*AUTHOR'S NOTE: This chapter was written in collaboration with Blazey_Dally (basically featuring his fursona and OCs). This chapter will also include some Bluey, Super Mario, and 101 Dalmatian Street crossover stuff. How so? Read on to find out! :)
Phoenopolix, Land of the Phoenix
AT THE PHOENIX HIDEOUT
Brando jolted awake, beads of sweat clinging to his forehead as he gasped for breath. The vivid nightmare of the Phoenix Gang members falling one by one to a hail of bullets left him in a state of panic. The room felt stifling, a stark contrast to the cold sweat trickling down his spine.
Coral, Felix, Tangie, and Taurro rushed to his side, concern etched on their faces. "Brando, are you okay?" Coral asked, her voice gentle.
"I'm fine," Brando reassured them, though the lingering fear clung to his eyes. "Just a nightmare."
He recounted the disturbing dream, each word heavier than the last. "We need to find them, guys. We can't waste any more time."
Taurro nodded solemnly. "We're doing everything we can, Brando."
"Any leads yet?" Brando pressed, frustration bubbling within him.
The team aides exchanged glances, their expressions grim. "Not yet," Felix admitted.
Brando sighed, his mind racing for a solution. "Alright, I'll take the role of second in charge until we find them. Koko would want us to keep going."
As they stepped outside the Phoenix Hideout in Phoenopolix, a surprise awaited them. Bandit and Chilli, Brando's adoptive parents from the Bluey universe, stood before him.
"What are you doing here?" Brando asked, his panic resurfacing.
"We heard about your plan," Bandit explained. "Thought we could lend a hand, mate."
Brando hesitated but eventually nodded. "Fine, but we need to move fast."
Just as they set out, another unexpected encounter unfolded. Doug and Delilah from the 101 Dalmatian Street universe appeared, raising Dyandra's suspicion.
"Why are you here?" Dyandra growled, eyeing them skeptically.
Delilah offered a nervous smile. "Just wanted to see my little brother, Dwayne. And, you know, help find the missing team members."
Dyandra sighed, relenting. "Fine, but don't slow us down."
As tensions eased, Brando couldn't catch a break. Bowser, the imposing figure from the Koopa family, approached them with an unexpected concern.
"My daughter's missing," Bowser admitted, worry etched across his reptilian face.
Brando facepalmed, his frustration reaching new heights. "Sure, Bowser, join the club."
Bowser, surprisingly, flashed a cute, toothy grin. "Parental instincts, mate. Can't help it."
The motley crew of Brando, the team aides, Koko's parents, Dom and James' parents, Bandit, Chilli, Doug, Delilah, and Bowser embarked on the search for the missing Phoenix Gang members. Phoenopolix echoed with their determined footsteps and whispered worries.
As they navigated the city's labyrinthine streets, Brando couldn't shake the feeling that parental instincts united them. Each member, in their own way, sought to protect someone they cared about deeply. Brando pondered this as he glanced at Bowser, Doug, and Delilah.
"Alright, everyone," Brando spoke up, breaking the contemplative silence. "Let's find them and bring them back. Together."
The group nodded in unison, their shared resolve binding them against the uncertainty ahead. The night in Phoenopolix was alive with the promise of reunion, but the true challenges lay ahead for this eclectic team.
AT THE PHOENIX GANG SQUARE
Brando stood in the center of the Phoenix Hideout, the Phoenix Gang Square, a common meeting area buzzing with energy and determination. The weight of responsibility pressed on his shoulders as he contemplated the next move. With the missing team members likely in their hometowns, he devised a plan to meet the worried parents' needs.
"Alright, here's the plan," Brando announced, addressing the diverse group gathered before him. "We split up and head to their hometowns. We can cover more ground that way."
Ferran and Adriana, Koko's parents, eagerly joined the group heading to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where Koko resided. Bandit, Chilli, and Aspen would accompany them. Brando will lead the way.
Blazer, Coral, Felix, and Candela, Bliss' friend, formed the team bound for Adventure Bay, where Blas, Bliss, and Iggy were presumed to be. The quartet exchanged determined glances, ready for the journey ahead.
Bowser, the imposing figure from the Koopa Kingdom, concluded that Olga might be in his kingdom. Taurro couldn't help but exclaim, "Bruh," at the thought. Alongside Tangie and Danika Kong, Olga's friend, they embarked on a quest to the Koopa Kingdom.
Lastly, the remaining team headed to Vancouver, British Columbia, where Dom and James lived. The remaining team consisted of Doug, Delilah, Dwayne, Dyandra, and Dond. Each group had a mission, a hometown to search, and worried parents to reassure.
AFTER DEPARTING
Unbeknownst to them, Anton, lurking in the shadows, observed their every move. Sugo, a sinister figure, smirked, signaling the commencement of the ultimate plan – to infiltrate the Phoenix Hideout and seize control in their absence.
