~2 years ago~
Jack is an up and coming boxer getting ready for his championship match.
"All right kid, are you sure about this?"
Charlie asked Jack as he was tightening his boxing gloves. Jack was sitting while Charlie was kneeling in front of him.
"What are you worried about me or something Charlie?"
Jack asked with a smug on his face.
"Heck no I'm just scared your mom's gonna get mad at you, for skipping out on your studies, to fight this match."
Charlie said as he fitted the gloves on as they both chuckled.
"Don't worry about it I'll catch up. It's not that much any way it's just college."
Charlie smacked him over the head.
"Hey take your studies seriously okay, it's gonna come in handy one day trust me."
Charlie says as he pats him on the shoulder.
"Yes sir thank you for booking this fight, Charlie."
"Don't mention it kid the way I hear it this guy is tuff and brutal so remember to keep your hands up."
"You got it, coach, I know people have been waiting to see this match."
Jack said as the two stood up, standing side by side. Charlie was a little bit shorter than Jack.
"I know Uppercut Jack vs the infamous Downercut, both undefeated and have defeated all their opponents in the first round. You uppercut and he donwercuts pff one could call it a match made in heaven."
Charlie said with a smile and a chuckle.
"Your hilarious Charlie,"
Jack said as he punched his gloves together and jumped a little. As the two heard the announcer introduce Jack.
"Alright let's go get 'em, kid."
The two walk out and head into the ring as Downercut is already on his side of the ring. Downercut was smiling as he was sitting on his stool. The two approach the center of the ring as the ref gave them the rules and went back to their sides.
"Well kid only a few moments away you want the mouth guard?"
Jack didn't respond, he was focusing, getting his mind ready.
"Well this is a first, you've never focused this much, must be something different about this guy."
Charlie said as he patted him on the back and got off the ring. Jack stood up as Downercut stood up with a smile. They both put up their gloves, as Donwercut's smile grew.
"I've been waiting for this moment, Uppercut Jack this has been a long time coming. Ever since I heard of you I knew you were like me, someone looking for a challenge."
Jack smiled as the two slowly approached each other.
"Yeah, your right I can't find someone to make me go all out. So you better not disappoint me."
The two smiled as they now charged each other and threw a straight punch. As the two fists clashed their smiles grew as they threw more punches each one clashing with the other. Downercut raised his fist over his head and Jack put his fist next to his side.
"Upper"
Jack said,
"Downer"
Downercut said,
"CUUUUUUUUUUT!!!"
The two fists clashed creating a huge gust of wind sending anyone near them flying back. The tournament crowd cheered as the clash of titans had begun to unfold the rematch of the decade Uppercut Jack vs Downercut. In total the two have fought twice, one public match in which Jack won and a secret match in which no one witnessed, hence the winner is unknown to the public. The two broke off and jumped back and ran straight forward at each other.
"I knew you would come to this tournament Uppercut, just like always looking for a challenge."
Downercut said as he threw a straight punch as Jack threw one as well. As the two clashed both smiling.
"I was hoping you would show up, Downercut there are a lot of strong guys here I'd hate for either of us to miss out."
Jack said as the two continued to clash their fist creating more force and pressure each trying to push the other back.
"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!"
The two shouted as a sudden bell rang and they stopped.
"All fighting must come to an end for the final 8 who will go to the next stage have been decided."
DR.Psyicaltion said as the fighting stopped. Only 8 were left on stage, all were either thrown off or knocked out cold.
Jack and Downercut broke off. Jack smiled while Downercut scoffed
"We finish this in the tournament, got it Uppercut?"
Downercut said as Jack tipped his hat. Jack looked around to see who was left. Jack looked and saw Gerrit walking up to him waving. The two fist pump as Fighter began to announce the final 8.
"Congratulations on being the final 8 competitors that will move on to stage 2 of the tournament. The rules for stage 2 goes as follows. Each fight will be 1 on 1, and the bracket will be generated and will place you randomly. You're allowed to use any weapon, and use your power at will but nothing else. To beat your opponent you must knock them out cold or throw them off stage. If a fighter wishes to stop the fight they are allowed to forfeit the match. With the rules established I will now announce our winners of stage 1.
Jack Clockwork
Downercut
Gerrit Drakon
Kuro Zeit
Zelina Furgo
Joseph Moreover
Cero Dirk
Benjamin Hunter."
When Dr.Psyicaltion said the name Kuro Jack could feel his head ring slightly.
"Again?"
Jack said rubbing his head.
"You okay?"
