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A sort of tribute to classic video games, from the NES to the PlayStation. |
| [Introduction]
Since the age of five, I've been a big video game fan. My first taste was on the Super Nintendo, with Jurassic Park. Since that day, I have been hooked. I've seen several generations of hardware come and go, but I'll never forget those first memories, whether it was stomping on goombas with Mario, catching my first Pokemon on my Gameboy, or collecting crystal with Crash Bandicoot on my dad's PlayStation. Think of this story as a sort of love letter to those days, as well as a kind of semi-interactive Saturday Morning Cartoon series. In another realm of reality, there exists the world of Arcadia. Here, all your favorite game characters are more than a cluster of pixels on a screen, they are as real as you and me. Sonic, Mario, Link, all your favorite heroes! But of course, where there are heroes, there are villains seeking to destroy them. Arcadia is under constant threat from the most diabolical villains fiction has ever known. Dracula, Mother Brain, Ganon, the list goes on. But as evil as these vile beings are, none of them are as bad as the dreaded Haxus. This former champion of Arcadia betrayed his oath to defend this world, and now seeks to conquer it by any means. Faced with the annihilation of her home and her subjects, Arcadia's ruler, the beloved Queen Peldra orders her court wizard to summon a new champion. In doing so, he brings our hero Andy Barkley, better known to his friends as Arcade Andy, into the greatest adventure of his life. Thus begins our story. Anyone wishing to join in is more than welcome. Simply message the author and you'll get an invite. Enjoy! |
Episode 1: Arcadia Calls For Aid! Queen Peldra sat upon her throne in the Platinum Palace, her heart weighed down with the woes of her kingdom. She had always done her best to serve and protect the people of Arcadia, as she had sworn to the day of her coronation. But lately, it was becoming much harder to fulfill her duties. There had always been threats to the land, even before her reign. But ever since her former champion betrayed her and the kingdom, it seemed as though the world's problems multiplied tenfold. Undead, alien invaders, monsters of all kinds, you name it, it plagued the kingdom. She wished she could deal with these threats herself, but as Queen,. she was far too important to risk her life like that. The people had always looked up to her and admired her, and if she were to perish, she didn't even want to think of what might happen to her beloved kingdom. Just then, her court wizard, Magnus, entered the throne room. "Your majesty! I think I just may have discovered a solution to our problems!" Inside her mind, Peldra rather doubted that, but she kept that thought to herself. At this point, she was willing to try anything. "What is it, Magnus?" "I have been studying the scrolls, and have discovered a spell that will allow me to bring forth someone from another world to ours. Someone to replace our traitorous former champion as protector of the kingdom! With this spell, I shall summon a warrior, one of extraordinary skill and courage, to vanquish the evil threatening us once and for all!" The Queen's hopes raised a little. Perhaps the old man was onto something. "Very well, Magnus. Begin casting this spell immediately." Meanwhile, far across time and space, on the world known as Earth in the year 1998, there was a sort of tournament being held at a local arcade in the midwestern United States. With a grand prize of $200 on the line, the local kids were enthralled as they stood around the cabinet for Mortal Kombat, the two finalists of the competition battling it out for the prize money. Playing as Johnny Cage was a newcomer on the arcade scene, as well as the town, by the name of Billy Boons. His opponent, playing as Scorpion, was the reigning champ, Andy Barkley. Better known as Arcade Andy to his friends. Andy was something of a local celebrity in his hometown among the young crowd, mostly for his incredible skills at video games. Legend has it, he was able to defeat Ghosts N Goblins on a single quarter! At home, he had every major console available at the time, from Atari 2600 to Nintendo 64. No one could explain his impeccable reflexes and coordination, but one thing was for sure, around these parts, Arcade Andy was the King of Games. Andy silently admired his opponent's skills as they fought. He has some good potential, he thought. But there was less than ten seconds left in the final round, and it was time to finish this. |
| However, that was when the controller snapped, and instead of finishing Johnny off, Scorpion missed by a mile. Billy took advantage of this moment, and delivered a combo that sent Andy's character flying upwards by ten miles - well, into a wall of spikes at any rate. "Fatality!" said the game announcer. Andy looked at the controller that had cost him the win. Billy looked at it. "Oof. Not good," he said. "Say, when they get that replaced, do you want to rematch? I don't like winning because of technical issues." Andy looked at Billy. Anyone else would be cheering at their good luck. At the moment, Billy was offering a chance for Redemption. "Sure," he said. Billy offered his hand. Andy accepted it. "Good show of sportsmanship from both of you," said the arcade manager, and ref. "We can have a rematch in a month or so, once this thing gets repaired, and works properly." "Thanks Zack," said Andy. "Glad you understand," said Billy, as he was given an envelope of cash. "Still, I do have a decent second-place prize for you, Andy," said Zack, as he gave Andy a gift certificate. "A Free 2-topping Party Pizza from Jones Pizza, and 2 liter bottle of pop, and 50 wings. Enjoy." "They do have good pizza and wings," said Andy. Jones was a transplant from Buffalo, and he'd brought along the chicken wings New York state was known for. Everyone in town loved them. |
| Andy and Billy made their way back to their respective homes together, chatting about their recent bout and their favorite games. "So, I gotta say, even though you won because my control snapped, I'm still pretty impressed that you managed to reach me in the tournament." Andy said "Thanks. You're pretty good yourself. I just moved here, and from what I've heard, you're something of a legend to the other kids around town" Andy chuckled "Well, I've had a lot of practice. That's the big perk of having a father that works for a game company. I get to test new games and stuff like that." "Really? That's awesome! Wanna hang out sometime?" "Sure. You seem like a pretty cool guy. How about this Saturday?" "Works for me. See at school tomorrow, I guess?" "Sure, we can sit together at lunch." Upon arriving home, Andy was greeted by his parents. "So, how did the tournament go, son?" His father asked. "Well, let's just say there were some technical difficulties in the final round, and it cost me the grand prize. But on the plus side, I got a certificate for a pizza party, and may have even made a new friend." "Oh, that's great, sweetie." His mother said. "Is it that boy who's family just moved in across the street?" "Yeah. How did you know?" "I just met his parents this morning. They seem like nice folks, and it sounds like you and their son have a lot in common." After dinner, Andy spent the rest of the evening in his room, sharpening his gamer skills like he did every night. After perusing his collection, he decided he was in the mood for something classic tonight. After hooking up the old NES, he put in a copy of Donkey Kong and began to play for an hour or so, until something strange began to happen. At first he thought there was a glitch in the game, because the screen began to go all fuzzy before suddenly going bright white, and steadily growing brighter until he thought he would go blind! Then he felt as though something was pulling him towards the television, before suddenly he was falling through an empty void. Crying out in surprise, he came to a sudden stop as there was yet another bright flash, and as he vision slowly returned, he heard two unfamiliar voices talking, that of a young woman and an old man. |
| "Are you sure that this is whom we're counting on to save us?" the woman asked. "They look young." That was when there was some screaming, and something landed next to Andy. Andy took a look. It was Billy. "Okay, I was just playing my Sega, playing Sonic, and then...." Billy looked around. "Where am I?" |
