him. "I can smell that smokey breath of yours from all the way over here! Mind taking a chill on the fire attacks? Might make things a bit pleasant. Oh, and because of trying not to burn me to a crisp? That'd be nice, too."
Charizard exhumed indignant, hot air from his nose and ran straight for the boy. Sora rolled aside to avoid a potential trampling. Next, Charizard swung his claw straight at him. The boy – swinging the Keyblade inward with both hands – deflected the attack and walked past him. Sora spun around, preparing to deliver a thrust. With quick reflexes, Charizard faced Sora, swung his right claw inward, and knocked the attack aside.
Charizard leaned over, preparing another fire attack. This time, Sora ran over to the side of the Pokémon's neck, climbed onto it, and settled on the nape. Charizard started flailing his neck back and forth, hoping for Sora's grip to taper. But he held on with the indefatigable grip of an octopus.
Red was speechless; seldom could anyone survive against Charizard's true power. They had spent an interminable amount of time honing their skills: to become unstoppable against opposition. No trainer could tantamount their strength. But now, this stranger – not even a Pokémon – was keeping pace with Charizard. His thoughts and feelings were ineffable. Yet there was a pinch of intrigue, to see how long Sora would survive.
Charizard flew high into the air, spinning his body around, trying to break Sora's grip. But it remained immutable, as if he glued himself right to the Pokémon's neck. Still, Charizard swerved back and forth like a tired bird.
Isabelle tried shutting her eyes, but curiosity was implacable to the command – they were wide open, absorbing every intense image from the match like light to a pavement. But her anxious heart performed a strident drum solo. "Not once have I ever felt stressed working on a pile of exigent paperwork. And yet, Sora's constant, perilous escapades are liable to give me a heart attack."
"You gotta admit, though," Luigi said. "Least he's got more control over piloting Charizard than he does with the ship."
Beyond frustrated by Sora's inability to relent, Charizard tried ramming the boy straight into a wall. At the last moment, Sora hopped off the Pokémon just before he made contact, causing an explosion of dust and particles. Going on the offense, Sora launched his spiral attack straight into the cloud. Which lead to an even bigger explosion.
Sora waited in silence, with anxiety surmounted above his shoulders, pulling them up like a crane. Movement wasn't noticeable behind the veil of drifting soot. But instinct didn't obviate those feelings of apprehension. Soon enough, its presage rang true, as Charizard rushed out from the dust preparing his fist. Sora was able to block the attack, but the force knocked him back a fair distance.
To make matters worse, he couldn't retain his balance and toppled over. Charizard hurried over with a clenched fist, charging it with immense orange energy. This was his chance to end the battle. All Sora could brace himself for the inevitable blow. But Charizard came to a stop; his entire body was ceased by a sudden realization.
Fatigue started arrogating every muscle, trussing them in inescapable rope. The Pokémon kneeled over to catch his breath. Red blinked in silent bewilderment; this imagery seemed like a fabrication conjured from his dreams – a place where only the impossible resided. But he had not departed for that sojourn. Everything was real.
Charizard reverted to his original form. Many members of the audience stood from their bleachers, sharing Red's sentiments of shock through low murmuring. With Charizard momentarily stunned, Sora took his chance. Once again, he conflated his Fire and Blizzard spell, and then rushed through the Pokémon at incredible speeds. Every strike was inexorable, as Charizard couldn't keep pace in his state of languor.
Finally, Sora lunged into the air, delivering a slash straight across the chest. Charizard stumbled backwards from the pain. Sora couldn't continue fighting; his body would no longer accede to any command. He found himself leaning onto his Keyblade like a cane, taking long, tired breathes. Charizard clutched a paw to his chest; he, too, was submissive before the omnipresence of exhaustion.
Silence encapsulated the entire stadium. Everyone was now standing up, leaning forward in their seats. If they leaned any further, the entire audience would fallen flat onto the stadium like a tree. The air held its breath in conjunction with the audience. Sora and Charizard stared at each other for a long time, waiting for the slightest sign of movement.
And Charizard was the first to break the interminable cycle. By collapsing onto the floor.
The referee hurried over to the Pokémon and gave an assiduous assessment. He raised his flag. "Charizard is unable to battle! The winner and champions of the first ever Human vs Pokémon competition is TEAM GONZELS!"
And the silence was overmastered by the uncontrollable cheers from the audience. Sora's friends joined in the celebrations, too, with warm embraces and sonorous exhales. So many thoughts perambulated throughout Red's mind, unable to find a coherent landmark. Except for one.