Gerrit asked him, turning slightly towards him.
"Hm yeah, I'm fine just a weird pain in my head."
Jack rubbed his head as Gerrit shook his head.
"It's probably from when you decided to take an explosion head on."
Jack chuckles nervously,
"You saw that huh well I needed to confirm what his power was."
The two chuckled as Fighter made a few more announcements.
"All fighters please report to the rooms we have stationed for you, your room number will appear on the screen now."
They all looked towards the list Jack saw that his room number was 7.
"7 huh and let's see Gerrit you got room 3."
Gerrit cringed as he looked towards Jack.
"Oy can we share a room?"
Jack was confused and taken back.
"What why?"
Jack asked him as he took a step back.
"I hate number 3 for personal reasons. Can I come with you?"
Jack shrugged,
"Sure I guess oh hey what was your final score, we'll say it at the same time."
Jack said as Gerrit shook his head and they both said.
"45."
As they both were shocked, to hear that they had tied.
"Dang, it so we tied,"
Jack said
"How are we gonna decide who buys the drinks?"
Jack said as he started to think, as he snapped his fingers and smiled.
"I got it rock, paper scissors."
Jack said, putting his fist out, as Gerrit let out a big smile.
"Interesting I accept your challenge, but I'll let you know I've never lost a game of rock paper scissors."
Gerrit put out his fist out as they both started to chant.
"ROCK PAPER SCISSORS"
Gerrit added,
"SHOOT!"
Jack went early and played scissors, while Gerrit's hand hadn't fully come down as he stopped it halfway down.
"Wait, we're going on shoot?"
Jack asked awkwardly, scratching his head.
"You always go on shoot. Geez Jack I feel like I should win just for this."
Gerrit said turning around.
"What no way come on now, we'll go on shoot then ready?"
Gerrit smiled and turned back around.
"Fine let's go,"
He said as they both put their fist out and began to chant.
"ROCK PAPER SCISSORS SHOOT!!"
Jack played paper while Gerrit played scissors. Jack lost his smile while Gerrit smiled and pumped his fist.
"I won looks as you owe me drinks."
Jack lowered his head in defeat, as he lifted his hand and gave him a thumbs up.
"Come on let's head to the room no point in staying around here."
Gerrit said walking off, as Jack followed behind. As the two were walking off Jack looked to the left and saw Kuro walking off stage. Jack froze in place as his head started to ring. Gerrit stopped and turned around seeing Jack holding his head.
"Are you sure your alright? We should probably get that looked at."
Jack took his hand off his head and looked at Gerrit.
"Yeah you're probably right I'll ask Sierra to take a look at it."
Jack said as the two walked off. The two arrived at Jack's room and walked inside. When they walk in they see Sierra sitting on the couch with her feet on the table.
"WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!"
Jack shouted rushing over and gently taking her feet off the table.
"Um, what are you doing?"
Sierra asked, putting her feet back on.
"You don't put your feet on a table you don't own."
Jack said as Gerrit sat down and put his feet on the table as well.
"Calm down Jack it's just a table not like we broke it or anything."
Jack sighed and sat down on the coach not putting his feet up. Sierra yawns as she stands up and walks around and behind Jack. Jack looked at her confused. As Gerrit started to drink some water.
"Okay let's get this over with. I need you to take your shirt off."
Jack started blushing uncontrollably as Gerrit spout the water out.
"M-m-my shirt but why?"
Sierra rolled her eyes as Gerrit chuckled.
"Don't you remember? I need to see where your injuries are to heal you."
Jack let out a breath of fresh air and took off his jacket, shirt, and wristbands.
As she put her hands on Jack's back.
"COLD,"
Jack said as he flinched.
"Oh calm down,"
She said as a green light emitted from her hands. Gerrit whistled as he started to drink some more water. Jack smiled as he closed his eyes.
"Hm, what's wrong?"
Sierra asked as Jack shook his head.
"Nothing just *lets out a breath of relief* you just calm me that's all. It's always nice when you're around."
Jack said with a smile and although he couldn't see it Sierra was surprised. As she let out a small smile.
"Geez when's the wedding?"
Gerrit asked, eating some popcorn.
"You can shut up, I need to focus."
Sierra said, closing her eyes.
"Sure you do."
Gerrit said, making air quotations.
~Meanwhile somewhere in the city~
"WHERE ARE WE!?"
Loki shouted as he, Dani, Tucker, and Syra were all reading a map.
"I told you this was a bad idea."
Loki said to Dani as they both kept looking at the map.