| "That's odd." The old man commented. "I only meant to summon one hero. Oh well, two for one spell, I guess." Andy and Billy got to their feet, and marveled at the beautiful room, before their eyes came to the young woman sitting on the regal throne in front of them. "Greetings, Heroes." She said "My name is Queen Peldra of Arcadia. I apologize for bringing you here so unexpectedly, but this world is in dire need of saviors of your skill and stature." "Wait, you mean we're in another world?" Billy asked astonished "Indeed." The old man said "I am the royal wizard, Magnus. I summoned you here at her majesty's behest, because my spell deemed you to be the bravest and most skilled heroes in your, or any reality, worthy of aiding our kingdom against the forces that seek to destroy us." "Is this a dream?" Andy asked "Because this all seems so...unreal." "I assure you, this is most definitely real." Magnus said. "You have been chosen to be the Champions of Arcadia, sworn to protect it's people from all threats." "I think you've made a mistake." Andy said "We're not warriors or heroes. We're just average kids in our world. We're not even old enough to drive!" "If my spell chose you, then you must be fit to be champions." Magnus said "Magic never lies." "But what about our homes? Billy asked "We have families, school, and all kinds of others in our world that will notice that we're gone!" "Don't worry. Time is a most tricky thing across dimensions. By the time this adventure of yours is over, it will be like you never left your home dimension." Billy and Andy looked at each other. "What do we do?" Billy asked "Let's just see what they want first." Andy said. "Magnus." Peldra said "Bring forth the Gauntlet of Power." The old wizard reached behind his back, pulling out a silver gauntlet seemingly from nowhere. He approached Andy and kneeled, presenting it to him. Andy took the gauntlet and put it on. "So...uh..what do I do?" "Touch the crystal." Andy noticed a shining crystal embedded on top of the gauntlet's hand. Touching it, a sort of holographic screen appeared, showing several different power up items from the video games of their world. "Each item you see can aid you on your journeys." Magnus explained "Wow!" Andy exclaimed. There was the mushroom from Mario, speed shoes from Sonic, Megaman"s buster cannon and many others. "Use them wisely." Magnus warned "You can only use each item a limited number of times per day. "Hey if these power ups are real in this world, does that mean the characters from the games are real here too?" Billy wondered aloud "So, will you aid us?" Peldra asked. "They looked at each other again, this time with grins on their faces. They were going to get to be in a real life video game! This was a dream come true! "Yes! We'll help you." Andy said "Oh, wonderful!"Peldra cried. "Um, your highness?" Magnus said "I just realized...we only have one Gauntlet of Power. We've never had two champions at once before. What should we give the second?" |
| "I'm certain that we have a Helm of Power, or Boots of Power, or something similar," said Princess Peldra. |
| "Come to think of it, I think I do have something for him." Magnus said, pulling out what resembled a Wrestling Championship belt with another crystal in the center. He handed it to Billy, who asked "So, does this do the same thing as the gauntlet?' "Not exactly." Said Magnus "But it does grant the wearer access to certain skills and abilities." "Like what?" "Super strength, stamina, water breathing, stuff like that. The more you use its abilities, the more effective they become as well." "So it's kind of like being a character in an RPG?" "I don't know what that is, but I'm guessing you're correct." "So, just what sort of evil will we be facing?" Andy asked. Peldra frowned "Too many to name, I'm afraid. Fortunately they're not all coming after us at once at the moment. Right now, the biggest threat would be Dracula, and his beasts on the night. But his fortress only appears after dark. Exactly where, I cannot say. Before you go, I have a gift for you." Magnus handed them each a small sack. Opening them, they found they contained golden coins. "Use those at the store in town to buy supplies. I would suggest stocking up on health items and pokeballs." "There's pokemon here too!?" They exclaimed "Oh, you already know of pokemon? Yes, most fascinating aren't they? Useful, too. Also, touch your crystal again, there's something else you should know." Doing so, a display showed a green bar, as well as a X3 counter, and a 0. "That green bar is your health. If you take too much damage, you will lose a Life, of which you each currently have three. The zero in the corner is your score. You gain points by defeating enemies and completing tasks. Earn a thousand total points to get an extra life. Whatever you do, do not run out of lives." "What happens if we do?" Billy asked worriedly. "I think you know already."The boys gulped, but quickly regained their confidence. The two of them were practically gaming prodigies back home. Together, they should be unstoppable! Now, Magnus, escort them to the stables and give them two of my best horses. Good luck, our Champions." |
| "I will say one thing, let's not get killed," said Billy. "Heard of this new game coming out next year or so involving a raccoon that steals stuff. Sounds like fun." |
| "I think I heard of that too. What was it called? Sneaky, or something like that?" Magnus lead them to the royal stables as Peldra commanded, presenting them with two horses. "These are her majesty's favorite thoroughbreds. She's rather fond of them, so make sure you bring them back in one piece and alive." "Just where are we going on this quest, anyway?" Andy asked "You'll have to wait until after dark, I'm afraid. That's when Dracula's castle typically appears. In the meantime, I suggest you get aquainted with your new abilities and build up your lives and scores. Perhaps catch some pokemon while you're at it. I'm sure even with your skills, you'll need all the help you can get." Thanking Magnus, they mounted their steeds and rode into the city in search of the shop to stock up on supplies. |
| "Well, whatever happens, I doubt that anyone will believe this," said Billy. |
| Andy nodded in agreement. "Let's agree to just keep this between us when we get home. Otherwise, we'll probably end up in the nut house. " |
| "Can we get going?" the one horse asked, in a distinctly male voice. "We're burning daylight." "I have to agree," said the other, in a female voice. "We need to get there before dark." |
| "You can talk?!" Both boys exclaimed. "Of course we can." Said the male. "Do you have names?" Billy asked "I'm Silver." Said the male. "Daisy." Said the Female "Anyway, as I said, we should get a move on before sundown." Silver said. "Alright. But first, we should head to the shop for supplies." Said Andy. The two horses lead them through the streets, passing many NPCs along the way. The boys couldn't help but marvel at the sight of characters from their favorite games in the flesh. Finally reaching the shop, they entered the store to find the shopkeeper behind the counter. "Hi there! What can I get you today?" They were in awe at the variety of items and gadgets.Then they both looked down at the pouch of coins they each had received, realizing they probably wouldn't be able to afford most of the stuff for sale. "You'd think if our quest was so important, the Queen would have given us more money for supplies." Billy said with a slightly annoyed tone. "Wait, you work for Queen Peldra?" The shopkeeper asked. That was when he noticed the Power Gauntlet and Belt. "Why didn't you say so? Agents of the queen get a special discount!" Browsing the shop's stocks, they stacked up on food for health recovery, and 25 pokeballs each. Exiting the shop, they mounted their steeds and rode out of the city. The horses stopped after reaching a clearing in a forest to the east. "We have a few hours until sundown." Said Silver. "You should probably get some practice in before Dracula's castle shows up. You're going to need it." |