Red walked over to Charizard, kneeled over to his face, and placed a loving hand on the Pokémon's cheek. Despite being exhausted, Charizard stared into his partner's eyes with unyielding flame of love. Nothing could ever extinguish the bond they shared.
"Like I said: could've never asked for a better partner," Red said in a gentle, loving tone.
Charizard responded with a weak, tender smile. Sora had defied the impossible. Even he couldn't believe his own senses. He was encircled in a ring of praise – it was such a wonderful feeling. One of the best he had experienced on this journey. They worked so hard to reach this goal. And now they could reap its prodigious reward: satisfaction and pride. Two incredible feelings that were indelible, forever bound to the reel of their lives.
Luigi, Yoshi, and Pikachu hurried over from the bleachers to congratulate their friend. Sora tried to stand up, but fatigue retained a tight hold on his senses. He was even somewhat dazed. Still, nothing would prevent him from celebrating. He raised a weak fist into the air. "Woo-hoo! I'm going to beat 'em all! Who's next to face the champ?"
He started to meet Charizard's fate of collapsing onto the less than comforting floor, but Luigi and Yoshi run over to catch him.
"Take it easy, Mr. Champ," Luigi said, chuckling. "Wouldn't want to see too much of your ego. We don't have room for it in the ship. But great job out there!"
Yoshi was beyond jubilant. "Sora was awesome!"
"Pika pika!" Pikachu said in agreement.
Later, after the initial celebrations ceased, and Sora was healed by Luigi, white pedestals were brought out into the arena – one for each member of Team Gonzels. Sora and his friends took their spots, standing tall and proud before the audience. To their left stood Red and Charizard, the latter who recovered from his fight.
Red let out a genuine smile; it had been a long time since he faced defeat. Such a bizarre feeling to experience again. But it was one of the vast ripples in the stream of life – something that everyone faced. But he knew that failure was just another fun challenge to overcome. And with enough practice, he could debar from it occurring again.
He couldn't wait to begin another journey of self-improvement. With his Pokémon willing to seek out that goal with him. But there was a truism he couldn't deny: Sora and his friends were an incredible team. Perseverance had a predilection for the group above all else. Time again they defied expectations, keeping their teamwork from drifting apart into an incongruous mess. Red knew since the beginning of the tournament that they had potential. He was glad to never doubt them. Especially Sora. He'd keep their match hung on the wall of memories like a plaque.
Professor Oak approached the four with a golden trophy, which glistened in the sunlight with pride. "Congratulations! The four of you showcased excellent strength and teamwork. It's with a great pleasure that I present you with the championship trophy." He handed it to Sora. "Let it serve as a reminder for all your accomplishments."
Sora saw his reflection in the trophy, which smiled right back at him, inspirited with the same alacrity. Never would he have imagined to be standing here today as a champion. He felt that any challenge, regardless of difficulty, could be overcome. There would be hardships strewn throughout the path, but instead of becoming discouraged, just sweep them aside with a broom of optimism and continue forward.
Sora's hands became ague from the excitement flowing through them, lifted the trophy into the air, and shouted, "We're the champs!"
The audience cheered again as confetti rained down from the sky. Yoshi tried eating a piece and spat it out upon feeling the rough texture against his mouth. Luigi just shook his head in response. Sora then pulled both Luigi and Yoshi into his arms; Pikachu jumped onto Sora's back with an embrace, molding them into a sculpture of ardor.
They lingered in this moment for a long time, feeling safe within a vault of tranquility – a place where none of their problems could ever reach them.
People began shuffling through the hallways to exit the arena. It had been an eventful day for everyone; they couldn't wait to go home and replay today's excitement in the projectors of their minds. As the crowds waned, Sora and the others made their way through the hallways, returning to the main lobby.
"That was impressive, man," Red said. "You knew how to exploit Charizard's weakness.
"Well, you know how to command Charizard well." Sora could still feel vestiges of pain wandering throughout his body. "Gave me quite a workout."
As they reached the lobby, Red said, with his eyes beaming with amazement, "But I still can't believe it! I told Charizard not to hold back! Our fight was well worth the wait."
"It was," Sora said. He stopped within a pothole hall of brief contemplation. "But I regret not including my friends."
"Why's that?" Oak asked.
Sora smiled. "Because I realize where my true strength comes from, and that's from Luigi and Yoshi."
