New Game Plus

by shabambo

Summary:

After the battle with Master Mind, a group of heroes new and old must band together to defeat him. Will they save the world, or is it game over? Updated every Tuesday

Chapter 1: Prologue

(The story begins inside of a busy coffee shop. Patrons are sat around at tables around the place as we see two figures come through the entrance. The first figure is a slender man with messy black hair and glasses. His clothes are a bit untidy, but professional. The other figure is shorter and a bit heavier. He has a thick beard and is dressed in more casual clothing. They sit down together at a table. The dark-haired man starts speaking.)

Dark-haired Man: I’m tellin’ ya, Bill, this is gonna be the move that makes my entire career.

Bill: Yeah, listen, Zeke, about this experiment of yours…

Zeke: You don’t believe in me, do you.

Bill: No, of course I believe in you. Zeke, you’re brilliant. I’ve known that since grade school. It’s just… I mean… you tell someone you’ve unlocked the multiverse, what response do you expect?

Zeke: I know, it’s crazy.

Bill: So crazy you can’t tell anyone. Not even Charlotte.

Zeke: I’ll tell her eventually. I love her so much, I haven't felt this way about someone in years. I don’t wanna ruin it.

Bill: Right, right. So what exactly do we do when we open this multiverse?

Zeke: I’m not really sure. Trade resources maybe? Whatever those bigwigs at the capitol think is right. I just wanna be the first to go there.

Bill: You could be our ambassador or something. (He laughs.)

Zeke: Yeah, just gotta work out a few kinks in the system. (There’s a pause.) I think I’m going tonight.

Bill: (In shock.) Tonight? Really?

Zeke: I did the calculations. I’ll just make a few tweaks and then go on a test run. It’ll be easy.

Bill: You don’t think you should wait a little? This is a big deal. What if you can’t come back?

Zeke: I promise I’ll come back. You don’t have to worry about me. (Bill is silent.) Hey, who got us through chemistry in high school?

Bill: (Sighs.) You did.

Zeke: And which of us will soon be a part of a very prestigious scientific research team?

Bill: Not my fault I wanted to do something interesting in my life.

Zeke: Got me there. Let’s get some coffee. (They get up, but Bill stops Zeke.)

Bill: Hey, Ezekiel. I’m visiting you in your creepy lab tonight to make sure you’re still there.

Zeke: I’ll be there waiting for you. (The two go up to the counter.)

(We cut to the inside of an underground laboratory while Zeke, now in a labcoat, fiddles with a large capsule. He closes a panel on the capsule and goes to a table full of notes and blueprints.)

Zeke: Alright, if all this is correct, this should work. (He pauses.) I’m about to see another universe. (Zeke excitedly rushes into the capsule. He starts typing on the control console inside.) Search for a safe place to cross into… this one should do. (He types more.) Okay… (He pauses before taking a picture out of his pocket. It shows him, Bill, and a woman with short brown hair and glasses, presumably Charlotte.) I'll be back soon, you two. (He presses a large green button on the console. We cut to the outside of the capsule to see bright lights coming from it. Lots of whirring sounds are heard. Purple and black light then start to shine out of it as the capsule slowly disappears.)

(We cut to a realm between universes. The capsule is slowly sailing through. We cut inside to see Zeke celebrating.)

Zeke: It worked! My machine worked! This is ground-breaking! No, earth-shattering! (He laughs to himself.) Our world won’t be the same after this! This is- (He is cut off as a rattling sound is heard.) Huh? What’s that? (Zeke types on the console to figure out what’s wrong. We cut to the outside of the capsule to see the panel that was open before now opening again.) Something’s loose. What’s loose? What’s breaking?! (We see the panel fly off as the black and purple light starts flowing out. Volts of electricity start forming around the capsule.) I did everything right! It's not fair! It’s not… auggghh! (The screen goes white.)

(We cut to the fields of the Mushroom Kingdom, 35 years before the events of New Game. A group of three Toads is patrolling the area while holding spears.)

Toad #1: Nothing to report yet.

Toad #2: Bit boring today, but I guess that’s good.

Toad #3: (Pauses.) Does anyone else smell smoke? (The Toads look around before seeing billowing purple smoke appear over a hill.)

Toad #1: Looks like we’ve got something!

Toad #2: Let’s go see what it is! (The Toads bound over the hill. We cut to them at the top as they look down to see the capsule, now destroyed. We hear groans coming from inside.)

Toad #3: Someone’s inside.

Toad #2: We gotta help them. (The other Toads nod. They continue to slowly approach as we see the hand of a figure reach out of the capsule.)

Toad #1: Wah! (The Toads look on in confusion as Master Mind exits the capsule. He groggily looks around at the Toads.)

Master Mind: I… I made it. I did it! I’m in another universe! (He sees the scared Toads.)

Toad #1: Who… Who are you?

Master Mind: I am the mastermind behind this creation! (He gestures back before noticing his arm, now made out of the dark energy that we saw in New Game.) My… my arm! What happened to my arm?!

Toad #3: Calm down. What is this?

Master Mind: What am I?! It turned me into a monster! (Electricity surrounds Master Mind’s hands as he accidentally shoots a volt of electricity out of his hand into Toad #3, knocking him out.)

Toad #2: No!

Toad #1: What did you do?!

Master Mind: I’m… I’m sorry. I don’t-

Toad #1: We need to alert Toadsworth about the Master Mind!

Master Mind: Master Mind?

Toad #2: Come on! We need to go!

Master Mind: No! Wait! Please! (He reaches out as the screen goes black again. We see the words “35 Years Later '' appear on screen.)

(We’re now in the present day. We see Master Mind, in his human form, standing in the Helghan ship, just an hour after his battle against the heroes. His eyes shine purple. Radec and Cortex enter the room through a door behind Master Mind.)

Radec: They are ready for deployment, Master Mind.

Cortex: If I knew it was this easy to brainwash that meddling mammal, I would’ve done this years ago.

Master Mind: Good. Deploy them immediately.

Cortex: To where exactly?

Master Mind: I have informed Specter on where they should be deployed. Talk to him.

Radec: Yes, Master Mind. (Radec leaves but Cortex stays.)

Master Mind: Yes, doctor?

Cortex: Yes, well, I’m just not used to this new form.

Master Mind: I’ll be back to my usual form shortly. Being back in this world, it’s sapped away a bit of my power. It’s caused me to revert back.

Cortex: Yes, yes. Well, how does it feel to soon be the ruler of this world?

Master Mind: (Smiles.) I’ve been waiting for this for a long time. (The camera zooms out from the Helghan Cruiser.)

End of Prologue

Chapter 2: Continue?

(The episode begins as we look down on Mario, unconscious in a wooded area. The camera zooms in on him as we hear the voices of different characters in his head.)

Peach:  Long ago our world was attacked by a strange man who called himself Master Mind.

Bowser: Time for your game to end!

Master Mind: A man with nothing but a hammer!

Aiden: I don't think we can beat that thing.

Toro: I need to save my friend.

Master Mind: So long, Mario. (The voices stop and the screen goes dark. We then cut to Mario lying unconscious on a bed. His eyes flutter open as he slowly gets up.)

Mario: Where am I?

???: Careful. You were pretty hurt when I found you. (Mario looks over to the source of the voice. We see that he’s in some sort of inn room. At the table nearby, we see Lloyd Irving sitting in a chair and watching Mario.)

Mario: Who are-a you?

Lloyd: Give me your name, and I’ll give you mine.

Mario: I’m-a Mario. I was fighting Master Mind but then… my friends. (He looks off.)

Lloyd: Hey, you’re still pretty hurt. How about you catch me up in the morning?

Mario: (Nods.) Yeah. Thank you.

Lloyd: I’m Lloyd, by the way. Lloyd Irving.

Mario: Thank-a you, Lloyd. (Mario lays back down.)

(We cut to an underground laboratory, the same one Samus and Mega Man broke into in New Game. We hear commotion above as well as the squeals of the Pigmasks. The camera pans to a large broken glass tube as a pair of purple eyes lights up. We see Mewtwo walk out of it. A Pigmask Colonel (EarthBound) walks downstairs with a group of four other Pigmasks. We see corpses strewn about the area.)

Pigmask Colonel: The specimen has breached containment! Fire! (The Pigmasks all start shooting at Mewtwo. Mewtwo uses Reflect and all the shots bounce back and hit the Pigmasks, leaving them injured on the floor. The Pigmask Colonel looks around worried. Mewtwo then picks up a table with his telekinesis and throws it at the group of Pigmasks. The table flies at the camera and we cut away.)

(We cut to the forest outside of the laboratory, now dawn. We see Erdrick walking through with his sword and shield equipped.)

Erdrick: Let’s hope we find a town soon. (Behind Erdrick, we see Hector (Fire Emblem), Tira (SoulCalibur), and the Master (ActRaiser).)

Hector: With the dawn of a new day, we shall surely find one.

Tira: I sure hope so. (They suddenly hear the squeals of the Pigmasks.)

The Master: What is that?

Erdrick: I’ll check it out. (We see Erdrick go ahead of the group to see what’s going on.) I don’t see anything yet- (Suddenly, a truck barrels through the trees and lands on Hector, Tira, and the Master. Most of the truck is on fire.) No! No! (Erdrick runs to the truck. He tries to lift it off, but he can’t.) No! How!? (Erdrick turns and sees Mewtwo floating in the air behind him. He raises his sword and shield.) You! I’ll kill you! (Mewtwo looks at him before teleporting away.) Come back! You did this! You did this!

(We cut to Erdrick waking up in a dark forest. He’s panting hard and we see a campfire in front of him. The camera cuts to the trees above as we see a Hoothoot (Pokemon).)

Hoothoot: Hoot! Hoothoot! (We cut back to Erdrick.)

Erdrick: Just a dream… (Erdrick lays back down and dozes off.)

(We cut to the morning in a small town with stone buildings. People are going about their days between buildings. We see Brian (Quest) walking around with his staff. We then see a stand run by two Villagers (Minecraft). They’re selling fruits. An Aipom (Pokemon) swings down and grabs a fruit with its tail before scampering away. We cut to Mario and Lloyd walking through town.)

Lloyd: So there’s this guy trying to destroy the world who brainwashed all your friends.

Mario: Yeah, and if we don’t-a act fast, we’re-a gonna be in trouble.

Lloyd: How about we talk to the mayor around here. Surely he’d be able to do something to help us.

Mario: Can you lead-a the way?

Lloyd: Sure thing! I’ll get you one step closer to saving the world. (Lloyd runs off and Mario follows.)

(We cut to Mario and Lloyd entering a fancy-looking building.)

Lloyd: This must be the place. (They go up to the front desk.) Is this the office of the mayor here? (The receptionist, a lady with small glasses and a red suit, answers them.)

Receptionist: Yes it is, but you’ll have to make an appointment if you’d like to meet with them.

Mario: When are we-a able to see him?

Receptionist: Let me check real quick. (The receptionist types on her computer, but as she does, the mayor exits from the room behind her.)

Mayor: I’m off to a meeting, Ms. Jennings.

Receptionist: Okay, Mr. Mayor. (This gets Mario and Lloyd’s attention. They run up to the mayor.)

Mario: Excuse-a me, Mr. Mayor. (The mayor turns to see Mario and Lloyd. He immediately gets a nervous look on his face.) I’m-a here to warn you about Master Mind.

Lloyd: The world is at stake.

Mayor: I’m sorry, but I don’t have time to talk to people like you. (He begins to leave, but Lloyd speaks up.)

Lloyd: People like us?

Mayor: As soon as people like you started springing up around the globe, there has been nothing but disaster. Giant lizards and robots, prison escapes, and the invasion of ships have all happened in New York alone. Frankly, I do not care for you.

Mario: But we’re-a trying to help.

Mayor: You can help by staying away from my town. (The mayor leaves. Lloyd looks down, but Mario puts a hand on his arm.)

Mario: Don’t-a worry. We’ll-a figure something out. (We cut to the entrance to the town. Erdrick walks through the entrance and stops someone walking by.)

Erdrick: Have you seen a flying, humanoid monster around here? (The person shakes their head.) Oh, well thanks anyway. (He walks up to another person as the camera pans up to the sky. We see Mewtwo looking down at the village from far above. He centers his gaze on Erdrick. We then see Mewtwo teleport away.)

(We cut back to Erdrick walking around when we suddenly hear shouts coming from behind him.)

Erdrick: Huh? (He turns around to see Mewtwo surrounded by onlookers. He lifts up two crates with his telekinesis and throws them at Erdrick. Erdrick rolls underneath them and runs up to Mewtwo. He slashes twice but misses as Mewtwo floats back. The third strike hits Mewtwo in the torso as he flies back onto the ground. We cut back to Mario and Lloyd walking through town.)

Lloyd: So where do we go from here? (They suddenly hear the ruckus. They look over to their left to see Erdrick being held by Mewtwo’s telekinesis. He is then thrown into a wall. The onlookers gasp.)

Mario: We’ve-a got trouble.

Lloyd: (Unsheathing both swords.) Let’s deal with this first. (They run towards Mewtwo. Lloyd thrusts his sword at Mewtwo and sends him back. Mario then jumps on Mewtwo’s head and lands behind him. Mewtwo looks at the two of them. Mario jumps at Mewtwo again.)

Mario: Yahoo! (Mario is then held by Mewtwo’s telekinesis again. Lloyd runs up and spins around with his swords, cutting Mewtwo. Mewtwo then uses Shadow Ball and throws it at Lloyd, knocking him down.)

Lloyd: Urgh! (Mewtwo throws Mario far from him but he lands on his feet and starts running back towards Mewtwo. Mewtwo picks up four barrels with his telepathy and throws them at Mario. We see them start rolling towards him. Mario jumps over the first two and smashes the third one with his hammer.)

Mario: Yaha! (The fourth barrel knocks Mario over. Mario starts getting up, but Mewtwo uses Confusion on him. Stars fly around Mario’s head as he wanes back and forth woozily.)

Mario: I’m-a tired… (Mewtwo looks around for more challengers only to see Lloyd still on the ground, clutching his chest. Erdrick is nowhere in sight. Erdrick then lands next to Mewtwo after using the Zoom spell and slashes Mewtwo away with his sword.)

Erdrick: I’ve got you now, monster! (Mewtwo throws another shadow ball, but Erdrick guards it with his shield. Erdrick then uses Zap as a bolt of lightning strikes Mewtwo from above. He screams out in pain. We cut back to Erdrick as he uses Heal on Mario.)

Mario: Thank you so much!

Erdick: (Nods.) You’re welcome. (We cut back to Mewtwo as he floats higher. His eyes go white as shadows form from his hands. Mario and Erdrick look on in terror and determination. We hear the sound of steel on flesh as Mewtwo’s eyes go normal again, now wide-eyed. He looks down to see Lloyd’s fire sword through his stomach, thrown through it. Mewtwo goes back to the ground as we see Lloyd walk up to Mewtwo.)

Lloyd: That’ll end it. (The heroes surround Mewtwo as he clutches his stomach. Lloyd takes his sword out and Mewtwo slumps over.)

Mario: What-a is this thing?

Erdrick: It killed my friends. (Mewtwo looks up at our heroes with pleading eyes. (Blood keeps spilling.)

Lloyd: Why did it attack the town? (Erdrick looks down at Mewtwo and sighs. He closes his eyes, holds out his hand, and casts Omniheal. Mewtwo is healed and slowly gets up. Lloyd looks over at Erdrick.) Why’d you do that?

Erdrick: It’s just a wild animal. It’s scared. (Mewtwo looks upon our heroes.)

Mario: Do you think he can be good?

Erdrick: Everyone can. (Mewtwo nods and closes his eyes. He holds out his hand to our heroes and we hear his voice.)

Mewtwo: Thank you… (Mewtwo teleports away. The citizens walk up to our heroes and the mayor charges to the front.)

Mayor: Excuse me! You’re just gonna let that monster go?! I knew I was right about you!

Mario: He’s just a scared animal.

Erdrick: Don’t you think he deserves a second chance?

Mayor: I want you three out of my town!

Lloyd: We just saved your town! (Lloyd starts towards the mayor, but Mario holds him back.)

Mayor: People like you and your friends are destroying this place! There’s a new incident every day! Get out! (Our heroes reluctantly exit the town. We see them walking through the forest.)

Erdrick: So what now?

Mario: Master Mind is still out there. We have to stop him.

Lloyd: The people of this world don’t want us. Why don’t they just fight this battle?

Mario: I’m not sure if they know how, but we do. (They stop.)

Erdrick: We do?

Lloyd: (To Mario.) From what you told me, we can’t stop this fiend.

Mario: He was able to be stopped once before.

Erdrick: So what do we have to do?

Mario: We have to find the Shadow Crystal.

End of Episode

Chapter 3: Up Your Arsenal

(The episode begins in space. A UFO (Kirby) flies past. We then see a small Covenant ship fly by. The camera cuts inside to see the Arbiter at the controls. He is fiddling with the control panel.)

Arbiter: Still no sign of the UNSC. I must find a place to land soon or I fear I may die alone out here. (He messes with the control panel a bit more before a look of relief crosses his face.) Finally, a sustainable planet is nearby! If I can land there and find a way to contact the UNSC, then maybe they can explain what's happening. (We cut back outside to space. The camera zooms out until we see Ratchet and Clank floating in space. A dark aura surrounds both of their bodies. The camera turns to see the face of Ratchet, his eyes now a bright yellow.)

Ratchet: Hey, Clank, it’s one of those ships that attacked us before. (Clank’s head turns to see the ship, his eyes also yellow.)

Clank: Are you thinking what I am thinking, Ratchet?

Ratchet: It’s time for some payback. (Clank transforms into his jetpack form as they fly towards the ship. We cut back to the Arbiter as a thud is suddenly heard above him.)

Arbiter: What? (He looks above him through the glass casing to see Ratchet and Clank on top of his ship. Ratchet has his OmniWrench in his hands as he brings it down hard on the ship’s glass casing. Loud banging continues as we see the Arbiter fly his ship wildly to get Ratchet and Clank off.) Off of my ship!

Ratchet: It’s gonna take a lot more than that to get us off. (Ratchet grins as he takes out his Buzz Blades. He shoots two buzzsaws at the ship’s wings as smoke begins to pour out of it.)

Arbiter: You fool! You will kill us both! (The ship continues to spin as Ratchet hits the ship’s glass with his OmniWrench once more and destroys it. The Arbiter quickly puts on a respirator before he flies out and begins to float in space. Ratchet jetpacks up to him and hits him twice with his OmniWrench. The Arbiter counterattacks by uppercutting Ratchet upwards.) Wretched parasite!

Ratchet: How about something a little more dangerous? (Ratchet takes out his Combuster and begins shooting plasma at the Arbiter. He dodges but also ends up spinning wildly in the process. The Arbiter takes out an Energy Rifle and begins shooting at Ratchet. Many of the wild shots miss, but a couple burn the fur on Ratchet. Ratchet gets an angry look before putting on his Fusion Grenade Glove. We cut back to the Arbiter.)

Arbiter: Kill me or release me, but do not waste my time with talk! (Ratchet jetpacks over to the Arbiter and pulls out a Fusion Grenade. He grabs onto the back of the Arbiter.)

Ratchet: We’re both going down then! (The Arbiter shakes around violently to get Ratchet off, only succeeding in him letting go of the Fusion Grenade which floats beside them.) Clock’s ticking!

Arbiter: No! (An energy shield then forms around the Arbiter, Ratchet, and Clank. The grenade goes off as their bodies still go flying. They then slow down as the dark aura around Ratchet and Clank begins to flicker out.) This is it… (We go to the Arbiter’s POV as his eyes flicker open and shut. In between flickers, we see a white Luma (Super Mario) begin flying towards them.)

(We cut to a different view of space. We see a cluster of space rocks as the camera zooms out a bit to see a group of three Woolies (Bubsy) hopping on a larger space rock. They look at each other before the Wooly in the middle is suddenly shot and falls over.)

???: Worm power! (The camera pans to see Earthworm Jim with his blaster in hand. His other hand is on his hip. We cut back to the Woolies as they both spit projectiles at him.) Merciful mumbeans! (TIme slows down as Jim recreates the scene from The Matrix as he bends underneath the spit. He leans back up.) Eat dirt! (He shoots at both of the Woolies, taking them both out.) Groovy! (Jim takes out his Pocket Rocket and flies off of the space rock.) Yeehaw!

(We cut to Jim still flying through space as something suddenly grabs his attention.)

Jim: What’s this? (The camera pans to see the Death Egg still floating in space.) Hmmm, something tells me that that space station is not there for good reasons. Looks like it’s up to me to figure out the mystery behind it. (He flies towards the Death Egg.)

(We cut to Jim landing in the Death Egg hangar as he puts the Pocket Rocket back into his pocket. The hangar is dark and deserted with no sign of Eggman’s badniks.)

Jim: Hellooooo! Yodel-ay-hee-hoooooo! (Nothing answers.) Seems abandoned. (Jim walks off. We then see a POV of something watching Jim from the shadows. We cut to Jim walking through the halls of the Death Egg with his blaster. Distant electrical shock sounds are heard alongside Jim’s footsteps. Jim makes it to the doorway of the main control room where Eggman usually resided. He jumps through the doorway and points his blaster around quickly.) Still nothing. Must’ve scared whatever was here off. (Jim looks proud of himself as something suddenly drops behind him, blocking the doorway. Jim’s eyes go wide as he starts slowly looking behind him.) Hamina hamina hamina…

(The camera cuts directly to look at whatever is blocking the doorway as it reaches out and slashes at Jim, who jumps back. We see the creature is Ridley who roars at Jim.)

Jim: Aaaaaah! (Ridley lunges at Jim who dives underneath and starts running. Ridley overturns a control panel and jumps over to the doorway. He looks through and roars. We cut to Jim running as Space Pirates (Metroid) start emerging from other doorways.) Great googly moogly! (Jim takes out the Pocket Rocket and starts flying through the hallway. He hits a few Space Pirates as he flies through and the Space Pirates watch him go. We see him flying through the hangar as the Space Pirates fly off the Pocket Rocket.) Sorry, never got my license. (We watch him fly away from the Death Egg as the camera pans to see Ridley using his wings to hover outside the Death Egg, a gang of Space Pirates still in the hangar. We cut back to the Pocket Rocket to see a tracker planted on the side of it.)

(We cut back to Ratchet, now completely normal, laying down with his eyes closed. His eyes slowly flutter open. We zoom out a bit to see Ratchet in a room that looks similar to an observatory. He looks over to see Clank, who is also normal, upright and awake.)

Ratchet: Clank?

Clank: (Going over to Ratchet.) Ratchet. You are awake.

Ratchet: Where are we? Where’s Master Mi-? (They hear stirring as they look over to see the Arbiter on the ground, waking up.)

Arbiter: My head… (He gets up with a hand on his head before looking over at Ratchet. He suddenly looks angry.) You! You destroyed my ship and set me off course!

Ratchet: I… I did?! (The Arbiter stomps over and grabs Ratchet by his collar.)

Arbiter: Give me one good reason why I should let you live. (They suddenly hear a voice.)

???: Now now, there is no need for that. (The Arbiter looks over to see Rosalina (Super Mario) by the doorway of the room they’re in. She is holding a Luma.) Goodness, you’re all so violent these days. (The Arbiter puts Ratchet down.)

Ratchet: I’m sorry. I really have no idea who you are. (Clank walks up.)

Clank: Would you happen to be a member of the Covenant? (The Arbiter is shocked for a moment before leaning down towards Clank.)

Arbiter: How do you know of the Covenant?

Clank: We were told of them by Spartan John-117, or Master Chief as he is called.

Arbiter: You know John-117?

Ratchet: (Getting up.) Yeah, we fought alongside him. Against people like you.

Arbiter: Watch your tongue! I am no longer associated with the Covenant. (Calm again.) You must lead me to John-117. I too have fought alongside him.

Ratchet: I’d lead you to him, but we got separated. Lost a battle to Master Mind and suddenly I’m here. (Rosalina perks up when she hears Master Mind’s name.)

Rosalina: So he really has returned.

Ratchet: You know about him?

Rosalina: Yes, I know of his terrible deeds. (She takes out the piece of the Shadow Crystal that was in Ratchet’s possession.) I was hoping this was not a part of the Shadow Crystal like I had thought.

Ratchet: That’s ours. A teammate gave it to us.

Rosalina: It is part of the same crystal that had trapped Master Mind. A gift from the stars. I cannot believe that it broke. (The Arbiter turns to Ratchet and Clank.)

Arbiter: You really do not remember attacking me?

Ratchet: No, the last thing I remember is watching Master Mind, or his new form anyway.

Clank: I believe our unique abilities were taken advantage of.

Ratchet: Whaddya mean by that, buddy?

Clank: Master Mind has taken control of us like puppets. My data banks show that I was not in control of myself.

Arbiter: That dark aura around you has gone. I believe you are free from this Master Mind’s control.

Clank: Interesting.

Arbiter: My name is Thel ‘Vadam, but others call me the Arbiter. I am a companion of Master Chief. If you help me find him, I am positive we can make it back to our worlds.

Ratchet: Where exactly are we anyways?

Rosalina: (Smiles.) Allow me to show you.

(We cut to a bird’s eye view of the Comet Observatory. We cut to a closer view as Rosalina leads Ratchet, Clank, and the Arbiter around. A group of three space bunnies (Super Mario) hop past.)

Rosalina: This is the Comet Observatory. Lately, my children have been finding travelers lost in space. We let them stay here as long as they’d like while they recover. (We cut to see Louie (Pikmin), Viridian (VVVVVV), and Robbit (Jumping Flash) sitting in the grass as Lumas float around them. Rosalina leads them to the main control part of the observatory where the Arbiter’s ship is. It is being worked on by Lubba (Super Mario) alongside other Lumas.) Hello, Lubba.

Lubba: (Looks up.) Hello, Miss Rosalina. We’ve been working on the ship here. Trying to put it into tip-top shape. (He smiles.)

Arbiter: That is my ship.

Lubba: Yeah, it was pretty beat up. Luckily, we know a thing or two about fixing ships. With all of us working it, it’ll be ready before you know it.

Ratchet: (Taking out his OmniWrench.) Mind if we help? (Ratchet and Clank go over to help.)

Arbiter: Thank you. (Faint screaming is suddenly heard.) What’s that noise? (The camera pans up to see Jim riding on his Pocket Rocket. He’s screaming and heading right towards the observatory. He crashes into it hard.)

Jim: Pain! (Jim flies off the Pocket Rocket and lands face first on the ground. Ratchet and Clank rush over to check on him while the Arbiter walks over to the Pocket Rocket.)

Ratchet: Are you alright? (He helps Jim up.)

Jim: (Making wild hand movements.) Space pirates! A giant pterodactyl! They have a giant space station and are out to control the galaxy!

Clank: Space pirates?

Jim: I went to get help, out-maneuvering them at every turn so they had no chance of getting me.

Arbiter: Think again. (Our heroes look over at him.)

Jim: Huh?

Arbiter: This rocket of yours has a tracker attached. You lead them right to us. (The Arbiter takes the tracker off and crushes it with his hand.)

Jim: I… well… um…

Rosalina: (Walks over.) What is going on? (A group of fireballs suddenly fire on the ship. Our heroes dive out of the way, but one fireball hits Rosalina and knocks her over. She hits her head and goes unconscious.)

Ratchet: Rosalina!

Jim: (Pointing.) It’s them! (The camera pans to see Ridley flying with a cluster of Space Pirate Gunships behind him. Ridley roars at them. The Arbiter pulls out the Prophets’ Bane and turns to Jim.)

Arbiter: You!

Jim: (Points to himself.) Me?

Arbiter: Yes, you. Take care of the air troops. I’ll take out whatever lands on the observatory.

Jim: (Salutes.) Aye aye! (Jim jumps onto his Pocket Rocket and blasts off.) Yippee ki-yay!

Ratchet: What about us? (Ridley lands on the Comet Observatory and roars.)

Arbiter: Take care of that one. (The Arbiter runs off.)

Ratchet: Okay… let’s try our best. (Ratchet pulls out his blaster and shoots continuous fire at Ridley. It doesn’t do much damage and makes Ridley angrier. Ridley swipes at Ratchet, with Clank now on Ratchet's back, and knocks them down.) Okay… what’s plan B? (We cut to Jim flying through space, shooting at multiple Space Pirate ships, causing them to burst into flames.)

Jim: Win win win! Me me me! (We then cut to two Space Pirate ships landing on the observatory. Two Space Pirates get out of each ship and begin firing energy beams out of their eyes at Lumas. A grenade suddenly lands between the ships. Two Space Pirates dive out of the way as the grenade explodes, destroying the ships.)

Arbiter: Steel yourself! (The Arbiter runs up with the Prophet’s Bane and slices one Space Pirate in half. The other Space Pirate swipes at the Arbiter and gets his arm. The Arbiter slashes the other Space Pirate in half vertically.) Victory is ours. (We cut to Ratchet firing rockets at Ridley using the Warmonger. This blows Ridley back as his claws dig into the observatory. Ridley fires fireballs out of his mouth. Ratchet ducks under one but is hit away by a different one. Ratchet struggles to get up as Clank gets off his back.)

Clank: Are you alright, Ratchet?

Ratchet: Yeah, buddy… just a… little bruised. Still beat up… from our last fight. (We cut back to Ridley as Jim flies above him and shoots.)

Jim: Take this! (Ridley roars and smacks Jim off of his Pocket Rocket. He lands hard on the ground.) Ouch! (We cut back to Ratchet and Clank.)

Clank: I’ll handle this, Ratchet. (We see a giant shadow begin to loom over Ratchet as Clank transforms into giant Clank. Clank then runs up to Ridley and grabs him by his snout. Clank then pulls Ridley over his head and slams him on the ground.)

(We cut to the Arbiter shooting his assault rifle at more Space Pirates as Jim runs in and begins firing also with his back against the Arbiter’s.)

Jim: The whole world against us. Will we survive?

Arbiter: You talk too much. (We cut again to Clank as he holds Ridley’s arms apart. Ridley uses his tail to stab into Clank’s stomach. Clank then headbutts Ridley away. Clank then fires rockets at Ridley and sends him above the observatory. We cut to the Arbiter and Jim.)

Arbiter: (To Jim.) Quickly, come here! (Jim runs over as the Prophet’s Bane is thrust into his hands.) I trust you know what to do.

Jim: Maybe. (The Arbiter grabs Jim and spins him around by the head. He lets go as Jim is flung towards Ridley.) Chew on this! (Jim thrusts the blade into Ridley’s chest as he screams out in pain. He then pulls it out and drops back to the observatory.) See ya! (Ridley drops down a bit using his wings as Clank runs up and provides a final blow to Ridley’s face with his fist. Ridley is flung far out into space as a shimmer is seen.)

(We cut to later on as we see our three heroes standing next to the Arbiter’s now repaired ship. Rosalina is there to see them off.)

Rosalina: I cannot thank you enough for what you have done. (She gives the Shadow Crystal shard to Ratchet.) Please, for me and my children, bring us home.

Ratchet: (Smiling.) I won’t let you down, ma’am.

Rosalina: Please, you can just call me Rosalina. The Lumas and I will be rooting for you all. (The Arbiter turns to Ratchet.)

Arbiter: Lead me to where this battle occurred. I assure you, John-117 will want to finish the fight, and he will.

Ratchet: You got it. But… (He turns to Jim.) Why is he coming?

Jim: When the world needs saving, Earthworm Jim will be there!

Ratchet: I guess we do need the help.

Arbiter: Then let us be on our way.

Jim: Groovy! (We see the Arbiter’s ship leaving the Comet Observatory.)

(We cut to the inside of the Death Egg. A group of Space Pirates is walking through the halls. They make it to the door of a large room. As it opens, we see it is dark. Slowly, the lights begin turning on. Eventually, in the middle of the room, we see the form of Mother Brain (Metroid) underneath the lights. Her one eye opens.)

End of Episode

Chapter 4: Goodbye, Galaxy

(The episode begins looking out upon the Nefarious space station in the middle of space. The camera zooms in to the brain of the space station as we see Dr. Nefarious inside toiling away at his console.)

Nefarious: I'm not sure what that miserable Lombax did, but we're out of range from every planet I've ever tried to conquer. How am I supposed to be a supervillain with distractions like these? (We see Lawrence (Ratchet & Clank) walk into the room behind Dr. Nefarious.)

Lawrence: I'm sure you'll make do, sir.

Nefarious: Wait a minute. I'm far away from every world I've tried to conquer.

Lawrence: You've mentioned, sir.

Nefarious: Which means I have entirely new planets that will soon know the great name of Dr. Nefarious! Mwahahahaha! (He begins typing away. An image of Earth pops up, with the population appearing underneath at ~7.9 billion.) Earth. Lawrence, what do you think? (Lawrence looks it over.)

Lawrence: Well sir, there are billions of people on Earth. Perhaps we should stick to something simpler. You do not have the best track record of conquered planets.

Nefarious: You're right. (He types again.) How about… (An image of Mars pops up with the population saying ~20.) Aha! Mars.

Lawrence: Wonderful, sir. Even someone as simple as you can handle a planet of this population.

Nefarious: Right you are, Lawrence. Time to make a quick visit to Mars. (Nefarious walks off as we cut to outside the space station. We then see a ship leave the space station through the bottom ring.)

(We cut to a different sector of space as the Normandy flies by. We cut inside to see Commander Shepard sitting down at a table.)

???: Been a tough week, huh Commander? (Shepard turns around to see Liara T'soni (Mass Effect) behind him.)

Shepard: That’s one way to put it. (He turns away from her.)

Liara: The crew has to be out there somewhere, and when we find them-

Shepard: (Turning back.) If we find them. We have no idea where we are.

Liara: At least we're not alone. Joker and Garrus are still with us.

Shepard: I am Commander of this ship, and I lost nearly my entire crew. (Shepard looks away again as footsteps are heard. We see Garrus Vakarian (Mass Effect) walk up to them.)

Garrus: We have visuals on a planet. (Shepard gets up.)

Shepard: Show me. (Shepard and Liara follow Garrus out. We cut to the cockpit as Jeff Moreau (Mass Effect) pilots it. Shepard, Liara, and Garrus all walk in.)

Jeff: Finally, you're all here. (No one says anything.) Happy to see you too, Commander.

Shepard: You've found a planet?

Jeff: Yep, that red beauty right down there. (We see Mars through the glass of the Normandy.)

Liara: Could anyone be down there?

Jeff: Well, it's practically uninhabitable from the looks of it, but yeah, maybe our crew is living it up down there. (Suddenly, a humanoid object moves past the Normandy, heading straight towards Mars. This catches everyone's attention.)

Garrus: What was that?

Liara: Looked like some sort of man.

Jeff: Doesn't look like he's having fun.

Shepard: Let’s dock on that planet and search. If anything, we know that there's someone down there who could need our help.

Jeff: Yes, Commander. (We cut to see the Normandy heading towards Mars.)

(We cut to the surface of Mars as we see a young boy working on a small rocket ship. He stands up from working on it to reveal that this character is Commander Keen.)

Keen: I'm never gonna fix this thing. Missing too many parts from the crash. (He sits down next to his ship.) Marooned in space again. Just my luck. (We cut to a view of Keen from far away as the camera pulls back to reveal a Starman (EarthBound). The camera turns around to reveal five of them.)

Starman 1: Another puny human.

Starman 2: Let's squash him. (The Starmen teleport away. We cut back to Keen as he looks up to see the Starmen surrounding him.)

Keen: Woah. Who are you guys?

Starman 1: You will get off of our planet now.

Keen: I'm trying, but my stupid ship won't work.

Starman 1: Very well, then prepare to be destroyed. (The Starmen begin firing PSI Fire at Keen.)

Keen: Woah! (Keen jumps behind the Beans-with-Bacon Megarocket for cover. Two of the Starmen suddenly teleport to behind the ship and startle Keen.)

Starman 3: You cannot hide. (Keen jumps into the cockpit of the ship and closes the hatch as the Starmen continue shooting at him.)

Keen: (Panicking.) This is just a bad dream. This is just a bad dream. This is just a bad dream. (Suddenly, the figure seen from the Normandy lands on the lead Starman, destroying it. The figure gets up and is revealed to be Master Chief, now with a dark aura around him. The Starmen study him.)

Starman 2: Yet another challenger to take on the Starmen? (Master Chief raises his assault rifle and begins firing at the Starmen. He shoots through two of them on one side of the Megarocket. The last two teleport onto either side of him. Master Chief tears through one with his Energy Sword horizontally before then plunging it into the head of the last Starman. Keen gets out of the Megarocket.)

Keen: Thanks, mister. I was in a real pickle right there. (Master Chief stares at him.) Yeah… uh… thanks. (Master Chief walks towards Keen with his Energy Sword.) You can put that away now. They're all gone.

Master Chief: Keep quiet. (Master Chief swings at Keen who jumps backwards, barely dodging.)

Keen: I'm j-just a kid.

Master Chief: All must be eliminated.

(We cut to a now landed Normandy as Shepard, Liara, and Garrus walk onto Mars, all wearing a form of helmet for breathing.)

Liara: He should be around here somewhere.

Garrus: Commander, look! (Garrus points away from the ship as the camera pans to see the fight between Master Chief and Keen.)

Shepard: Looks like that kid's in trouble. (He readies his assault rifle.) Let's give him some help.

(We cut back to Master Chief holding his Energy Sword above his head, ready to strike. As he swings, he suddenly floats up and becomes suspended in midair by a dark energy. The camera pans to see that this is because of Liara using her Singularity ability. Shepard and Garrus run past her, shooting at Master Chief with their assault rifles.)

Garrus: No mercy for those who attack children! (Master Chief takes multiple shots. He then takes out his assault rifle, shoots at Liara, and skins her arm.)

Liara: Gah! (Master Chief is dropped onto the ground. He runs up to Garrus and slams his shoulder into his chin, knocking him over. Master Chief then takes out his Energy Sword and swings it at Shepard, but he blocks it with his Omni-blade.)

Shepard: Back away from the kid. (Master Chief raises his Energy Sword again and brings it down towards Shepard. Shepard rolls out of the way and slices into Master Chief's arm with his Omni-blade. He then kicks Master Chief down as the dark aura around him flickers.) What the… (Master Chief turns around and begins shooting at Shepard. He is hit twice and falls backward. Master Chief begins to get up, but Keen jumps on his chest using a pogo stick and lands next to Shepard. He gives him his hand.) Get out of here, kid. It's dangerous.

Keen: No, I need to help. (Keen puts the pogo stick to the side and pulls out his blaster. Master Chief gets up and begins walking towards them while Keen continuously shoots at him, barely doing any damage. Keen and Shepard look at him in fear before he suddenly stops.) Huh?

Liara: Commander! (Liara and Garrus walk up to them, clutching their wounds.) I… put him in stasis.

Shepard: Good work.

Garrus: Now. (Garrus walks up to Master Chief and begins pounding down on his helmet. After four strong hits, the dark aura around Master Chief dissipates.)

Shepard: Garrus, stop it.

Garrus: Huh?

Shepard: The dark aura around him. It disappeared. (To Liara.) Take him out of stasis.

Liara: Yes, Commander. (Liara takes Master Chief out of stasis. Master Chief falls to his knees as Shepard walks up, assault rifle pointed at him.)

Shepard: Who the hell are you, and why the hell were you attacking this child.

Master Chief: Master Mind. He won.

Shepard: (Confused.) What? (Master Chief takes out his Holotank as Cortana appears in it.)

Cortana: Yes, Chief?

Master Chief: What happened? What's my location?

Cortana: Chief, I think you were brainwashed.

Keen: Brainwashed? Cool.

Cortana: Master Mind put you and everyone else under his control. He must have sent you into space to do his bidding.

Shepard: Wait one second. Who are you?

Cortana: Oh, sorry, I didn't notice you. This is John-117, otherwise known as Master Chief, a Spartan. We were defeated by Master Mind, a being who wants to take over this universe.

Keen: The whole universe?

Master Chief: I must return to Earth immediately. The lives of everyone here depend on it. (Our heroes look at each other in confusion.)

(We cut to Dr. Nefarious landing on Mars in his ship.)

Nefarious: So, this is Mars. (He looks around.) It’s so… red. (Smiling.) Perfect. (He walks over a hill to survey the land before he sees a Rifter Hawk in the distance.) Getting that machine will make this job too easy. (He laughs to himself. We cut to the Rifter Hawk to see the Outlaw (Starhawk) sitting next to it)

Outlaw: No rift energy all the way out here. (We see Nefarious stick his head out from behind the Hawk's leg and smiles evilly. He then creeps out from behind it with a large space rock above his head. He brings it down onto the Outlaw's head, knocking him unconscious.)

Nefarious: You squishies are all so weak. (He rubs his hands evilly and looks up at the Hawk.) Time to have some fun.

(We cut back to our heroes walking back towards the Normandy.)

Keen: (To Shepard.) Thanks for agreeing to take me with you, Commander.

Shepard: It’s not a problem, uh… Commander.

Liara: What are you the Commander of again?

Keen: The Beans-with-Bacon Megarocket. Built it myself.

Garrus: How old are you?

Keen: Eight, but I'll be nine soon. (A shadow flies above them as the Rifter Hawk goes into mech form and lands in front of them. The hatch opens and Dr. Nefarious pops out.)

Nefarious: Greetings, I am Dr. Nefarious, the new ruler of Mars! Mwahahaha!

Shepard: Ruler of Mars?

Keen: Hey, mister, we were just about to leave Mars.

Nefarious: I cannot let you do that. (The hatch closes again.) Prepare to be destroyed! (The Hawk begins shooting at our heroes as they dive to each side. Shepard, Liara, and Garrus dive to the right while Master Chief grabs Keen and dives to the left. Master Chief and Keen both begin shooting at the Hawk.) Stop that! (The Hawk jumps over to them and tries to land on them but our heroes jump out of the way. We cut to Shepard's team.)

Shepard: All eyes on the enemy! (Garrus pulls out a sniper rifle and begins firing. Shepard and Liara run towards the Hawk while Shepard fires his assault rifle. We cut to Master Chief cutting into the leg of the Hawk with his Energy Sword, exposing wires.)

Nefarious: So, the mech isn't working out. But what if I take to the skies? Mwahaha! (The Hawk takes on its jet form. Keen jumps onto it as it takes off.)

Keen: Aaaaaaaah! (The Hawk flies around and loops towards where our heroes are. It begins shooting rapidly. We see the shots tear through Garrus as the rest of our heroes duck out of the way.)

Shepard: Garrus!

Liara: No! (Garrus falls to the ground. We cut to Keen holding tightly onto the jet. He crawls to the right wing and pries open the metal coverings on it.)

Keen: Let’s do some science. (He reaches in and starts fiddling around. We see the Hawk begin to lose power in the right wing and start spinning in the air.)

Nefarious: Hey! Who's messing with my machine?! (Keen suddenly flies off of the Hawk.)

Keen: Heeeeeelp! (We see Master Chief run towards Keen as he jumps and catches him in midair.)

Master Chief: Gotcha.

Keen: Thanks, mister. (The Hawk crashes down, still in jet form. We cut to Nefarious pounding on the controls inside.)

Nefarious: Come on! Work, you! (We see Shepard run up and lob a grenade at the other wing.)

Shepard: Yah! (It lands on the wing.)

Nefarious: Oh no. (The grenade explodes and the Hawk does with it. We see Nefarious fly out of it into the air.) Lawreeeeeeeence! (He flies out of sight. Our heroes meet up back together next to the body of Garrus.)

Master Chief: I'm sorry about your friend.

Shepard: (Sighs.) It's hard enough fighting a war. But it's worse knowing no matter how hard you try, you can't save them all. (Master Chief nods and puts Garrus onto his shoulders.)

Master Chief: I'll carry him back. (Shepard nods. We see our heroes walk back towards the Normandy.)

(We cut inside the Normandy to see Jeff Moreau. Our heroes walk in behind him, now without Garrus. Shepard and Liara no longer have their helmets on.)

Jeff: So, we found the man-comet? (Shepard nods.) Where’s Garrus?

Shepard: He didn't make it.

Jeff: (Looks down.) D*mn.

Master Chief: We need you to get us to Earth. War has begun.

Jeff: Show me where, and I'll get us there smoothly. (We cut outside to see the Normandy take off. We then cut to a different angle farther away to see a woozy Dr. Nefarious watching it leave.)

Nefarious: Count your days, squishies. The day of Nefarious is near! (He begins a long evil laugh as the camera zooms out.)

End of Episode

Chapter 5: Bloody Tears

(The episode begins with a view above a police station. Multiple people are seen walking or talking outside. We see one figure walk inside. We cut inside to see Leon S. Kennedy talking to another police officer. Behind him is the front desk as the figure seen before, Claire Redfield (Resident Evil), walks up to the desk.)

Claire: Excuse me, I’m looking for an Officer Kennedy. Leon Kennedy. (Leon turns around.)

Leon: Claire?

Claire: Leon! (Claire runs up to Leon and hugs him.) Finally, a familiar face. I’ve been looking for you everywhere.

Leon: This world is in shambles. I’ve assumed you heard the news.

Claire: (Letting go of Leon.) I’ve heard about the airships and the robots. Sounds like something my brother would handle.

Leon: So Chris is missing?

Claire: (Looking down.) No sign of him at all. (We see the deputy from New Game enter the room.)

Deputy: Kennedy, we’ve got something for you.

Leon: What is it?

Deputy: We got a distress call. Someone claiming their from the BSAA. Whatever that is.

Claire: Chris! That’s the organization Chris is part of!

Deputy: And this is, Kennedy?

Leon: A friend. You were saying, sir?

Deputy: Yes, well, from what he was saying it seems like he and others have been taken hostage. We’re not sure who or what is keeping them there, but their location isn’t far from here. Our other officers are busy with the recent attack on the city, so I’m sending you in. Don’t let me down. (The Deputy leaves.)

Leon: Looks like I have a job to do.

Claire: (Putting a hand on Leon’s shoulder.) Not alone.

Leon: I figured. We’ll take one of the cruisers.

Claire: And we’ll find Chris. (We cut outside as we see a police cruiser drive out from the station.)

(We cut to a view above a desolate-looking small town at nighttime. We see a Murkrow (Pokemon) on top of a telephone wire.)

Murkrow: Krow! Krow! (It flies down above the streets as the camera focuses on a manhole cover. The scene fades into one underground in the sewers. The camera focuses on Simon Belmont, who’s chained upside down to a pipe on the ceiling. He’s bloodied and dazed. We hear footsteps approaching.)

Simon: Huh? (The camera pans around to see Pyramid Head. He’s carrying his Great Knife while dragging a moaning body behind him. Pyramid Head throws the body in front of him, revealing him to be Danny Lamb (Manhunt).)

Danny: Please… have mer- (He’s interrupted by Pyramid Head bringing the Great Knife down on Danny’s chest, killing him.)

Simon: (To Pyramid Head.) What business do you have with me, demon? (Pyramid Head stares at him.) Answer me. (Pyramid Head approaches him, wielding his Great Knife with both hands.) No answer, you coward? Fine. (Pyramid Head brings his Great Knife up when the sound of tires come from above. This gets Pyramid Head’s attention. He begins to leave.) The Belmont Clan will not end with me.

(We cut to the streets as the police cruiser stops at a small house. Leon and Claire get out.)

Leon: This is the place. This town looks deserted

Claire: Chris is in this building. He has to be.

Leon: (Readying handgun.) Just be careful. (He hands a second handgun to Claire.)

Claire: Right. (Leon leads them to the front door and kicks it down.)

Leon: Police! Hands up! (They look around to see the house abandoned. A male voice is heard from upstairs.)

???: Up here! (Leon looks up, confused. He leads Claire upstairs as they look around. They hear the voice from a nearby room.) Come in. Quickly. (They go into a mostly-empty room. Inside is Barry Burton (Resident Evil) and Alexandra Roivas.)

Alexandra: I was wondering when you’d show up.

Leon: I thought this was a hostage situation?

Barry: It is, just not in the way you think.

Alexandra: There’s monsters covering this place. We were lucky enough to have found this house.

Claire: What about the BSAA agent? Is he here?

Barry: That’d be me. Name’s Barry Burton.

Claire: Not Chris Redfield?

Barry: Chris Redfield? Haven’t seen Chris in a long while. (Claire looks downtrodden.)

Alexandra: (Grabbing shotgun.) Just get us out of here quick.

Barry: I’ll lead us out. (Barry gets to the doorway and turns around.) And, I’m sorry about Chris. I worked alongside him. I wish I knew where he was. (Barry suddenly gasps as the rest of our heroes scream. The camera pans out to see Pyramid Head with his Great Knife through Barry’s chest.) I… I… (Barry falls to the ground. Leon, Claire, and Alexandra all shoot at Pyramid Head, but the bullets don’t do anything.)

Claire: It’s not doing anything! (Pyramid Head walks closer.)

Alexandra: I’ll distract him! You all get out! (Alexandra runs towards him.)

Leon: Wait! (Alexandra runs up with her knife and starts slashing at Pyramid Head. Pyramid Head grabs her by the throat and throws her out of a window. We see her land on the ground below. Leon and Claire run past Pyramid Head to the doorway. Pyramid Head turns around and swings at them.)

Claire: Duck! (Leon and Claire duck as the Great Knife lodges itself into the wall.) Come on, Leon! (We see Leon and Claire exit the house.)

Leon: Let’s find that girl. (They run to the back of the house, but can’t find her.) Miss? (He pauses.) Miss!

Claire: Where’d she go? (A figure drops heavily behind them. They turn around to see that it’s a Licker (Resident Evil).)

Leon: (Whispering.) A Licker.

Claire: (Also whispering.) I thought I’d never have to see one of those again.

Leon: Stay quiet. We’ll sneak away. (Leon and Claire silently start walking backwards while the Licker turns its head from side to side. They get a few steps before the Murkrow from before lands behind them.)

Murkrow: Krow!

Leon: Sh*t! (The Licker roars and starts rampaging towards them. Leon and Claire start running away as it chases them.)

(We cut to Alexandra limping into the street, a bit far from the house she and Leon were in. She suddenly notices an open manhole cover.)

Alexandra: What the… (A voice is suddenly heard from deep within. We recognize it to be Simon’s.)

Simon: Come back, foul demon! I will end you!

Alexandra: Someone’s down there? (She looks around before jumping down. She is immediately greeted by multiple unrecognizable corpses strewn about.) I guess this is where everyone went. (She wades through the sewer water towards Simon’s voice. We see unknown figures watching Alexandra from the shadows.)

(We cut to Alexandra walking into the large room where Simon is being held. He looks shocked.)

Simon: Who goes there?

Alexandra: I’m Alex… and uh… who are you?

Simon: (Pauses a moment.) I am Simon Belmont. Please, you must release me so I can vanquish that demon. (Alexandra goes over to Simon and releases him from the ropes holding his legs to the pipe above with her knife. She lowers him down.) Thank you.

Alexandra: You’re bloodied.

Simon: That beast attacked me with his knife. (Alexandra holds out her hands and uses Recover on Simon. His wounds heal.) Thank you.

Alexandra: No problem. (A growl is suddenly heard. Our heroes look towards the entrance to the room and see a group of Gatherers (Amnesia). They begin stumbling towards our heroes.) What are those things?

Simon: (Readying his whip.) Monsters. (Simon runs up to the Gatherers and hits a group of three in the legs with his whip, knocking them over. One Gatherer shambles up to Alexandra. She turns to it and shoots it in the head with her shotgun.)

Alexandra: Stay back! (A second Gatherer comes up from behind and grabs Alexandra’s shoulders.) Get off! (She elbows it back. She looks upon the group of Gatherers and starts to hyperventilate. A giant Gatherer erupts from the water and reaches towards Alexandra. She falls backwards. We cut to Simon throwing an axe into the chest of a Gatherer before looking back towards Alexandra.)

Simon: Huh? (He sees Alexandra cowering with nothing reaching towards her.) Alex! Get up! (We see the giant Gatherer again as a white flash covers the screen. The giant Gatherer disappears. It was a hallucination. Simon runs up to Alexandra and helps her up.)

Alexandra: (Breathing heavily.) We need to get out of here. (Simon looks at the group of Gatherers at the exit.)

Simon: Stay close behind me. (Simon throws a boomerang at the Gatherers and knocks some over, creating a hole in the crowd. He and Alexandra run through. We see them run past the corpses as splashing sounds are heard behind them.)

Alexandra: They’re gaining on us! (They reach the manhole that Alexandra first came through.) Our way out is up there.

Simon: I’ll help you escape. (Simon leans down and lets Alexandra step on his hands to boost her up. She crawls to the surface.)

Alexandra: Alright. I’m up. (Simon’s whip then partially comes through the manhole.)

Simon: Grab on! (Alexandra nods and holds on. We cut back into the sewers to see the Gatherers running towards Simon as he crawls up his whip.) Die monsters! (Simon throws a fire bomb at the Gatherers and they burst into flames. They scream. Simon reaches the top and puts the manhole cover over the manhole.) That’s the last we’ll see of them.

Alexandra: Look! (Alexandra points at Leon and Claire across the street, the Licker chasing them. Leon and Claire begin climbing up the side of a house with a ladder on the side. The Licker follows them to the roof.) Come on, they need our help. (Alexandra and Simon run towards the battle.)

(We cut to the roof as the Licker corners Leon and Claire near the edge. The Licker’s tongue lolls out of its mouth.)

Claire: What do we do?

Leon: Shoot! (Leon and Claire begin emptying their guns onto the Licker. It lunges forward onto Claire and pins her down.)

Claire: Leon! Help! (Leon continues shooting at the Licker as Claire tries to push it away. Suddenly, Pyramid Head’s Great Knife erupts out of the roof straight through Claire and the Licker, killing them both.) Leon… (Claire and the Licker's body fall to the side of the roof as Pyramid Head crawls onto the roof through the new hole and corners Leon on the edge.)

Leon: What’re you gonna do? Just kill me? Go on then! Kill me! (Pyramid Head raises the Great Knife and starts to bring it down. Leon closes his eyes but nothing happens. He opens them to see Simon and Alexandra behind Pyramid Head. Simon’s whip is wrapped around Pyramid Head’s hands. He’s pulling back on the whip.)

Simon: You will not win this fight, demon. (Simon tugs back and Pyramid Head drops the Great Knife. Pyramid Head drops to the ground and lunges to get the Great Knife. Alexandra shoots Pyramid Head with her shotgun and sends him back a bit. Simon wields the Great Knife.) Now you shall know the fury of the Belmont Clan! (Pyramid Head stands back up as Simon plunges the Great Knife through his chest. Pyramid Head touches around his wound before dropping. It falls off of the roof onto a car in the driveway below. Pyramid Head’s lifeless body lies still. We cut to our heroes at the police cruiser.)

Leon: Thank you for saving me.

Alexandra: Ditto.

Simon: I am sorry we could not save your friend.

Leon: Yeah. (Looks downtrodden.) We almost made it.

Alexandra: I’m really sorry, uh, Leon, right?

Leon: Yeah. (He gets into the cruiser.) Get in. Let’s get out of here before more monsters show up. I still have somebody to find.

Simon: What is this device?

Alexandra: Just get in and buckle up, Belmont. (Simon nods. We see a bird’s-eye-view of the police cruiser driving out of town as the camera pans towards the sky.)

End of Episode

Chapter 6: Humming the Bassline

(The episode begins looking upon the corpse of Dr. Zomboss in a forested area. The camera pans around to see multiple zombies mourning his death. One blows his nose into a tissue. Another begins weeping into the shoulder of another zombie.)

Zombie: Braaaiiins! (We cut to a different part of the forest as a Jumpluff (Pokemon) walks through. Suddenly, a green arm erupts from the ground.

Jumpluff: Pluff! (The Jumpluff flies away. The figure fully comes out of the ground, revealing it to be Stubbs the zombie.)

Stubbs: Urgh… brains. (Stubbs sees the group of zombies surrounding Dr. Zomboss and shambles over to them. The zombies turn around and look at him, confused.) Uh… brains? (The zombies nod to each other in agreement.) Brains. (The zombies look more enthused.)

Zombie 1: Brains.

Zombie 2: Brains!

Stubbs: (Raising his fist into the air.) Brains! (The zombies begin clapping wildly and chanting brains. The camera zooms in on Stubbs’ face as a grin appears on it.)

(We cut to a city as cars drive along the streets. The camera zooms in on the streets as Chuck Greene walks by on the sidewalk. He walks by Franklin (Grand Theft Auto) sitting on a bench and Raul Passos (Max Payne). While walking by an alleyway, he hears some shuffling in the dumpster in it.)

Chuck: Huh? (He walks into the alleyway to investigate.) Someone in here? (He walks over to the dumpster. More shuffling is heard in the trash. Chuck grabs a plank of wood on the ground and prepares to attack. Suddenly, a Meowth (Pokemon) jumps out of the dumpster onto one of its closed lids.)

Meowth: Meowth meowth!

Chuck: (Relieved.) Just a… cat? (Chuck shrugs and drops the piece of wood. He exits the alleyway. As he does, we see a zombie emerge from the dumpster and turn towards the Meowth.)

Zombie: Brains?

Meowth: Meowth! (The zombie reaches for the Meowth but it jumps away. The zombie slams his fist on the dumpster lid.)

(We cut to a dingier part of town as we find another hero, Beat, spray painting a wall on the side of a building. The graffiti looks vaguely like Beat.)

Beat: This is GG's territory now. (Beat flips the spray paint can in his hand before putting it away. He skates off.)

(We cut again to a similar environment as we see Amy Rose walking through.)

Amy: Oh, Sonic… where could you be? (A Rattata (Pokemon) scampers past Amy and she shrieks and falls over.) Stupid rat! (A glint is seen behind Amy next to a couple of trash cans. Amy looks behind her and sees the glimmer.) Huh? (The camera angle changes to see a staircase behind Amy leading to the street. We see Kane (Grand Theft Auto) and Little Weasel (Grand Theft Auto) appear on the staircase as Amy gets up and goes to the trash cans. Kane turns to Little Weasel.)

Kane: Hey, check out that pink freak.

Little Weasel: What’s she got? (We cut back to Amy as she picks up a Shadow Crystal shard. She studies it.)

Amy: Doesn’t quite look like a Chaos Emerald. (She smiles.) I’ll keep it on me, just in case.

Kane: Ay, I think you got something we want, missy.

Amy: Huh? (Amy looks up to see the two Ballas members looking down at her.) What do you chumps want?

Little Weasel: Who you callin’ a chump? Listen, we want that jewel you got, and you’re gonna give it to us unless you want the cap. (Little Weasel pulls out a glock. We cut to Beat skating out of his alley to see this happening.)

Beat: Looks like trouble. (Beat skates towards them. We cut to Kane reaching for the Shadow Crystal shard as Amy looks on in horror. We then hear Beat’s voice.) Don’t you fellas know how to treat the ladies? (Kane and Little Weasel look behind them to see Beat.)

Kane: And who the f*ck are you?

Beat: Who are you? This place is property of the GG’s. So back off, yo.

Kane: GG’s? Nah man, this is Ballos territory.

Beat: I don’t know what the hell a Ballos is, but this is GG’s. Here. (He shakes his spray can.) I’ll show you. (Beat sprays Kane with orange paint as he coughs and falls back. Little Weasel points his gun towards Beat, but Amy pulls out her hammer.)

Amy: Nice try! (She hits Little Weasel across the back of his head and he falls over.)

Little Weasel: F*ck man!

Beat: Haha! (Kane pulls out a knife, gets up, and lunges towards Beat. He swipes twice as Beat skates backwards, laughing. Kane sends a kick at Beat and knocks him backwards. Beat then does a handstand and flips back onto his skates.)

Little Weasel: Get back here you little sh*t! (Little Weasel begins shooting at Beat.)

Beat: Woah! (Beat skates away as bullets hit the walls behind him. Beat jumps onto a nearby trash can and grabs the lid off of one next to it. He throws it like a frisbee as it hits Little Weasel in the head.)

Little Weasel: Ay man! Sh*t!

Kane: (Grabbing Little Weasel’s gun.) Give me that, you b*tch! (We see Beat skating away as a bullet hits the wheel of his skate. Beat falls forward onto his chest.)

Beat: Oof!

Kane: Got you now, d*ck.

Amy: That’s not very nice! (Amy runs in front of Beat and holds her arms out.) You want him, you go through me!

Kane: If you insist. (Kane grabs Amy’s wrist and throws her behind him. We see the Shadow Crystal shard bounce out of Amy’s pocket and further into the alley.) Now.

Amy: Hey! (We see Amy get up.) I'm not finished yet! (Amy pulls out her hammer once again. Kane turns to face her as she uppercuts him with her hammer.) Yah! (Amy then crashes her hammer into Kane's side, knocking him away. She helps Beat up.) You okay, kid?

Beat: Still kickin’. (We see Kane and Little Weasel get up.)

Kane: So you want trouble? We’ll give you trouble. (Kane whistles as we see two Ballas members appear at the staircase from before, wielding a baseball bat and a steel pipe. To the other members.) Get that skater punk and pink b*tch!

Beat: We’ve done it now. (Amy grabs Beat’s arm.)

Amy: Do something! (Beat turns around and jumps up to grab a fire escape on the building next to them. He reaches down and grabs Amy’s hand as a Ballas member barely misses her with a baseball bat.)

Little Weasel: Get ‘em! (We see them begin scaling the building. We cut to the Ballas gang at the top of the building as we see Beat jumping to the next building over.)

Kane: They’re getting away! (The gang runs after Beat. We see Amy hiding behind an air conditioning unit on the roof. Once the Ballas gang leaves she jumps back down into the alley.)

Amy: Those guys are tough, but they sure are stupid. (She walks over to pick up the Shadow Crystal shard. As she does, a giant hand suddenly erupts from the ground right next to it. Amy looks up in horror as a shadow looms over her. The camera cuts to see a Gargantuar (Plants vs Zombies) holding a telephone pole with Stubbs on its back. The Gargantuar roars and pounds its chest. Stubbs looks down at Amy.)

Stubbs: Brains! (Amy grabs the Shadow Crystal shard.)

Amy: I really don’t think this day can get any worse! (Amy starts running away as the Gargantuar follows. We see Amy exit up the stairs as onlookers stare. The Gargantuar then comes through as the pedestrians scream and run away.)

(We cut back to the Ballas gang chasing Beat on the rooftops as Beat suddenly jumps off of one and lands on a staircase railing, grinding on it. The people on the stairs shriek as he then jumps off and starts skating into a park. We cut back to the Ballas gang.)

Kane: He’s in the park! Get down there and catch that f*ck! (We go back to Beat as he skates through the park. He skates past Reggie Rowe (inFAMOUS) and Alex (Minecraft) who jumps up in confusion. Beat then grinds on a fountain in the park, frightening Kine (Kirby) who was swimming in it.)

Beat: Yahoo! (Beat then grinds on the staircase leading out of the park as two Ballas members suddenly block him on a motorcycle.)

Member #1: Gotcha! (Beat jumps over them, spraying paint onto them. He begins skating away.) Yach!

Member #2: Ay man, he’s getting away! (The gang member steps on the gas as they give chase.)

(We cut to Chuck on his motorcycle as he waits at an intersection. We see Beat and the gang members ride past him.)

Chuck: Huh? (We then hear Amy yelling as she runs past with the Gargantuar chasing her.) Zombies?! (We hear people screaming as Chuck turns to see three zombies chasing people on the sidewalk. Chuck revs up his motorcycle and rides over, running over one zombie. Chuck then gets off and kicks a zombie to the curb. The last zombie grabs Chuck’s shoulder, but Chuck grabs him by the collar and slams him over his head.) Undead freaks! (Chuck then gets back onto his motorcycle and rides off towards the Gargantuar.)

(We cut back to Amy as she’s chased through the streets. She stops as she sees a horde of zombies coming out of the ground in front of her.)

Zombies: Braaaiiins.

Amy: I don't want it to end like this. (Amy looks back and forth at the zombies surrounding her. Suddenly, Chuck rides in and stops in front of Amy.)

Chuck: Hop on!

Amy: Don’t have to tell me twice! (Amy hops on and Chuck drives his motorcycle straight through the horde, killing any zombies he hits. We cut back to Beat’s chase as a car suddenly pulls in front of him. Remodeling of a building is happening nearby.)

Beat: Woah! Look out! (Beat screeches to a stop as the Ballas motorcycle drives through, with them hitting Beat with a bat and knocking him down. The motorcycle stops at the car as Kane and Little Weasel come out of it.)

Kane: You thought you could take us on, b*tch? (Beat starts to get up as Chuck and Amy pull up.)

Chuck: (To Kane.) Get out of the way, you f*cking idiots!

Little Weasel: Some more c*cksuckers who wanna take on Ballas? (Large footsteps are heard as the Ballas gang look up in shock. We see the Gargantuar come up behind our heroes with Stubbs on its back still. Stubbs burps and pulls out one of his organs. He throws it.)

Amy: Look out! (Amy pulls Chuck and Beat out of the way as the organ explodes. The blast reaches the Ballas gang and they begin coughing. They turn green as they’re turned into zombies.)

Kane: Brains.

Little Weasel: Brains!

Beat: This is most disturbing.

Chuck: We gotta kill them all before they infect this whole city.

Amy: (Taking out hammer.) It’ll be a breeze. (Our heroes charge towards the zombies. We see Amy smash a zombie as Chuck punches the Ballas zombie with the bat. The zombie drops it and Chuck picks it up, smashing it into a zombie behind him. We then see the Gargantuar smash his telephone pole down, attempting to hit Beat who skates out of the way. Beat then grinds up the telephone pole and jumps over the Gargantuar’s head, spraying paint onto Stubbs.)

Beat: Hope you like the taste of paint! (Beat lands on the Little Weasel zombie and keeps skating past zombies. Stubbs retaliates by throwing an Imp (Plants vs Zombies) at our heroes.)

Imp: Yahaha! (We see the Imp get hit by Chuck’s bat in midair. Chuck runs over to where the remodeling of the building was happening. He finds a toolbox and reaches in to get a box of nails.)

Chuck: Yes! (We see Chuck crafting with the bat and nails as Amy smashes her hammer into the other Ballos zombie behind Chuck. Chuck then reveals a bat with nails in it and runs over to smash it into the head of a zombie. We cut to Beat doing a backflip and kicking the Kane zombie in the head. He then turns around and sprays paint into the mouth of a zombie.)

Zombie: Blegh! (Beat is then hit away by the telephone pole and hits a wall.)

Beat: Hurk! (We then see Chuck run up to the Gargantuar and hit it in the knee with his bat with nails. The Gargantuar groans in pain before grabbing Chuck and throwing him. We see Amy running towards the Gargantuar.)

Amy: Here I co- Ugh! (Chuck is thrown into her. We then see Beat skating through zombies, spraying his paint at every zombie he passes. We then see a crowd of zombies surrounding Amy.) Taste my hammer! (Amy starts spinning around with her hammer, smashing into every zombie surrounding her. We then see Chuck smash a zombie in the stomach with his bat.)

Chuck: Yah! (We cut to Amy who runs up to the Gargantuar.)

Amy: Hey, you big bully! (The Gargantuar points to himself.)

Gargantuar: Brains?

Amy: Yeah, you. How do you like this? (Amy smashes her hammer into his knee. The Gargantuar groans and leans towards the ground. Chuck then runs up and smashes his bat into the Gargantuar’s head, smashing into its skull, killing it. The Gargantuar falls flat. Stubbs looks around, now fearful.)

Stubbs: Uh… brains! (Stubbs begins to flee. Beat quickly skates in front of him.)

Beat: Not so fast, greenie! (Stubbs looks afraid for a second before gripping Beat’s collar.) Woah! Just kiddin, man! (Stubbs is about to bite into Beat’s head, but Amy runs in and hits Stubbs’ head with her hammer. His head explodes on contact. Chuck walks over and joins him.)

Amy: Should be the last of those undead uglies.

Beat: Thanks, miss.

Amy: It’s Amy. Amy Rose.

Beat: Beat, member of the GG’s. (The two shake hands. Amy looks over at Chuck.)

Amy: And you?

Chuck: Chuck Greene. (He looks at the carnage.) Always more zombies.

Amy: (Pulls out the Shadow Crystal shard.) Still got this at least.

Beat: Cool stone.

Chuck: Something’s off with that jewel.

Amy: Found it in an alley. Might be some sort of Chaos Emerald.

Chuck: You two better come with me for now, things are gonna get a lot worse before they get better. (We cut to Chuck, Amy, and Beat riding away on Chuck’s motorcycle. The view then goes dark. For a brief moment, we see an image of the Shadow Crystal breaking.)

End of Episode

Chapter 7: Trigger Happy Havoc

(The episode begins at night looking onto a deserted street. We hear punching happening from above as suddenly, as it gets louder, a hulking figure drops from the rooftops above and slams his fists on the ground. The figure stands up straight, revealing himself to be Rick Taylor. He’s wearing the Terror Mask.)

Terror Mask: Finally, back to murdering. Been too long. I’m out of practice.

Rick: I hope we lost those guys. (We hear the sound of guns as bullets suddenly start firing at Rick. He shields his face with his arm as multiple bullets fly into him. Rick starts running away and jumps behind a parked car.)

Terror Mask: You’re hiding? When did you become such a p*ssy? (The camera pans up to the rooftop to see two Reapers (inFAMOUS) shooting at Rick with AK’s. We cut back to Rick as he hoists the parked car above his head and throws it at the Reapers. The Reapers try to run away, but the car hits them both and crushes them.) Nice shot, Rick-o. Don’t stop now.

Rick: I’m getting out of here! (We see Rick jump halfway up a different building and grab on. He then jumps again from where he’s grabbing and gets onto the roof. He runs off. We cut back to where the Reapers are, as Sasha (inFAMOUS), as well as seven other Reapers approach the car.)

Reaper #1: He got away again.

Sasha: Another conduit, wearing the symbol of our gang. I want him dead and at my feet.

Reaper #2: We’ve tried. We can’t find him during the day. (Sasha grabs his neck.)

Sasha: Then find out who he is and shoot his f*cking head off. (She lets go and the camera zooms out as they begin walking away. We see the silhouette of a bear-shaped head watching the Reapers.)

???: Interesting.

(We cut to the daytime as the camera focuses on a school. We cut inside to a classroom as we see a group of students taking a test, among them is Jimmy Hopkins, who is facedown on his desk, sleeping. We hear a voice speak to the students.)

???: Alright, class, that’s it. Turn in your tests. (The camera pans to the front of the classroom to see Wonder Red in his normal attire and persona, Will Wedgewood. We go back to the students getting up from their seats as Jimmy wakes up.)

Jimmy: Huh? (He looks around. He then gets up with his test and goes to the front of the class with everyone else and puts it on Wonder Red’s desk. He begins to leave behind the other students.)

Wonder Red: Mr. Hopkins, can I speak with you for a second? (Jimmy turns around.)

Jimmy: Sure, whatever. (Jimmy turns back to talk to Wonder Red.)

Wonder Kid: Listen, Jimmy, I know that transitioning to a new school, let alone a summer school, is tough.

Jimmy: No sh*t, Mr. Wedgewood.

Wonder Red: (Stern.) Language, young man. As I was saying, I noticed your grades haven’t been doing too great since you’ve arrived, and I want you to know that I’m here if you need to talk to someone about this.

Jimmy: You think this has been a tough transition? You think? I was teleported away from all of my family and friends. My only clothes are my uniform from that prison Bullworth Academy. You of all people should know this, I know you’re like me. You joined this school the same way I did.

Wonder Red: Now, Jimmy…

Jimmy: I don’t wanna hear your bullsh*t answers. The looks I get on the street are enough to realize I’m not welcome here. So don’t try to lecture me. (A male scream is suddenly heard from outside the classroom.)

Wonder Red: Not again. (Wonder Red rushes out of the classroom with Jimmy behind him. They rush up to a group of students, containing Juliet Starling (Lollipop Chainsaw) and Stan Jones (ObsCure) in the crowd. Stan is in tears as our heroes rush up.) What’s the problem?

Stan: She’s… she’s… (The camera pans to see the bloodied, dead body of Shannon Matthews (ObsCure) on the ground. Dr. Lobe (Big Brain Academy) is also in the crowd trying to shoo students away.)

Dr. Lobe: (Waving his hands.) Students, please. The police are on their way. Please don’t crowd the area. (We cut back to Wonder Red and Jimmy.)

Wonder Red: Not another one. This is the third murder since I got here. (Jimmy walks away from the scene. We cut to Jimmy walking outside. Suddenly, a voice is heard.)

???: Well, welly, well, if it isn’t the troubled teen. (Jimmy looks around to find the source of the voice, but can’t.)

Jimmy: Who the hell said that?

???: Over here, numb nuts! (The camera pans to see Monokuma hiding behind a lamppost. He walks out from behind it and greets Jimmy.)

Jimmy: What the hell are you?

Monokuma: You know how many times I’ve gotten that question lately? Like nobody’s seen a polar bear before.

Jimmy: What do you want with me, you freak?

Monokuma: I’ve been observing you for awhile, Jimbo, and I must say, I like your style. You’re a grade A bully, kid.

Jimmy: Yeah? So what?

Monokuma: Listen, those murders that have been happening around the school? All my idea! This boring school needed some excitement. And I just so happen to have a spot open for a partner after the last kid flew the coop. So whaddya say? How would you like to apprentice good ol’ Monokuma to torture this school and take this world for ourselves?

Jimmy: You want me to help you in your sick game?

Monokuma: Yup yup yup! Hit the nail square on the noggin! (He laughs.)

Jimmy: (Walks away.) Not interested.

Monokuma: Wait! Just what do you think you’re doing walking away from me?!

Jimmy: I’m not teaming up with some wimpy teddy bear to murder people. That’s f*cked up. Besides, you’re probably one of those robotics nerds trying to prank me with some new invention. (Jimmy leaves.)

Monokuma: That kid just made a big mistake. (A loud noise is heard.) What the…? (Monokuma sees a figure dart behind a corner to the back of the school.) Uhuhuhuhu, something new. (We see Monokuma lurk to the back of the school as he spies Rick opening the doors to the school’s basement.) You again… I think I have an idea. (Monokuma laughs and runs off. We cut to Rick sitting down in the basement and putting his hand on his head.)

Rick: (To Terror Mask.) Why won’t you get off my face? I want to be free.

Terror Mask: Our deal isn’t over yet, Rick. I still have… uses… for you.

Rick: I can’t keep doing this. I’m making entirely new enemies now.

Terror Mask: We made a deal, and you’re gonna stick to that deal until it’s done. Now stop whining, we have work to do.

Rick: Jenny… I wish you were here. (We cut to night as Sasha and the Reapers meet in an abandoned building. Sasha sits at a table as the Reapers stand around her.)

Sasha: Where is he?! (She slams her fist.) I want that man dead!

???: Excuse me, perhaps I can help.

Sasha: Who said that? (The Reapers part, confused, and reveal Monokuma. He walks up to Sasha while speaking.)

Monokuma: I’ve become quite a fan of your gang. From that concert disaster, to robbing that bank, even now in your fight against that masked man.

Sasha: What do you know about him, bear?

Monokuma: I know his exact whereabouts. You’d be able to walk in as he’s getting his beauty sleep and slit his throat. That easy.

Sasha: (Getting up.) Tell me where he is.

Monokuma: I like your excitement, but I’m gonna need a little favor first. (We zoom in on Monokuma.) You see, there’s this kid…

(We cut to the daytime as we focus on the school again. We see students sitting at their desks as Wonder Red calls out names.)

Wonder Red: Albert Flook.

Student #1: Here.

Wonder Red: Montgomery Foster.

Student #2: Here.

Wonder Red: Jimmy Hopkins. (No answer. Wonder Red looks up.) Mr. Hopkins? (Jimmy isn’t there. Wonder Red shakes his head.) Running late. (We cut to the indoor entrance to the school as the school security guard paces through. The doors suddenly burst open as the Reapers kick it down. The security guard draws a gun but Sasha teleports behind him.)

Sasha: Hello there. (We cut back to the classroom as a scream is heard. Wonder Red looks towards the door.)

Wonder Red: Class, stay here. I’ll be right back. (Wonder Red exits the classroom. He walks down the hall as Sasha and the Reapers turn the corner.)

Sasha: (Pointing.) Another one! (The Reapers begin firing as Wonder Red jumps out of the way into a nearby storage closet. Once he's safe, he throws a few punches before striking a pose with his fists in the air.)

Wonder Red: Wonder-eyes, Red! (The camera zooms in on his eyes as a mask appears on him. We zoom back out to see Wonder Red fully in costume. We cut to two Reapers approaching the closet door as it suddenly flies off its hinges and knocks them into a wall. Wonder Red steps out.)

Sasha: Another conduit?

Wonder Red: (Pointing at Sasha.) Lay your arms down or lay your life down for the Wonderful 101!

Sasha: Funny, I only see one. Get him! (More Reapers begin running up to Wonder Red. He summons his Unite Fist which punches the group of Reapers down. Other Reapers begin shooting as Wonder Red dives behind a locker. He uses the Unite Hand to grab it and throw it at two Reapers.)

Wonder Red: Yes! (Sasha teleports behind him.)

Sasha: All you superheroes are the same. (She grabs him by his cape and slams him against the wall. She drops him as he staggers up, ready to fight again.)

(We cut outside to see Jimmy skateboarding to school.)

Jimmy: Another boring day with Mr. Wedgewood. (The camera zooms in on Jimmy’s backpack.) At least these fireworks should make class more interesting. (We see Jimmy arrive at school. He starts walking up to the building before he hears Monokuma’s laughter.) That laugh again. (Jimmy walks to the side of the school to see two Reapers and Monokuma turning the opposite corner.)

Monokuma: Come on, boys! We have revenge to take!

Jimmy: What’s he up to? (We cut to Rick still in the school basement as the door suddenly opens. Rick shields his eyes from the sunlight as we hear Monokuma’s voice.)

Monokuma: Here he is, fellas! The white whale. (The two Reapers reach Rick and point their guns at him.)

Rick: How did you find me?

Monokuma: You’re not exactly Where’s Waldo here. Wasn’t hard to spot the roided-up masked man. (We see Jimmy reach the basement stairs down.) You’re really just collateral until I find that punky bully, but who’s keeping track? Oh right. Me! (Jimmy’s face hardens.) Now, just close your eyes and it’ll all be over soon.

Jimmy: Yah! (Jimmy jumps down and slams his skateboard onto a Reaper’s head, knocking him out. The other Reaper turns to Jimmy, who then rams his full body into the Reaper, knocking them both over.) That hurt more than I thought. (The Reaper gets up, but is immediately punched into the wall by Rick. The wall cracks. Rick then helps Jimmy up.)

Rick: Thanks for the help, kid.

Jimmy: Yeah, didn’t know they were hiding a monster under here.

Terror Mask: I like this punk. (We hear Monokuma laugh again, this time from the basement entrance.)

Monokuma: Whatever. The real danger is in the school. Wanna play hero, boys? (He laughs again and leaves.)

Rick: There must be more of them in the school. I gotta help them. (Jimmy cracks his knuckles.)

Jimmy: Leave the bear to me.

Rick: Uh… sure. (They run up the stairs.)

(We cut back to Sasha as she summons two tar tentacles from the ground. They both shoot red energy balls which hit Wonder Red and knock him down.)

Wonder Red: Urgh!

Sasha: You’re much weaker than the other one. This will be easy. (Rick’s scream is suddenly heard as he smashes his fists into the remaining Reapers around Sasha. He turns to Sasha.)

Rick: I’m the one you want, so bring it on!

Sasha: Finally. Looks like that bear was right. Your skull mask is an insult to the Reapers.

Terror Mask: This b*tch sure loves to talk. (Sasha sends out a large, red energy pulse at Rick. He’s hit back by it and is pushed hard into a wall, cracking it.) Get up, Rick.

Rick: Ugh… I’m on it. (Rick jumps up and starts grabbing the lockers and throwing them at Sasha. She teleports out of the way and ends up behind Rick.)

Wonder Red: Behind you! (Rick turns around and slams a locker onto Sasha.)

Sasha: Ah! (We cut to Jimmy running through the school.)

Monokuma: Well, Jimmy, you should’ve taken me up on my offer. Would’ve saved you a lot of trouble. (Jimmy looks around, unable to find Monokuma.) Looks like I’ll have to teach you some manners. (We cut to a door opening as three Monokumas walk out. We cut again to see two exit a locker. Another four fall from the ceiling.)

Jimmy: This is messed up. (A large crowd of Monokumas now surrounds Jimmy.)