| "So, just how do we practice with these things?" Billy asked. Silver chuckled. "We'll help you with that," the stallion said. "Get off us, and we'll set a few things up." At this, Billy and Andy got off the horses. That was when a bright light appeared, and the stallion became an armored knight in shining armor. As for the mare, she became an archer sort of person wearing a brown outfit. "Never heard of a game with your sort of characters," said Billy. "It hasn't been written yet," said Daisy. |
| "So even characters from future games are here too?" The knight and archer nodded. "So, just what did you have in mind for practicing our abilities?" Asked Andy. "In your case, you should refrain from using your power ups for now, since you have limited use of them." Silver said "As for your friend, let's see how his reflexes hold up. Daisy will fire an arrow at him, and he can try to dodge it. Or, more impressively, catch it." Drawing her bow and stepping back several yards, Daisy called out "Ready?" "Ready!" Said Billy, trying not to sound nervous. |
| That was when Daisy looked at the arrow. "Boxing Glove." The arrow change into a brown boxing glove. Silver chuckled. "No damage, but you won't want to get hit by it." "What would it do?" Billy asked. "Knock you out," said Silver. "Useful for taking foes alive." "What sort of game is yours?" Andy asked. "Science-Fantasy," said Silver. "Idea is that a large number of genetically modified animals get exposed to magic. Some became Heroes, others became Villains. It's about what do do with humans following a WW3 type of situation - Help them rebuild, and have a joined civilization, or enslave them to use to build our own, or something in the middle. Different paths for the characters, even for me and Daisy. I could be a Hero, a Villain, or something in the middle. Same with everyone else, even the supposed Villains might actually be Heroes in the right situation." |
| "If you're from a future game," Andy asked. "How come you already exist?" "The scientist made us," Silver said. "She creates the content for future games." "Cool," said Billy. "When can we meet her?" "Right now," a female voice said out of nowhere. The boys saw what was coming: a cat with eagle feathers on its arms and eagle legs dressed in a tank top, and cargo shorts with a belt came flying onto the scene before landing on the ground. "Wait a minute," said Andy. "That's the scientist?" "Sammy van Catsing, creator of future game content, at your service!" the creature said in the female voice. "So you created Silver and Daisy," Andy said. "And other characters from future video games," Sammy added. She held up a device that resembled a Game Boy Advance in front of the boys. A blue beam hit Andy, and a red beam hit Billy. Neither of them were hurt, but the screen flashed on Sammy's device. "According to my data scanner," she said. "You're Andy, and you're Billy." "You invent stuff, too?" Billy asked. "I also invent powerups," Sammy said. "I can show you my lab, and you can continue your training there." She picked up a remote control and zapped it at the boys. Sure enough, there they were in Sammy's lab among a chain of treehouses linked together by solar panel bridges. |
| "Nice place." Andy said, admiring her lab setup. "Thank you! I built it all myself! Now then, I believe you were about to test your friend's reflexes. Follow me, I have just the place to do it." Sammy led them to a part of her lab with a sort of target practice area. "I usually use this spot to test new weapons and such, but it should do for this little test as well." Billy stood at the end of the range, and Daisy readied her boxing glove arrow."Here it comes!" She said, releasing her shot. |
| "Purr-fect dodging," Sammy said when Billy dodged the arrow. "If I do say so myself." Andy's stomach growled, but not too loud. He needed to eat something. A hot dog would hit the spot. If there was one thing he enjoyed as much as video games, he loved eating. He walked up to the experiment table and grabbed a vial of yellow substance. To him, it looked like mustard. "Careful!" Sammy warned as she flew over and grabbed it from him. "That's Gigantium! I use it to create bosses that could appear in video games in the future." "Any possibility there could be a video game with a jack-in-the-box as a boss?" Andy asked. "I've created one," Sammy said, showing the boys a video of said boss. "Brlieve me, if Giganium were to fall into the wrong hands, it would lead to chaos." " |
| "By the way, have either of you caught any pokemon yet?" Sammy asked. The two boys shook their heads. "I think you'll find them incredibly useful on your journeys. As a matter of fact, I happen to have some starters around here somewhere you can have! Even ones you've never seen before that won't be released in your world for years! If I can find them..." She began to dig through a pile of various inventions, tossing them to the side. "Hmm...Let's see, I know they were here before. Aha! Here we go!" She tossed a pair of pokeballs to them. Eager to see what they got, they released the pokemon inside. "Alright, a Pikachu!" "What's this one?" Billy said, looking down at his pokemon, which was one he'd never seen before. "It's a Fennekin, a fire fox." Sammy said. "I'm sorry they're so weak now, but they're the only ones I could find. But take care of them and train them well, and I'm sure they'll become real powerhouses! Oh, and you'll be needing these!" She handed them each a pokedex device. "Use those when you encounter new pokemon, and it will identify them and their abilities." "Thanks!" Andy and Billy said, unable to believe this was really happening. |
| While Sammy was explaining Pokémon and moves that won't exist for years, Andy was chasing his Pikachu toward a strange looking computer that looked like a slot machine from a casino in Las Vegas It jumped onto the keyboard, starting up the computer. "What kind of computer is this?" Billy asked when he heard the commotion. "Surely, you've heard of the Mario Kart franchise?" Sammy inquired. "Sure," Andy and Billy responded simultaneously. "Whenever you choose a racer, you usually have the same kart every race. This has been something I've been working on to change the game in the future. You can customize your own kart with this. Want to give it a try?" "This may come as a surprise to you," Billy said. "We're too young to drive." "In Arcadia," Sammy said. "You don't need a license to drive a kart." Andy stepped forward to give it a try. He slid the dial to see the different kart options. "It has bikes, too?" He asked excitedly. "That and ATVs," Sammy said. "The second slot contains tires, and the last one is for gliders. Once you two finish your karts, come to the training track, and I'll explain." Andy chose the coolest kart he could choose and added monster tires and a flower glider. "Now step on that pressure plate over there," Sammy instructed. "And the kart will accommodate your weight class." Andy obediently stepped on the pressure plate, and since he was heavier than Billy, his kart was the right size for his weight size. Billy had selected the coolest bike he could choose and added roller tires and a super glider. After it was finished, Billy climbed aboard his bike, and he and Andy met at Sammy's practice course. |
| "Since you've never driven before, we'll practice on a simple track. Ready..set...GO!" Sammy said. |
| Andy stepped on the pedal on the left side of his cart, and it took off like a rocket. "Never mind," Billy said. As Andy drove down the track, he was coming up to a strange panel bearing a circle pattern. He drove over it, and his tires turned sideways. Before he knew it, he was driving upside-down. "Zero gravity!" He said. "Cool!" Meanwhile, Billy was getting used to his bike as he drove off after his opponent. Further down the track, Andy was headed for a ramp. As he took off of it, his glider opened up, and his tires went back to their original position. He was flying through the air. "To infinity and beyond!" He exclaimed, his arms spread out like wings. "Andy, you let go of the wheel!" Sammy warned as she flew up to his side. "You're going off the track!" But it was too late. Andy was already on the ground in his kart. He began to drive through various terrains, crashing through bushes. "I'm coming, Andy," Sammy said. She started using the kart customization computer to create her own kart. "I'm getting in on this," Silver said, taking control of the computer and creating his own kart. "Me too," said Daisy when it was her turn. Finally, Sammy had her chance to create her own kart. |