"Oh, I'm sorry that I invited you to sneak out of the house with us, see Jack fight, and have some fun."
Dani said, pulling the map away.
"That's not what I meant. I mean we shouldn't have gotten this map from the shady guy in the um in the shades."
Loki said, pulling it back.
"Oh yeah, you may be right about that. He just seemed very trustworthy. What do you think Syra? Which way do you think we should go?"
Syra didn't know which way the tournament was so she just shrugged.
"Here let me see."
Tucker said grabbing the map and taking a look at it. Tucked started to walk with the map in front of him.
"Then if we go this way and turn here."
He said as walked down the street.
"TUCKER LOOK OUT!"
Dani shouted as Tucker bumped into someone and fell onto the ground.
The others quickly ran over to help him up.
"Are you alright?"
It was a woman's voice
Tucker looked up and saw a hand in front of him reaching down. He grabbed it as the person lifted him. The kids all ran up to Tucker to make sure he was okay.
"Hey, you okay man?"
Loki asked him as Tucker shook his head. As the person knelt to meet them at eye level.
"Wait a moment aren't you all Jack's friends?"
The woman asked, as all the kids exclaimed.
"MRS.CLOCKWORK?!"
They all shouted, except Syra.
Mrs.Clockwork chuckled,
"I thought it was you, what are you all doing out here alone?"
She asked as her son George stood next to her.
"Well, you see we're trying to find out where the tournament is and we're having a little trouble finding it."
Tucker said as he passed her the map and she looked at it. She let out a slight chuckle as she turned the map and pointed to it.
"Well, I can see why this map is fake."
She said with a smile as Loki smacked Dani over the head.
"I can take you there in my car if you'd liked."
She said as she patted Loki and Dani over the heads. As she smiled at them. Loki and Dani just stood there, her hands were warm and she brought a calm and happy presence with her, along with her warm smile.
"Really?"
Tucker asked as Mrs.Clockwork nodded.
"What do you think George?"
She said looking to the side, however, George was not there. She quickly looked around and saw him standing next to Syra with his arms up. As she just stood there with her arms crossed. Mrs.Clockwork smiled and said
"He's usually very shy but this means he likes you. He was the same way with Jack he always wanted to be held by his brother."
George kept his arms up waiting for Syra to pick him up. Syra stood firm as his eyes began to water. Syra rolled her eyes and picked him up as George cheered.
"You'll have to forgive me but would you mind carrying him until we get to the car."
Syra nodded as George started to touch her face.
"Come now children walk in front of me please."
She said as the kids all walked in front of her and they began to walk down the street.
"Say Mrs.Clockwork what are you doing out here anyway?"
Loki asked as they continued to walk.
"I was checking in one of the orphanages I run."
The kids all exclaimed with smiles, except Syra.
"Yes, I run many orphanages throughout the city. Along with homeless shelters, food drives, and many other things."
The kids were all surprised.
"We didn't know you did stuff like that,"
Dani said.
"Yeah, whenever Jack talks about you it's mainly on how good of a mom you are."
Mrs.Clockwork chuckles as they make a left turn.
"Good to know my son brags about me."
She said as people started to wave at her and she waved back.
"Who are they?"
Tucker asked looking around.
"I've helped a lot of people in this community, so I know just about everyone."
She said as she kept waving.
"Can I ask you something personal?"
Loki asked looking back.
"I don't see why not."
She said as she looked down at Loki no longer waving.
"Why did you adopt Jack?"
He asked as Dani smacked him over the head.
"What was that for!?"
Loki said, rubbing his head.
"That's a very rude question to ask."
"No, it's quite alright,"
Mrs.Clockwork said intervening.
"Not many people ask why I adopted him, they mainly ask what he was like as a child. When I had first meant Jack and he was living with an old friend of mine Charlie. He called me one day saying he had found Jack in a back alleyway. I came down and that's when I saw him for the first time. Sitting on a bench covered in dirt and all wet from the rain. Charlie had put a blanket around him to keep him warm. Charlie told me the boy couldn't speak or didn't know how to. He tried to get him to write his name on a piece of paper but he didn't know how to do that either. We didn't yet know but Jack had no memories of his past. When I looked into his eyes all I could see was confusion. I walked over to him and knelt when I saw him holding a hat in his arms close to his chest. I reached for it but Jack turned away protecting the hat."
Jack was breathing heavily.
"I've already tried that and he likes that hat way too much."
Charlie said as Mrs.Clockwork smiled.
"Is that your hat?"
She said as she put her hand on his cheek. As Jack's eyes widen.