Monokuma: Allow me to introduce you to a good friend of mine: me! (The Monokumas begin to swarm Jimmy. They all start scratching at his legs as he quickly backs up. Jimmy takes out a slingshot and starts shooting pebbles at the Monokumas.)

Jimmy: I’m warnin’ ya! Get away from me!

Monokuma: Thrills! Chills! Kills! (The other Monokumas laugh. Jimmy turns and sees a fire extinguisher on the wall. He grabs it and starts spraying the Monokumas.) Really? That’s your attack?

Jimmy: You’re right. I should be more hands-on. (Jimmy starts slamming the fire extinguisher into the heads of the Monokumas. This starts knocking them over, breaking their heads and killing them. Jimmy goes in for another attack, but a Monokuma grabs it.)

Monokuma: Ooh! A new toy! (The Monokuma sprays at Jimmy, causing him to run away. The Monokumas run after him, laughing.)

(We cut to Wonder Red using his Unite Fist on Sasha, who teleports out of the way. She ends up behind him, but Rick jumps in and punches her away.)

Wonder Red: Thanks for the assist!

Rick: No problem. (Sasha gets up.)

Sasha: Try this one, boys. (She summons six tar tentacles which all shoot red energy balls at our heroes. Rick uses his body to guard Wonder Red, taking every hit. He keels over.)

Rick: God, that hurt! (Sasha teleports onto Rick’s back and grabs him by the throat.)

Sasha: All bark and no bite. Guess I’ll just wring what bite you have out of your neck!

Wonder Red: Not so fast! (Wonder Red uses Unite Fist to grab Sasha. It tries to pull her off, but her grip is tight.)

Sasha: Try all you might, your poor friend is going to die. (Wonder Red looks on in terror before he suddenly hears stampeding feet.)

Wonder Red: Huh? (He looks back to see Jimmy running down the hall, being chased by the Monokumas.)

Jimmy: Out of the way! (Sasha looks back and is grabbed by Rick. Rick pulls Sasha off of him as the Unite Hand disappears. Rick throws Sasha to the ground. She struggles to get up. We then see Jimmy take out a lighter and take off his backpack. He lights the lighter and drops it in his backpack once he unzips it.) Try this out. (We hear a sizzling sound as he passes Sasha, dropping his backpack. Jimmy passes Rick and Wonder Red.) It’s gonna blow! (Rick and Wonder Red follow.)

Wonder Red: What’s in that bag? (Sasha looks up as the Monokumas reach her. The backpack then violently explodes with firework sounds and bright colors. Our heroes block their eyes.)

Terror Mask: I love a good firework show. (Once the smoke settles, we see the corpse of Sasha and bits and pieces of the Monokumas. We cut to outside the school as the police go inside. Jimmy is talking to Rick and Wonder Red.)

Rick: That’s it for the Reapers.

Jimmy: Didn’t know this lame school had superheroes.

Rick: That’s one way to put it.

Jimmy: You two have to help me get back home. If anyone can, it’s you.

Wonder Red: You can’t just bail on your school. Studies come first.

Jimmy: No, getting back to my own world comes first. If we can take out all those people, we can figure out a way out of here.

Rick: Not the worst idea.

Jimmy: Either I’m going with you, or I’m going alone.

Wonder Red: (Shrugs.) Guess I’m going with you. Someone has to find a way home.

Rick: For Jenny…

Terror Mask: Finally, you made some friends. Now, don’t f*ck this up. (The camera pans up as our heroes begin leaving the school. Monokuma’s laugh is heard.)

End of Episode

Chapter 8: Welcome to the Family

(The episode begins in a graveyard. A tombstone comes into view as a Misdreavus (Pokemon) floats past it. We cut to the sky and see a flock of Crowbers (Super Mario) fly by as the camera pans down to see a figure with a flashlight in his chest pocket. We cut to the feet of the figure walking through the graveyard as the camera slowly pans up, revealing this figure to be James Sunderland.)

James: Hello? Is anyone out there? (To himself.) Just my luck… (James reaches the top of a hill and looks around. The camera turns to see a small cabin in the distance.) A house. I’m saved! (James begins running towards the cabin but soon trips over.) Ow! (James looks back to see a safe on the ground.) A safe? (James gets up and walks over to the safe. He crouches down to observe it. He touches the safe and attempts to open it with no luck.) D*mn.

(Suddenly, a radio in James' pocket starts emitting radio static. We see James become startled by this as he stands back up and takes the radio out of his pocket, his back towards the safe.)

James: My radio? Why’s this thing going off? (James fiddles with his radio as we hear the sound of chains clanking. The camera cuts behind James as the safe begins to stand up, revealing it to be the Keeper. The Keeper towers above James and raises his hammer. We see James finally turn off the radio and turn back around to the Keeper.) Aaah! (James falls backwards as the Keeper misses his swing towards James’ head.) No! Not more monsters!

(James looks behind him and sees a shovel laying next to a grave. He looks back to the Keeper, about to strike once more, as James rolls out of the way just as the Keeper’s hammer hits the ground. James runs to the grave and grabs the shovel. He then turns back and hits the Keeper twice in the head with the shovel, doing nothing. The Keeper retaliates by hitting James away with his meat sack.)

James: Agh! (James lands on his back, clutching his chest. We cut to the patio of the cabin as we hear the door open. A pair of feet appear on the balcony.)

???: What have we here? (We cut back to James as he hits the Keeper across the chest with the spade of the shovel, cutting his chest. The Keeper grabs his chest as he shambles towards James. The Keeper slashes his hammer across James’ face, hitting his head with the blunt end which knocks James back as he hits his head on a tombstone.)

James: Ugh! My… head. (We cut to the perspective of James as his vision blurs and his eyes slowly open and close. The Keeper is seen slowly walking towards James. Suddenly, a figure runs into view and shoulders the Keeper down. We see the figure stomp on the Keeper’s body. The figure then walks towards James as we see that the figure is Jack Baker. We see Jack wretch the shovel away from James as he gets in James’ face.)

Jack: Welcome to the family, son! (Jack slams the shovel into James’ face as the screen goes black.)

(We cut to a different part of the graveyard as we see the Hunter passing through, armed with his saw cleaver and blunderbuss. The Hunter leans down to check a grave with a Disembodied Hand (MediEvil) crawling on top of it.)

Hunter: This world isn’t safe from monsters.

???: More than you think. (The Hunter gets back up and turns around to see King Rhoam (The Legend of Zelda) cloaked and looking upon the Hunter.)

Hunter: You are?

Rhoam: Just an observer. I’ve seen terrible things happening in this countryside. I can only imagine how the rest of the world is doing. (Rhoam approaches the Hunter.)

Hunter: Tell me what you’ve seen.

Rhoam: I can see that you have the soul of a hero. I’ve seen that look before. (Rhoam pauses.) Find the combination, destroy the cursed man, and, if you must do one thing, befriend the devil. Complete these tasks and we’ll be one step closer to saving this world. (The Hunter turns around for a moment looking at the haunting landscape.)

Hunter: Your riddles, what do they mean? (The Hunter turns back to see Rhoam now gone. He looks around, unable to find him.) Befriend the devil. Okay. (The Hunter walks away.)

(We cut back to James waking up.)

James: Where… where am I? (The camera pans out to see James tied by a rope around a chair. He’s seated at a dinner table in what appears to be a dining room. He struggles to get out. We hear Jack’s voice.)

Jack: Don’t bother trying to get out of there, boy. I’ve got you tied up tight. (The camera pans to see Jack entering the room with a shovel. He lays it on the table, where a roast turkey, a bowl of mashed potatoes, a bowl of salad, and multiple plates and silverware lay. Jack pulls up a seat next to James.)

James: Who are you? Why am I here?

Jack: You’re the newest member of the Baker family, boy. You’re the key. The key to getting everyone back.

James: Who?

Jack: Who do you think, boy? My family. (Jack slams his fist on the table.) When that f*cking flash took me away from Marguerite… my children… well, I nearly d*mn lost it. But now that I have you… (Jack stands up and looks at James.) They’ll be coming back soon. I know they will. And if they don’t… (Jack grabs the shovel again.) Well, I’ll know you’re a dud. And then I’ll have no use for ya.

James: Please untie me. I need to get home.

Jack: Do you have a family, boy?

James: (Pauses. Looks down.) No…

Jack: Just a man without a family. You don’t know how it feels. (Jack walks towards what’s presumably the kitchen.) I tried to explain that to the house’s last owner, but he didn’t listen. (He looks back towards James.) I’ll be right back, boy. Stay right there. (Jack exits.)

(We cut back to the Hunter walking through the countryside. Tombstones litter the area. We see a pair of red eyes on a column behind the Hunter. The Hunter suddenly stops and looks back towards it, but they’re gone.)

Hunter: I believe I’m losing my sanity. (The camera cuts to the column as we see the Hunter walk away. The camera pans down to see Jersey Devil hiding behind the column. He quickly darts out of hiding to follow the Hunter. Jersey Devil quickly jumps behind a tombstone. He quickly looks over it to glance at the Hunter before hiding again. A few seconds pass before the tombstone is suddenly sliced in half. Jersey Devil jumps up to see that the one responsible is the Hunter, who used his saw cleaver.)

Hunter: You’re following me, aren’t you? (Jersey Devil doesn’t answer as the Hunter approaches him.) Answer me, demon. (Jersey Devil’s eyes narrow as he runs towards the Hunter and delivers a punch towards the Hunter’s chest. It sends him back a few feet, with the Hunter using his heels to stop himself.) So you choose, and so you shall die. (The Hunter raises his blunderbuss and begins shooting at Jersey Devil. Jersey Devil dives out of the way before leaping up and unfurling his wings. He glides towards the Hunter before doing a spinning attack and hitting the Hunter with his tail.)

(The Hunter is knocked back a bit before slashing at Jersey Devil with his saw cleaver. The cleaver knicks Jersey Devil’s left shoulder as he grasps it. Jersey Devil jumps and tries to punch again, but the Hunter rolls out of the way and shoots Jersey Devil, skinning his arm. We cut to a different part of the graveyard with many bushes. The gunshot rings out, and the bushes stand up, revealing them to be Ents (Souls). The Ents start running towards the source of the sound as the camera pans down to see the head of the Keeper. It rattles. We cut back to the Hunter walking up to a hurt Jersey Devil.)

Hunter: Not much of a challenge. (The Hunter raises his blunderbuss, but his arm is grabbed by a vine.) Huh? (He turns around to see five Ents, one of which has a hold on him. The Ent starts to drag the Hunter towards him. He tries to release himself, but can’t. Jersey Devil then jumps in and breaks the vine with his wing. The Hunter gets up.) Thanks.

(Jersey Devil runs up towards an Ent and does another spin attack, knocking it down. We then cut to the Hunter as he slashes two of them in half with his saw cleaver. We see one Ent whip his vine and hit Jersey Devil down. Jersey Devil then jumps up and glides towards the Ent, delivering a punch towards it. We then cut to the Hunter taking out the Blacksky Eye as he uses it to fire an arcane projectile at the last Ent, destroying it.)

Hunter: That’s the last one. (Jersey Devil joins the Hunter’s side.) You’re a Jersey Devil, are you not? (Jersey Devil nods. The Hunter bows.) I apologize for attacking you. I have been on edge since my arrival. Please, allow me to offer you protection in return. (Jersey Devil nods. The two then turn to the countryside to see the same cabin from before.) Perhaps we can find safety there. (The two begin walking off as the Keeper stands behind them.)

(We cut to James still struggling to get out of his binds in the dining room.)

James: C’mon, I gotta get out of here. (James’ eyes fixate on the carving knife next to the turkey on the table. He looks around, searching for Jack. Once he thinks it’s safe, he starts scooting his chair around the side of the table to get to the knife.) How am I gonna grab it? (James thinks for a moment and then comes up with something. We see him rearrange himself so that his hands, behind the chair back, face the table. He slams his chair’s legs on the ground and the table rattles. He does it again, it rattles. We cut to the basement as Jack raids the fridge, he hears the sounds from above.)

Jack: Sounds like someone’s trying to skip dinner. (Jack stands up and grabs a chainsaw on a tool bench. We see a corpse on the tool bench, presumably the cabin’s previous owner. We cut back to James as he slams the chair again. This is enough to shake the carving knife off of the table and into James’ hands, as well as a few plates which smash on impact.)

James: Hope he didn’t hear that. (James cuts through the rope around his hands fairly easily. He then begins on the rope around his torso. We then see Jack emerge from the basement and eye James.)

Jack: Trying to get out of dinner, boy!? (He revs up his chainsaw.) Big mistake! (Jack begins running towards James as he tries to quickly free himself. James cuts the rope just as Jack reaches the dining room. James dives away from Jack as he trips over the chair onto the table, breaking it. James tries to exit the room, but Jack swings his chainsaw at him.) You’re not getting out that easy! (James readies his knife.)

(We cut outside to the Hunter and Jersey Devil outside the cabin. They hear the commotion coming from inside.)

Hunter: What’s going on? (As they stop, we see the Keeper approaching them from behind. The Keeper’s chains rattle, notifying the Hunter as he turns around just in time to see the Keeper bringing his hammer down. It knocks into the Hunter’s shoulder as he tries to dodge. This bloodies his shoulder as he drops his saw cleaver to hold his arm. The Hunter raises his blunderbuss and shoots at the Keeper as it approaches him again, the bullets barely doing anything. Suddenly, Jersey Devil leaps up, wings out, and does a spin attack, hitting the Keeper with his tail. The Keeper turns to Jersey Devil and slashes at him with his meat sack. Jersey Devil jumps back and retaliates by punching the Keeper in the stomach.)

(We cut back to the fight between James and Jack. Jack keeps swinging his chainsaw at James while he continuously backs up.)

Jack: Gonna hit me? Gonna do something? Bet you wish you had a family now, huh boy? (After another swing from Jack, James lunges forward and plunges the carving knife into his chest. Blood gushes out, but Jack still stays up. James looks up at him in terror.)

James: What… what are you?

Jack: Don’t f*ck with me. (Jack swings again as James backs up. He grabs a plate and throws it at Jack’s head, smashing it. Jack is still unphased.)

(We cut back to the Keeper fight as Jersey Devil glides towards him. The Keeper grabs Jersey Devil by the neck and throws him against the cabin. He falls to the ground. The Hunter then runs up and slashes the Keeper with his saw cleaver. It slashes across the Keeper’s chest as he counters with his meat sack, knocking the Hunter onto the patio of the cabin. Jersey Devil runs up and helps him up.)

Hunter: This one puts up a fight. (We see the Keeper walk onto the balcony in front of them. We cut back to James and Jack as James trips and falls backwards onto the ground.)

James: Augh!

Jack: Looks like your time is up. (He revs his chainsaw.) Tell the devil Jack Baker sent ya. (We cut back to the patio as the Keeper approaches. It raises its meat sack and attempts to slam it onto the Hunter and Jersey Devil. However, they roll/jump out of the way. The Hunter then gets behind the Keeper and plunges the saw cleaver through it, into the wall of the cabin. We cut back into the cabin as the saw cleaver goes through Jack right above James' head, cutting him in half at the waist.)

James: Oh God! (Jack’s top half falls back, dropping the chainsaw as James scrambles away from the saw cleaver. The saw cleaver comes out of the wall as that wall portion collapses. We see the Keeper clutching his cut as he walks towards the Hunter and Jersey Devil again. We then hear the sound of a chainsaw, as it slices the Keeper’s head off. The rest of the body lands on the patio, revealing James, and dissolves into the ground. James turns the chainsaw off and throws it down as he meets the others.) Thank God you two showed up. (James walks towards them.)

Hunter: Who are you?

James: James Sunderland. I was kidnapped by the creep in there. (He points to the hole in the wall as Jack’s upper half crawls out of it.)

Jack: Get… back here! I’m… not… done! (The Hunter raises his blunderbuss and shoots Jack’s head off. The body goes limp.)

Hunter: That should handle him.

James: Uh… thanks. Do you happen to know a way out?

Hunter: Just stay near me. I have done as the spirits have asked, and we are safe for now. (The Hunter begins to walk off, being followed by Jersey Devil.)

James: Well, at least we’re safe. (James follows. We see our heroes walking away as the camera pans up to a full moon.)

End of Episode

Chapter 9: Interlude

(The episode begins inside a packed school cafeteria. A young boy with dark hair and glasses is sitting alone at one of the tables with a lunch tray with pizza and a juice. The young boy is playing on a game system which looks similar to a Gameboy, but seems altered and is a dark purple. The boy looks focused on the game as a voice is heard.)

???: What’re you playing? (The boy looks up to see another boy who’s slightly chubby and holding his own tray of pizza and juice.)

Boy #1: Oh… uh… Knights of Grimm. It’s an adventure game for my PlayAway.

Boy #2: Sweet. (He sits next to the first boy and starts eating pizza.) My mom won’t let me play any video games. She says they’re too violent.

Boy #1: Oh… okay. (He goes back to playing his game.)

Boy #2: I’m Billy, by the way.

Boy #1: I’m Ezekiel. I just moved here.

Billy: Is that why you have no friends? (Nothing is said.) Oops. Sorry, I didn’t mean it like that.

Ezekiel: It’s alright. I’m not good at making friends anyways. Gives me more time to play video games.

Billy: (Finishes eating pizza.) Maybe we can be friends.

Ezekiel: (Putting down game.) Really?

Billy: Yeah! We can play video games together at your house and you can help me with my homework.

Ezekiel: Yeah, that sounds… fun.

Billy: (Picking up Ezekiel’s game.) So, what can you tell me about this game here?

Ezekiel: Well, Grimm is a knight that is framed for a murder he didn’t commit, so you have to play…

A flash of white appears onscreen as the scene changes to the Helghast. We see Master Mind, in his human form, looking down on the city.)

Master Mind: After all these years, I’m finally back in my own world. Do they even remember me? How they laughed at my ideas? (A purple aura begins to envelop Master Mind. We see him transform into his other form.) I’m the master of the multiverse now. I’m making every new day here chaos. (We see Radec walk inside.)

Radec: Awaiting further instructions, Master Mind.

Master Mind: Yes, colonel. I think it’s time we get the rest of your troops out there. I’ll be generous and let you take this city in the name of the Helghan.

Radec: (Bowing.) A most generous offer, Master Mind. I will make the scum of this world fully realize the combined power of the Helghan and Master Mind.

Master Mind: Pull no punches, colonel. I want them all to feel pain. I want this world for myself.

Radec: (Leaving.) I will not disappoint. (He exits. Master Mind is left to himself.)

Master Mind: Bill…Charlotte… you always believed that I would make something of myself. I hope you can see me now. When all is done, I’ll make sure the three of us rule the universe as Gods. Finally, we’ll be reunited. (Master Mind floats in the air and exits the room in the Helghast. The door closes behind him. The camera turns around to see a list of names on a computer monitor. The names are of all of the heroes from New Game. All of them have check marks beside their name, besides Mario, Ratchet, Clank, and Master Chief, which all have an X. The camera slowly zooms in on the list of names as, suddenly, the checkmark next to Link turns into an X.)

End of Episode

Chapter 10: Radiant Dawn

(The episode begins looking above a forest. The sounds of swords clashing and grunting are heard as we cut to inside a forested area. We see Ike as he's pushed backwards, feet dragging on the dirt of the forest. He leans down while gripping his Aether. Yuna (Final Fantasy) comes up behind him and helps him up.)

Yuna: He's too strong, Ike.

Ike: We have to do something. We can't let this monster get away. (The camera cuts to see a sword, the Soul Edge, dragging on the ground. The camera pans around to see Nightmare approaching Ike and Yuna.)

Nightmare: Did you really think you stood a chance against me? I… (He raises the Soul Edge.) am your greatest Nightmare! (Nightmare charges at Ike and Yuna slashing downwards at them as they both dive away. Ike leaps forward to to strike, but Nightmare blocks the blow with his own sword.)

Ike: You're a monster! (Both their swords begin clashing together as each tries to strike the other. Nightmare then hits the Aether downwards and swipes the Soul Edge across Ike's chest. He’s blown back.)

Nightmare: You call yourself a swordsman? (Two projectiles are suddenly shot into Nightmare's back.) Huh? (He turns to see Yuna using her Tiny Bees to shoot at Nightmare.)

Yuna: Are guns more your speed?

Nightmare: You… (Nightmare charges at Yuna as she continuously shoots at him. He blocks a few shots with the Soul Edge before leaping at Yuna and slashing her backwards.)

(We cut to a different part of the forest as we see a pair of boots trudge through. We hear voices and swords clashing in the distance.)

Nightmare: (Far away.) Begone!

???: Hm? (We cut back to Ike and Yuna as they circle around Nightmare.)

Nightmare: This is your last chance to run away. (Ike and Yuna both nod at each other as they suddenly charge towards Nightmare. Suddenly, a figure flies through bashing into Ike with their shield and knocking them through the forest brush.)

???: Hyah!

Yuna: (Stops.) Ike?! (We cut to Ike and the figure rolling down a hill until they both suddenly stop. We see the figure that attacked Ike is Link, now with a dark aura around him and yellow eyes. He raises his shield and Master Sword. Ike gets up and raises his Aether.)

Ike: Prepare yourself. (Link jumps at Ike with his sword, but he blocks the blow. Ike then attempts to strike but Link blocks with his shield. Their two swords begin to clash a few times before Link releases a spin attack. Ike jumps back to avoid it before slashing at Link with the Aether. The hit knocks Link back as he hits a tree and collapses onto the ground. He begins to stir as the dark aura around him begins to fade. Ike approaches, cautiously putting away his blade.) Strange.

Yuna: (Far off.) Agh!

Ike: Yuna! (We see Ike run back towards the battle as Link puts a hand on his head, his gaze following Ike.)

(We cut to Ike running into the same area as before. Yuna is laying on the ground, bleeding, but still alive. Ike runs up to her and leans down.)

Ike: What happened?

Yuna: He got… a good hit on me. (She smiles weakly.) But we scared him off.

Ike: I can still save you. We can get help.

Yuna: No… I don't have… much time left. Just please… stop him. (Yuna dies. Ike gets up as we see Link enter from the background.)

Link: Excuse me. (Ike turns around as a look of anger forms on his face.)

Ike: You…

Link: Where am I? Where is Master Mind?

Ike: It’s your fault she's dead! (Ike charges at Link again, attempting to strike him. Link blocks every swing with his shield as Ike wildly strikes.) I could've stopped him!

Link: I don't know what you're talking about! (Ike stops.)

Ike: If you hadn't attacked me, she would still be alive.

Link: (Seeing the dead Yuna.) I am sorry for your loss, but I still do not know what you are speaking of.

Ike: That aura around you has disappeared. What was it?

Link: I do not know. The last thing I remember is Master Mind. (Pauses.) Where am I now?

Ike: (Gestures back.) Follow me. (Ike begins to leave as Link follows.)

(We cut to a different part of the forest as we suddenly see a Goblinmon (Digimon) holding a club grunt angrily. The camera pans to see the Mii fighting it.)

Mii: I'm getting sick of these monsters. (The Goblinmon jumps forward and attacks the Mii with his club, sending him back.) Ouch! (The Mii gets up, takes out a sword, runs towards the Goblinmon, attacks it, and runs back. The Goblinmon falls backwards onto the ground, defeated. The Mii raises his sword.) Woohoo! (The Mii puts his sword away before beginning to march down the forest path.)

Mii: That battle sure did take a lot out of me. (He stops and takes out a HP banana.) Maybe I should reward myself with a snack. (He giddily rocks side to side while smiling. Multiple thudding sounds, getting closer, are suddenly heard as the Mii's eyes go wide.) What’s that noise? (We suddenly see Rabbid Kong (Super Mario) burst from the treeline and look around. We see his eyes lock onto the HP banana as Rabbid Kong jumps forward, snatches it, and escapes into the opposite treeline.)

Mii: You big monkey! (Ponders a moment.) Rabbit? (He gets angry again.) Come back with my banana! (The Mii starts running towards where Rabbid Kong went before tripping into the treeline.) Yeowch! (We pan to see Nightmare walking down the same path the Mii was on, the opposite way of where he was going. As he passes the Mii, the Mii gets up rubbing his head, his eyes following Nightmare. To himself.) That’s a sweet sword. (He runs back after Rabbid Kong.)

(We cut to a deeper part of the forest. Many trees surround this mostly hidden area, including one very odd-looking tree. The camera pans down to see Zavok standing among the trees.)

Zavok: Where is that wretched Ape at? (The camera pans to see Zazz (Sonic the Hedgehog) and Nabbit (Super Mario).)

Zazz: Maybe he's just monkeying around. (Zazz laughs at his own joke. Zavok just scowls at Zazz.) Aren’t you glad we found each other again? It ain’t the Sinister Six without Zazz!

Zavok: Quiet, Zazz. (Rabbid Kong suddenly bursts through the trees and meets up with the other villains.) Finally, now we can begin the meeting of the new Sinister Six.

Zazz: Uh, but there’s only four of us. How about the Fierce Four! Has a nice ring to it. (As Zavok and Zazz argue, we see the Mii sneak up and hide behind the weird tree from before.)

Zavok: Silence, Zazz! I’ve had enough of your banter.

Mii: Huh?

Zavok: I’ve spotted a town not far from here. Our conquest of this new world will begin there. They’ve already been weakened by an attack from someone else. It’s our time to swoop in and establish dominance. (Zazz and Rabbid Kong nod. Nabbit claps.)

Mii: (Whispering.) That doesn’t sound good. (Suddenly, the weird tree sprouts legs and reveals itself to be a Sudowoodo (Pokemon).)

Sudowoodo: Sudowoodo! (This grabs the attention of the villains as the Sudowoodo walks away, revealing the Mii.)

Zavok: An intruder!

Zazz: Grab him! (The Mii tries to run away, but Rabbid Kong jumps in front of him and beats his chest.)

Mii: Yikes! (The Mii turns around to see Zazz shoulder-charging towards him while laughing. The Mii jumps over Zazz as Rabbid Kong brings his fists down, slamming them onto Zazz.)

Zazz: Yahahaaaa!

Zavok: (Putting out hand and shooting a fireball.) Hah! (The fireball hits the Mii in the legs and knocks him over. Nabbit then comes up and puts his sack over the Mii. Nabbit puts the sack back over his back as we hear muffled sounds coming from inside. Zazz and Rabbid Kong walk back up, with Zazz rubbing the back of his head.)

Zazz: We got him! Uh… what now?

Zavok: (Smiling.) I think we can use him to our advantage.

(We cut to Link and Ike walking into a small town. It looks mostly destroyed, with blood seen on the streets and walls, broken windows and doors torn off their hinges. Paramedics are surrounding bloodied people on the streets. Link looks on in shock.)

Ike: That swordsman attacked this town, slaying anyone who tried to stop him. He called himself Nightmare, a member of the Knights of the Demon. I don’t know who this demon is, or how many knights there are, but it is my duty to stop them.

Link: Your friend. Did she share this duty?

Ike: Yuna found me after I was transported to this new world. We decided to stick together until we could find our loved ones again. She spoke often of one named Tidus. (Ike looks down.) I couldn’t help her, so I’ll fight on for her.

Link: These Knights of the Demon could be tied to Master Mind. Either way, I want to help you get to the bottom of this. We can’t let another tragedy like this strike.

???: Greetings people of the new world! (Link and Ike look up to see Zavok and the rest of the “Fierce Four” standing atop a building. Zavok is speaking.) I am Zavok, soon to be your new leader. If you do not want to face the total destruction of your people, then I would highly suggest giving us all of your resources and accepting us as your leaders. Or else… (Zavok snaps. Nabbit dumps the Mii out of his sack as Zazz holds him up by his leg. Zazz gets in the Mii’s face.)

Zazz: Hahaha!

Zavok: Our little friend here will be turned to ashes. (The Mii attempts to throw punches but isn’t able to land any on Zazz.) Make your choice quickly. (He gestures to the Mii.) For his sake. (A soft whirring sound is suddenly heard.)

Zazz: Does anyone else hear that? (We suddenly see the flying Beetle fly through the air and grab the Mii by the leg Zazz is holding.) Eh?! (Zazz lets go in shock as the Beetle turns around and flies to Link and Ike. The Beetle gently drops the Mii to the ground and returns to Link’s hand as he pockets it. Ike and Link both have their swords at the ready, with Link also having his shield.)

Ike: Surrender now! I’m not going to let this town be victim to another attack. (We see the Mii get out a pair of boxing gloves that he puts on.)

Zavok: Of course this wouldn’t be easy. (Zavok and the others all jump down from the roof and size up the others.) You’re outnumbered and outmatched. You do realize this is suicide. (Our heroes approach the others.)

Ike: Then we will die like heroes.

Mii: D-Die? (He looks worried for a second before shaking it off and looking fierce again.)

Zavok: Then you’ve made your choice. (Pointing.) Get them! (Zazz, Nabbit, and Rabbid Kong rush towards our heroes. Nabbit jumps on the Mii’s head and runs away with the Mii right behind as Rabbid Kong punches Link away.)

Link: Ah! (We see Zazz jump towards Ike and slash twice with his claws.)

Zazz: Yah! Hah! (Ike dodges both attacks before slashing Zazz’s chest with the Aether.)

Ike: You’ll get no sympathy from me. (Ike is suddenly blasted back by a fireball. We see Zavok walk up to Zazz and pick him up by his neck and set him back up.)

Zavok: You’ve made a mistake. (We cut to Link fighting Rabbid Kong. Rabbid Kong rapidly throws three punches with the third one knocking Link into the air. He quickly pulls out his Hookshot and grapples it onto a nearby chimney. He lands on the roof and quickly pulls out a bow and shoots fire arrows at Rabbid Kong. A few stick themselves into Rabbid Kong’s arm. Rabbid Kong roars in pain as he swipes the arrows off.)

(We cut to the Mii chasing Nabbit down through the streets with Nabbit occasionally looking back towards his pursuer.)

Mii: Get back here! (The Mii puts his boxing gloves away and takes out a tennis racket and ball. He tosses the ball in the air and hits it with the racket. It hits Nabbit square in the back of the head as he spins around and faceplants on the concrete.) Bullseye!

(We cut back to Ike fighting Zazz and Zavok. Zazz plows into Ike with his shoulder and knocks him back as Zavok jumps behind Ike and grabs him by the cape.)

Zavok: Just a weak man! (He slams Ike onto the ground by his cape. We see his POV as Zavok and Zazz stand over him. Zazz laughs.)

Zazz: Even easier than I thou- (A baseball suddenly flies in and hits Zazz in the face knocking him over.) Ah!

(We cut back to Link on the roof as Rabbid Kong throws different cars at him. Link continues to jump out of the way and hide behind the chimney. He then comes out with the Gust Bellows.)

Link: Hyah! (Air erupts from the Gust Bellows and blows on Rabbid Kong’s face. It doesn’t push him back at all. Instead, Rabbid Kong closes its eyes and roars at Link. Link pulls out a bomb.) Let’s see if you're anything like Dodongos. (Link throws the bomb into Rabbid Kong’s mouth. It lands as Rabbid Kong stops roaring and swallows. A quiet explosion is heard as Rabbid Kong gets woozy and falls onto its back, smoke bellows out of its mouth.)

(We cut to the Mii punching Zazz repeatedly in the face with his boxing gloves while on the ground. Zavok runs up and slashes the Mii away.)

Mii: Woah!

Zavok: This isn’t over! (Ike runs in and slashes Zavok across the back. He’s knocked away.) Urgh… (He looks up to see all three heroes surrounding him.)

Ike: Now you’re outnumbered.

Zavok: Yes, but not unmatched. (Zavok begins to grow as he becomes a giant. The shadow looms over our heroes. Zavok roars and shoots fireballs out of his mouth. Our heroes brace themselves as the fireballs fall around them. Zavok swipes his claws as Link and Ike duck out of the way. The Mii is hit away. As he gets up, the Mii throws a bowling ball towards Zavok. Zavok picks it up.) A bowling ball? Really? (Zavok throws it back at Link and Ike as it hits Ike in the chest, knocking him down.)

Ike: Urgh! (Zavok starts shooting a laser at our heroes as it cuts across the area. Link takes out the Mirror Shield and holds it up as the laser gets closer. As it hits the Mirror Shield, it bounces back and hits Zavok.)

Zavok: Agh! (He stumbles, weakened.) No… I can’t lose…(We hear the sound of rapid footsteps as we see Ike jump up towards Zavok’s chest.)

Ike: Great Aether! (Ike begins rapidly slashing at Zavok’s chest with the Aether as Zavok groans in pain. Ike then drops to the ground as Zavok shrinks back down. He lays flat on the ground as our heroes surround him.) Now, where is Nightmare?

Zavok: I have… no idea… what you’re talking about.

Ike: The swordsman who attacked this town. With the monstrous arm and his Hellish sword. (The Mii suddenly looks up.)

Mii: The swordsman! I saw him!

Link: Where?

Mii: On a path near here! Follow me! (The Mii and Ike start leaving.)

Link: What about these fiends? (They stop.)

Mii: (Taking out Nabbit's sack.) This ought do it. (He leans over to Zavok.)

Zavok: How dare you even suggest that I-! (We cut away to the sound of a sack falling over Zavok. We cut back to see Nabbit's sack tied at the top while it shakes around. Muffled voices are heard inside. A cardboard sign that says "Bad Guys" is set in front of it.)

Mii: That’ll hold 'em.

Ike: The authorities will decide their fate. Now, quickly, we cannot lose Nightmare. (Link nods as our three heroes run out of town.)

End of Episode

Chapter 11: Helghan Forever

(The episode begins in the city at night. Street lights shine down on the streets as people walk through the city. We go down to the streets as we see Murphy Pendleton (Silent Hill) walk past a trash can and throw a soda can he’s holding into it. The can misses, but Murphy keeps walking. We cut to a view behind Murphy’s head as the can hits him in the back of the head.)

Murphy: Ow! (Murphy turns around to see an Overwatch Soldier (Half-Life) holding a Stun Baton.)

Overwatch Soldier: Pick up that can.

Murphy: Whatever. (Murphy begins walking away as a second Overwatch Soldier steps in front of him, holding another Stun Baton.)

Overwatch Soldier #2: Pick up that can.

Murphy: What the hell are you? (The first Overwatch Soldier comes up behind Murphy and hits him with a Stun Baton.) Agh! (The two soldiers continue to beat Murphy as he falls over onto the ground. We cut to a view on the rooftops as a figure watches this happen.)

???: Here we go. (The soldiers continue to beat Murphy as the blade of a katana suddenly goes through the chest of the second soldier. The camera pans up to see Raiden holding his katana through the soldier’s chest.)

Overwatch Soldier #2: Ow… (Raiden pulls his katana out as the soldier falls to the ground. The other soldier looks at him and attempts to hit him with the Stun Baton. Raiden blocks it with his katana and knocks the Stun Baton out of the soldier's hand. Raiden then jumps in the air and kicks the soldier back before slicing through the soldier’s torso, tearing him in half. The soldier’s body parts hit the floor as Raiden inspects them.)

Raiden: You’re not who I’m looking for. (Raiden gets up and begins to leave. Murphy gets up behind him.)

Murphy: Hey, thanks for the help.

Raiden: (Stops for a moment.) I’m not finished yet. (Raiden begins leaving again as the camera pans up. A figure is watching Raiden from the rooftops, flowing hair behind them. We cut to Raiden landing on another building and surveying the area. He seems to be looking for something specific.) Where are you?

???: Looking for something? (Raiden turns around to see Zero standing behind him.) I’ve never seen a Maverick quite like you.

Raiden: (Readying his katana.) Who are you?

Zero: I’ve been following you. I saw you fight down on the streets. I’m not sure exactly what you are. (Equips his Z-Saber.) I do know you’re dangerous, and until I know you’re on my side, I can’t trust you.

Raiden: I can’t have anyone messing up my mission. (Raiden lunges towards Zero as he slashes wildly with his katana. Zero parries the blows with his own Z-Saber. Both heroes hold their blades firmly against the other as they look each other in the eyes.) This blade is a tool of justice.

Zero: Justice is often an excuse for petty revenge. (The two fighters jump back as Zero’s hand transforms into the Z-Buster. He starts shooting at Raiden. Raiden is hit twice before jumping over the remaining shots and slashing Zero away with his katana. Zero rolls backwards and gets back onto his feet. He charges back towards Raiden and slashes his leg with the Z-Saber. Raiden bends down as Zero uppercuts him. Raiden lands on his back.)

Raiden: (Getting back up.) Now you’re making me mad. (Raiden runs up to Zero and slashes at his legs, forcing Zero to fall over. Before he hits the ground, Raiden knees him in the face and slashes at him again, knocking him away as he hits the floor. We then see Raiden jump above Zero, preparing to skewer his chest. Zero rolls away at the last moment as the katana hits the ground. Zero gets up and knocks Raiden onto the ground with his Z-Saber.) Ugh… (Zero puts the Z-Saber up to Raiden’s neck.)

Zero: Now, who are you?

Raiden: I’m not the one you should be fighting. The Helghan are coming.

Zero: (Lowering his Z-Saber.) Helghan? (Raiden takes the opportunity to kick Zero’s hand back. He then flips over Zero and kicks him to the ground. Raiden puts his katana to Zero’s neck.)

Raiden: I don’t have time for distractions like you. (Raiden begins to leave.)

Zero: Wait! (Raiden stops.)

Raiden: What?

Zero: Who are the Helghan?

Raiden: They arrived here just a few days ago. (We go into a flashback. We see Raiden slashing at a large group of Helghan soldiers, killing any that approach him.) They’re here to take over this world. They’re led by someone named Radec. (The Raiden in the flashback finishes killing the soldiers. He looks down at the carnage.) It’s my duty to find Radec and stop the Helghan. (The flashback stops.) I don’t know how much time I have. They may already have a plan in motion.

Zero: Then let me help you.

Raiden: Why should I?

Zero: I stood toe-to-toe with you when we fought. I’m part of an elite group of soldiers who work towards preventing the same thing you’re trying to stop. (He holds out his hand.) Call me Zero.

Raiden: (Shakes Zero’s hand.) Raiden. (The camera zooms in on the handshake as we fade into the interior of the Helghan Cruiser. We see Radec at the control panel as Master Mind stands behind him.)

Master Mind: Are your troops ready, Colonel?

Radec: They are completely ready for deployment. I await your clearance.

Master Mind: You may begin the invasion. We will take this city, and soon this world, as our own.

Radec: Excellent. (Radec presses a button on the console in front of him. We cut to the outside of the Helghan Cruiser, which is hovering far above the city below. We cut down to the streets below as Helghan Troop Carriers move throughout the city. Citizens run screaming out of the way as a group of three trample over cars. They stop as Helghan soldiers jump out of them, already equipped with weapons. We cut to a different area of the city as two Hover Tanks go through the city while shooting at buildings. Screaming is heard everywhere.)

(We cut to the inside of a museum. The exhibit in particular seems to be one on World War II. In the museum, we see Luke (Professor Layton) and Elise (Sonic the Hedgehog) looking at the many exhibits. The camera then focuses on a man looking at a part of the exhibit showing cots and weaponry from World War II. The man is revealed to be B.J. Blazkowicz, who seems to be lost in thought while looking at the exhibit. We see the curator of the museum, a short elderly man, come up behind him.)

Curator: You’ve been here for quite some time. (B.J. looks over at him.) You’re a fan of history I presume?

B.J.: You could say that. (He looks back at the exhibit.) It’s just… surreal I suppose. Reading about how the war was won. It makes me smile.

Curator: You are not from this world. Forgive me for being so blunt about it, you all have that certain look to you. I am curious, did you have your own version of the World Wars?

B.J.: Yes, actually. Didn’t end quite the same as it did here though. I fought in the second World War. War is a disease. Passed through blood, spilled by warriors. I wish I was as lucky as you.

Curator: I’m sorry to hear about that. History is a cruel mistress.

B.J.: Sure is. (He turns to the curator.) I’m William, by the way. William Blazkowicz.

Curator: Well, Mr. Blazkowicz, perhaps you will be able to visit the museum again some time, and we can talk more on history.

B.J.: I might take you up on that offer. (A commotion is suddenly heard coming from the back of the museum. Screaming is heard.) What’s that? (A group of Helghan soldiers suddenly burst into the museum holding guns. They start shooting at civilians in the museum.)

Helghan Soldier: All will perish! (They start shooting at B.J. and the curator as B.J. pushes him out of the way. They hide behind a corner leading to another part of the museum.)

Curator: What is happening? Who are they? (B.J. looks over at the exhibit showing different weapons. He suddenly bolts towards them as the curator looks on, horrified. Whispering.) Mr. Blazkowicz! (B.J. runs up to the weapons and grabs a MG-46 along with some ammo being showcased. The soldiers shoot at him as he twists around and dives behind another exhibit. He loads his gun and begins shooting at the soldiers. Taking out three of the five that are in the museum.)

Helghan Soldier: Scum! (The Helghan soldiers all hide behind different cover. They continue to shoot at B.J.. The fire fight continues as B.J. shoots a soldier in the head as he comes out of cover. The last soldier slowly advances on B.J. before lunging at him with a knife. B.J. blocks the soldier’s arm with his own as the soldier continues to swing at him. The soldier eventually kicks B.J. over as he stands above him.) Say goodbye! (A gunshot suddenly fires as a hole appears in the soldier’s chest. He falls over as B.J. sees the curator holding a pistol from the exhibit. He’s breathing heavily.)

Curator: Mr. Blazkowicz, are you alright?

B.J.: Yeah, I’m alright.

Curator: There’s more of them outside. It’s an invasion.

B.J.: I can’t let that happen. Your world is going to continue to be free. (B.J. readies his gun.) And I’m going to defend it.

Curator: You should probably take this then. (The Curator gives B.J. the pistol. B.J. nods and then runs out of the museum.)

(We cut to the city as Hover Tanks and soldiers continue to rampage through the city. Two police cars drive up as two officers get out of each vehicle. They begin shooting at the soldiers running through the city.)

Officer: (Talking into his receiver.) We need backup! We need the army! (We see a Hover Tank shoot at one of the police cars as it explodes. The officers jump for cover. We cut to the rooftops as Raiden and Zero watch the carnage below.)

Raiden: They’ve begun their invasion.

Zero: That’s them?

Raiden: The Helghan. This is their biggest attack yet.

Zero: They’re going all out.

Raiden: Which might mean this’ll be their last attack if we play our cards right. (Unsheathing his katana.) Let’s put an end to this.

Zero: (Equipping his Z-Saber.) I’ll be right behind you. (They both jump down from the roof. Raiden lands on a Troop Carrier and plunges his blade into it, short-circuiting it. A soldier turns to shoot Raiden as Zero lands behind the soldier and slashes through the soldier’s chest, killing him. Raiden jumps from the Troop Carrier and lands on a soldier. Another soldier turns to shoot him as Raiden slices his hands off.)

Helghan Soldier: Agh! (Raiden slices vertically through the soldier’s body before turning to another soldier and stabbing him through the throat.)

Raiden: Lord have mercy. (We see a soldier take aim behind Raiden as Zero runs up to him and slices through the soldier.)

(We cut to B.J. running through the city shooting at soldiers with his machine gun. He turns to see a Hover Tank shooting at buildings in the city. B.J. runs towards it and jumps onto the tank. He opens the hatch leading into it and shoots at the soldier inside with his pistol. He then jumps into the tank and fiddles with the control.)

B.J.: Let’s see if I can pilot this thing. (The head of the tank turns a bit as B.J. tries to pilot it. We see the tank shoot at a group of soldiers as well as a Troop Carrier.) Now we have some firepower.

(We cut back to Raiden and Zero as they slice through more soldiers. Raiden pierces his katana into one’s chest as Zero slices the head off.)

Zero: How many of them are left?

???: Enough to still wipe out this city. (Raiden and Zero look towards the source of the voice as they find Radec on a Jet Bike not far in front of them.)

Raiden: You must be Radec.

Radec: Indeed, but I am not familiar with you.

Zero: We’re the ones who are gonna put a stop to your tyranny.

Radec: Tyranny? No, no. We are simply giving you a new leader. The Master Mind Empire will rule this world. No longer will “heroes” like you poison this world. It is time for a new order. (A group of three Hover Tanks are seen behind Raiden and Zero as they turn around. Raiden looks furiously at them as Zero stands by in shock.) A shame you won’t be around to see it, scum. (The sound of a tank shooting is heard as one of the three tanks explodes. The two others quickly follow as a fourth Hover Tank plows through them. B.J. jumps out of the Hover Tank and runs towards the other heroes.)

Zero: Uh… thanks?

B.J.: Agent Blazkowicz. I’m here to help.

Radec: I’m shocked we hadn’t killed all of you yet. Well, (Radec pulls out a small device and pushes a button on it. A Spider Tank and two Troop Carriers fall from the sky behind Radec. Radec gets on top of the Spider Tank.) Let’s change that.

Raiden: A Metal Gear…?

B.J.: Concentrate fire on the tank. (To Zero.) Can you take care of the other soldiers?

Zero: Leave it to me. (Zero and Raiden fan out as B.J. takes fire on the Spider Tank.)

Radec: Pathetic display of power. (The Spider Tank shoots a rocket at B.J.. B.J. tries to run away from it. He makes it a few feet before the rocket explodes and blasts him away. We cut to Zero blasting away soldiers with his Z-Buster. He is then suddenly shot twice by more soldiers behind him.)

Helghan Soldier: Lock on target. (They continue firing as more come in. We then see Raiden begin running quickly towards them.)

Raiden: I am lightning… (Raiden enters Blade Mode as everything slows down around him. He takes several slashes at the first soldier before kicking off of him and stabbing another soldier in the chest. Electricity suddenly surrounds Raiden’s katana as he slices into another soldier. We see the last soldier slowly turn towards Raiden as he slashes across the soldier’s chest. Raiden then reaches inside the soldier’s chest and takes out his heart. Time goes back to normal.) The rain transformed.

(We cut back to B.J. shooting at the Spider Tank. It’s doing damage, but not a lot. We then see Zero jump onto the tank and stab his Z-Saber into it.)

Zero: Take this! (The Spider Tank shakes Zero off before continuing to shoot at our heroes. Zero lands next to B.J. as more soldiers surround them. B.J. shoots at the soldiers as Zero gets up. We then cut to Raiden as he slashes his katana at one of the legs of the Spider Tank.)

Raiden: Yah! (The leg then kicks Raiden away as he hits a building. The Spider Tank begins shooting wildly at our heroes as Zero knocks B.J. out of the way of it. A few stray bullets hit Zero from behind. Raiden jumps in and helps them both up.)

B.J.: (To Zero.) Are you okay?

Zero: Yeah, still going strong.

Raiden: We have to find a way to stop this Metal Gear.

Zero: I was able to stab into it, but that hardly did anything.

Raiden: You might’ve given me a way to stop this thing. (Readies his blade.) Give me cover. I’m going up there.

B.J.: (Readying gun.) You got it. (B.J. and Zero begin shooting around them as Raiden charges. The Spider Tank shoots at Raiden as he jumps onto the side of the building before jumping onto the Spider Tank. Raiden’s body electrifies as he plunges his hand into the hole Zero made. The Spider Tank begins short circuiting.)

Radec: What’s happening?

Raiden: I’m ending this now. (We see B.J. and Zero shooting at the last of the soldiers as behind them, a surge of electricity covers the Spider Tank as it falls to the ground.)

Zero: He did it! (Zero and B.J. run towards the Spider Tank. They arrive beside Raiden but can’t find Radec.)

B.J.: Where is he now? (Radec suddenly appears behind B.J., coming out of invisibility. He kicks B.J. to the ground and holds up a grenade.)

Radec: If I am dying, I will not die alone. Goodby- (Radec’s hand holding the grenade is suddenly sliced off by Raiden.) Agh!

Raiden: Nice try. (Radec grabs at where his hand used to be.) Now, we want some answers.

Radec: The Helghan Empire and the Master Mind Empire will not fall to you! (Radec pulls out a handgun and shoots the grenade which landed next to the Spider Tank. The grenade and Spider Tank both explode as our heroes are blown back. They get back up but can’t find Radec.)

Zero: He’s gone again. (They pause.) But the rest of the soldiers, I think that’s the last of them.

B.J.: Yeah, but what’s the Master Mind Empire?

Raiden: I don’t think our job is done yet. War continues here. I’ve seen it with my own eyes. (Raiden begins waking off. He turns back to Zero and B.J..) Are you coming or what? (Zero smiles and nods as he and B.J. walk over to join Raiden.)

(We cut to Radec limping through the streets with one hand missing. He looks badly hurt. We hear a voice behind him.)

???: You have failed me, Colonel. (Radec turns to see Master Mind.) You and your army have fallen to a group of three do-gooders.

Radec: The battle is not yet lost. I am still here. I can help you rule this world.

Master Mind: Radec, it was never about ruling this world. It’s about destroying it.

Radec: Destroy? I don’t understand.

Master Mind: Destroy this whole world. This whole universe. Everything we’ve done has been in an effort to stop those heroes from saving this world.

Radec: And then what? There would be nothing to rule.

Master Mind: That’s where you’re wrong. After this world is destroyed, I will take over your world. That’s why you’re all here. To kill you all so nothing’s in my way. (Master Mind raises his arm.) And since you are no use to me anymore…

Radec: Helghan forever. (Lightning erupts from Master Mind’s hand as electricity takes over Radec’s body. He convulses as he drops to the ground and dies. We see the light in Radec’s eyes fade.)

Master Mind: A sad death for the "high and mighty" colonel. Now, (A portal opens behind him.) back to business. (Master Mind walks through as the portal disappears. The camera pans to Radec's lifeless body.)

End of Episode

Chapter 12: Supersonic Racing

(The episode begins looking at a busy city street with a manhole cover in the center. A lot of honking is heard as the camera pans down and the scene changes to the sewer. We see water running underneath as the camera pans to see a hovercraft on a portion of the sewers above the water. We see a figure working under the hood of the hovercraft.)

???: Almost finished. Then, I’ll be fit to take to the streets once more. (The figure closes the hood and reveals themselves to be Nitros Oxide. He turns around and fiddles with a busted-up radio next to him until he finds music.) Once my hovercraft is in top shape again, I will finally be able to leave this miserable planet and go home to Gasmoxia! (The radio music stops as it goes to a commercial break.)

Radio: And just a reminder to everyone out there, this afternoon we will be holding the Anything Goes Race Across the Coast. Register today and bring any allowed vehicle to race across the coast of the city.

Oxide: Huh? (He holds up the radio.)

Radio: We already have quite a few people registering, so come on down. (Oxide smiles.)

Oxide: Well, this changes a few things. (Oxide jumps into the hovercraft.) Now that I know this planet is home to a few racers, I can take this opportunity to become the greatest racer this world has ever seen and rule it! Hahahaha! (Oxide’s hovercraft hovers to the manhole as he opens it slightly to look through.) Now, first things first, where is this race being held? (Suddenly, a blue blur passes over the manhole cover, smashing it onto Oxide’s head. His head pops back up again, woozy.) Ugh…

(We cut to a police break room. A donut box is on one of the tables as a gloved hand reaches into it and grabs a donut. Two officers burst into the room.)

Officer: Falcon, we have an issue. (The camera pans over to reveal Captain Falcon holding a donut up to his mouth.)

Falcon: What’s the situation? (He puts the donut down and approaches the officer.)

Officer: Something real fast has been terrorizing the downtown area. We can’t tell what it is, but it’s causing collisions and destroying property.

Falcon: Nothing can outspeed the Blue Falcon. I’ll take care of this. (Falcon races out of the room. We cut to the outside as we see the Blue Falcon powering up before racing off into the streets.)

(We cut again to the streets as a blue blur speeds through. Cars screech to a halt to avoid hitting it. We zoom into the blur to reveal that it’s Sonic with a dark aura surrounding him. He slides onto the sidewalk and kicks a trashcan over, scattering it everywhere and terrorizing pedestrians. He then uses a homing attack on a car and cracks the windshield.)

Sonic: Yah! (He continues running through the streets. The Blue Falcon drives in behind Sonic. It opens up to reveal Falcon inside.)

Falcon: Stop!

Sonic: (Looks back.) Catch me if you can! (He speeds up as the Blue Falcon closes again. It also speeds up. We see a top-down view of the chase through the streets as the Blue Falcon swerves to avoid hitting cars. Sonic slides on the ground to quickly turn onto another street. The Blue Falcon drifts in order to follow.) You’re too slow! (Both Sonic and the Blue Falcon begin to speed up. We cut into the cockpit of the Blue Falcon.)

Falcon: Looks like I’ll have to take it up a notch. (Falcon pushes a button in the Blue Falcon as the top opens and he’s launched out. We see him fly high in the air and soar straight towards Sonic. He delivers a kick into Sonic’s back as he lands, knocking Sonic onto the ground. Sonic gets up as the Blue Falcon stops behind Falcon.)

Sonic: You’re messing with the wrong hedgehog.

Falcon: Show me your moves. (Sonic runs up and delivers three homing attacks at Falcon who guards himself with his arms in an X formation. Sonic then spindashes behind Falcon and delivers a homing attack into his back. Falcon is knocked forwards but is able to land crouched on his feet. Falcon runs forward to punch Sonic, who dodges out of the way. He then does a spin-kick which knocks Sonic away. Falcon then does a flying kick towards Sonic as fire surrounds his leg.) Falcon Kick! (Sonic is kicked in the chest as he’s knocked back into a wall and the dark aura flickers around him.)

Sonic: Urgh… (Falcon slowly walks up and grabs Sonic by the neck and holds him up. The dark aura dissipates from Sonic.) Master… Mind…

Falcon: What?

Sonic: Where… is he?

(We cut to the beachside as we see a large number of cars lined up at a starting line. A large number of people are seen around the area and sitting in bleachers, ready for the race to start. We cut to a sign-up table with a woman sitting at it. We see a shadow cover the woman as she looks up from the table.)

Woman: How may I help you? (The camera turns to see the source of the shadow, Duke Nukem. He’s smoking a large cigar, but takes it out to speak.)

Duke: Yeah, I’m here to enter the race.

Woman: That’s a twenty dollar entry fee, sir. (Duke pulls out a crumpled twenty from his pocket and places it on the table.) Okay… and your vehicle, sir? (Duke gestures behind him towards the Mighty Foot in the background.) I’m not sure if that… monster truck… will work, sir.

Duke: I think it’ll work just fine.

Woman: Oh… uh… okay. And your name?

Duke: (Smiling.) I’m Duke Nukem. (He walks off.)

Woman: Duke Nukem?

(We cut to a newsroom with the beach acting as a background for it. Chick Gizzard Lips (Crash Bandicoot) and Stew (Crash Bandicoot) are sat in the reporter chairs.)

Chick: Hello, racing fans. My name is Chick Gizzard Lips.

Stew: And I’m Stew!

Chick: We’re here to give you coverage for today’s Anything Goes Race Across the Coast! Let’s go to our man on the field, Mr. Zero, to learn more information. (We cut to the beach as we see Mr. Zero (F-Zero) holding a microphone with cars lining up behind him.)

Mr. Zero: Thanks, Chick. I’m here today at East Hampton, New York to give you the inside scoop on today’s race. All of the funds raised from today’s event, including the payment of snacks and the auction afterwards, will go to funding people like me who were taken from our world. Already, many establishments in the city, such as restaurants and the local police, have been hiring in order to give us a living here. Too many are still suffering from homelessness though. (We cut back to Chick and Stew.)

Chick: That’s great, Mr. Zero.

Stew: I could certainly use the extra cash. (They laugh. Feedback is suddenly heard in the recording studio.)

Chick: Looks like we’re getting some feedback from you, Mr. Zero.

Mr. Zero: That’s not me, Chick. (A voice is suddenly heard in the feedback.)

???: Greetings, those of the new world! (We cut back to Mr. Zero as he looks up and gasps. We then cut to Duke Nukem getting out of the Mighty Foot as he looks up to the sky.)

Duke: D*mn. (We cut to see Oxide flying in his Hovercraft with a microphone in his hands, a grin on his face.)

Oxide: My name is Nitros Oxide, the greatest racer in all the land! I have come looking for a challenge to test my racing skills. It’s a game I call Survival of the Fastest. I have come to this puny race of yours to test your might! I will compete in this race, and if any of you are able to beat me, I will forfeit. But if I win, this miserable planet will be mine, and I shall take you as my slaves! (He laughs as we cut back to Falcon and Sonic talking at the Blue Falcon.)

Falcon: So this Master Mind took us from our homes and brainwashed you and your friends?

Sonic: Yeah, and if we don’t stop him soon, who knows what he’ll do.

Falcon: Well, you can stick with me until we find these friends of yours. I’m not gonna let anyone take me from my home without a fight.

Sonic: Thanks, officer.

Falcon: Captain, actually. Captain Falcon. I’m really a bounty hunter, but I had to make money somehow while I’m here. (He jumps into the Blue Falcon and turns it on. The radio comes on as Chick begins talking.)

Chick: It seems this charity race has taken an unexpected turn. Participants today must now race against the villainous Nitros Oxide for the fate of the entire planet. (Sonic and Falcon gasp.)

Stew: Yessir, I urge all able-bodied racers to make their way to the shore immediately for the good of the planet.

Falcon: Sounds like trouble. (To Sonic.) You better hop in, we need to get there fa- (He’s cut off as Sonic begins running through the city towards the coast.) Or you can run off again… (The Blue Falcon shuts as he speeds off behind Sonic.)

(We cut to the beach as a number of participants are lined up at a starting line. We see Duke sneer out his window as the camera pans out to reveal Oxide.)

Oxide: Hehehe… (We see a Lakitu (Super Mario) float down in front of the cars with a large stoplight attached to a fishing rod. The Lakitu counts down to one from three on his fingers as the lights change to green on the stoplight. Before the Lakitu gets to one, Oxide blasts forward while laughing. When the Lakitu finishes the countdown, all of the cars take off, with Oxide ahead of the pack.)

Mr. Zero: And they’re off! It seems that this “Oxide” character has taken an early lead, but others may quickly catch up.

Oxide: I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve… (Oxide pulls a beaker out of his hovercraft and chucks it behind him. We see CJ (Grand Theft Auto) and Big Smoke (Grand Theft Auto) on a motorcycle as the beaker hits CJ in the chest.)

CJ: Ah! D*mn! (CJ and Big Smoke are flung onto a car behind them as several cars stop.)

Big Smoke: Godd*mnit, CJ! (We cut to Duke.)

Duke: D*mn, that alien freak is cheating. Which means I’m not gonna hold anything back. (We see the Mighty Foot speed up. Meanwhile, Oxide pulls a TNT crate out of his hovercraft and tosses it behind him.)

Oxide: Whoopsies. (We cut to Tag (ModNation Racers) as the TNT crate lands on his car. He swerves around trying to get it off as the crate counts down from three.)

Tag: No no no no! (The crate reaches zero as it explodes, launching Tag out of his car. The car spins around causing other cars to stop. The Mach Rider (Mach Rider) rams into it on his motorcycle and is flung off. We see Duke Nukem drive up beside Oxide.)

Duke: Hey, ugly! (Oxide looks over at Duke.) I’m sick of you alien b*stards trying to take over Earth. I’m about to kick your *ss at racing. (Duke pulls out a Freeze Ray and begins shooting at Oxide. Oxide swerves as the ice hits the sand around Oxide. We cut to Reiko Nagase (Ridge Racer) in her car as it slips on the ice. Her car slams into multiple others, knocking out every other contestant for the race except Duke and Oxide.) D*mn, didn’t think that through.

Oxide: This planet will be mine!

Mr. Zero: This race is looking dim as we now only have one racer to face off against Nitros Oxide. (We cut to a bird’s eye view of the race as two blue blurs make their way to Oxide and Duke.) What’s this? Two new competitors are making their way to the race fast! It’s not over yet, folks. (We cut back to Oxide and Duke as Sonic runs up right next to Oxide.)

Oxide: And who are you supposed to be?

Sonic: Sonic’s the name. Speed’s my game.

Oxide: Well, Sonic, speed just so happens to be my game too. (Oxide pulls out a bomb.) That and cheating! (Oxide throws the bomb at Sonic who jumps over it and leaps over Oxide onto the Mighty Foot.)

Duke: Hey, be careful up there. (The Blue Falcon pulls up behind Oxide as the top pulls up and reveals Falcon inside.)

Oxide: I thought I’d gotten rid of all of you.

Falcon: No one is going to take over this planet!

Oxide: I’m getting sick of this. (Oxide pulls out more beakers and begins throwing them behind him at Falcon. The Blue Falcon is able to dodge a few, but a couple hit the front and cause the Blue Falcon to spin around wildly.)

Falcon: Woah! (Duke talks to Sonic on the roof of his car.)

Duke: Hey, blue thing, got anything you could spare to throw?

Sonic: (Pulls out rings.) Just some rings.

Duke: Perfect. Start chucking them at that alien freak. (Sonic shrugs and begins throwing rings at Oxide. As he does, Duke shoots them with his Expander. The rings grow large and hit Oxide in the head.)

Oxide: Ow! Stop that! (Sonic then jumps off the Mighty Foot and does a homing attack on the hovercraft. It does some damage, but doesn’t slow it down.) Take this! (Oxide throws a beaker at Sonic’s feet. It trips him as he falls over in the sand.)

Sonic: Woah!

Mr. Zero: Our racers are coming up on the finish line. This is gonna be a close one. (We cut to Duke and Oxide.)

Duke: Finish line is dead ahead. Looks like this is where I leave you.

Oxide: Oh, contraire. This is where you eat my dust. (Oxide pulls out a nitro crate and throws it onto the hood of the Mighty Foot. It explodes and sends the Mighty Foot spinning. It eventually stops as smoke pours out of the hood.)

Duke: D*mn. I’ll rip your head off and sh*t down your neck! (He looks over to see the Blue Falcon and Sonic trying to catch up to Oxide.) Huh? (We cut to Falcon and Sonic.)

Sonic: We’re never gonna make it! (He suddenly gets an idea. Sonic moves up the back of the Blue Falcon and begins pushing it. Flames shoot around Sonic as he grunts while moving the Blue Falcon. We cut to Oxide laughing.)

Oxide: This world is mine! (He then looks over to see the Blue Falcon soar past him with Sonic pushing it.) What? No! (We see the Blue Falcon speed past the finish line.)

Mr. Zero: And there it is! We have a winner! And this world remains safe from the alien intruder! (The Blue Falcon stops as Falcon gets out of it. He joins Sonic as Oxide’s hovercraft slowly comes to a stop.)

Oxide: I was so close… (Oxide turns around as he’s met with the Mighty Foot. Duke jumps out of it, a pistol in each hand.)

Duke: You’re not getting away that easy, you mucus-covered maggot.

Oxide: Uh oh… (Oxide turns around again to find Sonic and Falcon behind him. Oxide is sweating.) Can we talk this out? (Sonic starts forward, but Falcon puts an arm in front of him.)

Falcon: Leave this to me. (Falcon approaches Oxide. Fire surrounds his fist as he winds up for a punch.) Falcon Punch! (A flaming falcon surrounds Falcon’s arm as he punches Oxide. We see Oxide fly off into the air as the hovercraft explodes. We see Oxide land on the beach.)

Oxide: Mommy? (He falls over, unconscious.)

Duke: (To Falcon.) I like your style, man.

Sonic: We still need to find Master Mind. Nobody here is safe until we defeat him.

Duke: If you’re looking to bust some heads, you should take me along. I’ve been looking for a way home.

Falcon: (To Sonic.) Do you know where we might find this guy?

Sonic: I can take you to where our last battle was. Uh… if I can remember where it was.

Falcon: We’ll follow your lead.

Duke: Looks like Duke Nukem is on another adventure to save the world. (He lights up a cigar and puts it in his mouth.) Hell yeah. (We see our three heroes walking towards the Blue Falcon as the screen fades to black.)

End of Episode

Chapter 13: Dead Space

(The episode begins in the deep reaches of space. The camera focuses on a Covenant space station with multiple ships flying inside. We cut inside to see multiple Elites, Grunts, and Jackals walking around inside. We see a group of them working on some unknown object near the landing bay as more ships fly in. We see one ship land as an Elite jumps out of it. He reaches back into the ship and pulls out Abe by the neck and throws him on the ground.)

Abe: P-P-P-P-Please don’t hurt me.

Elite #1: Silence! (He points an assault rifle at Abe as he slowly gets up. The Elite grabs Abe’s arm and begins escorting him through the space station. Another Elite stops in front of the first Elite and Abe.)

Elite #2: Halt. What is this unknown species.

Elite #1: He says he’s something called a Mudokon. He says his name is "Abe". I found him on the moon belonging to the green and blue planet we invaded. There’s more than him, but he refuses to say where they are. (He looks down at Abe to see him shaking in fear.)

Elite #2: Take him to the cells. We’ll get him to talk. (The first Elite grabs Abe again and starts walking him further through the space station. The second Elite goes towards where the construction is. He starts talking to a Grunt about it.) How’s the construction of the new Marker coming along?

Grunt: Excellent. (We cut to a panning shot of the new Marker.) Since finding the black Marker, we have felt compelled to recreate it and its special properties. (We cut to the Elite and Grunt.)

Elite #2: It looks about finished. (We cut back to Abe as he’s thrown by the Elite into a cell and the Elite presses on a keypad to close it with bars.)

Elite #1: We’ll get you to talk eventually, Mudokon.

Abe: I d-d-don’t want to tell you where my friends are. (We cut back to the Covenant members around the finished Marker.)

Grunt: It should be working. (We cut to what appears to be a morgue in the space station as multiple dead Covenant bodies are seen on tables around the room. We see a seemingly dead Elite sit up on one of the tables and look at a different Elite in the room with his back turned. We cut back to the Marker as a scream is heard.)

Elite #2: What was that? (All is silent for a minute as the occasional thud is heard coming from further in the space station. Suddenly, a group of Necromorphs (Dead Space) erupt from a door into the main hangar area. The Necromorphs themselves look like zombified Covenant members.) Fire! (The Covenant members all start shooting at the Necromorphs as they lurch forward, attacking them. We cut back to Abe in his cell as gunfire and screams can be heard from far off.)

Abe: What is that noise? (The Elite watching Abe opens the door leading out of the prison area.)

Elite #1: (Suddenly terrified.) Ah! (We see the arms of a Necromorph plunge into the Elite’s body as he falls to the ground, blood gushing out of him. The camera turns to see Abe cowering in the corner of his cell as the Necromorph tears into the Elite. We cut to a group of Elites and Jackals in a control room of sorts. The Elites shoot out the door to the control room as the Jackals type on the control panel.)

Jackal: Sending coordinates to Covenant Space Station! Send help immediately! (We cut to a POV of a camera recording the Jackal.) Send help immediatel- (The arm of a Necromorph plunges through the Jackal’s chest. The video cuts off.)

(We cut to the surface of the moon. The American flag is seen in view with an Octoomba (Super Mario) hopping up and down next to it as a Mudokon (Oddworld) runs past it. The camera shifts to see a small group of Mudokons crowded around something. We cut to a view of the Mudokons up close as one of them urges the others to back up. We cut to see what the Mudokons are looking at, which is revealed to be Emmett Graves, wearing a pair of goggles and a breathing mask. He’s unconscious, but slowly gains back consciousness as the Mudokons give him space. Emmett sits up before noticing the Mudokons. He scoots back and pulls out his revolver, pointing it at the Mudokons.)

Emmett: Who the hell are you guys? (The Mudokons all cower in fear as Emmett stands up. Emmett stops pointing his gun at them.) Where am I? (One Mudokon slowly approaches Emmett.)

Mudokon: You floated down… from space. Please… help us.

Emmett: Help you?

Mudokon: Abe… our friend… he was captured and taken away… by them. (The Mudokon points to a Covenant ship with a dead Grunt lying next to it.) He bravely defeated that one, but the other took him away. (Emmett walks over to the ship to investigate. He begins talking aloud.)

Emmett: Cutter, do you copy? (We hear the voice of Sydney Cutter (Starhawk) talking to Emmett.)

Cutter: Copy, Emmett. Boy, am I glad to hear from you. Thought I lost you.

Emmett: Cutter, do you know where I am?

Cutter: Negative, Emmett. Seems we’ve both been transported to some kind of new galaxy. And if both us got taken here, we might not be the only ones. (Emmett gets into the Covenant ship. It turns on. We see the distress signal from before come on.)

Jackal: Sending coordinates to Covenant Space Station! Send help immediately! Send help immediatel- (All sound cuts off. The Mudokons are seen behind Emmett, watching.)

Mudokon: Those are the ones who took Abe.

Emmett: Seems like they have bigger problems. I better go check it out. (A Mudokon grabs onto Emmett’s arm.)

Mudokon: Please… save our friend. (Emmett looks at the Mudokon.)

Emmett: I’ll do my best. (The Mudokon lets go of Emmett as the ship takes off.)

(We cut again to see the Normandy in space. We cut inside to see Master Chief, Commander Shepard, Commander Keen, and Liara sitting at a table in the ship.)

Keen: Wow, you guys have gone on so many adventures!

Liara: Seems like you keep busy yourself, kid.

Keen: Aw, it’s nothing. Just some space mischief every now and then. (We then hear Jeff Moreau’s voice from the cockpit.)

Jeff: Commander, we’ve got a distress signal incoming. (Shepard gets up.)

Shepard: I better take a look at this. (Master Chief gets up also.)

Master Chief: I’ll check it out too. Might be someone I know. (Shepard and Master Chief go towards the cockpit. We cut to them entering with Jeff at the control panel.)

Jeff: Nice to see you, Commander. You too, Chief.

Shepard: What’s the situation, Joker?

Jeff: Received this a few minutes ago. (He plays the same distress signal from before, this time with the video showing.) Holy f*ck. What was that thing?

Master Chief: Something’s attacking the Covenant.

Shepard: What’s the Covenant?

Master Chief: They’re an empire of alien species. We’ve been at war with them for a long time.

Shepard: Looks like they’re in trouble. What the hell was that thing?

Master Chief: Nothing I’ve ever seen before. We need to check it out.

Jeff: Commander?

Shepard: Let’s go.

Jeff: Alright, I’ll plug in those coordinates. (We cut back to space as we see the Normandy start turning to its right.)

(We cut to the hangar of the Covenant Space Station as Emmett flies in on the Covenant ship. We see it land as he jumps out of it, armed with his revolver. His goggles and mask are off.)

Emmett: Where is everyone? (He sees the Marker.) Cutter, do you have a read on my location?

Cutter: I think so, Emmett.

Emmett: That… thing. Is it giving off rift energy?

Cutter: Not rift energy, but some other kind of energy. I wouldn’t go near it.

Emmett: Copy that. (Emmett walks off further through the space station. We cut to Abe still cowering in his cell. We see two Elite Necromorphs stalking around the area. They look at Abe in his cell, but can’t open it.)

Abe: Please g-g-g-go away. (The Necromorphs get bored of Abe and leave the area through a door on the far side of the area. Suddenly, the door closer to Abe opens and Emmett walks through. Emmett sees Abe and rushes towards him.)

Emmett: You must be Abe. I’m here to save you.

Abe: (Quickly shushing him.) Shhhhhh. They’ll hear you.

Emmett: Who?

Abe: The zombies.

Emmett: Zombies? (Guttural sounds are heard as a Necromorph bursts into the room through the door closest to Emmett.)

Abe: They’ve found us! (Emmett begins shooting at the Necromorph, not doing much damage. The Necromorph attempts to slice into Emmett, but he quickly turns around and jumps out of the way. A sound is heard from above as the ceiling above Abe opens up and another Necromorph drops down into the cell.) Oh no! (The Necromorph attempts to stab into Abe, but Abe rolls underneath its legs as it lunges towards him. Abe begins chanting softly to himself. A magic aura surrounds the Necromorph as Abe takes control of it. We cut to Emmett on the ground, shooting at the Necromorph attacking him.)

Emmett: You’re dust! (Emmett looks over to see the Necromorph in the cell with Abe.) Hold on! (Emmett shoots at the keypad next to the cell. It short circuits and the cell opens. The controlled Necromorph runs out and attacks the Necromorph after Emmett. The controlled Necromorph tears into the other, removing its limbs and head, killing it. We then see Emmett shoot the controlled Necromorph in the head, destroying it. He turns to Abe.) You alright?

Abe: I think so. (He runs over to Emmett.) Please get me out of here.

Emmett: Don’t worry, Abe. We’re getting out. It’s Emmett by the way.

Abe: Thank you, Emmett. (The two walk carefully off. We cut back to the hangar as the Normandy lands inside. Our heroes, accompanied by Liara, walk out.)

Keen: This place looks deserted.

Master Chief: Cortana. (Master Chief holds out his hand as Cortana appears on it.) What do you make of this?

Cortana: No one is here, but all of the ships are. My guess is the Covenant are still here.

Shepard: Alive?

Cortana: Hard to say. (Keen notices the Marker.)

Keen: Hey, small blue lady, what’s that big thing over there.

Cortana: Don’t go near that! Dangerous energy is coming out of it. Stay away from it at all costs.

Master Chief: Got it.

Shepard: Let’s split up. (Shepard arms his assault rifle.) Chief, you and I will stick together and head towards the main control area. Liara, you take the kid and skim the area for any survivors, but be careful.

Liara: Yes, Commander. (The two groups split up. We cut to Keen and Liara walking through the space station. Keen is armed with his blaster as the two sneak through the space station)

Keen: No one’s gonna get the drop on me!

Liara: Just be careful, Commander. (She smiles. We cut to Emmett, now with his rifle, and Abe also carefully walking through. They turn the corner to see Liara and Keen. Emmett points his rifle at them as Liara suspends him in midair.)

Emmett: Woah! (Abe falls backwards as Keen points his blaster at him.)

Keen: Who are you?!

Abe: A-A-Abe… (We see Emmett try to move, but he can’t.) Please let my friend go. We need to get out. (Liara sets Emmett down.)

Emmett: Thanks.

Liara: What’s been going on here?

Emmett: Zombies have taken over the ship. I got lucky saving Abe here. We need to get out of here.

Keen: Are there any more survivors?

Abe: No… no one.

Keen: Don’t worry. We have a ship. We’ll get you out of here. (We cut back to Jeff on the ship. A knocking sound is heard from outside the ship.)

Jeff: Commander? (Jeff opens up the ship and steps out into the hangar.) Commander? Liara? (A pause.) Huh, must be hearing thin- (The arm of a Necromorph goes through Jeff.) N-No… (Jeff falls to the ground, dead.)

(We cut Master Chief and Shepard walking through the space station. They enter a room that is the same room where the distress signal was recorded.)

Shepard: This is where the message was recorded.

Master Chief: Looks empty. (Cortana appears again and touches the control panel.) What can you learn, Cortana?

Cortana: There’s something on here they call the Marker. They found a black one on another planet. The Covenant members on that mission were compelled to make a red one here. That’s what we saw.

Shepard: But what does it mean?

Cortana: Strange energies emanate off both of them. There’s a good chance this “Marker” caused the problems on this ship. Our only option is to destroy it.

Master Chief: We need to destroy the space station.

Cortana: The hangar we arrived in is close to the engine room. By blowing up the engine room, the entire space station will be destroyed.

Shepard: Let’s head back. (The sound of a Necromorph is heard as one runs in the room and slams Shepard onto the control panel. Alarms start blaring throughout the space station. We cut to our other group as they look around confused.)

Keen: What’s happening? (A Necromorph erupts from the floor and stabs into Liara.)

Liara: Agh!

Keen: Liara! (Emmett shoots the Necromorph in the head as both it and Liara drop into the floor.)

Emmett: We need to go! (Keen, Emmett, and Abe all start running as more Necromorphs appear behind them, coming from the other halls and the ceiling. We go back to Shepard pinned to the control panel as Master Chief cuts off the arms of the Necromorph with his Plasma Sword. Shepard then stabs the Necromorph in the neck with his Omni-Blade. The Necromorph drops.)

Master Chief: Let’s go. (Shepard nods and the two run off. We cut back to the other heroes as they reach the hangar. A large group of Necromorphs is there.)

Keen: Our ship! It’s surrounded!

Emmett: Start shooting! Aim for the head! (Emmett and Keen start shooting at the Necromorphs. Abe starts chanting again as he takes over a Necromorph body. The controlled Necromorph starts shredding the closest one. We see a Necromorph run towards Keen as Emmett grabs Keen by the collar and pulls him out of the way. Emmett then puts his rifle right up the Necromorph’s head and blasts it.)

Keen: Thanks, mister.

Emmett: Cutter, can you drop anything?

Cutter: Negative, Emmett. Your position is too difficult to get too. Sorry, you’ll have to get out without my help. (We see Master Chief and Shepard run in, guns blasting. We see a Necromorph run and slash Abe’s arm. He falls to the ground.)

Abe: No no no no! (Before the Necromorph can strike again, Shepard runs up to it and cuts its head off.) Thank you.

Shepard: All of you, in the ship! We’re blowing this place up!

Keen: Got it! (Keen, Emmett, and Master Chief run into the already open ship. Master Chief stays at the entrance, shooting Necromorphs. Keen and Emmett go to the cockpit, with Jeff nowhere to be found.) Joker?

Emmett: Who’s Joker?

Keen: He’s our pilot.

Emmett: If we don’t have a pilot, how are we going to get out of here. (Keen suddenly looks determined.)

Keen: Leave it to me. (Keen starts pressing the controls as the ship powers up. We cut back to Master Chief as Shepard talks to him.)

Shepard: Chief, the bomb! (Master Chief pulls out a C-12 from off the ship and throws it at Shepard. Shepard catches it and runs towards the engine room. Abe follows close behind for safety. Abe suddenly trips and knocks into Shepard, making him drop the C-12.)

Abe: Uf! (We see a Necromorph grab and destroy the C-12.)

Shepard: No! (He looks back to see a Necromorph reaching towards Abe. Shepard shoots at the Necromorph and helps Abe up.) We’ll have to forget about the bomb. Let’s get out of here. (Shepard continues shooting as they reach the Normandy. They get inside with Master Chief.)

Master Chief: What about the bomb?

Shepard: It’s been destroyed. That was our only explosive. (Abe suddenly gets an idea. We see Abe fart and then begin chanting as he possesses it.) Huh? (We see the fart float towards the engine room.)

Abe: Start flying out of here now.

Shepard: Joker! Get us out of here! (We cut to Keen and Emmett.)

Keen: On it! (The Normandy takes off as we see the fart explode at the engine room entrance. The space station begins exploding. We see the explosions take over the Marker. We cut to see the Normandy flying as the space station continues to blow up. We cut to the cockpit as our heroes meet up.)

Shepard: Nice flying, Joke-... Joker? (Keen turns around.)

Keen: I don’t think Joker made it. Liara neither. (Shepard looks down.) I’m sorry, sir. (Abe puts a hand on Shepard’s arm.)

Abe: Thank you for saving me. (Shepard nods.)

Emmett: So who are you all supposed to be?

Master Chief: We’re after Master Mind. He sent us here, and he wants war.

Abe: War?

Shepard: We’re gonna kill him and get home.

Emmett: Well, count me in. Where do we find this guy? (Keen types on the control panel as a picture of Earth comes up.)

Master Chief: That’s where we go.

End of Episode

Chapter 14: Stones Unturned

(The episode begins at night outside of a hotel. We see a shadow move on the roof of a building across from the front of the hotel. The camera zooms into a window as the scene shifts to a hotel room. We see a shard of the Shadow Crystal lying on a bedside table as the camera turns to see Professor Layton sitting on the hotel bed. We hear a monologue running through his head.)

Layton: My name is Professor Hershel Layton. I appeared in this new city not too long ago, far away from everyone and everything I know. (He looks over at the shard and picks it up.) However, I believe that this mysterious shard that I found may be a key to what's occurred. Its strange aura is like nothing I’ve ever seen, so I have decided to take a train in the morning to find someone who can help me. (Layton puts the shard back down as well as his hat. He turns off the bedside lamp and lays down.) But for now, I need sleep. (Layton closes his eyes.)

(We cut to a POV shot through binoculars looking into Layton’s window. The binoculars are focused on the Shadow Crystal shard.)

???: So, looks like that old guy is hiding some loot. Shouldn’t be too much trouble. (We cut to see a figure putting down their binoculars. The camera pans up to reveal the figure of Rouge the bat.)

Rouge: That color is absolutely darling. Looks like only a small piece of a bigger jewel, but I’m not picky. Diamonds are a girl's best friend. (Rouge turns her back to the hotel.) Looks like I have plans for tomorrow. (She laughs to herself.)