| The three of them raced after Andy. "Andy, hit the breaks!" Sammy called out. "I'm trying!" He replied "They're jammed!" Sammy activated her turbo boost, catching up with him. "Hop on!" Andy jumped from his kart to Sammy's moments before his went slamming into a barrier. Coming to a stop, Sammy turned to face Andy with a look of concern. "Are you alright?" "Yeah. Thanks. I would have lost a life for sure if not for you." "Number one rule of racing, always keep your hands on the wheel." Billy was able to catch up along with Silver and Daisy. "I think that's enough excitement for now." Billy said "We have a mission to get to." "Right." Said Sammy. "I'll be sending you back now. I'll be in touch. Good luck to all of you!" Pulling out the device from before, she zapped the party back to Arcadia. When they arrived, it was dark and the moon was full. In the sky was a huge, menacing castle. "I take it that's Dracula's fortress?" Billy asked. Daisy and Silver nodded. "Castlevania. At least Sammy saved us the trouble of having to find it." That was when they noticed they were standing in the center of a graveyard. Billy and Andy couldn't help but chuckle. "How much more cliche can you get?" Suddenly, the ground began to quake as hundreds of skeletons and rotting zombies began to rise up from the graves. "Arm yourselves!" Shouted Silver as he and Daisy readied their weapons. |
| "Where's a mace or a club at?" Billy asked. "That's what they recommend in that D&D game thing." |
| As they fought off the monsters, Andy and Billy's Pokémon had sent the zombies packing. "I hope we don't see any werewolves," Billy said. "I don't want to get bitten by one of those," Andy added. The group heard howling in the distance. "Spoke too soon," Daisy said. The group noticed a pack of werewolves in the distance, heading in their direction. "Get ready for more!" Silver warned. Before they knew it, they were battling monsters again. "There's too many of them!" Andy exclaimed. Billy and Fennekin managed to drive off half of the werewolves. Andy and Pikachu stepped forward with Silver and Daisy backing them up. "That's all of them!" Billy said as the last of the werewolves were driven off. The party began to proceed through the graveyard when they heard someone crying for help nearby. They turned to see a werewolf with his arm caught under a fallen statue. He was fat, wore torn pants, a necklace, and had a goatee and slightly shaggy fur. "I know he's a monster," Andy said. "But we've got to help him!" They rushed up to him and tried lifting the statue, but it was too heavy. "I've got this," Daisy said. "My exploding arrow should do the trick." She pulled out a black arrow with an explosive on the tip, inserted it into her bow, pulled the string, and let go. ZIP! The arrow landed in the statue. "Better stand back," Daisy warned. The group ran for cover and waited until KA-BOOM! The bomb exploded, shattering the statue. The werewolf was free, but his arm and eye weren't. "All right, werewolf," Silver said. "I'm not a werewolf," the wolf said. "I just want to help you!" "Are you lying?" Silver said. "No," the wolf said. "You think I'm the big bad wolf? I'm the villain of every story?" "Why would we think that?" Andy said. "I don't want to be seen as a monster," the wolf said. "I just want to be a hero in my own game." Andy, Daisy, Silver, and Billy huddled together for a minute. Then they came to a decision. "Okay, wolf," Billy said. "We'll make you a deal: you help us defeat Dracula, and we'll see if we can have you be in your own game." "I don't really have a name," the wolf said. "Who would want to play a game where the hero is a wolf with one arm and one eye?" "How about we call you Wolfclops?" Andy said. "I don't mind that," the wolf said. "From now on, my name is Wolfclops. Now, how can I help you if I have one arm and one eye?" "Perhaps Sammy can help," Andy said. "She creates content for future video games. She might be able to build you a new arm and eye." |
| "Just how do we contact her, anyway?" Asked Andy. Daisy pulled out a device that resembled a Gameboy. Pushing a button, a video of Sammy appeared on screen. "Yes? Don't tell me you need my help again already? I thought you were more capable champions than that." Explaining the situation, Sammy pondered for a bit. "Hmmm. I don't really have anything like that at the moment. But I can build it! It will take some time though. Just tell your wolf friend to stay put and I'll have it ready as soon as possible. " "There you have it." Said Silver " You wouldn't know a way to actually get to Dracula's castle, would you?" Wolfclops shrugged. "Not really." "Look through your power ups." Billy said to Andy "See if there's anything that let's you fly." |
| "Really?" Billy said. "I know you're heavier than me, but can you lift us all up there?" "I can try," Andy said. As he selected Icarus's Wings, they began to grow out of his back. He flew a few feet off the ground and picked up his party. Soon, he was flying them all the way to Dracula's fortress. Upon entry, he could hear something coming down the hallway. "Get ready to fight," Silver said. As they moved in, they could see the shadow of the figure getting larger. They moved in for the fight. But what they saw was a little purple cat-like Pokémon. "I wonder if this is in Castlevania," Billy said, fetching his Pokedex to scan it. "Purrloin, the Devious Pokémon and a Dark-type Pokémon," it said. "Purrloin's cute act is a ruse. It steals its victim's items once they're distracted." "There's another Pokémon," Andy said. The Pokémon looked like a shadow with a golden mask in an arm-like appendage. Andy retrieved his Pokedex as well. "Yamask, the Spirit Pokémon and a Ghost-type," it said. "The mask Yamask carries has the face from when it was human. Sometimes, it will look at it and cry." "Two more Pokémon that haven't been introduced yet," Billy said. "And we're the first people to see them!" This is incredible!" He and Andy grabbed the Poke Balls containing their respective Pokémon and brought the two out. "Pikachu, Thunderbolt on Yamask!" Andy commanded. "Fennekin, Flame Charge on Purrloin!" Billy commanded. Both Pokémon followed their respective trainers' orders, and Yamask and Purrloin were shaking when the attacks hit. "Here goes nothing," Andy said, throwing a Poke Ball at Yamask. "I hope this works," said Billy, tossing one at Purrloin. The two Poke Balls started shaking. After three shakes, they locked themselves shut. Andy picked Yamask's Poke Ball, and Billy picked up Purrloin's. "Wait until Sammy sees we caught our first Pokémon," Andy said, patting his stomach. "When Purrloin is introduced," Billy said. "I want to use it as my primary battler." "You can talk about your futures later," Daisy said. "Right now, you have to defeat Dracula." "Ooh, sorry," Andy said. "Wolfclops, where do we get a map of this place?" "There should one around here somewhere," Wolfclops said, checking the perimeter with his remaining eye. |
| They spotted a chest in a dusty corner of the room. "Could be a map in there. "Billy went up to open it. "Wait! Don't open-!" Silver cried out, but it was too late. The instant Billy touched the chest, it sprung open, revealing a wicked looking maw lined with razor sharp teeth inside. Before Billy could respond, it chomped down on his upper half, slamming its lid repeatedly as though it was chewing on him. "Damn mimics." Silver sighed "This is why you should always be wary around random chests." "Help...me...!" Billy gasped between chomps. His health bar was being depleted with each slam of the lid. Andy grabbed Billy's ankles and tried to pull him free, but the mimic started to swallow Billy down, dragging Andy along with him. Silver and Daisy looked at each other. "Shall we help them?" Daisy asked. "Not just yet." Said Silver "I think this could be a good learning opportunity for them." |
| Billy managed to press something on his belt, and suddenly, he was coated in metal. The mimic's teeth soon busted. |