"It's a very nice hat. I just want to look at it for a moment if that's okay with you."
Jack didn't quite understand but he nodded his head and let her hold the hat. She looked at it and saw the name *Jack* written inside.
"Is that your name? Jack hmm I like it."
She said as she put the hat on his head.
"Would you like to come with me?"
She said offering her hand. Jack took her hand as she smiled and lifted him.
"That day we met I didn't just see confusion in his eyes. I saw so much more, it was when he pulled the hat away. I saw his willingness to be there for others. He still doesn't know why the hat means so much or if it's his but it means a lot to him."
Mrs.Clockwork said to the kids as they reached the car and got inside. Syra handed George back to her.
"I adopted Jack because I saw so much in him, I wanted to help a scared confused boy become who he is today."
Tucker started to tear up.
"Dude, are you crying?"
Loki asked as Tucker sniffled.
"No *sniffle sniffle* yes you know I'm a softy when it comes to this stuff."
Mrs.Clockwork smiled as she rocked George to sleep.
"Jack has always been my little fighter. He wants to know who he was no matter what. I'm glad all of you are helping him."
She said with a smile, as they all smiled, Syra did a slight smile.
"Of course we wouldn't almost accidentally kill him right Loki."
Dani said poking him with his elbow.
"Shut up dude."
Loki said under his breath as Mrs.Clockwork chuckled. The car had stopped and they had reached their destination. There was still a huge crowd outside.
"Well, we're here be sure to give my love to Jack for me."
She said as the car door opened.
"Why not come with us?"
Dani asked as Syra got out of the car.
"I wish I could but I have too much going on today. Strangely, I was there for most of his fights cheering him on. He was always happy when he was training or when he was in the ring. Hopefully, I'll be able to catch the tv broadcast."
Tucker shook his head as they exited the car and waved goodbye as she drove off.
"What nice a lady."
Dani said, putting his hands in his pockets.
"Yeah okay now who's got the tickets?"
Loki asked
"Tickets?"
Dani said nervously, sweat coming down his forehead as the kids all looked down at him.
"Did you forgot the tickets?"
Loki asked the kids surround Dani.
"If you forgot you mean never got then yes."
Loki smacked him over the head and so did the other two.
"Great how are we supposed to get in now?"
Dani looked up rubbing his head.
"I figured we could break-in."
"How though?"
Loki asked as they made their way through the crowd and to the side of the building. Syra sighed as she walked to the building and punched open an air vent. Small enough to where just the kids could get through.
"Ooooh,"
They all said climbing into the air vent.
~Meanwhile back with Jack~
"There we go all done."
Sierra said lifting her hands off Jack's back. As he stood up and stretched his arms.
"Thanks, Sierra I'm back at full capacity."
Sierra smiled as she made her way to the door.
"I'm glad, I got other patients to heal, try not to do anything rash in your next fight."
Jack tipped his hat as Sierra walked out.
Jack stood there and smiled
"Ahem,"
Gerrit said
"She's gone now you can put your shirt back on."
Gerrit said as Jack realized his shirt was still off. As he quickly put them back on. The tv came on with Fighter on it.
"Hello there combatants, the time has come for our first round. Like we said the bracket was completely random and here is the placement for each fighter."
Fighter said as the bracket appeared. Jack was in the first round while Gerrit was in the third round.
"Well folks, it looks like our first match is Uppercut Jack vs Zelina Furgo, how do you think this match will go Dr.Big Brain?"
Fighter asked the Doctor
"Still not my name Jack is a favorite in the public eye and has won many fights in his career. Zelina Furgo has worked as an enforcer for the Clockwork industries for many years and is currently second in command of the force. Having the highest arrest count of anyone else in the force. I'd say we're in for an interesting match Fighter."
"I couldn't agree more Doc will both fighters please make their way to the stage."
Jack stood up and stretched his back.
"Welp guess that's me see you when I get back."
Jack said, waving as he left the room as Gerrit sat and ate more popcorn.
Jack walked out onto the stage with his opponent standing on the other side.
"So you're the guy who works for Clockwork, Zeline Furgo right? I've heard about you before I hope we have a good match."
Jack said as he made a fist with one hand and kept the other hand open. He put them together and bowed. He did not take his eyes off his opponents. He raised his head back and took his stance.
Zeline wore the standard Clockwork uniform, with the company symbol on his right peck. Along with black gloves and high boots.
"Mr.Clockwork has instructed me to not hold back. Despite being his adoptive son he said I was not to hold back against you."