(We cut to daytime outside the hotel. We see Layton walk out and start down the street. He passes by Rafael (Rhythm Thief) and Ashley Graham (Resident Evil).)

Layton: (To Ashley.) Good day, young lady. (He tips his hat.)

Ashley: Thank you. (We cut to the skies as we see Rouge flying in the air, watching Layton.)

Rouge: This’ll be too easy. (She starts flying forward.)

(We cut to a bar with patrons sitting at tables around the room. We see Sniper (Team Fortress) drinking from a mug talking to Chloe Frazier (Uncharted). Sniper slams down his mug.)

Sniper: Another!

Chloe: (Under her breath.) Drunk b*stard. (The camera continues to pan until it gets to the bar. Brewster (Animal Crossing) is manning the bar. We see Michael de Santa (Grand Theft Auto) as the camera zooms out, revealing Kazuma Kiryu drinking from a bottle. We cut to outside the building as a number of people in trench coats approach the front door and head inside. We cut back to Kiryu as we hear a voice behind him.)

???: So, we finally found you. (Kiryu turns around to see Vito Scaletta surrounded by Mafia members (Mafia) as well as some normal members of the Mafia.)

Kiryu: Nandeshou?

Vito: In English. (Vito approaches Kiryu as he pauses for a moment.)

Kiryu: What do you want?

Vito: I’ve been hearing a lot about you lately. Some kind of Dragon of Dojima. You're Yakuza.

Kiryu: And what if I am?

Vito: (Starts pacing.) Ya see, we don’t need no low-lifes like you running around my city.

Kiryu: (Stands up.) Your city? You are vain. What makes this your city?

Vito: Me and my men are everywhere. Mafia runs the place here.

Kiryu: Let me guess, you want me to leave. You are a coward.

Vito: Don’t call me no f*cking coward! (Two Mafia members on either side of Kiryu pull out tommy guns as everyone in the bar gasps.) Making you leave is too easy, you b*stard. We gotta send a message to anyone who may wanna go against us. (Vito snaps his fingers.) Bye bye. (The Mafia members start shooting, but Kiryu quickly jumps behind the bar and takes cover. We see Brewster cowering behind it.) Hiding ain’t gonna do you no good.

Kiryu: (To Brewster.) Do not worry, bird.

Brewster: O-Okay… (Kiryu grabs a glass as a member comes behind the counter with a gun. Kiryu throws a glass into his face as Kiryu then runs up and punches the member in the stomach, slamming him into the wall. Kiryu then dives underneath a nearby table and flips it over to act as a shield as more members shoot at him.)

Kiryu: Your guns do not scare me. (Kiryu picks up the table and slams it onto a member’s back. Patrons are seen running out of the bar in the background. Kiryu then spins around and throws the table into another member, knocking him down. Kiryu then reaches to a table behind him to continuously throw glasses set on it towards the Mafia members.)

Mafia Members: Augh! (The shield their faces as the glass causes them to bleed. Seeing his chance, Kiryu rushes out of the bar.)

Vito: Follow him! (We see Kiryu burst out of the doorway as he turns to his left and begins running. We see the doorway again as Vito and the rest of the Mafia burst out. Vito spots Kiryu.) There he is! (They begin running after him. We see Kiryu running down the sidewalk as Irresponsible Dad (Happy Wheels) rides past on a bike. Kiryu grabs the bike which stops it and flings Irresponsible Dad off of it.)

Irresponsible Dad: Aaaah! (Kiryu spins back towards the Mafia and throws the bike at them. It hits them and knocks them over.)

Mafia Members: Agh! (We cut to Layton on the street as he walks through town holding the shard.)

Layton: Now, what kind of gem will you turn out to be? (We pan to an overhead shot of Layton as a shadow with bat wings appears right behind him. Layton reaches the train station as he gives his train ticket to Porter (Animal Crossing). The shard is now in Layton’s pocket.)

Porter: Have a good trip, sir!

Layton: Thank you! (He smiles. We see Layton board the train as he suddenly bumps into Rouge.)

Rouge: Oh, I’m so sorry.

Layton: (Tips his top hat.) Not a problem, young lady. (Layton walks away as Rouge reveals the shard in her hand.)

Rouge: Like taking candy from a baby. (Rouge walks to a different part of the train.)

(We cut back to where Layton gave his ticket as Kiryu runs right past the ticket check. Porter and a regular ticket taker look on in shock. They see Vito and the rest of the Mafia running towards the train and rush out to stop them. Vito and the others stop. We cut to Kiryu boarding the train as he looks back and smirks at Vito. We cut back to Vito.)

Vito: (To other members.) C’mon, let’s go. (They leave the ticket takers.)

(We cut to the inside of the train as Kiryu walks through. He opens up a door to reveal Layton sitting in a roomette.)

Layton: Hello there. Are we sharing this roomette? (Kiryu nods and sits next to Layton.) My name is Professor Hershel Layton. What’s yours?

Kiryu: I am Kazuma Kiryu.

Layton: It’s very nice to meet you. I’m on this train to do business. Yourself?

Kiryu: (Pauses.) Also business.

Layton: Splendid. Perhaps you could help me with a puzzle that I’ve been working on. I’ve found this strange jewel and haven’t been able to identify it. (He reaches into his pocket.) If you’d be so kind, could you… (He stops.) Strange. I can’t seem to find it.

Kiryu: Huh?

Layton: It’s disappeared. I must find it at once. Maybe it’s still on the train. (We see the train start off as the scenery outside the window moves.)

Kiryu: I hope so. For your sake. (Layton begins to leave the roomette.) I can help you.

Layton: Really? Thank you. (Kiryu nods as they leave the roomette.)

(We cut to the very back of the train as Vito and the other Mafia members come in through the back. They look around.)

Vito: That Yakuza member is somewhere on this train.

Mafia Member: Do we still need to take care of him? (Vito grabs him by the coat.)

Vito: What the f*ck do you think? No one gets away from us alive. (He lets go.) F*ckface.

(We cut to Rouge in a train car as she palms the shard. A shelf full of luggage and some crates line the walls.)

Rouge: Absolutely stunning. (Two Mafia members enter the train car and see Rouge with the shard.)

Mafia Member #1: Well, what do we have here?

Rouge: Beat it, creep.

Mafia Member #2: Lotta talk from someone with your looks. What even are you?

Rouge: Ever seen a bat before? I guess someone like you wouldn’t get out much anyways.

Mafia Member #1: Alright, I was tryna be nice to ya. Hand over that jewel there and we won’t turn you into a fur coat. (They take out pistols.)

Rouge: You both make me sick.

Mafia Member #1: (Holds out hand.) Jewel.

(We cut to Layton and Kiryu roaming through the train, continuously looking at the ground.)

Layton: It must be around here somewhere. (Kiryu reaches a door that says storage above it.)

Kiryu: Do you think it could be in here?

Layton: Yes, maybe they found it and are keeping it back here. (Kiryu opens the door as they enter and see Rouge being held up by the Mafia.)

Rouge: Hello, boys. About time you got here. (Layton and Kiryu cautiously walk to Rouge.)

Kiryu: I thought I left you punks behind.

Mafia Member #2: You ain’t gonna escape the Mafia that easily, pal.

Kiryu: Leave the lady alone. A gentleman never hurts a woman. Even thugs like you should know this.

Mafia Member #1: You can tell that to Satan’s boys when you arrive in Hell. (Both members raise their guns as Layton quickly turns to the storage shelf where an emergency life raft is stored. Layton pulls the cord on it as it quickly expands into a full raft, knocking both Mafia members over.) Sh*t!

Layton: Run! (Our heroes turn around to escape out of the train car. Vito and the other Mafia members enter the area. Vito sees the two members on the ground.)

Vito: What the f*ck are you two doing?!

Mafia Member #1: We found him! He’s got two other people working with him!

Mafia Member #2: They’re heading towards the front of the train!

Vito: Grab them! (Vito and the rest of the Mafia give chase. We cut to our heroes making their way through the train.)

Layton: (To Rouge.) So you stole my gem?

Rouge: Yeah, yeah, save it for later.

Layton: (To Kiryu.) And you?

Kiryu: Member of the Yakuza.

Layton: Oh dear. (We see Vito and the Mafia catching up behind them.)

Vito: You’re not gettin’ away! (They start pulling out guns. Our heroes pass a stewardess cart with drinks placed on it. Kiryu pushes it fast towards Vito. It slams into him and the rest of the Mafia as drinks spill and glass breaks. Passengers begin looking out of their roomettes.)

Layton: (To Kiryu and Rouge.) We must keep going. (Layton drags the others to the next train cart.)

Vito: Nothin’ to see here, folks. (They continue their pursuit. We cut to our heroes in a new train car.)

Layton: We’re going to run out of train if we keep running. We need to figure out how to deal with those thugs.

Kiryu: (Cracking knuckles.) We could take them all out.

Layton: That’ll put the patrons at risk

Rouge: Oh, boooooys. (They turn to Rouge in front of an open train car door.) How about we take this to the roof? (Kiryu nods and goes to Rouge. Layton follows. We cut to Vito and the Mafia running through as they reach the door our heroes just went through. We see Layton’s foot go past the door window.)

Vito: They’re heading to the roof! (Other Mafia members run past Vito as they open the door and start up the ladder. As the first member reaches the top. Rouge approaches him.)

Rouge: Have a safe trip. (Rouge kicks the member in the face as he’s flung off the train. The train is currently running on the side of the mountain with a forest below. The next member comes up with a knife and swings at Rouge. She backs up to Kiryu and Layton. Mafia members get to the roof and start charging towards our heroes. Kiryu punches one in the chest twice before grabbing him by the collar and throwing him off the roof. We then see Rouge perform a leg sweep as a Mafia member falls over and slips off the train. We then cut to Layton running across the train car as he suddenly trips over. Two Mafia member stand over him.)

Mafia Member #3: End of the line, Sherlock.

Kiryu: Maybe for you. (The Mafia members turn around to see Kiryu. Kiryu grabs a member by the neck and performs a pile drive on him. The member is then thrown off the train. The other member pulls out a gun, but is then pinched on the neck by Layton. He slumps over.) How did you…?

Layton: Every puzzle has its answer. Even a puzzle such as this. (We cut to Vito and the other Mafia members shooting at the edge of the train car. We see a bullet skin Rouge as she pulls out one of her bombs.)

Rouge: Let’s try this. (Rouge throws the bomb.)

Vito: Duck! (Vito and two other members dive forward as the bomb hits a different member. All of the Mafia except for Vito and the two other divers are thrown from the train. Vito and the others get up with their guns and begin shooting. They hit Kiryu in the arm as he falls over. Layton grabs onto him as Rouge jumps over to them.)

Layton: Are you okay?

Vito: Enough playing around. I’m putting an end to this.

Mafia Member #1: But first we want the gem from that broad over there.

Rouge: Broad?! How dare you!

Vito: Don’t get too excited now. You’re in no position for that. (Vito holds out his hands.) Hand it over, and I'll promise a quick death. (We see a cavern in the background that the train is heading towards. The Mafia don’t see it because it’s behind them. The roof is too low for them to fit. Layton suddenly gets a look as if he has an idea. He turns to Rouge.)

Layton: I’ll do it. (Layton whispers to her.) The bomb. (Rouge understands.)

Rouge: Well, if you must. (Rouge puts a bomb in Layton’s hands, with Vito thinking it’s the shard.)

Layton: The gem as you requested. (Layton throws the bomb at them. Vito shoots it in midair and it explodes. To Rouge.) Fly us out! (Rouge grabs onto Kiryu and Layton and they jump off the train.)

Vito: Liars! (They shoot at our heroes as they descend into the forest.) No!

Mafia Member #2: Boss!

Vito: What?! (He turns to see the cavern.) Agh! (The camera zooms in on Vito’s face as the screen goes black.)

(We cut to Rouge landing in the forest.)

Kiryu: Thank you two for helping me. Not many people would jump in to save a member of the Yakuza.

Layton: I can tell you’re no common thug. (To Rouge.) Now, my jewel please.

Rouge: I guess it’s only fair. You did save our butts. (Rouge hands it over.) What’s so special about it anyways?

Layton: I’ve never seen anything like it before. It emits a strange aura. And maybe… (He pauses.)

Kiryu: Maybe?

Layton: Maybe it can help us return home.

(The camera zooms in on the Shadow Crystal shard as the screen goes black. A train whistle is heard in the background.)

End of Episode

Chapter 15: Definition of Insanity

(The episode begins at night in a valley. A Pineco (Pokemon) is seen hanging on the side of a tree and sleeping as a group of Keese (The Legend of Zelda) fly from a grouping of trees. We see a figure walk by the tree.)

Pineco: (Waking up.) Pineco… (The figure continues walking as the camera turns to face him, revealing him to be Corvo Attano.)

Corvo: Another dark night away from familiarity. (Sounds of yelling are suddenly heard from far off.) Trouble. (Corvo pulls out his mask.) I should take a closer look. (We cut away to see a group of pirate assaulters (Far Cry) running through the valley.)

Pirate Assaulter #1: She’s over here!

Pirate Assaulter #2: This way! (A few begin shooting as the camera pans. We see a shadowy figure quickly move away from the bullets.) She’s getting away! (We cut to Corvo silently approaching the feud as he pulls out a pistol.)

Corvo: What is this? (The shadowy figure suddenly transforms into a swarm of bats and starts towards Corvo. The bats fly over his head as he stands up to get a better look.) Bats?

Pirate Assaulter #1: Who’s that?! (Corvo turns around to see all eyes on him. He holds out his pistol as one of the pirates shoots him in the right side of his chest.)

Corvo: Augh! (Corvo clutches his side as he crouches over. We see a tranquilizer dart suddenly fly into his neck. He pulls it out and studies it as the world around him shakes.) No… (Corvo falls over. We cut back to the pirates.)

Pirate Assaulter #3: What do we do with him? (We see someone walk up to the now unconscious Corvo and bend down to study him. He turns around, revealing himself to be Vaas.)

Vaas: Leave him to me. (He smiles.)

(We cut to the next day to a bustling town. Pedestrians are seen walking around. We see Neko (Mana) at a fish stand trying to sell fish. One of the fish appears to be a Remoraid (Pokemon). We also see an outdoor restaurant which has seated Berri (Conker) and Toadsworth (Super Mario). We cut to another section of town which has a large statue of Benjamin Franklin. Many people are standing around looking at it. The camera pans towards the crowd to reveal Connor Kenway looking up at the statue.)

Connor: It is nice to see you again, Benjamin. This strange new world… it is similar, yet different to the nation General Washington wished to create. (We see a dollar being blown in the wind as it lands next to Connor’s feet.) Your faces are seen everywhere. (We see a tour guide lead a group up to the statue.)

Tour Guide: And this is a statue of one of our founding fathers: Benjamin Franklin! (Connor turns towards them.) Who can tell me what Benjamin Franklin is known for? (A small boy raises his hand.)

Boy: Electricity!

Tour Guide: That’s right! He flew a kite with a key attached to it and it was struck by lightning.

Connor: They know of all your achievements, and still, I saw you in the flesh not long ago. (Connor walks away from the statue. We cut to a manhole near the statue as a large hand reaches out of it. Panicked screams are suddenly heard as Connor turns around.) Huh? (The camera pans to see the Creature (Castlevania) and Flea Man (Castlevania) on its back. The Flea Man points at the crowd of people as the Creature runs towards them.)

Creature: Argh! (People begin fleeing as the Creature slams his arms onto the ground. He then swings them wildly into people standing near him.)

Connor: Stop! (Connor takes out his bow and begins firing arrows at the creature. A few stick into the Creature’s back.)

Creature: Agh! (The Creature grabs a sign post about Ben Franklin and throws it at Connor.)

Connor: Gah! (Connor quickly dives out of the way as the sign post hits the ground. He fires another arrow into the Creature’s arm.)

Creature: Owogh! (Flea Man points away from the statue as the Creature nods and begins running away. We see Connor get up.)

Connor: You turn and run like a coward! (Connor runs after him.) But I do not give up. (We cut to Connor tailing the Creature through the streets as they turn a corner. Everyone runs as the Creature tramples through. The Creature turns another corner into an isolated area with Connor close behind. As Connor turns, the Creature swings a punch into Connor’s face and knocks him back.) Ah!

Flea Man: Hehehe! (The Creature grabs Connor and throws him into a building. He crumbles to the ground, barely conscious. The Creature begins approaching him and winds up a punch. As he throws the punch, a flash of purple flies across the screen as we see a hand grab the Creature’s fist, stopping it.)

???: It’s not very nice to pick on someone smaller than you. For shame. (The camera zooms out to reveal Bayonetta’s hand grabbing the Creature’s.)

Creature: Guh?

Bayonetta: If you want to know how to talk to a lady, ask your mummy. (Bayonetta stomps her leg as she uses her Wicked Weaves to summon a large leg to crush the Creature. The Creature gets up and throws another punch as Bayonetta backflips out of the way.) Tcha. (Bayonetta begins shooting her pistols at the Creature as he begins to fall to the ground. Connor gets up and takes out a tomahawk.)

Connor: Yah! (Connor throws the tomahawk into the Creature’s neck as he falls to the ground. Flea Man hops off of his back to try to get away, but another large leg comes down and squishes him.)

Bayonetta: That should take care of those dreadful creatures. (She looks back at Connor.) As for you, young man, you did a good job carrying your weight. I applaud it.

Connor: (Holding another tomahawk.) What are you?

Bayonetta: No need to be so scared. I did just save your life. (Connor stays silent.) I am an Umbra Witch if you must know.

Connor: (Referring to the Creature.) And that thing? Was it an Atenenyarhu?

Bayonetta: That, I’m not sure of. It’s been up to me to take care of monsters and demons such as him. (She rolls her eyes.) It’s been dreadful, but somebody has to do it.

Connor: So, you are on the side of humans.

Bayonetta: I am on the side against demons. (She walks closer to Connor.) Now, do you have a name I can call you?

Connor: My name is Ratonhnhaké:ton, but you may call me Connor.

Bayonetta: And you may call me Bayonetta. (She reaches out her hand as they shake.) Charmed.

(We cut away as we see Corvo, now without his mask, lying unconscious in a cage. His eyes slowly open as he gets up and looks around. We see more Pirate Assaulters walking around, some are looking through crates of firearms. A grand majority of them are armed.)

???: Sleeping Beauty has finally woken up. (Corvo turns to see Vaas crouched down outside of his cage. Vaas is holding Corvo’s mask.) I must say, I’ve been very excited to get to know you.

Corvo: Why am I here?

Vaas: Has anyone ever told you the definition of insanity? Of doing the same f*cking thing over and over again and expecting sh*t to change? Well, my friend, I believe I finally have lost my sanity. (Vaas gets up and begins to pace.)

Corvo: What the hell are you talking about?

Vaas: That’s exactly it! We are in Hell. All I can remember is my vision going dark as I woke up here. (He gestures around him.) Everything I knew was gone, and to make matters worse, demons began crawling their way out of the fires and making themselves known.

Corvo: So you believe that some kind of rapture has occurred and we've found ourselves in Hell? I find that hard to believe.

Vaas: (Waggling his finger.) Ah ah ah! You saw it for yourself last night. That d*mn witch that we’ve been chasing got away again! And who do we find at the scene of the crime? You.

Corvo: You think I’m a demon.

Vaas: Who’s to say? If I’ve lost my mind and this is some sort of sick dream, than nothing even f*cking matters. And if nothing f*cking matters, (He points to a town seen across the valley.) Then destroying that town to look for the witch, killing everyone who gets in our way, (He shrugs.) Doesn’t mean anything.

Corvo: You are sick. This isn’t some demented nightmare. These are real people with real lives.

Vaas: And how can I trust you? As far as I know, I created you in my insanity. (He looks at Corvo’s mask.) You know, they say that it is only with a mask that people show their true colors. You… hide everything until you get the opportunity to put this on, then it doesn’t matter. That’s f*cked up. (He leans down to Corvo.) I don’t need a mask to show who I really am. (Vaas gets back up and throws Corvo’s mask behind him.) Let’s get going. (To two Pirate Assaulters.) You two, make sure he doesn’t get out. (They nod.)

(We cut back to Connor and Bayonetta as they walk through town.)

Connor: You must tell me more of these demons. I cannot stand by as they put the people into danger.

Bayonetta: I appreciate the help, darling. (Screaming is suddenly heard further into town.) Sounds like more demons have found their way into town. (Our heroes run further into town as they see Pirate Assaulters firing at civilians in town. We cut to one jumping on a bench and firing as another in the background destroys a parked car window with his gun. We cut again to Vaas shooting with fires behind him. More Pirate Assaulters run past him.)

Vaas: Find the witch! Burn the witch!

Bayonetta: Sounds like they’re looking for me.

Connor: Who are they?

Bayonetta: They’ve been hunting me down, but I’ve outsmarted them at every turn. (She readies her pistols.) Let’s put an end to this. (To the assaulters.) Oh, booooys! (The Pirate Assaulters turn towards her.) Let’s dance! (Bayonetta runs and jumps towards the carnage as butterfly wings briefly come out of her back. As she lands, she rolls onto her back and begins firing with the pistols on her shoes. We see multiple Pirate Assaulters fall to the ground as others try to quickly fire at Bayonetta. We cut to a Pirate Assaulter firing at Bayonetta as Connor jumps towards him and thrusts his hidden blade through the back of his neck. We cut to Vaas as he slowly smiles.)

Vaas: (To himself.) The witch is here. (Loudly.) The witch is here! (Vaas and the others continue their fire on Bayonetta as we see her activate Witch Time.)

Bayonetta: Bring it! (A purple aura surrounds Bayonetta as a clock hand slowly goes around her. She weaves her way around the bullets spraying past her as she twirls in the air. She uses her weaves again to create a giant fist which punches down a group of four Pirate Assaulters.) As easy as that. (We see two Pirate Assaulters behind her as two arrows shoot into their chests, knocking them over. Connor then leaps over to Bayonetta and throws a tomahawk at another assaulter running towards them.)

Connor: (To Bayonetta.) Are you alright?

Bayonetta: (Firing her pistols.) Never been better, darling. (We see Vaas take out a grenade.)

Vaas: Let’s see how our witch b*tch likes this. (He throws it towards Connor and Bayonetta as it lands near them.)

Connor: What is that?

Bayonetta: Get down! (Bayonetta tackles Connor away as the grenade explodes, knocking them far away.)

(We cut back to Corvo as he remains in his cage. His two guards stand with machine guns next to his cage.)

Pirate Assaulter #1: (To Corvo.) Looks like you’re not getting out of here anytime soon. Trapped like a rat. (Corvo looks up at that statement.)

Corvo: Rats, you say?

Pirate Assaulter #2: Yeah, a weak, little, stupid rat stuck in his cage.

Corvo: Couldn’t have said it better myself. (Corvo raises his hand as a dark aura surrounds it. A portal suddenly appears between the assaulters as a swarm of rats (Dishonored) come out of it. They begin swarming on the assaulters and eating them. The two assaulters scream as this happens until their bodies fall to the ground, limp. The rats scurry off.) Brilliant. (Corvo reaches through the bars and grabs a set of keys that the assaulter to his right had. He unlocks his cage and steps out.) Now to stop this madman. (He turns to his mask.) But first…

(We cut back to the town as Bayonetta spins in circles while firing her pistols. We then see Connor stab a Pirate Assaulter through the chest as another grenade goes off nearby. The camera pans to Vaas as a Pirate Assaulter runs up next to him.)

Pirate Assaulter #3: What are you doing? You’re going to hit our own men?! (Vaas shoots him.)

Vaas: None of it matters. (We hear the sound of scurrying.) Huh? (A large group of rats suddenly runs into town and starts attacking the nearest assaulters. We see a Pirate Assaulter raise his gun to Connor as Corvo, wearing his mask, suddenly drops down, stabbing his blade into the assaulter. Connor looks at Corvo with distrust.)

Corvo: Do not worry. I am here to stop these marauders. (Connor nods. Corvo begins firing his pistol as Connor uses his bow.)

Vaas: (Holding the sides of his head.) No no no no! This can’t be happening! (Bayonetta suddenly appears behind him.)

Bayonetta: You’re the one behind this, aren’t you? Finally, we get to meet face to face.

Vaas: (Gesticulating with his pistol.) You! You’re the witch! You did this to me! You broke my mind!

Bayonetta: Darling, I did no such thing.

Vaas: I’m not going to give you the satisfaction of killing me! I won’t let you f*cking win! (He points his pistol to his head.) Now, watch the true definition of insanity! (He pulls the trigger, but he has run out of ammo.) No. (He keeps pulling the trigger.) Noooooooo! D*mn you!

Bayonetta: Don’t go blaming me for your problems now. (Bayonetta winds up a punch and summons her weave to create a giant fist. This knocks Vaas into a wall as he falls to the ground, unconscious. Corvo and Connor walk over and observe Vaas.)

Corvo: Is he dead?

Bayonetta: No, I pity him really. I don’t believe he’s quite all there. I’m hoping a break may help him.

Connor: Others have fled. Some have died, others unconscious.

Bayonetta: Leave them for the bobbies. I have much more important issues than to babysit these boys.

Corvo: (To Bayonetta.) You are the witch I saw last night.

Bayonetta: I thought I remembered that mask from somewhere. I’m Bayonetta. Charming to meet you.

Corvo: I am Corvo Attano. I am not of this world.

Bayonetta: Neither am I, darling. But I believe these demons may house the key to our escape.

Corvo: Demons?

Connor: Would you care to join us? These demons are coming from somewhere. We have to stop them.

Corvo: (Nodding.) I shall aid you noble heroes. Now, lead me to these monsters.

Bayonetta: (Smirking.) Well, boys, let’s get a move on, shall we? (Bayonetta jumps and grows butterfly wings again. She lands as the wings disappear and she runs off. Corvo and Connor follow. The camera cuts to Vaas, still unconscious, as police sirens are heard. Red and blue lights shine on the area as it zooms into Vaas’ head.)

Vaas: (In his head.) Definition… of… insanity… (The screen goes black.)

End of Episode

Chapter 16: Black Flag

(The episode begins with a ship lazily floating at sea. We cut to onboard the ship as a Tinkerbat (Shantae) is seen outside the captain’s quarters. It opens the door to reveal Risky Boots sitting inside.)

Risky Boots: (Sighs.) What is it? (The Tinkerbat points wildly out the door. Risky Boots stands up.) What? A ship? What are we waiting for? (She stands up.) Let’s show them who owns these seven seas! (Risky Boots storms out of the captain’s quarters. She looks around but can find no sign of a ship.) Where is it? (The Tinkerbat points upwards. The camera pans to see the Albatross flying through the skies above the ocean. We cut to the ship’s wheel to reveal Vyse steering the ship.)

Vyse: Another day sailing above the seas looking for my friends. (He looks downtrodden for a second.) I hope I can find them soon. (We see a flock of Loftwings (The Legend of Zelda) fly past the Albatross.) I must say, I am enjoying the scenery on this journey. (A distant whistling sound is heard.) What’s that? (A cannonball whizzes over the Albatross as Vyse gets a startled expression. The camera points down to see Risky Boots holding her cutlass towards the sky as cannons fire around her.)

Risky Boots: Avast ye! These seven seas belong to Risky Boots the pirate! (More cannons fire at the Albatross. Vyse runs down to the cannons of the Albatross. He begins loading a cannonball into the cannon as the Albatross is hit by a cannonball. Vyse is thrown to the ground.)

Vyse: Agh! (He tries to get up as the Albatross is hit relentlessly with cannonballs. We cut back to Risky Boots’ ship as we see the Albatross begin to descend in the background.)

Risky Boots: This will serve as a lesson to all those sailing these seas. Try as you might, these waters belong to Risky Boots and her crew. (She begins laughing as we see the Albatross hit the water and fall apart. As it hits the water, we see Vyse fall out of the ship.)

Vyse: Aaaaaah! (He hits the water and goes unconscious as broken wood falls around him. Vyse sinks lower into the ocean as we see Enguarde (Donkey Kong) swim by and look at him. Enguarde’s eyes go wide as he scoops Vyse onto his back and swims upwards. Enguarde places Vyse onto a broken part of the ship before swimming off.)

(We cut to a dock area at night with multiple ships seen around it. Large groups of sailors are walking around. We see Bo’ Rai Cho (Mortal Kombat) passed out and sleeping next to a group of barrels. We cut again to see Gulliver (Animal Crossing) fishing on a pier. A Chinchou (Pokemon) is seen bobbing in the water.)

Chinchou: Chou! Chou! (Gulliver reels in a catch which is revealed to be the head of a Henchman 800 (Rayman). Gulliver’s eyes go wide.)

Gulliver: Huh?! (We cut to the side of a large, docked ship as we see Edward Kenway next to it.)

Edward: We should be able to move your stock with us. (We see he’s talking to Tingle (The Legend of Zelda.).)

Tingle: Ooooh! Fantastic! (Tingle does a little dance.)

Edward: Are you sure you want us to take it?

Tingle: Oh, yes yes! Can’t have anyone get at my stack of rupees.

Edward: Aye. We’ll be heading out soon. (He turns to address two other sailors.) Move that to the bottom deck.

Sailor: (Nodding.) Aye.

Tingle: (Spinning around.) Tingle Tingle kooloo limpah! (The sailors get to moving the crate as the scene changes to the inside of a dark house. Three bloodied bodies are seen on the floor of the house as the camera pans to see a Little Sister (Bioshock) on the floor, playing with a rubik’s cube.)

Little Sister: This thing sure is fun. I’ll have to tell Mr. B. allllll about it when we find him. (She pauses.) I wish I had some jellies. Think we could get some? (The camera pans up to see Subject Delta looking outside the house window. The ships are seen through it, including Edward’s.)

Subject Delta: Owoooogh.

Little Sister: Mr. B. will be so happy to hear about the time we’ve spent together. It’s been so much fun. (She gets up and skips towards Subject Delta.) What’re ya looking at? (She sees the ship.) Oh, oh, a boat! That looks like fun. Maybe Mr. B. is onboard. (She climbs onto Subject Delta’s back.) Can we go?

Subject Delta: Awaugh. (We see Subject Delta lumber through the door. We cut outside as he wades through the ocean water, hiding behind the other docked ships.)

Little Sister: Are we playing hide and seek? (Subject Delta doesn’t answer as he reaches Edward’s ship. He begins climbing the side of it as we cut back to Edward on the dock.)

Sailor: You ready to push off, Kenway?

Edward: (Unenthusiastic.) Aye.

Sailor: Something the matter?

Edward: This ain’t the life I had before. Moving inventory isn’t what a pirate does.

Sailor: We left the days of pirates behind.

Edward: (Getting onto his ship.) Nobody told me. (He gets to the steering wheel.) We’re pushing off, you bilge rats. (We see the ship leave the dock as the scene shifts to below the deck. We see Subject Delta and the Little Sister hiding amongst the inventory.)

Little Sister: This game is fun. Hope Mr. B. is able to find us down here. (The camera shifts downwards as the scene changes to underwater. The outline of a Big Daddy (Bioshock) is seen in the water.) Wonder where he could be. (We cut back to Edward at the wheel as he turns to a sailor behind him.)

Edward: Check the inventory downstairs. Make sure nothing shifted.

Sailor: Aye. (He leaves for below deck. Edward looks out at sea.)

Edward: Even in this new place, the sea is still the sea. (He pauses.) If I be lucky, the sea will bring me home. She always does. (The camera pans out to see the gentle waters. The sound of water lapping on the ship is all that's heard. Suddenly, a scream is heard below the deck. Edward points to another sailor.) Take the wheel. (He unsheathes his sword.) I’m going to see what the problem is.

Sailor #2: Aye, Edward. (Edward starts running towards the stairway down below. He turns to a group of three other sailors.)

Edward: Follow me. (They nod and they all go down below. We cut to see the sailor Edward talked to screaming on the floor. Subject Delta is standing over him.)

Subject Delta: Owogh!

Little Sister: Hurt ‘im! Tear ‘im into little bits! (The drill on Subject Delta’s hand revs up as a gunshot is heard. A bullet hole is seen on the ground next to Subject Delta’s feet. The camera pans to see Edward holding a pistol with the other sailors behind him.)

Edward: That was just a warning shot. Stand back!

Little Sister: Another bad, bad man! Get ‘im! (Subject Delta rampages towards Edward as he dives out of the way. Subject Delta knocks the other sailors over with his bulk. Edward gets back up and points his sword towards Subject Delta.)

Edward: Stop! We are not here to hurt you. (Subject Delta revs his drill again.) I see you’re trying to protect the child. We’re not going to harm you or the girl. (Subject Delta stops revving his drill.)

Subject Delta: Awoogh. (The Little Sister walks up to Subject Delta.)

Little Sister: Are they friends? Are they here to help us find Mr. B.?

Edward: (Kneeling to speak to the Little Sister.) We’ll help you find whatever you’re looking for. (He leads them to the stairs.) Come up to the deck. You can tell us how you got here. (Everyone walks upstairs as a sailor runs up to Edward.)

Sailor #3: Edward, we’ve found something!

Edward: Quiet down your gob. What’s the matter? (He points away from them as Edward, Subject Delta, the Little Sister, and the other sailors walk towards the edge of the ship. We cut to see Vyse bobbing on a piece of the broken Albatross as wood floats around him.) Hoist him up here! (We cut to Edward slowly setting Vyse onto the ground as he coughs up water.)

Vyse: Wh-Who are you?

Edward: I be Edward Kenway, a pirate and captain of this here ship. Who are you? What happened?

Vyse: I’m Vyse of the Blue Rogues. My ship was shot down. I’m lucky I survived. (He starts to get up.) There are pirates out there. They want the seas to themselves.

Sailor #2: Ship on the horizon, everyone! (Edward, Vyse, Subject Delta, and the Little Sister walk towards the edge of the ship.)

Vyse: It’s them.

Little Sister: Another boat. This will be fun. (The camera pans out to see Big Daddy peeking out of the water, watching the Little Sister. Risky Boots’ ship reaches Edward’s as grappling hooks are thrown onto it. Risky Boots and her Tinkerbats jump onto Edward’s ship.)

Risky Boots: What have we here?

Edward: Get off of my ship, you scabby sea bass.

Risky Boots: So much for warm welcomes.

Vyse: (Equipping his sword.) You’re the one who destroyed my ship. You have some nerve coming back here.

Risky Boots: You have some nerve being alive. Now, here’s what’s gonna happen. You’re gonna give us everything on the ship, and nobody will get hurt.

Edward: (Pointing sword at Risky Boots.) You’re not getting anything on this here ship.

Risky Boots: So be it. (Risky pulls out her own sword.) Attack! (The Tinkerbats start charging at everyone on the ship. We see a Tinkerbat stab into one of the sailors as another jumps onto the back of a sailor and stabs into him. One runs up to Edward and swings at him. Edward parries the attack and slashes into the Tinkerbat.)

Edward: Have at you! (He turns to a Tinkerbat behind him and shoots it with his pistol.)

Vyse: You won’t get away with this! (Vyse runs towards Risky Boots as their swords clash. Vyse continues to swing at Risky Boots as she guards herself with her sword. Risky then pushes Vyse back with her sword as he falls to the ground.)

Risky: You’re just a sniveling child.

Vyse: I’ll make you eat those words! (Vyse quickly gets up and runs back towards Risky Boots. We cut to Subject Delta drilling through a Tinkerbat before throwing it into the mast of the ship.)

Subject Delta: Owogh! (We cut to the side of the ship as sailors cower from Tinkerbats. A Big Daddy suddenly jumps onto the ship and spins his drill into a sailor. He then stomps his foot onto a Tinkerbat, killing it.)

Big Daddy: Wooogh! (We cut to Subject Delta and the Little Sister.)

Little Sister: Mr. B.! I knew you’d find us! (Subject Delta protectively steps in front of the Little Sister. We see the Big Daddy stomp his foot in anger as he charges forward with his drill. Both drills clash as they attempt to hit the other. The Big Daddy slaps away Subject Delta as he heavily falls onto the ground. He gets back up, readying his drill.)

Subject Delta: Owoogh! (He charges forward. We cut back to Vyse fighting Risky Boots.)

Vyse: Pirates of old… defend our cause! (Vyse holds up two swords as he uses Skull Shield. A ghostly pirate (Skies of Arcadia) appears beside Vyse as Risky Boots swings at Vyse, who guards with his swords.)

Risky Boots: Is that all you got? (The ghostly pirate swings at Risky Boots, knocking her away. She gets up.) Cheap tactics. (We cut to Edward quickly spinning around, shooting at every Tinkerbat that makes its way towards him using his pistol.)

Edward: I refuse to go down without a fight! (He takes out his sword and slices into a Tinkerbat. We see the Big Daddy charging towards Edward with his drill. Before he can strike, Subject Delta grabs Edward and rushes out of the way. The Big Daddy slams into the railing of the ship before angrily stomping his foot again. To Subject Delta.) An enemy of yours?

Subject Delta: Awagh! (Subject Delta injects himself in the arm with a plasmid as he shoots electricity at the Big Daddy, knocking him away. We cut back to Vyse and Risky as they continue trading blows near the front of the ship. Vyse hits Risky twice in the stomach with his swords as Risky then slashes across Vyse’s chest with her sword.)

Risky Boots: Why won’t you die! (Risky tries to strike, but Vyse blocks with both swords before quickly slashing with both while being pushed back by Risky.)

Vyse: You are an embarrassment to the pirates of old! (They continue fighting as they reach the edge of the front of the ship. Risky performs a barrage of blows against Vyse as he falls over, right at the edge of the ship. Risky slashes her sword down as Vyse blocks with both of his swords.)

Risky Boots: End of the line for you, pirate boy! Any last words?

Vyse: You celebrate too early! (Vyse uses his foot to flip Risky Boots over him as she falls towards the water.)

Risky Boots: Nooooo! (She falls into the sea as the boat passes over her. We then cut to Edward at the side of the ship, next to wear the grappling hooks hooked on.)

Edward: Aye! Help me get rid of these ropes. (Another Tinkerbat jumps aboard as Edward shoots it. Edward cuts the rope of one of the hooks.)

Vyse: Aye aye! (We see Vyse run towards Edward. We then cut to see all the cut ropes being flung off the ship. Risky's boat begins to float away. We cut to Edward and Vyse.)

Edward: That should take care of it. (We cut to the Big Daddy kneeling on the ground. Subject Delta slowly moves towards him. The Little Sister runs up to the Big Daddy.)

Little Sister: Are you okay, Mr. B.? You don’t look so good. (Subject Delta stops.) Don’t worry. We’ll be back in Rapture soon.

Big Daddy: Owooogh… (Edward walks up to Subject Delta.)

Edward: It might be time to let ‘er go, mate. Seems she’s found what she’s looking for.

Subject Delta: Oogh… (Subject Delta turns away from the Big Daddy.)

Little Sister: (Getting onto the Big Daddy’s back.) C’mon Mr. B., let’s go home. (The Big Daddy glares at Subject Delta, after a second, he gets up and walks towards the opposite end of the ship that Subject Delta is on. He turns towards him.)

Big Daddy: Owogh. (The Big Daddy begins climbing down the ship with the Little Sister. Vyse meets up with the other heroes.)

Vyse: I’m sorry for what happened.

Edward: Not your fault. Someone had to stop that d*mn pirate.

Vyse: Yeah… but… your crew. (They survey the dead bodies of the sailors and Tinkerbats.) I’m sorry.

Edward: Aye. All the more reason I have to stop what’s happened to us. I thought the seas would lead me back, but life ain’t that simple.

Subject Delta: Awagh…

Vyse: Maybe we can be your crew for a bit. To get home. (Edward looks at Vyse and Subject Delta.)

Edward: Aye, you two would make a mighty fine crew. (Edward goes up to the steering wheel.) Now, let’s go home. (We cut to see Edward’s ship sailing into the distance as the flag of the Blue Rogues floats to the surface of the water.)

End of Episode

Chapter 17: Interlude

(The episode starts in a classroom with large four-person tables seating teenagers in it. Science equipment is seen on tables and shelves on the sides of the room. Ezekiel and Billy are seated at a table, now much older than before. Billy leans over to Ezekiel.)

Bill: (Whispering.) Hey, Zeke, you have my homework?

Zeke: (Sighs.) Yeah. (He reaches into a backpack sat next to his chair and pulls out a sheet of homework. He gives it to Bill.) I can’t keep doing your homework Bill. I have my own things to do after school.

Bill: What things? We both know you just play video games until your parents make you leave your room and eat dinner. (Bill grabs the homework.)

Zeke: And I can’t play video games if I’m doing your homework. (He pauses.) Besides, you’re smart enough to do it yourself.

Bill: You’re fooling yourself.

Zeke: I’m serious. You just gotta apply yourself. (He pokes Bill’s head.) You’ve got a smart brain in there, Bill, you just have to use it for homework instead of the arcade. (The camera cuts to see a teenage girl sitting at a nearby table. She’s average height with brown hair and glasses. Her clothes are well-kept, and she's sat by another girl who starts talking to her.)

Bill: Speaking of using your brain for better things.

Zeke: What are you talking about?

Bill: We both know you have heart-eyes for Charlotte Walters.

Zeke: (Blushing.) You’re crazy.

Bill: Go talk to her, man. Heard she spends her nights at the arcade. You’d know if you played video games there instead of at home.

Zeke: Mom says money is tight right now.

Bill: C’mon, Zeke. Zeke the geek. Go say hi or something.

Zeke: Fine. Just so you’ll shut up. (Zeke gets up as we cut to Charlotte. We see Zeke slowly approach the table as neither Charlotte or the other girl notice. Zeke looks back towards Bill to see him giving a thumbs up. Zeke clears his throat. Charlotte and the other girl look up at him.)

Charlotte: Oh, hey, Ezekiel. What’s up?

Zeke: W-Well, uh… I, uh, just wanted to… (The camera cuts to see the teacher of the classroom walk in as he addresses the class.)

Teacher: Sorry I’m late, class. Had to help the culinary teacher with a taste test. Some of those students can’t follow recipes. Everyone get your homework from last night out. (We cut back to Charlotte as she looks up to where Zeke was. We see he’s now gone as we pan to see him sitting next to Bill, still blushing.) So, let’s start with question one…

(A flash of white appears as we go back to the present day. A now-repaired Halberd is seen flying through the air, with metal surrounding many areas of the ship. A crack is seen on the mask on the front of the ship. We cut to Master Mind on the bridge of the ship.)

Master Mind: I see your ship has been repaired. (The camera pans around to see Meta Knight and Bowser Jr..)

Meta Knight: It wasn’t easy. Luckily, we had no need for the Egg Carrier anymore.

Bowser Jr.: (Downtrodden.) Yeah.

Master Mind: (To Meta Knight.) I trust that you and your fellow warriors have been fruitful on your journeys?

Meta Knight: (Nods.) We have made ourselves known. However, Nightmare ran into one of yours.

Master Mind: One of those brainwashed heroes?

Meta Knight: Attacked a swordsman he was after. He didn’t stay to check if he finished the job. If he escaped your brainwashing-

Master Mind: It doesn’t matter. Your work has been excellent. I was right to put my trust in you, Meta Knight. You may return to your quarters. (Meta Knight and Bowser Jr. start walking back towards the back end of the Halberd.) Not you, Koopa Prince. I have something to ask of you. (Bowser Jr. looks towards Meta Knight who nods. Bowser Jr. walks towards Master Mind.)

Bowser Jr.: Yessir?

Master Mind: You look sad. What is the matter?

Bowser Jr.: Is it true what the princess said about my papa? Is he…

Master Mind: No, no. Your father is a valuable member of my team. He’s out there doing very important work.

Bowser Jr.: Oh… (Smiling a bit.) Okay.

Master Mind: Now, I must ask you, do you have any siblings?

Boswer Jr.: Yeah, seven of ‘em! Why?

Master Mind: Perhaps we should get in touch with them. (We cut to another shot of the Halberd as we see a small portal open on it. Master Mind and Bowser Jr. walk through it.)

End of Episode

Chapter 18: Primal Carnage

(The episode begins inside a densely-packed forest. We see a group of two Omanyte (Pokemon) and a Kabuto (Pokemon) next to a small stream.)

Omanyte: Omanyte! (We then see Ayla (Chrono) quickly sprint past the screen on all fours. The camera zooms in through the trees as sunlight suddenly pours through. We see a large group of multicolored Yoshis perusing around a large field area in the forest. We see a light blue Yoshi and a pink Yoshi standing next to a pile of fruit. The pink one is holding a Bunger (Bugsnax).)

Bunger: Bunger… (The Yoshi drops it and it scuttles away. The camera pans out to reveal Yoshi [the green one] as the light blue and pink Yoshi wave at him.

Yoshis: Yoshi! (Yoshi waves back.)

Yoshi: Yosh! Yosh! (Yoshi turns around and walks through the makeshift Yoshi village. Multiple colors of Yoshi walk around behind him. Some talk to each other and some are carrying fruit. Yoshi eventually walks up to a lone apple on the ground.) Huh? (He stares at it.) Woah! (Yoshi rears his head and sticks out his tongue.) Blum!

???: Bwah! (We see a Rabbid (Rayman) suddenly leap forward and grab the apple.) Bwahahaha! (We see another Rabbid stick his head out of the bushes.) Hah! (The Rabbid holding the apple chucks it to the other one. He catches it as they run away from the Yoshi village.)

Yoshi: (Angrily.) Hrrrrrn! (The other Yoshis look at Yoshi as he suddenly sprints away in pursuit of the Rabbid. We cut to Yoshi racing through the forest as he leaps onto a large, sleeping creature. Yoshi jumps off of it and continues his pursuit as the creature wakes up, revealing himself to be Gnasty Gnorc.)

Gnasty: Huh?! Who did that?! (He looks around, but Yoshi has already left.) Hrm… (Gnasty gets up, puts on his helmet, and picks up his hammer. He then leaves towards where Yoshi came from.) Huh? (Gnasty looks through the trees and sees the happy Yoshis in their village.) It can’t be… dragons?! (Gnasty gets angry and storms into the village, getting the attention of the Yoshis. A few of them walk up to Gnasty.)

Yoshi #1: (Happily.) Yoshi!

Gnasty: I’ve had just enough of you dragons! (He holds up his hammer as green light emanates from it.) And with no Spyro to save you… (The Yoshis in front of Gnasty are suddenly crystallized, no longer able to move. The other Yoshis begin to panic as they crystallize also.) I’m unstoppable! (All the Yoshis become crystallized as Gnasty points his hammer at the Yoshis’ fruit pile.) As for my army… (He shoots a green beam at the fruit pile as the screen goes white. When it turns back, the fruit have all turned into Gnorcs (Spyro the Dragon).) Hahahahaha! (We see a Covenant ship flying towards the ground in the sky behind Gnasty.)

(We cut away to another spot in the forest. We see a large group of male and female Sheargrubs (Pikmin) begin burrowing in the ground as Agumon runs past them. We see Agumon run up a hill and jump down, hitting his fist into the ground. He then gets up and looks around.)

Agumon: Ah? (He begins walking more leisurely as the camera zooms into the trees behind him. We cut away again to see Regina walking through the forest with a pistol at her side. A rustling sound is heard behind her as she points her pistol behind her. A group of three Bulbmin (Pikmin) scurry out of the bush and run away from where Regina is.)

Regina: I need to get out of here. This forest is messing with me. (She continues prowling through the forest. A screech is suddenly heard as Regina stops again. Nothing happens.) Who’s there?! (She looks around, still seeing nothing.) Nothing? (Suddenly, three Manic Heads (Jak & Daxter) jump out at Regina and start circling her while screeching.) Gah! (Regina looks back and forth between all the Manic Heads trying to decide which one to shoot. One suddenly pounces at her as she fires her gun, missing the Manic Head. We cut back to Agumon as the gunshots ring out.)

Agumon: That doesn’t sound good. (Agumon runs towards the gunfire. We cut back to Regina on the ground as the Manic Heads continue to circle her. One grunts and lunges at her.) Spitfire Blast! (A fireball hits the Manic Head in midair as it flies back into a tree, lying limp on the ground.)

Regina: (Looking back.) Huh? (She sees Agumon.) Another dinosaur? And it talks?

Agumon: (To the Manic Heads.) This is my turf! Get outta here! (The Manic Heads grunt at Agumon as they suddenly rush towards him.) Claw Attack! (Agumon swipes a Manic Head away with his claws. The other Manic Head swipes his claws at Agumon as he’s pushed away onto his back.) Ow… (We cut back to Regina as she shoots at the Manic Head that attacked Agumon. Four bullets go into its back as it falls over, dead.)

Regina: Another one down. (The last Manic Head tackles Regina as they both fall onto the ground. The Manic Head swipes into Regina three times. Regina then kicks the Manic Head off of her as she readies her gun. The Manic Head screeches again and begins charging towards Regina.)

Agumon: Pepper Breath! (We see a plume of fire flow into the Manic Head as the camera pans to reveal Agumon creating the flame. The Manic Head falls over.) That’ll take care of them. (We hear a gun cocking sound as Agumon looks over to Regina, now pointing her gun at Agumon.)

Regina: Give me one reason why I shouldn’t blast your f*cking head wide open.

Agumon: I helped you.

Regina: I haven’t had good luck with dinosaurs before.

Agumon: Dinosaur? I’m a Digimon. Agumon to be exact. (Neither of them speak.) I’m not going to hurt you. (Regina puts her gun down.)

Regina: Agumon, huh? (Agumon nods.) I’m Regina. (She gets up.) I’m trying to get out of here.

Agumon: Maybe I can help you. (Agumon smiles.) Follow me! (Agumon runs off. Regina shrugs and sighs.)

Regina: Might as well. (She follows Agumon.)

(We cut to the Covenant ship from before landing in a small clearing in the forest. Ratchet, Clank, the Arbiter, and Earthworm Jim come out of it and look around.)

Arbiter: So, this is the planet where you battled this Master Mind.

Ratchet: Yeah, but, uh… (The camera pans around to see the trees surrounding them.) It looked a bit different last time we were here. (The camera focuses back on Ratchet.) I don’t think we landed in the right place, Clank.

Clank: Perhaps not. Let us continue our search on the ship. (Our heroes turn around to face the ship to see a group of five Rabbids taking parts from it.)

Rabbid: Bwahahaha!

Jim: Woah, Nelly! They’re scrapping the ship! (The Rabbids continue laughing as they dart off into the forest. Two other Rabbids, one holding an apple, push past our heroes and follow the other Rabbids. Yoshi also runs up and stops when he sees the other heroes. He waves his arms rapidly.)

Yoshi: Yoshi! Yoshi Yoshi Yoshiiiii!

Jim: Anyone understand what this guy is saying?

Clank: (Gets off of Ratchet’s back.) Allow me.

Yoshi: Yoshi Yoshi!

Clank: Mhm.

Yoshi: Yoshiiiiii!

Clank: Oh dear.

Arbiter: What is it saying?

Clank: Those creatures took fruit from his village.

Arbiter: So it seems we have a common enemy. If we cannot get those parts back, we will not be able to pursue Master Mind at a sufficient pace. (We see Clank get back onto Ratchet's back.)

Ratchet: We better get going then. (Our heroes run off. The camera zooms back to see a Gnorc watching from the shadows.)

(We cut to a large group of Rabbids partying in the forest. Piles of junk surround them. One Rabbid holds up Eddie (Mega Man) and shakes him. Another Rabbid holds up a glass as the Rabbid pours juice out of Eddie into the glass.)

Rabbid: Bwaaaah! (The Rabbid pours the drink into his mouth. A rustling sound is suddenly heard.) Bwah? (All the Rabbids go silent. Suddenly, an egg flies through the air and hits a Rabbid in the face. It goes into slow motion as the Rabbid falls backwards.)

Rabbid #2: (In slow motion.) Bwaaaaaaaah… (The other Rabbids look to where the egg came from to see our heroes crash through the forest into the area.)

Jim: Expecting us?

Ratchet: Give us back our ship parts!

Yoshi: Yoshi! (A Rabbid points at our heroes.)

Rabbid: Bwaaaaaaah! (All the other Rabbids begin screaming.)

Rabbids: Bwaaaaaaaaah! (The Rabbids surround our heroes. Ratchet hits some away with his Omni-Wrench as Jim shoots at others with his laser gun.)

Jim: There’s too many of ‘em! We’ll never make it!

Ratchet: These guys aren’t too strong. (A plunger suddenly hits Ratchet in the head, knocking him over. He gets up with the plunger stuck to his face.) Aw, c’mon! (We cut to the Arbiter shooting at Rabbids with his assault rifle. The camera pans to see Yoshi eat a Rabbid. He turns it into an egg. We then see five Rabbids running towards Yoshi. Yoshi throws the egg as it ricochets off of all five Rabbids. As it hits the fifth one, a 1-up sound plays.)

Yoshi: Yosh Yosh! (A Rabbid throws small punches while running towards Jim. Jim just kicks him over.)

Jim: They were powerful foes, but thankfully we were able to pull through. (Ratchet and the Arbiter walk over to a junk pile to see the ship parts, destroyed.)

Arbiter: Are they repairable?

Ratchet: I’m sorry. I don’t think they are. At least not by us.

Arbiter: We will need to find another way.

Yoshi: Yoshi!

Clank: He says there are other Yoshis like him that may help us.

Ratchet: (To Yoshi.) Can you lead the way? (Yoshi nods as a Gnorc suddenly leaps in and hits Yoshi with a club.)

Gnorc: Wrahaha! Looks like one of you got away. (Jim suddenly shoots the Gnorc in the back and it falls down.)

Jim: Weak! (The Gnorc slowly gets up to see Ratchet and the Arbiter pointing their guns at him.)

Ratchet: What do you mean one got away?

Gnorc: Heh. That dragon friend of yours has a lot of friends. Once my boss got a look at ‘em, it was all over. They’re all statues now. Looks like one got away though. (Yoshi gets a scared expression on his face.)

Yoshi: Wawawawawawawa! (He flails his arms around.)

Ratchet: (To the Arbiter.) We gotta help them.

Arbiter: (Thinks it over.) Yes, you are right. But first… (He shoots the Gnorc in the head, killing it.) Let us be on our way. (To Yoshi.) Lead us. (Yoshi nods and runs off. Everyone else follows.)

(We cut to Gnasty Gnorc sitting on a makeshift stone throne as Gnorcs patrol the area. One Gnorc walks up to Gnasty.)

Gnorc: The creature is ready to do our bidding.

Gnasty: Excellent. (Gnasty holds up his hammer.) This was way easier than I thought it would be! (Gunshots are suddenly heard as Gnasty looks up.) What’s that?! (The camera pans to see the Arbiter and the others approaching Gnasty. Any Gnorcs that approach them are shot down. Our heroes stop walking.)

Arbiter: You must be the leader here.

Gnasty: You would be correct. Impressed with my collection?

Jim: It’s okay, but you’re missing one. (Yoshi takes the center as he approaches Gnasty.)

Yoshi: Hrrrrrn! (Gnasty’s jaw drops.)

Gnasty: Impossible! How did you get away?

Ratchet: Surrender now, you green wart! We won't hold back!

Gnasty: (Smiles.) Well then, neither will I. (Yelling.) Bring out my champion. (A loud footstep is suddenly heard.)

Ratchet: Huh?

Yoshi: Wah! (We see Dino Piranha (Super Mario) come up from behind Gnasty and screech. Spit dribbles from its mouth. We cut to Agumon and Regina walking through the forest as they too hear the screech. Regina readies her gun.)

Regina: Something’s nearby.

Agumon: C’mon! Nothing we can’t handle. (Agumon runs off.)

Regina: Right… (Regina follows Agumon.)

(We cut back to Dino Piranha as he slowly steps towards our heroes. Ratchet, the Arbiter, and Jim all shoot at Dino Piranha as it screeches and spins around. The tail spins towards our heroes as Yoshi and Ratchet duck. The Arbiter and Jim are hit away.)

Arbiter/Jim: Grah!/Aye!

Gnasty: Hahahaha! Try all you might, your puny weapons are no match!

Ratchet: Uh oh…

Yoshi: Owowowo! (Footsteps are suddenly heard as Regina and Agumon run in next to Ratchet and Yoshi.)

Regina: (Shooting.) Let’s make this thing go extinct!

Agumon: Spitfire Blast! (Agumon spits fireballs at Dino Piranha. The fireballs seem to hurt it. Dino Piranha screams out in pain.)

Gnasty: What?! (The Arbiter and Jim rush towards Gnasty.) Fine! Have it your way! (The Arbiter gets out his Plasma Sword and swings at Gnasty. Gnasty blocks it with his hammer and knocks the Arbiter back a bit. Jim jumps onto Gnasty.)

Jim: Heeeeere’s Jimmy!

Gnasty: Enough! (Gnasty grabs Jim and throws him onto the ground. He then turns and hits the Arbiter in the head with his hammer. We cut back to Dino Piranha as he rampages around, chasing our heroes. He jumps into the air and knocks everyone down as he lands.)

Ratchet: Our weapons are useless against that thing!

Regina: Weapons maybe. But not… (She turns to Agumon.) We need more fire power.

Agumon: Leave it to me! (Agumon gets up and a light envelops him. We see him digivolve into Greymon.)

Greymon: Raaaaagh! (Greymon charges at Dino Piranha and knocks it away with his horns. Dino Piranha then spins around and whips Greymon with his tail.) Urgh! (We cut back to Gnasty as the Arbiter charges towards him.)

Arbiter: Graaaaah! (Gnasty points his hammer at the Arbiter as he shoots green magic at him. The Arbiter suddenly stops and becomes crystallized.)

Gnasty: Gwahaha!

Jim: (To Gnasty.) What did you do to him, you monster?! (He aims his laser gun at Gnasty, but he’s suddenly hit by magic and becomes crystallized too. We cut back to Greymon swiping at Dino Piranha with his claws. Dino Piranha then headbutts Greymon, knocking him onto the ground. Dino Piranha begins approaching the knocked-down Greymon.)

Regina: (Shooting at Gnorcs around them.) We gotta do something. Agumon isn’t getting up.

Ratchet: Any bright ideas? (Yoshi suddenly gets an idea as he eats a Gnorc running at him. He turns the Gnorc into an egg and aims it at Dino Piranha.)

Yoshi: Ha! (He throws the egg as it hits Dino Piranha in the head. He stumbles back, giving Greymon time to get up.)

Greymon: Raaaah! (Greymon runs over to Dino Piranha and forces its mouth open. Greymon then spits a plume of fire into Dino Piranha’s mouth as it screeches. All the petals fall off its head as it falls to the ground. Agumon then turns back to normal.)

Agumon: I did it! (Agumon is suddenly hit with magic and crystallizes. Ratchet, Yoshi, and Regina look over to Gnasty.)

Gnasty: A good effort, but not enough to stop me! (He shoots more magic and crystallizes Ratchet. He then shoots again and hits Regina. He aims for Yoshi who jumps out of the way and hides behind Ratchet, seeing that Clank is safe from crystallization.)

Clank: Hello there.

Gnasty: Hide all you want! It won’t stop my reign!

Yoshi: (Whispering to Clank.) Yoshi Yoshi. Yosh.

Clank: Hmmm, that just might work. Just be gentle. (We cut to Gnasty slowly approaching Yoshi.)

Gnasty: The age of the dragon is over! (Yoshi suddenly jumps out of cover and throws an egg at Gnasty. The egg hits Gnasty’s hammer, breaking it and releasing Clank from the egg.)

Clank: Oh, goodness.

Gnasty: Nooooo! (The magic leaves the hammer as all the Yoshis, as well as our heroes, break free from their crystals. All the other Yoshis gather around Yoshi, all looking angry.)

Yoshi: Yoshi! (Yoshi points at Gnasty as all the Yoshi charge. Gnasty screams as all the Yoshis trample over him.)

Gnasty: Noooooo! Draaaagooooons! (A cloud of dust comes from the Yoshis’ shoes as the camera cuts. We cut to the Yoshis carrying away a now damaged Gnasty into the forest. Our Yoshi meets with the rest of the heroes as he talks to Clank.)

Yoshi: Yosh Yoshi!

Ratchet: What’s he saying, Clank?

Clank: While he isn’t able to fix our ship, he did say he will accompany us on our journey to find Master Mind.

Regina: And this guy is responsible for everything that’s been happening?

Clank: Precisely.

Yoshi: Yoshi Yoshi!

Clank: He is eternally grateful for us saving his people. He wants to help us as much as we did for him.

Arbiter: We will accept any help offered.

Agumon: Then what are we waiting for? We have a world to save!

Ratchet: (To Yoshi.) Mind leading us outta here? (Yoshi nods.)

Yoshi: Yoshiiiiii! (Yoshi runs off and the others run after him. We hear the other Yoshis singing along to the tune of Yoshi’s Story as the screen goes black.)

End of Episode

Chapter 19: Get Hoppin'

(The episode begins looking at a sandy beach with a volcano in the background. The ocean laps at the sand as we see one of the palm trees on the beach transform into an Exeggutor (Pokemon) and begin walking across the beach.)

Exeggutor: Exeeeegg! (We cut away to a spot in the ocean. A fishing bobber plunks into the water as the camera pans around to the beach to see who’s fishing. We see Big the cat sitting in the sands, fishing rod in hand, patiently sitting down and fishing.)

Big: Aaaaaah… (The bobber suddenly drops down into the water. We cut back to Big as he begins reeling in whatever bit.) Something’s biting! (Big reels in a Klaptrap (Donkey Kong) as it lands in his arms.) Wha… huh? (The Klaptrap bites Big’s finger as it jumps out of his arms and scuttles back into the sea.) Ow! You’re mean. (Big holds his finger. We cut to a grassy area by the beach as what appears to be a large frog hops by. We cut to a front view of this frog as it’s revealed to be Frogger.)

Frogger: This place sure is odd. Nothing like Firefly Swamp, that’s for sure. (The camera pans to see Big on the beach, in view of Frogger.) Maybe this guy can help me out. (Frogger begins hopping towards Big. We cut to Big as Frogger hops behind him.) Hey, mister! Can ya help a frog out?

Big: Huh? (He turns around and looks down at Frogger. We cut to a POV of Big as he looks at him. The image of Frogger begins flashing back and forth between him and Froggy (Sonic the Hedgehog). The image finally settles back on Frogger as we leave Big’s POV.) Froggy? Is that you?

Frogger: Close. It’s Frogger actually.

Big: You’re looking different, buddy. (Big begins approaching Frogger with his arms stretched out. Frogger backs up, afraid.)

Frogger: H-Hey! Whaddya think you’re doing?

Big: We gotta get back home, Froggy. Everyone must be worried about us.

Frogger: I don’t know what you’re talking about, but I gotta go! (Frogger begins hopping off quickly.)

Big: Froggyyyy! Come back! (Big gives chase. We cut to Frogger jumping across the grassy area from before. Suddenly, a purple blur flies across the screen and grabs Frogger. Big stops.) Wha? (We see that the purple blur is actually an Arbok (Pokemon) that has wrapped its tail around Frogger.)

Arbok: Chaaaaaaarbok!

Frogger: Hey! What’s the big idea!

???: Prepare for trouble!

???: And make it double! (Jessie (Pokemon) and James (Pokemon) suddenly jump out in the open to join Arbok, striking poses in the process.)

Jessie: To protect the world from devastation!

James: To unite all peoples within our nation!

Jessie: To denounce the evils of truth and love!

James: To extend our reach to the stars above!

Jessie: (Holding out a pokeball.) Jessie!

James: (Doing the same.) James!

Jessie: Team Rocket blasts out at the speed of light!

James: Surrender now, or prepare to fight! (AN: This version of Jessie and James is different than the version seen in the Pokemon anime.)

Big: Wowee. You two are real fancy.

James: You can say that again.

Frogger: (Trying to escape from Arbok.) Let me go! Whaddya want with me!

Jessie: Not only are you a brand new Pokemon, but you’re a talking one at that.

James: Our boss will jump for joy once we bring you in. (He pauses.) And… uh… once we find him.

Big: Heyyyy, you’re not gonna take Froggy away from me.

James: (To Jessie.) Should we take the fat cat with us?

Jessie: Are you gonna carry him?

James: Good point. (James throws out a pokeball.) Go, Weezing! (The pokeball opens and a Weezing (Pokemon) escapes from it.)

Weezing: Weezing! Weezing! (The Weezing floats in front of Big as Big looks around, hoping for someone to come in and save him.)

James: Weezing! Use Smog!

Weezing: Weezing! (Poisonous gas escapes from Weezing and surrounds Big. Big begins coughing as he backs up.)

Jessie: Let’s go, James.

James: Gladly. (Jessie and James start off towards the volcano in the distance. Arbok and Weezing follow, with Frogger still captured.)

Frogger: Hey! Let me go! Heeeeeelp! (Big steps out of the poisonous gas, watching Jessie and James run off.)

Big: I must save Froggy! (Big runs after Team Rocket.)

(We cut to a different part of the same island, the volcano still looming in the background. A large boat is seen docking near an island town. We cut to the dock as Edward, Vyse, and Subject Delta walk onto it.)

Edward: I’ll grab us some supplies.

Vyse: What should we do?

Edward: Talk with the locals. Maybe they’ll have some information for us. (Edward walks off.)

Vyse: (To Subject Delta.) Welp, let’s go, big guy.

Subject Delta: Owogh. (Vyse and Subject Delta also walk off. They spot a crowd gathered around near a couple of the town’s buildings. Murmurings are heard from the crowd.)

Vyse: Let’s check out what’s going on over there. (They walk over to the crowd to see them all surrounding the Professor (Spyro the Dragon).)

Professor: Settle down, everybody. Settle down.

Townsperson #1: How can we settle down!? This whole village is gonna be gone if we don’t do something!

Professor: Yes… well…

Townseperson #2: What’re we gonna do?! What’s the answer?!

Professor: Well… uh… (The townspeople start becoming angry as Vyse and Subject Delta run up in front of the Professor. Vyse holds up his hands towards the townsfolk.)

Vyse: Woah, woah, woah! Let’s all calm down. What’s the problem here?

Professor: Well… a… um… dragon has found its way into the volcano on the island.

Vyse: A dragon?

Professor: Yes, and this dragon has the capabilities to make the volcano erupt at such a power that this entire island may fall victim to its lava.

Vyse: So everything will be destroyed… (Vyse looks towards the volcano, which has smoke billowing out of it.)

Professor: Unless we can find a way to get rid of that dragon, I’m afraid so. (To himself.) And I don’t suppose this dragon is anything like Spyro.

Vyse: (Holding up his sword.) We’ll take care of this dragon!

Subject Delta: Woghhhh…

Professor: R-Really?!

Vyse: You can count on us. (To Subject Delta.) C’mon, let’s go! (Vyse and Subject Delta run up to Edward, who is now next to the ship. Edward turns to the others.)

Edward: The ship has been loaded with more rations. We should be good to take off.

Vyse: We can’t leave yet. A dragon has made its way into the volcano, and unless we do something, this whole island will be destroyed. (He turns towards the volcano.) And I’m gonna do something.

Edward: Aye, then we better get going. (Edward begins walking towards the volcano.)

Vyse: (Surprised.) You’re coming with us?

Edward: (Turning back.) You’re not going alone. (Vyse smiles.) I don’t know how much I can do against a dragon, but I can’t stand back and let an island burn. Besides, it might lead to some answers. (Our three heroes start off towards the volcano.)

(We cut to a volcanic-looking area. It appears to be some kind of cliffside made out of dark rock. Jessie and James are seen sitting down and resting while Frogger is seen tied up with rope next to them, looking sad.)

Jessie: Cheer up, little froggy. You’ll be very happy once you meet our boss. (Frogger says nothing.)

James: It’s not every day you meet a talking Pokemon. Sometimes I think Meowth is trying to talk to us.

Jessie: Don’t be silly, James. (We cut to see Big hiding behind a large rock formation, watching Jessie and James further down the cliff path. He pulls out his fishing rod.)

Big: Don’t worry, Froggy. I’ll save you. (Big casts his line towards Frogger. The hook wedges itself into the ropes holding Frogger.) I did it. (Big begins reeling Frogger back. Frogger looks up surprised as Jessie and James immediately notice Frogger being reeled away.)

Jessie: Someone’s trying to nab our Pokemon!

James: (Pulling out pokeball.) That’s our job! Go, Meowth! (James throws the pokeball behind the rock formation Big is hiding behind. A Meowth pops out.)

Meowth: Meeeooowth!

Big: (Looking at the Meowth suspiciously.) Kitty?

James: Use Payday! (The Meowth begins firing coins rapidly at Big, pushing him back. He falls over next to the tied up Frogger.)

Big: Woah! (To Frogger.) Hi, Froggy.

Frogger: (Disappointed.) My hero… (Jessie and James begin running towards Big and Frogger. Suddenly, Frogger stretches his tongue above Team Rocket towards a large boulder above the path. He uses his tongue to pull it down. It lands between our heroes and Team Rocket.)

Jessie: A boulder?!

James: Froggy’s tongue is strong.

Frogger: (To Big.) Untie me!

Big: Oh… okay. (Big begins untying Frogger. We cut to Jessie and James going around each side of the boulder, now joined by Arbok and Weezing. We see that Frogger is now untied as Team Rocket and their three Pokemon have surrounded them.)

Jessie: We were being nice before. Now you’ve made us angry.

James: Now face the wrath of Team Rocket! (To Weezing.) Weezing! Use Acid!

Weezing: Weezing! (Weezing shoots acid towards Big and Frogger. They jump in opposite directions as the acid lands between them.)

Jessie: (Pointing at Big.) Arbok! Use Wrap!

Arbok: Chaaarbok! (The Arbok wraps its tail around Big, immobilizing him. Arbok looks directly in Big’s eyes.)

Big: Nice snakey. Nice snakey. (We cut to Frogger hopping quickly away from Weezing. He suddenly stops as Meowth jumps in front of him.)

Meowth: Meowth Meowth! (Frogger looks at the two obstacles he’s now between.)

Jessie/James: Meowth! Payday attack!/Weezing! Use your Acid! (They look at each other.) What?/Huh? (Weezing and Meowth both do their attacks. Frogger does a super hop as he soars over both attacks. Instead, Weezing and Meowth hit each other and they both fall over, fainted.)

Frogger: (To Team Rocket.) Nice teamwork. (He hops towards Big. Jessie hits James in the back of the head.)

Jessie: You idiot! This is all your fault!

James: My fault?! Weezing would've gotten the job done if you hadn't gotten in the way! (We cut to Big and Arbok as Frogger hops over to them. Big begins flexing as Arbok’s tail begins to loosen its grip on Big. Arbok is suddenly flung off of Big as Big’s arms fly out.)

Big: (To Arbok.) You’ve been a bad snakey. (He grabs Arbok by the tail and begins swinging him wildly. We see Jessie and James standing next to the fainted Weezing and Meowth, still arguing. They both look over at Big swinging Arbok.)

Jessie/James: Huh? (Big lets go of Arbok as it slams into Team Rocket and their Pokemon. They fly off of the mountain.) Looks like Team Rocket is blasting off again! (We hear a distant splash. We cut back to Big and Frogger.)

Frogger: Uh… thanks for the help.

Big: No problem, Froggy.

Frogger: Look, I don’t know who Froggy is, but my name is Frogger. Frog-ger! Got that?

Big: (He pauses.) Oh… (He points at himself.) My name is Big. Can you help me find my friend? His name is Froggy.

Frogger: (Smiles.) Now that’s something I can do. (They continue down the path.)

(We cut to inside the volcano. Lava is bubbling far down below as a Fire Snake (Super Mario) arcs out of the lava and lands back in it. We see Edward, Vyse, and Subject Delta reach the top of the volcano, which has a rocky terrain, but is still large enough to walk through.)

Edward: So, where’s this dragon we were warned about?

Vyse: We were told that he was here. (The beating of wings is heard as a monstrous roar echoes through the area. Our heroes draw their weapons as a dragon (Rayman) lands on the volcano. It roars at them.) The dragon… (More roars are suddenly heard as two more dragons land on the volcano.)

Edward: (To Vyse.) I thought you said there was only one?

Vyse: (Nervous.) I thought there was. (The first dragon takes flight again as it breathes fire at our heroes. Our heroes dive out of the way as Edward begins shooting at the dragon. The bullets barely do anything as the dragon begins swooping back around. We cut to Big and Frogger reaching the top of the volcano, right behind the other two dragons.)

Frogger: Are those d-d-d-dragons?!

Big: Don’t worry, Frogger. I’ll take care of those big lizards. (Big casts the line of his fishing pole at one of the dragons’ tails. It wedges itself into the tail. We cut to the dragon’s eyes widening as he suddenly takes flight. We see Big fly off with it, as he’s still holding the pole.) Woah!

Frogger: Big! (The other dragon looks back at Frogger and snorts.) Hehe… hey there. (The dragon takes off and starts flying towards Frogger, who hops away quickly.) Heeeeeelp! (We cut to Edward as he watches Frogger hopping away from the dragon. As the dragon begins to breathe a plume of fire towards Frogger, Edward dives in and pushes himself and Frogger out of the way.) Heh… thanks. (We hear Big screaming from above.) Uh… can you help my friend? (Edward looks up as we cut to Big violently swinging around above them.)

Big: Heeeeeeelp meeeeeeee! (Big lets go of the fishing pole as he’s flung from the sky. We cut to Vyse and Subject Delta cornered by another dragon.)

Vyse: Stay back! (Subject Delta shoots electricity at the dragon. This damages it and makes it angry as it snarls at them. Suddenly, Big lands on the dragon’s back, smashing the dragon into the ground close below, and knocking it out. The dragon’s tongue lolls out of its mouth as Big jumps off of it onto the ground, holding his head.)

Big: Ow… my head is spinning. (We cut to the other two dragons flying around the area. We see the one without the fishing pole charge towards Edward and Frogger. The dragon with the fishing pole is farther above flying the other direction.)

Edward: Here it comes… (Frogger thinks for a moment.)

Frogger: I’ve got an idea! (He hops off towards the large hole of the volcano. He suddenly jumps off the side of the hole and unleashes his tongue. The tongue sticks onto the fishing pole still dangling from the dragon. The sudden weight of Frogger pulls the dragon down in front of the one charging at Edward and Frogger. The charging dragon breathes a plume of fire, which now hits the dragon in front of it. We see the dragon drop into the volcano as Frogger lands on the other side of the volcano. He reels his tongue back in, bringing Big’s fishing pole with it.) Phew. Wasn’t sure that would work. (The last dragon lands on the volcano and breathes a large plume of fire at Vyse, Subject Delta, and Big. They’re all hit with a bit of fire as they rush away.)

Big: Hot hot hot!

Edward: Avast ye! (We see Edward charge at the dragon, plunging his sword into its side. The dragon roars in pain. We see Frogger hit the dragon in the face with his tongue. The dragon roars at Frogger, pushing him far back.)

Frogger: Whaaaaa! (We see Big running back towards the dragon. He stops as he notices a large boulder near him.)

Big: Hmmmmm… (We see the dragon start readying another plume of fire. Just as he’s about to breathe fire, the boulder is thrown into its mouth. We pan around to see Big.) Hope you like rock candy, Mr. Dragon. Hehehe. (As the dragon tries to breathe fire, it gets stuck in its throat. The rock explodes and the dragon is blown far back. We see it land in the ocean below.)

(We cut back to Edward’s ship. A large crowd of people is seen cheering next to it as all five of our heroes are seen on the ship. Vyse, Big, and Frogger wave at the people below.)

Frogger: (To Edward.) Thanks for letting us join your crew.

Edward: It’s the least I could do. You did save our lives.

Frogger: I guess we did. (To Big.) Hear that, big guy? We’re heroes!

Big: Yipee! Froggy will be so happy when I find him. (We see Edward take the wheel of the ship.)

Edward: Aye. Now, let’s get going. We still have to get home.

Frogger: (Saluting.) Aye aye, Captain!

Subject Delta: Awogh… (We see the ship take off as the cheers of the townspeople echo out across the water.)

End of Episode

Chapter 20: Unfounded Revenge

(AN: This episode contains heavy spoilers for Mother 3. If you wish not to be spoiled, maybe skip this episode until you beat the game.)

(The episode begins in the forest at the end of the “A Terrible Fate” episode of New Game. The camera is looking down upon Majora’s Mask with the body of King Dedede seen laying on the ground not too far from it. A figure slowly walks up to Majora as it picks up the mask. The camera flips around to see that this figure is Skull Kid.)

Skull Kid: Y-You? No… No it can’t be you. (The voice of Majora emanates from the mask.)

Majora: I remember you. You’re that lonely Skull Kid. The one from Termina.

Skull Kid: How did you find me? (Skull Kid looks around.)

Majora: You found me, not the other way around. (Skull Kid drops the mask.) Where are those two fairies that followed you around? Did they abandon you?

Skull Kid: No… they… they’re just lost. I’ll find them.

Majora: You’ll never find them on your own. (Skull Kid begins to leave.) Not without me. (Skull Kid stops and slowly turns around. He starts towards the mask.)

Skull Kid: You’ll help me? (He stops.) How can I trust you?

Majora: I’m your friend, Skull Kid. I want to help you. Then we can return to Termina as heroes. Like the boy clad in green. (Skull Kid walks towards the mask and picks it up again.) You like him, don’t you?

Skull Kid: Y-Yeah. Hee hee hee. He was fun. (Skull Kid puts on the mask. He drops to his knees and grabs at his face as he begins to writhe around. He completely drops to the ground before going limp. He then begins floating as movement slowly comes back to his limbs. Skull Kid and Majora are now one.) Hee hee hee hee hee. You really are an idiot. (The camera zooms in on the eyes of Majora’s Mask.) Now, let’s have some fun. (Everything fades away except for the eyes of the mask. Those slowly fade out too as we cut away.)

(We cut to a forest path as we see a pair of red tennis shoes running down it. The camera pans up to see Lucas running and panting as he frantically looks behind him. The camera pans to see a herd of Tauros (Pokemon) stampeding towards him.)

Lucas: Heeeeeelp! (Lucas dives into the forest brush, puts his hands over his head, and closes his eyes as the Tauros continue running through the forest. Lucas slowly opens his eyes. He then sees the tail of a snake.) R-Rope Snake? (Lucas begins towards the snake as it turns towards him, revealing itself to be a Coily (Q*bert). It hisses at Lucas.) Ah! (Lucas runs back to the forest path. He walks down it.) Boney?! Dad?! Anybody?! (Tears well up in Lucas’ eyes as he sits on the ground. He takes his Franklin Badge out of his pocket.)

???: What’s wrong? Why so sad? (Lucas looks around to see Skull Kid floating upside down behind him. Lucas looks afraid of Skull Kid as Skull Kid’s body goes right side up before his head follows. Skull Kid floats onto the ground and walks towards Lucas.)

Lucas: Who are you? (Skull Kid walks around Lucas, studying him. His eyes land on the Franklin Badge.)

Skull Kid: I like your badge. Do you wanna trade?

Lucas: N-No… my dad gave it to me.

Skull Kid: Dad?

Lucas: Yeah. Like family. Dad… (He pauses.) mom… (He pauses again.) brother…

Skull Kid: Brother… (As tears well up in Lucas’ eyes again, Skull Kid grabs Lucas’ Franklin Badge.)

Lucas: Hey!

Skull Kid: (Floating above Lucas, tossing the Franklin Badge up and down.) Thanks for the badge. Hee hee ha ha ha ha! (Anger flashes across Lucas’ face as he grabs a rock and throws it at Skull Kid. It gently hits Skull Kid in the chest as he stops laughing.) Why’d you do that? I thought we were having fun.

Lucas: Give me my badge back!

Skull Kid: I thought you were just a crybaby, but a buzzkill too? I can fix that. (Skull Kid cries out as a glowing aura emanates from him. Lucas closes his eyes and covers his ears as the camera zooms in on him. The screeching stops as Lucas opens his eyes. The camera zooms out, revealing that Lucas is in a pitch black room. He looks around, not seeing Skull Kid. As the camera pans around, we see a figure with his back to Lucas in the background. Lucas looks behind him.)

Lucas: (He pauses.) Claus? (Lucas approaches Claus (EarthBound) until he’s right behind him.) Claus it’s me… Lucas.

Claus: You lost our badge, Lucas.

Lucas: Huh? (Claus turns around to meet Lucas, no emotion on his face.)

Claus: Our badge, Lucas. The badge that killed me. Why did you let me die, Lucas? (The camera focuses on Lucas.)

Lucas: It… It wasn’t me. It wasn’t. (The camera pans back to Claus to reveal that he is now in his Masked Man outfit from Mother 3.)