| Before they knew it, the two boys began to burst out of the mimic with Billy's metal powerup. Andy utilized the Master Sword from the Gauntlet of Power and slashed at the mimic, killing it. "Sorry about that," Billy apologized to Silver and Daisy. "I hope Sammy built something to identify mimics." "As a matter of fact," Silver said, pulling out a device resembling a Nintendo DS. "She gave this to me before we left for the mission." He pressed a button to turn it on. Suddenly, the screen started showing what looked like a radar. "This is so cool!" Andy said. Silver handed it to him. As they were walking down the hall, they could hear someone approaching them. The boys' Pokémon prepared to attack. Soon, the figure emerged from the shadows. It was a human with blonde hair and was dressed like a warrior. "What are you doing here?" He asked. "The minute I saw you get attacked by that mimic, I thought you'd be done for, but you managed to get out of that one, no problem." "Hey! I know you!" Andy exclaimed. "You're Simon Belmont!" "The one and only." Upon noticing the Gauntlet of Power and Billy's belt, Simon was surprised. "So, you've been chosen by the queen to take down the evil within Arcadia," he said. "Magnus brought them to Arcadia," Daisy said. "Well, it looks like you seem to have lost some health," Simon said. He handed Billy a vial of liquid. Then he placed his hand on his shoulder. "Drink it," he said. "You can regain that health you lost from fighting that mimic." "Thanks," Billy said before drinking the potion. "We were looking for a map," Andy said. "Do you know where we can find one?" |
| "I just happen to have one right here." Simon showed them a map of the castle. Except none of the rooms were labeled and the whole place seemed to be a jumble of randomly generated rooms. "Looks like this will be harder than we thought." Andy said "In games like this, the final boss is always on the top floor." Billy said "So we just need to find a way to reach the top." Just then, there was as hideous screeching sound that echoed through the halls. They looked to see dozens of disembodied heads with snakes for hair come flying towards them. "Medusa heads!" Silver said "Don't let them touch you!" Simon cracked his whip, Silver swung his sword, Daisy fired her bow and the boys used their abilities but the heads just kept coming. For everyone they destroyed, three more seemed to appear. |
| Wolfclops scanned every perimeter of the room as much as he could with his only eye. "Up there!" He exclaimed, pointing to a crystal, hanging from the ceiling. "That must be the power source!" "I've got this!" Daisy said, aiming her bow at the ceiling. She fired a bomb arrow at the crystal, and it was wedged in tight. KA-BOOM! The crystal burst into pieces, some of them impaling the Medusa heads. "I hope more don't show up," Andy said. "I don't want to turn to stone." The group waited for a few seconds, but no more Medusa heads showed up. "Phew!" Billy said. "I guess that takes care of them." "We're not out of the woods yet," Simon said. "We still have to get to the top floor." Andy stepped forward to find the staircase to the next floor. "I hope we don't run into any other monsters while we're here," Billy said. "I wouldn't want to see a mummy." |
| They found a staircase leading up to the next floor. They stepped through the door at the top, to find themselves in a large room. But what surprised them was standing in the center of said room was a group of adventurers like them. In fact, it WAS them! Exact duplicates of all six of them plus their pokemon, preparing to attack! "Doppelgangers!" Said Simon "They have all the same abilities as us. Prepare yourselves!" They charged forward to meet their doubles in battle. But it wasn't long before things got confusing. "Hey! Will you stop that? I'm the real me!" "Watch where you're swinging that thing! I'm not a double!" "Everybody just focus on your own duplicate! They want us to fight each other!" |
| "Where's the thing that Prevents Friendly Fire at?" Billy asked, as he went through his belt. |
| Billy pressed the button on his belt, and a wave of blue energy began to sweep the doppelgangers away. "I think it's working," Wolfclops said. The doppelgangers' ugly blob-like forms were beginning to be revealed. Andy pressed the jewel on the Gauntlet of Power, and he had summoned the X-Buster. "I haven't seen this since the last Mega Man X game!" He exclaimed. He put it on his arm and fired a Homing Torpedo. They were locked onto the doppelgangers. One hit, and they were history. "Phew!" He said. "I'm sure Sammy could invent something that can identify a doppelganger." "You might want to take it up with her," Simon said. Andy and Billy looked at each other. This was going to be a huge challenge. Before anyone could say anything, the communicator started vibrating. Andy whipped it out and pressed the power button. Sammy appeared on the screen. "Good news," she said. "I've finished that arm for this Wolfclops, and it should be ready when you return from your journey." "Wait," Billy said. "Simon came along, and we battled Medusa heads and doppelgangers. Do you think you can prepare something that can identify the doppelgangers?" "That will be a challenge," Sammy said. "But I think I can manage it. In the meantime, if you come across any more monsters, you know what to do." "Yes," Andy said. "Battle them." He hung up and put the communicator away. "Wait!" Daisy said as he was about to step on a tile on the floor. |
| Too late. Andy stepped on the tile, which activated a trap door directly beneath his feet. Next thing Andy knew, he was heading down a long chute that twisted and turned like a sliding board. It would have been fun, had he been expecting it and he knew where he was going to end up. When he finally reached the bottom, it was pitch black with only a pair of glowing yellow eyes visible in the darkness. Scratch that, make it three pairs of eyes. And a deep, menacing growl. |
| As soon as the shield and light were activated, Andy could see what he was up against. "Cerebrus!" He exclaimed. It wasn't long before Pikachu, Billy, Fennekin, and Wolfclops came down the chute and landed where he did. "We had to come down," Billy said. "You and I champions and champions stick together, right?" Andy held out his hand, and Billy helped him to his feet. Cerebrus lowered one of its heads and prepared to headbutt the group. Wolfclops jumped in front of the boys and thrust his belly at it really hard, giving it a headache. "Wolfclops," Andy said. "You saved our lives." "You saved mine," Wolfclops said. "It's the least I can do." "Pikachu, Thunderbolt!" Andy commanded. "Fennekin, Flame Charge!" Billy commanded. The two Pokémon heeded their respective trainers' commands and hit the two remaining heads. As soon as Cerebrus regained consciousness, it came charging at the group. "I think the attacks made it angrier," Billy said. Just then, a young man appeared out of nowhere and drew his whip to attack the monster. The group ran for the nearest exit to the next floor as the man drove Cerebrus and ran to catch up with them. As soon as everyone was reunited with Simon, Daisy, and Silver, the young man came up to them. "He saved us from Cerebrus," Andy said. "My name's Richter Belmont," the man said. Belmont, thought Andy. "How are you related to Simon Belmont?" Billy asked. "He's my ancestor," Richter said. "It's so amazing that we get to meet each from across time!" He and Simon shook hands, and the group was surprised at this, except for Billy. "Where's Fennekin?" He asked. "Looking for something?" A voice said. The party turned around and saw a pale-skinned man holding Fennekin by the neck. "Dracula!" They all exclaimed. "Give Fennekin back!" Billy demanded. "I don't think so," Dracula said. "If you want this, you'll have to come to the top floor. Don't keep me waiting!" And with that, he turned into bats and flew Fennekin to the top floor. "You're going to pay for this, Dracula!" Billy angrily said. |
| Racing up another nearby staircase, they came to a room that looked like the inside of a giant clock, with dozens of spinning gears and swinging pendulums."A platforming section?" Andy said "Shouldn't be too bad. But just to be sure..." He cycled through his power ups until he came to a device that looked like an old fashioned stopwatch. "This should do the trick." He pressed a button on the watch and everything around them began to slow dramatically before coming to a halt. "There we go. Should make this part much easier. Come on, we only have thirty seconds!" |