Zeline started to snap his fingers however they sounded different. As Jack waited for the round to officially start.
"Both Fighters ready?"
Fighter asked as they both nod.
"THAN LET THE BATTLE BEGIN!"
Fighter shouted as the crowd cheered. Jack stood his ground waiting for Zeline to make the first move. As he stood there a second a Zeline appeared to the right playing the flute. Jack's eyes widened as he was shocked to see this. As to the left, another Zeline appeared playing the guitar as the three all played to a certain rhythm. Jack ran towards them and threw a straight punch at the Zeline snapping his fingers. However, Jack's punch went straight them him.
"What the?"
Jack said as the Zeline to the left hit Jack in the gut with his guitar and sent him flying back. Jack quickly recovered and took his stance again. As another Zeline appeared playing the trumpet. As another Zeline appeared playing the drums.
"Having a hard time figuring out what my power is?"
He said as another Zeline appeared playing the bass guitar. As the one playing the guitar started to speak.
"You see all of our 5 senes are connected. However, the ones I'm affecting right now are your hearing and vision. You see our brain meshes with vision and hearing to create our conscious experience of the world. What you are can influence what you hear. Hence it is Viceversa with hearing. My ability is that I can create multiple sounds that your brain creates these other versions of me. To comprehend what is going on around you."
As Zeline said this Jack covered his ears.
"Darn"
Jack thought to himself
"Even like this, I can still hear the music, even if it's just faintly."
He thought to himself as he took his hands off his ears, Jack continued to think of a strategy.
"He's creating multiple sounds and my mind is trying to keep with it. How was he able to hit me with a guitar then. Hm, let me see."
Jack said as he ran towards the one playing guitar. He aimed for the guitar and did a sidekick at it. However, his kick went straight through it. As Zeline playing, the bass guitar hits Jack in the face. Jack rolled back and quickly stood back up taking his stance. As three more Zeline appeared. One playing the violin, another playing the triangle and the third were beating a drum.
"More and more keep popping out. How many other sounds can he make. Is he limited to only instrument sounds?"
Jack said as he heard fire behind him and jumped into the air. He jumped over a wave of fire being created by Zeline behind him.
"Guess that answers that."
Jack said as he landed on the ground. He took his stance as the band of Zeline continued to play their instruments.
"Holy smokes, it's a whole band of Zelines, what are your thoughts Doc?"
Fighter asked the Doctor.
"Well, this truly is a fearsome power. As Zeline said he's creating more sounds than. So since sight and hearing are connected by creating these sounds the brain has a hard time figuring this all out so it splits it apart creating the illusion."
The Doctor said as Jack was thinking of a plan.
"Think Jack, what would Gerrit do."
Jack thought as he did an impression of Gerrit in his head.
"I'd just shot them all bang-bang, haha I never miss."
Jack frowned,
"Yeah, that didn't help very much."
Jack thought to himself as he kept his stance up the number of Zelines only grew. All the guitar playing Zelines charged towards Jack. The Zeline holding a bass Guitar went for Jack's head. The other Zeline holding the electric Guitar went for Jack's legs. Jack did a backflip followed with a twist landed on the ground with his hand holding him up. As he spun around and kicked through the one holding the bass guitar. However, he felt contact with the one holding the bass guitar. The Zeline with the bass guitar was sent flying as Jack quickly took his stance. He looked for the Zeline he had just kicked. He had already disappeared into the crowd of Zelines.
"Now I get it,"
Jack thought to himself
"Some of these instruments are real. While the others appeared he must have had someone bring him real instruments while I was distracted. My guess is he can only create so many sounds I just have to figure out which is the real him."
Jack was looking around trying to figure it out as he saw knives coming at him from the left side. Jack quickly rolled out of the way. He quickly got back up and took his stance. As he looked at one of the Zeline's holding a trumpet as he looked at it closely.
"That's it,"
Jack thought to himself as he started to look around.
"There,"
He said as he charged the Zeline holding the violin. He threw a straight punch as Zeline dodge to the left.
"How did you find me?"
Zeline asked, standing back up as he pulled out a combat knife.
"My brain was creating the instrument and the multiple you. However, when I looked at the trumpet nothing was reflecting off it. Meaning it was never there so all I had to do was find the one reflective instrument."
All the sounds slowly began to fade away along with each Zeline. Jack looked and saw that behind the Zelines were random instruments.
"I'm still having trouble figuring out how you got these instruments on stage."
Zeline slowly approached Jack.
"Trained secret so you've beaten my instrument illusion. How about this next one."