Claus: It’s all your fault, Lucas. All your fault.

Lucas: No! No! Stop! (The screen goes white as we go to the real world once again. We now see Lucas in the Masked Man outfit as Skull Kid looms above him.)

Skull Kid: That’s more like it. Now… hee hee hee hee ha ha ha ha! Let’s have some fun!

(We cut to a large grassy field not far from the forest. The camera focuses on Alex Kidd and Murfy (Rayman) as each of them holds their hand out at the other.)

Alex: Jankenpon! (Alex makes scissors with his hand while Murfy makes paper. There’s a short pause before Alex begins jumping up and down.)

Murfy: Wow, you’re a real rock, paper, scissors master!

Alex: You mean Jankenpon?

Murfy: Yeah, whatever ya say, kid. See ya around! (Murfy flies off. Alex also runs off, going towards the forest. The camera goes upwards into a bird’s-eye view. The camera pans away towards a different part of the field as we see Mario, Lloyd, and Erdrick walking through the valley. The camera zooms in as it focuses on them and we leave the bird’s-eye view.)

Erdrick: Any idea where we’re going, Mario?

Mario: I’m-a not sure. When it comes to Master Mind, he-a usually finds me, not-a the reverse.

Lloyd: And you really think this Shadow Crystal is enough to defeat him?

Mario: If we can-a find it. It-a defeated him before, so as-a long as we can find it, it could defeat him again.

Erdrick: And if we can’t find it?

Mario: I don’t-a know… (The camera cuts away as we see Mario’s group from farther away. The camera zooms out as we see Skull Kid watching them. The camera cuts to see his front, revealing the Franklin Badge on his chest.)

Skull Kid: How does that old man know about Master Mind? Why does he want the Shadow Crystal? (Skull Kid touches the Franklin Badge.) No, he’s the red one that Master Mind spoke of. He wants us to leave this new place. (Skull Kid lands on the ground.) Maybe I should speak to him. (We cut back to Mario’s group as they continue walking through the valley.)

???: So you’re looking for the Shadow Crystal? (They all stop and look around, seeing nothing. Lloyd and Erdrick grab their swords.)

Lloyd: Who said that?

???: Over here. (They all look towards the voice, seeing only the valley stretching before them. Suddenly, Majora’s Mask slowly appears out of thin air, with Skull Kid’s body following.) You’re Mario, right?

Mario: How-a do you know my name?

Skull Kid: Master Mind talked a lot about his biggest enemies. I wasn’t with him for long, but I remembered his hatred for you.

Erdrick: You’re one of Master Mind’s goons? You’re just a kid.

Skull Kid: And you’re just dumb adults. Guess I’ll just keep the Shadow Crystal to myself. (Skull Kid floats in midair, lounging, as he laughs and flies backwards towards the forest.)

Mario: Get-a back here! (Mario runs off as Lloyd and Erdrick look shocked.)

Lloyd: Mario, stop! (Lloyd and Erdrick give chase after Mario. We cut back to Alex Kidd talking to Sheila (Spyro the Dragon) as the chase happens in the background. Alex and Sheila turn towards it.)

Sheila: What’s that all about?

Alex: I better check it out. (Alex runs towards the others. To Sheila.) Thanks for the chat! (We cut to Skull Kid floating into the forest as Mario quickly follows.)

Lloyd: Mario! (We see Lloyd and Erdrick enter the forest. They stop and look around as Mario and Skull Kid are nowhere to be seen.) Where’d he go?

Erdrick: Something isn’t right with that kid. (We cut to Mario running through the forest. Skull Kid’s laugh echoes through as Mario loses sight of him.)

Skull Kid: Wow, you sure are stubborn. You must really hate Master Mind if you’re willing to abandon your friends to get him. (Mario looks around, realizing that Lloyd and Erdrick are gone.) You fight that giant turtle, right? Bowser? Yeah, that’s the guy.

Mario: Bowser is-a dead because of Master Mind.

Skull Kid: Oh, boo hoo. He defeated your greatest foe. You should be thankful.

Mario: What Master Mind is doing is not-a right.

Skull Kid: Oh, I see. You wanted to get rid of Bowser yourself. (Skull Kid suddenly appears floating behind Mario.) I think I can make something work.

(We cut back to Lloyd and Erdrick walking through the forest, searching for Mario.)

Erdrick: He shouldn’t have run off like that. He’s gonna get himself hurt. (Rustling is heard around them.)

Lloyd: What’s that? (Suddenly, four Platypunks (Dragon Quest) walk out from hiding and surround Lloyd and Erdrick.)

Erdrick: You gotta be kidding me.

Lloyd: What are these things?

Erdrick: Platypunks. Not too tough. The Platypunks begin waddling towards Lloyd and Erdrick as one scratches at Lloyd.)

Lloyd: Ow! (Lloyd swipes it away with his swords. We then see Erdrick cast Poof as he makes one Platypunk disappear. He then slashes another Platypunk away. The last Platypunk claws at Erdrick, making him stumble back. It begins taunting as Alex Kidd suddenly runs in and punches the Platypunk away.)

Alex: Yaha! (Lloyd turns towards Alex and points his blades at him.) Aaah! Don’t hurt me!

Lloyd: Who are you? (Erdrick stands by Lloyd’s side.)

Alex: Alex. Alex Kidd. I saw you guys were having some trouble, so I followed you here.

Erdrick: This is a dangerous place for a kid.

Alex: I’m not just some kid. I’m 14… (Sheepishly.) In human years at least. But I’m a master of the martial arts! (A beam suddenly hits the ground between our three heroes. Alex jumps in shock as the others look around.)

Erdrick: What now? (Our heroes turn towards the source of the beam as we see Lucas, still dressed as the Masked Man walk towards our heroes. He’s holding a sword, and we see smoke pouring out of his arm cannon.)

Lloyd: More trouble. (No one says anything. Suddenly, Lucas charges towards our heroes. Lloyd and Lucas’ swords begin clashing as Lucas blocks each attack from Lloyd. Erdrick charges at Lucas’ side as Lucas shoots a beam into Erdrick’s chest.)

Erdrick: Gah! (He falls to the ground. Lucas shoves Lloyd away with his blade as Alex suddenly flies in and delivers a kick into Lucas’ side.)

Alex: Yah! (Alex punches Lucas away as Lucas falls and slides across the ground. Lucas then gets up and fires another beam, this time at Alex. It hits, and Alex flips backwards and lands on his front onto the ground.) Ow…

(We cut back to Skull Kid as he begins screeching again, his aura returning. Mario closes his eyes and covers his ears until it stops. Everything is still at first as Mario opens his eyes. Suddenly, a boney claw erupts from the ground.)

Mario: Waaaah! (A skeletal figure digs its way out of the ground, revealing itself to be Dry Bowser (Super Mario). It gives off a demonic roar as it looks straight at Mario.) B-Bowser?!

Skull Kid: Hee hee hee! This will be fun! (Dry Bowser breathes blue fire at Mario. Mario attempts to run away from it, but his overalls catch fire.)

Mario: Yowch ouch ouch! (Mario uses his hat to put out the flame as Dry Bowser jumps over Mario and lands behind him. Dry Bowser swipes at Mario as Mario slides underneath and behind him. He then grabs Dry Bowser’s tail and begins spinning him around. He lets go as Dry Bowser flies through the air and lands on his feet. He takes off his own head and throws it at Mario.) Wah! (Mario ducks as Dry Bowser’s head flies over him. Skull Kid laughs maniacally in the background.)

(We cut back to the fight against Lucas. Lucas slashes at Lloyd, who blocks the attack. Lloyd uses his second sword to hit Lucas away. Lucas shoots another blast at Lloyd, who’s hit in the shoulder.)

Lloyd: Ach! (Lucas then turns towards Erdrick and shoots at him. Erdrick blocks the attacks with his shield as he gets closer to Lucas. Erdrick slashes at Lucas as he jumps backwards. Lucas then slashes Erdrick’s legs, causing him to drop to his knees. Lucas then puts his arm cannon up to Erdrick’s chin. Before he can shoot, we hear Alex’s voice.)

Alex: Stop! (Lucas turns towards the noise as Alex runs in and punches Lucas’ helmet. The helmet shatters as Lucas falls to the ground. There’s a flash of white. As the light fades, we see Lucas laying on the ground, now in his normal clothes. His eyes slowly open. He sees Lloyd, Erdrick, and Alex standing over him.)

Lucas: Ah! Who are you?

Alex: Huh? You just attacked us.

Lucas: I… I did? (He stands up.) All I remember is… (He thinks.) that kid with the strange mask. He stole my badge. He did something to me.

Erdrick: That’s the same kid we’re looking for. Something’s up with him. We need to find him.

Lucas: (Determined.) I’ll help you! You… You said I attacked you, right?

Alex: Yeah, that blaster stung a bit.

Lucas: Blaster? (He shakes his head.) Here. (Lucas holds out his hand to the three.) PK Lifeup! (Psychic energy comes out of Lucas’ hand as it envelops our heroes. Their wounds are healed.)

Lloyd: Thanks. Now, let’s go find Mario! (Our heroes continue running through the forest.)

(We cut back to Mario as Dry Bowser breathes blue fireballs at Mario. Mario dives out of the way as Dry Bowser picks him up. He then throws Mario onto the ground and stomps on him.)

Skull Kid: What’s the matter, Mario? Can’t beat the big, bad Bowser? (Dry Bowser picks up his leg to stomp again as a fireball suddenly hits him in the chest, causing him to fall over. The camera pans to see that the other heroes have arrived, with flames flickering out of Erdrick's outstretched hand. Skull Kid sees Lucas.) You. I see you’ve escaped that spell I put on you. Pretty fun, right?

Lucas: Give me back my badge!

Skull Kid: You’re still such a stick in the mud. (To Dry Bowser.) Get them all! (Dry Bowser starts walking towards them. Lloyd and Alex run towards Skull Kid as Lucas and Erdrick face off against Dry Bowser. Dry Bowser begins breathing fire at our heroes.)

Lucas: PK Shield! (A shield forms around Lucas and Erdrick as the fire flows around it. We cut to Lloyd and Alex as they run towards Skull Kid. Lloyd uses Lightning Thrust on Skull Kid, but the Franklin Badge reflects the lightning back at Lloyd, knocking him to the ground.)

Skull Kid: Hee hee! Nice try. (Alex begins throwing punches towards Skull Kid as he floats backwards. Alex jumps forward and lands a hit on Skull Kid, knocking the Franklin Badge off. We cut back to Erdrick and Lucas as they hit at Dry Bowser, Erdrick with his sword and Lucas with a stick. Dry Bowser jumps up and knocks the heroes down when he lands.)

Lucas: Woah! (We then cut to Mario getting up as he takes out a Rock Mushroom, transforming into Rock Mario. We cut back to Dry Bowser knocking Erdrick down with his tail as Mario, now transformed into a boulder, blasts through Dry Bowser. He then transforms back.)

Mario: Yaha! (Dry Bowser’s head begins flying through the air as it spots Lloyd getting up. It starts flying towards Lloyd as Alex jumps in front of it, delivering an uppercut into the skull, shattering it.)

Alex: Phew! That thing gave me the creeps. (Lucas runs up and grabs the Franklin Badge as Skull Kid floats above our heroes.)

Skull Kid: I’m not done with you yet! (Lightning appears on Erdrick’s sword as he charges his Zap spell.) Hee hee ha ha! You really think that’ll work?

Erdrick: Yaaaaaah! (Erdrick shoots lightning at Skull Kid, the electricity enveloping him. Skull Kid screams out as the mask flies off of him, out into the forest. The released Skull Kid falls onto the ground and rubs his head.)

Skull Kid: Urgh… what happened? Did the mask… make me hurt people? (Our heroes surround Skull Kid.)

Alex: The mask?

Skull Kid: Majora’s Mask. It took over my body again. Last time was a disaster. (He pauses.) Who are you guys?

Mario: We’re-a looking for Master Mind. You said before that you-a worked for him.

Skull Kid: Sorry, I don’t know who that is. (He begins walking off.) I have to go find my friends. Bye! (Skull Kid leaves.)

Mario: A dead end… (Mario looks down.)

Lucas: (To Mario.) Thanks for helping me get my badge back. Is there anything I can do to help you out?

Erdrick: We’re looking for a crystal. It’ll help us all get home.

Lucas: I can help you out with that. You all saved me.

Alex: And if there are more villains like that mask around here, you’ll need a martial arts master like me.

Erdrick: Let’s get out of this forest first.

Mario: (Nodding.) Yeah. (Our heroes all begin walking off through the forest. Before Lucas leaves, he looks behind him. He sees Claus smiling and standing behind him.)

Lucas: Huh? (Lucas rubs his eyes. When he stops Claus is no longer there. Lucas smiles as he runs to catch up with the others.)

(We cut away to see Majora’s Mask on the ground. We see a hand pick it up as Master Mind comes into frame.)

Master Mind: I was wondering where you had gone. That greedy king was unworthy of you, but I will find one worthy of your powers. You are the key to the destruction of this world. (A portal appears behind Master Mind.) I have a champion in mind for your skills, but I must find him first. (Master Mind walks through the portal and it closes. The screen goes black.)

End of Episode

Chapter 21: Killer Instinct

(The episode begins looking at a mountainside. A cave is seen on the side of the mountain as birds fly overhead. The camera cuts to inside the cave as a lit candle fills the screen. A figure is seen behind it. We cut again to see the closed eyes of Heihachi Mishima, meditating. The entrance to the cave is seen behind him, sunlight pouring through. A figure walks into the cave as Heihachi opens his eyes.)

Heihachi: Anata wa watashi ni chōsen shi ni kimashita. (We cut to the figure who entered the cave, revealing himself to be Jago.)

Jago: You are the one calling yourself the King of Iron Fist, are you not? (We cut to Heihachi, surrounded by a circle of lit candles. He gets up and faces Jago.)

Heihachi: An English speaker. No matter. Yes, I am the one you speak of. Heihachi Mishima, King of Iron Fist.

Jago: You have threatened the town below, fighting its warriors.

Heihachi: And you have come to stop me. The townspeople are far too weak to fight one from the Mishima bloodline, so they send one not from their world to stop me.

Jago: I was not sent. I chose to face you myself.

Heihachi: (Smiling.) Then you are a fool. And a foolish warrior does not hold a flame to one such as myself. (Heihachi throws a punch forward.) Yah! (The flames on the candle go out, plunging the cave into darkness. We cut back to Jago as he looks around.)

Jago: Only a coward would hide in the dark to face his opponent!

Heihachi: This would not pose a problem to a truly skilled fighter. (Jago holds up his fists, ready to face Heihachi.) Besides, I will not be the first opponent you will face!

Jago: Huh?

???: Uuuuuursa! (Suddenly, an Ursaring (Pokemon) charges out from the darkness and tackles Jago out of the cave. Jago falls to the ground as the Ursaring claws at him. Jago blocks the swipes with his arms. He then kicks the Ursaring back and uses his arms to backflip onto his legs in a crouched position. Heihachi walks out of the cave and stands next to the Ursaring.)

Heihachi: I have always had an affinity for bears, and this one has been incredibly easy to train.

Jago: Do you not fight with honor? Two against one gives you the unfair advantage.

Heihachi: (Laughs.) You will merely fight Ursa here to prove that you can challenge me. Now, fight! (The Ursaring charges forward again and swipes at Jago. Jago slides back before doing a flying kick into the Ursaring. Jago then performs two more kicks and an uppercut, sending the Ursaring back. Ursaring falls to the ground. It gets up and uses Hammer Arm, swinging its arm onto Jago and knocking him to the floor.)

Ursaring: Ursaring! (The Ursaring attempts to stomp on Jago, but he rolls out of the way and jumps back up. He then runs up, punches twice, does a bicycle kick into the Ursaring’s chin, and finishes with a punch to the chest as the Ursaring flies back, fainted. Jago takes out his sword and looks at Heihachi.)

Jago: You’re next.

Heihachi: (Smiling.) Your fighting is impressive, but your true challenge begins now. (Heihachi runs towards Jago. Jago swipes at Heihachi as he ducks and delivers a spinning kick at Jago’s knees. As Jago falls, Heihachi uppercuts Jago, sending him backwards.) I have not felt a rush like this in some time. (Heihachi clenches his fists and stomps the ground. Jago gets up and charges towards Heihachi, slashing his sword into Heihachi’s chest three times. Heihachi then punches Jago and delivers a kick into his stomach. Jago rolls backwards onto his feet and throws a fireball into Heihachi’s chest.)

Jago: Endokuken!

Heihachi: Agh! (Heihachi is blown back.)

Jago: I will end your reign! (Jago runs towards Heihachi and does a flying kick into him. He then slashes at Heihachi multiple times in quick succession. Heihachi catches Jago’s arm mid-swing as a red aura surrounds him, his rage. Heihachi swings Jago over his head onto the ground. He then punches Jago further down with a large punch into his back.)

Heihachi: You will not best me! (Heihachi prepares another punch as Jago suddenly slashes at Heihachi’s chest.) Ragh! (Heihachi falls to the ground, clutching his chest. He removes his hand, revealing blood.) Blood… (Jago walks up to Heihachi and grabs him by the collar.)

Jago: I’m afraid your path ends here. (Jago walks to the side of the mountain where there is a cliff and holds Heihachi above it.)

Heihachi: I’ll be back, warrior. (Jago lets go as Heihachi falls off the cliff. We hear a thud as Jago begins to walk away.)

Jago: I respect your strength, but I could not take any chances.

(We cut to Heihachi laying on the ground, blood still spilling out of him. He’s barely holding onto life.)

???: Perhaps you are finally past your prime. (Heihachi looks up to see Master Mind floating above him, looking down on him.) I can help you.

Heihachi: Who… who are you?

Master Mind: Think of me as an admirer. A fan. You are a great warrior, Heihachi Mishima. I have heard of your exploits.

Heihachi: How do you know this?

Master Mind: I have traveled across worlds, hearing of a warrior from the Mishima family, ruthless like no other. But meeting you now near the brink of death… it seems the mighty have fallen.

Heihachi: I am not yet finished… I can…

Master Mind: I am offering you my assistance. I am the only one who can save you in this state.

Heihachi: Why do you want to help me?

Master Mind: To return you to your former glory. (Master Mind extends his hand.) A man of your strength would be foolish to decline, and you are no fool. You are a king. (Heihachi reaches out and grabs Master Mind’s hand. We hear Heihachi scream as the screen suddenly turns black.)

(The scene changes to that of a small town. The mountains are seen in the background as lights appear from a city even further away. We cut into an alleyway as we see a crowd of people surrounded around Hero (Custom Robo).)

Hero: (Pointing.) Go! (The camera pans out as we see Ray (Custom Robo) flying in front of him. The camera pans around to see Ray’s opponent, Sukapon. Ryo Sakazaki (Art of Fighting) and Marshall Law (Tekken) are seen among the crowd behind him.) Get ‘im, Ray! (Ray flies forward and blasts at Sukapon, who side flips back in recoil. In retaliation, Sukapon throws his head into Ray, knocking him back. Sukapon spins forward with his arms over his head before doing a side flip into Ray, knocking him into a wall.) Come back, Ray! (Hero takes out his Robo Cube as Ray flies into it.)

(We cut forward in time as the crowd disperses back into town. We see Hero crouch down to talk to Sukapon.)

Hero: You put up quite the fight! Maybe we can battle again some time. (Hero stands back up and walks away. Sukapon starts up in the opposite direction. The camera pans to the entrance of the town as Jago enters, bruised. A bystander runs up to him.)

Bystander: Are you alright?

Jago: I am fine. The King of Iron Fist will not hurt this town anymore. (Jago starts off, leaving the bystander flabbergasted. We go back to Sukapon walking down the street as the sound of metal being crushed is heard. Sukapon looks around, making beeping sounds as he does. He then begins spinning towards the source of the sound. He turns the corner and is taken aback. The camera pans around to see Ryu with a dark aura around him and yellow eyes attacking a car.)

Ryu: Hiyaaa! (Ryu kicks the side door in as a man storms out of his house.)

Man: My car! (He starts towards Ryu.) You’re gonna be paying for that! (Ryu glares at the man.) You’re one of those other-worlders! You might think you own this whole f*cking place, but you don’t! (He grabs a shovel off of his lawn and runs towards Ryu. As he swings at Ryu, Ryu delivers a chop and breaks the shovel in half. Ryu grabs the man by his shoulders.) Huh?

Ryu: You wanna rethink that? (Ryu throws the man across his lawn and starts walking towards him. Suddenly, the head of Sukapon flies through the air and hits Ryu in the side of the head, barely phasing him. He looks towards the source of it to see Sukapon as he throws more duplicate heads at Ryu.) Fine. I’ll kill you too. (Ryu walks towards Sukapon as more duplicate heads hit his shoulders, slowly wearing him down.) Hadoken! (Ryu sends a Hadoken into Sukapon, knocking him backwards.)

(We cut back to Jago as he walks through town. The sound of beeping is suddenly heard as Sukapon suddenly flies behind him into the window of a store, causing an alarm to go off. Jago looks towards what threw Sukapon as the camera pans to see Ryu. We cut back to Jago.)

Jago: Looks like my job isn’t done. (He pulls out his sword as we see Sukapon jump out of the broken window. We see Jago run at Ryu as he swipes his sword at him. Ryu performs a Tatsumaki Senpukyaku as Jago dives out of the way.)

Ryu: Tatsumaki Senpukyaku! (Jago then runs up and punches Ryu in the face before kicking him backwards. Ryu jumps back towards Jago and delivers a Shoryuken into Jago’s chin.) Shoryuken! (Jago lands on his back as Ryu stands over him.) You put up a fight. Too bad you have to- (Suddenly, Sukapon side flips into Ryu, knocking him onto the ground. The dark aura flickers around him. We see Jago get up and look at Sukapon.)

Jago: Thanks. (Both heroes run towards Ryu as he tries to get up. As soon as he gets up, Jago kicks him in the side and he falls back down. The dark aura leaves his body. He begins to get up again as Jago puts his sword up to Ryu’s throat.) Don’t move.

Ryu: What…urgh…what happened? Where am I?

Jago: You attacked this town and now pretend to have lost your memory. (He pauses.) That aura around you has disappeared. Tell me, what was that?

Ryu: I… I don’t know. Master Mind he… where is he? (Jago and Sukapon look at each other before addressing Ryu again.)

Jago: Who?

Ryu: He wants this world for himself. I tried to stop him, but… he won somehow. (Two police cars pull up to the store that Sukapon was thrown into. Four cops get out. One addresses Jago as he puts his sword away.)

Police: Hey, did you see who did this? (We see Ryu get up as Jago turns to him.)

Jago: You must answer for this, but you must tell me more of this Master Mind. (A shadow suddenly looms above them as our heroes look up. The cops also do as their faces turn to shock.)

Police: What the hell is that?! (They pull out guns and point them upwards as the camera pans to see what’s above them. We see Heihachi now with horns and devil wings giving him flight. He resembles Devil Kazuya from the Tekken series. His form combined with Master Mind will be referred to as Dark Devil Heihachi.)

Dark Devil Heihachi: Ryu! It’s been awhile since I’ve seen you. I see you’ve made some new friends. (Jago turns to Ryu.)

Jago: Is this…?

Ryu: Master Mind has found me again. (He gets into a fighting stance.) I will not let him get away this time!

Jago: No… that is the man I fought earlier, Heihachi Mishima.

Dark Devil Heihachi: Heihachi has agreed to help in my conquest in exchange for his life. (A bullet flies past Dark Devil Heihachi as he looks down to see the police shooting at him.) It is endearing how you think that can stop me. (Lasers are shot from Dark Devil Heihachi’s eyes as they burn through the police, killing them all. Dark Devil Heihachi falls to the ground and looks at our heroes.) It appears that my mind control is too easily able to be broken, so I will break your bodies instead.

Ryu: I will not let you take this world!

Dark Devil Heihachi: Not take, Ryu. Destroy! (Dark Devil Heihachi releases eye lasers once more as Ryu and Jago dodge in opposite directions. Sukapon merely ducks underneath. Ryu does a flying kick towards Dark Devil Heihachi.)

Ryu: Heyah! (Dark Devil Heihachi grabs Ryu by his leg and throws him into Jago. Sukapon’s head then hits Dark Devil Heihachi in his chest as the rest of Sukapon’s body catches up. Dark Devil Heihachi pushes Sukapon away with his wings.)

Dark Devil Heihachi: I’ve had enough of you fighting robots. (Dark Devil Heihachi takes flight as we see Ryu get up in front of a car. Dark Devil Heihachi uses his laser eyes as they cut across the ground towards Ryu.)

Jago: Look out! (Jago pushes Ryu out of the way as the laser cuts through the car behind him. Dark Devil Heihachi lands next to the two heroes as he winds up a punch. We see the fist get within an inch of Ryu’s face as it stops. The camera pans to see Sukapon has grabbed the fist before it could land. He’s struggling to keep the fist in place.)

Dark Devil Heihachi: You have made allies that would die for you so quickly. How is this possible?

Jago: We are unkillable! (Ryu and Jago prepare a Hadoken and fireball respectively.)

Ryu/Jago: Hadoken!/Endokuken! (Both attacks hit Dark Devil Heihachi in the chest as it pushes him back. He slides next to Sukapon as he punches Sukapon far back. We see Jago run up to Dark Devil Heihachi and slash at him with his sword. Dark Devil Heihachi attempts to use his laser eyes as Jago moves his head out of the way just in time. Dark Devil Heihachi kicks Jago back as Ryu immediately takes his place. Ryu sends a punch into Dark Devil Heihachi’s side before delivering another to his face. Ryu then performs multiple spin kick attacks that knock Dark Devil Heihachi to the ground.)

Dark Devil Heihachi: I see why you call yourself a warrior. (He shoots lasers out of his eyes that skin Ryu’s side.)

Ryu: Gah! (He falls to the ground. We see Sukapon side flip towards Dark Devil Heihachi as he catches Sukapon in midair, holding him by the head. Dark Devil Heihachi begins to take flight.)

Dark Devil Heihachi: You have become quite a nuisance. (He squeezes Sukapon’s head.) Let us see if robots can truly feel pain. (He continues squeezing as Sukapon beeps in terror. Suddenly, Jago’s sword flies through the air, through Dark Devil Heihachi’s wing.) Gah! (He and Sukapon fall to the ground. Dark Devil Heihachi, now not holding Sukapon, turns towards Jago and Ryu, with Ryu still on the ground.) You will pay for that! (We cut to Sukapon as he spots Jago’s sword. He stretches his hands to grab it as he then sends his hands back, plunging the sword through Dark Devil Heihachi.) Gaaaaaah! (He looks down to see the sword through his chest and falls to his knees. A dark aura surrounds him. When it disappears, we see Heihachi with the sword through his chest with Master Mind floating above him.)

Master Mind: Perhaps you really are past your prime, Mishima.

Heihachi: You said… you would help me.

Master Mind: You are a lost cause. (We cut to Ryu getting up to face Master Mind.)

Ryu: I won’t let you get away.

Master Mind: I won’t bother to kill you here, but someone like you is bound to find me again. Take my advice… (Master Mind shoots lightning into Ryu, sending him onto the ground again.) Don’t try it. (A portal opens behind Master Mind and he enters it. It disappears, leaving our heroes with a dying Heihachi. Jago approaches him.)

Jago: I thought I took care of you.

Heihachi: He said… he would save me. Had I known he was Master Mind… I would not have accepted.

Ryu: (Getting up.) You know of him too?

Heihachi: I was alive during the war he created. I stayed away from it… but word eventually traveled to me. That only a gift from the stars… was able to stop him.

Jago: We can help you. You can help us kill him.

Heihachi: (Shaking his head.) No… my time is over. Do not let the world… fall into his hands. (Heihachi pulls the sword out of his chest and hands it to Jago.) You… will… need… this… (Jago grabs the sword as Heihachi falls to the ground, dead. Jago and Sukapon approach Ryu.)

Jago: (To Ryu.) You have fought Master Mind before?

Ryu: Twice, but it has been no use.

Jago: Lead us to him. We will put a stop to him. (Sukapon spins around and makes happy beeping noises.)

Ryu: Many have fallen to him. I cannot let you accompany me unless you are certain this is what you want.

Jago: (Looks back at Heihachi.) We can’t let anyone else die in his conquest for glory.

Ryu: Very well. (He looks over Jago and Sukapon. He then turns around and looks at the city.) We will travel to the city then. Surely we can find more information there. (Our heroes begin walking towards the city as the camera slowly pans up to see it.)

End of Episode

Chapter 22: Take Your Heart

(The episode begins in the middle of an art museum. Patrons are seen wandering amongst the area. Among some of the patrons, we see Tooty (Banjo-Kazooie) looking at one of the paintings. We also see Kiya (MediEvil) glancing at some art pieces.)

Kiya: Fascinating. (We cut to see a Smeargle (Pokemon) using his tail to paint on the wall.)

Smeargle: Smear smear smear… (The Smeargle is suddenly grabbed by the neck.) Smeargle! (We see that it was picked up by Carmelita Fox. She holds the Smeargle up as it flails its legs.)

Carmelita: You little pest! I thought I kicked you out of here already. (She walks over to an exit and throws the Smeargle out the door.)

Smeargle: Smear! (Carmelita walks back to where she was in the museum. A voice is suddenly heard.)

???: Mommy, what’s that?

Carmelita: Huh? (Carmelita looks over to see a young girl. Surrounding her are her mother, father, and older brother.)

Brother: Ew. Yeah, what is that thing, mom?

Mom: Don’t stare, kids.

Dad: Maybe it’s some sort of costume or mascot.

Girl: Ooooooh.

Carmelita: Actually, sir, I’m a fox. I work security here.

Dad: Oh… well…

Brother: Ugh, I’ve had enough of looking at these freaks. Can we go home?

Mom: (Shushing him.) Be quiet. (The family walks away. Carmelita looks down for a moment before another voice says something her way.)

???: So much for respect these days. (Carmelita looks up to see the source of the voice coming from Joker. He’s currently dressed in his normal school clothes and glasses.) You alright?

Carmelita: Fine, thank you. I’ve had much worse interactions in the past. (Joker approaches her.)

Joker: I don’t suppose you’re a curator here, are you? All the art around here is very interesting.

Carmelita: Afraid not. I’m security here. (She looks off into her thoughts.) I did always love the art galleries back home. (She goes back to normal.) I used to be in INTERPOL, but it doesn’t seem like they hire foxes here. Security work isn’t bad though. I might know a bit about some of the art you have questions about.

Joker: (Pointing away.) Oh, it’s just this one over here. (He leads Carmelita to a pedestal with a glass casing. Red rope is also seen around the pedestal. Inside the glass casing is a shard of the Shadow Crystal.) This one really caught my attention.

Carmelita: Well, lucky for you, I happen to know a bit about this one. Some shard of a crystal found by a donator. Arrived here a couple days after I was hired. We’re having a gem expert flown in in a few days to look at it. Until then, we have it shown in the museum.

Joker: Intriguing. You’ll have to tell me all about it once they figure out what it is.

Carmelita: (She smiles.) Just ask for Carmelita Fox. I should be here.

Joker: Perfect. I’m Ren by the way, Ren Amamiya.

Carmelita: It was very nice meeting you, Ren. Anything else I can help you with? (We go to a view on the museum roof as we see Carmelita and Joker through a glass portion of the roof. We see the two of them walk away. A black, shadowy gas flies across the screen, seemingly spying on the two. Evil laughter suddenly rings through the air.)

(We cut to that night on the city streets. We see Jimmy Hopkins walking down the sidewalk with two bags of food.)

Jimmy: This food better be good. (As Jimmy walks down the street, the camera pans to see two members of the Jade Gang (Sleeping Dogs) walking towards him. As they’re about to pass each other. One member suddenly runs behind Jimmy and grabs both his arms.) Hey! (The second member punches Jimmy in the face.)

Member #2: Alright, rich boy. Give me all the money you have.

Jimmy: (Looks back at him.) Go to Hell. You don’t wanna be messing with me.

Member #2: Oh really? Why’s that?

Jimmy: (Smiles.) I have some powerful friends, d*ckweed. (The second member begins laughing until a large fist punches him in the back of the head and knocks him out onto the ground. The fist disappears, revealing Wonder Red behind him.)

Wonder Red: Justice always prevails! (The first Jade Gang member lets go of Jimmy and starts to run away. He immediately runs into the chest of Rick Taylor, who towers over him.)

Rick: Boo. (Rick grabs the member by his collar and throws him across the street.)

Terror Mask: Atta boy, Rick. I knew you had it in you. (Wonder Red goes to check on Jimmy.)

Wonder Red: Are you okay, Jimmy?

Jimmy: (Brushing himself off.) Yeah, I’m fine. (He grabs the food bags off of the ground.) Let’s eat already. I’m starving. (We cut to Jimmy and Wonder Red eating burgers on a bench. Rick is standing beside the bench.) Can’t believe we haven’t found any leads on how to get home.

Wonder Red: Don’t worry, Jimmy. We’ll figure this out.

Rick: Yeah, and we’ll smash whoever’s been causing this. (Rick smashes his fist against his palm.)

Jimmy: I like the sound of that. (Two shadows, one big and one small, suddenly fly overhead. Our heroes look up.) What was that?

Wonder Red: I’m not sure, but something tells me it wasn’t just birds. (They look over to see two figures jumping from building to building. Wonder Red springs up from the bench.) Let’s go take a look!

(We cut back to inside the museum as we see Carmelita patrolling the area with a flashlight.)

Carmelita: Aye, how’d I get stuck with the night shift? (She shines her light over the Shadow Crystal shard.) Maybe it’s for the best Sly isn’t around. He might be too tempted to snag that thing for himself. (She walks away. We cut onto the museum roof as two figures jump onto it. One is Joker, now in his Phantom Thieves outfit. The second figure is Morgana (Shin Megami Tensei).)

Morgana: This place sure is cool! Usually we only do this kinda stuff in the Metaverse.

Joker: It’s strange, yes, but it will be very helpful in getting that jewel. (Joker and Morgana look through the glass roof at the shard.)

Morgana: How exactly will this help us? I know we’re Phantom Thieves and all, but we’re still good guys, right?

Joker: That’s no ordinary jewel. It’s a shard of something called the Shadow Crystal.

Morgana: And that’s important because…?

Joker: It apparently held someone called Master Mind, at least that’s what I’ve read. It’s unmistakable that that’s a shard of it. (Joker takes out his dagger and uses it to pry open a glass pane in the glass ceiling. He picks it up and gently places it on the ground.) If the Shadow Crystal is broken, then that must mean that whoever Master Mind is is freed. (He takes out a grappling hook.) So grabbing this shard is important. We can’t let it sit in this museum. (Looks at Morgana.) Does that make sense?

Morgana: Uh… (Smiles.) I think so!

Joker: Great. (He hooks the hook part of the grappling hook onto the roof and makes sure it's secure.) Security in this place is low, just a guard or two, so this’ll be quick. (He starts lowering himself down.) Just keep an eye out for anything that’ll give us trouble.

Morgana: You got it, Joker. (We cut to inside the museum as Carmelita continues patrolling.)

Carmelita: Looks like it’s gonna be a quiet night. I guess with no Cooper Gang to worry about, everything’s easier. (She looks off.) Oh, Sly… where are you? (We cut back to Joker as he hangs above the pedestal with the shard. He places his hands on the glass casing and begins to carefully lift it up.)

Joker: (Whispering.) Almost got it. (Joker begins reaching for the shard. Suddenly, Carmelita walks back into the room and spots Joker.)

Carmelita: Hey! (She holds up her shock pistol and shoots at Joker. He’s hit in the side and falls off of his grappling hook. The glass casing shatters on the floor. He starts to get up as Carmelita holds her pistol towards him.) Don’t move! (Joker stops moving. In one swift movement, he suddenly grabs a large shard of glass and throws it at Carmelita. It knocks her weapon out of her hand as it slides across the floor. Joker takes out his dagger and points it at Carmelita.)

Joker: I’m not here to hurt you.

Carmelita: Do I look like an idiot? (Carmelita lunges towards Joker and kicks him in the chest, knocking him down. Joker takes out a handgun and begins firing warning shots at Carmelita.)

Joker: Stop before you get hurt! (Carmelita runs back and grabs her shock pistol. She then runs towards Joker while shooting. One shot hits Joker as he’s knocked back against the wall. Carmelita grabs him by the neck.)

Carmelita: That’ll teach you to try to cross Carmelita Fox!

Joker: It’s… it’s me… Ren.

Carmelita: (Shocked.) Huh? (Joker pulls his legs in and kicks Carmelita away as she slides across the museum floor. We cut back to Morgana on the roof as the gaseous object from before floats past him.)

Morgana: Huh? (It flies through the open glass ceiling towards the shard. We cut back to Carmelita and Joker as Joker approaches Carmelita as she gets up.)

Carmelita: You’re the kid from today? You were just some thief?

Joker: That crystal could be the key to getting back home. (A voice is suddenly heard.)

???: Only I can handle the power that this holds.

Joker: Huh? (Joker and Carmelita look over towards the pedestal as they see Mephiles the Dark holding the shard in his hand. He floats above the pedestal.)

Mephiles: A Chaos Emerald should belong to one who can truly utilize its power. A child like you would misuse it.

Carmelita: Who are you supposed to be?

Mephiles: You may call me Mephiles, and with this Chaos Emerald, the world will finally bow down to me. (He begins laughing as he floats back through the glass roof.)

Joker: We can’t let him get away with that! (Joker begins climbing up his grappling hook, back to the roof.)

Carmelita: You think you’re getting away just because someone else got that gem first?! (She holds up her shock pistol.) You have another thing coming! (We see Joker gather up his grappling hook on the roof as he turns to Morgana.)

Joker: We gotta follow that floating animal thing, Morgana.

Morgana: Leave it to me! (We cut to the front of the museum as Rick, Jimmy, and Wonder Red approach the front entrance. Mephiles suddenly flies down from above and moves past our heroes while laughing.)

Wonder Red: What was that? (Suddenly, Morgana, now in his van form, lands on the ground and starts screeching towards the direction Mephiles went. Jimmy and Wonder Red fall to the ground after it lands.)

Terror Mask: Now this is interesting! (Carmelita bursts out of the museum door.)

Carmelita: Come back here, you thief! (Carmelita runs after the others as Wonder Red helps Jimmy up.)

Wonder Red: That’s our cue, team. Let’s go! (Rick, Jimmy, and Wonder Red run after the others. We cut to the Mephiles floating quickly through the air above the road. He starts floating backwards as he notices the Morgana van after him, with Joker leaning out of the driver side window.)

Mephiles: You think you can stop me! (Mephiles begins summoning clones of himself. As soon as they’re summoned, they fly towards Joker. Joker shoots at them with his handgun, causing them to fall onto the road as Morgana dodges other cars on the road. One Mephiles clone lands on another car after it’s shot, causing the car to slide to a halt. Mephiles turns a corner. Morgana’s tires screech as he turns to follow Mephiles, nearly running over Harry Mason (Silent Hill) and Nick Kang (True Crime) crossing the street.)

Nick: Watch where you’re going! (We cut to Carmelita running through the street as more Mephiles clones float towards her. She shoots one, causing it to fall.)

Carmelita: That takes care of it. (Another Mephiles clone floats towards her without her seeing it. Rick jumps in and smashes it onto the street. Carmelita turns towards Rick and screams. She holds up her pistol as Jimmy and Wonder Red run up.)

Wonder Red: Don’t worry! We’re here to help.

Carmelita: (Nods.) Follow me, and don’t let those things grab you. The one with the crystal must still be being chased. (Wonder Red nods as they all run off. We go back to Morgana as he drives through the street. Joker continues shooting out the window. Mephiles then turns and floats into a parking lot. Morgana follows, but when he turns the corner, Mephiles is gone.)

Joker: Where’d he go? (An energy spear suddenly shoots through the air and stabs through Morgana’s side. Morgana flips over and skids on the ground for a bit before stopping. Joker crawls out hurriedly.) Morgana! Morgana, are you alright!?

Morgana: (Coughing.) Y-Yeah… I’ll be okay… I promise… (Joker hears laughter as he looks behind him to see Mephiles floating towards him.)

Mephiles: Did you really think you had a chance at beating me. I’m invincible. (A large group of Mephiles clones suddenly appears and surrounds Joker as he looks around him. Two clones fly up to Joker and grab his arms. They pull hard on them.)

Joker: Agh! (Mephiles holds up his hand to shoot another energy spear.)

Mephiles: It was fun, but it’s time to end this. (Before he can shoot, an energy blast suddenly hits him in the back.) Who did that? (He turns around to see that the other four heroes have caught up.)

Carmelita: You have something that belongs to the museum. (Mephiles tosses the shard up and down in his hand.)

Mephiles: Chaos Emeralds don’t belong in museums. They deserve to be used for their power by people deserving. By me. Turn back while you still can.

Jimmy: Look at you! You’re ridiculous. You sound like villains in the old movies my stepdad watches.

Mephiles: Insolent fools! Fear my wrath! (The Mephiles clones start floating towards our heroes. Wonder Red and Rick run towards them as Carmelita and Jimmy shoot at them, Carmelita with her pistol and Jimmy with his slingshot. We cut to Wonder Red as he uses his Unite Hand to punch a Mephiles clone holding Joker. Joker, with his free hand, uses his dagger to stab the other clone in the neck.)

Joker: Thanks. (He takes out his pistol and shoots Mephiles clones around him. We cut to Jimmy as he hits an oncoming Mephiles clone with his skateboard. The real Mephiles floats up and picks Jimmy up.)

Jimmy: Hey! What’re you- (Mephiles throws Jimmy onto the ground as he rolls backwards onto his back. We then cut to Rick as he slams his fists into three Mephiles clones, crushing them on the ground.)

Terror Mask: I need more blood! (Mephiles clones suddenly fly at Rick and latch themselves onto him, holding him down.)

Rick: There’s too many! (Carmelita jumps onto Rick’s back and begins shooting at the clones holding onto him. One flies towards her, but she delivers a kick to its face.)

Carmelita: (To Rick.) C’mon, big guy! Let’s clean up this mess.

Terror Mask: I’m starting to like this girl. (We cut to Mephiles as he flies towards Joker. Joker slides underneath Mephiles before throwing his grappling hook around his leg. He pulls on it as Mephiles is tugged backwards, landing on the ground.)

Mephiles: (Untangling his leg.) You have my attention. (Joker removes his mask.)

Joker: Persona! (Blue fire appears around Joker’s face as Arsene (Shin Megami Tensei) appears behind him.) Arsene! Use Eiha! (Arsene shoots Eiha at Mephiles, knocking him back slightly. Mephiles clutches his chest as the curse damages him.)

Mephiles: It’ll take a lot more than that to defeat me! (We cut away to see Wonder Red using his Unite Hand to punch a Mephiles clone upwards. Behind him, Jimmy grabs a nearby trash can and hits a Mephiles clone with it.)

Jimmy: Weak! (We cut again to see Carmelita shooting at clones around her. Rick runs through the area as he picks up a car and smashes it onto two clones.)

Terror Mask: Property damage! I like it. (We cut back to Mephiles and Joker.)

Mephiles: You can’t win this!

Joker: It looks like you’re out of clones. (Mephiles looks around to see no more clones of himself. The rest of the heroes start towards him.) Time for an all-out attack! (Silhouettes of our characters appear as the background turns red. They jump into the air as the screen cracks. Portraits of the heroes in the style of Persona 5 appear on screen as a text box for Joker appears in the top right corner.) All together now! (We see our heroes beat up a silhouette of Mephiles before they disappear again. Joker, now normal, drops down from above and strikes a pose in another stylized portrait as the silhouette of Mephiles gushes blood. Everything turns back to normal as Mephiles drops to the ground. The shard rolls towards Joker.)

Mephiles: It can’t be… (Joker picks up the shard.)

Joker: Get out of here now before it gets messier.

Mephiles: Ugh… (He turns into his shadowy, gaseous form as he floats away. Joker turns towards the others.)

Carmelita: Now, why were you after this shard, Re-

Joker: (Interrupting.) Joker. Just call me Joker. I believe this shard could help us get back home. It’s an artifact that once held an evil entity. I don’t think him being free and us being here is a coincidence.

Terror Mask: Of course, Master Mind. I should’ve known.

Rick: Terror Mask, you know this guy? (We suddenly hear groaning as Joker turns to see Morgana, now in normal form, limping towards him.)

Joker: Morgana! Are you alright?

Morgana: Just peachy, Joker. Ow… just might have to sit the rest of this adventure out.

Joker: It’s alright, buddy. Don't worry about it. You've done your part. (Morgana smiles.)

Carmelita: (To Joker and Rick.) What else do you two know about this gem? (Police sirens are suddenly heard.)

Joker: I can tell you more once we get out of here. If we’re caught, we have no chance. (Carmelita thinks it over. She sighs.)

Carmelita: (To herself.) Oh, Sly. You’ve made me soft. (To the others.) Alright, follow me. And hurry! (Our heroes run from the parking lot, with Morgana going a different way. We see two police cruisers pull up. Two officers exit and examine the parking lot. They see the broken car and trash can.)

Officer #1: Christ, what happened here?

Officer #2: (Picking a card up.) Hey, you might wanna see this.

Officer #1: Huh? (He walks over to see the card. The camera focuses on it. It’s a Phantom Thieves calling card with their logo. It says Take Your Heart. The officer flips it around to see a note saying “Call out to the Phantom Thieves, and we shall seal shut the Master Mind”.) What do you make of this?

Officer #2: I dunno, but whatever or whoever it is, I think they’re watching after us. (The camera focuses on the logo of the Phantom Thieves as the camera fades out.)

End of Episode

Chapter 23: Samba de Party

(The episode begins looking at a carnival on a pier. Many attractions are seen, such as a roller coaster and a tilt-a-whirl. A large amount of people are meandering around the carnival. We cut into the carnival to see people milling about. A Mr. Mime (Pokemon) is pretending to be in an invisible box as children watch its performance.)

Mr. Mime: Mr. Miiiiiiime! (We also see Lola Pop (ARMS) handing out balloons in the background. The sound of music begins to fill the air as we cut to a different section of the carnival. We see Lammy (PaRappa the Rapper) playing her guitar and Barbara (Jam With the Band) playing a bass hooked up to an amp. The sound of maracas starts up as suddenly, from between Lammy and Barbara, Amigo jumps into the air over the both of them, lands, and starts shaking his maracas.)

Amigo: Ole! (Amigo shakes his maracas wildly whilst moving around and dancing with the crowd that formed around the band. Eventually, Amigo throws both of his maracas into the air and takes off his sombrero. He places it upside down on the ground before catching his maracas. People begin putting money into the sombrero. Amigo continues to dance with his maracas. As Lammy and Barbara play their last chords, Amigo drops to his knees, winks, and strikes a pose, causing the crowd to erupt with applause.) Thank you, mi amigos! You’ve been a wonderful crowd. (Barbara and Lammy meet Amigo at his hat as he takes the money out and puts his hat back on.)

Barbara: How much did we make, Amigo?

Amigo: Enough for the corn dog stand at least. (His eyes become stars.) Ooh! Maybe even the roller coaster! (He hands the other two their share.)

Lammy: Good enough for me. (Lammy skates off as Barbara exits.)

(The scene changes to the edge of the carnival, looking into the water. The camera zooms into the water as we cut underwater. We suddenly see Tidus floating underwater, now wearing a blue hat similar to Link’s hat.)

Tidus: You guys are toast! (The camera pans to see a group of Zoras (The Legend of Zelda) moving towards him with a blitzball. The leading Zora passes the ball to a different Zora on its left. Tidus swims over to block the Zora from swimming any further. The Zora attempts to kick the ball away from Tidus.)

Zora: Hah! (We cut to the waterline as the blitzball soars out of the water into the carnival area.) Oops. Kicked it a little hard there.

Tidus: Don’t worry, I’ll get it. (We see Tidus swim to the surface and pull himself up to the pier the carnival is on. He takes off his blue hat and sets it on the ground.) Nifty breathing cap. (He runs off to retrieve the ball. We see Tidus run over and grab the ball. As he’s getting up, we see a stand in the background with an M painted onto it in red.) Huh? (Tidus walks over to the M and studies it for a second.) That’s strange. (Tidus turns around as a shocked expression makes its way onto his face. The camera switches perspective as we see a shadowy figure standing on one of the carnival’s buildings. The figure appears to be Shadow Mario holding a large paintbrush. We cut to Tidus continuing to look at the figure as Amigo suddenly walks into him, distracted by the money in his hands.)

Amigo: Oof! (Amigo looks up towards Tidus.) Oh! Sorry, mister. (He sheepishly scratches the back of his head.) Guess I was a bit distracted.

Tidus: No worries. (Tidus looks back at the building, but Shadow Mario is no longer on the roof. Amigo begins to walk off but Tidus grabs his shoulder and stops him.) Hey. (He points towards the building.) Did you see someone up on that building? (Amigo looks at him confused and then looks towards the building.)

Amigo: Uh… nope! (He smiles.) Sorry, haven’t seen anyone on buildings.

Tidus: Well, thanks anyways. (Amigo walks off as Tidus continues to study the building.)

(We cut to the entrance of the carnival as we see Chuck, Beat, and Amy walk by. Chuck’s motorcycle is parked in the background. Amy is holding the shard of the Shadow Crystal with both hands.)

Amy: This is a really pretty jewel. Maybe I can make it into a necklace!

Beat: Sounds fly to me.

Chuck: Let’s just get some food first. (We suddenly hear the sound of crying as our heroes look over to see a Koopa-like figure sitting down and crying.)

Amy: Huh?

Beat: Looks like that dude is having a tough day.

Amy: (Smiling and walking over to him.) Maybe we can brighten up his day a little. (We cut to Amy approaching the Koopa.) Hey, are you okay? (The cries suddenly turn to laughter.) Uh… you okay, kid? (The figure suddenly turns around, revealing himself to be Iggy Koopa (Super Mario).)

Iggy: Gwah! (He raises his arms and screams at Amy.)

Amy: Ah! (Amy starts walking backwards, away from Iggy. Suddenly, a large, yellow ball with orange stars bounces on the ground into Amy from behind. This causes the shard to fly out of her hands. Iggy catches it.)

Iggy: Haha! (We see Chuck and Beat look at the scene confused.)

Chuck: What’s going on? (Lemmy Koopa (Super Mario) then rolls between them on a large ball towards Iggy.)

Lemmy: Yeah!

Beat: Woah! (Lemmy meets up with Iggy as the two of them start towards the carnival. Amy gets up.)

Amy: They stole my jewel! (Pointing towards the carnival.) I’m not letting them get away! (Amy runs after them. Beat immediately follows. Chuck looks confused for a second before he shakes his head and follows the other two.)

Chuck: You gotta be kidding me.

(We cut back to Amigo cheerfully walking through the carnival. A large thud is heard behind him as he turns around. A look of confusion crosses his face as the camera pans to see Roy Koopa (Super Mario) holding a Bill Blaster.)

Roy: Heya, monkey! (He points his Bill Baster at Amigo.) How about you dance for us! (Roy laughs to himself as he shoots a Bullet Bill (Super Mario) at Amigo. A look of dread fills Amigo’s face as the Bullet Bill flies towards him. The screen goes white as a slashing sound is suddenly heard. We cut to Amigo’s closed eyes as he slowly opens them to see Tidus. His sword, the Brotherhood, is stabbed onto the ground as we see two halves of a Bullet Bill on either side of it.)

Tidus: (To Amigo.) Gotcha covered!

Amigo: (Smiling.) Guau! You’re the mister from before!

Roy: So, you got a friend? Me too. (Laughter is suddenly heard as Amigo and Tidus look behind them to see Morton Koopa Jr. (Super Mario) next to a high striker attraction. He grabs the mallet for the game and pulls out a Bob-omb (Super Mario).)

Morton: Grahaha! (He throws the Bob-omb in the air and hits it towards our heroes using the mallet. Amigo grabs Tidus by the hand and drags him away from the fight. The Bob-omb hits the ground and explodes as Amigo and Tidus run away.)

Roy: You can run!

Morton: And you can hide!

Roy/Morton: But you’ll never escape the Koopalings! (They run after Amigo and Tidus. We cut to Iggy and Lemmy as they crash through the entrance to the carnival, knocking people down as they run in, laughing. Amy, Beat, and Chuck quickly follow as they enter the area.)

Amy: Get back here, you dumb kids! (Iggy and Lemmy approach a water shooting gallery. Iggy grabs one of the guns and shoots it at Amy.)

Iggy: Yahaha! (We see water hit Amy in the face as she falls to the ground.)

Amy: Ah! (We see Beat skate past her as Chuck helps her up. Beat skates over to a corndog stand and grabs ketchup and mustard bottles.)

Beat: Borrowing these! (We cut back to Iggy running away as Beat skates in front of him and squirts the contents of the bottles into Iggy’s face.) Order up! (Iggy throws the shard as he stumbles back into a cardboard cutout used for pictures. It shatters as he falls through it.)

Iggy: Ow… (We cut to Lemmy as he catches the shard and continues rolling away.)

Lemmy: Nanananana! Try and catch me! (We cut back to Amigo and Tidus as Roy and Morton continue their chase. Roy stops and shoots another Bullet Bill at them. It strikes the ground behind them and explodes, sending them in different directions.)

Amigo: Waaaaah! (Amigo lands in a stand with stuffed animals inside it. A shadow suddenly looms over him as the camera pans to see Roy pointing his Bill Blaster at him.)

Roy: Any last words, monkey?

Amigo: (Smiles.) Looks like you beat me. (He grabs a large stuffed Robbie the Rabbit stuffed animal.) How about a prize? (He stuffs the stuffed animal into the Bill Blaster and runs away.)

Roy: Huh? (The Bill Blaster starts making noises as it turns red. It suddenly explodes as Roy is now gone. We hear him yelling as he suddenly drops into the water in the background. We cut to Tidus getting up as Morton runs towards him. He slams his hammer onto the ground as Tidus rolls out of the way and gets up.)

Tidus: My turn now! (Tidus slashes at Morton, who blocks with his hammer. Morton then pushes Tidus away before slamming his hammer into Tidus’ side.) Ow! (We cut to Lemmy rolling through the carnival as he suddenly stops. He looks around, realizing he’s no longer being followed, and wipes his brow.)

Lemmy: Phew! (Chuck’s voice is suddenly heard.)

Chuck: Hey! (Lemmy looks over to see Chuck come out from hiding behind a dart stand. He’s holding darts in his hands.) Think I can hit a bullseye? (Chuck throws a dart at Lemmy as we see it hit his ball. The ball pops as Lemmy flies into the air and hides in his shell. The shard is blown away out of his hands. Amy suddenly pops out with her hammer.)

Amy: Don’t mess with Amy Rose, kid! (Amy hits the shell away with her hammer. We cut back to Tidus and Morton, who is standing over Tidus with his hammer raised.)

Morton: Morton smash you now! Hahaha! (As Morton laughs, Lemmy’s shell flies through the air and hits him in the head, knocking him out. Amigo runs over and helps Tidus up.)

Amigo: Are you alright, mister?

Tidus: Yeah, just a bit scratched up. (Chuck, Beat, and Amy run up to our heroes.)

Amy: Hey, have you guys seen a gem around here?

Tidus: A gem? (Amigo turns around and points at something.)

Amigo: Is that it? (Everyone looks towards what Amigo is pointing at. We see Shadow Mario holding the shard in his hand while looking at our heroes.)

Shadow Mario: Wow, talk about a pain in my side. Who thought a bunch of losers like you could give my siblings so much trouble. (Amy holds up her hammer.)

Amy: You better give my gem back right now or I’ll smash you into next week!

Shadow Mario: Some very important people want this jewel. But if it’s a fight you want… (Suddenly, Larry Koopa (Super Mario), Wendy O. Koopa (Super Mario), and Ludwig Von Koopa (Super Mario) pop up onto the building next to Shadow Mario while laughing.) It’s a fight you’ll get! (He points his paintbrush at our heroes as the Koopalings jump towards the heroes. We see Wendy hit Beat with her wand before running away.)

Beat: Hey! (Beat skates after her. Ludwig and Larry run towards the ferris wheel as Chuck and Tidus give chase. Now, it’s only Amy, Amigo, and Shadow Mario.)

Amigo: (To Shadow Mario.) Looks like it’s just you and me! (Looks over at Amy and smiles.) And her!

Amy: Uh… yeah. (Shadow Mario drops to the ground and slashes his paintbrush across Amigo’s face, leaving paint on him and knocking him to the ground. Amy swings her hammer at Shadow Mario as he jumps out of the way and behind Amy.) Huh? (Shadow Mario uppercuts Amy and knocks her onto the ground.) Oof!

(We cut to Beat chasing Wendy to the roller coaster. Wendy jumps onto the back of the cart and shoots a magic ring at Beat, which trips him over.)

Beat: Gah!

Wendy: Later, skater! Hahaha! (The other patrons look at Wendy in confusion as the cart starts up a hill. We see Beat get up and skate onto the tracks. He begins grinding up the rail towards the cart. As the cart gets to the top of the hill, Wendy looks back to Beat coming towards her.) What?! I thought I put you outta commission! (The cart starts dropping fast down the hill as Beat catches up. He grinds downwards after the cart as Wendy shoots more magic at him. He ducks as it goes over him.)

Beat: Haha! Now this is skating! (The cart goes in a loop as Beat follows. As Beat gets to the top of the loop, the cart begins passing beneath him. Beat drops down to where Wendy is. He quickly takes out spray paint and sprays it onto her.)

Wendy: Aaaah! My pearls! My bow! (The cart quickly goes up another hill, bucking Beat and Wendy off. We see Wendy yell as she flies into the water. Beat lands on the pier and uses his skates to stop himself.)

Beat: What a rush! Gotta try that back in Tokyo-to. (We cut back to Shadow Mario as he trips Amy with his paintbrush.)

Shadow Mario: You’re all a bunch of dummies! (A maraca suddenly hits Shadow Mario in the back of the head. The camera pans over to see Amigo, now with no paint on his face, as he shakes two more maracas.)

Amigo: Time to sambaaaa! (He throws the maracas. One hits Shadow Mario in the head as he hits the other away with his paintbrush.)

Shadow Mario: You’re making me mad! (He throws the paintbrush as it twirls around and hits Amigo down.)

(We cut to Larry and Ludwig pushing people out of the way as they enter a ferris wheel bench. They shoot magic projectiles at Chuck and Tidus as they pursue. Chuck passes a Whack-a-Mole machine and tears the tied up mallet on it off of the machine. Tidus looks at it.)

Tidus: I’m not sure if that’ll do a lot of damage.

Chuck: Well, I don’t have a sword like you.

Tidus: Fair point! (They continue running as they jump into the bench following Larry and Ludwig. They look down at Chuck and Tidus.)

Ludwig: You wanna play Whack-a-Mole, huh? Alright… (He raises his wand.) Let’s play! (Magic surrounds the wand as we cut back to Chuck and Tidus. A fake Ludwig appears behind them as Chuck quickly turns and whacks it on the head, making it disappear. Another appears to their right and Chuck hits that one too. This continues as their benches reach the top and they become mostly parallel to each other. Tidus jumps towards the Koopalings’ bench, hanging onto the side of it.)

Larry: How’s it hangin’! (Larry begins stepping on Tidus’ fingers.)

Tidus: Gah! (He pulls his hand away, leaving him with only one hand to grab the bench.)

Larry: Bye bye! (He lifts up his leg again as the mallet suddenly flies through the air and hits Larry in the face.) Wah! (Larry falls off of the bench. We cut to see Larry land on a slushy stand, crashing through into the slushy machine.) Oh… (We cut back to Tidus as he crawls up and slashes Ludwig off of the cart.)

Tidus: Yah! (Ludwig flies off as we see him land, shell first, on the high striker from before. The bell on it rings as Ludwig looks dazed into the air.)

Ludwig: Oooh… not fun… (We cut back to Amigo as he dances wildly around Bowser Jr., shaking his maracas.)

Amigo: ¡Arriba, arriba! (He throws his sombrero onto Shadow Mario’s head. The large hat covers his eyes as Amigo cartwheels over and spins Shadow Mario around wildly. Amy then runs towards Shadow Mario.)

Amy: Now for the finishing touch! (Amy smashes her hammer into Shadow Mario, sending him into the water next to the pier. Amigo’s sombrero flies off of him as Amigo catches it and bows. We see the other heroes run up to Amigo and Amy as they all gather around the water. Instead of Shadow Mario popping out of the water, Bowser Jr. does, no longer disguised.)

Bowser Jr.: Waaaah! You’re all meanies!

Tidus: A disguise?

Chuck: Why’d you and the others come after us, kid?

Bowser Jr.: M-M-Master Mind told me to get your stupid jewel. He said that if I did… I could see my papa again. (He pauses.) But I think papa… he’s… (Bowser Jr. begins bawling.) My papa’s gone! M-Master Mind killed my papa. He-he promised that we would all rule together. (Our heroes look at each other concerned. Amigo then leans down and offers Bowser Jr. his hand. He helps him onto the pier.) Thanks…

Amigo: You’re welcome!

Bowser Jr.: Master Mind wants to rule the world. (He holds out the Shadow Crystal shard.) But I don’t wanna rule here. I wanna go home. (Amy grabs the shard and puts her hand on Bowser Jr.’s shoulder.)

Amy: Hey, kid, we’ll take care of this guy for you. We’ll make sure he won’t do anything to this world.

Bowser Jr.: (Sniffles.) Promise?

Amy: (She looks at the other heroes.) We promise.

Bowser Jr.: I don’t want him to hurt me or my siblings.

Tidus: Maybe you can hide out with the carnival workers here. (He pulls out his sword.) We’ll make sure he doesn’t get to you though.

Amigo: (Looking upwards, dreamily.) I wish I could live at a carnival.

Bowser Jr.: (Sniffles.) Thanks. You guys aren’t as dumb as I thought. (He smiles.) Kick Master Mind’s butt for me. (He runs off to find his siblings.)

Beat: Well, gang, looks like we found ourselves a new objective.

Tidus: Then we better find Master Mind.

Amy: (Looking at the shard.) And I think my gem is gonna be useful for more than just a necklace.

Amigo: Then let’s goooooooo! (Amigo shakes his maracas and runs off. Chuck looks over at Tidus who just shrugs. Everyone follows after Amigo.)

End of Episode

Chapter 24: Quantum Break

(The episode begins looking down on a college campus. The camera zooms into one of the campus buildings as we hear the voice of the Dean of the college.)

Dean: Well, Mr. Joyce, you certainly have quite the resume. (We cut into the Dean’s office to see him sitting at his desk. Across from the desk, Jack Joyce sits in a chair facing the Dean.) But with your… ahem… condition…

Jack: That won’t be an issue, sir. I will keep my powers under control. (There’s a knock at the door. We see Dr. Light (Mega Man) poke his head through the door.)

Light: Excuse me, Dean Vanders. I just came to grab my papers.

Dean: Yes, yes, come in, Thomas. (Dr. Light enters and rummages through a pile of papers on a nearby desk.)

Jack: Please, I really need a job. I can be a cook or a janitor or…

Dean: (Interrupting.) I’m sorry, Mr. Joyce. These chronon abilities…

Light: (Looking up.) Hm?

Dean: I cannot risk the lives of any students here from your condition. I hope you understand my decision, Mr. Joyce. (Jack gets up, visibly frustrated.)

Jack: I understand. Thank you for your time. (Jack leaves the room. We cut to him walking down the hallway as Light quickly exits the Dean’s office and hurries after Jack.)

Light: Excuse me, sir! Wait! (Jack stops and turns around. Light reaches Jack.)

Jack: Is there a problem?

Light: Excuse me for eavesdropping, but those chronon abilities of yours, what are they?

Jack: Oh, they… (He pauses to think about it.) help me control time. Kinda.

Light: Fascinating. How did you acquire these powers?

Jack: I don’t think that’s any of your d*mn business. Look, if you’re just gonna question me… (He begins walking away.)

Light: Wait! (Jack stops.) Just hear me out. A few colleagues of mine are working on an experiment involving time manipulation. If we had someone experienced in that regard, we could very well change the world! Perhaps even solve our current crisis.

Jack: (He thinks it over.) Does it pay?

Light: (Chuckles.) I’ll make sure you’re well-endorsed for your time. If you’ll follow me, I’ll introduce you to the rest of our team. (Light begins walking away as Jack follows. The POV changes as we see Jack and Dr. Light through a telescope. A voice is heard.)

???: Ugh! I can’t believe this! (The POV changes again as we cut to see N. Trance holding a large telescope on the roof of a campus building.) Seems those chumps down at the lab found a new member of the team. They shut me out but hire any random shmup they find on the street. (He clenches his fist.) Two can play at that game. (He holds up his telescope again and glances around the area. He spots Jimmy de Santa (Grand Theft Auto) sitting on a bench and smoking.) No, too slow. (He swings the telescope around again and spots E. Gadd (Super Mario) walking down the sidewalk holding a stack of books.)

E. Gadd: Hehehe!

N. Trance: No no no! Too old. (The telescope swings around once more as he spots Blinx next to a large brick building, holding his TS-1000 Vacuum Cleaner up against it.) Hmmm, now that could work. (We cut to see N. Trance looking directly at the camera as he lowers his telescope and laughs.) Nyehehehe… (We cut to Blinx entering the building he was sweeping. We see a few people inside, not noticing him. Blinx quickly dives behind a sofa in the building, hiding.)

Blinx: It’s quiet… too quiet. (He looks at his vacuum.) No Time Monsters though. (A voice is suddenly heard.)

???: Oh, hello there, little guy. (Blinx’s eyes open wide in shock. He looks up from his vacuum to see a middle-aged woman with gray hair tied in a bun. She’s wearing glasses and formal clothing.) What brings you to our university?

Blinx: I… uh… well…

???: Oh! You can talk! You’ll have to forgive me. I’ve seen many new animals recently and not all of them are capable of speech. (She holds her hand out.) My name is Charlotte Walters. You? (Blinx gets up and shakes her hand.)

Blinx: I’m Blinx.

Charlotte: Lovely name. (She notices his vacuum.) I don’t suppose you’re here to clean up the place. Lord knows we could use a deep clean. (She leans down and whispers to Blinx.) I think the janitors may be on strike. (She winks.) Don’t tell them I said that though. (She giggles.)

Blinx: (Laughs.) No no, this is used for time sweeping. Ya see, I worked at a Time Factory. (He proudly holds up his vacuum.) These babies help us keep time moving steadily forward.

Charlotte: Oh, how nice. (Recognition suddenly flashes across her face.) Actually, some of our staff here are working on a time-related problem. Maybe you can help them out. One second. (She moves away to a desk on the other side of the room. We cut to see Blinx smiling as N. Trance peaks his head out from behind the doorway corner.)

N. Trance: Hey, kitty cat. (Blinx turns towards him.) Yeah. Got something for you. (Blinx walks up to him.)

Blinx: Uh… do I know you?

N. Trance: Uh… yeah, sure. Just look right here. (N. Trance opens up his claw hand to reveal a watch. It begins ticking.)

Blinx: A watch?

N. Trance: Shh! Just keep looking at it. (The camera shifts between Blinx and the watch, with the transitions becoming faster each time. As we cut back to Blinx for the last time, we see his eyes become spirals as he wavers back and forth. He is now hypnotized.) Egg-cellent! Now listen closely. You will find the lab of that dull Dr. Thomas Light. Then, you will nab that ruby they’ve been studying and hand it directly to me. Understood?

Blinx: (Monotone.) I understand.

N. Trance: Nyehehe! Perfect. (We hear the voice of Charlotte.)

Charlotte: Blinx?

N. Trance: (Surprised.) Gah! (We see N. Trance quickly run outside as he jumps off of the side of the staircase into nearby brush. We cut back to see Charlotte walk up to Blinx.)

Charlotte: There you are! I got us clearance to see that time experiment I told you about. Just follow me.

Blinx: (Monotone.) Okay. (We see the two of them walk down the stairs of the building as N. Trance pokes his head out of the brush. Leaves cover his face.)

N. Trance: Everything is going as planned. Nyehehehe…

(We cut to see Jack and Dr. Light walking down a basement staircase. Dr. Light leads Jack to a door.)

Light: Now, let me introduce you to our team. (Light opens the door. We see the underground laboratory, the same exact laboratory used by Master Mind during the prologue of the series. A large, unfinished machine is being worked on. A glowing gem of some kind, not the Shadow Crystal, is set on a table. The Professor (Ape Escape) walks up to Jack and Dr. Light.) This is our expert on time. We simply call him the Professor.)

Professor: How do you do?

Jack: Fine, thanks.

Light: Dr. Freeman, care to introduce yourself? (A figure who was studying the machine stands up, revealing himself to be Gordon Freeman. Gordon walks up to Jack and holds out his hand.)

Gordon: Gordon Freeman, theoretical physicist. (Jack shakes his hand.)

Jack: Jack Joyce, happy to be here.

Light: Mr. Joyce here has worked on time-altering devices before. I thought it would be wise to acquire his help for this experiment of ours. (To Gordon.) Dr. Freeman, would you like to catch Mr. Joyce up on what we know so far?

Gordon: (Pointing to the gem on the table.) That’s what’s called the Phantom Ruby. Theoretically, it should give one the ability to travel through both time and space. (He moves over to the Phantom Ruby.) It was experimented on decades ago by someone who used to work here until they disappeared.

Jack: Disappeared?

Gordon: No one knows where he went. (He holds up the Phantom Ruby, showing a small chunk of it is gone.) They only used a small portion of the ruby for his experiment, but that hasn’t been found either.

Light: (Turning to Jack.) So we’ve been tasked to continue this experiment, especially with our collective background. (A knock is suddenly heard at the door.) Hmm? (We cut to see Charlotte and Blinx enter the lab.)

Charlotte: Sorry to bother you, gentlemen.

Professor: Ms. Walters! What brings you down to our humble basement?

Charlotte: This is Blinx. (She gestures to the hypnotized cat.) Blinx here is a time sweeper. I thought he’d be interested in what you bunch are working on. (She walks slowly around the room, more somber.) I haven’t been down here in a long, long time.

Jack: (To Gordon.) Is she okay?

Gordon: (Not removing his eyes from a set of blueprints on the table.) The person who disappeared decades ago was her boyfriend. It’s a sore subject around campus.

Jack: You don’t say… (The sound of a vacuum is suddenly heard.) Huh? (We cut to Blinx as he uses his vacuum. It’s pointed at the table with the Phantom Ruby on it. To Blinx.) Hey, cat, what’s with the vacuum? (Blinx says nothing as the Phantom Ruby suddenly flies through the air.) Gah!

Gordon: Hey! That’s not a toy! (We see the Phantom Ruby fly into the vacuum as it jams into its opening. N. Trance’s voice is heard.)

N. Trance: Excellent work, my pet! (N. Trance bursts into the room as Blinx shoots the Phantom Ruby into his open hand.)

Light: You! I thought I told you to never come back to this lab!

N. Trance: That you did, doctor. However, I, N. Trance, refuse to give up my quest to travel through time and space! (Blinx snaps out of his trance.)

Blinx: Huh… what happened? (N. Trance puts the Phantom Ruby in the center of his suit.)

Charlotte: Put that down! (Charlotte, Light, and the Professor all run towards N. Trance. We see N. Trance extend his arm to a nearby bookcase and knock it over. Books spill everywhere as Charlotte and the scientists fall to the ground.) Oof!

N. Trance: See you all in the past! Nyehehehe! (A negative field begins emanating from N. Trance. Blinx is caught in it. We cut to see Gordon and Jack grab a crowbar on the table and a handgun respectively.)

Jack: Stop! (The two of them run into the field as a white light flashes in the lab. As the light fades, we see that N. Trance, Blinx, Jack, and Gordon have disappeared.)

Light: They’re gone!

Charlotte: No… not again…

(The scene changes to a prehistoric jungle. A stegosaurus is seen feeding on leaves in the background. A pterodactyl flies down from above as our heroes and villain appear in the middle of the jungle. They woozily examine their surroundings.)

N. Trance: It worked…

Blinx: Wh-what happened?! Where am I?

Gordon: Jurassic period. Approximately 163 million years ago. (Jack points his gun at N. Trance.)

Jack: What the f*ck did you do?!

N. Trance: Nyahahaha! I’ve taken us to the past so that I can rule this world before any of the current leaders can get in my way!

Jack: You’re insane! (To Gordon.) Doctor, crack that egg. (Gordon approaches with his crowbar as a roar is suddenly heard. Everyone looks towards the source of the roar as an allosaurus sticks its head out from the jungle trees. It spots everyone and roars again.)

N. Trance: Mommy…

Blinx: Run! (Everyone begins running through the jungle as the allosaurus gives chase. The allosaurus quickly begins to catch up as Gordon takes out his Gravity Gun and uses it to pick up and shoot nearby rocks at the allosaurus. This slows it down slightly, but it still keeps a good pace.)

Gordon: I can’t stop it!

Jack: (Pointing up ahead.) We gotta think of something quick! (The camera pans to see them running towards a large fallen tree, blocking their path.)

N. Trance: I’m too young to die! (Blinx holds up his vacuum and pushes buttons on it. A pink aura glows around the fallen tree. It suddenly stands back upright, sprouting leaves. The path is now unblocked.)

Blinx: (To the others.) Come on! (They run through as Jack turns around and fires at the allosaurus. The bullet hits next to its eye, making it stop and roar in pain. Our heroes and villain quickly dive into the jungle brush.)

Jack: We’re hidden. Now what?

N. Trance: Now I escape! (The Phantom Ruby activates again as the negative field surrounds everyone. White light flashes again as they’ve all disappeared.)

(The scene changes again to ancient Egypt. Our heroes and N. Trance all appear on the side of a pyramid as the sudden shift knocks them all down the side of it. As they hit the ground, a group of Egyptians surround them.)

Egyptian: Min hawula’?

N. Trance: (Gets up.) Silence! (His copter pack activates as he takes to the skies. The Egyptians run away in fear.) Nyahaha! (A bullet ricochets off of his metal suit.) Huh? (He sees Gordon with a gun pointed at him.) You gotta be yolking me. (N. Trance shoots his mechanical arm at Gordon. It hits his chest as he falls to the ground.)

Gordon: Gah! (More gunshots are heard as N. Trance looks over at Jack. N. Trance flies over and stops his copter pack.)

N. Trance: Stomp! (He drops towards Jack. As it looks like he’s about to crush Jack, Jack activates his Time Dodge to quickly disappear and reappear nearby.) What?!

Gordon: (Noticing.) How’d you do that?

Jack: (Holding up his hand.) Chronon powers. (The ground around N. Trance begins to distort as Jack performs a Time Blast. The area explodes, sending N. Trance up into the air and landing hard on the ground.)

N. Trance: Ow! No fair! (We see Blinx suck up a medium-sized stone with his vacuum. He shoots it at N. Trance.)

Blinx: Take that! (N. Trance punches through the brick with his mechanical hand. He then picks up a chunk of it and throws it into Jack’s chest, knocking him over.)

Jack: F*ck! Oh, I’m gonna feel that in the morning. (N. Trance activates the Phantom Ruby again.)

N. Trance: Bye bye! (The negative field forms around him. Gordon and Blinx run into it. Blinx uses his vacuum to suck Jack into the field before a white flash appears, with all of them gone.)

(We cut to all of them appearing on the campus at night, seemingly still in the past. We see Blinx, now with a green aura, run towards N. Trance as N. Trance shoots his mechanical arm at Blinx, knocking him down.)

N. Trance: Haha- (A VCR effect appears on screen as the scene reverses himself. When it stops, we see a green Blinx run towards N. Trance as the real Blinx runs a different direction. We see N. Trance knock the copy down.) Hahaha! (A vacuum sound is suddenly heard.) Huh? (N. Trance flies out of his mechanical suit as he becomes lodged in Blinx’s vacuum.)

Blinx: Not so powerful now, are you?

N. Trance: I’m not done yet! (The mechanical suit extends its arm and punches Jack down.)

Jack: Agh! (Gordon runs up and hits the suit with his crowbar. The suit spins around with its arms out and flings Gordon away. The arms then extend to grab N. Trance’s head as it runs towards a building.)

N. Trance: I win again!

Blinx: Catch him! (Blinx runs off as Jack and Gordon follow. We cut to see N. Trance going down the same stairs to the lab as before. We see our heroes reach the top of the stairs as time suddenly slows. A yellow aura surrounds Blinx as he slows time. Jack also slows time, causing cracks in the environment. They quickly run towards N. Trance as they block the door in front of him. Time goes back to normal.)

Jack: (Holding up his gun.) Stop your games, egg head!

N. Trance: Egg head?! You’ll pay for tha- (A thud is suddenly heard as N. Trance stops talking. His eyes go wide as he falls to the side, revealing Gordon holding his crowbar behind him. Gordon holds his crowbar with both hands.)

Gordon: That shut him up. (The camera pans to see Jack and Blinx as a sound is heard from the lab.)

Jack: Huh? (Jack opens the door to see Master Mind’s pod. Purple and black energy surround it as it suddenly disappears.) Was that…?

Gordon: The guy who disappeared. Except…

Jack: (Interrupting.) He didn’t just disappear. He used that Phantom Ruby.

Gordon: But he never came back. (We cut to Blinx next to N. Trance’s body.)

Blinx: Messing with time ain't no joke. This bozo is lucky we were here before he did something really stupid. (Blinx kicks N. Trance as the Phantom Ruby suddenly activates again.) Uh oh… (Negative energy surrounds all of them. White light covers the screen as the scene changes. As the light dissipates, we see our heroes now in Hell. A fiery landscape surrounds them. Our heroes look around.) Where are we?

Gordon: (Studying the environment.) The Phantom Ruby can not only travel through time, but through different areas in space.

Jack: Okay. So where does that put us? (Gordon moves to N. Trance’s body, leans down, and rips out the Phantom Ruby from the suit. He holds it as he takes in the vast landscape.)

Gordon: We’re in Hell. (The camera pans out as the screams of Hell echo around our heroes.)

End of Episode

Chapter 25: Interlude

(The episode begins at a college campus. A now college age Ezekiel/Master Mind is walking across the campus grounds with a professor. The professor is looking over a group of papers in his hands.)

Professor: I must say, your hypothesis is quite intriguing.

Zeke: Thank you, professor.

Professor: Now, your hypothesis is also incredibly farfetched. I mean, you’re talking about unfolding the multiverse.

Zeke: I know it sounds crazy, believe me, but I think it’s a topic worth exploring. I mean, think about it, there’s only a finite amount of materials on this planet. If we can find a way through the multiverse, then that means potentially infinite resources, cures for every disease, an answer to every problem

Professor: Yes, but the path to get there… (He pauses.) You have a brilliant mind, Ezekiel. With my powers in the department, I will grant you the materials needed to challenge this theory of yours.

Zeke: R-Really?

Professor: Curiosity often seems lost on the new generations, but I suppose it is hard to top mankind landing on the moon. The multiverse and its existence is a large question to answer, and I know you intend to answer it.

Zeke: Thank you, professor. I won’t let you down.

Professor: I know you won’t, Ezekiel. (They stop at a building.) And I wanted to offer you some help in your pursuit of this question. (A young woman exits from the building. We see that it is Charlotte, also college-aged.)

Charlotte: Professor Wellard!

Professor: Hello, Charlotte! (He turns to Zeke.) Ezekiel, may I introduce you to Charlotte Walters. She will be helping you in your lab study. She is a top student of mine.

Zeke: (Flustered.) I…uh…um…

Professor: Is there something wrong, Ezekiel?

Zeke: No! I…uh… thank you, professor.

Professor: Very well. I shall let the two of you become acquainted then. (He leaves. Charlotte looks over at Zeke and smiles.)

Charlotte: Ezekiel, nice to see you again.

Zeke: H-Hey, Charlotte. You look… nice. (He smiles.)

Charlotte: Thanks. Still playing video games?

Zeke: Yeah, yeah… when I have time.

Charlotte: The arcade near here just got a new pinball machine, so that’s where I’ve been spending all my time. At this rate, the pinball machine will cost me more than going here.

Zeke: (Laughs.) Must be some pinball machine.

Charlotte: Sure is. You know what? I should show you around the arcade. We could play a few games and then you can tell me about this project of yours.

Zeke: That sounds great! (They both laugh.) Yes, thank you. I would… um… love that.

Charlotte: Cool. Just follow me then. (They head off. The screen goes white as we go back to the present.)