| As they came to the last platform, Billy came to the staircase with Purrloin's Poke Ball in hand. "Wait!" Andy said, grabbing him by the shoulder. "Didn't we weaken Yamask and Purrloin before we caught them?" "Yeah," Billy said. "That means they could be defeated, no problem! We need a Pokémon Center!" Billy looked around the room as time began to return to normal. He saw a machine in the corner. "Do you suppose that's what's used at a Pokémon Center?" He asked. Andy approached the machine and placed Yamask's Poke Ball in the slot. Within minutes, it began to flash. "Yamask should be as good as new," he said. Billy placed Purrloin's Poke Ball in the machine, and it flashed after a while. "Purrloin, if you're not healed," he said. "I'm proud to be your trainer. Hang on, Fennekin. We're coming to save you." He raced to the staircase and let Purrloin out of its Poke Ball. The two climbed the stairs, and sure enough, there was Dracula, still holding Fennekin by the neck. "I came to the top floor," Billy said. "Now let Fennekin go!" "I'd return that Pokémon if I were you," Dracula warned, holding Fennekin over the edge. Fennekin started getting angry. Then, it started to glow. It started to change forms. Its front legs became arms, and it began to get bigger. When the glowing stopped, it looked different. "It evolved!" Billy exclaimed. The Pokémon that was once Fennekin turned around and shot a Flamethrower at Dracula's face, causing him to let go. Billy raced to the cliff and grabbed its hand. Then he pulled it up to safety. The rest of the party rushed into the room. "Let's see what you've become," he said, pulling out his Pokedex. "Braixen, the Fox Pokémon, and Fire-type," it said. "Using friction from its tail fur, Braixen sets the twig in its tail on fire for battle. The flame can also signal allies." "Incredible!" Andy said. "Fennekin has an evolution!" The group prepared for battle as Dracula got back up for another round. |
| Dracula transformed into a swarm of bats, encircling the group. "Come on." Andy said "Is that all you can do?" He immediately regretted saying that, as the swarm redacted and Dracula took on his final form of a hulking gargoyle-like monster. Billy just looked at Andy with an incredulous glare. "You and your big mouth." |
| "There's got to be a mega flashlight on this thing," Billy said, working his belt. |
| As Billy got out the mega flashlight, Andy brought Yamask and Pikachu to battle. "Watch the ground!" Daisy shouted. Andy tried to watch his feet, but of course, someone of his size wouldn't be able to see his feet. "Braixen, Flame Charge!" Billy commanded. "Purrloin, Night Slash!" "Pikachu, Thunderbolt!" Andy commanded. "Yamask, Shadow Ball!" The boys' Pokémon prepared to attack Dracula, but he shot a blast of dark energy towards them. At that moment, Billy activated the mega flashlight and shined it on the dark energy, which started to disintegrate before their eyes. Dracula caught wind of this and got ready to strike Billy. "Pick on someone your own size!" Andy said, consuming the mushroom from Mario. With that, he started to grow in size. He was the exact same size as Dracula. The two began to stare each other down. It began to turn into a sumo match between the two titans. "I'd better be careful," Andy told himself. "One hit from him, and I return to normal." Dracula was ready to knock him off his feet when Billy tried to start up the mega flashlight. |
| Suddenly, Dracula found himself blinded by a sudden, intense light. Mega or not, it was still just an ordinary flashlight and couldn't actually harm him. But still, it gave Andy an opening, allowing him to deliver a sucker punch upside the vampire's head. "Belmonts!" "Andy called out "Now! Finish him!" Simon and Richter charged forward, raising their Vampire Killer whips for the final blow. Dazed from Andy's punch, Dracula barely even registered what was going on. |
| "Hopefully, him being blinded might give us an edge a while yet," said Billy. |
| Andy managed to help Dracula to his feet. "You're going to need a dentist," he said, getting ready to punch the vampire. Dracula grabbed his fist before the punch landed. Wolfclops came forward to the fight. "Fat one!" Dracula commanded. "Take him down!" "I don't take orders from you anymore!" Wolfclops said. "And you mustn't call me fat!" With that, he grabbed Dracula's arm and pulled him away from Andy. Simon and Richter unleashed their vampire killer whips on the vampire, ending him for good. "Thanks for helping," Andy said to Wolfclops as he returned to his normal size. The two shook hands while Braixen walked up to where Dracula stood and picked up a scrap of paper. It walked up to Billy and handed it to him. Before he could read it, the group found themselves being whisked away to Peldra's castle. "Congratulations," the queen said as they approached the throne room. "Dracula has been defeated, and you have proven you've got what it takes to be champions. Also, the scientist has some news for you." Magnus and Sammy came forward, and Sammy pulled out the transporter again. "I believe what Sammy has in store for you will be useful in the future," Magnus said. Sammy aimed the transporter at the group, and they were all transported to her lab. "You, sir," she said to Wolfclops. "I've finished your new arm. Plus, I've found an eyepatch for you." She handed him an eyepatch and presented him with a robotic arm. She fitted it to his body and strapped it around his chest like a bandolier. Then, she began to strap the buckle around his stomach. She had to loosen it so it would prevent discomfort. "Sorry," he said. "I like to eat all the time." Andy winked at him, letting him know they had something in common. "All done," Sammy said. "By the way, I've fixed your kart, Andy." "Oh, and we've caught new Pokémon," Andy told her as he and Billy showed her their Pokémon teams. |
| "Excellent!" Sammy said "Be sure to treat them well. That way, they'll do even better in battle. Now, before you go back to your world, Peldra wants to speak with you." Sending them back to Peldra's throne room, they wished Sammy farewell until their next adventure. "Now then, take a look at your stats." Peldra said. Andy and Billy did so, and were surprised to see their scores ha gone up quite a good amount, as did their levels. "Only your first mission, and already you've improved." Peldra smiled "Seems Magnus's spell chose right after all." Suddenly, the room grew dark as a black vortex appeared, with two glowing red eyes in its center. "I hear you have some new champions, your highness." Said a menacing voice. "Matthew! You traitor! How dare you show yourself in my palace after what you've done!" The princess said angrily. "I am no longer Matthew. Nor am I your puppet anymore. I am Haxus, and I shall conquer this world and its denizens. Once I do, I shall parade you and your champion's bodies from every corner of the realm as the fallen figures of a pathetic ideal that you are!" "Begone!" Said Magnus, dissipating the vortex with a wave of his hand. "What was that?" Andy asked "That was our former champion." Peldra said "Before he betrayed me and the kingdom he swore to protect. Now he's the greatest threat we've ever seen. But you are far from ready to face him. In the meantime, return to your world and rest, both of you. You've earned it." Waving farewell to their new friends, Andy and Billy returned to Earth through another portal. Until their next adventure. Episode 2: Let The Games Begin! It's been about two weeks since Billy and Andy defeated Dracula with the help of their allies. Currently they were in school, gym class to be exact.They were currently playing dodge ball, and so far nobody had managed to hit them. Years of honing their reflexes at the arcade and on gaming systems had their advantages. But there was one other student, Trent, that was determined to knock them out of the game. He was deliberately trying to him them with ball after ball, and they dodged every shot, which only made Trent more frustrated. |
| "He needs to learn a few tricks," said Billy. "Such as fake outs and leading the target." |