Zeline started to run around and mass-produced the sound of the running.
Multiple Zelines appeared all running around Jack.
"So now you're making it sound like there are hundreds of you."
Jack took his stance as all the Zelines came charging towards him. Each came charging with a knife. Jack kept looking around for the reflective knife. One of the Zelines thrust his knife towards Jack. Jack suedes out of the way. As he did he felt a kick in the back he quickly turned around and saw nothing. As he felt a kick to the side and another across his face. Jack slid a little across the stage but quickly regained his stance.
"I see he knew I would look for the knife to find him. So he dropped it and is now using the illusion to hide amongst this huge crowd. His attacks and timing are too good. I thought at first only me and people watching could see his illusion while he was unaffected. Seems he is too. It just makes it easier for him because he's the original."
More Zelines attacked Jack, as Jack backflipped over them and landed on his feet.
"Zeline himself is creating the sound. If I can isolate the main sound I should be able to find him."
Jack closed his eyes and began to listen. He listened closely to the sound of running all around him. The constant sound of running was all he could hear. Jack opened his eyes in realization.
"That's it there's no break in between their steps. When a person is walking or running they push off with one foot leaving a slight break. These are constant almost as if they are not changing feet. He's like me, his power isn't perfect yet."
Jack closes his eyes and listens closely to his surroundings. When finally he heard it. Jack quickly opened his eyes and charged in the direction,
"What?"
Zeline said as Jack charged at him. Zeline stopped running to take a stance however this resulted in his illusion disappearing.
"Darn it,"
Zeline said Jack had reached Zeline and threw a straight punch. Zeline couldn't react in time and was punched in the face and sent flying. Jack stood all the way up with a smile as Zeline layed on the floor unconscious. Jack raised his right fist into the air and did a thumbs up.
"What a spectacular fight, Uppercut Jack has managed to beat Zeline and move on to the next round."
Fighter announced as the crowd went wild. Jack walked off stage waving as Zeline was carried off by the medical team. Jack went back to his room and saw Gerrit watching tv, eating popcorn, and drinking a soda.
"Oh hey, your back how'd it go?"
He asked while drinking the soda.
"It went well, thanks for asking. Also, could you try and not spill that?"
Jack asked as Gerrit gulped down his soda and threw it in the trash.
"Calm down, it's fine, nothing to worry about."
Gerrit said as he grabbed another soda.
"Where are you even getting these from?"
Jack asked as he sat down next to him. Gerrit smiled as he opened it.
"There's a fridge in here. I just grabbed a bunch and brought them over."
Gerrit said as he passed one to Jack. took it and opened it up.
"If you make a mess you're cleaning."
Jack says as he takes a sip.
"Well looks like the next match is starting."
Gerrit said as he turned up the tv.
~meanwhile in the front row seats of the tournament~
"That Zelien guy didn't stand a chance against Jack."
Said Dani as he ate some popcorn.
"Yeah, I'm just glad we found some seats."
Loki said, taking some Dani popcorn.
"You mean when we tricked those guys by pretending that Syra was blind."
Said Tucker as while wearing sunglasses Syra did a thumbs up.
"Yep"
Said Loki
"Most definitely"
Said Dani.
The next match was Kuro Vs, Joe. Kuro walked onto the stage as his opponent was across from him.
"The mighty Kuro at last we meet."
Joe said with a smug.
"Interesting you know of me?"
Kuro asked as the bell rang and the round started. Joe took his stance and was ready for battle.
"I do indeed there's something I need from you."
Kuro lifted one hand and Joe threw up his guard. Joe was sent sliding backward and nearly fell off the stage.
"Impressive most people can't withstand the first blow. I wonder how you'll do in the second one."
Kuro said as Joe dropped his guard and raised one hand.
"I give up,"
Joe said as everyone was in shock.
"What are you up to?"
Kuro asked, keeping his hand up.
"I have what I need. I know I can't beat you. So I'll wait for the moment when I can until next time Kuro."
Joe walked off stage and Kuro was declared the winner. Next was Gerrit versus Cero.
"Well, it looks like it's my turn this shouldn't take long."
Gerrit said as he
stood up and stretched. Jack gave him a thumbs up. Gerrit gave him a thumbs-up back and left the room and headed to the arena.
Gerrit walked up onto the stage and drew his guns. As Cero took his stance. Cero had a long black coat and silver-gray hair. He was holding a shovel in his right hand.
"All right ladies and gentlemen let's get this match underway!"