(We cut to the middle of space as we see the Nefarious Space Station. We cut inside to see Dr. Nefarious at his computer console. Lawrence is seen in the background.)

Nefarious: Those squishies made a fool of me, Lawrence. A fool! (He slams his fist on the console.)

Lawrence: I’m sorry they made you see the truth, sir.

Nefarious: I’m not holding back anymore, Lawrence. My sights aren’t on Mars anymore. I’m going back to plan A. (He types away on the console. An image of Earth appears.) Earth will soon be mine!

Lawrence: Feeling ambitious, are we?

Nefarious: Without that Lombax and his tin companion around, nothing will stand in my way! Especially with my new secret weapon. (He wrings his hands evilly.) Mwahahahaha!

Lawrence: Secret weapon?

Nefarious: Yes, Lawrence. During my travels in space, I happened upon something that will tip the scales in my favor. A monster so powerful, that nothing will stand in its way as I use it to destroy the Earth! (He types on the console again as video footage of an area inside the Space Station is shown. We see Ridley, head still cut off, laying on a large medical table. Robotic arms are seen above the body, as well as a table of mechanical body parts to the side.) This will be very, veeeeery interesting.

End of Episode

Chapter 26: Haunting Ground

(The episode begins at night looking at a partially destroyed, desolate town. A large clock tower stands in the center, with the face of the clock partially hanging off of the tower. A full moon is seen in the sky. We cut to the ground to see Shemums (Kid Icarus) slithering across the ground. We cut inside of the clock tower to see a woman and a dog walking up the clock tower’s staircase. We zoom in to see that the woman is Fiona Belli alongside her dog, Hewie.)

Fiona: C’mon, Hewie. Those things that we saw fly into this tower must be at the top. (Hewie barks.) Shh! We don’t want anyone to know that we’re here. (Fiona and Hewie continue up the staircase. We cut to Fiona getting to the top of the tower, hiding herself behind the doorway to the main room. Hewie stands close to her. An elevated platform is in the middle of the partially destroyed room. Voices are heard inside. Whispering.) Someone’s there. (The camera cuts to the elevated platform as we see Zarok holding onto his trident. In front of Zarok are Blinky, Inky, Pinky, and Clyde (all from Pac-Man).)

Zarok: Is there anyone left in this town who can oppose me?

Blinky: (Shrugs.) Might be a straggler or two in there, but this place is basically deserted.

Clyde: (Elbowing Pinky.) Yeah, we really scared the pants off of those guys.

Zarok: Excellent. With an army of monsters at my disposal, no man shall dare challenge me for power over this puny town.

Inky: And then the world, right?

Zarok: In due time. For now, we must keep our sights here. (The howl of a wolf suddenly echoes across the town. We cut to Hewie, whose ears perk up at the sound of it. Hewie immediately begins barking and sprints down the clock tower.)

Fiona: Hewie! (We cut to the ghosts as Pinky sees Fiona. She points at her.)

Pinky: We’ve got an intruder! (Zarok turns to see Fiona. She turns around and starts running down the clock tower after Hewie. Zarok points his trident towards where she was.)

Zarok: After her! Don’t let her get away! (Blinky pretends to roll up his sleeves, but he doesn’t actually have any.)

Blinky: You heard ‘im! Let’s grab that girly! (The ghosts float quickly through the doorway, beginning their chase towards Fiona.)

(We cut to a different part of town as we see a group of zombies (Half-Life) shambling through the street, screaming. Overturned cars and small fires also litter the area. Suddenly, a soda bottle flies through the air and hits one of the zombies in the head. The zombie makes a guttural sound and looks towards where the soda bottle came from. The camera pans to see Cooper Chance with a pool cue in one hand, while his other hand throws another soda bottle up and down. Cooper throws the second bottle.)

Cooper: Yah! (The bottle hits another zombie in the head and shatters. The zombie falls onto its back. Cooper then runs towards the rest of the zombies and stabs his pool cue into one. A zombie behind him swipes at him, but Cooper steps away as it lunges.) Woah! (Cooper breaks the pool cue in half, with one half still in a zombie. Cooper stabs the other half into the head of the zombie that swiped at him, killing it. He then swings the zombie attached to the pool into the last zombie, causing them both to fall over.) That should take care of those ghoulies. (The camera pans over the zombies’ corpses.) Strange. These ones look way scarier than the ones I usually fight.

(Another howl echoes through the town as Cooper gasps and looks around. As he’s looking around, the headcrab on the zombie he stabbed in the chest gets up and jumps closer to Cooper. As the headcrab is about to jump again, Hewie suddenly runs past and tramples over it, killing it. Cooper turns to see Hewie dart past towards the howl.)

Cooper: Whose dog is that? (Cooper checks his surroundings before running after Hewie.)

(We cut to one of the houses in town as a figure suddenly flies through the window of the house. We see the figure land on a table in the house’s living room, breaking it. The figure woozily gets up, revealing himself to be Yugo Ogami. Yugo looks behind him to see a werewolf (The Elder Scrolls) walking up to the house. It howls at Yugo.)

Yugo: Here we go! (Yugo runs towards the window and jumps through it, performing a dive kick. This knocks the werewolf back a bit as Yugo hits the ground. The werewolf tries to claw at him, but Yugo rolls out of the way and gets up, holding his fists out in front of him.) Show me what you’ve got! (The werewolf turns towards Yugo and growls. We then cut to see Hewie barking and running down the street. We see as he reaches the werewolf and bites at its left leg. Yugo looks at this confused.) Huh? (The werewolf hits Hewie off of him as Hewie whines in pain. We see as he hits the wall of the house Yugo was hit into. We hear the voice of Cooper.)

Cooper: Hey! (The werewolf turns around as it's hit in the face with an egg. We cut to see Cooper run into the battle as he kneels down towards Hewie.) You okay, boy? (Hewie looks up at Cooper and whines. A shadow suddenly looms over them as Cooper looks up and gasps. The camera pans around to see the werewolf looking at them. It growls and continues towards them. We cut to Yugo as a determined look crosses his face. He runs towards the werewolf.)

Yugo: Hah! (Yugo runs behind the werewolf and wraps his hands around its waist. He then does a backflip and slams the werewolf’s head against the ground. Yugo lets go and stands up. He then jumps on the werewolf, slamming his elbow into its chest. The werewolf whines and gets up, hurt. It then runs off, away from our heroes. Yugo runs towards Cooper and Hewie.) Are you two alright?

Cooper: I’m fine. (Looking towards Hewie.) He’s a little scratched, but I think he’s alright. (Hewie barks in agreement.)

Yugo: What are you two doing out here so late at night? It’s dangerous with all these monsters.

Cooper: (Getting up.) I’m trying to get out of here. There’s Ghoulies prowling every street.

Yugo: (Thinks for a second.) I’ll help you out, kid. Have something I can call you?

Cooper: I’m Cooper.

Yugo: Great. I’m Yugo. (Points at Hewie.) What about your dog’s name?

Cooper: Oh, he’s not my dog. I saw him running through town. I thought he might be a stray. (Hewie suddenly bolts up and runs a short distance. He then stops, looks back at Cooper and Yugo, and barks.) What is it, boy?

Yugo: If I didn’t know any better, I’d think that stray wants us to follow him.

Cooper: (Runs towards Hewie.) Maybe he knows a way out! (Yugo is startled for a second before he runs off to join Cooper.)

(We cut to a different part of town as a police cruiser drives down the street. It comes to a stop as the camera pans, revealing the road being blocked by upturned, flaming cars. We see Leon, Simon, and Alexandra exit the car and examine the flaming cars.)

Leon: D*mn it. This is Raccoon City all over again.

Simon: This is much worse than I thought. Those demons are destroying everything they come across.

Alexandra: Let’s turn back. There’s gotta be another road that leads out of here. (As she says that, a telephone pole behind the police cruiser falls on top of it. As this happens, our heroes turn towards it. Leon takes out his handgun.) Sh*t…

Leon: We’ll go the rest of the way on foot then. Maybe we can find a new car.

Simon: Stay wary. It is quiet, but I fear that we may still be outnumbered by fiends. (We suddenly hear the voice of Blinky from far away.)

Blinky: There she is! (Our heroes look up. The camera cuts to see the four ghosts flying above the town. They don’t see our heroes, but seemingly see something else that catches their eyes.) Make sure she doesn’t get away. (We cut back to Leon, Simon, and Alexandra.)

Alexandra: What are those things?

Simon: Some kind of demon. (Simon takes out the Vampire Killer.) I suggest that we investigate what they’re after.

Leon: (Readying his gun.) Let’s go. (The three of them run off. We cut to see Fiona running down the streets of the town. A Dracky (Dragon Quest) flies past Fiona as she covers her face. She continues running until Blinky and Pinky suddenly appear in front of her.)

Fiona: Aaah!

Pinky: Where do ya think you’re going? (Fiona begins backing up, but Inky and Clyde appear behind her.)

Clyde: Nuh uh! Can’t go that way!

Inky: You gotta come with us. Boss wants to see you.

Blinky: Yeah. Wants to see you off, that is. Hehehe! (He points to Clyde.) Grab her! (Clyde grabs both of Fiona’s arms and holds them behind her back.)

Fiona: Let me go! (She tries to escape. Suddenly, a glass bottle flies through the air into the back of Clyde. It bursts into flames, only affecting Clyde.)

Clyde: Yaaaaaaah! Hot! Hot! (When the flames disappear, only Clyde’s eyes are left as they fly away from the area. Fiona is now free.)

Blinky: What the-! (The camera pans to see Leon, Simon, and Alexandra. Simon is holding a bottle of holy water. Leon is armed with his gun, and Alexandra with her shotgun.)

Simon: Holy water, enemy to all manner of ghouls and demons.

Blinky: So you wanna play hardball, eh? We can do that. (He points at the three. To Inky and Pinky.) Get ‘em! (Inky and Pinky float towards our heroes. We see Inky pick up and fly away with Alexandra.)

Alexandra: Whoooaaah! (Pinky spins around and torpedoes into Leon and Simon, knocking them over. We cut to Alexandra and Inky as they float through the air.)

Inky: How’d you like to fly? (Inky flings Alexandra into the air as she screams. Suddenly, Blinky flies in and catches her.)

Blinky: Nice throw, Inky! Coming back at ya! (Blinky throws Alexandra as Inky catches her. We cut back to Leon and Simon as Pinky taunts them.)

Pinky: Nah nah nah nah nah! (Leon shoots at Pinky, but the bullets go through her.) You can’t shoot a ghost, silly. (Simon readies a bottle of holy water, but Pinky tackles into him, causing the water to fly into the air. We cut to Fiona as she dives onto the ground and catches the bottle.)

Fiona: Gotcha! (We cut to Simon attempting to whip Pinky, but she gracefully phases through the whip each time he uses it.)

Pinky: Gonna have to try harder than tha- (Before she can finish, she suddenly bursts into flames. Soon, only her eyes are left as they float away. We see Fiona behind Pinky as she floats away. She runs up to Simon.)

Fiona: Do you have any more of that water?

Simon: Merely one bottle. (He takes out his last bottle of holy water.)

Leon: We need to get Alex down first. (We cut to Alexandra being thrown to Blinky.)

Alexandra: Put me down! (Blinky looks down to see Pinky is gone.)

Blinky: You want put down? Fine, I’ll put ya down! (Blinky throws Alexandra towards the other heroes. She screams.)

Leon: I’ve got her! (Leon runs towards where Alexandra is landing. She crashes into Leon, with both of them falling to the ground.)

Alexandra: Thanks, Leon.

Leon: No problem. (They both get up, hurt. Simon and Fiona run up to them.)

Simon: Ms. Roivas, may I see your rounds?

Alexandra: Uh… yeah, sure. (Alexandra takes out her shotgun shells. We cut to Inky and Blinky floating towards our heroes, with Inky right behind Blinky.)

Blinky: You’re gonna get it now! (We cut to Alexandra pointing her shotgun at the ghosts.) You really think you can shoot a ghost?

Alexandra: It’s more of a delivery system. (She shoots at the ghosts. As the bullet flies into the ghosts, they burst into flames. Soon they are only eyes and fly away. We cut back to our heroes.) Quick thinking there, Simon.

Simon: Thank our new companion. (He gestures towards Fiona.) It was her idea.

Leon: Who are you anyway? What are you doing here?

Fiona: My name is Fiona Belli. Me and my dog, Hewie, got stuck in this town when those monsters attacked. (She points towards the clock tower.) The one behind it all is in the clock tower. You have to help me get rid of him.

Alexandra: Don’t worry, kid. We’ll help you. (To Leon.) Right?

Leon: (To Fiona.) We’ll take care of this guy. (Our four heroes start towards the clock tower.)

(We cut to Cooper and Yugo as Hewie leads them to the base of the clock tower. Hewie barks at them.)

Cooper: Looks like he wants in the clock tower. (Cooper opens the door to the inside as Hewie runs in. He starts up the stairs before barking again.) C’mon, Yugo. (Cooper runs in as Yugo follows. We cut to them scaling the stairs to the top of the tower.)

Yugo: Why does this dog wanna go to the top of the clock tower?

Cooper: Dunno. Maybe this is where it lives? (We see them reach the top room of the clock tower and look around.) There’s nothing here. (We hear Zarok’s voice.)

Zarok: Who dares enter my abode?! (Cooper and Yugo turn towards the elevated platform where Zarok is as Hewie growls in its direction. The camera pans to see Zarok.) More fools who have come to challenge me, I presume? You have some nerves.

Cooper: Yeesh! What happened to your face?

Zarok: This is just how I look, child.

Yugo: Who are you?

Zarok: Zarok! I am the mightiest necromancer in all of Gallowmere, and I shall take this realm as my own!

Cooper: Oh yeah? You and what army?

Zarok: The army of the undead! (Lightning erupts from Zarok’s trident as the scene changes to outside. Lightning flows into the sky. We cut to Leon’s group walking to the clock tower as a hand suddenly erupts from the ground.)

Leon: Woah! (A zombie (Call of Duty) comes out of the ground as Leon shoots it in the head. It falls to the ground. More zombies begin coming out of the ground and shamble towards our heroes. Leon and Alexandra shoot at them as they get closer. We see Simon’s whip decapitate one. We cut back to Cooper and Yugo.)

Cooper: You won’t get away with this, you hag!

Zarok: Won’t I? (Zarok begins laughing maniacally as we cut back to Cooper, Yugo, and Hewie. A growing shadow looms over them. We cut back to Zarok to see that he’s transformed into his beast form. He spits acid at our heroes as it falls in front of Hewie. Hewie whimpers.)

Cooper: Run! (Cooper, Yugo, and Hewie run back down the stairs as Zarok follows, destroying everything in his path. We cut back to Leon’s group as a commotion is heard inside the clock tower.)

Fiona: What’s that sound? (Suddenly, Cooper, Yugo, and Hewie sprint through the door as Zarok bursts through where they just came from. Zarok rears onto his hind legs as he observes the heroes. Hewie runs up to Fiona.) Hewie! (She leans down and pets him.)

Alexandra: What the hell is that thing?!

Cooper: Some ugly guy who wants to take over the world! (Leon and Simon continue to attack zombies in the background. Yugo takes a step towards Zarok and transforms into his wolf form. He howls at Zarok.) Woah! (Hewie barks. Yugo runs towards Zarok and slides underneath his legs. Zarok returns to all fours to follow Yugo. Yugo turns around and swipes at Zarok’s face. Zarok retaliates by headbutting Yugo into the clock tower wall.)

Fiona: Oh no!

Cooper: We gotta help Yugo! (Cooper and Alexandra run towards the battle. We cut to Simon throwing an axe into a zombie’s side. A zombie shambles up behind him, but is tackled and mauled by Hewie. Fiona runs in next to him.)

Fiona: Good boy! (We then cut to Leon shooting at zombies around him.)

Leon: Aim for the head! (The camera pans behind Leon as we see Cooper shooting his Holy Water Squirter at Zarok. Zarok rears back a bit from it before spitting acid at Cooper. Cooper stumbles backwards to avoid it.)

Cooper: Agh! (We hear gunshots as a look of pain crosses Zarok’s face. We pan to see Alexandra shooting at Zarok.)

Alexandra: Get the f*ck out of here! (This angers Zarok, who swipes Alexandra over with his tail. We then see Yugo jump onto Zarok’s head and swipe at his face, but Zarok bucks him off. We cut away to see a zombie grab onto Leon.)

Leon: Sh*t! (We hear barking as Hewie runs in and grabs its leg with his teeth. He growls as he pulls the zombie off. Fiona then runs in and stomps on the zombie’s face.)

Fiona: Nice work, Hewie. (We cut to Simon and Cooper as they throw projectiles at Zarok. Simon throws crosses while Cooper throws empty bottles.)

Simon: Vanquish the monster! (Zarok backs up. We then see Yugo run up to Zarok’s tail and grab it. He begins to spin Zarok around by his tail. Eventually, he lets go as Zarok crashes into the clock tower. He transforms back into his normal form.)

Zarok: How could this happen? You all will pay for this. (A rumbling sound is suddenly heard as everyone looks up at the clock tower. Bricks begin to fall from it as it begins to crumble.)

Leon: Move! Now! (Our heroes all run from the clock tower. We see Zarok look up at it.)

Zarok: Oh dear… (The screen goes black as we hear the sound of the clock tower falling. We cut to see the fallen clock tower with all of our heroes watching it. Yugo is back in his normal form.)

Yugo: That should take care of him.

Fiona: (Petting Hewie. To Yugo.) Thank you again for taking care of Hewie.

Yugo: Don’t thank me. (Points at Cooper.) Thank him.

Cooper: Aw, it was nothing. Little guy just needed some help. (Hewie barks.)

Leon: The town should hopefully be safe without that thing we fought.

Alexandra: We have to keep moving. Things still aren’t quite right.

Cooper: (Pulling on Leon’s sleeve.) Hey, mister, would you mind if we came with you? It’s probably safer if we stick together.

Simon: (Walking up to Leon.) The child is right. It would be best if we all stayed together if there are still monsters near. (To Cooper.) And he is quite the young warrior. Most impressive. (Cooper smiles.)

Leon: You’re right. Let’s just get going before more ghosts find us. Or worse. (Hewie barks. We cut to see our heroes walking through the ruined town, the full moon still hanging above them.)

End of Episode

Chapter 27: Biohazard

(The episode begins by looking at a snowy mountaintop. We see a Delibird (Pokemon) building a snowman in the snow as a helicopter flies past as the Delibird looks up at it.)

Delibird: Delibird! (The camera cuts again to see a facility on the snowy landscape. The helicopter flies above for a bit before descending upon the facility. We cut to see a landing area in the facility as the helicopter lands on a platform labeled with a large letter H. We cut ahead in time as we see Albert Wesker exit the now powered-off helicopter and begin walking through the area. An unknown voice begins to speak.)

???: I hope you found your journey easy, Albert.

Wesker: (Smirks.) Can’t say I have much experience piloting a helicopter, but the journey was easy enough. (The camera pans to see Master Mind standing in front of Wesker. An unknown figure is standing behind him, concealed in shadows.)

Master Mind: With this new discovery, I needed someone experienced to take the helm. Someone who is able to use this new… virus… to its fullest potential.

Wesker: (Gestures behind Master Mind.) Who’s that? Security?

Master Mind: For me, not for you. (Gestures for the figure to come forward. It’s revealed that the figure is a shadowy version of Solid Snake with yellow eyes and a dark aura. He’s holding a pistol in his hand.) This is Solid Snake, a mercenary. They call him the man who makes the impossible possible. He is assigned to be your security force should something go wrong here.

Wesker: (Skeptical.) Just one man?

Master Mind: I think Snake will prove himself worthy of being a one-man army. (Wesker approaches Snake and looks him in the eyes. Snake’s expression doesn’t change.)

Wesker: Heh, we’ll see about that.

Master Mind: Follow me. (Master Mind turns and leaves the area. Wesker follows as Snake follows behind Wesker.)

(We cut to a laboratory filled with equipment and a large, covered tube in the center of the back wall of the room. Master Mind, Wesker, and Snake walk into the room. Master Mind gestures to the covered tube.)

Master Mind: This, Albert, is why I called you here. A virus that could very well put us at the top of the chain of commands here. A virus that rivals the t-virus that affected your home.

Wesker: How could that be possible?

Master Mind: This specimen contains the ability to take over the body of a host and make it bend to its will. This could be one of many of the same creature, and by using it to our advantage, we can take control of the human race.

Wesker: Let me see it. (Master Mind floats over to a control panel and presses buttons on it. The tube’s covering goes away, showing Dark Matter (Kirby) floating behind the glass. Wesker looks at it in intrigue.) What is it?

Master Mind: It’s called Dark Matter. I was able to conceal it and bring it here. (The camera cuts to see Dark Matter studying the villains.) I need you to find a way to harness its abilities. Find a way to gather more of its kind. This study is crucial to our mission. (We cut to Master Mind floating up to Wesker.) Can I count on you to finish this task, Albert?

Wesker: I’ll handle this. (Wesker approaches the Dark Matter. He then turns and gestures to Snake.) You. Start running tests on the specimen. Find out exactly what it is. (We cut to Snake nodding as he approaches a table in the laboratory.)

Master Mind: I shall be back in due time. Do not disappoint me. (Master Mind opens a portal behind him and steps through it. The camera cuts back to Wesker as he continues looking at Dark Matter.)

Wesker: Let’s get to work.

(We cut a few days forward in time. The view is that of a POV shot of the facility with a green filter over it, as if being looked at through night vision goggles. Orange areas are highlighted on chimney stacks on the facility. An unknown voice speaks.)

???: So, this is where those strange sightings have been occuring. (The POV shifts around, as if looking for something.) Some kind of shadow that made itself known to the natives around here. (Suddenly, a shadowy blur is seen through the POV as it floats around the facility. The night vision goggles are unable to see it properly.) Well, I’ll be d*mned. (The shot changes to look at Sam Fisher crouched and wearing multi-vision goggles. He stands up.) Something really is going on in that building. (We go back to his POV. The shadow goes back inside the facility.)

Sam: Whatever it is, the heat sensor isn’t picking it up. Could be a weapon of some sort. A drone maybe. (His sight shifts again as he sees a heat signature approaching the facility.) Huh, looks like I’m not alone. (We cut to Sam taking off his multi-vision goggles and taking out his Five-seveN.) Quick and easy. (He takes off towards the facility.)

(We cut to the outside walls of the facility as Sam walks through the snow around it. We see that he’s following a set of footprints in the snow. The footprints stop as he looks up and sees an open grate on the side of the wall.)

Sam: Huh. (He jumps up and grabs the edge where the grate opens up.) Alley-oop. (He crawls into the ventilation system.)

(We cut to inside the facility. The hallways are dimly lit with no one around. Suddenly, a grate in the ceiling bursts open and a pair of legs hang out from them. A figure drops onto the floor and holds out a pistol with a silencer. We see that the figure is Joanna Dark as she looks around for any enemies. Once she realizes that she’s alone, she begins walking down the hallway. From behind Joanna, Sam drops silently from the same grate and approaches Joanna from behind. Joanna stops for a moment as Sam takes the opportunity to put Joanna in a headlock and put his pistol to her head.)

Sam: Don’t wiggle, it’ll get you killed.

Joanna: Who the hell are you supposed to be?

Sam: I’m gonna be asking the questions here. Unless you’re feeling bulletproof, I suggest you drop the weapon. (Joanna holds up her hands and drops her pistol.) Thanks, darling. (Suddenly, Joanna grabs Sam and brings him over her head, slamming him onto the ground. She grabs her pistol.)

Joanna: I am not your “darling”.

Sam: (Groans.) Point taken. (Joanna shoots as Sam rolls out of the way. He gets up and returns fire. His first shot misses, but the second shot hits Joanna’s hand, forcing her gun out of it. She clutches her hand.)

Joanna: Gah! (Sam continues firing as Joanna does a forward roll towards him. She gets up right in front of Sam. Joanna forcefully moves Sam’s hands upwards as he fires. He hits a light on the ceiling which makes a loud shattering sound.)

(We cut to Wesker and Snake in the laboratory. Wesker is at a table with equipment as Snake stands behind him. The sound of shattered glass is then heard from afar. Wesker turns around before addressing Snake.)

Wesker: Check the halls. Make sure no one has gotten in. And if someone’s here, kill them immediately. (Snake nods before equipping his own pistol and silently exiting the laboratory.)

(We cut back to Sam and Joanna as Joanna punches Sam in the face. Sam reels back and leans his hands on the wall behind him. Joanna then grabs his head and slams it into the wall.)

Sam: Agh! (Sam covers his head with his left hand and shoulders Joanna in the head with his right shoulder. Joanna stumbles back as Sam kicks Joanna in the stomach. She falls to the floor. Sam points his gun at Joanna as she grabs her own gun, pointing it at Sam. They both pause, breathing heavily. Sam talks to himself.) You’re getting sloppy, Sam.

Joanna: Either tell me everything that’s going on in this building or I’ll blow your f*cking brains out.

Sam: The hell are you talking about? I’m here to secure the area of threats, not endorse them.

Joanna: So you’re not part of this operation?

Sam: F*ck no I’m not part of this operation. (Joanna lowers her weapon.)

Joanna: Then killing you won’t accomplish anything. (Joanna slowly gets up as Sam lowers his weapon.) I’m here the same reason you are. Sightings of some kind of unknown flying object seen by the people who live around here. Possibly dangerous, other-worldly. I was asked to investigate by a worried family.

Sam: So you’ve seen it too?

Joanna: Only when I arrived here. I needed to get a closer look. It could be some kind of bioweapon.

Sam: Are you an agent of some sort?

Joanna: I’m Agent Joanna Dark. Part of the Carrington Institute.

Sam: Agent Sam Fisher. Fourth Echelon.

Joanna: Well, Agent Fisher, perhaps we could assist each other on this mission.

Sam: Thanks, but no thanks. I think I’ll be better off alone. (A clacking sound is suddenly heard on the floor.) Huh? (Sam and Joanna look down to see a grenade. Sam tackles Joanna to the ground.) Get down! (The grenade blows up, sending Sam and Joanna far back. The camera pans to see Snake armed with his pistol looking at the explosion. He begins approaching where Sam and Joanna were. We cut to see Sam and Joanna on the ground. Sam is on top of Joanna unconscious as Joanna pushes Sam off of her and onto his back.)

Joanna: Agent Fisher? Agent Fisher! (She turns to see Snake walking towards her through the smoke. She shoots through the fog, hitting Snake in his side. Snake grunts and holds onto his side. Joanna continues to shoot wildly through the blinding smoke. She stops and turns to Sam as he groans.) Agent Fisher, thank God. Thought we lost you there.

Sam: (Groggily.) Gonna take a lot more than that to kill me. (Sam and Joanna get up and walk through the smoke, weapons raised. As the smoke dissipates, we see a cardboard box where Snake was before.) Really? (Sam fires at the box as Snake suddenly drops from above. He lands on Joanna and brandishes a knife.)

Snake: Goodnight. (Snake attempts to stab Joanna as she blocks his arm with her own. Sam points his gun at Snake as he suddenly throws his knife into Sam’s chest.)

Sam: Sh*t! (He grabs where the knife made impact. Joanna continues to struggle with Snake as Snake throws her into the wall. She falls to the ground. Snake approaches Joanna and begins slamming her head repeatedly into the ground. We see Joanna’s face become bloodied as Snake continues. Snake holds Joanna’s face up to his.)

Snake: Just another body to bury. At least you died fighti- (Snake is suddenly cut off. The shadows around him begin to disappear as he falls onto his face, his knife from before lodged into his back. We see Sam holding his hand over a bloody hole in his chest standing above Snake’s body.)

Sam: Getting a little cocky there. (He falls to his knees as Joanna crawls over to him.)

Joanna: Sam, you’re hurt badly.

Sam: I’ll be alright. This’ll hurt like hell tomorrow though. (Snake’s body begins to move again. He begins to get up.) You gotta be kidding me. (Sam holds up his gun.)

Joanna: Hang on. Something’s different. That shadow around him disappeared. (We see Snake pull the bloodied knife out of his back as he turns towards Sam and Joanna, now back to normal.)

Snake: Where the hell am I? (Sam and Joanna remain silent for a second.)

Joanna: Who are you?

Snake: I’m Solid Snake, and we’re in danger.

(We cut back to Wesker as he observes the Dark Matter.)

Wesker: This is going quite nicely. Soon the rest of your kind will join us and we will be ready to begin a metamorphosis for mankind. (Dark Matter seems excited by the idea.) We will become gods to the human race, ruling this entire universe with the help of Master Mind. Us, and that brainwashed buffoon Snake. (He pauses.) Speaking of, he should be back by now. (He reaches for a tablet on the table next to him. We see security camera footage broadcasted on it. He taps on the tablet as he goes from one camera to the next. He then goes to a camera view that is damaged, with the image flickering in and out. On the camera view is Snake, Sam, and Joanna. We cut away as we see the damaged security camera. The view pans out as we see Snake talking to Sam and Joanna.)

Sam: So some kind of alternate universe entity is threatening this entire world?

Snake: Yes, Master Mind. He must have found some way to take control of my mind if what you said about me is true. If that’s the case for me, then it’s likely that he has others like me working for him.

Joanna: And you don’t know anything about the reason you’re here?

Snake: My last memory is of Master Mind in the warzone he made from a city. I thought we had won, but he must have had some kind of contingency plan. This shadow you saw could be his doing.

Sam: Let’s proceed with some caution then. (Joanna nods in agreement.)

(We cut to the three of them walking through the facility, guns at the ready. They reach the entrance of the laboratory as Snake stops. He signals the other to stop as well. Snake crouches down and looks inside. The tube that Dark Matter was in previously is open, but no one is in there. He enters silently as Sam and Joanna follow.)

Snake: Nothing here.

Wesker: I wouldn’t say that. (Snake, Sam, and Joanna quickly turn around with their guns drawn as they see Wesker in the doorway.) “The man who makes the impossible possible”, and yet, you fail to stop two intruders. What a joke.

Snake: Who are you? How do you know that?

Wesker: I am Albert Wesker, Solid Snake. Leader of the 3rd Organization and associate of Master Mind. You were previously a security precaution of mine, but it seems that you have outlived your usefulness. (All three heroes shoot at Wesker, but he uses his super speed to dodge every bullet.)

Sam: What the hell?

Wesker: You really thought you could kill me with your primitive technology? Allow me to show you true power. (Wesker snaps his finger as Dark Matter in its Dark Matter Blade form descends from above. It points its sword at our heroes.) This is the future of the human race. Dark Matter. It grew so angry at Snake’s turn against us that it evolved into this new form.

Joanna: We won’t let you do this.

Wesker: Then try and stop me. (Wesker speeds towards Joanna and kicks her across the room. She lands on her back before getting up to fight Wesker. Dark Matter Blade charges towards Sam and Snake and slashes at them. Sam pushes Snake down as they dodge out of the way and land on the ground. They both shoot at Dark Matter Blade, which angers it. It shoots sword beams at Snake and Sam as they scramble to their feet and run from it.)

(We cut to Joanna and Wesker as Wesker punches Joanna repeatedly in the face. Joanna catches one of Wesker’s fists and uppercuts him. She then tries to kick Wesker, but he catches her leg. Joanna then jumps into the air and uses her other leg to hit Wesker’s head and bring them both to the floor.)

Wesker: You pest! (Joanna jumps into the air and wipes blood off of her face.)

Joanna: Is that all you’ve got? (We cut back to Snake and Sam as they fire at Dark Matter Blade. Dark Matter Blade shoots a fireball at the two of them. The fireball hits Snake and knocks him back into the laboratory doorway. He sees flames on his leg as he pats it out. He then looks up at the doorway.)

Snake: Huh? (We cut back to Sam as he runs around Dark Matter Blade while shooting. Dark Matter Blade shoots more sword beams at Sam. Sam jumps over a nearby table and flips it to shield himself.)

Sam: Once an agent… (The camera cuts to see Dark Matter Blade begin to fly towards where Sam is hiding before a missile hits its side and sends it tumbling. We cut back to Wesker using his super speed as he dodges Joanna’s bullets. He then gets behind Joanna and grabs her by the neck before throwing her into lab equipment.)

Joanna: Agh! I need some way to slow him down. (Wesker suddenly appears in front of her again as she gets up.)

Wesker: Give up?

Joanna: Not a chance. (Joanna throws a punch which Wesker dodges. This continues as Wesker continuously dodges Joanna’s attacks. He then picks her up by her neck again.)

Wesker: You have some nerve going against a god. (A shot is suddenly heard as Wesker looks down at his leg, which now has a tranquilizer dart in it.)

Joanna: The powers of a god are nice, but the god complex can really sting. (Joanna delivers a kick into Wesker’s chest as he lets go of her. He begins to limp away as Joanna catches up and delivers multiple punches into Wesker’s face. He falls back into the doorway of the laboratory as Dark Matter Blade joins him.)

Wesker: You idiots. It will take a lot more than a tranquilized leg to stop me. (Snake pulls out a remote detonator.)

Snake: Now! (He presses the detonator as multiple mines set on and around the doorway fire off. Smoke billows into the laboratory. As the smoke clears, we see a pile of rubble over where Wesker and Dark Matter Blade were.)

Sam: Quick thinking there, Snake. (Joanna goes over to one of the tables.)

Snake: That should hopefully be the last of them.

Joanna: Hey, look what I found. (Snake and Sam look over at Joanna as she holds multiple files.) It’s about that Dark Matter creature. Apparently, the plan was to use it and others like it to take over the bodies of humans across the globe.

Sam: Is that possible?

Joanna: Looks like it. It has the ability to possess a host. All Wesker needed was to get it on his side.

Snake: How’d he do that?

Joanna: (Pauses.) It just wanted a friend. Wesker took that role.

Sam: Well, it’s a good thing we got rid of them. (Suddenly the sound of a helicopter is heard.)

Snake: Don’t speak too soon. (Our heroes run towards the rubble and begin to remove it. We cut to them exiting the facility as they see a helicopter flying across the mountainside.)

Sam: They got away.

Joanna: Wesker and the Dark Matter are stronger than they look.

Sam: We need to go after them. (Sam begins to leave, but Snake grabs onto his shoulder.)

Snake: We need to patch up first. We’ll be no use to the world if we’re dead.

Sam: Yeah, I guess you’re right.

Joanna: Let’s search the area for first aid, then we’ll go.

Sam: (To Snake.) And you can tell us more about Master Mind. Maybe Wesker has notes on him in his lab. (Our heroes return to the inside of the facility. We cut to inside the helicopter to see Wesker piloting it. Dark Matter is back in its normal form.)

Wesker: D*mnit. Master Mind’s security became a danger to our plan. Perhaps Master Mind’s intrusions will be considered unnecessary going forward. (Dark Matter looks at Wesker.) It doesn’t matter. It’s time we move on to the next phase of the plan. (Wesker looks at Dark Matter.) Time for the virus to take full effect. (We cut to see the helicopter flying away as we fade out.)

End of Episode

Chapter 28: The House of the Dead

(The episode begins looking at a dark forest. Sounds of wildlife are heard in the background as the camera focuses on a Spinarak (Pokemon) sitting next to a rock.)

Spinarak: Spinarak! (The beam of a flashlight suddenly shines onto the Spinarak as it gets nervous and scurries behind the rock to hide.) Rak! (The camera turns to see Alan Wake holding a flashlight as he walks through the forest. Alan monologues to himself in his head, which is represented by text in italics.)

Alan: The darkness became unavoidable as I felt my way through this new nightmare. This world was a reflection of my own, populated by strange creatures that were grotesque perversions of the familiar. I didn’t like it. I needed to find Alice. (Alan continues walking as he comes across a clearing in the forest. As he turns towards it, his flashlight reveals a Paolumu (Monster Hunter) hiding in the darkness. The Paolumu rears its head and unfurls its wings as it screeches at Alan.) Ah! (The Paolumu starts running towards Alan as he attempts to escape. Alan dives onto the ground as the Paolumu takes flight and soars above him into the sky.)

Alan: Ah, hell. (Alan gets up and continues through the forest.) Whenever I came across something new, it seemed like a monster straight from the depths of Hell itself. I was living in a nightmare. I had to find a way to wake up. (A womanly voice is suddenly heard echoing through the forest.)

???: Alaaaaaaaan… (Alan recognizes the voice immediately.)

Alan: Alice?

Alice: Alaaaaaaaan… (Alan follows the voice until he comes upon a mansion in the woods. The front door of the mansion is open as Alice Wake (Alan Wake) stands in the open doorway. A shadowy aura surrounds her as Alan walks up to her.) There you are, Alan. I was wondering when you’d get here.

Alan: Alice? Is it really you?

Alice: It’s really me, Alan. Let’s go inside. You need your rest. (Alice leads Alan inside. Alan turns to close the door.)

Alan: I’m glad you’re okay, Alice. I was worried sick about you. (As Alan turns back to Alice, she is nowhere to be found. Alan looks around for her.) Alice? (He walks forward a bit.) Alice?! (The darkness in the room grows and surrounds Alan as the camera cuts back to outside the mansion. We hear Alan’s screams from inside.)

(We cut to a different part of the forest as we hear the sounds of footsteps and gunfire in the distance. The sounds get louder as a figure runs by. The camera shifts up to see the figure as it’s revealed to be Sebastian Castellanos. We see him turn and fire at something behind him with a revolver as a Shadow Beast (The Legend of Zelda) drops from above and lands on Sebastian’s shoulders.)

Sebastian: Sh*t! (Sebastian and the Shadow Beast fall to the ground. As the two get up, the Shadow Beast scratches at Sebastian’s face.) Ah! (Sebastian shoots the Shadow Beast in the chest. A group of six Shadow Beasts suddenly run into the area and begin to circle Sebastian.)

Sebastian: What the hell are you?! (Two Shadow Beasts run toward Sebastian as he gets up. One jumps onto his torso and tries to scratch at Sebastian as the other Shadow Beast trips Sebastian. Sebastian falls to the ground. He then pushes the Shadow Beast on his torso off of him and pins him to the ground by holding his neck with one hand. He then shoots it with the other hand. While he’s facing the Shadow Beast, the one that tripped Sebastian comes up behind him and smashes a rock into Sebastian’s head.) Gah! (Sebastian falls to the ground as the Shadow Beasts begin to enclose him. As they surround Sebastian, a gunshot is heard as one of the Shadow Beasts falls limp. The camera pans to see the Hunter holding his blunderbuss, with James and Jersey Devil on either side of him.)

Hunter: Get back. Now. (The Shadow Creatures, with only four left, look at the Hunter curiously. Two of them approach the Hunter and begin to attempt to intimidate him. The Hunter then takes out his saw cleaver and cuts off both of their heads in a single swipe.) Leave us! (The remaining two Shadow Beasts run away.)

James: (Watching the Shadow Beasts leave.) Creepy… (The Hunter and Jersey Devil approach Sebastian. James notices and catches up with them. We cut to Sebastian as he slowly gets up, holding a hand to the back of his head.)

Hunter: Are you alright? (Sebastian quickly turns to the others and holds up his gun.)

Sebastian: Get away from me! (The three heroes stop in their tracks. James then holds up his hands and slowly approaches Sebastian.)

James: We’re not going to hurt you. (Sebastian breathes heavily as he notices Jersey Devil. He points his gun at him as the Hunter puts a protective arm in front of Jersey Devil.)

Hunter: We are merely passing through. We have no desire to end your life. (Sebastian calms down and lowers his weapon. He stands up.)

Sebastian: There’s something wrong with this forest. Illusions… mirages… I can’t trust my own eyes.

James: What do you mean?

Sebastian: I keep seeing things. Hearing things. It’s something I can’t explain. (Sebastian holsters his weapon.) My name is Detective Sebastian Castellanos. I’m not from here.

James: James Sunderland. We’re not from here either. That’s why we’re trying to find a way out.

Hunter: If you need assistance, we can act as a guide for you. (Jersey Devil nods and holds a hand out towards Sebastian. Sebastian hesitantly takes it.)

Sebastian: Yeah, thanks. (A womanly voice is suddenly heard echoing through the forest.)

???: Jaaaaaaaames… (James recognizes the voice immediately.)

James: Maria?

Sebastian: Who’s Maria?

Maria: Jaaaaaaaaames… (James suddenly takes off towards the voice.)

Hunter: James, wait! (The others follow after James. We cut to the same mansion as before, now with Maria Sunderland (Silent Hill) waiting in the doorway for James. She has a shadowy aura around her.)

Maria: Come on in, James. (Maria walks into the mansion.)

James: Maria! (James runs into the mansion as the door closes by itself behind him. The Hunter, Jersey Devil, and Sebastian run up to the door of the mansion as Sebastian tries to open it, to no avail.)

Sebastian: It’s locked! (He lets go of the knob. The Hunter then takes out his blunderbuss and shoots the doorknob. It falls off as the door slowly opens. To the Hunter.) Good thinking. (Sebastian throws the door open as our heroes run inside. There’s no sign of James.)

Hunter: Where did he go? (Jersey Devil walks around, searching for James.)

Sebastian: He could be anywhere. Just stay focused. Don’t let anything distract you. (The camera begins to shift down as it goes underground. We find ourselves in the basement of the mansion as we see Alan, slightly bloodied, sitting against the wall mumbling to himself. Crates and lumber line the walls of the basement.)

Alan: Alice… Alice… (Footsteps are heard as Alan hears. He gets up, hoping to see Alice.) Alice? (He approaches where the footsteps are coming from as James, now covered in shadow, enters the room. His voice comes out distorted.)

James: Maaaariririria! (Alan screams and shines his flashlight onto James. James covers his eyes and stumbles back.)

Alan: Leave! Leave! (James stumbles back into a pile of lumber. He grabs a short plank of wood with a nail in it. He then wildly runs at Alan and swings at him.)

James: Maaaaaaaa…riiiiiia! (Alan steps backwards to avoid the swings as he takes out a pistol. He shoots at James, unable to hit him as the two stumble around the basement. Alan then charges forward and slams into James, knocking him onto the ground.) Aren’t… aren’t you… Maria?

Alan: Maria? (Alan points his pistol at James as he suddenly holds his hand to his head.) Agh! My head! (He looks at James as the shadows quickly disappear and reappear around him, making him look normal.) Huh? (We hear the voice of Alice again.)

Alice: Alaaaaaaan… (Alan looks up to see Alice standing near the far wall of the basement. The image of Alice quickly changes to Maria.)

Maria: Save me, Alan! (The images of Alice and Maria quickly flicker between the two as the image settles on Lara Croft. She has a shadowy aura and yellow eyes as she looks at Alan. Alan snaps out of his trance as he fires at a crate behind Lara. This causes the crate to open.)

Lara: Huh? (Lara looks behind her.) Ah! (The crate spills metal parts onto Lara as she falls to the ground. The shadows dissipate around her. The shadows around James also disappear as Alan holds a hand out to him.)

Alan: Are you alright? (James takes Alan’s hand and stands up.)

James: I think so… but… just a second ago you looked just like a monster. Something must be messing with my head. (Alan turns towards Lara.)

Alan: I think she might have some answers for us. (James and Alan walk towards Lara as she slowly gets up.)

Lara: Where am I? (Alan points his gun at Lara.) Sh*t.

Alan: How did you disguise yourself as my wife, and why did you lead us here?

Lara: I… I don’t remember. Last thing I remember was being in the city and I… we… (A look of realization crosses Lara’s face.) Master Mind! (She reaches into her pockets.)

James: The mastermind? (Lara takes out her shard of the Shadow Crystal.)

Alan: What is that?

Lara: A piece of a crystal that held someone named Master Mind. He… he must’ve taken over my mind… (She holds her head.) I don’t remember coming here. I don’t know why I’m here.

Alan: This woman seemed to be telling the truth, or at least what she believed to be the truth. A weaver of minds, able to bend people to his will. A crystal in her possession that once held him. An unknown presence bending our minds to see what we want. It didn’t make sense. (We suddenly hear eerie laughter.) Huh? (The three heroes look around to find the source of the laughter as we see a cloud of white smoke appear in the middle of the room. A swarm of Boos (Super Mario) then erupt from the cloud and begin flying around the room as the characters scream. One Boo speaks to the others.)

Boo: The girl lost her dark aura. We better scram back to Magician! (All the Boos fly through the ceiling. Lara turns to the others.)

Lara: We need to get out of here. C’mon! (They run back to the way they came. We cut back to the Hunter, Jersey Devil, and Sebastian in the main area of the mansion. We see the Hunter walk towards a set of double-doors and open it, revealing a large room adorned with fancy furniture and a piano. He walks into the room.)

Hunter: Perhaps James went this way. (As he steps through the room, he inspects his surroundings. He approaches the piano.) Who does this house belong to? (The piano suddenly transforms into the Mad Piano (Super Mario) and begins gnashing its teeth at the Hunter.) Agh! (The Hunter fires at the Mad Piano to no avail. He then runs out of the room and slams the doors shut. As he turns back to where the others were, he sees nothing but darkness. Darkness is now surrounding him as he steps forwards, blunderbuss at the ready. A mysterious voice begins to speak to him.)

???: You should not have left your home… they needed you… (The darkness suddenly transforms into Yharnam. Fires rage in the buildings as sounds of terrifying beasts fill the air. The Hunter looks at the destruction.)

Hunter: Yharnam…

???: Plague… beasts… why aren’t you there… (The Hunter drops to the floor as if being pushed as Yharnam disappears. We see Sebastian in the background as he steps through the dark. The voice talks to him.) Husband… father… what happened?

Sebastian: Who’s saying that?! (Sebastian points his gun around him as we see Myra Castellanos (The Evil Within) and Lily Castellanos (The Evil Within) appear behind him. Sebastian turns to them before lowering his weapon.) Myra… Lily…? (They suddenly catch on fire as Sebastian falls back. The flames glow brighter as Sebastian is pushed down like the Hunter. We see Jersey Devil in the background as the camera focuses on him.)

???: You’re a monster… a monster… just a monster. (Jersey Devil turns around wildly trying to find the source of the voice as a glow appears in front of him. The camera pans to see a vision of Jersey Devil on a stake being burned by an angry mob.) Monster… (Jersey Devil is pushed down by an invisible force. Suddenly, gunshots are heard. The darkness disappears around the Hunter, Sebastian, and Jersey Devil as dead Skulltulas (The Legend of Zelda) appear on top of them, having been shot. The camera pans to see Alan and Lara holding pistols. James is beside them.)

Lara: Disgusting. (The other three heroes brush the Skulltulas off of them and run over to Alan, Lara, and James. Jersey Devil hugs James.)

James: Oh… uh… nice to see you too.

Hunter: James, what happened?

James: Something is manipulating our minds. They got to these two also.

Lara: There was a swarm of ghosts in the basement. We need to leave before they come back.

???: But why would you want to leave? (Our heroes look up as we see the source of the voice, Magician, floating above them.) If your minds belong to me, you never have to worry about anything ever again.

Sebastian: What are you?

Magician: I am Magician. My new friends brought you here, as some of you have already seen.

James: The ghosts? (The Boos from before swarm back into the room as they form into Boolossus (Super Mario). Boolossus floats beside Magician.)

Boolossus: Hahahaha! Behold the true form of Boolossus. (We cut to our heroes looking up at Boolossus in terror.) What’s the matter, scaredy-cats? You look a little shook up! (We cut back to Magician.)

Magician: Boolossus lost his master when we were brought to this world, but we were brought together in this forest. All who enter this forest will either wander lost forever or surrender their mind to me. (Magician clutches his fist as he says this.) And with Boolossus’ magic, we can make you see anything we want.

Boolossus: Haha! Yeah! The girl certainly helped with tricking you chumps. (The camera pans to Lara.) We found her wandering the forest like a lost puppy! She was easy to manipulate. Hmmm, that dark aura around her disappeared though. Oh well!

Lara: So that’s how I got here…

Magician: Now, either bend to my will, or die. (Magician gestures to Boolossus as he conjures his magic. The screen goes white. As the screen goes back to normal, the heroes appear to be in some sort of void as parts of the mansion fly around them.)

Sebastian: Where are we?!

Boolossus: You’re in my world now!

Magician: Now perish! (He conjures a ball of fire and throws it at our heroes. The Hunter, Jersey Devil, Sebastian, and Lara jump out of the way, but James and Alan are thrown back. James falls into the void and begins to fly around.)

James: Wooooaaaah! (Jersey Devil sees this and flies after James. He catches James as they fly around the void.) Thanks. (Boolossus suddenly manifests behind them and begins to chase them.)

Boolossus: Let’s play tag, devil boy. I’m it! (Boolossus chases them as he laughs. We cut to Sebastian and the Hunter shooting at Magician. He swiftly moves behind them.)

Magician: It’s of no use. (He grabs Sebastian and throws him onto the ground. The Hunter slashes Magician with his saw cleaver before the Magician throws a fireball into his chest. The Hunter flies back and hits a chair flying through the air, shattering it.)

Hunter: This shouldn’t be possible… (Lara then runs up to Magician and hits him with an ice pick.)

Magician: Why even try?

Lara: It’s gonna be a real pleasure to shut you up. (Magician slams his fist into Lara as she flies off of the platform. A door begins to fly past her as she sticks her ice pick into it. Lara is now flying on the door.) This is insane! (We cut back to Magician as bullets suddenly fly into him, blood spurting from his glowing veins. The camera pans to see Alan Wake continuing to shoot as Jersey Devil and James fly over him being chased by Boolossus. Boolossus charges at Jersey Devil and James, knocking them to the ground. James lands further away than Jersey Devil.)

James: Leave us both the hell alone!

Boolossus: Someone’s gotten pretty brave. (Boolossus slowly floats towards James as Jersey Devil does a spin attack on Boolossus from behind. Boolossus turns to face Jersey Devil.) Why you… (As Boolossus intimidates Jersey Devil, James uses his plank of wood with a nail in it to pierce Boolossus which pops him. He disappears.)

James: (Examining his plank of wood.) Well, that worked better than I thought. (We cut back to Magician.)

Magician: I shall destroy everything! (Magician conjures two fireballs and shoots one at the Hunter and one at Sebastian. We see Sebastian fly back as Alan approaches Magician with his gun drawn. Sebastian then takes out his own gun and shoots at Magician from the ground.) You… haven’t… seen… anything… yet! (Magician begins to create more fireballs as Lara suddenly drops from above onto Magician’s back. She plunges her ice pick into his head.)

Lara: Gotcha!

Magician: Gaaaaaaah! (The screen suddenly glows white, shrouding everything. We cut back to the mansion, now back to normal. Magician lies dead in the middle of the main room as Lara takes the ice pick out of his head.)

Lara: That should be the end of him. (Sebastian approaches Magician holding a lit match.)

Sebastian: Just to be safe. (He drops the match onto Magician as he is lit on fire. Our heroes watch the flames burn. We cut to our heroes walking through the forest as the sun begins to rise.)

Hunter: The forest is safe now. We should have a safe journey to find… (He turns to Lara.) Master Mind, correct?

Lara: Master Mind. He wants to destroy this world and everything in it. I tried to stop him.

Sebastian: Looks like he’s not the only one we have to worry about either.

Alan: Is there anything we can do? (Lara takes out the shard of the Shadow Crystal.)

Lara: I’m not sure, but maybe this has some answers.

James: We need to get out of this forest first. (Jersey Devil nods. The camera pans up as we see smoke billowing up in the background.)

Alan: An entire universe in danger. It was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. But I was not alone now. A group of people willing to go up against impossible odds to save a home that wasn’t their own. Almost like the cartoons I watched growing up. It didn’t feel real. But it has to be done. To save this world. To save my own. To save Alice.

End of Episode

Chapter 29: Zero Dawn

(The episode begins looking out into the vastness of space. A shooting star passes through as suddenly a red and blue spaceship flies into frame. The camera follows its course as we cut to the interior of the small ship to see Captain Blasto piloting it. We hear his inner monologue.)

Blasto: Captain’s log. Day: unknown. I've been soaring through the never-ending void of space aimlessly for days, weeks, possibly even years. All contact with everyone I know has suddenly been disconnected, and I fear I may soar forever without finding my way home. (The camera cuts back to the outside of the ship as it soars past small space rocks.) Captain Blasto is many things. He is handsome, brave, intelligent, and even handsome, but one thing he is not is a quitter, so I will continue my journey until I find my home or die tryi- (Before he can finish, a space cruiser bumps into his spaceship and soars past. Blasto speaks, no longer in his own head.)

Blasto: Hey, buddy, watch where you're going! Sheesh, some people… huh? (He looks up to where the space cruiser was heading and sees Dr. Nefarious' space station.) Hmmm, this has evil written all over it. I better take a look inside. (He picks up his blaster.) And while I'm at it, I'll get that lousy driver's insurance information. (We see Blasto follow the space cruiser to the space station.)

(We cut to the inside of the space station as we see Dr. Nefarious looking up at something on his large computer screen. Lawrence is seen behind him. The doors suddenly open.)

Lawrence: Sir, I believe you have company.

Nefarious: Aaaaah, if it isn't Captain Qwark of the Rangers Corps. I was wondering when you'd show up. (The camera pans to see Captain Qwark surrounded by two Sentinel Bots (Ratchet & Clank).)

Captain Qwark: Steve, it's been awhile.

Nefarious: Indeed it has, and don't call me Steve. I'm sure you're wondering why I had my minions track you down and forcefully bring you to me aboard my space station.

Captain Qwark: It did cross my mind once or twice, yes.

Nefarious: Well wonder no longer. I have brought you here, Qwark, to assist me on a special mission.

Qwark: (Confused.) What kind of mission?

Nefarious: (Gesturing grandly towards his monitor.) Behold! (An image of Earth appears onscreen.) The planet Earth! A, ahem, "hostile" planet that needs someone to save it. And Qwark, in the whole galaxy, there is only one man brave enough to take on such a monumental task. (We cut to just outside the open doorway as Blasto silently walks up and hides behind it, listening to what's being said inside.) And that person is you, Captain! (We cut back to Qwark and Nefarious.)

Qwark: Me?

Nefarious: Of course. I mean, look at me, I could never do what you do. I'm much too weak, too frail.

Lawrence: Too dimwitted.

Nefarious: Too nice.

Lawrence: Too cowardly.

Nefarious: (Slightly annoyed.) Thank you, Lawrence. (To Qwark.) I need you to travel to this planet and wipe out all the parasites on the surface. Then and only then will we be able to go back to our home. (We cut to Blasto opening his eyes wide.)

Blasto: (To himself.) Wipe out an entire planet? This guy's a total loon. (We cut to Nefarious getting on his knees and begging.)

Nefarious: Please, Captain. The galaxy needs a hero, and the only way to save the galaxy is to exterminate the planet.

Qwark: (Thinking it over.) Welllll…

Nefarious: Think of all the fame! The fortune! Every lady in the galaxy will want a slice of Qwark after he saves the entire universe. (Qwark's eyes light up.)

Qwark: Well, if it's for the good of the universe, then I have no choice but to exterminate the planet Earth. (Nefarious gets back up.)

Nefarious: Excellent! I'll make sure you're not alone either. Feast your eyes on this! (Nefarious types on his keyboard and reveals a picture of his head photoshopped onto a ripped, robotic body that is flexing.) Oops! Wrong file! (Fiercely tapping on his keyboard.) Sorry about that.

Lawrence: Your skill at doctoring photos is admirable, sir. (A screen showing Ridley, now in his Meta Ridley form, is shown in some kind of laboratory. He roars at Sentinel Bots in the room, destroying some in his rage.)

Nefarious: My latest creation! This creature should make your world-conquering efforts a breeze. (We cut to Blasto.)

Blasto: Holy Mother of Mercury. (Lawrence looks over and sees Blasto.)

Lawrence: Ahem, sir.

Nefarious: Not now, Lawrence.

Lawrence: Sir, there is an intruder onboard. (Nefarious and Qwark look back at Blasto.)

Nefarious: An intruder! (To his Sentinel Bots.) Seize him! (The Sentinel Bots charge towards Blasto, but he is able to shoot both of them before they can get to him.)

Blasto: Nothing like shooting bad guys in the morning! (Qwark then moves in and pulls his own blaster on Blasto.)

Qwark: Put down the weapon, son. This is official Ranger Corps business.

Blasto: Hmmm… (Looks behind Qwark.) What’s that over there? (Qwark looks behind him as Blasto runs off.)

Nefarious: (To Qwark.) He's getting away, you idiot!

Qwark: Huh? (He looks back to see Blasto gone.) Don’t worry, I'll catch him! (Qwark runs after Blasto.)

Nefarious: Of course you will, but just in case. (Nefarious laughs evilly and pushes a button on his keyboard. We cut to Meta Ridley's room as a large pair of doors open. Meta Ridley takes flight and soars out the doors.)

(We cut back to outer space as we see the King of All Cosmos (Katamari) leisurely floating. Prince then floats up to the King's face.)

King of All Cosmos: Isn’t it so relaxing, Prince? Not a worry in the world. (The King of All Cosmos then looks over to see Blasto's ship heading towards Earth. Qwark's cruiser and Meta Ridley are also seen a ways behind Blasto.) How odd. (He turns to Prince.) Prince, would you mind taking a look at that planet? Maybe bring your old man back a souvenir? (Prince shakes his head up and down.) Then off you go. (We see Prince kick his feet as he begins soaring towards Earth.)

(We cut to Earth as we see a snowy landscape. A small town rests in the midst of a small blizzard. We cut again to the inside of a warm tavern with people milling about. At the bar is Soda Popinski (Punch-Out) drinking a soda as Sans (Undertale) sits next to him with a bottle of ketchup.)

Sans: (To Soda Popinski.) Y'know, I once found a place where they sell small bottles of pop. Little place called Mini Soda. (A rimshot plays as Sans laughs to himself and Soda Popinski gets up and walks away.) Tough crowd. (We cut to the door of the tavern as it opens and Aloy walks in. She shakes the snow off of herself and makes her way to a table as the bartender greets her.)

Bartender: Welcome back, Aloy. How goes it in the snow?

Aloy: The blizzard hasn't gotten bad yet, but I heard monsters out there. Everyone should stay indoors.

Bartender: (To the bar-goers.) You heard the woman! Keep yourself safe inside tonight! (To Aloy.) Can I get ya anything to drink?

Aloy: Something warm please.

Bartender: Coming right up! (He leaves as we focus on Aloy. Suddenly, we hear the door to the tavern burst open.)

???: Somebody help! Please! (Aloy gets up and turns around to see Rex at the door.) Please, I need help! (The bartender walks up to him.)

Bartender: Woah, buddy, what's the problem?

Rex: My friend! She's in danger! A group of wolves attacked us and I got separated and I need help! (Aloy walks up to Rex.)

Aloy: I'll help.

Rex: (Hopeful.) You will?

Aloy: Lead the way. Quickly. (She takes out her bow.) Before it's too late. (Rex nods.)

Rex: C'mon! (They run out of the tavern.) I think it’s this way! (We cut to see Aloy and Rex running through the snow a little later.) She's somewhere over here. I just know it. (They suddenly hear howling. Aloy runs towards the source.)

Aloy: This way! (Rex follows. We cut to them running up to a small cliffside. A little ways down, we can see Pyra being surrounded by Wolfos (The Legend of Zelda).)

Pyra: Rex! Where are you!?

Rex: (To Aloy.) It’s Pyra!

Aloy: Hold onto me!

Rex: (Flustered.) What?!

Aloy: Hold onto me! I have a plan to get us down there.

Rex: Well, right-o then. (Rex grabs onto Aloy as she jumps off the cliff. Rex begins to scream as Aloy takes out her glider. They glide down and land in front of Pyra as Aloy takes out her bow and shoots a Wolfos in the face. The Wolfos howls in pain as it falls over and dies.)

Pyra: Rex!

Rex: (Unsheathing his sword.) Pyra, get behind me! (Pyra moves closer to Rex as he and Aloy eye the Wolfos surrounding them. The Wolfos slowly get closer. One Wolfos leaps over to Rex as he swings his sword at it twice. Both slashes harmlessly clash against the Wolfos' claws before the sword catches fire.)

Pyra: Let him have it, Rex! (Rex brings the sword down on the Wolfos, which sends it flying back into the snow as it howls.)

Rex: Thanks, Pyra! (Another Wolfos pounces at Aloy. It attacks with is claws as Aloy slides underneath. She then puts her bow around the Wolfos' neck as she strangles it. Another Wolfos runs up from behind, but Rex's sword, now flaming and spinning in midair, hits the Wolfos away as Rex's sword returns to his hands.)

Aloy: Yah! (Aloy snaps the neck of the Wolfos as she loads an arrow into her bow and shoots another Wolfos in the chest. The remaining three Wolfos whimper before running away.) That’ll take care of them. (She turns to Rex and Pyra.)

Rex: Thank you… um…

Aloy: Aloy. My name is Aloy.

Rex: (Smiles.) I'm Rex. (He gestures to Pyra.) And this is Pyra.

Pyra: Thank you for saving me. Rex and I were trying to find shelter from the blizzard, but we got separated when those wolves attacked us.

Aloy: I'm glad you're okay. (She begins walking.) I'll take you two back to the tavern. You can wait out the blizzard there. (Rex nods as he and Pyra follow Aloy.)

(We cut to a different part of the snowy mountains as Blasto's ship crashes into the snow. Smoke pours from his spacecraft as he exits.)

Blasto: Not my best parking job, I'll say that much. (He looks around him as we see a Stantler (Pokemon) grazing in the snow.)

Blasto: An alien planet. (He looks at the Stantler.) Good Lord, these aliens are ugly. (To the Stantler.) Hey, your planet is under attack! (The Stantler looks at Blasto before galloping away.) Hopefully he's off to warn the others. (Blasto turns around to see Prince standing right behind him.) Gah! (He points his blaster at Prince.) Don't move a muscle.

Prince: Why?

Blasto: You're clearly not the same species as that mule character. I need to make sure you're not an alien invader. (Prince thinks for a second before looking at Blasto's ship.)

Prince: Is that your ship?

Blasto: Uh… yeah.

Prince: It’s so fancy. (His eyes light up.)

Blasto: Top of the line spacecraft right here. Nothing like it in the rest of the universe.

Prince: Were you the one being chased through space by the other spaceship and that big monster?

Blasto: Yep, that's me. Name's Captain Blasto. Those mooks are planning to exterminate this planet, so I came to warn the people of Earth. (Prince looks around the area.)

Prince: So where are they?

Blasto: Probably hiding with their tails between their legs now that they know Blasto is onto their schemes.

???: Think again. (Blasto quickly turns around with his blaster raised as Prince looks back also. They see Qwark on a hover pad with Sentinel Bots underneath him.) Greetings, cadet.

Blasto: You! I won't let you touch a hair on the strange donkey people inhabiting this planet.

Qwark: For the good of the universe, and we're talking the entire universe here, I must eradicate this planet. You wouldn't understand. Not you or your small friend there.

Blasto: (To Prince.) You better get outta here, kid. This is gonna get messier than an order of chili cheese fries traveling lightspeed.

Prince: But I can help.

Qwark: Give up now, or… (He takes out his blaster.) I'll toast you like the bread you are. Hehe.

Blasto: I mean it, kid. You'll get hurt.

Prince: I mean it. I can really help.

Qwark: Welp, I warned you. (To the robots.) Fire! (All the Sentinel Bots begin firing their weapons as Blasto closes his eyes. Everything is quiet as he slowly opens them.)

Blasto: What the…? (The camera pans to see the Katamari ball covered in Sentinel Bots and snow. Qwark stands on his hover pad dumbfounded as Prince stands proudly in front of his work.)

Prince: I did it! (A rainbow then comes down and touches the Katamari as it is brought up back to space.)

Blasto: Good gravy, what was that?!

Prince: My dad gave it to me. Usually it's just for making stars, but it comes in handy to keep me safe.

Qwark: So you wanna play games, huh? Well here's a game called I win, you lose. (He points at Blasto and Prince.) Get them! (Meta Ridley soars in from the blizzard and roars. Blasto picks up Prince and places him on his shoulder.)

Blasto: C'mon, kid! (Blasto begins running as Meta Ridley fires fireballs behind him.)

Prince: Faster, mister! (Blasto fires his blaster behind him, but this seems to anger Meta Ridley even more. Meta Ridley attacks with his tail and swipes Blasto and Prince off of a cliffside.)

Blasto: Woooooaaaah! (We cut back to Aloy, Rex, and Pyra traveling through the snow as they hear Blasto's scream.)

Pyra: What’s that noise? (Blasto suddenly lands on top of Rex.)

Blasto: Ugh… your brave sacrifice of breaking my fall will never be forgotten. (Prince lands daintily on top of Aloy.)

Aloy: Huh?

Prince: Thanks for catching us. That monster sure was scary.

Aloy: Monster? (Meta Ridley and Qwark then fly down to meet our heroes as Blasto and Rex get up.) Is that a Machine?

Qwark: More of you? Eh, doesn't matter. Give up now or I'll have my buddy here turn you to ash.

Rex: Who are these baddies?

Blasto: They're here to destroy the world. (He holds out his blaster.) But they'll have to get past Captain Blasto first! (Aloy readies her bow.)

Aloy: We're not going to let you destroy anything on this world.

Qwark: Ooooh, a bow and arrow. I'm sooooo scared! He said sarcastically because I'm not actually scared. (To Meta Ridley.) Take care of them. (Meta Ridley roars and flies forward as his claws grab Blasto and Aloy. Prince falls off of Aloy's head as Pyra catches him.)

Pyra: Gotcha. (We see Meta Ridley fly a ways away with Blasto and Aloy as Blasto uses his blaster as a flamethrower. The flames lick Meta Ridley's face as he drops our heroes in the snow, with Blasto landing head first.)

Blasto: (Trying to get his head out from the snow.) Hrngh! A small setback. (Aloy shoots arrows at Meta Ridley as he roars. He shoots a plume of fire our of his mouth as Aloy dives and saves Blasto.) Thank you. (We cut back to Prince, Rex, Pyra, and Qwark.)

Qwark: So, you're all that's left. Can't say you're too intimidating, so I'll make this quick. (He starts shooting at our heroes as they run through the snow, dodging the shots.)

Rex: Pyra, give me a boost! (Rex runs over to Pyra as she throws Prince into the air. Rex then jumps as Pyra boosts him up with her hands. He slashes at Qwark but he dodges out of the way on his hover pad.)

Qwark: So close yet so far. (Rex lands in the snow as a blast hits him in the back. He falls into the snow.) Hahahaha! (Rex's sword, now flaming, suddenly flies through the air and grazes Qwark's side. We see the sword land in Pyra's hands as she gets into an offensive position with Prince on her shoulder.)

Pyra: There’s more where that came from! (We cut back to Blasto and Aloy firing at Meta Ridley. Meta Ridley soars down to them and blows them back with his wings.)

Aloy: We're hardly doing anything to this Machine.

Blasto: He's gotta have some sort of weak point. He's only part machine. (Aloy looks up to see the metal making up all of Meta Ridley's neck.)

Aloy: Its neck is completely metallic. If we can find a way to break it…

Blasto: Then it'll be done-zo! (Blasto and Aloy break off in different directions as we cut back to Pyra. Pyra jumps up to attack Qwark but misses, but as she falls back down, Rex grabs the sword from her and slashes Qwark's hover pad in half. He falls to the ground.)

Qwark: Rotten kids! (He shoots at Rex again before shooting Pyra to the ground as well. We cut to Prince panicking.)

Prince: What do I do? What would dad do? I don't have a Katamari ball anymo- (He looks down at the snow.) Wait a minute. (We cut back to Blasto as he taunts Meta Ridley.)

Blasto: Hey, cyborg. (Meta Ridley turns to him.) Want a taste of this action? (Meta Ridley shoots another plume of fire as Blasto retaliates using the flamethrower function on his blaster. The flames meet in the middle as Meta Ridley's slowly grows bigger.) Any minute now. Might wanna take the shot before he turns up the heat. (Meta Ridley's fire continues to grow as Aloy suddenly glides in. She throws a spear through Meta Ridley's neck as it breaks the neck clean through. Aloy lands next to Blasto.)

Aloy: Bullseye! (Meta Ridley's head falls off as his body goes fully limp. We cut to Qwark who notices.)

Qwark: What?! You destroyed him?! Impossible! (A large shadow then forms over Qwark as the camera pans to see a massive snowball looming above him. Prince stands next to it.)

Prince: My own Katamari!

Qwark: Uh oh… (Prince rolls the snowball into Qwark as it engulfs him and he begins rolling wildly down a hill.) Why meeeeeeee?! (We see the snowball land in a river as Qwark resurfaces in a large ice cube. We cut to all of our heroes meeting with each other.)

Aloy: Who was that guy? Why did he want to destroy the planet?

Blasto: Beats me, but if the guy who sent that space moron tried it once, chances are he'll try again.

Rex: I'd like to see him get past us!

Pyra: We'll protect this place.

Prince: Yay!

Blasto: I'd go after him right now, but my ship had some problems landing here.

Aloy: Follow me. We'll get some shelter and then we'll find out what this guy wants with the planet.

Rex: Sounds good to me.

Pyra: (To Prince.) Come on, little guy. (She picks him up as we see them walk through the snow.)

(We cut back to Nefarious' space station as he bangs on his keyboard.)

Nefarious: No! I've lost connection to Qwark and my beautiful creation! Urgh!

Lawrence: You mean your brilliant plan to use that space dunce to take over the planet didn't work?

Nefarious: How could it have failed?! I- (The doors suddenly open.) Huh? (We see two Space Pirates enter the room as one approaches Nefarious.)

Space Pirate: We understand that you have been in possession of a member of our army known as Ridley. Is this true?

Nefarious: Welllll, it may be true, it may be false. Would you be mad if it were true?

Space Pirate: On the contrary. Our leader, Mother Brain, has requested a meeting with you to discuss an alliance.

Nefarious: (Slowly grinning.) What kind of alliance?

End of Episode

Chapter 30: Dream Team

(The episode begins in darkness. A lullaby is heard softly in the background as the screen slowly begins to show the image of a closed pair of eyes. The pair of eyes slowly open.)

???: Huh? (The eyes fully open as the camera pans out to reveal Klonoa laying on the ground. The area Klonoa is in is bright and looks strange. The environment looks like something that would come from a dream, with grassy plains and trees that have bright pink trees. The sky is purple with strange, swirling clouds in the air.)

Klonoa: What is this place? (A group of four Teensies (Rayman) suddenly run past Klonoa, knocking him down. One of the Teensies is wearing a crown.) Ow! (The Teensie wearing a crown walks up to Klonoa.)

Teensie #1: Save us from that fowl beast! (The camera pans over to see Gooey (Kirby) who bounces towards the Teensies with his tongue out.)

Klonoa: That goofy thing? (One of the Teensies takes the crown off of the first Teensie and puts it on.)

Teensie #2: He’s coming to eat us! (He grabs Klonoa and shakes him.) Do something!

Klonoa: Uh… okay. (Klonoa looks over and sees a berry bush growing large berries. He grabs one off the bush and throws it. To Gooey.) Go get it! (Gooey looks excited and chases after the berry. Klonoa turns to see all the Teensies applauding him as another Teensie takes the crown and puts it on their head.)

Teensie #3: Thank you for saving us. We are forever in your debt.

Klonoa: No problem. (He looks around.) So… where am I?

Teensie #3: That… we do not know. Everything was normal until we heard an angelic voice, and now we’re here. (The fourth Teensie steals the crown.)

Teensie #4: Don’t listen to him, he’s not the real king. But you, my friend, are certainly a hero, and I, with my divine power, am electing you to find us all a way home. Think you can handle that?

Klonoa: I think so. If all the monsters here are like that little blue guy, it shouldn’t be much of a problem.

Teensie #4: Excellent! (All the Teensies begin pushing Klonoa.) Then it is time for you to begin your journey! Go, and find us a way back! (Klonoa begins walking off and looks back to see the Teensies waving him goodbye. Klonoa shrugs and continues to walk off. The camera cuts to a new perspective behind the trees, watching Klonoa walk away. A dark figure is seen watching Klonoa leave.)

(We cut to a different part of the strange dreamscape as we see a Souflee (Kid Icarus) running away from a group of five Flying Men (EarthBound). A purple figure is seen flying in the background. We cut closer to the flying figure to see that it is NiGHTS flying through the air.)

NiGHTS: What a peculiar place. (NiGHTS flies up to a tree and expects its pink leaves.) Quite beautiful though. (A scream is suddenly heard as NiGHTS tenses up with fright.) What was that? (A group of Antasma bats (Super Mario) suddenly fly past NiGHTS.) Ah! (NiGHTS watches them fly towards a group of other bats surrounding something on the ground. NiGHTS gets a look of determination as they fly towards the swarm of bats. We cut to see the swarm of bats around Marx, with him standing on his ball.)

Marx: Somebody help meeeeee! (NiGHTS flies in and uses their Drill Dash to drill into the swarm of bats, which knocks most of the bats onto the ground. The bats divert their attention from Marx and begin flying towards NiGHTS. One bat flies into NiGHTS’ head as NiGHTS retaliates by kicking it away. Another bat flies towards NiGHTS, but is hit in the back with Marx’s ball before it can get to NiGHTS. The rest of the bats fly away. We see the ball bounce back towards Marx as he greets NiGHTS.) Hey, hey, hey! Thanks for helping me out. (NiGHTS flies over to Marx.)

NiGHTS: Someone had to put those troublemakers in their place. (NiGHTS makes faces at the fallen bats. Marx jumps onto his ball.)

Marx: Since you seem to be pretty strong, maybe you can help me find something I’ve been having trouble with.

NiGHTS: Sure! What’re you looking for?

Marx: It’s called the Dream Stone. It apparently has the ability to grant its user with great power, but I’m not sure how it works yet. I’m hoping that maybe I can unlock its powers to help everybody!

NiGHTS: Yaaaaawn. If you wanna help people, then there’s much more fun ways to do it than finding some rock.

Marx: Oh… uh…

NiGHTS: I’ll help you out though! You seem like a fun guy. And if the stone has some great power, maybe you can help me out a little. (NiGHTS begins to fly off.) I’m NiGHTS by the way.

Marx: I’m Marx! (Marx begins rolling after NiGHTS.) Let’s get going!

(We cut back to Klonoa as he strolls through the dream world. His arms are on the back of his head as he takes in his surroundings.)

Klonoa: This place is pretty strange, but it’s pretty peaceful too. (Klonoa stops to smell a sunflower, but the sunflower runs away as it’s revealed to be a Sunflora (Pokemon).)

Sunflora: Floraaaaa!

Klonoa: Oops. (Calling after the Sunflora.) Sorry! (Klonoa continues to walk through the area as a bunch of bananas suddenly flies through the air and hits Klonoa in the back of the head. Klonoa falls to the ground onto his face.) Ugh! (He gets up and looks at the bananas.) Bananas? (As Klonoa leans down to inspect the bananas, an orange flies over his head.)

Klonoa: Hey, who's doing that? (Klonoa turns around to see Pac-Man with a dark aura around him and yellow eyes. He's palming a pac-dot before throwing it at Klonoa.) Yah! (Klonoa quickly pulls out his Wind Ring and shoots a wind bullet at the pac-dot, causing it to inflate and explode.)

Pac-Man: Ugh! (Pac-Man performs a rev roll and rams into Klonoa, sending him far back. Klonoa lands on his back.)

Klonoa: Wah! (We then see Pac-Man run towards Klonoa before Klonoa shoots a wind bullet at Pac-Man. Pac-Man inflates and stops in his tracks. Klonoa then gets up and grabs Pac-Man as the dark aura slowly leaves his body.) Alright, what's your problem, buddy!?

Pac-Man: (Muffled.) Put… me… down… please. (Klonoa notices that Pac-Man's dark aura has disappeared. He deflates Pac-Man and drops him onto the ground. Pac-Man holds his head as Klonoa walks away.) Um… could you tell me where I am? (Klonoa stops.)

Klonoa: I don’t know, dude. I'm trying to find a way out of here. It's a little difficult to do that when you're throwing fruit at me.

Pac-Man: (Aghast.) I did what?! (Pac-Man gets up and runs towards Klonoa as he walks away.) Hey! Wait! (Klonoa stops again.)

Klonoa: What do you want?

Pac-Man: What happened with Master Mind? (He looks around.) And how did I get here?

Klonoa: I don't know who that is, and I'm not sure where we are either. I just woke up here. I don’t remember how.

Pac-Man: I'm sick of getting teleported to new worlds. I just wanna go home to Pac-Land. (To Klonoa.) How about I help you out a bit? With both of us, it should hopefully be easy to find a way out.

Klonoa: Just as long as you don't pull any more stunts like before. (Klonoa begins walking off as Pac-Man walks alongside him. The camera begins to pan up.)

Pac-Man: Nice hat! Know where I can get one of those?

(We cut back to NiGHTS and Marx traveling through the dream world.)

NiGHTS: So how are we gonna know when we're close to this Dream Stone?

Marx: Hehehe! We'll just have to look until we find it.

NiGHTS: That could take forever! (NiGHTS and Marx reach a cliffside and look down. They spot the Dream Stone from afar.) Ooh! Ooh! That looks like it could be a Dream Stone! (The camera pans over to see Klonoa and Pac-Man walking up to it.)

Marx: Looks like we've been beat to it. (We cut back to see NiGHTS and Marx.) If we let them get their hands on it, we're cooked!

NiGHTS: Then we'll grab it from them! (NiGHTS flies towards them as Marx bounces off the cliffside. We cut to Klonoa and Pac-Man as they walk up to the Dream Stone. Pac-Man picks it up.)

Pac-Man: This rock looks pretty cool.

Klonoa: Not like any rock I've seen before.

Pac-Man: I've got a kid at home who'll love this!

Klonoa: (Smiling.) Lucky kid. (Suddenly, NiGHTS flies in and uses a Drill Dash on Pac-Man which knocks him back. Pac-Man bounces before landing on his face. Klonoa runs up to him and helps him up.) You okay, Pac?

Pac-Man: (Dizzy.) Just a little shook up is all. (We see that the Dream Stone fell to the ground as NiGHTS scoops it up.)

NiGHTS: I'm not gonna let the two of you use the Dream Stone for your evil deeds!

Pac-Man: What’s a Dream Stone?

Klonoa: What are you talking about? I'm just trying to go home, but you loonies keep attacking me.

NiGHTS: (Confused.) You weren't looking for this? (A ball then hits NiGHTS in the back of the head as they fall to the ground in front of Pac-Man and Klonoa.) Ugh! Huh? (NiGHTS turns around to see Marx roll up to the Dream Stone. Marx jumps off of his ball and puts the Dream Stone onto his hat.)

Marx: Hehehehehe! Finally, the Dream Stone is all mine!

NiGHTS: But you said…

Marx: I just needed someone strong enough to deal with the weirdos who got sucked into the dream world. That monster's song was heard by way more people than I anticipated. But it was all worth it! Now Planet Popstar will be all mine! (A bright light envelops Marx. When it dissipates, Marx is revealed to have turned into Dreamy Marx, which is his True Form from Kirby Super Star with bright rainbow colors on him. He floats in the air.)

Klonoa: Waaaah!

Dreamy Marx: What’s the matter? Looks like you're having a nightmare! Hehehehahahahaha! (NiGHTS gets a look of determination as they fly at Dreamy Marx and performs a Drill Dash. Dreamy Marx teleports out of the way and ends up behind NiGHTS.) Nice try, NiGHTS! (He spits a spiked ball at NiGHTS, which hits them as they spiral to the ground. We cut back to Klonoa and Pac-Man.)

Klonoa: C'mon, Pac! We gotta help him! (Klonoa runs towards the battle.)

Pac-Man: Time to get chompin'! (Pac-Man follows.)

Dreamy Marx: (Noticing Klonoa and Pac-Man.) You still wanna fight? Then let's tussle! (Dreamy Marx dives into the ground as a large shadow forms on it. The shadow moves towards Pac-Man and Klonoa as they look around for Dreamy Marx.)

Klonoa: Where’d he go?

Pac-Man: Keep an eye out for him. He could come out from anywhe- (The shadow goes right underneath Klonoa and Pac-Man as Dreamy Marx bursts out from it, sending Klonoa and Pac-Man flying.) Aaaaaaah!

Klonoa: Manya! (We see Pac-Man fly into a nearby tree. He hits the trunk and falls to the ground as a bunch of apples fall on top of him.)

Pac-Man: Owww… (We cut to Dreamy Marx floating in midair.)