Said duo felt touched by Sora's words. They acquiesced that assessment. Irrespective of some disagreements, the three had formed an incredible bond with each other – not just out of perforce for survival, but because they understood one another on a deep, emotional level. It was plane of existence only the esoteric could reach. Even then, you'd only see a glimmer of that unbreakable chain.
Sora had become a part of their life; they could never imagine a life without him sharing in the same joys and laughter.
"Is that so?" Oak asked.
"Yep." Sora gestured towards Luigi and Yoshi. "With these two by my side, we're unbeatable. Not even Red stands a chance. I'm ready for anything when these two are besides me."
"Absolutely," Luigi said with a nervous grin. "Means I'm not the first target everyone goes for." He noticed Sora and Yoshi glaring at him. "I'm kidding! Wouldn't have it any other way."
Yoshi licked Sora's cheek. "Sora always gives Yoshi encouragement. We always work best together!"
"That's why you three are the champions," Oak said. "You display the same traits as a Pokémon and his trainer; comradery and teamwork. These two elements are how trainers like Red prevailed in the Pokémon League."
"Exactly." Red approached Sora. "The three of you are awesome together. And as a team, I'm sure you can overcome anything."
Red exchanged a high five with Sora. The two were friends before, but, since their match, they had gained respect for one another. In a way, they were both similar, relying on the assistance of their friends to help them trudge through a bog of uncertainty. It served as the motivation for their strength. And if nothing went errant, that strength would never stop growing.
Before the group's conversation devolved into badinage, familiar, deafening, stertorous breathing caused the still air to become timorous. Everyone covered their ears as they were able to identify the source.
"Gracious!" Oak said. "We got forgot about Snorlax!"
Luigi gave him an incredulous expression. "How could you forget about a thousand pounds in body mass?"
"Suppose I'll have someone come by to remove him." Oak let out a nettled sigh. "Might be a bit, though."
"How about letting us try, Professor?" Sora asked; there was an enthusiastic twinkle in his eyes.
But dread was daubed across Luigi's like muck. "No. Do you remember what happened last time? I'm not made of clay, ya know?"
"Let's do it together, then," Sora said, keeping his upbeat attitude fastened. "We are a team, right?"
Luigi mulled over Sora's statement for a moment. He shrugged. "Well, guess it would make this moral have some weight to it.
Sora, Luigi, and Yoshi walked over Snorlax's wide shoulders, placed their hands on them, and, with using every ounce of strength, started pushing against the giant Pokémon. To everyone's surprise, they managed to move the Pokémon a few feet, before being interrupted by phosphorescence; it flashed from underneath them, and them consumed the entire vicinity in a bright light. At least, for a moment, as it soon vanished from reality.
Remnants of confusion were left within its wake, with everyone trying to piece together what happened.
"What was that?" Red asked.
"Looks like it came from below us," Yoshi said. "Maybe Pokémon left something behind."
Luigi winced, having a terrible feeling as to what Yoshi inferred. "Please don't say that. You're making me feel uncomfortable."
Sora looked down; what he saw filled him elation. "Relax. This is something you'll be pleased to see."
The others followed Sora's gaze and saw a Keyhole. Both Luigi and Yoshi sighed in relief at the familiar sight. Sora wasted no time in sealing the Keyhole; as it vanished from reality, a Labo Piece was expelled, landing right in Luigi's hand. The keyhole said its farewell in the form of a locking sound. With a new piece in their position, Cid could install a new upgrade.
"Well, that wrapped up nicely," Sora said.
"D-Do I even want to know?" Red asked, conflated with both confusion and concern.
"It's a long story," Sora said with a heavy sigh. "There are moments where I don't fully get it. Just know that everything's okay."
Red and Oak stared at each other, unable to process this strange phenomenon they both witnessed. But they could trust Sora's words. Not an ignoble blemish was detected on his countenance.
With visions of their mission starting to take precedence, Isabelle said, "Guess we're heading back home.
"Oh, Sora," Oak said. "Before you leave, I wanted to let you know about something. As champion, you have a chance to take part in a special one on one fight."
Sora flinched. He had forgotten about what Cloud told him. But there was one part of Oak's sentence that made him feel a bit uncomfortable. "One-on-one?"
"Yes," Oak said. "We really wanted to test the champion's strength against a powerful warrior. Fortunately, we found one. An incredible swordsman who is eager for a decent challenge. Would you be willing to face him? It's completely optional."
Sora found himself descending a stairwell of rumination. Every step creek with the ominous warnings from Cloud. Luigi and Yoshi exchanged worried glances with each other; it sounded intimidating. Would Sora assent to such an outlandish challenge?