Fighter shouted as he rang the bell. Cero ran straight towards Gerrit. Gerrit rapidly shot at him. Cero blocked his bullets with the shovel. He swung his shovel at Gerrit's head. Gerrit ducked under the shovel and aimed his guns at Cero's knees. When Gerrit pulled the trigger nothing happened.
"What the!?"
Gerrit shouted as Cero kicked him in the side sending him flying. Gerrit quickly stood up and Cero was already charging at him. Gerrit started to shoot at Cero this time keeping his distance.
"I know your power."
Cero said as he slowly closed in on Gerrit.
"Gerrit the gunsmith former mercenary now living a quiet life here. I've studied everyone who may pose a threat to me in this tournament. You were very high on that list."
Cero swung at Gerrit again. Gerrit was barely able to move out of the way and jump backward. As he reached in his jacket and pulled out a smoke bomb and threw it onto the ground. Cero stood there waiting for Gerrit's next move. As a barrage of bullets came flying out of the smoke and towards Cero. Cero pulled out a second shovel and started to block the bullets. The smoke cleared and Gerrit was holding a machine gun.
"HOLLY **** GERRIT'S GOT A MACHINE GUN!"
Fighter shouted in excitement.
Gerrit aimed and started to run around Cero while firing at Cero. Cero started to charge Gerrit dodging and blocking his bullets. Cero rushed in blocking the bullets as he jumped in the air and landed behind Gerrit. Cero swung his shovel at Gerrit's left side. Gerrit dodge rolled forward leaving his machine gun. He reached into his jacket as Cero quickly leaped towards him.
"No more smoke bombs."
Cero said swinging his shovel down towards Gerrit.
"This ain't a smoke bomb."
Gerrit said as he revealed a flash grande. "****,"
Cero said as the flashbang went off blinding him. Cero took his stance waiting for his vision to come back. A few seconds had passed when he heard a gunshot. He swung his shovel in the direction it came from. However, the bullet went straight through the shovel and passed Cero's face. Cero regained his vision and looked around when he saw Gerrit holding two sniper rifles, one pointed at Cero.
"I'm surprised you were able to react to that."
Cero looked at the shovel that had a hole in it and threw it at Gerrit. Gerrit dodge rolled to the left and quickly aimed his gun at Cero. However, when he looked around Cero was nowhere to be found.
"Behind you,"
Gerrit turned around and saw Cero swinging his shovel towards him. It was too late to dodge it. Gerrit held up his left rifle to block the attack coming in. The shovel hit, sending Gerrit flying and breaking the rifle. Gerrit rolled across the floor. As Gerrit was rolling he fired off a shot at Cero. Cero dodged the attack and Gerrit quickly got back up. Gerrit was holding his gun ready for when Cero popped up again. As Cero started to speak but no one could see from where.
"Your ability is that you can craft guns from out of nowhere. However the bigger the gun the longer it takes."
Gerrit was looking all over the stage but couldn't see him. As he felt something grab his leg.
"What the!?"
Gerrit looked down and saw a hand grabbing his leg. Soon Cero came bursting out from the ground. He lifted Gerrit and swung him around. He slammed Gerrit into the ground.
"Aaagh,"
Gerrit shouted in pain. Blood started to come down from his forehead. It covered his left eye. He aimed his rifle at Cero and pulled the trigger. However, the gun didn't fire.
"As long as you're in my range the guns won't work."
Cero said as Gerrit was confused.
"What do you mean?"
Gerrit asked, still aiming his rifle at him. He let go of his leg and got close to Gerrit's ear. He started to whisper to him.
"My ability allows me to nullify other's abilities. Since that gun is made from your ability it won't work."
Cero said as Gerrit was puzzled.
"If you have such a fearsome power why tell me?"
Gerrit said as Cero stood back up.
"Because you almost beat me. The flashbang got me off guard. If you managed to form the sniper rifles quicker I would have lost."
Gerrit spouts out the blood in his mouth.
"Well, you don't have to be too modest."
Gerrit said, holding his side. Cero grabbed his leg and smiled.
"Hardly,"
Cero said as he lifted Gerrit and threw him off stage. Gerrit layed on the ground motionless.
"Nullification huh hmph I'll find a way to beat it. He had to get close for it to work so that already tells me a lot. I just need to figure out how he got underground."
The medical staff came and got Gerrit and carried him off.
"Wow what a twist ladies and Gentlemen the winner of this match iiiiiiisss CERRO!"
Fighter shouted as Cero started to walk off stage.
"Yes, it seemed both fighters were evenly matched in this fight. However, Gerrit couldn't figure out Cero's disappearing trick. Which led to his downfall."