Dreamy Marx: Having fun yet? (We then see NiGHTS, now in the form of a dolphin, fly into Dreamy Marx, digging their snout into Dreamy Marx before flying away.) So you’ve still got some tricks? Well, so do I! (Dreamy Marx flies after NiGHTS. A large laser beam flies out of his mouth as NiGHTS spins out of the way just in time. We cut back to Klonoa as he runs up to Pac-Man.)

Klonoa: (Leaning down to Pac-Man.) You alright, Pac?

Pac-Man: (Getting up.) I’ve been better, kid. (He picks up an apple.) Hungry? (Klonoa suddenly gets an idea.)

Klonoa: Quick, throw that at the clown guy!

Pac-Man: (Confused.) You think a fruit is gonna take care of this guy? Apples only work against doctors, not psycho clowns.

Klonoa: Just do it! (Pac-Man notices the urgency in Klonoa’s voice and chucks the apple towards Dreamy Marx. Klonoa pulls out his Wind Ring and fires a wind bullet at the apple. The apple inflates to become larger and hits Dreamy Marx in the back.)

Dreamy Marx: Huh? (Another large apple hits Dreamy Marx in the face. The camera pans to see Pac-Man frantically throwing apples as Klonoa shoots wind bullets at them. Another apple hits Dreamy Marx as he flies towards Pac-Man and Klonoa. He shoots out crescent blades to cut the other apples flying towards him as he scoops up Pac-Man and Klonoa with his claws.) Let’s go for a riiiiiiide!

Pac-Man: Heeeelp! (Dreamy Marx flies away with them as Klonoa hits Dreamy Marx in the face with his ears. This causes Dreamy Marx to sneeze.)

Dreamy Marx: Ah… ah… achoo! (Dreamy Marx drops Klonoa as he uses his ears to glide to the ground. He calls up to Pac-Man.)

Klonoa: Pac!

Pac-Man: Be right down! (Pac-Man attempts to punch Dreamy Marx as he flies around. Dreamy Marx then teleports around frantically. After the last teleport, Pac-Man falls out of Dreamy Marx’s grasp and starts falling to the ground far below.) Nonononono! (NiGHTS flies in and catches Pac-Man in midair, now back in their normal form.)

NiGHTS: Gotcha! (We cut back to Dreamy Marx as he fires another beam at NiGHTS. This one skins their arm as NiGHTS and Pac-Man fall to the ground hard. Klonoa runs up and joins them.)

Klonoa: Are you guys okay?

NiGHTS: I’ll be fine.

Pac-Man: (Puts his hands to his head in fear.) He’s coming! (Klonoa and NiGHTS look over to see Dreamy Marx fly towards them. He stops and floats in midair.)

Dreamy Marx: This has been fun, but I better wrap this up. (Dreamy Marx splits in half vertically.) Farewell! (A black hole appears between the Marx halves as it begins trying to suck our heroes in. Klonoa begins to fly in, but NiGHTS grabs his hand.)

Klonoa: Help meeee!

NiGHTS: Don’t worry! (Pac-Man tries to run from the black hole, but begins to get sucked in. We also see lots of different fruits begin to get sucked in.)

Pac-Man: How much fruit is in this nightmare world?

Dreamy Marx: (Voice distorted.) As many as you can dreeeaaam of!

Pac-Man: As many as I can dream of? (Pac-Man looks at the barrage of fruit incoming as he sees a Power Pellet in the cacophony.) Of course! It’s a dream! (Pac-Man stops running and begins flying towards the black hole.)

Klonoa: Pac, what are you doing?! (As Pac-Man flies towards the black hole, the Power Pellet flies into his mouth. We see Pac-Man grow gigantic in size as he transforms into Super Pac-Man. He looks down upon Dreamy Marx before chomping down on him. The numbers 7650 appear where Dreamy Marx was floating before disappearing. Pac-Man then turns back to normal as he chews on something.)

Pac-Man: Yuch! Doesn’t taste too good. (He spits out Marx, now in his normal form.)

Marx: No! How could I be defeated like this? (The dream world begins to fade away.) No! Nooooo! (The screen goes to white as we slowly fade back into the real world. We see Klonoa, Pac-Man, and NiGHTS lying asleep in the forest as they slowly wake up. They look around to see a singing Jigglypuff (Pokemon).)

Jigglypuff: Jigglyyyyypuff. Jigglyyyyypuuuuuff. (We see a pac-dot hit the Jigglypuff, which makes it stop singing.) Jiggly! (The Jigglypuff looks angrily at our heroes and storms off.) Puuuuuff!

Klonoa: That thing’s lullaby must’ve put us to sleep.

NiGHTS: (Looking around.) That pipsqueak got away though. (NiGHTS balls their fists.) If I ever see him again, I’ll beat his face in! (We see Pac-Man chewing on something as he spits out the Dream Stone.)

Pac-Man: Bleh! (NiGHTS picks it up.)

NiGHTS: You got the Dream Stone?!

Pac-Man: Yeah, it tastes awful.

NiGHTS: Marx told me that this is capable of great power. (Klonoa grabs it from NiGHTS.)

Klonoa: Then we shouldn’t be messing with it. (He gives it to Pac-Man.) Here, Pac, you hold onto it for now.

Pac-Man: My pleasure. (He studies it.) We should find someone who knows what it does. If this is really powerful, it could help me out against Master Mind. It could get me home.

Klonoa: Then we’ll find someone who can help us. (NiGHTS floats up to them.)

NiGHTS: I’ll help you too! (NiGHTS looks sheepish.) And… sorry about attacking you. Guess I shouldn’t have believed everything Marx said.

Pac-Man: Water under the bridge. (Pac-Man walks forward.) Let’s get going then! Time is of the essence, and I’m not sure how much time we have left. (Klonoa nods as our three heroes set off to find Master Mind.)

End of Episode

Chapter 31: Human Revolution

(The episode begins looking at a plane landing strip. Smaller planes are seen landing on the strip. We cut to see Gulliver (Animal Crossing) and Cid (Final Fantasy) talking next to a jet. We see Tracer walk by and greet them as Gulliver and Cid happily wave at her. We see Tracer being approached by Fernando Esparza (Halo) as he greets her.)

Fernando: Morning, Tracer. You’re pretty chipper today.

Tracer: Just excited to get flying, Fernando! I can’t wait to get out there. Feels like forever since I’ve last flown. (Tracer looks at the multiple planes on the runway.)

Fernando: Well, finish up your preparations. We’ll be setting off soon. (Fernando walks off. Tracer also begins to walk off as she passes an open hangar. A loud crashing sound is heard from inside as Tracer stops.)

Tracer: Huh? (Tracer slowly enters the hangar as more crashing sounds are heard.) Who’s in here? (Tracer pulls out her Pulse Pistols as she moves through the hangar.) I’m warnin’ ya! No funny business. (She sees a line of crates as more noises come from behind it. Tracer approaches the crates as she quickly jumps behind them.) Aha! (The camera pans to see Emerl on the ground surrounded by gas canisters that have been knocked over. Emerl cowers in fear of Tracer.)

Emerl: P-Please don’t hurt me...I think I’m lost. (Tracer puts her pistols away and leans down to talk to Emerl.)

Tracer: I’m not gonna hurt you, little guy. (She holds out her hand.) Here, I’ll help you up. (Emerl carefully reaches out his hand and Tracer helps him up.) My name’s Lena, but everyone calls me Tracer. What’s your name?

Emerl: My name is Emerl. Everyone calls me Emerl as well.

Tracer: Pleasure to meet you, Emerl. How about we get you out of this hangar, then we can work on getting you back home. (Emerl’s eyes are filled with joy as he nods.)

Emerl: I would like that! Thank you, Tracer. (Tracer laughs as explosions are heard outside the hangar.)

Tracer: What was that? (Tracer and Emerl head towards the exit as they see black smoke billowing through the opening of the hangar. Suddenly, Lyric (Sonic the Hedgehog) slithers into the hangar, flanked by his Swordsman Troopers (Sonic the Hedgehog).)

Lyric: You! (Tracer and Emerl stop, with Emerl hiding behind Tracer.) Nowhere you can run now!

Tracer: Who are you?

Lyric: I am Lyric! Fierce roboticist and now humble partner to the supreme Sigma. I’ve been tracking your little friend over there for some time now. He has proven to be quite tricky to catch. (The camera pans to see Emerl frightened behind Tracer.)

Tracer: You’re not gonna lay a finger…er…uh…robotic claw on him. (She pulls out her Pulse Pistols.)

Lyric: Then prepare to be destroyed, you waste of carbon! (To Swordsman Troopers.) Kill the girl and grab the gizoid! (The Swordsman Troopers run towards Tracer and Emerl. One of them swings at Tracer as she backflips out of the way. Emerl dives away from the conflict. Tracer then shoots continuous shots at the Swordsman Trooper, destroying it. Tracer blinks forward to another Swordsman Trooper and shoots its arm holding the sword off.)

Tracer: Cheers, love! (She holsters one pistol and grabs the sword and slashes the Swordsman Trooper. We cut to Emerl as a Swordsman Trooper approaches him. As it tries to grab him, he backflips out of the way, perfectly mimicking Tracer.)

Emerl: Cheers, love. (We cut back to Tracer as she throws the sword into another Swordsman Trooper, destroying it. She then rapidly shoots another Swordsman Trooper running at her.)

Tracer: Look at me go! (Lyric’s large snake tail swings in and hits Tracer. She hits the wall of the hangar and lands on the ground, barely conscious.) Ugh… (She looks up to see Lyric grab Emerl by the head with the claw on his tail. He begins to slither away.)

Lyric: A pathetic display. (To Swordsman Troopers.) Back to TronGrave Labs. (Lyric exits as Tracer slowly gets up, bloodied and bruised. She staggers out of the hangar to see the area in flames.)

Tracer: Oh no… (We cut away to the city as we see smoke rising into the air from far away. The camera zooms out to reveal Adam Jensen smoking a cigarette as he notices the smoke.)

Jensen: Oh sh*t. (The camera fades to black as we go forward a few days. We see Tracer gloomily sitting in a plane and looking up at the sky as a voice is suddenly heard.)

???: Lena Oxton? (Tracer looks down to see Jensen looking up at her.)

Tracer: Who’s asking?

Jensen: Adam Jensen. I understand that this site was subject to an attack a few days ago. (Tracer jumps down from her plane and begins walking away. Jensen follows.) And I also understand that you are the only survivor from those who were here that day.

Tracer: Are you some kind of bobby?

Jensen: No, actually. I believe that this attack is connected to a conspiracy being orchestrated in the city. A mysterious name keeps popping up. Does the name “Sigma” mean anything to you? (Tracer stops.) I take that to mean it does. (Tracer turns to Jensen.)

Tracer: Yeah, one of his cronies attacked me. Stole something pretty important. Who is this Sigma bloke?

Jensen: A weapons manufacturer of sorts. From my understanding, he’s been looking for some kind of machine. One capable of near-perfect mimicry. Weaponizing it seems to be his goal. If you have anymore informa-

Tracer: TronGrave Labs. (There’s a pause.) That’s where they took my friend.

Jensen: Your friend?

Tracer: He’s a robot named Emerl. They were looking for him. I have to help him. (Jensen begins to walk away.)

Jensen: I’ll make sure to get him back for you. (Tracer runs up to Jensen.)

Tracer: I’m going with ya! (Jensen turns to her.)

Jensen: I don’t work with others.

Tracer: I already know where this Sigma is doing his dirty work. So either I go with you, or I go in alone. Means bugger all to me. (Jensen pauses for a moment.)

Jensen: Fine, but you listen to me. If you don’t follow orders, you will get yourself killed. These are dangerous people. (Tracer smiles.)

Tracer: You can count on me, Jensen. (She pulls out her Pulse Pistols.) Look out, world! Here I come! (To Jensen.) Lead the way.

Jensen: (To himself.) I never asked for this. (Jensen leads Tracer towards the city.)

(We cut to night as we see a large building with the words TronGrave Labs on the side. We cut to the inside of the building to see Emerl with his arms and legs bolted to the wall. His eyes are closed. We hear a door open and footsteps as Emerl’s eyes open.)

Emerl: Who’s there? (The camera pans to see Sigma being followed by Lyric as they approach Emerl.)

Sigma: How fascinating. I’ve only seen this type of power used by the Maverick Hunters, but this doesn’t look like one of them.

Lyric: They’re called gizoids. This one was made by the esteemed Gerald Robotnik. I’ve found his grandson unreliable, but it seems that Gerald was quite masterful in his class.

Sigma: And this gizoid is capable of near-perfect mimicry. Master Mind will be quite satisfied with our efforts. (Sigma and Lyric begin leaving the room. To Lyric.) Prepare for the deconstruction procedure. We shall upload this ability into our soldiers. (They leave the room as Emerl looks sadly at the ground.)

(We cut to Tracer and Jensen hiding behind a building as they stake out TronGrave Labs. They see a door on the side of the building with a red light above it. A trio of Swordsman Troopers walks up to it. They pause for a second before the light turns green and the door opens. They walk inside.)

Jensen: That’s our way in.

Tracer: Looks like it only recognizes those bots. How are we gonna get in? (The light on the door suddenly turns green and it opens.)

Jensen: Like that. (Jensen runs towards the door as Tracer looks bewildered before following.)

Tracer: How’d ya do that?

Jensen: I started hacking the door as soon as we got here. (We see them get to the door as Jensen pulls out a silenced pistol, with Tracer readying her Plasma Pistols. They look around the corner inside the building before sneakily entering the building. We cut to them sneaking through a hallway before they find themselves at a crossroads, with another hallway going perpendicular to the one they’re in.) Let’s cross to the other side. Just make sure no one sees you. (Tracer blinks to the other side.)

Tracer: (Quietly.) Made it!

Jensen: How did you-? (He stops as he hears footsteps. He leans further against the wall as the camera pans to see two Guardroids (Mega Man) patrolling down the hall. Jensen forms a blade on his right arm. As they pass, Jensen jumps out into the hallway and slices the head off of one before shooting the other in the head, destroying both of them.) That was close. (He looks to where Tracer was to find that she’s disappeared.) Godd*mnit. (He walks to where he thinks Tracer went.)

(We cut to Tracer sneaking down a hallway. She comes across an open doorway and crouches next to it. Inside, we see two Guardroids holding Emerl by each arm. They begin to strap Emerl to the wall as Tracer leaps out from cover.)

Tracer: Cheers! (She fires at both of them as they’re knocked to the ground.)

Emerl: Tracer! (He runs up and hugs Tracer.)

Tracer: You’re safe now, little guy. (The eyes of one of the Guardroids suddenly glows red as an alarm sounds from it.) Bollocks… (We cut to see Lyric and Sigma standing in a large room with computer terminals lining the walls. They hear the alarm.)

Sigma: Trouble…

Lyric: Not to worry, Sigma. My men will take care of it. (We cut to Jensen in the middle of a hallway as he hears the alarm.)

Jensen: Sh*t! (He attempts to run towards where the sound is coming from, but is stopped by a group of Swordsman Troopers. He then turns around to see another group behind him.) Fine, but you asked for it. One Swordsman Trooper slashes at him, but Jensen stops it with his own blade. He then shoots a Swordsman Trooper behind him with his pistol before cutting off the hand of the first Swordsman Trooper. He then stabs it. Jensen then stabs another Swordsman Trooper while simultaneously grabbing it with the same arm. He throws it into another pair of them behind him before repeatedly shooting at another one in front of him. The alarm stops as we suddenly hear Tracer.)

Tracer: The cavalry’s here! (Tracer jumps in and fires at Swordsman Troopers behind Jensen. Emerl follows behind her as he fires shots identical to Tracer’s from his hands at the enemies. This destroys the rest of the Swordsman Troopers.)

Jensen: (To Tracer. Angrily.) Lena, you-

Tracer: Tracer. Call me Tracer.

Jensen: I told you to follow my instructions, or else you’ll get yourself killed.

Tracer: I thought you were right behind me. (Emerl walks up to Jensen.)

Emerl: Who’s this, Tracer?

Tracer: This is Adam, Emerl! He helped me find you.

Emerl: Alright! A friend of Tracer is a friend of mine. (He looks intently at Jensen’s blade as he retracts it back into his arm.)

Jensen: Alright, we’ve found your friend. Now let’s get out of here before anymore robots find us. (We hear the voice of Lyric.)

Lyric: Too late for that! (The camera pans to see Lyric slithering down the hallway towards our heroes.)

Emerl: Run! (Emerl grabs Tracer’s and Jensen’s hands as he leads them down the hallway. Lyric attempts to grab at them with his hands, but Tracer turns and shoots at them.)

Tracer: Hands off! (Emerl leads them into the large terminal room as they stop in the middle. Lyric stands in the doorway they just came from as they hear Sigma.)

Sigma: We meet at last. (Our heroes look upwards to see the roof open. The Death Rogumer is floating above them outside, with Sigma standing on a platform attached to it.) I assume you came searching for this. (Sigma holds up a green USB device.) This comes from your little friend down there. (He points to Emerl as the camera pans over to him.) This device will allow me to replicate his abilities on any machine I choose. (Emerl gets a look of shame.)

Emerl: I’m sorry, Tracer. I couldn’t stop them from replicating my data. (The camera pans back up to Sigma.)

Sigma: And just to make sure no one else will be able to replicate your ability. (To Lyric.) Lyric, kill them all. (The Death Rogunner flies away as we cut to Lyric.)

Lyric: With pleasure! (Lyric swipes his tail at our heroes as Jensen and Emerl leap over it. Tracer gets hit by it.)

Tracer: Not again! (Tracer uses Recall and teleports back to where she was standing as she fires at Lyric. We see Jensen move to Lyric’s right as he fires shots.)

Lyric: Such weakness! (Lyric grabs Jensen and slams him into the ground with his large hand. After he slams him twice, he throws him at a wall. Tracer blinks over to him and catches him.)

Tracer: Gotcha, love! (She puts Jensen down as he activates two arm blades.)

Jensen: Let’s kill this b*stard. (He runs towards Lyric. We cut to Emerl as he fires projectiles from his hands at Lyric. Lyric turns to him.)

Lyric: I’ll break you! (Lyric attempts to smash his tail on Lyric. He dodges the first two strikes, but is crushed by the third one.) Hahahaha! (We see Jensen run up to Lyric and slash at his exposed skin with both blades. Emerl watches this as Lyric spins around and trips Jensen with his tail. We see Emerl slowly get up as he forms his own blades on his arms.)

Emerl: Me too… (Emerl runs towards Lyric. We cut to Tracer and Jensen firing at Lyric.)

Lyric: Your puny weapons are no match for me-aaaaaagh! (Lyric screams out as we cut to see Emerl cutting his tail with his two blades. Emerl cuts the tail clean off as Lyric falls to the ground.) No! I won’t let you defeat me! (A Pulse Bomb suddenly flies through the air and sticks itself to Lyric’s glass dome.) Huh?! (The camera pans to Tracer and Jensen.)

Tracer: Blimey, I’m good! (We cut back to Lyric trying to remove the Pulse Bomb.)

Lyric: No! Nooooo! (The bomb explodes. As the smoke clears, we see the glass has shattered and Lyric has died. We cut to Emerl walking up to Tracer and Jensen.)

Emerl: Thank you for saving me! (He turns to Lyric.) The bad guys said my ability was special. It really hurt when they were poking around my circuits.

Jensen: Sigma has everything he needs now. We need to put an end to his master plan before it’s impossible to stop.

Tracer: Then we’ll stop him, won’t we? (Emerl shakes his head ecstatically.)

Emerl: It’s my fault he has my data. I need to stop him. (Tracer turns to Jensen.)

Tracer: How about you, Adam? (Jensen gives a single nod.)

Jensen: I’m not letting Sigma get away with this. Just don’t make me regret joining you.

Tracer: In that case, we better head out. The world needs heroes, boys, so let’s get going! (Tracer leads the way out of the building as Emerl and Jensen follow. The camera pans up to the hole in the ceiling as the camera fades to black.)

End of Episode

Chapter 32: Jack of Blades

(The episode begins looking upon a Japanese-style castle. Outside the castle, we see minions (Fable) patrolling the area. We cut to the inside of the castle as we see Ayame (Tenchu) being escorted by two minions with her hands bound behind her. We see them reach some sort of throne room as one minion pushes her to the ground. We hear a voice.)

???: Well, what have we here? (The camera pans to see Jack of Blades sitting on a throne. His sword lays at his side as he stands up.) Another rebel attempting to put an end to my holy intervention.

Ayame: You won’t have your way, Jack of Blades. There are many more like me who won’t kneel down to you. (She attempts to stand up, but is blocked by the double-edged swords of the minions.)

Jack: Try as you might, there is no hope at dethroning me. I am no mortal man. The Gods and demons you fear and worship are as nothing to me. (Jack grabs his sword.)

Ayame: Are you going to kill me?

Jack: No no, I’m not going to kill you. (Jack turns to a shadowy corner of the room.) He is. (The camera pans to the corner as we see a figure walk out from the darkness. The figure is revealed to be Ryu Hayabusa, now with a shadowy aura around him and yellow eyes.) A gift from Master Mind. (Hayabusa approaches Ayame and unsheathes his katana. He holds it up to his face and closes his eyes.)

Hayabusa: The ninja strikes. (He quickly slashes his blade as we hear the sound of steel cutting through flesh. A thud is heard as Hayabusa opens his eyes. We cut to see the minions carrying away Ayame’s body, with where her head would be not being shown. Jack approaches Hayabusa.)

Jack: Excellent work, Hayabusa.

Hayabusa: I carry out your desires, master. (We hear the sound of a door opening as a voice is heard.)

???: Master! (The camera pans to see Sheik enter the room. He approaches Jack.)

Jack: Yes, Sheik.

Sheik: The princess has been spotted in the village. I must leave at once to ensure her capture.

Jack: Then begone and return with the princess of Hyrule. (Sheik leaves the room. Hayabusa attempts to follow, but Jack stops him.) Not you, Hayabusa. I have a separate task for you in the village.

Hayabusa: What will you have me do?

Jack: Gather the minions and set fire to the village. (Whispering.) And keep an eye on Sheik. I am not familiar with the Sheikah, and Sheik has proven to be mysterious despite his loyalty to me.

Hayabusa: As you wish. (Hayabusa exits the room.)

(We cut to the skies as we see Ho-oh (Pokemon) flying past a rainbow. The camera pans down to see a village with people milling about. We see Ichiban Kasuga (Yakuza) Standing next to a building as Huang Lee (Grand Theft Auto) walks out of a nearby building. We cut to another part of the village as we see Goemon gleefully walking through with his kiseru. He stops as he sees a Persian (Pokemon) laying on the ground, sad. Goemon walks up to it.)

Goemon: Awww, what’s the matter little guy? (The Persian looks over to a nearby fish cart being helmed by C.J. (Animal Crossing). Fish lay across the top of it.) Are you hungry? (The Persian nods.)

Persian: Puuuuurr…

Goemon: Don’t worry, I’ll get you something to eat. (Goemon walks over to the fish cart. As he walks over to the cart, we see him trip and drop a bundle of coins.) Oops! (An exclamation point appears over C.J.’s head as he notices.)

C.J.: You took quite a tumble. Let me help you out. (C.J. leans down and helps Goemon pick up his coins.)

Goemon: Thanks. (As C.J. helps him out, Goemon swipes a fish off the cart with his kiseru and puts it in his pocket. C.J. grabs the rest of Goemon’s coins and hands it to him.)

C.J.: Here you are! (Goemon grabs the coins.)

Goemon: Thanks for the help! (Goemon walks back to the Persian and grabs the fish out of his pocket. He puts it on the ground as the Persian quickly begins eating it.)

Persian: Persian! (Goemon smiles and skips away. He then stops as the camera pans to see a group of two minions and two Dreadwings (Fable) huddled at the side of the wooden house.)

Goemon: What’s going on there? (We cut to the enemies as one of the Dreadwings holds up his double-sided staff as flames begin to crackle at the end of the staff. Three coins suddenly fly into the staff and wedge themselves in. The enemies look over to see Goemon.) Your evil plans end now!

Minion #1: Grrrr! (The minion points at Goemon using his sword as the other enemies run towards him. The second minion reaches Goemon and swipes horizontally at him with his sword, but Goemon backflips over it. A Dreadwing behind Goemon shoots lightning at him. Goemon hits the minion who attacked him over the head with his kiseru and uses the leverage to flip over him as the lightning hits the minion.)

Goemon: Yah! (Goemon throws flaming coins at the Dreadwing, which knocks it down. The second Dreadwing runs up to Goemon and attempts to hit him with his staff. Goemon hits the staff with his kiseru and flips over the staff. He then fires lightning at the Dreadwing which sends it flying onto its back, dead. The last minion runs at Goemon as needles suddenly fly into its neck. It falls backwards.) Huh? (The sound of a harp is heard as Goemon hears a voice.)

???: Impressive work. (Goemon looks to the rooftop to see Sheik strumming a harp.) Those were no ordinary soldiers. You must be a very skilled fighter.

Goemon: (Smugly.) I guess you could say that. (Sheik drops down to meet him. He puts the harp away.)

Sheik: They were sent by Jack of Blades. He plans to take this town for himself as the start of his conquest. (Goemon looks over at the peaceful town.)

Goemon: He can’t do that! This town is so nice.

Sheik: And they’ll be helpless to do anything. (A look of determination crosses Goemon’s face.)

Goemon: Show me where Jack of Blades is. I can’t let him hurt these peaceful people. (Sheik points behind Goemon.)

Sheik: Follow the path in that direction, and you shall find his castle. Before you can defeat him, you must free the samurai from his shadowy curse. Only then will Jack be defeated.

Goemon: (Nodding.) You got it, mister! (We cut away to see Hayabusa in an alleyway. The camera cuts again to see him watching Goemon and Sheik as Goemon sets off. We cut back to Sheik as we see Hayabusa approach him from behind, katana unsheathed.)

Hayabusa: What were you saying to the boy, Sheik?

Sheik: I asked him about the princess, but he knew nothing. He wants to kill our master, so I have set him towards the castle for you to ambush him. (He looks hayabusa in the eye.) Jack of Blades will show great appreciation towards you if you can kill this intruder. (Hayabusa sets off after Goemon.)

Hayabusa: Then it shall be done.

(We cut to Goemon as he walks down a path surrounded by trees. The castle is seen in the distance. Pyoro (Super Mario) is seen in the background eating a pair of cherries.)

Goemon: There’s the castle. Jack of Blades, here I come! (Goemon continues walking as a shuriken suddenly lands at his feet.) Wah?! (He looks around the area, but is unable to find anyone.) Show yourself, coward! (A rustling is heard to the right of Goemon.) Huh? (The figure of Hayabusa suddenly flies through the air over Goemon as two shurikens fly from him. Goemon holds up his kiseru as the shurikens lodge themselves into it. Hayabusa lands in front of Goemon.) Who are you?

Hayabusa: I am Ryu Hayabusa, the ultimate ninja. I serve Jack of Blades. (He readies his katana.) I shall kill you for your attempt on his life. (We see Goemon take the shurikens out of his kiseru.)

Goemon: (To himself.) Free the samurai from his shadowy curse. (He gets into a battle stance.) Bring it on!

Hayabusa: You are brave, but foolish. (Hayabusa sprints towards Goemon as he slashes with his katana. Goemon blocks with his kiseru as Hayabusa flips over him. He slashes at Goemon again and knocks him back.)

Goemon: Gah! (Goemon throws coins at Hayabusa, but he cuts them in half in midair with his katana.)

Hayabusa: You cannot defeat me with currency. (A puff of smoke suddenly appears around Goemon. When it fades, he is revealed to be riding a tiger (Goemon). The tiger pounces on Hayabusa and pins him to the ground. Goemon begins hitting Hayabusa in the head with his kiseru.)

Goemon: How about magic? (The shadow flickers around Hayabusa as the tiger suddenly disappears. Hayabusa takes the opportunity to kick Goemon off of him and Goemon falls onto his back.) Oof! (Hayabusa gets up and holds his head. We see Goemon get up as Haybusa sloppily slashes at Goemon, with Goemon backing up with each slash.)

Hayabusa: I will defeat you! (Goemon trips Hayabusa with his kiseru, causing him to fall. Goemon then hits Hayabusa with his kiseru again as the shadow disappears from him completely. He gets his bearings.) Where… am I? (He holds a hand to his head as he sees Goemon.) Who are you?

Goemon: (Smiling.) My name is Goemon! (He helps Hayabusa up. Hayabusa looks around.)

Hayabusa: What happened? The last thing I remember is fighting Master Mind. (We hear a voice.)

???: He took control of your mind. (Hayabusa and Goemon look towards the voice to see Sheik standing at the treeline. He walks over to Hayabusa and Goemon.)

Goemon: You again.

Sheik: (To Goemon.) Call me Sheik. (To Hayabusa.) Master Mind took control of the minds of you and your friends in his efforts to take over this world. You were given as a gift to Jack of Blades, a warrior hellbent on his own conquest. We both worked for him. (Hayabusa readies his blade.)

Hayabusa: If you work under Master Mind, you are the enemy. (Sheik puts up his hand.)

Sheik: I am no threat to you. My allegiance lies with the Hyrule royal family. Jack of Blades is seeking the Hylian princess, so I created a false allegiance with Jack to ensure her safety. (Hayabusa sheathes his blade.)

Goemon: Why would he want some princess?

Sheik: Princess Zelda holds the power of the Triforce of Wisdom. He’s planning a ritual to take this power for himself and kill her before the townspeople as a sign of power. The two of you must stop him before he can enact his plans.

Hayabusa: Then we must move swiftly.

Goemon: I’ll lead us there!

Hayabusa: (To Sheik.) Will you join us?

Sheik: I’m afraid not, but may the Goddesses aid you on your quest. (Sheik throws down a deku nut as a bright flash fills the screen. After the flash dissipates, we see Sheik is gone. We see Goemon turn to Hayabusa.)

Goemon: Let’s get going. We’ve got a princess that needs saving. (The two of them walk away.)

(We cut to outside the castle as minions continue to patrol the area. We see two stationed at the entrance as Hayabusa and Goemon approach it. The minions hold up their swords as Hayabusa speaks to them.)

Hayabusa: I found someone else attempting an attack on the master. I’ve brought him to be killed. (The minions nod as they open the doors. Hayabusa and Goemon enter. We cut to the throne room of Jack of Blades. He stands facing away from the door. The door suddenly opens as Hayabusa and Goemon walk in. Jack glances behind him.)

Jack: Hayabusa, you’ve returned, and not alone. Tell me, how many screamed out in terror as you set the town ablaze. (We see Goemon close the door as Hayabusa readies his blade. Jack fully turns towards our heroes.) I take it you’ve finally regained full control of your mind then. (He grabs his sword.) Pity, I was beginning to enjoy your presence.

Hayabusa: Your conquest will end before it can truly begin.

Goemon: Yeah, and we won’t let you touch the princess either.

Jack: Even with both of you, your power pales in contrast to mine. (A familiar voice is heard.)

???: Maybe, but they’re not alone. (Sheik drops down from the ceiling in between our heroes and Jack.)

Jack: You too, Sheik?

Sheik: My name is not Sheik. (A flash of light covers the area. As the light fades, we see the figure of Zelda where Sheik previously stood.)

Goemon: The princess?!

Zelda: Your tyranny ends now, Jack. (She unsheathes her rapier.)

Jack: If you fail this holy conquest, your power will belong to me, princess.

Zelda: I cannot sit idly by as you ally yourself with Master Mind. I must take a stand for my people. (Hayabusa and Goemon walk up beside her.)

Jack: Then prepare to face the full might of a warrior from the Void. (Jack lunges at our heroes and slashes at Zelda. She blocks the attack as Hayabusa attempts to strike. Jack blocks the attack and kicks Zelda away. Goemon attempts to hit Jack with his kiseru, but Jack flies into the air and dodges the attack. Jack fires a wave of energy out of his sword.)

Zelda: Look out! (Zelda encapsulates Goemon in Nayru’s Love.)

Goemon: Ah! (The wave hits Nayru’s Love and disappears. Nayru’s Love shatters as Goemon begins throwing coins at Jack. Jack hits them away.)

Jack: A pathetic display! (We see Hayabusa jump onto the wall before leaping towards Jack with his katana. Jack flies at Hayabusa and slashes him away with his sword.)

Hayabusa: Gah! (He falls onto the ground.) I will defeat all evil. (He throws shurikens at Jack, who blocks them with his sword. A barrage of knives then fly into Jack’s back.)

Jack: Gah! (The camera turns to see Zelda holding a fist of throwing knives.)

Zelda: I was trained in the way of the Sheikah!

Jack: Then you shall die a warrior! (Jack shoots a magical projectile at Zelda from his sword. Zelda uses Din’s Fire to create a shield of fire. The projectile disappears as it touches the fire. Zelda then pulls out a dominion rod and shoots a fireball at Jack. Jack flies through the air to avoid it. Behind him, we see Hayabusa pull out a bow and shoot Jack in the back.)

Hayabusa: You have shown me the power of a demon. (Jack begins to charge another projectile as Goemon’s kiseru flies through the air into Jack’s head. It lands beneath Jack.)

Jack: Such primitive tactics. (Goemon runs underneath Jack, grabs his kiseru, and throws flaming coins up at Jack, with a few of them skinning him.) Gah! (Jack lands on the ground and slashes at Hayabusa’s chest, knocking him into the wall. Goemon grabs onto Jack’s back, but Jack grabs Goemon’s hair and flings him at the wall. Zelda then runs up and slashes Jack. Jack turns and grabs Zelda by the neck.)

Zelda: Ah! (Jack begins choking Zelda.)

Jack: This little stunt you pulled was impressive, princess, I’ll give you that. (Zelda inconspicuously waves her hand at Hayabusa as the triforce glows on her hand.) But your efforts mean nothing to a warrior of my caliber. (Hayabusa looks at his bow to see a light arrow appear in it. He crouches down and readies the bow.) Now the power of the Triforce will be mine, and I shall slit your throat and end your royal bloodline.

Zelda: Now! (Zelda uses Farore’s Wind, causing a magic light to envelop her as she teleports out of Jack’s hands.)

Jack: Huh?! (Jack turns to Hayabusa as he fires the light arrow. The arrows pierces through Jack’s heart as a brilliant light travels through the air. Jack falls to his knees.) You’re too late… everything you’ve done has been… for nothing. (Jack falls over, dead. We see Hayabusa help Goemon up as Zelda approaches them.)

Zelda: He may be gone, but Master Mind still persists.

Hayabusa: There must be more like me out there who have had their minds stolen by him. I cannot allow him to finish his plans.

Zelda: I shall lead us to him. Together we stand a chance at defeating him. (Goemon pumps his fist.)

Goemon: Yeah! I’m not gonna stand around while these bad guys prey on the weak. (Hayabusa turns to Zelda.)

Hayabusa: Princess.

Zelda: Please, call me Zelda. While we are at war, we are equals.

Hayabusa: Very well then. Zelda, please lead us towards Master Mind.

Zelda: (Smiles.) It will be my pleasure. (Farore’s Wind suddenly envelops all three heroes as they are teleported out of the castle. The screen fades to black.)

End of Episode

Chapter 33: Interlude

(The episode begins in the campus laboratory that we saw in Ch3E7. We see Zeke and Charlotte studying books and writing in a notebook respectively.)

Zeke: Fascinating. Utterly fascinating.

Charlotte: You understand what these books are saying?

Zeke: (Blushing.) Y-Yeah, kinda. It’s not the easiest to understand, but it’s kinda like my own secret language.

Charlotte: (Laughing.) I’m only understanding about half of this. Guess I’m lucky to have you here.

Zeke: Oh yeah?

Charlotte: (Blushing.) Yeah, I’d consider myself pretty lucky. (There’s a pause before Bill bursts into the laboratory.)

Bill: Zeke the geek! How’re ya doing, buddy?

Zeke: (Surprised.) B-Bill! What’re you doing here?

Bill: Heard you were slaving away in your lab again, so I came down here to give you a brain break. (Bill pulls out a small handheld gaming device.) Baboom! The new PlayAway Omega with the brand new Knights of Grimm game.

Zeke: (Excited.) You got it?! I thought they were sold out.

Bill: Scooped up the last one this morning. You’re welcome. (Charlotte walks over, also visibly excited.)

Charlotte: Woah! I love Knights of Grimm, my brothers and I would take turns playing it when we were little.

Zeke: Y-You’re a Knights of Grimm fan too?

Charlotte: How could I not be? (She takes on a galant pose and does a posh voice.) Where be the way to Grennfern Castle? (She drops the impression.) I played that game to death.

Bill: Well, then we better see what the Knights of Grimm have been up to in their new adventure. (He hands Zeke the PlayAway Omega.) Zeke, you’re the expert here, so you get to play first. (Zeke smiles as he looks at his friends.)

Zeke: I guess a little break won’t hurt anything. (We see Zeke, Bill, and Charlotte smile as Zeke turns on the game.)

(We go back to the present day as we see Master Mind. He stands in front of Cortex and Specter in the helm of the Helghan Cruiser.)

Master Mind: I need the two of you to search for the shards of the Shadow Crystal.

Cortex: Master Mind, don’t you think that geniuses of our calibur would be more helpful in the technical area of your master plan?

Master Mind: Geniuses of your calibur have proven to be weak and unreliable. Your enemies consist of animals and children.

Cortex: Crash is no mere animal.

Master Mind: Which is why I’m sending him with you. (The door to the room opens as Crash and Aku-Aku, both covered in shadow with yellow eyes, enter the room.)

Specter: You’re sending us with that simple-minded bandicoot?! (He studies Crash.) My apes have more brain power in their pinky toe than this animal holds in its entire body.

Master Mind: It wouldn’t hurt to have more fodder. (Crash begins looking up at the ceiling. He suddenly falls onto his back.)

Crash: Oof!

Master Mind: Even if he’s an idiot. (To Cortex and Specter.) Now, go and retrieve the shards of the Shadow Crystal.

Cortex/Specter: Yes, Master Mind. (Cortex, Specter, Crash, and Aku-Aku leave the room.)

Master Mind: Now, my next order of business. (The door opens again as Kratos enters the room with a dark aura and yellow eyes.)

Kratos: What shall you have me do, Master Mind?

End of Episode

Chapter 34: Mirror’s Edge

(The episode begins looking at a bustling cityscape. The camera focuses on a small city convenience store with people walking about. We see a figure walk into the store as we cut inside. The cashier pays them no mind as the figure walks into one of the aisles. The figure crouches down as we see that they are Faith Connors. Faith opens up her runner bag and begins stuffing it with food that’s on the shelf. The cashier suddenly takes notice.)

Cashier: Hey! What the f*ck do you think you’re doing?

Faith: Sh*t. (Faith stuffs her bag with a few more things before closing it. The cashier gets up and approaches her.)

Cashier: Put that food back right now or I swear to God. (He gets closer to Faith as she suddenly puts her leg up on one of the shelves and vaults over the parallel shelf close to the exit. She sprints out the door as the cashier chases her. We cut to Faith running past two officers on the sidewalk.)

Officer #1: Woah! (The camera pans to see the cashier exit the convenience store as he shouts at the officers.)

Cashier: Thief! Stop her! (The officers give chase after Faith as we see them run through the streets. We cut to Faith crossing a busy intersection. A taxi screeches to a halt as Faith seamlessly slides across the front. Axel (Crazy Taxi) leans out the window.)

Axel: Watch where you’re going! (The cops follow while avoiding traffic as cars honk. The chase continues as Faith turns into an alleyway. A large fence blocks her path as the two cops catch up.)

Officer #2: Ride ends here. Turn yourself in. (Faith looks up to see a fixed ladder on the side of the building. Faith then runs up the adjacent wall and leaps onto the ladder. She pulls herself up as the officers run underneath her. We see Faith run up stairs on the side of the building before she climbs up to the roof.)

Officer #1: The roof! Get to the roof! (We cut to the officers reaching the roof as Faith is nowhere to be seen.) D*mmit.

Officer #2: The f*ck did she go? (The camera shifts upwards and pans to a different area of the city as we see Faith jumping from roof to roof. We cut to her landing on a rooftop and rolling. She startles a flock of birds on the roof.)

Faith: That was a close one. (Faith approaches a shed on top of the building and goes inside. She locks the door and sets her bag down.) Getting harder to survive out here. (She opens her bag and takes out a bag of chips.) This should last me another few days. (She opens the chips and begins eating.)

(We cut to that night. We see Faith asleep in the shed with the bag of chips, now empty, on the ground. The sound of helicopter blades is suddenly heard, which wakes Faith.)

Faith: Huh? (She gets up and looks outside the shed window to see a helicopter has landed on the building. We see Wesker and Dark Matter exit the helicopter.) Who’s that guy? (We cut outside to Wesker and Dark Matter as they look towards the sky.)

Wesker: (To Dark Matter.) How about we call some of your friends? (Dark Matter nods as the camera zooms out, watching the city.)

(We cut to the city during the daytime. Cars drive through the streets as we cut to Captain Falcon holding three chili dogs. He walks to an outdoors table where Sonic and Duke Nukem are sitting and sits the food down.)

Sonic: Thanks. (He holds up the chili dog.) I could use a good chili dog after everything that’s happened. (Sonic looks over the lively city.) Funny, you wouldn’t be able to tell the world is in trouble by looking at it. (We cut to a building with a large window where Wii Fit Trainer (Wii Fit) is seen leading people in yoga. We cut again to see Roboy (Jet Set Radio) skating down the street as people look at him strangely. We cut once again to see Jelonzo (Splatoon) selling shirts on the street.)

Falcon: Trouble has been happening everywhere else. Other than that alien, things have been pretty quiet here.

Duke: Word still gets around though. Some people are too afraid to leave their house.

Sonic: But not everyone.

Falcon: People like us put them at ease. Whenever trouble happens, there’s always sightings of someone with a sword or some kind of superhero saving the day.

Sonic: (Sadly.) Not every time…

Duke: We’ll find your friends, kid. Don’t get your panties in a twist. (He takes a bite of his chili dog.)

Sonic: If we don’t stop Master Mind soon, something terrible will happen. (He takes a bite out of his chili dog.)

(We cut to an art studio somewhere in the city. Vince (Art Academy) is leading some kind of art class, with people painting behind easels. He passes by Woody (Wild Woody) using his head to draw a mermaid on his canvas.)

Vince: Excellent painting, Woody! Very inspired. (He then passes by Adeline (Kirby) who is painting a picture of Kirby.) Beautiful, Adeline!

Adeline: (She smiles.) Thanks, sir! (Vince then reaches Maxwell who is drawing on his canvas. The camera angle changes so we cannot see what he’s drawing.)

Vince: And what is this you are painting, Maxwell?

Maxwell: Oh, well… (He steps to the side so that we can clearly see the picture. It’s a colored drawing of Maxwell and his sister, Lily, on a farm.) It’s me and my sister on my brother’s farm.

Vince: Fantastic work! (Vince continues on as Maxwell gazes at the picture, a look of sadness crossing his face.)

Maxwell: Where are you, Lily? (We cut to a little further in time as Maxwell leaves the art studio. He waves to Vince.) Bye, Mr. Vince.

Vince: Goodbye, my dear boy! (Vince waves goodbye. We then cut back to Adeline as she packs up her stuff. She looks back at her painting of Kirby to see that his face has disappeared.)

Adeline: Huh? (She studies the painting, trying to figure out where Kirby’s face went. Suddenly, a single large eye opens on Kirby’s face.) Waaaah! (Adeline falls backwards. Vince looks over.)

Vince: Adeline? (A Dark Matter suddenly flies out of the painting and makes its way out of the building, all the while Adeline and Vince are panicking. We cut to the outside as we see several Dark Matters flying through the city. We hear scared murmurs from the people in the city. We see Maxwell look up to see them flying through the air.)

Maxwell: What’s happening? (We cut back to Sonic, Falcon, and Duke as they get up from eating. They watch the Dark Matter fly around.)

Sonic: What are these things? (A large shadow suddenly looms over the city. Duke notices.)

Duke: Now that is one big son of a b*tch. (Sonic and Falcon look up as their jaws drop. The camera cuts to see 02 (Kirby) floating above the city with Dark Matter flying around it. 02 sends projectiles out from its eyes that explode into a building. We hear screaming as the camera changes to see people running from the Dark Matter.)

Sonic: What’re we gonna do? (Captain Falcon taps on something on his wrist and holds a hand up to his helmet.)

Falcon: I've called for some assistance. (A Dark Matter flies by as he kicks it. Duke pulls out two pistols.)

Duke: Let’s kick some *ss until then. (Duke starts shooting into the air.)

(We cut to Faith as she watches Dark Matter flying outside of her shed window. We see Wesker and his Dark Matter outside the window as he watches the chaos. Faith picks a handgun up off the floor as she watches a man run onto the roof from the stairwell and find Wesker. We cut to Wesker and the man.)

Man: Wh-who are you? What’s going on?! (Wesker grabs the man by his throat.)

Wesker: I am your savior! (Wesker squeezes the man’s throat, strangling him. Before he can die, Faith exits the shed and points her gun at Wesker.)

Faith: Put him down! (Wesker looks over at Faith and proceeds to throw the man off of the building. Faith looks horrified.)

Wesker: How touching of you to try and save him. (Wesker uses his super speed to stand right in front of Faith.) How would you like to join him? (Faith hits Wekser in the face with her gun before kicking him in the stomach. She goes for another punch as Wesker catches her arm. Faith leverages his weight and uses it to throw Wesker over her onto the ground.)

Faith: You’re weak for a savior.

Wesker: (Angrily.) I will show you strength! (Wesker raises his arms as multiple Dark Matter begin to fly into him and fuse with him. Dark energy shines from him as he transforms into a form similar to his Uroboros Wesker form. He shoots tendrils out at Faith as she falls out of the way. The tendrils tear into the helicopter, tearing pieces of it into Dark Wesker’s tendrils. He lifts the helicopter and slams it onto Faith.)

Dark Wesker: You whimpering fool! (We cut to Faith, who crashed through the windshield of the helicopter. She crawls through an opening and begins running away. Dark Wesker notices.) Still alive, eh? (We see Faith jump off of the roof onto another roof nearby, rolling when she lands. Dark Wesker gives chase. He jumps off the roof and hooks onto the other roof using the metal in his tendrils. We cut back to Sonic, Falcon, and Duke fighting Dark Matter as Sonic notices something.)

Sonic: What’s that? (The camera pans as we see Dark Wesker chasing Faith.) Looks like more trouble! (Sonic speeds off, leaving Falcon and Duke. Something suddenly gets Duke’s attention.)

Duke: Here they come! (We see a large swarm of Dark Matter flying towards Falcon and Duke. A missile suddenly flies into the swarm and explodes, killing the Dark Matter.) That’s some heavy firepower. (The camera pans over to see Maxwell holding a missile launcher. He throws it to the ground and picks up his notebook before running over to Falcon and Duke.)

Maxwell: Need some help?

Falcon: Got any more missiles?

Maxwell: I’ve got more than that! (He begins writing in his notebook. We see the word “vacuum” spell out over his head. The words then disappear as a vacuum appears in front of Maxwell. He grabs it and begins sucking up Dark Matter.) Woohoo! (Once he sucks five up, he fires them out and launches them into the stratosphere. At the same time, we see the Falcon Flyer fly into the city and land next to our heroes.)

Falcon: Here’s our ride!

Duke: Hell yeah!

(We cut back to Faith as she runs across a large roof. Dark Wesker’s tendril suddenly shoots forward and blocks her path. She turns around to see Dark Wesker.)

Dark Wesker: There’s no point in running. This world will be mine all the same. (We cut to Sonic running up the side of the building. As he reaches the top, he flies into the air and dives downward, kicking Dark Wesker. He then runs up to join Faith.)

Sonic: Man, what happened to that guy?

Dark Wesker: How dare you defy a God! (Dark Wesker slams his tendril down as Sonic and Faith dive out of the way.)

Faith: (To Sonic.) C’mon! (Faith jumps off the roof and grabs onto an adjacent roof. She pulls herself up as Sonic jumps over to join her. They continue to run as Dark Wesker lands heavily onto the roof, cracking the ground beneath him.)

Dark Wesker: Get back here!

(We cut to the Falcon Flyer flying through the city. Duke and Maxwell are on the roof. Duke fires around with his machine gun as Maxwell wields a flamethrower. Any Dark Matter that fly near them are either shot or scorched. We hear Falcon’s voice from within the Falcon Flyer.)

Falcon: I’ll get you guys close to that monster. Find a way to get rid of it!

Duke: Don’t have to tell me twice. (The Falcon Flyer flies towards 02 as it takes notice. 02 shoots explosive projectiles that Falcon barely avoids. We see Duke shoot more at 02 as the word “magic wand” appears over Maxwell. He summons a magic wand and begins shooting magic at 02.)

Maxwell: Taste my wand!

(We cut back to Sonic and Faith running across a building. Dark Wesker’s tendril suddenly shoots forward and creates a hole in front of them that Faith falls into and Sonic jumps over.)

Faith: Agh! (She lands on a desk underneath her and breaks it. Sonic attempts to turn back, but Dark Wesker jumps in front of him.)

Dark Wesker: Let’s finish this! (Dark Wesker grabs Sonic with his non-tendril hand. He begins to strangle him as we hear a gunshot. Dark Wesker drops to his knees.) Gah! (The camera pans to see Faith holding her gun and shooting from inside the hole. She then jumps up and grabs hold of the roof as she pulls herself up out of the hole. She and Sonic continue to run as we see the Falcon Flyer fly past them.)

(The Falcon Flyer moves through the wings of 02 as it shoots more projectiles. A few hit the Falcon Flyer which shakes Duke and Maxwell.)

Duke: How the hell are we supposed to kill a giant eye?

Maxwell: (Thinking.) Giant eye… (As he looks up, he squints because of the sun’s glare. He then gets an idea.) Aha! (We see him write in his notebook as the words “giant flashlight” appear over his head. A giant flashlight then appears on the Falcon Flyer as he picks it up.) Let’s shed some light on this! (He turns on the flashlight which sends a beam right into 02’s eye. 02 begins flying backwards as its eye closes.)

(We cut back to Sonic and Faith as they jump onto a new building. Dark Wesker lands behind them as our heroes turn to face him.)

Dark Wesker: Running can only get you so far! No matter where you go, this world is mine. (We see 02 moving backwards towards Dark Wesker in the background. 02 is heading right for the building they’re standing on.)

Faith: You’re a mad man blinded by your own ambitions.

Dark Wesker: With this new power, I am blind to nothing!

Sonic: Wanna bet? (Dark Wesker sneers as 02 suddenly crashes into the building they’re all on. Dark Wesker is crushed by 02 as Sonic and Faith run while the building crumbles. They reach the edge.)

Faith: Jump! (They both jump, but Sonic trips. Faith grabs onto the ledge of a nearby building as Sonic looks like he won’t make it. At the last second, Faith grabs his arm.) I’ve got you! (Faith and Sonic look as the building crashes to the ground, with Dark Wesker crushed by 02, now with debris sticking through it. The Falcon Flyer flies up next to Faith and Sonic.)

Maxwell: Need a lift? (Sonic smiles up at Faith.)

(We cut to our five heroes on the ground as emergency vehicles surround the destroyed building. Our heroes are around the Falcon Flyer.)

Maxwell: What were those things?

Sonic: I’m not sure. Something tells me Master Mind is behind this, but I can’t be certain.

Duke: Looks like we nipped it in the bud. That f*cker didn’t stand a chance.

Falcon: We need to put a stop to this now. No one else can get hurt.

Faith: The longer we wait, the more maniacs try to rule the world, and the more people like us suffer outside of our home. (Falcon jumps onto the Falcon Flyer.)

Falcon: Then let’s get going. (Sonic looks over at Duke, Faith, and Maxwell and gives a nod.)

Sonic: Yeah, we don’t have any time to waste. (We cut to the Falcon Flyer flying into the air before speeding off.)

End of Episode

Chapter 35: Super Ethical Reality Climax

(The episode begins at the comic book shop from Ch1E5 of New Game. We see Viewtiful Joe rush out of the shop on his way to stop Sweet Tooth. Shortly after that, Gex exits the shop looking towards where Joe ran off to.)

Gex: Wonder what he’s in a hurry for? (Gex looks around at the city around him.) Ah, now for ol’ Gexy to take Manhattan! (Gex looks over to a street corner to see Professor Genki. A mother with two children quickly walk past him, not making eye contact.)

Genki: Much love for Genki! (The mother and children walk away.) No love for Genki? (We cut back to Gex.)

Gex: Yeesh! This is like a luau at Mel Blanc’s house. (Gex walks up to Genki.) Hey there, big guy. You’re in the wrong spot. Acme is selling weapons to catch Roadrunner down the block. (Genki stares at Gex.) What’s wrong, pal? Never seen a devilishly handsome talking gecko before?

Genki: Genki found you! (Genki takes out a large burlap sack and stuffs Gex into it before slinging it over his shoulders.) Another win for super murder cat!

Gex: Hey! What’s the big idea? You better let me go! I have a very specific set of skills, skills that… (Gex trails off as a blue aura envelops Genki and he takes flight. Citizens stare at Genki as he flies above the city.)

Genki: Weeeeeeee!

(We cut to an abandoned building as we see multiple minions (Whacked!) walking through the area. The camera moves further into the building as we see Van Tastic standing in front of a cracked mirror. His large mask is set next to him as he fixes up his shirt.)

Van: Where is Genki? He should be back by now! (He adjusts his shirt.) Easy now, Van. Watch that blood pressure. You have a show to host! (We cut to see Genki entering the building with the sack still over his shoulder. Van turns around to greet him.) Genki! What took you so long?

Genki: Genki found him! (Genki opens the sack and dumps Gex onto the ground.)

Gex: Hey! Easy on the landing there! (Gex turns to see all the minions in the building.) It seems the cat has brought me to Tim Burton’s newest flick. I’ll need help getting out of this one.

Van: Good work, Genki! Now… (Van holds out his hand.)

Gex: What? You think I’m gonna tip? I need to see the mint on my pillow before you get a cent out of me. (Genki holds out a hand and freezes Gex in place using his telekinesis.) Woah! (Genki then turns Gex upside down and begins shaking him. A remote control falls from Gex and into Van’s outstretched hand.)

Van: Yes! Perfect! (Van walks over to a folding table as Genki floats Gex over to a couple of minions who restrain him.)

Gex: Get your hands off of my remote, buddy! Such sophisticated technology shouldn’t be in the hands of you or the Disney mascot that follows you around.

Van: Quiet, gecko! This remote will finally let me return to stardom. A brand new game show is in the works for Van Tastic!

Gex: Game show? Has Alex Trebek’s influence finally gone too far?

Van: With this remote of yours, I can put my contestants into the game! I’ll be famous, world-renowned, a bigger celebrity than even Adam Sandler!

Gex: (Gasps.) You monster! Your hubris will cost you!

Van: And all I need is this. (Van holds up a Game & Watch console.) I feel a reboot coming on… (He laughs maniacally.)

(We cut to the present day. We see a large game show studio that hosts an impressive audience. Two podiums are set up on stage, and a sign above the stage says “Buzz!”.)

Cameraman: And… we’re rolling! (We see Buzz (Buzz!) walk onstage as he is greeted with applause by the audience.)

Buzz: Hello, and welcome back to…

Buzz/Audience: Buzz!

Buzz: And ladies and gentlemen, do we have a show for you tonight! Tonight is Celebrity Buzz! (The audience cheers.) We have two rising stars tonight competing for big prizes! So, let’s meet our contestants! (Buzz walks over to the left podium as Mettaton (Undertale) rolls onstage behind the podium. He waves at the crowd.)

Mettaton: Hello, darlings! It’s Mettaton!

Buzz: The renowned celebrity of the… Underground, is it? Mettaton!

Mettaton: So happy to be here and see my adoring fans!

Audience Member: I love you, Mettaton!

Mettaton: I love me too, darling! (The audience laughs. Buzz walks over to the other podium as Johnny Cage walks onstage.)

Buzz: The one and only Johnny Cage, ladies and gentlemen!

Cage: Earthrealm’s savior has arrived! (Cage shoots finger guns at the audience as they cheer.)

Buzz: Let me just say, Mr. Cage, it is an honor to have such a big star on the show tonight.

Cage: Buzz, please, Mr. Cage is my father. Just call me Johnny. (Buzz returns to center stage and addresses the audience.)

Buzz: Now, without further ado, let’s begin! It’s time for…! (The lights in the studio suddenly turn off as we hear Van’s voice over a loudspeaker.)

Van: Oh, I don’t think so. (Suddenly, minions rush into the studio, causing screams from audience members. A couple minions scare away the camera operators and start controlling the cameras themselves. We cut back to Cage.)

Cage: D*mn. Can’t go one week without beating the sh*t out of demons. (Cage runs towards the edge of the stage and jumps off, preparing a punch. While in midair, he suddenly freezes as a blue aura surrounds him. The camera pans to see Genki using his telekinesis on Cage.)

Genki: Nuh uh uh!

Cage: What the f*ck is that thing? (Genki slams Cage onto the ground. We then see Van jump onstage as minions grab Buzz and Mettaton. Van is now wearing his mask.)

Van: Welcome, one and all, to Whacked 2.0! A brand new video game game show for the ages! (A large projector descends behind Van as Cage woozily gets up, Genki holds him in telekinesis again.) And I think we have our first contestant. Tell me, son, what’s your name? (Cage grimaces at Van.)

Cage: Were your mom and your aunt, like, the same person? (A frown crosses Van’s face.)

Genki: TV man says his name is Johnny Cage. (Van perks up.)

Van: Cage, huh? Any relation to Nicolas? (Van laughs at his own joke.) No, but seriously, folks. In here… (Van holds up the Game & Watch.) lies a gauntlet of challenges for our good friend Mr. Cage to complete since he seemed so eager to compete. Beating them all will reveal big prizes! Failing to complete them… well… let’s hope you do well. (Van holds up the remote control and points it at the Game & Watch.) Toodle-oo!

Cage: Wait what?! (Van presses a button on the remote as a portal opens leading into the Game & Watch. The portal sucks both Cage and Genki inside.) Ohhhhhhhh sh*t!

(We cut to a shop on the street with a line of televisions in the window, all of them showing the broadcast from the game show studio. The camera pans around to see B.J. watching the televisions.)

B.J.: Raiden! Zero! (Raiden and Zero join B.J. at the window.)

Zero: What’s the matter?

B.J.: We’ve got trouble. Hostage situation with what seem to be… demons.

Raiden: Where’s this being broadcast? (We see a small group of people burst out of a building across the street screaming. Massive posters of Buzz are seen on the building advertising his show. Raiden unsheathes his katana.) Time for Jack to let ‘er rip. (The heroes run towards the studio building.)

(We cut to Flat Zone inside of the Game & Watch, full of flat buildings and scenery. Mr. Game & Watch walks through the area in his frame-by-frame walking style. He then stands still and looks left and right, a beep following each head turn. We then hear Cage screaming as Mr. G&W opens his mouth and raises his arms as he’s startled. Cage falls face first in front of Mr. G&W as Mr. G&W flies back.)

Cage: Ugh… sh*t. (Cage slowly raises his head as Mr. G&W walks over to him and studies him.) What are you supposed to be? (Mr. G&W helps Cage to his feet as he looks around.) This isn’t like any game show I’ve seen before. (We hear Genki’s voice as Cage and Mr. G&W look above them where Genki is flying.)

Genki: Welcome to Professor Genki’s Super Ethical Reality Climax! (The logo appears onscreen before fading out.)

Cage: What kind of name is that? Doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue.

Mr. G&W: Beep! (We cut to Genki as he flies to the top of a pile of Flat Zone-styled girders that are constructed in the same style of 25M from Donkey Kong.)

Genki: Your first challenge is to get to the top! (He uses his telekinesis to hold up a group of Flat Zone barrels.) Good luck! (He starts rolling the barrels down the girders.)

Cage: Just gotta get to the top, huh? (He looks at Mr. G&W.) Ready for this, Flat Top? (Mr. G&W nods and beeps.) Just follow my lead. (They both run up the first girder as a barrel rolls down. A green aura surrounds Cage as he moves faster and jumps over the barrel. It rolls towards Mr. G&W, who pulls out a hammer to destroy the barrel.)

Genki: Genki loves murder! (Cage jumps up to the next girder and helps Mr. G&W up. Another barrel rolls towards them as Cage shoots a force ball at it to destroy it.)

Cage: Oh yeah! (Mr. G&W leads the charge as he and Cage jump over the next barrel. Mr. G&W jumps off the edge of the girder and summons two firemen (Game & Watch) holding a trampoline, which propels him two girders up. Cage uses the trampoline too and catches up. They both jump up to the next girder as Cage speeds up and kicks another barrel away.)

Genki: No no no! (They reach the last girder that Genki is on.)

Cage: Gotcha now, kitty cat!

Genki: Onto round 2! (Genki uses his telekinesis to throw them both off of the girders.)

Cage: Not again! (We return to the studio as we see what’s happening in Flat Zone projected on a projection screen behind Van.)

Van: Looks like our contestants have made it past the first round! Let’s turn up the heat, shall we?

(We cut to a different part of the studio as we see Raiden, Zero, and B.J. sneaking through the area, all holding weapons at the ready.)

Zero: Keep an eye out. We don’t know what we’re dealing with here. They reach a doorway to a hallway as they hide behind its corner. B.J. jumps out from the corner holding his pistol out.)

B.J.: All clear. (Our heroes continue sneaking down the hall as they pass a closed door. Muffled screams are heard inside.) Did you hear that?

Raiden: Yeah… (Raiden puts his hand on the doorknob. He quickly opens the door and readies his katana. The camera cuts to see Gex inside the room, which is a supply closet. Gex is tied up and gagged and screams louder as he sees Raiden.) What the hell? (B.J. takes out a knife and cuts Gex loose. Gex takes the gag off.)

Gex: About time someone got me out of there. (He turns to Raiden.) Gotta say, wasn’t expecting help from Schwarzenegger. (Gex does an Arnold Schwarzenegger impression.) Get to the choppa! Augh!

Zero: Who are you supposed to be?

Gex: What? You don’t recognize ol’ Gexy? Gex the grand? Double 0 Gex? Gexzilla? (They all stare blankly at him.) Guess not. Anyways, some washed-up looney named Van Tastic took my remote for his new game show. Who knows what chaos he’s caused with it.

B.J.: Hostage situation.

Zero: And some sort of bizarre… virtual reality experiment.

Gex: Sounds bad. (Gex walks out of the room.) Lucky for you guys, I’m skilled in Tail Fu! (He strikes a karate pose.) Hi-yah! (He goes back to normal.) So let’s turn this Van Tastic into Van tragic. (Gex runs off.)

Raiden: Come on. (The other three heroes run after Gex.)

(We cut back to Cage and Mr. G&W as they walk through Flat Zone.)

Cage: I swear to God, I’m losing it. Can’t someone, anyone, explain to me what the hell is going on?

Mr. G&W: Beep!

Cage: I appreciate the thought, but I think there’s a language barrier between us. (Suddenly, Flat Zone-styled smoke wafts into frame.) Does it smell like smoke to you? (They look over to see a Flat Zone building on fire with Genki on top of it. Citizens (Game & Watch) wave out the windows, terrified. Mr. G&W raises his hands to his head in fear before sprinting over, with Cage right behind. As they reach the building, Genki speaks to them.)

Genki: Let’s play Save the Innocents! And you better hurry, fire travels fast! (Mr. G&W pulls out a trampoline and holds onto one side. Cage quickly grabs the other side.)

Cage: Don’t worry, Rascal Flatts. I’ve got your back. (Citizens begin jumping out of the building as Cage and Mr. G&W run around catching them with the trampoline. We see them run around and catch three with relative ease. We then cut to Genki pulling out an RPG.)

Genki: Genki made it too easy. Time for super murder cat! (Genki fires the RPG. Cage looks up and sees it coming towards him and Mr. G&W.)

Cage: Look out! (Cage uses his enhanced speed to tackle Mr. G&W out of the way as the missile explodes nearby on the ground. We see multiple citizens jump out of the building while Cage and Mr. G&W are away from the trampoline.)

Mr. G&W: Beep! (He quickly pulls out a manhole and uses it to flip Cage into the air. He catches the remaining citizens and lands safely on the ground.)

Cage: Gotcha! (The citizens all walk away as Mr. G&W walks up to Cage and jumps for joy.)

(We cut back to the studio as Van Tastic malds under his mask while looking at the screen.)

Van: What?! How did they… grrrrr… (Van slams his fist onto a podium next to him before quickly straightening up.) Well, folks, it seems like our contestant has beaten round 2, but one more challenge awaits him. Don’t touch that dial! You won’t wanna miss- (He’s interrupted as Gex, Raiden, Zero, and B.J. burst into the studio all ready to fight.)

Gex: It’s tail time! (A group of four minions run up to our heroes to try and stop them, but Raiden and Zero both slash away two each.)

Zero: These guys aren’t much of a threat. (We cut back to Van.)

Van: Uh… huh… (Gex jumps onstage to confront him.)

Gex: Well, Vanny, I’ll be taking my remote now if you’d be so kind.

Van: Your… your remote? (He pauses before pointing it at the Game & Watch.) Of course! The remote! (He presses a button as the portal opens again. We cut back to Flat Zone as Genki confronts Cage and Mr. G&W.)

Genki: Time for round 3! (The portal opens above them.) Huh? (Cage, Mr. G&W, and Genki are all pulled into the portal.)

Cage: Not agaaaiiin! (All three of them are shot out onto the studio stage. Our other heroes join Cage and Mr. G&W. We cut to Genki getting up and standing beside Van.)

Van: Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you the final round of our little show. (Suddenly, the Octopus (Game & Watch) emerges from the portal, towering above our heroes. The portal disappears.) You’ve all been a lovely audience. (The audience and minions scream and run out of the room. Buzz and Mettaton follow, leaving only our six heroes.)

Gex: This is like seafood night at Tom Hanks’ house.

Cage: (Striking a pose.) Let’s get dirty! (Cage and Raiden sprint towards Genki. Raiden leaps at Genki, but Genki holds him in place. Cage runs up and punches Genki in the head, knocking him away.)

Genki: Don’t hurt my head! (We cut to Zero running around the Octopus as it suddenly reaches out and grabs him with one of its tentacles.)

Zero: Gah! (We cut to B.J. shooting at it, which makes it angry.)

B.J.: Are my bullets doing a d*mn thing? (The Octopus hits B.J. back with a tentacle as he flies back into the audience seating.) Augh! (We cut back to Zero who frees his arm and slices the Octopus’ tentacle off with his Z-saber. Zero lands on the ground. We cut to Gex as he slaps Van away with his tail.)

Gex: Oh yeah, it’s tail time! (Van takes off his mask and throws it at Gex, which knocks him off of the stage.) Oof!

Van: Better turn tail and run, gecko! (Mr. G&W runs up and hits Van on the head with a frying pan.) Ouch! Why you-! (Gex jumps back into action and kicks Van away. We cut back to Cage as he throws a plasmic bolt at Genki which hits him.)

Genki: You will know pain! (Genki quickly flies at Cage and punches him away. Raiden then jumps in and slashes at Genki.) You make Genki angry! (Genki uses his telekinesis to slam Raiden against the ceiling. Cage then speeds back in with his enhanced movement and flipkicks Genki onto his back.)

Cage: You just got caged!

Genki: Ugh… (The camera pans up to see Raiden hanging onto the ceiling. He jumps down and slices his katana directly into Genki’s heart.)

Raiden: I will show no mercy. (Blood pools out from Genki as he dies. We cut back to Gex as Van swings a boom mic into him.)

Gex: This must be what it’s like to work on a Michael Bay flick. (Van approaches Gex menacingly with the boom mic. Suddenly, Mr. G&W runs in and uses his hammer on Van while holding up the number 9. A loud hit noise is heard as Van is shot through the wall of the building into the sky.)

Van: I’ll be back! I always come baaaaaaaaack! (A glint is seen in the sky as he disappears. We cut back to see Mr. G&W breathe a visual sigh of relief. We then cut to B.J. shooting at the Octopus as Zero slashes another one of its tentacles off. The Octopus then grabs Zero and slams him against the ground.)

Zero: This thing sure is resilient… (B.J. continues to shoot as he watches the Octopus grow its tentacles back.)

B.J.: What the f*ck is this thing made out of? (We cut back to Gex on the ground as he sees his remote controller lying where Van was.)

Gex: Ooh! What do we have here? (Gex grabs the remote control and points it at the Game & Watch underneath the Octopus.) Time for a little deus Gex machina. (He presses a button as the portal returns. Beads of sweat appear on the Octopus’ face as it sinks back into the Game & Watch. When it finally sinks into it, the Game & Watch cracks and breaks into two.) And voila! (Our heroes approach the broken Game & Watch as Mr. G&W hangs his head low. Cage takes a knee to comfort him.)

Cage: Don’t worry, flat friend. We’ll get you a way back in there. (Mr. G&W looks at Cage and hugs him.)

Zero: We all still need to find a way back home.

Gex: Well, I hope you don’t mind a few extras coming along.

Raiden: Excuse me?

Gex: (Referring to Cage.) Van Damme and his little friend here need to get a way back into that little device and I’m an ultra powerful secret agent. You’re gonna need me. (He turns to everyone.) Whaddya say, gang? Deal or no deal? (Everyone is silent for a moment. B.J. turns to Raiden and nods.)

Raiden: Fine, just don’t get in the way.

Cage: (To Raiden.) Lead the way, Terminator.

Gex: That’s what I said!

Zero: (Annoyed.) This is gonna be a long trip back home. (Our heroes all begin to leave the room as the camera pans towards the broken Game & Watch. Mr. G&W then walks back and scoops up the broken pieces as the screen changes to TV static. It then slowly fades to black.)

End of Episode

Chapter 36: Gravity Rush

(The episode begins looking at a circus in a small town. We cut to the circus to see people milling about. MC Ballyhoo (Super Mario) then flies in wearing Big Top (Super Mario) as he exclaims to all the guests.)

MC Ballyhoo: Hahaha! Welcome! (The camera pans around as we see Pietro (Animal Crossing) getting a rabbit-shaped balloon from Adam MacIntyre (Dead Rising). The camera continues through the carnival as we see Razputin Aquato tying up a bag of garbage and using his telekinesis to lift it.)

Raz: Great, I finally become a Psychonaut and the sky goes dark. Now I’m… (He sighs.) back at the circus. And they have me taking out the garbage! (He looks around at all the people.) At least this reminds me of home. (MC Ballyhoo flies over to Raz.)

Big Top: Hello!

Raz: Gah! (The garbage bag falls onto the ground.) Don’t sneak up on me like that.

MC Ballyhoo: Hey, Raz! Once you’re done over here, we need you over at the freak show tent to pick up some trash. Got that?

Raz: (He sighs.) Sure thing.

MC Ballyhoo: Thanks, superstar!

Big Top: Woop! Woop! (MC Ballyhoo flies away. Raz uses his telekinesis to pick the garbage bag up again.)

Raz: Welp, back to work it is.

(We cut to a large tent in the circus with a sign above it that says “Freak Show”. We cut inside to see a Machamp (Pokemon) behind a cage curling a dumbbell in each hand. The camera pans more to see Mumbo (Banjo-Kazooie) behind a different cage.)

Mumbo: Eekum bokum! Mumbo not freak! (We cut to the other side of the tent as we see the Space Core (Portal) behind a cage.)

Space Core: What’s your favorite thing about space? Mine is space. (The camera finally pans to the final cage as we see Kat sitting in the corner, noticeably sad. We cut to the inside of the cage as Dusty (Gravity Rush) walks up next to her. Kat smiles weakly.)

Kat: Hi, Dusty. (She strokes his fur. She then looks up and sees a group of onlookers. Kat sighs.) Looks like they want a show. (Kat stands up and picks up Dusty. She then turns red and begins to float. She flips upside down as the onlookers applaud. She flips back and returns to normal.) Well… at least they like us, huh Dusty? (A voice is suddenly heard.)

???: Pretty impressive. (The camera pans to see Raz looking at Kat’s cage, discarded garbage in his hands.) How’d you do that? (Kat walks up to her cage bars and looks at Raz.)

Kat: Oh… I’m a shifter. (She holds Dusty up to the bars.) Dusty here lets me control gravity.

Raz: (Smiling.) Wow! That’s incredible. (Raz puts his hand through the bars.) My name is Razputin, but everybody calls me Raz. (Kat puts Dusty down and shakes Raz’s hand.)

Kat: Everyone calls me Kat. (Her smile fades slightly. They stop shaking hands.) Thanks for coming to see me. It gets a little lonely here. (Raz looks sad before getting a determined look across his face.)

Raz: Stand back.

Kat: (Confused.) Excuse me?

Raz: Just back up a bit. (Kat complies.) Now, watch this! (Raz uses his pyrokinesis on the cage door’s lock, causing it to burst into flames. The fire eventually dissipates and the door swings open.)

Kat: You… you let me go?

Raz: Yeah! (He grabs Kat’s hand and begins to lead her out.) Now let’s go have some real fun! (Raz leads Kat out of the tent as they pass a large box that says “Do Not Open”.)

(We cut to the small town next to the circus as we see Link, Ike, and Mii strolling through the area. A few people are also walking around the area, but not as many as at the circus.)

Ike: (To Link.) Perhaps this Master Mind that you speak of is working with Nightmare. We must remain vigilant as we continue to track him.

Link: Who knows what other dangers may be lurking around here. I’ve seen too much destruction as it is. (A voice is heard.)

???: Danger, you say? (Our heroes look around.)

Mii: Who said that? (The camera pans to see Solaire (Souls) standing next to an antiques shop. He approaches our heroes.)

Solaire: My apologies, I do not mean to startle you. I am Solaire of Astoria, an adherent to the Lord of Sunlight.

Ike: Greetings, Solaire. What can we do for you?

Solaire: Well, the lot of you seem like the adventuring types. Am I incorrect in my assumption?

Link: Not at all.

Mii: We’re searching for a swordsman. He’s wreaking havoc everywhere he goes.

Solaire: Ah, then it seems we have a common goal. I too have been following such a swordsman. He appears to be demonic, but with the signs of the heavens above. I fear he may be here, and I humbly ask your assistance in finding him. (Link looks at Ike.)

Ike: We shall assist. (Ike looks at Link.) Perhaps this will reveal some answers to us.

Solaire: Haha! Thank you very much. (He gestures towards the circus.) The townsfolk are having some sort of celebration over there. Perhaps you should check there. (He begins walking the opposite way.) I will continue searching for leads in town. (Solaire makes a gesture with both hands towards the sun.) And may the Lord of Sunlight guide you. (He leaves.)

Mii: Another swordsman? How many of these guys are around here?

Ike: Perhaps this swordsman is a member of the Knights of the Demon that Nightmare is a part of.

Link: Then we cannot waste anymore time. Come on! (The three of them make their way towards the circus.)

(We cut back to the circus as Raz and Kat are seen playing a game where they throw balls at stacks of cups. Carnival Bob (Carnival Games) is seen manning the station. Raz and Kat laugh together.)

Raz: Almost got it…

Kat: I’m gonna win! (Kat throws her ball and completely knocks her stack of cups over. She celebrates as Carnival Bob hands her a plush Snorlax doll.) Aw, it’s so cute.

Raz: You’re pretty good at this! (We cut to another part of the circus as we see a mysterious figure walking through. The camera pans around to see that the figure is Sephiroth. He looks around, disgusted by what he’s seeing.)

Sephiroth: Truly pathetic… (A carny runs over to Sephiroth to greet him.)

Carny: Hey there, pal! The ren faire actually isn’t happening this week. (He laughs, then notices Sephiroth’s unchanging mood.) Uh…yeah. Seriously though, you need to leave that big sword behind. Can’t risk any accidents happening. (Sephiroth takes out his Masamune.)

Sephiroth: This isn’t some “big sword”. This is the Masamune.

Carny: Uh… okay… (Sephiroth suddenly plunges his sword into the carny. Blood begins to trickle out as bystanders gasp in shock. Raz and Kat turn towards the carnage. Kat puts her hands to her mouth in shock.)

Raz: What’s going on? (We cut back to Sephiroth as he removes the Masamune. The carny falls to the ground, dead.)

Sephiroth: Let this be a lesson to you all! I have been chosen as the God of your world! Let these actions mark the beginning of humanity’s downfall. (Sephiroth casts Flare at a nearby circus tent, causing it to set fire. Everyone in the area runs around screaming. We cut to Adam MacIntyre juggling large knives as he hears the screams. He begins to gasp and step backwards.)

Adam: The… the screams… the children… (He starts swinging his knife wildly at anyone nearby.) I won’t let you take them! (We cut back to Sephiroth as we hear Ike’s voice.)

Ike: Hey! (The camera pans to see Link, Ike, and Mii with their swords readied.) This ends now.

Sephiroth: This planet is my birthright. If you stand against me, you will be slaughtered like animals.

Link: (Pointing his sword at Sephiroth.) You give us no choice. (The camera pans behind Link to see the crate from before that says “Do Not Open”.)

Sephiroth: Very well. (Sephiroth casts Flare towards Link. Link dives out of the way, holding his shield in front of him. The Flare hits the crate and destroys it. We hear a voice.)

???: Freedom at last! (Our heroes look back at the crate to see Mr. Patch (Banjo-Kazooie). He inflates until he’s towering above the circus. He looks down at everyone below.) You stuffed me in that crate like yesterday’s garbage! Now you’ll pay! (Mr. Patch begins stomping around the area.)

Mii: (To Link and Ike.) I’ll take care of that… thing. You guys handle the swordsman. (Mii runs off. We see Link, Ike, and Sephiroth ready their blades.)

Sephiroth: Death awaits you. Soon your energy will join with the planet’s. (Sephiroth lunges forward and strikes against both Link’s and Ike’s swords. Sephiroth then slashes at Link who blocks with his shield. Ike runs up behind Sephiroth, but Sephiroth turns to Ike and slashes across his chest. Sephiroth then casts Shadow Flares, creating three orbs of darkness around Link.)

Link: Huh? (The orbs hit him one at a time as Link is knocked backwards. We cut to Raz and Kat as they watch the destruction around them.)

Kat: Raz, we need to do something! (They watch as Mr. Patch stomps past them.)

Raz: You’re right. (Adam then runs past holding two cleavers.) I’ll handle the clown, you get the dinosaur, got it? (Kat nods. She then turns red and begins floating as Raz puts his goggles over his eyes.) Then let’s get to work. (They go off in separate directions. We cut to the Mii as he slashes at Mr. Patch’s foot with his sword, not doing anything.)

Mii: For a balloon, this guy is resilient. (Kat suddenly flies past him.) Woah! (He runs after her.) Hey! Lady! Back here! (We cut to Kat lifting up tables and chairs with her gravity abilities and throwing them at Mr. Patch to no avail.)

Mr. Patch: You better stop that right now! I’m bursting with rage! (Mr. Patch shoots a beachball out of his mouth at Kat, which hits her onto the ground. The Mii runs up to her.)

Mii: Hey, lady, think you could help me out? (He pulls out a bow and arrow.)

Kat: Yeah! Hope your aim is good, and that you didn’t have a big lunch.

Mii: A big lunch? Whaddya me- (Kat lifts the two of them into the air as the Mii begins screaming. They begin flying and spinning through the air around Mr. Patch.)

(We cut back to Sephiroth and Ike as their swords clash. The fire spreads on the tent behind them. Sephiroth’s blows slowly push Ike back. Sephiroth unleashes a flurry of blows that knocks Ike into a popcorn stand behind him. We see blood begin to trickle from cuts on Ike’s arms.)

Sephiroth: Stop this foolish revolt. It will only end in your demise. (We see Link run up to Sephiroth and slash at him. However, Sephiroth blocks the blow. He pushes Link back with his sword before cutting him across the chest. He then hits him again, knocking him back onto the ground.) A miserable display of swordsmanship.

(We cut to Adam as he runs around the circus. He grabs a running passerby and plunges his cleaver into his chest.)

Adam: I won’t let you take them! (He begins running again until he’s hit by a sack of garbage and tumbles onto the ground. He looks up to see Raz.)

Raz: Uh… hey there, Adam. It’s Raz. We kinda work together. Remember? (Adam breathes heavily while staring at Raz.)

Adam: I still hear the screams, and that’s not very fun, is it? (Adam takes out a bottle and swigs its contents before lighting a match.)

Raz: Uh… Adam? (Adam spits out the liquid at the match and towards Raz as it catches fire.) Woah! (Raz jumps out of the way.) Alright then… we’ll do this the hard way. (Raz takes out a psycho-portal and tosses it at Adam’s head. The portal opens as a red aura surrounds Raz and he’s sucked inside.)