"Honestly, I'm not sure," Sora said, appearing vacillated.
"Don't linger on it now," Oak said. "Right now, our focus is on cleaning up from today's event. It's been tiresome, to say the least. We'll send you an email to let you know when the match is. Just send us a response."
"Okay," Sora said, feeling glad to be released from the shackles of choice. For the moment. "Thanks. We'll come back then."
"Oh, and one more thing," Oak said; his expression appeared serious. "Now that the tournament is over, what do you want to do about Pikachu? We can't keep him here forever."
Sora glanced at the little mouse, despondent. "Oh, right."
Pikachu's ears lowered, expressing a dour downpour. They had become so close. He didn't want to say good-bye and resume a normal life. Being a part of the tournament was so much more exciting. And no one could ever replace the bond they formed. It wasn't fair that he had to be robbed of such joy.
Noticing the obtrusive sadness from the two, Isabelle faced the professor with a supplicating look. "Can you hold onto him for a little longer? If Sora says yes, I'm sure Pikachu will want to see him compete."
"I'll do you guys a favor and hold onto him," Red said. "Have another Pikachu at home. He can hang out with him."
"You'll do that, Red?" Sora asked, hopeful.
Red smiled. "After everything we've been though? Not even a question. I'll bring him back when you guys are ready."
Pikachu hopped up and down, squealing in delight. Sora was relieved that time delayed the inexorable, heartbreaking moment of saying goodbye. He would cherish every second of their final visit together.
"Thanks, Red," Sora said. "I owe you one."
"Sure thing." Red let out a challenging smirk. "And that thing is going to be a rematch one day."
Sora chuckled. "I can get behind that. You're on!"
"Couldn't you partake in a less painful game? Like tiddlywinks?" Luigi asked, shaking his head.
With good-byes exchanged, the four departed for Traverse Town.
Outside the stadium, a pair of ominous eyes were locked on the stadium, scrutinizing every single fine detail of its extravagant design. Those eyes were filled with malicious purpose – to tear Pokémon trainers away from their partners, a crucial part of the soul that filled them with life. It was a member of Team Rocket.
She pulled out a cell phone and called Giovani. He soon answered; the cold callous in his tone slithered through the speakers. The Rocket asked, "Sir, when shall we commence?"
On the other end of the line, Giovanni was sitting at his desk, spinning a vibrant drink of wine around in his hand. Delicious desires tickled the roof of his mouth. He had waited for this day to come, where Pokémon and humans would become obeisance to every authoritative tone. Power was the answer to every lingering question: it brought order to the world. But, sometimes, there was nothing wrong in savoring that exquisite taste.
"Very soon," Giovanni said. "Let's give those trainers one last night with their precious Pokémon. None of them will be able to stand up to the son of a legend."
He glanced at one of his monitors to see the white, tall, cat-like Pokémon standing in a dark room, immobile. This hapless creature once had thoughts and feelings. But they had been subdued, locked away within the deep subconscious. Only a hollow husked remained, impelled to obey orders, unable to think for itself. It was a fate worse than death.
Only a small, pleading whimper reached out from the darkness of his mind. No one was going to answer the call.
The group made their way back towards Traverse Town, with the Labo Piece in hand. Isabelle, Yoshi, and Luigi partook in casual conversation. But Sora remained outside the circle, left alone to his own thoughts, staring at the endless canvas of stars. The excitement from the tournament began to dispel. Reality had placed a firm hand on his shoulder, reminding him of the task at hand.
To save Riku and Kairi.
It wasn't going to be easy. One had lost her heart; the other was debauched by the darkness. The only instruments he had in the toolbox of his mind were question; not a single solution seemed obtainable. The task seemed daunting. However, he had conquered the impossible before. All he could do was stay true to his beliefs. It's what keeps him fighting. Along with the support of both his friends and the Keyblade. They kept him from retreating into a depressed receptacle, where hopelessness would serve as comfort.
Trying to take his mind off things, he soon opened the ajar door of his friend's circle and joined the conversation.
But his journey was about to take a turn for the worse. And life as he knew it was going to change forever.
Things would never be the same again.
End of ACT II
A/N: Again, thank you for all your support. ACT II was my toughest challenge yet. And, just like Sora, I never gave up at the daunting challenge. I hope my hard work has paid off. If I can stay focused, I'm hoping to have ACT III finished by summer, if things go smoothly. As always, please visit the social media sites below for updates. Thanks again, and till next time!
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