| "You two better shut up!" Trent shouted. "I've knocked out everyone except you two, Laurel & Hardy!" As he was about to throw the last ball, the coach blew his whistle and declared Andy and Billy's team the winners. "You'll pay for this, pig and twig," Trent snarled through clenched teeth. Meanwhile, in Arcadia, Wolfclops was given the job as Sammy's partner in the lab until she got him his own game. "I see that you have eagle legs," he said. "Are there any other eaglecats?" Sammy frowned. "You're looking at the last of her kind," she said sadly. "I came from a thriving village of eagleccats. I was the daughter of the village leader and his wife. I was just a baby when a megatsunami was headed for our village. My parents put me in a canoe, and before I knew it, the megatsunami carried the canoe and me away. I drifted for days until I came to the shores of Arcadia. Peldra was being crowned queen at the time. She heard me crying and sent her guards to investigate. The captain called the queen and Magnus to see. I opened my eyes, and Magnus was the first thing I saw. Peldra appointed him as my guardian, and he made me his apprentice. I didn't fly until I was 5 years old. When I was working with potions, I created my first video game character: Mr. Game & Watch. Magnus saw something in me that could be useful. So, I started creating more video game content and powerups over the years, and I'm still doing it to this day. Now, tell me about yourself. Where did you come from?" |
| "Pretty much what you would expect." Wolfclops said "I was banished from my pack after getting sick and tired of serving one dark lord after another. So I wondered from place to place as an outcast, then I met the Champions and their friends. You know the rest." "Well, until I can get around to making your game, you're welcome to stay here." Sammy replied. "Thank you. That means a lot. When do you think you will get to my game, anyway?" Sammy shrugged "Honestly, who knows? As you can see, I am often very busy with one project or another. Might be next week, might be years from now. I can't make any promises." Wolfclops nodded understandingly. "It's okay. Take as long as you need." Back in the throne room, Peldra had just received a message sealed with a dragon insignia. Oh no, she thought. She recognized that seal immediately. "Magnus!" She called "What is it, your highness?" "Summon the Champions. It's time for the tournament again." "You don't mean..?" "Yes. I do." "But my lady, they're not ready for such a task!" "Which is no doubt why we've been challenged. Shao Kahn thinks he can score an easy victory. But there is no refusing a challenge to Mortal Kombat. Summon them immediately." "As you command, your Majesty." |
| It could be said that school bullies had to be big and strong, and dumb. That last part was wrong. At least, in this case. Trent was playing some new game. It had a werewolf with a bionic arm, and a cyborg eye. It looked different, that was for sure. Pre-release, actually. The dumb thing was, instead of being the usual monster that destroyed things, they were trying to be the Hero. That was when something strange happened. His television changed, and somehow, became a whirlpool, and like something out of that Jumanji movie, sucked him into it. Next thing Trent knew, he was face-to-face with the very werewolf he had tried to play as. The werewolf looked at someone dressed as a wizard. "That ain't Andy or Billy." |
| "Sorry we're late," Andy said as he and Billy entered the throne room. "Trent, what are you doing here?!?" "That's what I want to know," Trent snapped back. "If you two had something to do with this, you'll be needing stitches, Abbott and Costello!" The guards held him at spear point to keep him still. "Silence!" The queen ordered. "You do not speak to our champions that way." "They have been summoned here to save Arcadia," Magnus explained. He produced a ring with his magic, and it slid onto Trent's finger. "I guess three champions could work together," Queen Peldra said. "Anyway, your next journey involves the Mortal Kombat tournament. Shao Khan would like to challenge you." "We'd better get to the lab," Wolfclops said. Silver and Daisy approached the group, and they all headed for Sammy's lab. "We should be at the tree with the elevator," Daisy said. She pressed a button on the trunk of the tree, and a door opened up, revealing an elevator. They all entered, and up they went. Once at the top, Sammy greeted them and handed Andy and Billy their Pokémon. When she saw Trent, she pulled out her scanner and scanned him. "Your name is Trent," she said. "And a cat like you is going to be mincemeat," Trent said. He reached out and picked her up by the neck. She grabbed his wrist with one of her talons and grabbed his tongue. "What's the matter?" She asked. "Cat got your tongue?" They both let go of each other, and Trent looked at her. "How come they get Pokémon and I don't?" He asked. Wolfclops heard a noise coming from a corner of the treehouse and picked up a lizard-looking Pokémon. "Sobble!" Sammy exclaimed. "I've been looking all over for you!" Andy got out his Pokedex and scanned it. "Sobble, the Water Lizard Pokémon, and a Water type," it said. "Sobble cries when it's scared. Attackers won't resist weeping because its tears pack the chemical punch of 100 onions. " "There is no way I'm catching that thing," Trent protested. Sammy whipped out Sobble's Poke Ball and pressed the button. Sobble entered its Poke Ball just like that. "It's the only one we have," Sammy said. "It looks like you have no choice." With that, she handed Sobble's Poke Ball to him. "Did you hear about the Mortal Kombat tournament?" Billy asked Sammy. "Exactly," she responded. "That's why I've contacted your teachers." Oh, brother, Trent thought. The teachers are here, too. At first glance, the teachers didn't look like their teachers at school. "I know them," Andy said. "They're from Street Fighter. That's Ryu, E. Honda, Blanka, Guile, Ken, Chun-Li, Zangief, and Dhalsim." "Or as I like to call them, the Elite Eight," Sammy said. "They can teach you their moves so you can compete in the tournament." "Will I stretch like Dhalsim?" Billy asked. "You can learn a lot from them. Given Andy's circumference, I'm sure E. Honda can teach him his moves." |
| "Okay, let me get this straight," said Trent. "We have to save this world, or we might end up risking ours?" "Something like that," said Billy. |
| "In that case," Trent said. "You have no choice," Sammy said. "Besides, you'll need this." She handed him a Pokedex and glared at him. "This is a bad idea," he said. "If you want my help, then you're dreaming." Without warning, a Pokémon that looked like a caterpillar with a leaf for a hood swung down on a rope made of silk and kicked him in the face. Of course, Trent was afraid of bugs, so it was no doubt his first reaction was to jump in fear. "Now would be a good time to use that Pokedex," Sammy said. Reluctantly, Trent pulled out his Pokedex and scanned the Pokémon. "Sewaddle, the Sewing Pokémon and a Bug/Grass type," it said. "Sewaddle hides in its hood while it sleeps. Since it makes its clothes out of leaves, Sewaddle is a popular mascot for fashion designers." "I don't care what it's called," Trent said, putting away his Pokedex. "I just want it to leave me alone. " He tried throwing things at it, but that made it angrier. The last thing he threw at it was a Poke Ball. When it stopped shaking when Sewaddle was inside, it clicked shut. "Not bad for your first capture, eh, Trent?" Sammy said. "That was just a coincidence," Trent said. "I wonder why the tournament was postponed the first time," Andy said. "I believe this was the work of a glitch called the Black Rose," Sammy said. "Never identified, never caught, and never misses." "I hope he doesn't do it again," Billy said. "We've got work to do." "Wait!" Sammy called. "This time, Wolfclops and I will be accompanying you guys and Silver and Daisy. The Elite 8 is here to help you as well. The more moves you master, the more Street Fighter characters you will be taught by. Even those who haven't been introduced in your world's games yet." |
| "One more thing..." Said Sammy "Remember you still have a limited amount of lives, so if you lose a round during the tournament, there's a possibility your opponent may finish you and you lose a life. You know what happens if you lose all of them." "WHAT!?" Trent shouted "You mean we can actually die permanently in this crazy place?!" Ignoring his outburst, Sammy continued "But given your skills at games, and your recent training, I'm sure it shouldn't be too much of a concern. I have every confidence you'll win the tournament anyway." "What happens if we lose?" Andy asked "Then Shao Kahn has the right to absorb Arcadia into his own realm. But like I said, don't worry about it too much. You'll do fine, I know it. Alright now, let's get going. We have a tournament to win!" |