(We cut back to Kat and the Mii as they soar around Mr. Patch. The Mii shoots arrows, but they don’t do anything.)

Mii: What is this guy made of?

Mr. Patch: Hey! Stop that! You might hit my patches if you’re not careful.

Kat: Patches? (Kat looks at the patches all over Mr. Patch’s body. To the Mii.) Aim for those!

Mii: (He salutes.) Yes, ma’am! (We see an arrow hit one of the patches as Mr. Patch yells in pain and gets a little smaller.)

Mr. Patch: Ow! That smarts! (We see the Mii hit more patches as Mr. Patch gets smaller and smaller. The Mii then nocks an enchanted arrow.)

Mii: Hearken to me, o light! (He shoots the enchanted arrow as it plunges into one of Mr. Patch’s patches. Mr. Patch suddenly starts blowing air and flying around the circus.)

Mr. Patch: Nooooooo! I just got aired up! (He soars across the skyline, out of sight. Kat and the Mii land.)

Kat: That’s one problem solved.

(We cut back to Raz, who is now in Adam’s mind. The area is dark around him.)

Raz: Okay, this doesn’t look too promising. (Suddenly, lights engulf the area.) Ah! (We see a space rollercoaster surrounding Raz. A cart flies wildly around and around it. Inside the cart are black blobs that scream with children’s voices. Raz plugs his ears.) What is this? (We hear Adam’s voice.)

Adam: I couldn’t help them. (Raz turns around to see a much calmer Adam watching the rollercoaster.) My audience… killed in front of my eyes. It changes a man.

Raz: But you don’t have to let that happen again. You can be their hero.

Adam: It’s too late for me, kid. I thought coming here was a do-over for me, but now… (Raz puts a hand on Adam’s shoulder.)

Raz: You don’t have to do this alone. C’mon, (Raz strikes a heroic pose.) let’s go save some people! (Raz holds out his hand. Adam stares at Raz for a few seconds before taking his hand into his. The screen goes white as we go back to the real world. Raz and Adam look around at the screaming people.) Everyone! Follow the clown!

Adam: This way! (Adam helps an adult and a few children from the growing fire as he ushers them away from the circus.)

(We cut back to Sephiroth as he points his sword at Ike, who is bloodied and bruised on the ground.)

Sephiroth: You fought hard. Pity. (Sephiroth prepares to strike before he is suddenly hoisted into the air. Kat flies in as they both fall upwards.)

Kat: This is madness!

Sephiroth: I won’t stop until humanity is no more! (Sephiroth reveals his one wing as he slashes at Kat. Blood gushes from her wound as they both begin to fall back to the ground. We cut to the ground as Raz notices Kat falling.)

Raz: Kat! (He begins running to where she’ll drop. We cut to Raz running up to the Mii as he uses his telekinesis to catch Kat right before she hits the ground.) I gotcha! (Sephiroth falls on his feet behind the Mii and Raz. Sephiroth slashes at Raz, sending him flying as Kat drops gently to the ground.) Ah! (The Mii takes out boxing gloves and swings at Sephiroth.)

Sephiroth: Using your fists? How bold. (Sephiroth casts Flare as the Mii is flung backwards onto the ground. We see all five heroes bloodied on the ground in front of Sephiroth. Fire dances around them as Sephiroth approaches Link. He raises his sword above Link.)

Link: Why? Why are the Knights of the Demon doing this? (Sephiroth looks at Link confused.)

Sephiroth: I haven’t the slightest idea what that means. (Sephiroth plunges his sword forward as we see Link close his eyes. Everything is silent. Link slowly opens his eyes to see Solaire standing in front of him protectively, Sephiroth’s sword in his stomach.)

Solaire: May the light… guide you all… (We see Kat slowly stand as she uses her powers on all five heroes. They take flight as they soar far from the circus.)

(We cut to our heroes sitting in an alley, all of them bloodied.)

Ike: He wasn’t working with Nightmare at all. He…

Kat: He just wanted the world to burn. (Kat pets Dusty.)

Raz: We can’t let him do that. We have to do something.

Link: Master Mind… the Knights of the Demon… and now him…

Mii: Everybody wants to rule the world, and if they can’t, they’ll break it instead. (Ike turns to Kat.)

Ike: Thank you for rescuing us.

Kat: I had to do something. We can’t let him win. We have to find him again, put an end to this.

Raz: He’ll kill us.

Kat: I can’t stand aside and let him destroy humanity.

Link: She’s right. (Link stands up.) Last time, we were separated. We need to fight him as one unit. If we don’t… (Link trails off as Ike gets up.)

Ike: It’s up to us now. Who’s with us? (Kat gets up and picks up Dusty. She stands next to Link and Ike. The Mii then gets up and joins them. Finally, Raz stands up.)

Raz: Lead the way. (Ike smiles as the scene fades out.)

(We cut to Sephiroth watching the fires of the circus. His wing is no longer visible. We suddenly hear a voice.)

???: You must be Sephiroth. (Sephiroth turns around to see Master Mind.)

Sephiroth: Another challenger?

Master Mind: Not a challenger. Think of me more as an investor. Someone who wants to make your dreams come true. (Master Mind pulls out Majora’s Mask.) How about you and I have a chat?

End of Episode

Chapter 37: King of Fighters

(The episode begins in the city at night. We see a dingy building being lit by street lamps. The sound of cheering can be heard from inside. We cut to inside the building as we see a large crowd surrounding a makeshift boxing ring. The crowd is rowdy, pushing each other around and passing money around. We cut to the front of the crowd as we see Kao the kangaroo jumping and cheering.)

Kao: Wahoo! Yeah! (We hear an announcer on the loudspeaker.)

Announcer: Here comes a new challenger! In this corner, we have the Hot-blooded Destroyer himself, Paul Phoenix! (Paul Phoenix (Tekken) jumps into the ring and takes a fighting stance. The crowd both cheers and boos over him.) And in the other corner… (A small figure suddenly jumps into the ring wearing pink sweatpants and a pink sweatshirt.) Fighting for his position in the finals, we have the Bruiser of the Bronx… (The figure removes his sweatpants and sweatshirt to reveal that he’s Little Mac.) Little Mac! (Doc Louis (Punch-Out!!) walks in and stands by the side of the ring.)

Doc: Let him have it, Mac!

Announcer: 3… (The camera cuts to Paul.) 2… (The camera cuts to Mac.) 1… (The camera cuts to both of them.) Go! (Paul and Mac sprint at each other. Paul throws a right punch at him, but Mac ducks out of the way. Mac then does a series of five uppercuts as Paul stumbles back. Paul retaliates with an uppercut that sends Mac in the air, he then follows up by kicking Mac into the ropes. Mac gets up as Doc rushes over.)

Doc: Cut that phoenix’s wings, Mac! Maybe his hair too. Look at that cut. (Mac runs back over and ducks under another uppercut. He then punches him rapidly in the chest. Paul attempts to hammer his arm down onto Mac, but Mac dodges out of the way and delivers a star punch straight to Paul’s face. Paul falls to the ground, unconscious.)

Announcer: TKO! (The crowd cheers as Doc runs into the ring and hoists Mac into the air.)

Doc: You did it, Mac! You’re going to the finals!

Mac: Hahaha! Yeah! (We cut back to Kao as he cheers wildly for Mac.)

Kao: Yay! Yahoo! (We cut again to a shadowy part of the building as two unknown figures stand around a throne with a third figure sitting in it, watching the fight. A hammer rests at his side.)

(We cut forward in time as we see Mac and Doc walking through a hallway in the same building.)

Doc: You did good, Mac. Made it to the finals. And some of those other competitors were spooky too. (They walk past an exercise room with King Hippo (Punch-Out!!) inside. He’s eating from a pile of fruit.)

Mac: Doc, are we sure this “Mortal Kombat” tournament is legal? I don’t think this is WBF certified. (They pass by another exercise room where Tina Armstrong (Dead or Alive) is beating a punching bag.)

Doc: It does seem a little fishy, Mac, but maybe the prize can help us get back home. (They pass by another exercise room where Kyle Travers (Final Fight) is curling dumbbells. Mac and Doc then enter an exercise room. Mac starts jumping rope.) We got a bit of time to prepare for the final challenge. We better use all the time we’ve got if you’re gonna win.

Mac: Understood, Doc!

(We cut to another room of the building. We see Cyrax (Mortal Kombat) and Baraka (Mortal Kombat) talking to each other. Someone off-screen then starts speaking to them.)

???: Are preparations almost complete, Cyrax?

Cyrax: I’ve been scanning each match diligently. Data for this “Bruiser of the Bronx” is nearly completely uploaded to our new device. (The camera pans to a large machine. The machine consists of a large capsule with a computer screen attached to the side. We then cut to the third figure, revealing him to be Shao Kahn. His hammer materializes in his hand.)

Shao Kahn: This machine was built by one calling himself Cortex and an ape. Let us hope that Master Mind’s trusted scientists are worthy of Kahn.

Baraka: Soon, heads will roll.

Shao Kahn: In time, Baraka. But first, Cyrax, Master Mind has given you a new mission. (Cyrax approaches Shao Kahn.)

Cyrax: What does he ask of me? (Shao Kahn hands Cyrax a picture of Ryu.)

Shao Kahn: Ryu, a warrior previously aligned with Master Mind. He asks that you find him and present him with as much force as necessary.)

Cyrax: Understood. (Cyrax exits.)

Shao Kahn: (To Baraka.) Prepare the Tarkatans. (Baraka nods and exits.)

(We cut to outside as we see a telephone pole with flyers stapled to it. Among the flyers is one for the Mortal Kombat tournament. A figure approaches the telephone pole and takes the flyer off, studying it.)

???: Huh? (We cut again to Kao outside the building excitedly throwing punches.)

Kao: Bonza! Little Mac made that guy go pear-shaped. (He throws two more punches and an uppercut.) I hope one day I’m as good a boxer as he is. (The sound of trash cans rustling is suddenly heard.) Huh? (Kao looks over to the alleyway between buildings and sees a shadow run into it.) What was that? (Kao runs over to inspect.) Hello? Is someone there? (From the shadows of the alley, three Tarkatans (Mortal Kombat) come out and look down at Kao.)

Tarkatan #1: Heheheh! (They slowly approach Kao.)

Kao: M-m-m-monsters! Go away! (Kao attempts to run, but the Tarkatan grabs his tail and holds him up to his face.) I… I don’t wanna be your snack! (The Tarkatan opens his mouth. The screen then goes black as we hear the sound of a punch and the clattering of trash cans.) The screen comes back as we see the Tarkatan knocked out between two trash cans. We cut to Kao as he looks up to see his savior, Terry Bogard. Terry readjusts his hat as he takes a fighting pose.)

Terry: Hey, come on, come on! (One of the Tarkatans runs at Terry. Terry punches him twice in the face and then performs a Burning Fist.) Burning! (The Tarkatan flies across the alley and lands on his chest, knocked out.)

Tarkatan #3: Grah! (The Tarkatan punches Terry back a bit. Kao then jumps in and uppercuts the Tarkatan back.)

Kao: Buzz off! (Terry then finishes the job by kicking the Tarkatan into the wall, knocking him out. Kao and Terry look around, searching for more.) Looks like that’s the last of them for now.

Terry: Not much of a fight despite their ugly faces. (He turns to Kao.) Are you okay?

Kao: Yeah. Thanks, mister. (He holds out his gloved hand for a shake.) Name’s Kao. (Terry shakes.)

Terry: Terry Bogard. (They stop shaking as Terry continues down the alley. He sees a door partially opened.) Looks like this might’ve been where they were going.

Kao: But that’s inside the tournament building.

Terry: That Mortal Kombat tournament I’ve seen fliers for? (Kao nods.) Looks like there may be more to this tourney than I thought. (Kao walks over to the door and whispers.)

Kao: Then let’s take a looksie. (Terry nods as they sneak inside.)

(We cut to a different part of the city as we see Ryu, Jago, and Sukapon walking through the streets. Other pedestrians walk through the city around them.)

Ryu: Master Mind could be anywhere, but he also makes his presence known. Always be ready for combat. (We cut to behind our heroes as Cyrax steps out of the shadows. We then cut to Sukapon as he turns around. A look of shock crosses his face as he suddenly jumps away.) Huh? (Ryu and Jago are suddenly ensnared by an energy net.)

Jago: What is this? (Cyrax approaches them.)

Cyrax: It’s too easy. Master Mind’s order to kill is a waste on you. (Cyrax raises his arm to punch Ryu as Sukapon somersaults in and knocks Cyrax away.) Agh! (Sukapon quickly releases Ryu and Jago as Cyrax faces them again.)

Ryu: Master Mind will have to send a lot more men to kill me.

Cyrax: I assure you, I am no ordinary man. (Cyrax uses his jet boosters to propel himself forward. He punches Ryu in the chest as he flies into the wall of a nearby building. Surrounding pedestrians run away in terror. Jago slashes Cyrax twice with his sword. He goes for a third, but Cyrax catches the sword with his hand and releases a detonator from his chest. It explodes and sends Jago flying into the street. Cars swerve to avoid him.)

Jago: This warrior… he has traded humanity for power. (Cyrax walks into the street as Sukapon somersaults at him again. Cyrax grabs him by the head and slams him onto the ground.)

Cyrax: What sort of machine are you? (He raises his foot to stomp on Sukapon. We then hear Ryu.)

Ryu: Hadoken! (A hadoken flies into Cyrax, pushing him back as Ryu jumps in and kicks Cyrax back further. Cyrax throws another punch, but Ryu blocks it.) Shoryuken! (Ryu performs a shoryuken which sends Cyrax into the air. Cyrax then activates his jet boosters again and releases another detonator.)

Cyrax: I’m not done with you!

Jago: Look out! (Jago grabs Sukapon and Ryu and tries to pull them away. The detonator goes off and blows them forward. Cyrax lands and approaches them.)

Cyrax: You fight with a warrior of Shao Kahn. Surrender your lives now!

(We cut back to Kao and Terry as they sneak through a hallway in the tournament building. They stop at a doorway as Kao peeks inside. We see Shao Kahn and Baraka in the same room from before with the machine. A small group of Tarkatans stand in front of Shao Kahn.)

Shao Kahn: The final match of the tournament awaits. (Shao Kahn presses a button on the machine’s computer screen as it begins to whir. A few seconds pass before a wireframe version of Little Mac emerges from the machine’s capsule. More continue to file out.) Let’s begin. (Shao Kahn, Baraka, and the army of Tarkatans and Wireframe Macs exit the room. Kao and Terry run in and examine the machine.)

Kao: They’re cloning Little Mac!

Terry: Whoever that was has an army of monsters and clones. But why? (A fearful look goes over Kao’s face.)

Kao: They’re gonna fight the tournament contenders with the strongest fighter! They’re gonna take out all the fighters so no one can stand in their way. (Another Wireframe Mac exits the machine as Kao and Terry gasp.)

Terry: Ha! (Terry punches the Wireframe Mac into the wall as it flickers a bit. It then vanishes.) They don’t seem too strong.

Kao: We gotta destroy the machine! (Kao starts punching the computer screen rapidly. We cut to Baraka as he hears the commotion.)

Baraka: Huh? (He turns back to investigate. We cut back to Kao and Terry as Kao fully destroys the computer part of the machine.)

Kao: That should take care of that.

Baraka: Intruders! (Kao and Terry turn around to see Baraka, who has unsheathed his arm blades.) You will pay for that! (Baraka charges forward and attempts to stab Terry. Terry dodges and punches Baraka in the face.) Agh! (Baraka slashes Terry across the chest, knocking him down.)

Kao: Leave him alone! (Kao punches Baraka three times in the leg, but Baraka kicks him away.)

(We cut to the ring as Little Mac stands to one side with Doc behind him.)

Doc: No turning back now, Mac. Show them how it’s done.

Announcer: Here comes a new challenger! Fighting for the position of champion, we have Little Mac. (The crowd cheers.) And going against him… (Shao Kahn jumps onto the stage with his hammer.)

Shao Kahn: Prepare to feel the wrath of Shao Kahn, creator of the tournament! (The crowd begins screaming as Tarkatans and Wireframe Macs flood the area. They begin punching members of the crowd as the crowd tries to escape, but the door won’t budge.) There is no escape! Only death! (Shao Kahn jumps at Little Mac and slams his face with his hammer. Mac hits the ropes.)

Doc: Mac! (He jumps into the ring and hoists Mac up.)

Shao Kahn: Where’s that fighting spirit, Bruiser of the Bronx?

(We cut back to the fight against Cyrax as he delivers a punch into Jago’s chest. Jago retaliates with a kick. Jago goes for a punch, but Cyrax blocks. He then grabs Jago’s arm and throws him onto the ground. Ryu then jumps over and slams Cyrax onto the ground.)

Ryu: What kind of warrior trades away his humanity? (Cyrax grabs Ryu’s neck.)

Cyrax: The warrior who is willing to push limits. (He activates his jet boosters and takes flight while choking Ryu. Jago and Sukapon give chase. Jago then turns to Sukapon.)

Jago: I have an idea, but you must trust me. (Sukapon nods. Jago then grabs him and throws him at Cyrax. We see him land on Cyrax’s back as he grabs his head, causing him to swerve wildly.)

Cyrax: Get off of me! (Cyrax drops Ryu as he tries to grab Sukapon. Ryu lands next to Jago, who helps him up.)

Ryu: Come on! We can’t let him get away. (We see Cyrax and Sukapon fly towards the tournament building as they break through the wall. We cut to Little Mac, Doc, and Shao Kahn looking up as they slam into the ring.)

Shao Kahn: Cyrax? (Sukapon jumps off of Cyrax’s back as Cyrax woozily gets up, sparking.)

Cyrax: You will… pay for that! (He attempts to release another detonator, but it gets stuck in his chest cavity.) Huh? No! No! (The detonator explodes, destroying Cyrax. Shao Kahn approaches Sukapon threateningly.)

Shao Kahn: You will pay for that! (Mac then jumps between them and throws a strong punch into Shao Kahn’s chest, knocking him back. We cut to Ryu and Jago as they reach the door to the tournament building. Ryu tries to open the door, but it’s locked.)

Ryu: It’s locked. (Jago takes out his sword.)

Jago: Stand aside. (Jago slashes the doors open as the crowd stampedes out. A Tarkatan runs out and punches Jago. Jago slashes him in half. A Wireframe Mac punches Ryu in the chest, but Ryu shoots a hadoken into it, destroying it.)

Ryu: More trouble inside. (Jago nods as they run into the building.)

(We cut to the fight against Baraka as he chases Kao through the building.)

Baraka: Get back here! (Baraka dives at Kao, sticking his blades into the ground. He unsticks one blade as Terry jumps up behind him.)

Terry: Power Dunk! (Terry performs a power dunk, but Baraka rolls out of the way. Terry and Baraka get up as Baraka slashes at Terry, who backs up to dodge. Baraka then kicks Terry, who falls out of a doorway that leads to the main arena. He sees the chaos happening.) D*mn… (We cut to Kao who sees Terry in the doorway with Baraka approaching behind him. A determined look crosses his face.)

Kao: I’ve gotta help him. (We cut to Baraka as he steps on Terry’s back and raises his blade.)

Baraka: Begone, Earthrealmer.

Kao: Yah! (Kao jumps in and punches Baraka in the face with fiery gloves. Baraka’s face catches fire as he falls to the ground.)

Baraka: Gah! Agh! (Baraka holds the side of his face and crawls away. Terry then gets up and kicks Baraka across the room into a wall where he falls limp. He turns to Kao.)

Terry: Thanks for the help, little guy. (Kao smiles. We cut to a group of Tarkatans and Wireframe Macs terrorizing the crowd as Paul suddenly comes in and punches a Tarkatan away. He announces to the other fighters.)

Paul: C’mon! We gotta help Mac! (We cut to Kyle and Felicia (Darkstalkers) punching and clawing at Tarkatans and Wireframe Macs.)

Kyle: C'mon, tough guy! (We cut again to King Hippo squeezing a Wireframe Mac as Tina kicks a Tarkatan down.)

Tina: Ha! (We cut a third time to see Dan (Street Fighter) and Jacky Bryant (Virtua Fighter) fighting off Tarkatans and Wireframe Macs. We cut back to Mac and Sukapon in the ring as Shao Kahn approaches them. Doc stands in his way and rips his hoodie off, revealing a leopard print leotard.)

Doc: You wanna mess with Mac, you gotta get through me!

Shao Kahn: So be it! (Shao Kahn slams his hammer into Doc’s face, knocking him out of the ring.)

Mac: Doc! (We see anger begin to fill Mac’s body. Ryu, Jago, Kao, and Terry jump into the ring. Ryu jumps at Shao Kahn, but is knocked away.)

Shao Kahn: Pathetic! (Jago slashes Shao Kahn, but is then kicked away. Terry then runs at him, but Shao Kahn throws his hammer into him. We cut back to Mac as he gets into a fighting stance. We then cut to Kao and Sukapon as they try to drag Shao Kahn away.) You are weak! (Shao Kahn materializes the hammer back into his hand as he knocks them both away. He then faces Mac.) Long live the champion!

Mac: Rah! (Three stars form around Mac’s glove as he uppercuts Shao Kahn, sending him flying through the hole in the wall that Cyrax made.)

Shao Kahn: Aaaaaaaah!

(We cut forward in time as Doc is wheeled into an ambulance. Mac stands close by.)

Mac: You’re gonna be okay, Doc. I’ll be waiting for you when you get out.

Doc: Heh… haven’t been back in the ring for a long time. Ooh… I’m gonna need some chocolate after this. (They drive Doc away as Mac walks over to Ryu, Jago, Sukapon, Kao, and Terry.)

Mac: So that guy was working for some… Master Mind guy?

Ryu: Yeah. It looks like he was trying to wipe out people like us. Warriors who can stand up to him.

Terry: Then let’s show him that that isn’t possible. (Kao jumps into the air as Sukapon spins around.)

Kao: Yah!

Jago: That hammer-wielding tyrant could still be out there. What do we do about him?

Ryu: He shall fall like the rest.

(We cut to another part of the city. We see Shao Kahn on the ground as he slowly gets up.)

Shao Kahn: (Gripping his hammer.) Master Mind’s plan is finished. My vengeance will be met. (The camera cuts to see someone watching Shao Kahn from the rooftops as the screen goes black.)

End of Episode

Chapter 38: Jungle Japes

(The episode begins looking down on a forest. We cut to the branches as we see AiAi sleeping on a tree branch. He slowly wakes up and stretches his arms over his head. He then jumps down from the tree as we see Dixie Kong (Donkey Kong) and Tiny Kong (Donkey Kong). They wave at him.)

Dixie Kong: Haha! (AiAi smiles and waves back as he begins walking through the area. AiAi passes by Chunky Kong (Donkey Kong) holding a Primeape (Pokemon) that is swinging at him by the face.)

Primeape: Ape! Ape! Ape! (Lanky Kong (Donkey Kong) points and laughs at the Primeape. AiAi eventually makes his way to Cranky Kong (Donkey Kong) who is sitting in a rocking chair.)

Cranky Kong: Nyeh… (Cranky Kong reaches down and picks up a banana. He then throws it to AiAi who smiles before peeling it and taking a bite.)

(The camera zooms out as it pans to an area of the forest a little further away. We see Cortex’s airship docked in a clearing in the forest with large patches adorning it. We cut closer to the airship as we see Cortex exit.)

Cortex: By my calculations, there should be a shard of the Shadow Crystal nearby. (Specter then exits the airship in his hovering chair.)

Specter: Well then, perhaps this mission will be easier than we thought. But just in case… (Specter turns back towards the airship as Pipotron Red, Pipotron Blue, and Pipotron Yellow (all from Ape Escape) trail out.)

Cortex: Just what we need, more of your monkeys. (Specter turns to him angrily.)

Specter: Where’s your help then, Cortex? (Cortex puts a hand to his head.)

Cortex: Ugh… Crash! (Crash and Aku-Aku jump out of the airship and walk towards Cortex, both of them with a dark aura and yellow eyes. Once Crash makes it to Cortex, he salutes with his tongue out.) Even mind-controlled, you’re still an idiot. (Cortex points towards the trees.) Go look for the Shadow Crystal, you dolt. (Crash nods and runs off with Aku-Aku.)

Specter: You’re sending them off alone?

Cortex: No way am I working with that blithering rodent again. Come on. (Cortex, Specter, and the Pipotrons set off.)

(We cut back to AiAi and the Kongs as they eat bananas while sitting together. AiAi suddenly gets up and walks back to his tree.)

AiAi: Eek eek! (He smiles at the Kongs as he climbs up. We cut back to the Kongs as we suddenly hear the voice of Specter.)

Specter: Well well, what have we here? (The camera pans to see Specter, Cortex, and the Pipotrons.)

Cortex: I’ll leave this one to you, Specter. (Dixie Kong walks up to the villains and offers them a banana while smiling at them. Pipotron Red then swipes the hat off of Dixie’s head.)

Dixie Kong: Ah?! (She reaches for her hat as Pipotron Red places a pipo helmet on Dixie’s head. Dixie stops moving for a second before silently taking her place beside next to the Pipotrons. The rest of the Kongs look on in shock. Tiny, Chunky, and Lanky then get a look of anger before charging towards Specter.)

Cortex: (Pulling out his blaster.) Not so fast, banana brains! (We cut back to AiAi’s tree as he drops his monkey ball down from the branches. AiAi then drops down and begins rolling it to where the Kongs are. He suddenly stops in shock as the camera turns to see all the Kongs with pipo helmets on.)

Specter: Hahaha! This should make everything a little easier. (Cortex then spots AiAi getting into his monkey ball.)

Cortex: Looks like you missed one. (AiAi begins rolling away. Specter points towards AiAi.)

Specter: Pipotrons! Get that deserter! (The Pipotrons begin sprinting after AiAi as he tears through the forest.)

(We cut to a different part of the forest to find a group of three Dodongos (The Legend of Zelda). One of them breathes out a plume of fire. The camera pans to see Dart Feld as he’s engulfed by the flames. The flames eventually subside as we see that Dart is fine.)

Dart: D*mn. These things are no joke. (Dart runs up to the Dodongo in the middle and slashes at it three times before kicking it twice, sending it away. The other two Dodongos hiss at Dart as they flee the scene.) That’s that then. (Dart sheathes his sword and begins walking through the woods, keeping his guard up. He then hears rustling coming from the bushes as he puts his hand on his sword cautiously.) Is someone there? (The rustling continues as Dart walks closer to the bushes. He carefully unsheathes his sword as he reaches towards the bush. Suddenly, Crash jumps from the bushes.)

Crash: Woah! (He spins at Dart and sends him flying into a tree, making him drop his sword.)

Dart: Agh! (Dart quickly gets up and grabs his sword while charging at Crash. He slashes at Crash, but he dodges out of the way. He then kicks Crash to the ground, but Aku-Aku shoots out a laser that knocks Dart back.)

Aku-Aku: Aboogidaba! (Dart quickly gets up and spins around with his sword, slashing at Aku-Aku and sending him flying. Crash then jumps over and latches onto Dart as the two begin to wrestle. We cut to Aku-Aku as he floats back up, with the shadowy aura no longer around him.) Ooh… what happened? (Aku-Aku looks over to see Crash on top of Dart trying desperately to punch him while Dart pushes him back by the face.)

Dart: Get off of me! (Aku-Aku then shoots another laser from his eyes and blasts Crash off of Dart. We see the shadowy aura dissipate from Crash as he jumps up and rubs his head.)

Crash: Ooh! (Dart holds his sword at the ready as he looks from Crash to Aku-Aku.)

Dart: What are you things?

Aku-Aku: (Cautiously approaching.) It’s okay, young one. We’re not gonna hurt you. I am Aku-Aku. This is Crash. (Crash extends his arm for a hand shake. Dart keeps his sword out and doesn’t shake Crash’s hand.)

Dart: I don’t trust you quite yet.

Aku-Aku: I don’t blame you. (Crash moves towards Dart more with his hand. Dart raises his sword higher as Crash raises his hands in defense.)

Crash: Woah!

Aku-Aku: I believe we have been mind-controlled by Master Mind. I’m not sure what we’re doing here though.

Dart: (Sheathing his sword.) Who is Master Mind? (Crash runs up and performs an evil laugh. He mimics shooting lightning out of his fingers before raising his hands evilly and laughing again.)

Aku-Aku: He’s a bit like that. He’s planning on bringing this world to its knees which we cannot allow under any circumstances. He already has Dr. Cortex working for him. Who knows who else he has under his thumb. (Crash nods in agreement.)

Dart: Sounds like you’re gonna need a little help then. (He begins walking off.) C’mon, I think I can get us out of here. (Crash and Aku-Aku follow.)

(We cut to Professor Layton, Rouge, and Kiryu as they travel through the forest. Layton studies his piece of the Shadow Crystal as they walk.)

Layton: This is truly remarkable. I’ve never seen a gem that is quite like this.

Rouge: What’s so special about it, doc?

Layton: Its composition isn’t like any other gems that I know of. I believe it to be crystal, but it also seems to almost be…

Kiryu: Almost be what?

Layton: Supernatural. (They suddenly hear something coming towards them fast.)

Kiryu: (Readying himself.) Something’s coming. (Rouge begins hovering with her wings in midair.)

Rouge: Let’s hope it isn’t some wild animal. (From the forest, we suddenly see AiAi roll in in his monkey ball. We see him hit a rock as his ball opens up and he flies out. He lands in the arms of Kiryu.)

Kiryu: A… monkey?

Layton: In some sort of contraption, no less.

AiAi: Eek eek eek! (AiAi begins pointing frantically to where he came from.)

Rouge: Something’s stressing the little guy out. (Suddenly, Pipotron Yellow jumps in and steals Layton’s hat.)

Layton: My goodness! (Pipotron Yellow puts it on as the other two Pipotrons take their place beside him.)

Kiryu: What are those things?

Layton: A group of mechanical apes it seems like. (Layton puts the Shadow Crystal shard in his jacket.)

Rouge: What are you waiting for, boys? Let’s show these apes we mean business. (Rouge flies forward and kicks Pipotron Blue. Pipotron Blue then grabs her foot and swings her into a tree.) Ouch! (We see Kiryu put AiAi on his back as Layton runs away from Pipotron Yellow. Pipotron Red runs up to Kiryu and punches him with an electric punch. Kiryu is sent far back.)

Kiryu: Agh! (We cut to Layton running from Pipotron Yellow. Pipotron Yellow shoots fire projectiles out of his hands at Layton.)

Layton: Oh dear! (Layton dives out of the way. He then begins climbing up a thin tree. Pipotron Yellow follows him. We cut back to Rouge as she kicks at Pipotron Blue again. Pipotron Blue dodges and then jumps at Rouge, punching her back.)

Rouge: Ah! Alright, you wanna play that way? (She pulls out a bomb.) Then lets play. (Rouge scoops up a bunch of rocks and starts throwing them at Pipotron Blue while flying around. Pipotron Blue catches the rocks and throws them back as Rouge dodges. Rouge then throws her bomb which Pipotron Blue catches.)

Pipotron Blue: Eek! (Before he can throw it back at Rouge, it explodes and sends Pipotron Blue soaring away. Rouge waves at him.)

Rouge: Good riddance. (We cut back to Kiryu as he picks up a log and swings it at Pipotron Red.)

Kiryu: Ha! (Kiryu slams the log into Pipotron Red’s head. It breaks in two and knocks Pipotron Red over. Kiryu then walks over to Pipotron Red as he suddenly gets up and blasts lightning into his chest. Kiryu drops to the ground as AiAi jumps at Pipotron Red while wearing boxing gloves. He punches Pipotron Red in the face, sending him back.)

AiAi: Yahoo! (We cut back to Layton as he continues to climb the tree. The tree begins to bend over as the two climb.)

Layton: You’ll have to excuse me. I’m not much of a fighter. (Layton grabs the top of the tree and jumps onto the ground, revealing that the tree has bent all the way back to the forest floor.) I prefer to outwit my opponent. Safe travels. (He grabs his hat off of Pipotron Yellow and lets go of the tree which slingshots Pipotron Yellow into the horizon. We cut back to AiAi as he dodges lightning shots from Pipotron Red.)

AiAi: Eek! (He jumps into his monkey ball to shield himself. As he does, Kiryu jumps behind cover of the rock next to AiAi.)

Kiryu: Are you familiar with bowling? (AiAi gives a look of recognition and nods. Kiryu jumps up and grabs AiAi in his ball. He then chucks AiAi at Pipotron Red. The hit knocks Pipotron Red into the horizon. We cut to AiAi who has swirly eyes and looks dazed. Kiryu walks over and opens the ball. He takes AiAi out and holds him in his arms.) Not bad. (Layton and Rouge walk up.)

Rouge: Who’s your new friend, Kiryu?

AiAi: AiAi!

Kiryu: Seems his name is AiAi.

Layton: Why did those things attack us? (AiAi suddenly drops out of Kiryu’s arms and starts wildly pointing at where he came from.)

Kiryu: AiAi is in trouble. He needs our help.

Layton: Are there more of those things, AiAi? (AiAi nods.)

Rouge: Is anyone in danger? (AiAi nods more vigorously.)

Kiryu: Then lead the way. (AiAi jumps into his ball and rolls off while the others follow.)

(We cut to Crash, Dart, and Aku-Aku as they continue through the forest.)

Dart: This Master Mind sounds like no joke.

Aku-Aku: He is a force to be reckoned with.

???: Well, if it isn’t Crash Bandicoot. (Our heroes turn around to see Cortex and Specter behind them. Cortex is pointing his blaster at them.) Looks like you’ve defected back already. What a pity. You may have actually been useful.

Aku-Aku: What do you want, Cortex?

Cortex: Master Mind won’t like it if I lose his new toys. (Cortex snaps his fingers. Chunky Kong drops down from above and grabs Crash and Aku-Aku in one hand and Dart in the other.)

Specter: You’ll be coming with us until we find that Shadow Crystal shard.

Dart: Let us go! You don’t know who you’re messing with!

Cortex: I’m messing with a child and an idiotic marsupial. I think I’ll manage. (They set off.)

(We cut to Layton, Rouge, Kiryu, and AiAi as they continue through the forest. They eventually come across Cortex’s airship where they see Crash, Dart, and Aku-Aku being held by Chunky Kong, as well as the other Kongs, Cortex, and Specter.)

Rouge: (To AiAi.) Those your friends? (AiAi nods sadly.)

Layton: What are they wearing? (AiAi mimics putting a helmet on his head. He then sticks his arms out like a zombie.) Are you saying that they're wearing some kind of mind-control helmet? (AiAi nods sadly again.)

Kiryu: Whatever is going on here, we have to put a stop to it. (We cut back to Crash, Dart, and Aku-Aku as Chunky Kong throws them to the ground. Cortex points his blaster at them.)

Cortex: The three of you will be staying on the ship while we look for the Shadow Crystal shard. Got that?

Dart: You don’t scare me.

Specter: Quiet, human! (Specter floats closer to Dart as his chair glows.) Don’t make me say it again.

???: Yahoo! (Specter looks up.)

Specter: Huh? (We see AiAi gliding towards the villains using his monkey ball. He glides towards Specter and kicks him off of his chair before landing next to Crash and Dart. Crash quickly gets up and spins Specter’s chair away.) No! My throne! (Layton, Rouge, and Kiryu join the others.)

Kiryu: Let them go! (Specter gets up and dusts himself off.)

Specter: So, you wanna play hero, huh? (Specter points at our heroes.) Attack! (The Kongs charge towards our heroes. We see Chunky punch Kiryu away and Cranky hit Crash with his cane. Dart rushes towards Specter as Pipotron G (Ape Escape) suddenly jumps in and punches Dart away.)

Dart: (Getting up.) What is that thing?

Specter: Let’s just call it my last resort. (We cut to Lanky using his Grape Shooter to shoot grapes at Layton, who tries to shield himself with his hat. We then see Rouge flying towards Tiny. As she gets close, Tiny shrinks down. Rouge stops and looks around.)

Rouge: Huh? (Tiny then goes back to normal size and uppercuts Rouge. We cut to AiAi as Dixie knocks him away with her hair. Kiryu and Chunky push against each other in the background. We then cut to Crash as Cranky beats him with his cane.)

Cranky Kong: Heheh! (Crash spins Cranky away.)

Crash: Ooh! (Cranky gets back up and charges towards Crash. Crash takes out his Fruit Bazooka and fires a Wumpa Fruit at Cranky. It hits him in the head and shatters the pipo helmet. Cranky looks around confused.)

Cranky Kong: Huh?

Aku-Aku: Looks like we weren’t the only ones who were mind-controlled, Crash. (We cut back to Dart as he transforms into his Red-Eyed Dragoon form.)

Dart: Ha! (Pipotron G charges towards him, but he shoots a fireball at her which makes her stumble back. She retaliates with a punch that sends Dart flying, but he lands on his feet.)

Specter: Get him! (We cut back to Chunky as he fires his Pineapple Bazooka at Kiryu. Kiryu dodges away from the shots. One pineapple goes straight for his head as Kiryu punches it into multiple pieces.)

Kiryu: Yah! (Kiryu runs at Chunky. Chunky goes for a punch, but Kiryu jumps onto his arm, flips over his head, and grabs the pipo helmet off of him. Kiryu then lands and breaks the pipo helmet in half as Chunky looks around confused. We then cut to Rouge as she avoids Tiny’s punches. Tiny throws another punch at Rouge, but she grabs her arm.)

Rouge: Gotcha! (Tiny throws another punch, but Rouge grabs that too. Rouge then rapidly flaps her wings until Tiny’s pipo helmet flies off of her and shatters. Tiny looks around, dazed.) Phew… you’re welcome. (We cut back to Dart as he stabs his sword into the ground. This summons a wave of fire that blasts into Pipotron G. She roars angrily and tries to slam her fists onto Dart, who uses his wings to propel himself out of the way. Dart then jumps at Pipotron G and slashes at her four times.)

Dart: Yah! (We cut back to AiAi as he jumps into his ball to escape Dixie. He rolls around the area as Dixie charges at him. She finally jumps onto the ball and starts hitting it with her hair.)

AiAi: Eek! (AiAi then opens the top of the ball which sends Dixie up high. She uses her hair to slow her fall by using it as a propeller. As she does, the pipo helmet loosens until her hair makes it fly off.)

Dixie: Eh? (Dixie looks confused as she suddenly falls from the sky. AiAi jumps out of his ball and catches her. Dixie then smiles at him as the two hug.)

AiAi: Yay! (We cut back to Layton as Lanky circles him.)

Layton: Now listen, I don’t want to hurt you. (Lanky spins towards him and begins spinning him around wildly.) Woah! Oh dear! (We see the Shadow Crystal shard fly out of his coat and land on the ground. We then see Cortex hiding behind his airship. Cortex spots the Shadow Crystal shard on the ground.)

Cortex: Haha! Just what I needed! (We cut to Dart as Pipotron G picks him up and throws him.)

Dart: Ah! (Dart flies through the air as his sword falls from his hand. (We cut back to Layton who stops spinning just in time to grab Dart’s sword in midair and slash across the top of Lanky’s head, destroying the pipo helmet.)

Lanky: Opa? (Lanky looks around confused.)

Layton: (To Dart.) Thank you for the assistance, dear boy! (He tosses the sword back towards Dart as we see Pipotron G charging at him again. Dart grabs it and flies into the air.)

Dart: Final Burst! (Dart propels himself towards Pipotron G while surrounded by fire. He soars into her and sends her flying into the trees which collapse on top of her. Dart then lands on the ground and turns back to normal as the others gather around him.)

Specter: No no no! I’ll get you for this! (Specter is then tapped on the shoulder.) Huh? (He turns around to see all the Kongs looking down angrily at him.) Oh… (All the Kongs jump towards Specter and perform a quick flurry of punches. A counter on the side displays “10 Hits!” as Specter goes flying.) I’ll remember thiiiiiiiiiiiis! (The Kongs celebrate as our heroes watch.)

Aku-Aku: Where is Dr. Cortex?

Cortex: Looking for me? (The camera pans to see Cortex on his airship as it takes off. He holds the Shadow Crystal shard in his hand.) I have everything I need. Farewell, bandicoot. (Cortex enters his airship as it begins to fly away.)

Layton: (Checking his coat.) How did he…

Aku-Aku: We can’t let him get away with that shard.

Dart: I have a bone to pick with him anyway. (Dart runs after the airship as the others follow. Rouge grabs AiAi in his ball as they fly onto the outside of the ship.)

Rouge: Get on! Quick! (Dart runs up and grabs the railing of the ship, quickly followed by Kiryu. The two of them pull themselves up. Aku-Aku flies up to the others as Crash and Layton rush to catch up. Crash barely grabs onto the bottom of the railing and grabs Layton’s hand. Kiryu and Dart help them up.)

Layton: Well, no turning back now. (Our heroes look at each other as the camera slowly zooms out to see the Cortex’s airship flying through the area. The screen fades to black.)

End of Episode

Chapter 39: Dark Dawn

(The episode begins looking down on a bustling town. We cut closer in as we see Nero walking along the sidewalk. He passes by PJ Berri (PaRappa the Rapper) eating a hamburger. He is then passed by Vivi (Final Fantasy) walking through town. Nero then arrives at a building with a makeshift sign out front that says “Devil May Cry”. Nero walks inside to see Trish (Devil May Cry) eating a slice of pizza from a box on a desk with a telephone on it.)

Trish: Welcome back, Nero. (She gestures to the pizza box.) Pizza? (Nero grabs a slice of pizza.)

Nero: Anything from Dante yet?

Trish: (Shakes her head.) Haven’t heard from him. If he’s somewhere here, it doesn’t seem like we’re gonna find him.

Nero: (Takes a bite.) D*mn. (There’s a knock at the door. Trish starts to get up, but Nero moves towards the door first.) I’ll get it. (Nero sets down his pizza and opens the door to see an old woman on the other side with a cross around her neck. Nero leans his arm against the doorway.) Devil May Cry, how can we help?

Woman: Oh, hello. Are you the new… um… demon hunters in town?

Nero: Yeah… something like that.

Woman: Well, I’ve been seeing these strange demonic creatures around town. They’ve been keeping to the shadows and I fear for this town’s safety. (Nero stops leaning on the doorframe and grabs the Red Queen from beside the door. He sheathes it on his back.)

Nero: No worries. I’ll take a look around. (Nero exits.) I’ll be back, Trish.

Trish: I’ll save some pizza for you. (Nero shuts the door.)

(We cut back to the town as Nero hurries through. We see him pass by an outdoor theater with a large crowd gathered on bleachers. The camera zooms in to the stage as we see Salvatore (The Legend of Zelda) seated next to a table on the stage.)

Salvatore: Everyone was very scared. The sky was very dark and scary. (Cardboard cutouts of clouds and a cardboard cutout of Ganon suddenly drop in from overhead. Iota (Tearaway) and Atoi (Tearaway) then run onto the stage and wave their arms above their heads.)

Iota: Help us!

Atoi: Won’t anyone save us?

Salvatore: And then suddenly, a hero emerged to save us all from peril. (Suddenly, Kutaro bursts onto the stage wearing a replica of Link’s hat and wielding Calibrus. He slashes at the cardoard cutout of Ganon and cuts it in half.) And so, all the islands in the Great Sea were saved. (He raises his arms unenthusiastically.) Hooray! Hooray! (The crowd cheers.)

(We jump forward in time after the show. Kutaro is now dressed normally as he jumps off of the stage. He begins walking through town until he suddenly sees a large shadow moving across the ground.)

Kutaro: Huh? (Kutaro looks from side to side to see if anyone else has noticed, but he seems to be the only one who's notices. He then takes off after the mysterious shadow.)

(We cut to the forest as we see Elora (Spyro the Dragon) and Hunter (Spyro the Dragon). A large, golden hand then descends towards them holding multiple dragon eggs.)

Elora: Thanks again for helping us get those dragon eggs, Isaac. (The camera pans to see Isaac controlling the large hand. The hand dissipates as the dragon eggs softly fall to the ground.)

Isaac: No worries. I’m happy to help. (Hunter crouches down to study the dragon eggs.)

Hunter: Yeah, and if you see Spyro anywhere, be sure to send him our way. (He nudges Elora.) Elora here misses him.

Elora: (Shooting a look at Hunter.) We all miss him, Hunter.

Isaac: I’ll keep an eye out. (He begins to walk away.) Farewell! (Elora and Hunter wave as Isaac sets off.)

(We cut again as we see Corvo, Connor, and Bayonetta walking on a path through the forest.)

Connor: The next town shouldn’t be far now. We should get there far before nightfall.

Corvo: Let’s hope that no demons or psychopaths have already beaten us there. (They continue walking. We cut away to see Isaac on a similar path in the forest. We see him spot the other heroes.)

Isaac: Well, they look… friendly? (Suddenly, Shadow Bugs (Super Smash Bros.) begin falling from the sky in a circle around Corvo, Connor, and Bayonetta. They all look up in confusion.)

Corvo: Huh? (The Shadow Bugs begin morphing together as they form Primids (Super Smash Bros.). They all take battle stances as Corvo and Bayonetta ready their guns and Connor readies a tomahawk.)

Bayonetta: Now, this shouldn’t take too much of our time. (Bayonetta points her two pistols at a Primid when she’s suddenly hit in the back of the head by a large sword and is knocked out.)

Connor: (Looking down at Bayonetta.) No! (Corvo and Connor look upon Bayonetta’s assailant, the Black Knight, with his sword at the ready.)

Corvo: Who the hell are you?

Black Knight: You’re better off not knowing, or perhaps even asking. But if you must refer to me, then I am the Black Knight, member of the Knights of the Demon. The three of you have gotten our attention after your interference in our work.

Connor: So you’re here to kill us like dogs.

Black Knight: (Shaking his head.) On the contrary. I’m here to extend a deal. (He turns to the Primids.) Restrain the witch. (He turns back to Corvo and Connor.) Follow my lead lest you wish to meet your maker. (We cut back to Isaac as he watches the Primids drag Bayonetta away while tied up. Two other Primids restrain Connor and Corvo as they follow the Black Knight.)

Isaac: This looks bad. (A determined look suddenly crosses Isaac’s face as he unsheathes his long sword.) I have to help them. (He sets off after them.)

(We cut back to Kutaro as he makes his way through the town. He looks around for the shadow again before he spots it moving towards a large warehouse.)

Kutaro: Aha! (He races towards it. We then cut to Nero walking around the town as he spots Kutaro.)

Nero: Huh. Strange kid. (Nero then spots the shadow that Kutaro is chasing as it moves under the door to the warehouse.) Hmm. (Nero grabs his sword as he moves towards the warehouse. We cut to Kutaro opening the warehouse door and walking into a large, dark, and barren area. He looks around.)

Kutaro: Hello? Anyone home? (We suddenly see Meta Knight walk out of the shadows towards Kutaro.)

Meta Knight: Looks like we have an intruder. (Kutaro backs up and bumps into Nightmare behind him.)

Nightmare: Any intruders will be met with deadly force.

Kutaro: I’m… I’m sorry. I just… I just saw… (Nightmare raises the Soul Edge.)

Nightmare: Sword, quench your thirst! (He’s about to strike when Nero bursts into the room through a window. He shoots repeatedly at Nightmare, stopping him from striking Kutaro.)

Nero: Hey, *sshole! (Kutaro quickly runs up to Nero and takes out Calibrus.) Who are you clowns supposed to be?

Meta Knight: We are the Knights of the Demon, child. We will not be trifled with. (Meta Knight takes out his sword as he and Nightmare stance up. We cut back to Nero and Kutaro.)

Nero: Come to papa! (Nero charges forward followed by Kutaro. Nero and Nightmare clash swords. Nero slashes at Nightmare three times, but Nightmare blocks each strike.)

Nightmare: Blood! Darkness! (Nightmare slashes at Nero and sends him back.) I shall drown the world in both! (Nero turns back to Nightmare and rapidly shoots at him.)

Nero: Boom! (Nightmare seems annoyed by the shots. He charges forward and slashes at Nero. Nero does a backflip over the Soul Edge. He lands on the ground and strikes at Nightmare again. Nightmare then strikes Nero with his large hand and sends Nero away.)

Nightmare: Got you! (We cut to Meta Knight and Kutaro. Meta Knight rapidly strikes against Kutaro, but Kutaro barely blocks the blows with Calibrus. Meta Knight then hits Kutaro with a heavy blow which sends him flying back. As he lands, his head pops off.)

Meta Knight: Hmph, not even a challenge. (Kutaro jumps up and puts on a Bat Head. Meta Knight flies at Kutaro, but a swarm of bats suddenly flies through and stampedes him.) Woah! (Kutaro runs over to his original head and puts it back on.)

Kutaro: Phew! (We cut back to Nero as he pushes Nightmare back with a heavy blow. Meta Knight flies over to Nightmare.)

Nightmare: I grow tired of this skirmish. (Nightmare raises his arm.) Come to me, demon! (King Boom Boo (Sonic the Hedgehog) suddenly materializes above Nightmare and Meta Knight and lets out a ghastly scream. Nero and Kutaro look up at it.)

Nero: What the hell is this? (Nero looks back down to see Nightmare and Meta Knight have disappeared.) D*mnit! (To Kutaro.) Alright, kid. Think you can handle this?

Kutaro: (Nods.) I think so.

(We cut away back to the forest. We see Isaac crouch behind a bush as he watches the Black Knight. We then cut to Bayonetta tied to a tree, still unconscious, as the Black Knight faces Corvo and Connor. An army of Primids surrounds them.)

Connor: What are you?

Black Knight: I was brought to this world by a higher power, much like all of you. Master Mind, the same monster I had heard tales of as a boy, brought us here to play his game. He approached me to be a commander of an army of demons under the rule of the greatest demon of all.

Corvo: If he is a monster, then why did you agree?

Black Knight: We are in his domain playing by his own rules. To say no would be to end my own life. He granted me an army that can be formed at a moment’s notice. (He gestures to the Primids.) In this war, you either join Master Mind or fall beneath him. So I offer you a chance of survival. Join us.

Connor: You really think we would throw away our morals to join an army of demons.

Black Knight: There is no other choice! To fight the Gods is a fruitless endeavor!

Corvo: I would rather die than join this bloody crusade of yours. (Black Knight raises his sword.)

Black Knight: So be it. (Black Knight prepares to strike as a giant yellow hand suddenly moves through, grabbing a hold of the Black Knight and several Primids.) What kind of sorcery… (We cut to Isaac jumping into the battle. He stabs a Primid with his sword, causing it to spurt Shadow Bugs. He then slashes another Primid across the chest.)

Isaac: Come on! Grab your friend and let’s get out of here! (Connor takes out a tomahawk and cuts the rope around Bayonetta. He helps her to her feet. Corvo shoots at Primids in the background.)

Bayonetta: (Waking up.) Ooh… what happened?

Connor: Come, Bayonetta, let us make our escape! (Our heroes run off as the hand around the Black Knight dissipates. He lands on his knees on the ground. He slowly gets up.)

Black Knight: You will pay for your hubris! (We see him begin throwing a large amount of Shadow Bugs across the ground. A crowd of Primids begins rising from it as the Black Knight points his sword towards the heroes.)

(We cut back to Nero and Kutaro as they fight King Boom Boo. Nero shoots at it, but it doesn’t seem to have any effect.)

Nero: Get out of my sight! (Big Boom Boo charges at Nero and sends him flying back.) Woah! (Nero is knocked into the wall. Kutaro then jumps at Big Boom Boo with Calibrus, but it has no effect. Big Boom Boo lets out a ghostly scream as it charges into Kutaro knocking him towards the broken window.)

Kutaro: Ow… (Big Boom Boo floats towards Kutaro. The light from the broken window then shines on it, and it screams in pain and moves back.) Huh?

Nero: (Getting up.) So you’re weak to light, huh? (Nero looks up to see a skylight on the ceiling being blocked by covers.) Hey, kid! Over here! (Kutaro looks up and sees the skylight.)

Kutaro: Reading you loud and clear! (Kutaro takes off his head and replaces it with a Paper Lantern Head. It immediately attracts fireflies as King Boom Boo floats back from Kutaro, scared.)

King Boom Boo: Ooooh! Ooooh! (Kutaro pushes him back until he’s under the skylight. Nero then points his gun up to the skylight.)

Nero: Pack it up freakshow! (Nero shoots the skylight as the glass breaks and the covers fall through. Light immediately comes in and hits King Boom Boo.)

King Boom Boo: Ooogh! (King Boom Boo turns into a shadow on the ground. Kutaro lunges at it with Calibrus.)

Kutaro: There we go! (He slashes at the shadow and it rips in two and fizzles away. Kutaro puts his normal head back and pumps his arm in the air.) Yeah!

Nero: That takes care of him. (To Kutaro.) Come on! Let’s find the other guys. (They exit the warehouse as a Primid jumps out at them.) Sh*t! (Nero shoots it in the head and it dies.) Uh oh. (The camera pans to see Primids flooding the town.)

(We cut back to Corvo, Connor, Bayonetta, and Isaac as they look around at the Primids.)

Connor: We have to protect the town! (Connor throws a tomahawk at a Primid. It lands in its forehead, killing it.)

Bayonetta: Don’t hold back, boys. (A Primid comes up behind her, but is suddenly shot. Nero and Kutaro run up to the others.)

Nero: You guys part of the cavalry?

Corvo: We’ve angered a member of the Knights of the Demon.

Nero: Funny. (Nero shoots another Primid.) Us too.

Bayonetta: Small world. (The camera pans to see the Black Knight enter the area with more Primids behind him.)

Black Knight: Know your place! (The Primids run through the town.)

Isaac: That’s the guy. (Nero activates his Devil Trigger form. He raises his sword towards the Black Knight.)

Nero: Leave him to me.

Bayonetta: I’m starting to like this boy. (Nero sprints towards the Black Knight as the others spread out. Nero lunges at the Black Knight as they trade four sword strikes.)

Nero: Shall we dance?

Black Knight: You are a fool to fight me. (We cut to a group of Primids chasing pedestrians. Suddenly, one of Isaac’s giant hands swoops in and smashes the Primids with its fist. The camera pans to see Isaac.)

Isaac: Gotcha! (We see Bayonetta in the background using her weaves to summon a large heel that crushes two Primids. We then cut to Corvo shooting his crossbow at Primids. We cut again to Kutaro as he uses Calibrus to slash at a large group of Primids.)

Kutaro: Hyah! (We cut to Connor on a rooftop as he fires his bow and arrow below him. He then sees Nero and the Black Knight fighting. Connor runs and jumps off of the rooftop and lands nearby.)

Connor: Ha! (Connor shoots an arrow at the Black Knight. The Black Knight holds up his arm as it plinks off of his armor.)

Black Knight: This armor is blessed by the Gods! (The Black Knight runs up to Connor and slashes at him, knocking him onto the ground. Nero then runs up and slashes him into the air.)

Nero: Let’s get airborne! (He slashes the Black Knight away as he hits a wall.)

Black Knight: Agh! (We cut to Bayonetta as she spins in circles, shooting with both her pistols and her shoe pistol which take out Primids around her.)

Bayonetta: Hahaha! (We then cut to Corvo as he slashes at two Primids. Another Primid jumps at him, but is knocked away by Kutaro’s head that has flown through the air. Corvo looks over at it.)

Corvo: Huh? (Kutaro then runs up and puts his head back on.) Neat trick you’ve got there. (We cut back to Nero and the Black Knight. The Black Knight slashes him onto the ground. The Black Knight runs up to Nero to strike again, but is grabbed by Isaac’s giant hand.)

Black Knight: Again… (Isaac runs in front of Nero and holds his sword up.)

Isaac: Stop this! (Black Knight wrestles free of the hand and slashes at Isaac, knocking him down.) Agh! (One of Bayonetta’s weave hands then grabs the Black Knight as Bayonetta runs to protect Isaac. She shoots repeatedly at the Black Knight.)

Bayonetta: My turn now! (The Black Knight becomes free again as he slashes Bayonetta across the chest.)

Black Knight: Don’t make this more difficult than it has to be! (Nero then comes in behind the Black Knight and stabs him through his armor through the chest.) Gah!

Nero: Down you go! (We cut to Corvo and Kutaro slicing through the last of the Primids as they run over to Connor. Corvo helps him up.)

Corvo: (To Connor.) How’re you holding up?

Connor: Ugh… I’ll heal… (Our heroes gather around the Black Knight as Nero turns back to normal.)

Nero: Enough f*cking around. What do you want?

Black Knight: (Clutching his chest.) Guh… you may just… stand a chance…

Isaac: Against what? Master Mind?

Black Knight: Prove me wrong… destroy the other Knights of the Demon… slay their leader… free us all from Master Mind…

Connor: (Moving towards the Black Knight.) Let me remove your helmet. (Black Knight shakes his head.)

Black Knight: No… let me die like this… I dare not show my face after what I’ve done… (Black Knight slumps to the ground.) Farewell… (He dies.)

Nero: (To Kutaro.) Our job isn’t done yet, little buddy.

Corvo: Looks like we found the source of all these monsters.

Kutaro: Those other knights are tough. Do we stand a chance?

Bayonetta: (Smirking.) I think we stand more than just a chance. (She starts off.) Come on. We have a job to do. (The other heroes look at each other as they follow Bayonetta through the town. We pan up to the rooftops as we see Nightmare and Meta Knight watching them leave.)

Meta Knight: They will be looking for us.

Nightmare: Then we will put up a fight. (Nightmare looks down at the Black Knight’s corpse.) I always had the feeling he would betray us. He was always a proud one.

Meta Knight: We won’t need him for what’s to come next. (Meta Knight looks up at Nightmare.) Should we report back to Dracula?

Nightmare: (Nods.) Yes. Then we shall prepare for the carnage of those who dare stand against the Knights of the Demon. (Meta Knight and Nightmare look down upon the city as it slowly fades to black.)

End of Episode

Chapter 40: Chains of Olympus

(A/N: This episode contains Raiden from Mortal Kombat, not to be confused with Raiden from Metal Gear. In future episodes with both of these characters, they will be distinguished by Raiden (MK) and Raiden (MG).)

(The episode begins looking at a cartoony white background. Suddenly, the figure of Meat Boy pops into the picture, animated in the same style as the Super Meat Boy cutscenes.)

On-Screen Text: This is Meat Boy. (Meat Boy waves at the camera. Then, Bandage Girl (Super Meat Boy) materializes next to him.) This is Bandage Girl. She loves Meat Boy. (Bandage Girl hugs Meat Boy.) And Meat Boy loves her. (Hearts float around their heads. The background then turns into a swirling black and purple void.) But then the sky turned black and took them away. (Meat Boy and Bandage Girl float into the air. They hold onto each other for a few seconds before flying off into the background. The cartoony screen then shatters.)

(We cut to Hell. The camera zooms through the area. We see Isaac (The Binding of Isaac) crying on the ground. We eventually find Meat Boy wandering through the area. He puts his hand up to his chin as he looks around, confused. He then sets off again.)

(We cut again to a different part of Hell. We see the corpses of Senua (Hellblade) and John Doe (Twisted Metal) on the ground, bloodied. We then see Raiden walk over and study them.)

Raiden: It seems I am not the first to make this journey. (Raiden continues on. We cut again to see a large seal in the ground, glowing. Raiden begins walking towards it, but is hit by a lightning bolt and is thrown to the ground.) Agh!

???: Stay back, mortal! (Raiden gets up and turns to see Zeus.)

Raiden: Zeus, we meet at last.

Zeus: I assume you have come to try and stop me.

Raiden: (Points to the seal.) I cannot allow you to open this seal. To do so would be catastrophic for Earthrealm.

Zeus: That is exactly the point. Mortal man needs to be put in its place. Their arrogance against the Gods has gone too far. (He looks upon the seal.) Diablo is nearly set free to enact his carnage upon them.

Raiden: (Generating electricity in his hands.) Then you have given me no choice.

Zeus: I am afraid that your fight against me will have to wait. (He calls behind him.) My son, it is time for battle! (Kratos then jumps down from above in between Zeus and Raiden. He has a shadowy aura around him and yellow eyes. He holds up the Leviathan Axe.)

Kratos: Yes, father.

Zeus: A gift from Master Mind.

Raiden: So be it. (Raiden flies at Kratos and shoots lightning at him. The lightning hits Kratos in the chest and pushes him back a bit. Kratos retaliates by slashing Raiden across the chest and sending him flying back.)

Kratos: Rah! (Kratos runs at Raiden. Raiden shoots more lightning, but Kratos dives out of the way and throws his axe at Raiden.) Yah! (Raiden sidesteps out of the way as the axe lands on the ground beside him.)

Raiden: Your evil will not triumph! (Raiden jumps over to Kratos and punches him twice with his electrified fists. Kratos' ace then flies back into his hand as he slashes at Raiden, sending him back.)

Kratos: You invoke my rage! (Kratos puts his axe on his back as he takes the Blades of Chaos off of his back. He throws one at Raiden, which goes through his stomach. We cut to an up-close x-ray of it slicing through before going back to normal.)

Raiden: Ah! (Kratos flings Raiden up with the blade before slamming him back onto the ground.) Gah… (The camera zooms into Raiden's face as he suddenly has a vision. We see a campfire surrounded by trees. The Triforce slowly appears over the embers of the campfire. We cut back to Raiden.) What… (Kratos walks up to Raiden on the ground.)

Kratos: I'm going to cut off your head now. (Kratos readies his other Blade of Chaos as Raiden raises his arm into the air. A bolt of lightning comes down and strikes it. When the lightning disappears, Raiden is gone, leaving only a pool of his blood. Kratos and Zeus search for him.) He got away.

Zeus: No matter. I will send my soldiers out to look for him. (He turns to Kratos.) Let us return to the seal. (Kratos and Zeus walk away.)

(We cut back to Earth as we see a campfire. Around the campfire are Hayabusa, Goemon, and Zelda. They hold roasted skewers of fish which Goemon begins to eat.)

Goemon: Yum! These are delicious!

Zelda: (Laughs.) I'm glad you like it, Goemon. (Hayabusa studies his skewer.)

Hayabusa: If we fail this mission, so many innocent lives…

Zelda: We won’t fail, Ryu. (She takes a bite of her fish and swallows.) I bet Link is on his way right now to put a stop to Master Mind. (She frowns.) I hope he's okay. (Goemon puts a hand on Zelda's shoulder. She perks up a little. Suddenly, we hear rustling coming from the trees.)

Goemon: What was that? (Hayabusa stands up and readies his katana. He lays his fish skewer on the ground.)

Hayabusa: Who’s there? (Hayabusa walks towards where the sound is coming from. Raiden walks into the area with a hand covering the gash in his chest.)

Raiden: Diablo… is coming… (He drops to his knees. Hayabusa puts his katana away as Goemon and Zelda rush to Raiden's side.)

Goemon: Are you okay, sir?

Raiden: Zeus… he is releasing Diablo upon Earthrealm. Humanity… could be doomed. (Zelda pulls a red potion out of her pocket and hands it to Raiden.)

Zelda: Drink this. It'll help you feel better. (Raiden drinks the potion as his wound heals up.)

Raiden: Thank you.

Hayabusa: What’s troubling you?

Raiden: I was led here by strange visions. Zeus, the God of Thunder, wishes to release Diablo upon Earthrealm and destroy it. I faced his son, Kratos, and I barely escaped with my life. (Zelda turns to Hayabusa.)

Hayabusa: Kratos is there?

Raiden: Are you allied with him?

Hayabusa: He fought by my side against Master Mind. He is likely under the same spell that I was.

Goemon: Then we have to help him.

Zelda: (To Raiden.) We didn't get your name.

Raiden: I am Raiden, a protector of Earthrealm. Can I rely on your assistance?

Hayabusa: (Nods.) Yes, you can.

Raiden: Then I shall transport us to Zeus' domain. (Raiden holds his hand to the sky as lightning strikes him. It envelops all four of them as they disappear.)

(We cut back to Hell as we see Meat Boy still wandering around. He yells out around him.)

Meat Boy: Bandage Girl?! Where are you?! (He shakes his head sadly.) Don't worry, Bandage Girl. I'll find you. (A magical projectile suddenly hits Meat Boy, sending him flying back. He bounces a couple times until he lands, leaving a red mark wherever he goes.) Ow… (Meat Boy looks up to see Dark Pit (Kid Icarus) and King Dice (Cuphead) looking over at him. Dark Pit is holding his staff in front of him.)

King Dice: Looks like we've got ourselves another trespasser.

Dark Pit: Turn back now or face the wrath of Zeus. (Meat Boy jumps up and frowns at them. He makes a fist.)

Meat Boy: I've been wandering this hellscape for days, and I'll be damned if I'm gonna let a couple of chumps like you push me around.

King Dice: (Laughs.) You're already damned, kid. (He throws playing cards at Meat Boy.)

(We cut to Raiden, Hayabusa, Goemon, and Zelda teleporting back into Hell. They look around.)

Raiden: We are in his domain now. Keep your guard up. (Goemon looks over to see King Dice and Dark Pit attacking Meat Boy with cards and staff projectiles respectively.)

Goemon: That little meat boy is in trouble!

Raiden: (Looks over.) Zeus' forces no doubt. (We cut to Meat Boy jumping at King Dice and punching him. King Dice retaliates by throwing cards at Meat Boy.)

Meat Boy: Ugh! How many cards do you have? (There’s a sudden flash of lightning as the other four heroes materialize in front of Dark Pit and King Dice.)

Dark Pit: Looks like we found our guy. (Dark Pit begins shooting at Raiden.)

Raiden: Hah! (Raiden shoots lightning at Dark Pit and sends him flying backwards.)

Dark Pit: Aaaah! (Goemon then takes out his kiseru and hits King Dice in the leg.)

Goemon: Yah! (King Dice holds his leg in pain.)

King Dice: You little pest! (King Dice reaches into his coat and throws out a bunch of dominoes. They hit Goemon and knock him down.) Heh! That’ll teach you. (Meat Boy then runs in and punches King Dice while flipping him off. He then takes out a saw blade and throws it like a frisbee at King Dice. It cuts him in half.)

Meat Boy: F*ck you! (We cut to Dark Pit as he runs at Zelda, who's holding her sword. Dark Pit clashes at Zelda's sword with his staff as they trade blows.)

Zelda: Hyah! (Zelda slashes Dark Pit across the chest. Dark Pit does a spin and shoots Zelda with his staff, knocking her to the ground.)

Dark Pit: Stay down! (Hayabusa then jumps in and slashes Dark Pit away with his katana.)

Hayabusa: The form of an angel… (He throws a shuriken into Dark Pit's chest as he falls to the ground.) But the heart of a demon. (Raiden helps Zelda onto her feet.)

Raiden: You fought well. (Zelda nods at him. Meat Boy approaches the group.)

Meat Boy: Thanks for the assist. (He points his thumb at himself smugly.) I think I had it under control though.

Raiden: (To Meat Boy.) Do you know where Zeus is?

Meat Boy: (Thinking.) Hmmmm… I think those guys mentioned Zeus before they attacked me. (He walks over to where King Dice and Dark Pit came from.) So Zeus is probably this way. (Raiden begins leading the way.)

Raiden: There is still time to stop the seal from opening. Follow me. (Hayabusa, Goemon, and Zelda begin following Raiden. Meat Boy thinks for a moment before following.)

Meat Boy: Wait for me!

(We cut Zeus and Kratos. They look upon the seal which is glowing stronger than before.)

Zeus: It’s almost time. Soon, mankind will know the wrath of Olympus!

Kratos: Indeed. (Zeus studies Kratos.)

Zeus: It’s strange. You're much older than when I last laid my eyes on you. (He pauses.) What has changed?

Raiden: Zeus! (Zeus turns to see our heroes primed for battle. Raiden electrocutes his hands as Hayabusa and Zelda hold their weapons at the ready.)

Zeus: So, you have returned to stop me. With help, no less.

Raiden: I cannot allow you to summon Diablo. (Hayabusa steps forward.)

Hayabusa: Kratos, snap out of it! Your mind is not your own! (Kratos takes out the Blades of Chaos.)

Kratos: Silence!

Hayabusa: You are under Master Mind’s control!

Zeus: (To Kratos.) My son, kill them all! (Kratos runs forward while swinging his Blades or Chaos. He hits Hayabusa away and charges after him. Goemon and Meat Boy follow to help Hayabusa. Zelda and Raiden face Zeus.)

Zelda: So, you are Zeus.

Zeus: And you… the reincarnation of Hyrule's princess. (He summons a lightning bolt.) What an honor to do what the King of Darkness never could. (He throws the lightning bolt at Zelda and Raiden. Raiden flies out of the way and Zelda ducks out of the way.)

Raiden: Thunder take you! (Raiden shoots lightning at Zeus while Zelda uses Din's Fire to shoot a fireball at Zeus. They both hit him, angering him.)

Zeus: You dare hold arms against a God?! (Zeus shoots lightning from both of his hands. We cut to Kratos slashing at Hayabusa with his Blades of Chaos. He dodges the first two strikes and knocks the third strike away with his katana.)

Hayabusa: Kratos! Stop this!

Kratos: Rah! (Kratos slashes Hayabusa away with his blades. Goemon then jumps onto Kratos and hits him in the head with his kiseru. Kratos grabs his head and throws him onto the ground.) You are weak! (He holds his foot above Goemon's head, but Meat Boy runs underneath Kratos and grabs Goemon.)

Meat Boy: Saved ya! (Meat Boy pulls out a saw blade and throws it at Kratos.) Catch! (Kratos catches it and tears it in half.)

Kratos: Hah! (Meat Boy looks shocked. He then runs forward and punches Kratos twice in the chest. Kratos kicks Meat Boy away. Hayabusa runs over to Goemon and helps him up.)

Hayabusa: Goemon, how did you free me from Master Mind's control over me?

Goemon: I don’t really know. I just hit you a bunch and that shadow around you went away. (Hayabusa readies his shurikens.)

Hayabusa: Then I will not hold back. (Hayabusa throws his shurikens at Kratos. Three of them stick in his chest. We cut back to Zelda and Raiden. Zelda pulls out a Fire Rod and shoots a fireball at Zeus. It hits him back slightly.)

Zeus: I will end you! (Zeus jumps at Zelda and grabs her shoulder, sending electricity into her.)

Zelda: Yah!

Zeus: Hahahaha! (Electricity continues going into Zelda until Raiden flies in, using himself as a torpedo to fly into Zeus. The two of them fly forward. Zelda drops to her knees and holds onto her shoulder. We cut to Raiden and Zeus getting up.)

Raiden: You stand against a true God of Thunder!

Zeus: We will see about that! (Raiden punches Zeus twice in the face. Zeus fights back by punching Raiden in the chest. Zeus then uppercuts him into the air and throws a bolt of lightning at his chest. It explodes and sends him flying. We cut back to Goemon running at Kratos.)

Goemon: Hiyah! (He hits Kratos in the leg with his kiseru. Kratos gets onto one knee and knocks Goemon back with a Blade of Chaos. Meat Boy then runs in with a block of salt and throws it into Kratos' head.)

Kratos: Your efforts are of no use! (Kratos throws a Blade of Chaos at Meat Boy. Before it can hit, Hayabusa jumps in and deflects it.)

Hayabusa: This is your last chance, Kratos.

Kratos: Get out of my way. (Hayabusa runs at Kratos. Kratos slashes at him with his Blades of Chaos, but Hayabusa blocks the blows. He then pushes Kratos back and stabs into his chest with his katana.) Gah!

Hayabusa: This is for your own good! (He sticks his katana deeper in as Kratos screams, the shadowy aura flickering. Hayabusa then takes his katana out, jumps in the air, and delivers a kick to Kratos' head. It sends Kratos onto the ground as the shadowy aura completely disappears. Goemon and Meat Boy walk over.)

Meat Boy: Did we do it? (Kratos holds his head and looks at Hayabusa.)

Kratos: Ugh… where am I?

Hayabusa: Kratos, there is a lot I need to explain. For now, we need your help killing Zeus.

Kratos: Zeus? (Kratos gets up and looks over to where Zeus is. We cut to Zeus throwing a lightning bolt into Raiden's chest, knocking him to the ground. He then shoots a bolt of electricity into Zelda.)

Zelda: Ah! (We cut back to Kratos.)

Kratos: Zeus! (Kratos runs over to Zeus as the two lock eyes.)

Zeus: So, your mind is your own again. I feared this would happen.

Kratos: You're supposed to be dead. I killed you long ago.

Zeus: I have no idea what you're talking about. (Lightning crackles around Zeus' hands.) Time for you to die, son. (Zeus shoots lightning at Kratos. It hits Kratos in the chest, but that doesn't stop him. Kratos runs up to Zeus and stabs both Blades of Chaos into his chest.)

Kratos: I will kill you again! (Kratos throws Zeus onto the ground as blood seeps from him. He then puts his Blades of Chaos away. We cut to Hayabusa, Goemon, and Meat Boy helping Zelda and Raiden up.)

Hayabusa: Are you both alright?

Zelda: I'm okay, Ryu.

Raiden: Kratos… is he back to his senses?

Hayabusa: I believe so. (We cut to Kratos repeatedly punching Zeus in the face.)

Kratos: I killed you! I watched you die! (Kratos takes out his Leviathan Axe and stabs it into Zeus' chest.)

Zeus: Agh!

Kratos: And I will watch you die again. (There is a sudden rumbling.) Huh? (The camera pans over to the seal.)

Raiden: No! It's opening!

Zeus: Hahahahaha! (We see the seal burst open as Diablo (Diablo) emerges from it. Zeus then shoots his lightning onto the ground as it begins to form a teleportation circle around Diablo.) Mankind will bow to the Gods again! (The circle fully forms as Diablo disappears.)

Zelda: No!

Zeus: Your fighting was all for nothing! (Kratos grabs onto Zeus' head and rips it off of his body. He then stands up and throws Zeus' head to the side.)

Kratos: What has my father done?

Raiden: He has released that beast upon Earthrealm. Mankind may be doomed.

Meat Boy: But we can stop it… right?

Raiden: I… I do not know… (The camera zooms out as we look upon the depths of Hell and slowly fade to black.)

End of Episode

Chapter 41: Interlude

(The episode begins in Zeke's laboratory. We see papers scattered around his desk as Zeke sits at his desk with his head in his hands. Charlotte then walks in and sees Zeke.)

Charlotte: Zeke? Is everything alright?

Zeke: They're… they're cutting our funding, Charlotte. (He takes his head out of his hands.) Everything we worked towards… destroyed.

Charlotte: No… they can't do this. (She runs over to Zeke.) This is everything you've been working towards. It's… it's not fair. (Zeke gets up.)

Zeke: I know. I don't even know what to do now. I mean, we were… we were this close to figuring it out. (Zeke walks over to a large machine.) It was so close to completion.

Charlotte: I know, Zeke. I'm sorry. (Charlotte hugs Zeke. Zeke gets lost in thought for a moment.)

Zeke: Unless… (Charlotte looks up at him.)

Charlotte: Unless?

Zeke: I… I can still finish this. There's not much more that I need. I can just finish it without anyone knowing.

Charlotte: Imagine what'll happen if you get caught. This could cost you everything.

Zeke: They've already taken this away from me. What else do I have to lose?

Charlotte: (Hesitant.) I don’t know about this…

Zeke: Charlotte, do you trust me?

Charlotte: I do, Zeke.

Zeke: Do you love me?

Charlotte: (Blushing.) You know I do.

Zeke: Then just give me a few days. I'll get the rest of what I need and can do my first test run. (Charlotte hesitates for a moment.)

Charlotte: Okay. Okay, just a few days. Just… just be careful, okay? (Zeke puts an arm around Charlotte.)

Zeke: Of course.

(We cut to the present day. Master Mind is in the shadows of a town at night. In his hands, he holds Majora’s Mask.)

Master Mind: I hold before you a key to unlimited power. This mask can unlock your full potential. (The camera turns to reveal Sephiroth.)

Sephiroth: And you wish to give it to me? Why?

Master Mind: I am no stranger to your endeavors, Sephiroth. I've heard stories of you, and I wish to help you. With this, you could send destruction to this entire world with a flick of your wrist. That's your destiny, not mine.

Sephiroth: And I should just take you at your word? (He holds up his sword.) I could kill you where you stand.

Master Mind: But you haven't. I sympathize with you, Sephiroth. I simply wish to help you. (He walks closer to Sephiroth.) After all, I wouldn't want you to be just a memory. (Sephiroth pauses for a moment. He then sheathes his sword and reaches out for Majora’s Mask. Master Mind hands it to him.) I promise you, this won't disappoint.

Sephiroth: For your sake, I hope you're right.

Master Mind: I always am. (Sephiroth studies the mask as the camera slowly pulls back. Everything fades to black.)

End of Episode

Chapter 42: Crash of the Titans

(The episode begins looking at a red barn on a farm. The camera pans over to see three Miltank (Pokemon) walking around in the grass.)

Miltank: Tank! (We see a farmer walk through the area. We cut again to see him approaching a group of five Chao (Sonic the Hedgehog). They're gathered around Chao eggs.)

Chao: Chao! Chao!

Farmer: Hm. (He crouches down to look at the eggs. As he does, Omochao (Sonic the Hedgehog) flies up to him.)

Omochao: The Chao eggs should be ready to hatch soon.

Farmer: Well then. (He stands up.) Billy! Get on over here! (We cut to Billy Hatcher crouched down and petting Cojiro (The Legend of Zelda). He looks towards where the farmer is yelling from.)

Billy: Huh? (Billy gets up and runs towards the farmer. We cut to Billy walking up to the farmer and Omochao.) Yes, sir?

Farmer: I want you to work with Omochao here to take care of these eggs for when they hatch. Got it? (Billy pumps his fist and jumps up.)

Billy: Yeah! (The farmer leaves. Billy turns to Omochao.) So, what do I need to do, Omochao?

Omochao: Well, Chao love fruit! We should grab some fruit for them to entice them to hatch.

Billy: I'll go grab some oranges. (Billy runs off. We cut to a different camera angle of the farm from the trees. We see what appears to be a homemade car made out of wood and wagon wheels with pigs (Angry Birds) jumping around on it.)

Pig: Snork hehehe. (The King Pig (Angry Birds) then jumps onto the car and takes out a pair of binoculars. We see his POV as he looks through them at the Chao eggs.)

King Pig: Hehe… (We cut back to King Pig as he licks his lips while looking through the binoculars. We cut back to Billy walking through the farm with oranges in his hands. We then hear Omochao scream.)

Omochao: Hey! Stop that!

Billy: Wha-?! (Billy drops the oranges as the camera pans over to see the pigs loading the Chao eggs into their makeshift car. The Chao cry as a pig hits Omochao away.)

Omochao: Aaah! (The pigs hop into the car and drive it away. Billy runs up to Omochao.) They stole the Chao eggs! (Billy gets a look of determination.)

Billy: Not for long! Come on! (Billy runs after the pigs as Omochao flies closely behind and they travel into the woods.)

(We cut into the woods as we see Ratchet, Clank, the Arbiter, Earthworm Jim, Yoshi, Agumon, and Regina walking through.)

Ratchet: We need to get back to civilization. Who knows what's changed since Clank and I have been gone.

Regina: We'll come across something eventually. I'm sure of it. (We hear the sound of something rumbling towards them. The Arbiter looks back. He then pushes everyone over to the side.)

Arbiter: Look out! (As they fall over, the pigs' car rumbles through with them snorting and laughing the whole time.)

Jim: Holy smoked ham! What was that? (They all get up. Billy and Omochao then rush past them.)

Agumon: Woah!

Yoshi: Yosh!

Billy: Come back! (Ratchet takes out his blaster.)

Ratchet: Looks like more trouble. (He turns to Clank.) Up for it, Clank?

Clank: As always, Ratchet.

Ratchet: (To the others.) Everyone else?

Jim: (Taking out his blaster.) Let’s get groovy!

(We cut Cortex's airship flying above the forest. We cut inside to see Crash, Aku-Aku, Professor Layton, Rouge, Kiryu, AiAi, and Dart in a storage room filled with crates.)

Aku-Aku: Cortex’s airship. Be careful. Who knows what traps Dr. Cortex has in store for us.

Rouge: Just another mad scientist to steal gems from. (A knocking sound is suddenly from inside one of the crates. We see Kiryu and Dart tense up.)

Kiryu: What was that? (Layton walks over to the crate that's making the noise.)

Layton: It seems that something is inside this crate and wants out.

Dart: Something friendly?