The Doctor said as Cero left the stage.
~Meanwhile in Jack's room~
"WHAT GERRIT LOST?!"
Jack shouted in surprise. As he started to look around the room for a phone.
"I should call in to see if he's alright."
Jack saw a phone by the door. He quickly ran over and picked it up. As Jack talked with the medical staff the next fight was beginning.
"Well let's keep this party going next up we have Downercut Vs Benjamin Hunter, will both combatants please enter the stage."
Downercut walked on the stage from the left and Hunter to the right. Hunter stroked his mustache. Downercut stood there with a smile and his arms crossed.
"Downercut hmm I've never heard of you before."
He said, still stroking his mustache.
"That's weird seeing how this whole tournament was made for me."
Hunter stood there puzzled.
"What an interesting thing to say, why is that."
Hunter was 7 feet tall and wore a suit.
"This tournament was made to find the best right. Well, that was decided the moment I arrived."
Downercut boosted as Hunter started to laugh.
"You declare yourself to be the strongest? What ignorance I've never seen so much of it before."
Downercut stood there with a smile. As the bell rang Downercut continued to wait.
"Let me show you who is the best, let me show you the king of the beast."
Hunter started to grow in size. Hair began to grow out of his body. His teeth got sharper as he grew fangs. His suit was ripped apart and his shoes ripped apart. As his nails turned to claws. As he now resembled a lion.
"For years I hunted all manner of creatures. However, I always found myself hungry for the meat of a lion. I hunted and ate upon their flesh. Until finally the strength of the beast became my own. Now I am the king of the beast."
Downercut smirk and looked up at a now 10 feet tall Hunter.
"So what, you're just a bigger pussy now."
As soon as Downercut said this Hunter punched him in the face.
"Couldn't even react could you?"
Downercut just stood there not even affected by the blow. Downercut grabbed his wrist and moved his fist to the side.
"Is that it? Come on I know you can do better than that."
Hunter was taken back as he pulled his fist from Downercut's grasp.
"Hmph, maybe you're not as weak as I thought. You're still nothing compared to me."
Downercut held his fist behind his head.
"Come on Mr.Lion don't tell me your just a scaredy-cat. I thought you were the king of the beasts."
Hunter attacked Downercut relentlessly. Throwing a barrage of punches at blinding speeds. Downercut chuckled and uncrossed his arms. Downercut unleashed a flurry of punches and sent Hunter flying backward. Hunter fell to his knee bloody and bruised all over trying to catch his breath. As Downercut stood with no injuries. Downercut started to walk towards Hunter with a cocky smile on his face.
"I told you Mr.Lion the best of the best is right here."
He said as he stood right in front of Hunter. Looking down at him as he crossed his arms. Hunter groaned and threw a straight punch at Downercut. Downercut dodge left and pulled his fist back behind his head.
"Downercut,"
He said as he punched Hunter into the ground knocking him unconscious.
"THE WINNER OF THIS MATCH IS DOOOOOOWNERCUUUUUUT!!!!"
Fighter shouted from the booth as the crowd cheered.
"Hunter was impressive with the power of the lion. However, Downercut was just too powerful for him."
The Doctor said as Downercut walked off stage.
"With that match, we conclude the beginning matches. Next up are the semifinals kicking us off is Uppercut Jack versus Kuro. Will both combatants please come to the stage."
Fighter said as Jack was still on the phone.
"I've got to get going now you sure you're okay?"
Jack asked Gerrit over the phone.
"Yeah, I'm fine just go win this next one. So you can avenge me."
Jack nodded and hung up the phone and headed to the stage. The stinging pain in his head had gone down. Jack made his way to the stage. Jack stood on the left while Kuro on the right. Jack could still feel the ringing in his head. Jack took his stance knowing the ringing only happened when Kuro was mentioned or when he saw him. He intended to find out in this match.
"Are both fighters ready?"
Jack and Kuro both nodded yes.
"Then let the match begin!"
Fighter shouted as the bell rang.
No one moved. Jack stood there ready in his stance. Kuro just stood there with his arms to the side.
"Do we,"
Jack started to speak.
"Do we know each other from the past?"
Suddenly Jack felt a hand on his shoulder. He didn't even see him move, he was just there. As if he had faded into the air and had appeared behind him.
"So you don't remember."
Kuro said, still holding onto his shoulder. Jack quickly spun around and kicked at Kuro's head. Kuro blocked the kick.
"So you don't remember why you hate me."
~To be continued~