| "Oh, and you'll need to leave your Pokémon with us when you're fighting in the tournament," Sammy added. "Bringing a Pokémon into the ring during the tournament will result in disqualification." "Do you suppose we'll be sabotaged by this Black Rose?" Trent said sarcastically. Sammy flew up to him and covered his mouth with one of her talons. "Ssshhh," she said. "Saying the Black Rose's name is forbidden in these parts." As soon as they got to the tournament, they were escorted to a hotel room by a butler named Mr. Benson. "I thought we were going to be staying in a locker room," Andy said. "The locker rooms are all full," Mr. Benson implied. "If you need anything, I left a code in the dresser drawer. Just punch it in to that monitor on the wall next to the door. By the way, some fighters have been disappearing for some apparent reason." "You mean some I've created?" Sammy asked. "I'm afraid so," said Mr. Benson. With that, he left the room, and the gang was getting settled in. "I don't understand," Sammy said. "I've created characters for fighting games for years, and now they're disappearing." "How do you do that?" Billy asked. "I've created a machine that creates characters," Sammy said. "It uses mannequins and computers to give the fighter a fighting style." "My instincts tell me that Mr. Benson could be behind the disappearances," Trent said. "In every mystery novel I've read, the butler always commits the crime. He's got to be you-know-who." Wolfclops chuckled while clutching his belly. "Nonsense," he said. "He seems too polite." "Don't get too distracted," Sammy said. "We can't be late for the opening ceremony." Silver and Daisy were handed the boys' Pokémon as the rest of the group rushed off to the opening ceremony in the hotel lobby. |
| At the opening ceremony, dozens of various characters were gathered as the tournament officially commenced. Peldra and Shao Khan faced each other and reluctantly shook hands, symbolizing their acceptance of each other's terms. But everyone could tell by the look on their faces that neither of them trusted the other. Afterwards, the tournament began in earnest in a huge arena like in Rome on Earth. The stands were filled to the brim with spectators, while representatives from both sides had their own private boxes. First up was Andy against Scorpion. Shouldn't be too hard, Andy thought. He would usually play as Scorpion whenever he played the arcade game, ergo, he knew all his moves. All around the arena were various death traps like spike pits, acid pools, etc."Be careful out, Andy." Sammy said as he stepped into the Arena. "Don't worry, guys." Andy said confidently "I can handle this." Little did he realize it was going to be a much more difficult fight than he thought. |
| Trent was looking around. The fight wasn't important - it was dealing with whomever was behind this mess. |
| Trent got up to leave. Why am I even here? He thought. He went to a busy street where cars were passing by. He had to pull off some of the moves he learned from his training. At least, he thought he knew those moves. One attempt at a yoga fire didn't work, and trying to execute a successful Hadoken didn't work as planned. "Only one shot to pull off a Sumo Headbutt," Trent told himself. He turned to face an oncoming vehicle. As he prepared to attack it, a corsac fox dressed in black robes kicked him out of the way. It had earrings adorning its right ear, and its left eyebrow had a lone piercing. "Hold it!" It said in a female voice. "Are you in a hurry for your game over?" "No," Trent said. "I'm supposed to be at my training." "No need to worry," the fox said. "The name's Penny. I'm here to save you." Trent turned to face her, and a practice match was about to start. Meanwhile, in the arena, Andy was close to being defeated in the ring. "This isn't to end well for him," Sammy said, her face in her palm. Andy faced Scorpion who was about to finish him off. As his opponent got close enough to him, Andy flipped him upside-down and leaped into the air while spinning. Then he slammed Scorpion into the ground. He had pulled off a Screw Piledriver! "I guess the training didn't fall on deaf ears," Sammy told herself. Andy got to his feet. He was to finish Scorpion to win the match. Despite his size, he jumped into the air while shouting, "Shoryuken!" As the dust cleared, Scorpion was an inch near the acid pit, and Andy was still standing. "Andy is the winner!" Peldra announced. The audience cheered. Andy had overcame all odds in a real Mortal Kombat match! He is heart began pounding with excitement. Meanwhile, Trent and Penny had been continuing their private match when Trent knocked his out with Electric Thunder. "Now to take her out," he told himself, cracking his knuckles. As he drew nearer to her, she opened her eyes and delivered a swift kick to his face. "No fair!" Trent cried. "You cheated!" "It's not cheating," Penny said. "It's called method." |
| "Just who are you, anyway?" Trent asked, rubbing the spot where she'd kicked him. "I mean, Where did you come from? Why are we fighting here in the streets?" |
| "There's always a game that gets no recognition - seen as a clone, a knockoff, or maybe they were the real deal, but some big company made their version, and became famous instead," the vixen said. |
| "Freeze!" A male voice called behind them. Two rabbit police officers came up to the pair. A chubby one grabbed Penny's right arm, and a skinny one grabbed her left. Trent watched as they were getting ready to cuff her when he heard a voice in his head saying, "You need to confess to the police you were the one who started the fight, not her." A penguin appeared on his shoulder dressed in an angelic robe and carrying a harp. Floating over his head was a halo. It didn't take long for Trent to realize it was a shoulder angel. "Don't listen to that guy," he heard another voice say. A weasel with an eyepatch dressed as a devil and carrying a devil's trident appeared on his other shoulder. It was definitely a shoulder devil. "He's trying to lead you down the path of righteousness," the devil continued. "I'm going to lead you down the path that rocks!" "Oh, come off it!" "You come off it!" "You!" "You!" "You!" "You infinity!" The angel was irritated. "Okay, here's the deal," the devil told Trent. "I've got three good reasons why she deserves to go to jail for what you did. Number one: You see that guy over there? He's got that sissy, stringy music thing." "I told you before," the angel said. "This is called a harp, remember?" "Don't worry, I remember," the devil said. "That's called a harp, and that's called a dress." "Robe!" "Reason number two: you want to see something stupid?" The devil began to pucker his cheeks and make a sound with his mouth. "What does that have to do with anything?" Trent asked. "No, no," the angel said. "He's got a point." "And this is the most important reason of all," the devil said before taking a long pause. He was about to say the third reason when he heard a ring coming out of nowhere. He pulled out a cellphone that looked like a Game Boy Advance SP and answered it. He started talking into it like a real phone. "Not to be rude," Trent said. "But you're sort of confusing me. So, begone or however I will get rid of you guys." The angel disappeared, leaving only the devil who was putting his hand over the speaker so the called wouldn't hear him. "That'll work," he said before disappearing. |
| "Wait! Trent called out "She didn't start the fight. It was me. We were just sparing, that's all." |
| With Trent locked up in the wagon, the two bunny cops drove off to the police station. On the way, the chubby bunny cop who was driving pulled over to a donut shop for donuts. "That's the seventh time we've stopped here today for donuts, Bernie," the skinny bunny cop said upon entering. Bernie walked up to the counter and told him, "The prisoner's not going anywhere, Ert, as long as we have the keys." As they turned to the cashier, Penny burst into the shop with Trent. "Oh, no!" She said. "Looks like he's escaped!" Ert and Bernie grabbed Trent and rushed him back to the wagon. Upon entering it, they saw |
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