Layton: It's hard to say. (Crash walks over to the crate. Layton stands aside.) Go right ahead. (Crash spins into the crate as wood splinters everywhere. We see Glover where the crate once stood, now free.)

Glover: Thank you all for saving me. (The other heroes tower over him. Glover cowers a bit.) You’re all friendly, right?

Rouge: Depends on how you stand with the doctor. (Glover eases up a bit.)

Glover: I can't say that I'm too big of a fan. He and his monkey partner locked me up because they heard I was magic.

Dart: Magic, huh?

Glover: Yep! They were talking about finding some kind of magic jewel. I guess they thought I would come in handy. (Glover waves with his body. AiAi laughs.)

Layton: The crystal he stole from me. It must be more important than I thought.

Aku-Aku: That crystal was merely a shard of the Shadow Crystal. It was granted to us by the stars to capture Master Mind.

Rouge: And now that lunatic has it. (To herself.) And I thought Eggman was bad.

Kiryu: We'll take it back by force then. His reasoning for having it is clearly not in our best interest.

Glover: Do you guys mind if I tag along? (Glover floats up and opens the door with himself.) I have a bone to pick with this guy. (Crash nods.)

Rouge: Be our guest. (Crash leads the way through the airship as the others follow.)

(We cut back to Billy and Omochao as they run through the forest to the now-empty car that the pigs were driving.)

Omochao: Looks like those pigs flew the coop with those eggs.

Billy: (Looking around.) They couldn't have gone too far, right? (Ratchet's group walks up behind them.)

Ratchet: Need some help? (Billy and Omochao look behind them.)

Billy: Uh… yeah. Those pigs stole a bunch of our eggs. And now they've disappeared. (Regina walks forward and studies the ground. She notices broken twigs on the ground and a path through the bushes.)

Regina: Looks like they went this way. (Billy and Omochao rush forward as the others follow. They move through the bushes until they see a large wooden structure that the pigs are perched on. The eggs are on the ground behind the structure.)

Jim: An impenetrable swine wall. (Arbiter and Regina look at Jim, confused.)

Agumon: Their fort doesn't look too impressive.

Yoshi: Yoshi! (Billy suddenly gets an idea.)

Billy: If I had a giant egg, I'm positive I could knock that thing over. (Yoshi looks up into the trees which are growing apples. We cut to the apples as we see Yoshi's tongue snap them from the trees.)

Yoshi: Bum! (We cut back to Yoshi as he now has a large Yoshi egg beside him.)

Jim: Well, that was… disturbing. (Yoshi hands the egg over to Billy.)

Billy: Thanks.

Yoshi: Hup! (We cut to the pigs on their structure as they oink happily. We suddenly hear Billy's voice.)

Billy: Ha! (The camera pans to see Billy rolling the large Yoshi egg towards the structure. He then jumps into the air with the egg and throws it at the structure. It crashes through the structure as the pigs fly into the air before landing on the ground with a thud.)

King Pig: Errrmm… (Billy runs up to the Chao eggs.)

Billy: Haha! (The other heroes and Omochao walk up to Billy.)

(We cut back to Cortex's airship. Crash's team walks through until they reach the door to the control room.)

Dart: He must be in there. (Dart takes out his sword. Crash opens the door and jumps into the room with his fists raised.)

Crash: Yah! (We hear Cortex's voice.)

Cortex: Crash Bandicoot, we meet again. (The camera pans to see Cortex floating in the air with his jetpack. He tosses the Shadow Crystal up and down in his hand. He holds his laser at Crash in the other hand. The other heroes walk into the room.) Oh, I see you've found my magic glove too.

Glover: You…

Cortex: I've grown tired of this back and forth between us. Too many do-gooders in this day and age. Let's just compromise. You let me get this back to Master Mind and I won't kill you. How's that?

Kiryu: No deal.

AiAi: Eek eek!

Cortex: Suit yourself. (He points his laser at the various heroes.) Who first? (Dart suddenly charges forward and does a flying slash at Cortex. Cortex presses a button on his laser and teleports out of the way. He then shoots Dart to the ground.)

Dart: Agh! (AiAi then rolls forward and jumps at Cortex. Cortex teleports again and shoots AiAi.)

AiAi: Yah!

Cortex: You're making this too easy. (We cut to Rouge and Kiryu as they run towards Cortex. Rouge takes flight towards Cortex and does a spinning kick towards him. Cortex teleports away and shoots both of them. He then turns towards Crash who's looking around confused.) Crash, how I've waited for this moment.

Crash: Ooh? (Crash looks behind him and then back at Cortex. He points to himself.)

Cortex: Yes, you, you buffoon. (He points his laser at Crash.) I am going to enjoy this. (He shoots the laser at Crash. Crash spins the projectile back at Cortex.) Ah! (Cortex teleports away as the projectile crashes into the window and destroys it. We cut back to Cortex.) You idiot! I just repaired that! (We then cut to Glover as he shoots magic out of one of his fingers.)

Glover: Ha! (The magic hits the shard in Cortex's hand and turns the shard into a large bouncy ball.)

Cortex: Ah! (The ball bounces out of the window towards the forest below.) No no no! (Cortex flies after it.)

Glover: Follow the bouncing ball! (We see Dart transform into his Red-Eyed Dragoon form and takes flight out the window. AiAi follows as he uses his ball to glide out the window. Rouge then scoops up Glover.)

Rouge: We're gonna need some more of your magic. (She then takes flight out the window. Layton, Kiryu, Crash, and Aku-Aku remain.)

Kiryu: We need to get this thing to the ground.

Layton: I can take a crack at it. (He approaches the controls.) Let’s see what I can do.

(We cut to Billy talking to Omochao with Ratchet's group behind him. He hands the Chao eggs to Omochao.)

Billy: Take these back to the farm, Omochao. I need to see if these folks need my help.

Omochao: Roger that! (Omochao flies off with the eggs. Billy turns to the others.)

Billy: So you're looking for this Master Mind guy, huh?

Ratchet: You got that right.

Arbiter: We need to make it back to civilization. Can you help us?

Billy: I can take you back to the farm. We're not too far away from town.

Regina: We'd appreciate it.

Agumon: (Jumping up.) Hooray! (The bouncy ball then rolls towards them. Billy walks up to the ball.)

Billy: Huh? How'd this get here? (Billy looks up as the camera pans to see Cortex, Dart, AiAi, and Rouge with Glover flying towards them.)

Cortex: That ball belongs to me!

Dart: Don't let him get that ball!

Billy: Uh oh! (Billy grabs the ball and begins running while rolling it in front of him.)

Yoshi: Yoshi! (Yoshi runs after Billy.)

Ratchet: (To Clank.) Time to fly, buddy.

Clank: You got it, Ratchet. (Clank transforms into a jetpack as they take flight after Billy.)

Jim: (To the others.) C'mon, team! Let’s roll! (The others join the chase. (We cut to Billy as he rushes through the forest. It starts rolling too fast as Billy hops on top of it while it picks up speed.)

Billy: It’s going too faaaaaaaast! (Billy then hits a bump as he and the ball go flying.) Waaaaaah! (Billy falls back to the ground and lands on Yoshi.)

Yoshi: Hup!

Billy: Phew! Thanks. (We cut back to the ball flying through the air. Cortex flies towards it.)

Cortex: It’s mine! All mine! (We cut to Rouge and Glover as Glover shoots more magic at the ball. The magic turns it into a bowling ball as it plummets, causing Cortex to miss it.) No! (We see Dart quickly fly in and grab the ball. Cortex pulls out a remote control.) Looks like I'll need some help with this one. (We cut back to Dart.)

Dart: Gotcha! (The bowling ball begins to drag him down as he hits the branches of the trees. Dart hits a tree and the bowling ball goes flying.) Hurk! (We cut back to Rouge and Glover.)

Rouge: (To Glover.) We need some more magic, Glover.

Glover: On it. (Glover shoots more magic at the ball and turns it into a small, metal ball. We see AiAi glide in and snatch it.)

AiAi: Yahoo! (Cortex then teleports in front of AiAi and holds out his laser.)

Cortex: Not so fast, little monkey.

AiAi: Gah! (AiAi accidentally throws the ball into the air as he closes his Monkey Ball. He then drops down into the forest as Billy catches him.)

Billy: Don’t worry, little guy. I gotcha. (We cut to Rouge and Glover watching the ball fly through the air.)

Glover: Just one more shot of magic. (Glover shoots more magic at the ball and turns it back into a crystal shard just as Ratchet and Clank fly in. Ratchet grabs it.)

Ratchet: Got it! Huh? (Ratchet takes out his shard of the Shadow Crystal and compares the two.) Is this…

Cortex: Mine! (Cortex shoots Clank, causing Ratchet and Clank to plummet.)

Clank: I've been hit!

Ratchet: Woah! (Ratchet falls to the ground and drops both shards. Cortex lands and picks them both up.)

Cortex: Not just one, but two pieces of the Shadow Crystal! (Ratchet gets up and holds his gun out at Cortex.)

Ratchet: You can't have those. (Cortex aims at Ratchet with his own laser.)

Cortex: I've been dealing with that blasted bandicoot and his little friends for far too long. This ends here. (Billy, Yoshi, and AiAi then ride in. Then, Dart, Rouge, and Glover land. The Arbiter, Earthworm Jim, Agumon, and Regina then walk in, weapons ready.)

Ratchet: Looks like you're outnumbered.

Cortex: That may be so, but I have one last trick up my sleeve. (Suddenly, Mecha-Bandicoot flies in and lands behind Cortex. Cortex teleports inside. His voice blasts out on a speaker.) You put up a good fight, but this ends now. (We cut to our heroes gathered together as they look up at Mecha-Bandicoot.)

Ratchet: This looks bad.

Regina: Be ready for anything.

Dart: Don't stand down.

Agumon: Uh oh… (The Mecha-Bandicoot then readies missiles in its fingers.)

Cortex: I'm going to have a blast! Hahahaha! (Mecha-Bandicoot shoots a barrage of missiles at our heroes. They fly high into the air before dipping back down. Before they can hit, a bunch of wumpa fruit fly in and hit the missiles, making them explode.) Huh? (Cortex looks up to see his airship. Crash and Kiryu are hanging out of the broken window with Fruit Bazookas.)

Crash: Haha!

Kiryu: Starting the party without us?

Cortex: Urgh! Bandicoot! (Mecha-Bandicoot flies into the air.) Prepare to be destroyed by Dr. Neo Cortex! (Mecha-Bandicoot slashes his chainsaw arm at the heroes on the ground. Everyone dives out of the way. We cut to the Arbiter and Regina shooting at Mecha-Bandicoot.)

Arbiter: Rah! (We then see Agumon and Dart run up to Mecha-Bandicoot.)

Agumon: Pepper Breath! (Agumon shoots fire out of his mouth at Mecha-Bandicoot. Dart stabs his sword into the ground as fire flows out and into Mecha-Bandicoot. Mecha-Bandicoot then slaps the two of them away.)

Dart: Ah! (We then cut to Yoshi tossing an egg to Billy. The two of them then throw their eggs at Mecha-Bandicoot.)

Yoshi: Ha! (The eggs hit Mecha-Bandicoot's head.)

Cortex: You really think eggs are gonna work against me? (Mecha-Bandicoot shoots more missiles out. We cut to Ratchet and Jim shooting at the missiles.)

Jim: Wee doggie! (The missiles explode around them. We cut to Layton steering the airship as Crash and Kiryu continue shooting out the window. Kiryu looks back at Layton.)

Kiryu: Professor, we need you to get us closer.

Layton: Will do, old boy. (To himself.) I think I'm getting the hang of this. (We see the airship fly closer to Mecha-Bandicoot. We then cut to Rouge flying through the air as she throws a bomb at Mecha-Bandicoot.)

Rouge: How about this? (The bomb explodes and sends Mecha-Bandicoot back a bit. It retaliates by hitting Rouge with its hand.) Ah! (Rouge flies through the air and hits the ground hard.)

Glover: No! (Glover runs over to her.) Are you okay? (Rouge coughs.)

Rouge: I'll heal. (Glover looks back at Mecha-Bandicoot as it smashes Jim and the Arbiter with its foot.)

Jim: Pain! (Mecha-Bandicoot lifts its foot to see Jim and Arbiter, weak in the dirt, gasping for breath.)

Arbiter: Ugh… (We then cut to Agumon and Regina. Regina shoots at Mecha-Bandicoot.)

Agumon: Spitfire Blast! (Agumon shoots more fire at Mecha-Bandicoot. Dart flies over and joins them.)

Cortex: There’s no point in trying to fight me. (Mecha-Bandicoot shoots a missile that hits the ground next to them. Agumon, Regina, and Dart fly back. Glover then looks over to see Billy rolling AiAi around while dodging attacks from Mecha-Bandicoot.)

Billy: Heeeeeelp! (Glover runs over to them.)

Glover: Do you wanna do some magic? (Billy and AiAi look at each other confused. We cut to Mecha-Bandicoot shooting more missiles into the sky.)

Cortex: Surrender now to Dr. Cortex! (We see a missile hit the side of Cortex's airship as Crash and Kiryu jostle around, losing grip slightly.)

Kiryu: Keep it steady, professor.

Layton: She took a big hit. (We cut back to Mecha-Bandicoot.)

Cortex: All hail Cortex!

Billy: Hey, bolt brain! (The camera pans to see Billy and AiAi. Billy starts rolling AiAi towards Mecha-Bandicoot and throws him towards its chest.) Now! (We cut to Glover as he shoots magic at AiAi. The ball around him begins forming into a large boulder. The boulder crashes through the chest of Mecha-Bandicoot. The machine drops to the ground. The head opens up as Cortex scurries out with both shards of the Shadow Crystal. He's stopped by Ratchet holding his OmniWrench.)

Ratchet: Not so fast! (To Clank.) What should we do with this guy, Clank?

Clank: I think a whack on the head is a good start.

Cortex: Another humiliating defeat… (He throws his laser onto the ground.) Just get it over with already. (Ratchet hits Cortex in the head with his OmniWrench as the screen goes dark. We get sight again as we see Cortex's airship landing. AiAi's ball is also back to normal. Crash, Aku-Aku, Layton, and Kiryu walk out to greet the others.)

Kiryu: What happened to the scientist?

Clank: He has been taken care of. (We cut to Cortex unconscious and tied to a tree. We then cut to Crash and Aku-Aku approaching Ratchet and Clank. Ratchet is holding the Shadow Crystal shards.)

Aku-Aku: You look… familiar. Those are shards of the Shadow Crystal. With those, we may stand a chance against Master Mind.

Ratchet: So you're looking for him too. Mind if we grab a ride with you? (Crash smiles. We cut to Cortex's airship flying over the forest as the screen fades to black.)

End of Episode

Chapter 43: Roar of the Earth

(The episode begins looking at the Death Egg in outer space. We cut inside to see Dr. Nefarious being escorted through by two Space Pirates.)

Nefarious: To think, they called me insane. We'll see who's insane when I've taken over the planet with these pirates as my subordinates. (They reach a door that opens automatically for them.)

Space Pirate #1: This way. (They lead Dr. Nefarious into the room.)

Nefarious: (Looking around.) So, where is this leader of yours? (Nefarious then looks towards the camera and his jaw drops. The camera cuts to see Mother Brain in her large container, looking at Nefarious.) Woah, mama! (We cut back to Nefarious and the Space Pirates.)

Space Pirate #1: This is our leader. She is Mother Brain.

Nefarious: (Bowing.) Pleasure to meet you, ma'am. (Mother Brain continues to stare at him.)

Space Pirate #2: She wishes for your assistance in world domination. We will send out a fleet at once.

Nefarious: (Grinning wickedly.) Perfect. And I know just where we should hit first. (He slams his fist into his hand.) It’s payback time. (We cut to the outside of the Death Egg. Multiple Space Pirate ATCs flood out of it. The camera continues to pull back as we see the Normandy. We cut inside to see Master Chief, Commander Shepard, Commander Keen, Abe, and Emmett Graves watching the Death Egg from the control room. Keen is at the controls.)

Keen: What are those things?

Master Chief: I've been to that space station before. I don't remember seeing those ships anywhere.

Emmett: They're all headed towards that planet.

Master Chief: Cortana, do you read?

Cortana: Loud and clear, Chief. I'm not getting the same readings from the last time we were here. Either way, it doesn’t look good.

Master Chief: (To the group.) We need to intervene.

Abe: Oh no…

Shepard: (To Keen.) Follow those ships, kid.

Keen: (Sighs.) Earth isn't how I remember it. (We cut to see the Normandy heading towards Earth.)

(We cut to a room with a large screen on one of its walls. The screen shows multiple glowing dots heading into the atmosphere. The camera pans to see Sergeant Johnson (Halo) watching the screen and smoking a cigar. Multiple people are seen behind him, looking at computer screens and walking around in a hurry. Johnson pulls the cigar from his mouth.)

Johnson: Multiple unidentified objects heading towards Earth. (An informant comes up behind Johnson.)

Informant: Likeliness that they're alien?

Johnson: No doubt about it. (He turns to the informant.) Is Lieutenant Hale on his way? (We hear a door open.)

Informant: I believe that's him, sir. (The camera pans to see Nathan Hale walking towards Johnson.)

Hale: Sergeant Johnson, sir. I am Lieutenant Nathan Hale.

Johnson: A pleasure to meet you, Lieutenant. As the only other soldier here besides myself to have dealt with alien warfare, I have to ask you to take a trip to take care of a new problem we're having.

Hale: What’s the situation? (Johnson gestures towards the screen.)

Johnson: An alien invasion, Lieutenant. A group of ships that seem to be headed towards northern Canada. We'll be sending you in via chopper.

Hale: I'll handle it.

Johnson: Good luck out there, Lieutenant. Report in once you land. (Hale walks off. We cut to a helicopter flying through the air as it disappears into the horizon.)

(We cut to a snowy mountain. Snow falls heavily as Snake, Sam Fisher, and Joanna Dark trudge through. Sam is wearing his multi-vision goggles.)

Joanna: The snow's getting worse, boys. (She shivers.) Sam, how much longer until we're back in town?

Sam: We should've gotten there by now.

Snake: Fisher, where are you taking us?

Sam: There’s a town around here somewhere. I just can't… d*mnit. We're close. I know that much. (Joanna starts to slow down.)

Joanna: My suit doesn't have the same heating that you two have. (Snake puts an arm around her and helps her walk.)

Snake: (To Sam.) I'll help Dark. You find the town.

Sam: On it, Snake. (We watch Snake help Joanna as a group of four Topi (Ice Climber) scurry out of the snow. They run towards Joanna as an arrow suddenly flies into the head of one, killing it. Snake and Joanna turn around.)

Snake: Huh? (Three more arrows fly through and kill the remaining Topis. (Sam takes out his gun and looks around.)

Sam: Is g*ddamn Robin Hood somewhere around here? (Joanna points further up the mountain.)

Joanna: Up there! (The camera pans up to see a figure on horseback holding a bow. We cut back to Snake and Sam pointing their guns at it. We see the horse approach our heroes. We soon see that the figure is Wander riding Agro (Shadow of the Colossus). Wander gets off Agro and approaches the others.)

Wander: Are you lost?

Sam: Who are you?

Wander: You can put your weapon down. I will not hurt you. (Snake and Sam lower their guns.) I am Wander. (He strokes Agro's mane.) This is Agro. (He gestures to Joanna.) Your friend, is she okay?

Snake: We've been in the cold for too long. We're trying to find town.

Wander: I know of the town you're speaking of. (He mounts Agro.) I will lead you there. (Snake helps Joanna onto Agro as they all set off.)

(We cut to the tavern from Ch4E4. Pierce (Saints Row) and Eric Simmons (Cursed Mountain) are seen drinking at a couple tables. The camera pans over to the bar as we see Blasto, Prince, Aloy, Rex, and Pyra talking to the bartender.)

Bartender: You're saying aliens are coming here? Like to town?

Aloy: We don't know, but it's a good guess.

Bartender: I guess I shouldn’t be too surprised. First you guys show up, and now aliens are invading.

Blasto: The difference is that we didn't mean to invade your planet.

Bartender: Yeah. Seriously though, I really do like you all even if you are a bit odd. (Pyra puts Prince on her head and smiles.)

Pyra: Thank you.

Bartender: So what's your plan?

Rex: We'll fight off whatever comes here like we did with the first guy. (Blasto pulls out his blaster.)

Blasto: They'll be crying to their mama before they can lay their slimy, alien hands on this place. (The bartender gives a strained smile before turning to Aloy.)

Bartender: Is he serious?

Aloy: We won't let anything happen. I promise. (The door suddenly bursts open as Snake, Sam, Joanna, and Wander rush in. Wander brings Joanna to a fireplace inside as Snake and Sam go to the bar.)

Bartender: Sam?

Sam: Topher, good to see you again.

Topher: I see you've found a few friends.

Sam: That shadow you told me about led me down quite the rabbit hole. Some kind of alien. (The other heroes perk up at this.)

Topher: Really? I have some friends who might be interested in that. (Topher walks away. Snake and Sam look at the others.)

Blasto: Tell us more about these aliens.

(The scene shifts to Hale's helicopter flying through the mountains. We see him standing on the edge, looking down at the area below. He turns his head and speaks to the pilot.)

Hale: This our alien battleground? (The pilot shoots him a thumbs up.)

Pilot: Yes sir, Lieutenant. (Hale pulls out his Bullseye.)

Hale: Let’s get to work. (We see the helicopter land a little ways from the town, which is in the background. Hale jumps out of the helicopter and begins trudging through the snow. To the pilot.) Let the Sergeant know that we made it safely.

Pilot: Yes, Lieutenant. (Hale continues forward as the helicopter suddenly explodes. Hale is sent flying. The helicopter blade sticks into the ground a few feet from his head.)

Hale: Sh*t! (Hale gets up to see the helicopter wreckage on fire. A large group of Space Pirates run towards it. One of them spots Hale and points at him.)

Space Pirate: A human! (They all begin shooting at him. We cut to Hale as he quickly gets up to avoid the blasts. He jumps behind a pile of snow and readies his gun.)

Hale: This is all going to Hell. (He peeks out from behind the pile of snow and begins shooting. We see a few Space Pirates get shot in the head and chest as they fall to the ground. The others continue their fire as Hale takes a shot to the shoulder.) Agh! F*ck! (He holds his shoulder.)

(We cut back to the tavern as Snake and Sam continue to talk to Aloy’s group.)

Prince: So Master Mind has aliens working for him to invade Earth?

Snake: Maybe. Whoever you dealt with may be working independently.

Rex: But they're still dangerous. We cannot risk this planet getting into their hands.

Sam: We'll try to help you kids out, but we have other problems that require our attention. (We pan over to Joanna and Wander sitting by the fire.)

Wander: (To Joanna.) You’re lucky I found you when I did. Any longer in that snow and you would’ve been too far gone. (Joanna looks up at him and smiles.)

Joanna: I appreciate the help. (The wall suddenly explodes, sending Joanna and Wander back. The heroes at the bar quickly perk up as Snake, Sam, and Blasto draw their guns.)

Blasto: Never a dull moment. (Soldier Bots (Ratchet & Clank) and Space Pirates quickly all quickly file in and begin shooting. We cut to Joanna crawling away from the enemies as a soldier bot comes up behind her and points its gun at her.)

Soldier Bot: Do not resist. (Wander then runs up with a flaming log from the destroyed fireplace and slams it into its head, destroying it.)

Wander: Hah! (We then cut back to Snake, Sam, and Blasto as Snake flips a table to give them cover.)

Snake: Get down! (The three of them strategically shoot the enemies from behind the table. We then cut to a group of Soldier Bots and Space Pirates shooting as a spear flies through the torso of a space pirate, pinning it to the ground. The camera spins around to see Aloy with Rex, Pyra, and Prince behind her. Rex unsheathes his sword and jumps into the frey.)

Rex: C’mon, Pyra!

Pyra: Right behind you! (Pyra’s sword ignites as she throws it into a trio of Soldier Bots, slicing them in half.)

(We cut back to Hale as he shoots from behind the large pile of snow with his bloodied arm. The camera pans to see Soldier Bots and Space Pirates approaching him. He grabs his arm and takes cover.)

Hale: Godd*mn it… (A loud noise is suddenly heard from above as Hale looks up.) Huh? (The camera pans up to see the Normandy arrive on the scene. A hatch opens up as Emmett jumps out and lands in the middle of a group of enemies, creating a shockwave that sends them flying.)

Emmett: Hah! (We cut to the hatch to see Shepard with a sniper rifle, carefully aiming and shooting. Master Chief then jumps out of the hatch as the camera follows him. He takes out his plasma sword and plunges it through a space pirate. He then takes out his assault rifle to help Emmett. We go back to Hale as he looks at the scene before him.)

Hale: Today must be my lucky day. (He aims his Bullseye and continues to shoot. We go back to Master Chief as he shoots the last Space Pirate.)

Master Chief: That’s all of them for now. (He uses his helmet’s communicator.) Keen, you’re safe to land.

Keen: On it, Chief!

Emmett: Hang on, Chief. (He gestures to Hale’s snow pile.) We’re not alone here. (We see Hale slowly get up, pointing his gun away from Emmett and Master Chief.)

Hale: Are you with Earth or with them? (Emmett and Master Chief slowly approach him.)

Emmett: We’re not with the aliens, that’s for d*mn sure. (Hale holsters his weapon.)

Hale: I’m Lieutenant Nathan Hale. I was sent here to stop an alien invasion. (Master Chief notices his wound.)

Master Chief: You’re injured.

Hale: Injured, but not dead. (He looks over at the destroyed helicopter.) Counting my lucky stars on this one. The camera pans to see Shepard, Keen, and Abe approaching from the landed Normandy.)

Master Chief: We’ll get you patched up fast. Who knows how much time we have. (Cortana’s voice is then heard.)

Cortana: Chief, more movement. Something big is coming. (Master Chief looks up to see a large object flying through the air.)

Master Chief: (To everyone.) Back to the ship. We need to move. (Master Chief runs towards the Normandy as everyone else follows.)

(We cut back to the tavern to see Soldier Bot and Space Pirate corpses littering the ground along with a few human corpses. We see Aloy help the bartender up from behind the bar.)

Aloy: Are you okay?

Bartender: I’m not hurt if that’s what you’re asking. (We go to Snake talking to the others.)

Snake: What were those things?

Blasto: Aliens, and real nasty ones at that.

Rex: This must be a part of their second attack.

Sam: Second attack?

Pyra: We fought them before. This time seemed a lot easier though.

Joanna: These must be the grunts of the operation. Whoever is in charge can’t be too far behind. (A large thud is heard from outside. All of the heroes rush out to see what’s going on. As they leave through the bar’s hole in the wall, they all look visually scared and in awe. We cut to see the Biobliterator looming over the town, with Mother Brain held in one of its hands. Dr. Nefarious’ voice echoes out from it.)

Nefarious: Attention, squishies! I am Dr. Nefarious, your new ruler! Do not be alarmed. (We see townsfolk and Agro running through town screaming. Nefarious sighs.) Or run around like idiots. I suggest you submit to us now. (He sets Mother Brain on the ground as she begins to transform into her bipedal form. She roars as she surveys the landscape.) Those who fight back will be met with immediate extermination from myself and Mother Brain. Any questions? (A Nikita missile suddenly flies into the head of the Biobliterator. We cut to see Snake holding his missile launcher.) Very well then. Prepare to face our wrath! (We cut to Mother Brain as she roars and charges towards the heroes. She shoots a rainbow beam from her eye as the group of heroes run out of the way. Aloy and Joanna begin shooting at it with their weapons.)

Joanna: Keep that thing on us! Don’t let it hurt the civilians! (Aloy fires another arrow.)

Aloy: Understood. (Mother Brains roars and charges forward. Joanna pushes Aloy out of its path. Mother Brain turns around and looks back at them as a shot goes into her eye. She roars as the camera pans over to Blasto.)

Blasto: Bring it on, ya big ugly! (We cut to Sam, Rex, Pyra, and Prince as they look over the destruction around them.)

Rex: How are we supposed to take that machine down? (More ships begin to touch down around them as Soldier Bots and Space Pirates file out. Sam unholsters his gun.)

Sam: Get the little ones first. (He begins to shoot at them as Rex charges forward. We see him slash a Soldier Bot back into the snow.)

Pyra: (To Prince.) Let’s do this! (She starts conjuring a ball of fire in her hands as a blast suddenly hits her in the chest, causing her to fall back and drop both the ball of fire and Prince.) Ah! (Rex hears this and turns around.)

Rex: Pyra! (He runs towards her and kneels down to help her.) Pyra, are you okay?

Pyra: I’m okay, Rex. (Prince stands up and looks at Pyra’s ball of fire. We see an idea form in his head.)

Prince: Make a star for dad… (We cut to Snake and Wander as they run through the area, looking up at the Biobliterator. Nefarious’ laughs are heard echoing through the place.)

Snake: This thing is like Metal Gear Rex times ten.

Wander: It’s gotta have a weak point, right?

Snake: With a machine like this, the only way to stop it is to get rid of its pilot. (Wander runs forward and jumps on the Biobliterator’s foot. He starts climbing up.) Kid, what are you doing?

Wander: If I reach the top, I can get to the pilot.

Snake: One wrong move and you’ll fall.

Wander: (Still climbing.) Then I won’t fall. (Snake sighs and readies his missile launcher.)

Snake: Then I’ll cover you. (We cut back to Blasto as Mother Brain kicks him into a building. He staggers to his feet.)

Blasto: Feisty thing, aren’t you? (Mother Brain roars as a laser shot makes contact with her head. The camera pans to see Joanna using the laser on her wrist as Aloy lobs an acid bomb with her acid bomb launcher.)

Aloy: Yah! (The acid bomb makes contact with Mother Brain’s torso as it bubbles and sizzles. She roars and fires a rainbow laser at Joanna and Aloy. This knocks them onto the ground. We then go to Sam, Rex, and Pyra as they fight off incoming enemies.)

Pyra: (Looking around.) Where’s Prince? (Rex slices into another Soldier Bot.)

Rex: D*mn! We need to find him! (Sam looks up as more ships fly overhead.)

Sam: Sh*t, here comes more. (A rocket then hits the ship as it explodes.) Huh? (Sam looks at where the rocket came from to see the Normandy flying in. Master Chief is on top of it holding a rocket launcher.)

Master Chief: Direct hit. (The Biobliterator looks at the Normandy.)

Nefarious: You again! Can’t I catch a break?! (The Biobliterator raises an arm and shoots missiles at the Normandy.) I’m not losing to you squishies again! (The missiles soar towards the Normandy before being intercepted by Nikita missiles. The camera pans down to see Snake shooting more to help the Normandy.)

Snake: Nice try. (The Normandy then soars closer to the ground as Emmett and Hale jump out of it, tucking and rolling into the battlefield, with Hale’s arm now being bandaged. They both begin shooting as another enemy ship drops behind them. Emmett points at the ship.)

Emmett: Drop it there, Cutter! (A structure drops from the sky and lands on the ship, causing it and everything around it to explode. Hale then runs over to Mother Brain and throws a hedgehog grenade.)

Hale: Get down! (It explodes as spikes soar into Mother Brain. She cries out in pain. Mother Brain then charges towards Hale as he jumps for cover behind a building. He breathes heavily before noticing Prince and his ball of fire there as well.) Are you with us? (Prince gestures to the fire.)

Prince: I need more fire to grow my star. (Hale gets up.)

Hale: I can help with that. Let’s go! (Hale runs off as Prince follows while rolling the fire. We cut back to the open hatch of the Normandy as we see Shepard surveying the battle through it. More missiles are sent towards them but are intercepted thanks to Snake and Master Chief. Shepard then notices Wander climbing on the Biobliterator’s torso.)

Shepard: Someone’s climbing that thing. (Abe runs over to look for himself.)

Abe: That looks scary…

Shepard: I’m going to help. (He steps back slightly before running and jumping out of the ship. We see him grab onto the torso of the Biobliterator and start climbing. We then go back to Abe.)

Abe: Good luck, Commander. (The sound of things landing on top of the ship are then heard as Abe yells.) Wah!

Keen: Abe! (Abe runs into the cockpit to Keen.) Something’s landed on the ship! (We cut to Master Chief firing at Soldier Bots and Space Pirates that landed on the ship with his assault rifle. A Space Pirate and three Soldier Bots crash through the cockpit window and point their weapons at Keen and Abe.)

Soldier Bot: Surrender to Nefarious! (Abe backs up to the wall where he begins chanting.) Stop that at once! (The Space Pirate then perks up and aims his weapon at the Soldier Bot.) What? (It fires at the three robots, destroying them. Keen then raises his blaster and fires it at the Space Pirate, killing it.)

Keen: (To Abe.) Nice work, soldier! (Abe smiles at that. We cut to Emmett and Sam firing at enemies with their back to each other. We then go to Rex and Pyra running towards a landed ship.)

Rex: Now, Pyra! (Pyra jumps through the air and destroys three Soldier Bots with a slash of her sword. We then go to Prince and Hale as they run towards a gas station.)

Hale: You want fire? (He grabs and unpins a grenade.) Here’s your fire, little guy. (He throws the grenade at the gas station as it explodes. Fire surrounds the area.)

Prince: Thank you, mister! (Prince rolls the fireball towards the destroyed gas station. He starts collecting the fire as the ball gets bigger and bigger, soon growing as big as Mother Brain.) Now the star is ready!

Hale: Let’s put it to good use! (We cut to Mother Brain as she stomps the ground, causing Joanna, Blasto, and Aloy to fall over. She roars at them.)

Joanna: What kind of alien is this? (Light then begins to flood the area. Aloy notices something and gestures to the others.)

Aloy: Look! (Prince runs in while rolling the fireball. He rolls it into Mother Brain as she screams out in pain while bursting into flames. The fireball grows smaller until there’s nothing left but ash. Prince and Hale then approach the others as Hale helps them up.)

Prince: I did it!

Hale: That’s one down. (He looks up at the Biobliterator.) One to go. (We cut to Wander as he reaches the top of the Biobliterator. He tries to cut into it with his sword, but the glass is too tough.)

Wander: No! Not now! (Shepard then climbs up next to him as he readies his Omni-blade.)

Shepard: Need a hand? (He starts cutting into the head of the Biobliterator until he creates a hole big enough for them to fit through. Shepard then readies his rifle.) Come on. Let’s finish this. (Shepard and Wander drop into the Biobliterator’s cockpit as Dr. Nefarious turns to meet them.)

Nefarious: What?! How did you get up here?!

Shepard: Your reign of terror ends now. I suggest you surrender peacefully.

Nefarious: Fine. You caught me fair and square. (He slowly inches backwards and grabs a blaster.) Guess I’ll just give up. (He smiles wickedly and points his blaster at Shepard.) Sike! (He shoots at Shepard as he falls to the ground. He shoots at Wander next, but he dives out of the way and grabs his bow. He shoots an arrow right into Nefarious’ brain. Nefarious’ robotic jaw goes slack as he falls back onto the control panel. The room goes red as a robotic voice rings out.)

Voice: Self-destruct activated. (Wander helps Shepard up.)

Wander: We need to go! (Wander jumps back up through the hole and heaves Shepard up with him. The bottom of the Biobliterator starts to explode as we cut to Snake yelling to the others.)

Snake: Everyone! Run! (We go back to Shepard and Wander as they stagger on top of the Biobliterator.)

Wander: We’ll never climb down in time!

Shepard: We’ll have to jump! (The Biobliterator rocks back and forth as the duo jump off. They begin to plummet to Earth when they are suddenly grabbed by Master Chief wearing his jetpack.) Chief!

Master Chief: We’re not losing anymore men. (We see Master Chief and the Normandy fly away from the explosion as the Biobliterator crumbles.)

(We cut to later as the heroes meet in front of the Normandy. Snake and Master Chief are in the center of it. Wander is seen with Agro and the bartender before turning back and walking towards the group.)

Snake: Looks like we have a common enemy. (Master Chief nods.)

Master Chief: We don’t have much time left.

Joanna: Take us with you then. (Master Chief looks at Shepard.)

Master Chief: Do we have enough room? (Shepard looks over the large amount of heroes.)

Shepard: We’re going to need as much help as we can get. (Keen runs towards the Normandy.)

Keen: I’ll start the ship!

Blasto: Looks like our voyage is coming to a close. (Hale starts towards the Normandy.)

Hale: No turning back now. (The heroes start towards the Normandy. We then cut to the Normandy flying through the air as the screen fades to black.)

End of Episode

Chapter 44: Mortal Kombat

(The episode begins looking at Shao Kahn from the end of Ch5E4 in the middle of the city at night. He raises his hand and clenches it into a fist.)

Shao Kahn: Come to me, Ermac. (Ermac (Mortal Kombat) materializes behind him and slowly floats towards him.)

Ermac: What is your command, Shao Kahn? (Shao Kahn turns to face him.)

Shao Kahn: Our allegiance with Master Mind has been terminated. Earthrealm will instead be taken by the forces of Outworld. Ready the army, we shall attack in the morning.

Ermac: It shall be done. (Ermac teleports away as Shao Kahn sets off through the city. The camera cuts to see a mysterious figure watching Shao Kahn from the rooftops.)

???: Outworld, huh? (The figure steps out of the light and reveals herself to be Morrigan Aensland. She puts a finger to her mouth as she continues to study him.) Well, we can’t have that, can we? (She takes flight.) It seems I’m lacking an army of my own however. No matter, there must be someone around here who can put up a fight. (She flies away into the night.)

(The scene cuts to the next morning. The camera follows Jin Kazama as he walks down the street. He passes Marcus Holloway (Watch Dogs) who stares at Jin as he passes. He also walks past Alyx Vance (Half-Life) who leans against a wall as Jin continues walking. Jin goes past a building with an open door as he suddenly hears a voice.)

???: In a hurry, grandson? (Jin quickly turns around to look for the source of the voice, but sees no one. He slowly walks towards the open door and steps inside to see a deserted and desolate inside with overturned tables and trash scattered everywhere.)

Jin: (Whispers.) Grandfather…?

???: In the flesh. (Heihachi walks out from the shadows and crosses his arms.) Or perhaps not.

Jin: Perhaps not?

Heihachi: I am not of the living world anymore. My life was stolen from me by the one they call Master Mind. And that is why I have come to you, Jin.

Jin: And you wish for me to kill him. (Heihachi nods.)

Heihachi: He first attacked our world when I was a young man. If I had intervened back then, in my youth, then he would be no problem to us today. Now that burden falls to you.

Jin: I will avenge you, grandfather. Where do I find this Master Mind?

Heihachi: He is a being made of shadow, but he will make himself known. Force may not be enough to kill him. Long ago, a gift from the stars sealed him away, the Shadow Crystal.

Jin: So I must defeat him and seal him away again.

Heihachi: A challenge to be sure, but you are a Mishima. A Mishima trained by me. Do not let my death be in vain. (Jin looks back through the open door.)

Jin: Master Mind will die by my ha- (He turns back to see Heihachi has disappeared.) Goodbye, grandfather. (Jin slowly exits.)

(We cut to the docks near the city. A Mantine (Pokemon) peaks his head out of the water.)

Mantine: Mantine! (He quickly dives back into the water as the camera pans up to see Rick, Jimmy, Wonder Red, Carmelita, and Joker gathered by the water.)

Carmelita: (To Joker.) So that crystal is part of something bigger that-

Joker: Trapped a being from another world within its confines for decades. He must’ve escaped and sent us here.

Wonder Red: (Clenching his fist.) He’s been trapped once. We can trap him again.

Joker: Not without the rest of the Shadow Crystal.

Rick: How do we find the rest?

Joker: Dumb luck. (He studies the shard in his hand.) Finding this piece was hard enough. Who knows where the other parts landed. (Carmelita sets off towards the city.)

Carmelita: Let’s start looking then.

Jimmy: How the hell are we supposed to find a bunch of shards scattered around the world? (Carmelita stops.)

Carmelita: We don’t have much of a choice. Either we find them or we’re stuck forever. (Rick looks down at his hands.)

Rick: I don’t know if I can… well… (He looks back up at the others.) I’ll just slow you guys down with unwanted trouble. (Carmelita walks over to Rick and puts a hand on his.)

Carmelita: Rick, honey, look at us. With or without you, we aren’t exactly the most conventional group. You fit in just fine with us.

Rick: Thanks.

Terror Mask: Of course the talking fox wouldn’t care. (Carmelita begins walking away again.)

Carmelita: Come on. We need to get a move on. (The others follow her.)

(We cut to Ryu, Jago, Sukapon, Kao, Mac, and Terry. They’re looking over the destruction caused by their previous battle with Shao Kahn, standing outside of the now-destroyed arena building. Police officers surround the building, with some going inside.)

Kao: I sure am glad you lot stepped in to help.

Ryu: Me too. Master Mind’s men seem to be everywhere.

Mac: I hope Shao Kahn is the worst of them.

???: Oh, he’s bad alright. (The heroes look behind them to see Morrigan flying over to them. She lands right next to him.) So bad that I don’t think he’s done with you yet.

Jago: And you are?

Morrigan: My friends call me Morrigan, but you can call me anytime. (She winks at him.) Actually, most of you boys look like you can show me a good time.

Terry: (To Jago.) She seems like the excited type.

Morrigan: I have to be excited, dear. I’m a succubus, excitement is my life force. (Ryu walks between Morrigan and the others protectively.)

Ryu: A demon?

Morrigan: A demon on your side, handsome, who wants to help you take care of Shao Kahn.

Kao: He’s alive? (Sukapon beeps.)

Morrigan: Sadly, yes. Not only that, but he has an army with him straight from Outworld. Royalty like myself wouldn’t be caught dead there, so I’m sure you wouldn’t want this place to succumb to it. Am I right?

Ryu: Where is he?

Morrigan: Preparing to attack, no doubt. I overheard him talking to one of his minions that they would attack today. (She floats in midair while checking her nails.) I knew that even as strong as I am, I’m no match for an army. That’s why I’m hoping we can help each other out.

Jago: We? (Morrigan looks back at the others.)

Morrigan: You want to stop Shao Kahn, and I need excitement to stay alive. And this place is starting to grow on me. I’d hate to see it waste away to Outworld forces. (She extends her hand to Ryu.) Whaddya say, big guy? Team? (Ryu shakes her hand.)

Ryu: Just don’t try anything, succubus. (Morrigan lands on her feet.)

Morrigan: Please, by the time we’ve killed Kahn, you all will be fighting over me like a pack of stray dogs over spoiled meat. (She ends the handshake and begins walking away.) Come, we have a warlord to stop.

Kao: (To Terry.) What’s a succubus?

Terry: I’ll tell you later, kid. (The other heroes start following Morrigan.)

(We cut once again to a different part of the city near the water. Chuck, Beat, Amy, Amigo, and Tidus walk near the water as Amy holds her Shadow Crystal shard in her hands. Amy sighs.)

Amy: Still no sign of Sonic. Or any of my other friends for that matter.

Amigo: Don’t worry, amiga. Maybe our luck will begin to turn.

Beat: I wouldn’t hold my breath. (As they walk past a building, we see a pair of piercing yellow eyes on top of it. We go to the POV of this mystery character as he stares at the Shadow Crystal Shard. We then watch as the figure leaps from the building and lands in front of our heroes, revealing himself to be Kintaro (Mortal Kombat).)

Amy: Ah!

Tidus: Woah!

Kintaro: Give me the Shadow Crystal shard at once.

Amy: No way, you big bully! This belongs to me!

Chuck: Careful, Amy. I don’t think we should anger this thing. (Kintaro clenches his fists while growling.)

Kintaro: I won’t ask again, little girl.

Amy: Little girl?! Listen meathead, the gem is mine! Now scram! (Kintaro grabs her by her dress and throws her across the street as she screams and drops the shard. People begin to scream and run as Amy tries to stand up.) Ow…

Beat: Amy! (Beat rollerblades towards Amy as Kintaro walks towards where the shard landed. He leans down to pick it up.)

Chuck: Hey! (Chuck slams a bat covered in nails into Kintaro’s side. Kintaro yells out in pain as he slams into Chuck with his arm, sending him backwards onto the ground. We cut to see Carmelita’s group walking through the same area. Wonder Red notices the fight and points it out to the others.)

Wonder Red: Look! (The camera pans to see Kintaro growling at Amigo and Tidus as Tidus stands between Kintaro and Amigo with his sword. The Shadow Crystal shard remains on the ground.)

Joker: That thing has part of the Shadow Crystal!

Rick: We have to help them! (Rick runs towards the battle. We cut to Tidus holding his sword towards Kintaro.)

Tidus: Stay away from us! (Kintaro breathes fire as Tidus’ vest and Amigo’s hat catch fire.) Ah! (Tidus stumbles back into the water behind him as Amigo runs around while flailing his arms. He then jumps into the water himself.)

Kintaro: You stood no chance against Shao Kahn’s army. (He turns back towards the shard as Rick jumps in front of him.)

Rick: Pick on someone your own size! (He slams three punches into Kintaro's face. As he throws the fourth, Kintaro catches it with one of his bottom hands.) Huh? (He throws another punch, but Kintaro catches it with his other bottom hand. Kintaro then punches Rick in the head with his top hands and sends him sprawling across the ground.)

Terror Mask: Seriously, Rick… (We cut to Carmelita and Joker running up behind Kintaro as they draw their firearms and start shooting.)

Joker: Haha! (Kintaro jumps over to them as he punches Joker away. He then turns to Carmelita and kicks her to the ground. Wonder Red then jumps into action.)

Wonder Red: Stay back, monster! (He uses his Unite Hand to punch Kintaro onto the ground. He growls as he gets up and grabs a manhole cover which he chucks at Wonder Red. We see it fly towards him before Beat skates in and pushes him out of the way.)

Beat: Look out! (We then see Jimmy come up behind Kintaro and slam his skateboard into his back.)

Jimmy: Eat sh*t! (Kintaro turns around and punches him to the ground. He then walks over to Jimmy and towers over him. He begins charging his fire breath.) Godd*mn it… (Jin suddenly flies through the air and kicks Kintaro in the chest.)

Kintaro: I tire of you self-righteous warriors.

Jin: I can see that you’re no pushover. (He gets into a fighting stance.) And neither am I. (Jin quickly delivers a punch to Kintaro’s face, following it up with a roundhouse kick, a punch to his stomach, and two kicks to his legs which sends Kintaro to the ground. Kintaro gets to his knees as Jin runs towards him and kicks him into a lamp post. His head dents it as he slumps to the ground.) Power isn’t everything. (Jin walks over to the shard and picks it up as Amy walks over to him.)

Amy: Hey, that’s mine.

Jin: Relax. (He holds up the shard.) Is this from the Shadow Crystal?

Joker: It is. (The camera pans to see the other heroes walking over. Joker shows off his own shard.) We have our own.

Jin: So you’re aware of Master Mind?

Tidus: Somewhat. (Jin gives the shard back to Amy as she rejoins her group.)

Jin: Then we share a common enemy.

Carmelita: Who are you supposed to be?

Jin: My name is Jin Kazama. My grandfather died at the hands of Master Mind, so it falls to me to kill him myself and return home. (He gestures towards Amy and Joker.) And you hold the keys to his destruction.

Amy: How do we know you aren’t just after the crystal for yourself?

Jin: If I was, I wouldn’t be here anymore.

Jimmy: Guy’s got a point.

Chuck: You have a clue where this guy is? (Jin shakes his head.)

Jin: No, but it looks like you’ve run into his men already. He shouldn’t be too far off.

Carmelita: Lead the way then, tough guy. (Jin smiles and nods as he starts off. The others follow him.)

(We cut to Ryu’s group as they travel through the city streets, following Morrigan. They suddenly hear a voice from behind them.)

???: So we meet again. (They turn around and see Shao Kahn a fair distance away from them.)

Mac: Shao Kahn.

Shao Kahn: You made a mistake by not killing me. Now my army will take Earthrealm, and I shall rule.

Ryu: You and Master Mind will never get away with this.

Shao Kahn: I am no longer allied with Master Mind. My goals no longer align with his vision. (The heroes get into fighting stances as Jago readies his blade.)

Jago: We’ve defeated you before. We will do it again. (Shao Kahn summons his hammer into his hand.)

Shao Kahn: Don’t make me laugh. (He raises his hammer.) Ermac! (Ermac teleports next to him.)

Ermac: Yes, Shao Kahn?

Shao Kahn: Summon the forces. (Ermac raises his arms as a large portal materializes behind them. Multiple Kahn’s Guard (Mortal Kombat) and a Tormentor (Mortal Kombat) run out of the portal towards the heroes. The Kahn’s Guard pull their swords on the heroes. Jago blocks a strike from one as Morrigan jumps up and kicks one in the face. Jago then pushes the guard attacking him back as Mac uppercuts him.)

Mac: Yeah! (Shao Kahn laughs evilly as his men run towards the heroes.)

Shao Kahn: You will never win. (Morrigan takes flight as Kao dodges a Kahn’s Guard’s sword slash and counterattacks by punching him in the stomach. The camera then pans over to Terry.)

Terry: Come on, come on! (He jumps forward and punches a guard in the throat. We then cut to Ryu and Sukapon. Sukapon spins into a guard as Ryu unleashes a hadouken on one.)

Ryu: Hadoken! (We cut to the Tormentor as it roars. It picks up a car and throws it at Morrigan. She dodges in midair as she faces the Tormentor.)

Morrigan: Watch it, you brute! (We cut to Jin leading the other heroes through the city. They hear the Tormentor’s roar.)

Chuck: The hell was that? (They look over to see the Tormentor rampaging through the city.)

Wonder Red: That’s our cue! (They charge towards the fight. We cut back to the fight as Kao rapidly punches a downed guard in the face as another one runs up from behind him. He raises his sword to strike, but Amy jumps in and slams him with her hammer.)

Amy: Hiyah! (Kao looks up at her.)

Kao: Crikey! Thanks, miss. (We then cut to Jago stabbing a guard with his sword. Tidus then runs in next to him and stabs a different guard.)

Tidus: Got one! (Jago and Tidus run towards more enemies as Carmelita shoots in the background. We cut to Morrigan flying around the Tormentor’s head.)

Morrigan: Hey, ugly, get a load of this! (Morrigan unleashes a soul fist which blasts into the Tormentor’s head. He stumbles back a bit before swiping at Morrigan, who dodges gracefully.) It’s gonna take a lot to take a big guy like you down.

Rick: Yaaaaah! (Rick jumps through the air and lands on the Tormentor’s back. He unleashes multiple punches as it stumbles around.)

Morrigan: Woah! Talk about muscles. (We go back to the ground as Chuck stumbles towards an overturned car. He tries to pull the car door off, but is unable to. Wonder Red runs in as Chuck turns to him.)

Chuck: Hey, help me out here.

Wonder Red: Huh? (He quickly figures out what Chuck wants and uses his Unite Fist to pull the car door off and hand it to Chuck.)

Chuck: Thanks. (He charges forward and bashes a guard with the door before using it as a shield to block an attack from a different guard. We cut to Ermac as a maraca flies into the back of his head. He looks down on it before turning and seeing Amigo and Joker.)

Ermac: You can’t hope to defeat me with a weapon like that.

Joker: (Pulling out his gun.) How about this then? (Joker shoots at Ermac, two bullets hitting his chest.)

Ermac: Agh! (He clutches his chest and teleports away. Amigo and Joker look around for him.)

Amigo: Where did he go? (Ermac then drops down from above and punches Amigo to the ground. He then holds Joker in the air with his telekinesis.)

Ermac: Give up while you still can. (Mac then runs up and punches Ermac multiple feet back.)

Mac: Ha! (Ermac drops Joker who helps Amigo up. The camera pans to Ermac as he floats back in the air, now visibly more angry.)

Ermac: Fine. Have it your way. (We cut to Sukapon spinning through the air as he grabs a guard and throws him down the street. The camera then moves forward to see Beat rollerblading through the battle next to Jimmy, who is skateboarding. Jimmy uses his slingshot as Beat spraypaints any guards they pass.)

Jimmy: Fight the power, b*tch!

Beat: That’s the spirit! (We cut to Ryu and Jin as they approach Shao Kahn.)

Ryu: End this now, Shao Kahn!

Shao Kahn: (Readying his hammer.) This will end once I’m dead.

Jin: Enough talk. (Jin rushes forward and throws a punch. Shao Kahn grabs his fist and kicks him to the ground. Ryu runs up and performs a shoryuken, which Shao Kahn dodges.)

Ryu: Shoryuken! (Shao Kahn slams his hammer into Ryu’s chest, sending him back.)

Shao Kahn: I thought you were better than that. (Jin runs up and delivers a kick to Shao Kahn’s chest, which pushes him back. Shao Kahn retaliates by throwing his hammer into Jin. He then materializes it back into his hand. We cut back to Morrigan as she flies around the Tormentor’s head. She delivers a kick to his jaw as he roars. Rick then jumps onto its head and begins punching it.)

Terror Mask: Splatter its brains, Rick! (The Tormentor picks Rick up and throws him onto the street below where he makes a small crater. He slowly stands back up as we see Terry watching.)

Rick: Almost… got him… (Terry runs towards the Tormentor’s legs and punches the ground.)

Terry: Triple Geyser! (Three fiery geysers burst from the ground, causing the Tormentor to fall backwards. Morrigan then creates an illusion of herself that enacts a flurry of punches and kicks on the Tormentor’s head. The illusion vanishes as she joins Terry.)

Morrigan: Not bad. (Rick joins them as he grips the Tormentor’s head.)

Rick: Just in case. You… uh… better look away… (The camera pans to Terry and Morrigan as we hear the sound of flesh ripping. Terry and Morrigan’s expressions change to that of disgust. We go back to Ryu as he delivers a flying kick into Shao Kahn. Shao Kahn stumbles back before swinging his hammer into Ryu’s head, sending him sprawling to the ground. Shao Kahn steps on Ryu’s chest and holds his hammer up.)

Shao Kahn: Such a pathetic display of a warrior. (Jin rushes in and punches Shao Kahn onto the ground, but he quickly gets up. Jin runs forward and attempts to punch Shao Kahn again, but Shao Kahn blocks the attack and uppercuts Jin with his hammer. Jin turns around to continue fighting, but Shao Kahn kicks him into a wall.) Giving up, warrior?

Jin: (Getting into a fighting stance.) I’ve still got fight left in me. (The camera cuts to Carmelita firing at guards all around her as Amy slams one through the air with her hammer in the background. The camera pans around to see Jago uppercutting a different guard as Wonder Red punches one with his Unite Fist. We then cut to Chuck bashing into a group of three with his car door as Kao jumps into frame and punches one in the face. We then cut back to Amigo, Joker, and Mac as Joker takes off his mask.)

Joker: Persona! (He summons Arsene and rushes towards Ermac. They cast Eiha, which surrounds Ermac before disappearing. He clutches his chest and pushes Joker back with his psychic powers. Amigo’s sombrero then flies towards Ermac, who stops it as well.)

Ermac: A pathetic displa- (Amigo suddenly jumps in and smashes Ermac’s head with a maraca, causing him to float back and drop the hat. Amigo puts it back on.)

Amigo: ¡Ole! (Mac then rushes in and jumps in the air. He delivers a flying punch into Ermac, sending him to the ground. Ermac groans as he tries to get up. He’s met by Joker, Amigo, Mac, and Arsene looking down on him. Joker points his gun at Ermac’s face.)

Joker: Lights out! (He shoots Ermac in the face as his magical aura dissipates around him. We cut to the large portal as it disappears. Shao Kahn looks at where it was.)

Shao Kahn: No! My army! (The camera pans to see a dark aura surrounding Jin as he transforms into Devil Jin. We cut to Morrigan and Terry helping Ryu up as they watch.)

Ryu: That form… I’ve seen it before.

Morrigan: Do Demitri and I have a kid we don’t know about? (We cut back to Shao Kahn as he looks at Devil Jin.)

Shao Kahn: I will crush your skull! (He runs towards Devil Jin, but he fires lasers from his eyes that throw Shao Kahn to the ground. Devil Jin then approaches Shao Kahn and plunges his hand into his chest and rips out his spine. He throws it aside as the words “FATALITY” appear onscreen.)

MK Announcer: Fatality. (Jin turns back to normal as the other heroes surround Shao Kahn’s corpse.)

Jin: That’s the end of him

Morrigan: Thanks to us, the world is saved.

Joker: Not quite. We still have to take care of Master Mind. (He takes out his shard as Amy does the same.)

Amy: Just one problem after another.

Wonder Red: The end is in sight, team. I know it is. (A noise is heard from above as our heroes look up. The Helghan Cruiser is seen soaring above the city.)

Ryu: That’s him…

Jago: Then we have no time to lose! (Our heroes run towards where the Helghan Cruiser is flying to. Jin stops for a moment and looks up towards the tops of the buildings. The camera cuts to see Heihachi watching him from a rooftop. He looks down at Jin as he runs to catch up with the others.)

Heihachi: Ganbatte, mago… (He turns and leaves as the screen goes black.)

End of Episode

Chapter 45: Maverick Hunter

(The episode begins with Tracer, Emerl, and Jensen running out of TronGrave Labs and watching the Death Rogumer disappear into the night sky. Tracer and Jensen have their guns drawn as Emerl stands with his hands on his knees behind them.)

Jensen: We have to catch that ship. Now that Sigma has what he wants, everyone's lives are in danger.

Emerl: I… I don't feel so good. (Tracer and Jensen turn to face him.)

Tracer: Oh, poor Emerl. (She goes to comfort him.)

Jensen: No offense, but we need to get going.

Tracer: Not when Emerl is like this.

Emerl: Thank you…

Jensen: And how do you suggest we help him? (Tracer picks up Emerl.)

Tracer: I know a guy who can help. Former Company 1, got picked up for computer science when we landed here. It'll be a detour, but he might just be able to fix our Sigma problem.

Jensen: Take us there then. (They set off into the night.)

(We cut to a future night as the camera looks down on a bar with a sign outside that says “The Warp Zone”. We cut inside to see Lenny Summers (Red Dead) and Barry Wheeler (Alan Wake) getting up from the bar and leaving. We then see arcade machines off to the side. Scout (Team Fortress) plays one of the machines as Mad Moxxi (Borderlands) passes by with a tray of drinks. We cut again to a stage in the bar with K.K. Slider (Animal Crossing) and Athena Asamiya. K.K. Slider is playing his guitar as Athena finishes singing a song.)

Athena: Fire. fire, Psycho Soldier! Fire. fire, Psycho Soldier! (The patrons clap as Athena and K.K. Slider bow. K.K. Slider starts to put away his guitar.) Bye, Mr. Slider! Thank you for playing for us. (K.K. Slider smiles and leaves as the bar owner, Bill, walks up to Athena.)

Bill: Another beautiful night of singing, Athena. I swear, you're the best thing to happen to this bar since whatever it was that brought you all here. (Athena starts tidying up while smiling.)

Athena: I love getting to sing for everyone! And you've been such a nice boss.

Bill: Well, it’s just nice finally having some good help around here. (Bill moves to the bar and Athena follows. She spots a picture of a younger, college-age Bill and another man around the same age behind the bar.)

Athena: Oh, is that you? You look so young.

Bill: Huh? (He looks over.) Oh yeah, that’s me alright. A couple decades ago.

Athena: And who’s that with you? Your brother?

Bill: No, an old childhood friend. Zeke, a real sciencey type. (He laughs.) He had big aspirations. Real big. Bigger than mine at least.

Athena: Had? (Bill gets a sad look on his face.)

Bill: Yeah, he disappeared years and years ago. No one really knows what happened to him. Some people say he took off with his equipment and changed his name, some folk think it killed him…

Athena: What about you? What do you think?

Bill: (Smiles slightly.) I like to think he’s out there somewhere, waiting for me to get him out of trouble. That’s the Zeke I know. (The bell above the door rings.) Sorry, we’re closed… (Bill and Athena turn around to see three Guardroids (Mega Man) who all point blasters at the two.)

Athena: Woah! (They all begin shooting as Athena puts up a psychic reflector that the blasts bounce off of.)

Bill: What the hell are those things?

Athena: Just stay behind me, sir! (We cut outside the bar to see Raiden, Zero, B.J., Gex, Johnny Cage, and Mr. Game & Watch walking through. They hear the commotion and turn towards the bar.)

Raiden: (Unsheathing katana.) More trouble.

Gex: Let’s get ready to rumble! (We cut back to Athena and Bill as Athena uses her psychic abilities to pick up a bottle and throw it into a Guardroid’s head.)

Athena: Leave us alone before I scrap you! (They all look at the bottle as their eyes glow blue. They all begin to mimic her psychic powers and pick up tables and chairs in the bar.) Uh oh… (Before they can throw the furniture, Cage bursts through the door and kicks a Guardroid in the head.)

Cage: Get Caged! (The Guardroid falls to the ground as the other heroes rush in. Zero jumps up and stabs his Z-saber into the fallen Guardroid.)

Zero: Sigma…? (Gex jumps at another Guardroid.)

Gex: Tail time! (He hits the Guardroid with his tail and knocks him against the wall. B.J. then runs up and shoots it in the head, making it short circuit. Mr. G&W and Raiden corner the last one. Raiden swings his katana as the Guardroid’s eyes turn blue. It creates its own katana from its arm and blocks Raiden’s swing.)

Raiden: Huh? (The Guardroid pushes Raiden back with its new katana, but a psychic projectile is blasted into its head and destroys it. Athena walks up to them.)

Athena: Thanks for the help.

Gex: All in a day’s work for the Gex Gang!

Cage: I’m not calling us that. (Zero looks at the Guardroids.)

Zero: These are foot soldiers for Sigma.

B.J.: Who’s Sigma?

Zero: He’s a Maverick and an enemy to humanity. I’ve fought him many times, but it seems that he’s set his sights on this new world. (Athena studies the fallen Guardroids.)

Athena: How were they able to copy my psychic powers?

Raiden: And my katana?

Zero: I… uh… don’t know. Copying abilities is certainly possible, especially for some of my fellow hunters, but never like this.

Gex: So a crazed robot is trying to destroy humanity with a robotic army? Sounds like a concept for a thrilling franchise that’ll get stale by the third film.

B.J.: (To Zero.) Is he killable?

Zero: We’ve destroyed him before, but… that was all X, my friend. Without him…

Raiden: You’ve got us. (Zero looks up at Raiden and nods.)

(We cut to the inside of a building filled with computers. Tracer and Jensen walk through, with Tracer still carrying Emerl. They pass by Avalon (LittleBigPlanet) and Kinzie Kensington (Saints Row) talking at a computer. They eventually reach a lone computer being manned by Marco Rossi.)

Tracer: Marco, got a sec? (Marco looks up and turns to the heroes.)

Marco: Tracer, how’s it going? You haven’t been around here in a bi- (He notices Emerl.) I see you’ve made some new friends.

Tracer: (Gestures to Jensen.) Marco, this is Adam Jensen. (She turns back to Marco.) Adam, this is Marco Rossi, one of the best bloody computer whizzes that I know.

Marco: You’re overselling me a bit, but yeah, I know my way around a computer just as well as I know my way around a boomstick.

Jensen: A man of many talents I see.

Marco: You could say that. (Gestures to Emerl.) And your other new friend?

Tracer: Yes, of course. (She sets Emerl down.) This is Emerl.

Emerl: Cheers, love…

Marco: A chip off the ol’ block.

Jensen: Emerl has the ability to perfectly mimic others, and this ability was recently replicated by a man named Sigma who plans to use it for himself.

Tracer: And we’re afraid it badly affected Emerl. (Marco stands up and begins attaching things to Emerl. He then turns back to his computer.)

Marco: Let’s see… (He starts typing.) I’m not too familiar with… whatever Emerl is, but I can’t find any anomalies within him. He was probably just drained a bit too much by this Sigma.

Emerl: So, I’m gonna be okay?

Marco: 100%. You’re just taking awhile to… recharge I guess.

Emerl: Hooray! (Marco turns back to his computer and starts typing.)

Jensen: What’re you doing?

Marco: Your little friend gives off a very unique signal. And if we can zero in on that… (He finishes typing and shows his screen.) We can find Sigma. (The others look at the screen that has multiple blue dots on it.)

Jensen: They’re all coming from the same spot in New York.

Tracer: There’s so many of them.

Emerl: He’s spreading my ability to his soldiers. (Emerl looks down in sadness as Tracer puts her hand on him.)

Tracer: We’ll stop him, love. (She turns to Marco.) Marco, got anything?

Marco: Well, I’ll need more time with Emerl, but… (He puts a laptop in a bag and slings it over his shoulder.) it isn’t impossible for me to create a virus to counteract it. (He grabs a gun from his desk and puts it in his holster.) Best we join the fight though.

Jensen: How are we gonna get there in time?

Marco: (Smiles.) We’ll take one of mine. C’mon. (They all hurry off.)

(We cut to the night sky as the Falcon Flyer glides over the city. We cut inside to see Sonic, Captain Falcon, Duke Nukem, Faith, and Maxwell inside.)

Falcon: We better land for the night. Still no sign of Master Mind, Sonic.

Sonic: He has to be out there somewhere. (Maxwell puts his hand on Sonic’s shoulder.)

Maxwell: Don’t worry, Mr. Sonic. Maybe he’s hiding because he heard about how we saved the city.

Sonic: Yeah, maybe…

Falcon: Hang on, we might have something.

Duke: About d*mn time. (He picks up his pistols.) My trigger finger’s been itching for a shootout.

Falcon: It looks like… another ship.

Faith: A ship?

Sonic: What kind of ship? (Something suddenly shakes the Falcon Flyer as it begins to quickly descend.)

Falcon: We’ve been hit! Brace yourselves!

Sonic: Woah! (They all hold onto the ship as Maxwell takes out his notebook and starts writing. We cut to see the Falcon Flyer falling towards the city streets as a parachute suddenly appears attached to it, making it slowly drop to the ground. We cut to Raiden’s team watching it fall nearby from the bar.)

Gex: Where there’s smoke, there’s fire, boys.

Zero: Sigma must be close. (They all start towards the Falcon Flyer. Athena turns towards Bill.)

Athena: Stay inside, sir. I don’t want you to get hurt.

Bill: (Nods.) Stay safe out there, Athena. I need my favorite employee in one piece. (Athena smiles and joins the others. We cut to Sonic and friends exiting the Falcon Flyer which is smoking. They all look a little frazzled.)

Faith: Is everyone okay? Maxwell? Falcon?

Falcon: Yeah, I’m fine. (He turns to Maxwell.) Quick thinking, kid.

Gex: We come in peace! (Raiden’s team walks up to the others.)

Raiden: What happened?

Duke: We got shot out of the sky. That’s what the f*ck happened. (Zero looks up and sees the Death Rogumer.)

Zero: It’s him… (The Death Rogumer descends from the sky as Sigma drops from above. Guardroids drop behind him, blasters at the ready.)

Sigma: Zero, what are the odds that I find you here? (Zero takes out his Z-saber.)

Zero: What are you planning, Sigma?

Sigma: You and your little friend, X, have been thorns in my side for too long. But now, the Maverick Hunters are all split up, and my army is stronger than ever. (Sigma’s eyes turn blue as his own Z-sabers come out of each arm.)

Zero: How are you…?

Sigma: I got some help from a very powerful friend, and now humanity will finally get its due. (He points a Z-saber towards the heroes.) Now… perish! (The Guardroids begin charging before a large shot shoots from the air and takes a large chunk of them out.) What?! (The camera pans to see a Metal Slug barreling through the streets while shooting from its cannon.)

Marco: Bullseye! Direct hit!

Sigma: All men, direct your fire on that machine! (All the Guardroids turn and fire at the Metal Slug. Marco looks at the others.) D*mn, those shots are hitting us hard. Tracer, Adam, you two focus on taking out the footmen. Emerl and I will hide out until I can finish the virus. Ready, break! (Marco and Emerl jump out of the hatch as Marco shoots into the crowd. He and Emerl make a run for it as the Metal Slug surges forward, running over Guardroids.)

Tracer: If only D.Va could see me now. (Red lights begin to flash inside the Metal Slug.)

Jensen: Ready?

Tracer: (Grabbing Jensen.) Ready. (Tracer and Jensen blink through the open hatch as the Metal Slug explodes in the middle of the Guardroid crowd. Jensen and Tracer land safely and take out their guns.) Cavalry is back, love! (They charge forward. We cut to Sonic and Raiden’s team.)

Sonic: Go! (They all race forward. Athena picks up a Guardroid with her psychic powers and throws it into two others. The camera then turns to see Mr. G&W flipping sausages with his frying pan into other Guardroids as Duke and B.J. shoot in the background.)

Duke: I’m gonna kick your metal *sses into scrap metal! (We cut to Sigma watching the fight. We go to his POV as he watches Sonic race around.)

Sigma: Interesting. (His eyes turn blue as he starts running as fast as Sonic. He does a jump kick into Sonic's chest and kicks him to the ground.)

Sonic: Ugh… this guy’s fast. (Zero sees this and lunges at Sigma with his Z-saber. Sigma blocks the blow as the two clash.)

Zero: I’m not going to let you destroy humanity! I’ll stop you just like every other time!

Sigma: I’m not the Sigma you remember! (We see his gaze land on Falcon as he Falcon Punches a Guardroid.)

Falcon: Falcon Punch!

Sigma: I am everything! (His eyes glow blue as the Z-saber on his arm is replaced by flames.) Falcon Punch! (He punches Zero to the ground. We cut to Maxwell writing in his notebook as he creates a storm cloud which starts striking the Guardroids with lightning bolts.)

Maxwell: Shocking, isn’t it? Heheh!

Sigma: I need that notebook! (Sigma starts charging towards Maxwell as Cage and Faith notice.)

Faith: Maxwell! (The race towards Sigma. Cage throws a plasmic bolt at Sigma’s back as Faith shoots at him.)

Cage: Eat this, Robocop! (Sigma turns around as his eyes glow blue. He creates his own plasmic bolts from his hands.)

Sigma: How brave. (He shoots the plasmic bolts at them as they fall back. He stands over them, charging another bolt, as Tracer blinks towards him and starts blasting him.)

Tracer: Remember me, big guy? (Sigma’s eyes glow blue.)

Sigma: I’ll enjoy killing you the most! (Sigma blinks towards Tracer and punches her onto the ground. We cut to Gex karate chopping a Guardroid as it stumbles slightly.)

Gex: Huh, that usually works. (A psychic projectile hits it in the chest before Mr. G&W jumps in and hits it with a large match, which sets it on fire and knocks it back. Athena walks up to them.)

Athena: (To Gex.) Is that the best you’ve got?

Gex: I’m saving my best moves for the boss. (They see a trio of Guardroids run towards a parking garage.) Now where are they going? (Mr. G&W beeps thoughtfully as they run towards them. We cut to Marco on his laptop, which is connected to Emerl as they hide in a parking garage.)

Emerl: Are we gonna stop Sigma?

Marco: Don’t you worry about that. We'll get him. Just need a bit more time. (The trio of Guardroids rush in, holding their blasters. Marco quickly grabs his gun and points it at them.) They found us! (Their blasters suddenly fly out of their hands as Athena throws them to the side.)

Athena: Yah! (Gex jumps in and knocks one over with his tail.)

Gex: You know what time it is! (Marco shoots the Guardroid in the head. Mr. G&W runs over and pours a bucket of oil on the second one, causing it to fall back and malfunction. The third Guardroid punches Mr. G&W to the ground as he drops his Game & Watch onto the ground. Emerl replicates the punch on the third Guardroid and knocks him back as Athena shoots another projectile into the Guardroid, destroying it.)

Athena: You two okay? (Marco picks up the Game & Watch as Mr. G&W gets up.)

Marco: What is this? (Mr. G&W walks up to Marco and puts out his hand.) Oh, this is yours? (He studies it.) This… could be the key to stopping Sigma. (Mr. G&W beeps in confusion. Marco points at Athena.) You. You’re a psychic?

Athena: I am. (Marco takes out suction cups and a cord and turns to the others.) This is a little… experimental… but I think this might work. (He turns to Gex and Mr. G&W.) I need you two to cover us though. (Mr. G&W beeps confidently.)

Gex: Yessir! (We cut back to the larger fight as Raiden slashes through multiple Guardroids.)

Raiden: Show no mercy! (Sonic spindashes into multiple in the background. The Guardroids start replicating Raiden’s katana and Sonic’s spindash, clashing against Zero and spindashing into Duke.)

Duke: Agh! (Duke pulls out a grenade and pulls out the pin with his teeth.) Been saving this for a special occasion. (He throws it into a large group of them as it blows them up. We then cut to Jensen and B.J. back to back as they shoot at the Guardroids around them.)

B.J.: You’ve got my back, I’ve got yours, soldier! (We cut back to Sigma as he uses Sonic speed to run in front of Maxwell.)

Sigma: Give me your notebook!

Maxwell: Ah! (Maxwell writes in his notebook as an anvil falls onto Sigma.)

Sigma: Gah! (It starts crushing him as he heaves it off of himself.) Enough games!

Falcon: Falcon Kick! (Falcon jumps in and kicks Sigma back a bit. Sigma ignites his hand again and punches Falcon to the ground. Maxwell tries to run, but Sigma grabs him by the neck.)

Sigma: With the power of that Gizoid and this notebook, humanity won’t stand a chance.

Marco: Think again, big guy! (Sigma turns as the camera pans to see Marco, Emerl, Mr. G&W, and Athena. Marco is holding the Game & Watch, which glows with Athena’s psychic energy.) Virus is done!

Sigma: You plan to stop me with a children’s toy?

Marco: Hell yeah I do! (He starts pushing buttons on the Game & Watch. Sigma’s expression turns sour as he glows a faint blue. His limbs begin moving on their own, setting Maxwell down gently.)

Sigma: How are… you… doing that?

Emerl: A little bit of me…

Gex: A controller… (Mr. G&W beeps.)

Athena: And the psychic energy to handle someone like you.

Sigma: You can’t… I almost had everything!

Zero: And now you’re nothing! (Zero runs in and slices Sigma in half with his Z-saber. Both halves fall to the ground as Zero breathes heavily.) When will you learn… (The camera pans around as the other heroes look at the fallen Guardroids. Sonic runs up and hugs Emerl.)

Sonic: Emerl, buddy! Glad to see ya.

Emerl: Sonic, it’s you! I should’ve expected to see you in fierce battle again. (Emerl looks around.) But where are the rest of your companions? (Sonic looks sad.)

Sonic: They’re… uh…

Emerl: (Nodding.) I understand. Don’t worry, Sonic. I will assist in finding them. (Tracer walks up to them.)

Tracer: Friend of yours, Emerl?

Emerl: Oh yes! This is Sonic the Hedgehog, the fastest thing alive.

Tracer: Fast is right! You were pretty speedy out there. (She extends her hand as Sonic shakes it.)

Sonic: Heh! Likewise.

Raiden: And still no sign of Master Mind.

Falcon: I see we have a common enemy.

Cage: Maybe we should help each other out.

Faith: We still have to find him first. (Suddenly, a large shadow begins to cover them as they all look up.)

Jensen: I think he just found us. (The camera pans up to see the Helghan Cruiser floating above the city. We cut to Bill in the bar as he holds the photo of him and Zeke.)

Bill: It’s what you always dreamed of, Zeke. If only you could see it now. If only… (The camera focuses on the picture as it slowly fades to black, Zeke’s eyes turning purple for a brief moment.)

End of Episode

Chapter 46: List of Characters

Mario (Super Mario)
Yoshi (Super Mario)
Bowser Jr. (Super Mario)
Link (The Legend of Zelda)
Zelda (The Legend of Zelda)
Skull Kid (The Legend of Zelda)
Ridley (Metroid)
Meta Knight (Kirby)
Marx (Kirby)
Mewtwo (Pokemon)
Lucas (EarthBound)
Captain Falcon (F-Zero)
Ike (Fire Emblem)
Black Knight (Fire Emblem)
Mr. Game & Watch (Game & Watch)
Little Mac (Punch-Out!!)
Rex and Pyra (Xeno)
Isaac (Golden Sun)
Sukapon (Joy Mech Fight)
Wonder Red (The Wonderful 101)
Alexandra Roivas (Eternal Darkness)
Mii (Miiverse)
Kratos (God of War)
Zeus (God of War)
Radec (Killzone)
Carmelita Fox (Sly Cooper)
Ratchet and Clank (Ratchet & Clank)
Dr. Nefarious (Ratchet & Clank)
Captain Qwark (Ratchet & Clank)
Zarok (MediEvil)
Specter (Ape Escape)
Kat (Gravity Rush)
Emmett Graves (Starhawk)
Dart (The Legend of Dragoon)
Nathan Hale (Resistance)
Aloy (Horizon)
The Hunter (Bloodborne)
Wander (Shadow of the Colossus)
Kutaro (Puppeteer)
Blasto (Blasto)
Jersey Devil (Jersey Devil)
Master Chief (Halo)
The Arbiter (Halo)
Jack of Blades (Fable)
Blinx (Blinx)
Jago (Killer Instinct)
Joanna Dark (Perfect Dark)
Cooper (Grabbed by the Ghoulies)
Raz (Psychonauts)
B.J. Blazkowicz (Wolfenstein)
Sebastian Castellanos (The Evil Within)
The Keeper (The Evil Within)
Corvo Attano (Dishonored)
Commander Keen (Commander Keen)
Crash (Crash Bandicoot)
Cortex (Crash Bandicoot)
Nitros Oxide (Crash Bandicoot)
N. Trance (Crash Bandicoot)
Tracer (Overwatch)
Jack Joyce (Quantum Break)
Van Tastic (Whacked!)
Sonic (Sonic the Hedgehog)
Amy (Sonic the Hedgehog)
Rouge (Sonic the Hedgehog)
Big (Sonic the Hedgehog)
Emerl (Sonic the Hedgehog)
Zavok (Sonic the Hedgehog)
Mephiles (Sonic the Hedgehog)
Amigo (Samba de Amigo)
Beat (Jet Set Radio)
Billy Hatcher (Billy Hatcher)
Alex Kidd (Alex Kidd)
Magician (The House of the Dead)
AiAi (Super Monkey Ball)
Vyse (Skies of Arcadia)
NiGHTS (NiGHTS)
Kazuma Kiryu (Yakuza)
Bayonetta (Bayonetta)
Joker (Megami Tensei)
Pac-Man (Pac-Man)
Jin Kazama (Tekken)
Heihachi (Tekken)
Nightmare (SoulCalibur)
Klonoa (Klonoa)
Prince (Katamari)
Agumon (Digimon)
Lloyd Irving (Tales)
Rick Taylor (Splatterhouse)
Leon S. Kennedy (Resident Evil)
Wesker (Resident Evil)
Jack Baker (Resident Evil)
Morrigan (Darkstalkers)
Zero (Mega Man)
Sigma (Mega Man)
Chuck Greene (Dead Rising)
Ryu (Street Fighter)
Nero (Devil May Cry)
Fiona and Hewie (Haunting Ground)
Regina (Dino Crisis)
Snake (Metal Gear)
Raiden (Metal Gear)
Simon Belmont (Castlevania)
James Sunderland (Silent Hill)
Pyramid Head (Silent Hill)
Frogger (Frogger)
Goemon (Goemon)
Yugo (Bloody Roar)
Connor (Assassin's Creed)
Edward (Assassin's Creed)
Sam Fisher (Splinter Cell)
Vaas (Far Cry)
Tidus (Final Fantasy)
Sephiroth (Final Fantasy)
Erdrick (Dragon Quest)
Lara Croft (Tomb Raider)
Adam Jensen (Deus Ex)
Gex (Gex)
Commander Shepard (Mass Effect)
Faith Connors (Mirror's Edge)
Gordon Freeman (Half-Life)
Jimmy Hopkins (Bully)
Raiden (Mortal Kombat)
Johnny Cage (Mortal Kombat)
Shao Kahn (Mortal Kombat)
Maxwell (Scribblenauts)
Terry (Fatal Fury)
Marco Rossi (Metal Slug)
Athena (Psycho Soldier)
Professor Genki (Saints Row)
Subject Delta (Bioshock)
Vito Scaletta (Mafia)
Ryu Hayabusa (Ninja Gaiden)
Duke Nukem (Duke Nukem)
Abe (Oddworld)
Professor Layton (Professor Layton)
Alan Wake (Alan Wake)
Monokuma (Danganronpa)
Kao (Kao the Kangaroo)
Earthworm Jim (Earthworm Jim)
Stubbs (Stubbs the Zombie)
Glover (Glover)
Meat Boy (Super Meat Boy)
Risky Boots (Shantae)

Series this work belongs to:

• Part 2 of New Game