AT THE KOOPA KINGDOM
In the Koopa Kingdom, Bowser's team encountered Olga engrossed in capturing the kingdom's breathtaking landscapes with her camera. Bowser, eager to reunite with his daughter, approached her, only to be met with resistance.
"Who are you?" Olga questioned, pushing Bowser away fearfully.
"I'm your father, Olga!" Bowser exclaimed, his attempt to reconnect thwarted.
Taurro, ever the voice of reason, stepped forward. "Olga, remember who you are. You're part of the Phoenix Gang, not just a photographer."
Olga unleashed a dragon pulse, ready to battle, but Danika Kong intervened, revealing moments from their retreat together. Tangie and Taurro showcased pictures from their Phoenix Gang adventures, gradually jogging Olga's memory.
As Bowser presented a picture of the Koopa family, Olga's eyes widened with recognition. Tears welled up as she ran into Bowser's arms, apologizing for any accidental harm.
"What even is happening though?" Olga asked.
"We're on a mission to find the missing Phoenix Gang members," Taurro responded.
"And apparently help them regain their lost memories," Tangie shared with a concerning look.
Olga nodded and understood the task. Together, they set off to Vancouver, British Columbia.
Vancouver, British Columbia
AT STANLEY PARK
In the heart of Vancouver, British Columbia, the search for Dom led Dond, Doug, Delilah, Dwayne, and Dyandra to an unexpected encounter. There, amidst the vibrant park, they found Dom, adorned in a hippie outfit that left his parents baffled.
"D-Dom?" Dwayne stuttered, disbelief etched on his face.
Dom, in a tranquil state, pushed away his parents' eager hugs, questioning their sudden affection. Dwayne couldn't help but inquire about the peculiar attire.
"I am one with the alpha and omega, the yin and the yang," Dom confessed, his words leaving Dwayne and Dyandra exchanging concerned glances.
Dond, undeterred, attempted to shake some sense into Dom. However, all efforts proved futile until a Mario Kart 8 Deluxe game cartridge slipped from Dond's grasp.
Dom's eyes fixed on the familiar cartridge, and a chuckle escaped him. "I remember how good I am in this game."
The floodgates of memories opened, revealing his true self. Bewilderment filled Dom as he surveyed his hippie attire.
Dwayne and Dyandra, overcome with relief, enveloped Dom in a tight embrace. Dom, bewildered, demanded an explanation, prompting Dond, Dwayne, and Dyandra to recount the situation.
"You lost your memories for a moment, dear nephew," Delilah replied.
"And they managed to somehow help you restore them," Doug responded with a yawn.
Dom, now determined to help, joined their mission.
As the group gathered, James, broadcasting equipment in hand, approached them with a cheerful smile. "Folks, we've got Dom back! This is a moment for the news!"
Dwayne, unimpressed, urged James to recall his own memories. Unfazed, James pressed on with another question, chuckling nervously. Dyandra echoed the demand, but James retaliated, attacking them with his steel powers.
Dom, unaffected by James' powers, approached him calmly. In a surprising turn, Dom adopted a playful demeanor, acting girly and nuzzling James. "Don't be shy, James," Dom teased.
"I'm not shy!" James retorted, the words triggering a rush of memories. Confusion clouded James' eyes as he surveyed his surroundings. Dwayne, Dyandra, Dond, and Dom patiently explained the situation.
"I must say," Delilah began to say, "that was quite an odd way of bringing James' memories back."
"It's my son we're talking about," Dyandra chuckled.
"Like my pups," Delilah chuckled while hugging Dyandra.
"Ladies," Dwayne and Doug facepalmed.
With James on board, the reunited group ventured further, only to cross paths with Bowser, Olga, Taurro, Tangie, and Danika Kong. United by a common goal, they forged ahead on a journey to Adventure Bay.
The group's dynamics, as diverse as they were, promised both challenges and camaraderie. Each member, once lost in their own worlds, now shared a common purpose – to bring the missing Phoenix Gang members back home.
Adventure Bay
AT A MECHANIC SHOP
In the bustling streets of Adventure Bay, Blas, now working as a mechanic, tinkered with various gadgets in his shop. The rhythmic clinks and clanks of tools were interrupted when Blazer entered, a glimmer of hope in his eyes.
"What can I do for you?" Blas inquired, his mechanic's demeanor masking the complexities beneath.
Blazer, desperation etched across his face, hugged Blas tightly, pleading for a connection. Blas's reaction, however, took a dark turn. He growled, pinning Blazer to the wall with an unsettling force, his hands wrapped around Blazer's throat.
Coral, Felix, and Candela intervened, attempting to halt Blas's aggression. However, Blas unleashed a punch that sent them sprawling to the ground, unconscious. The tension in the room escalated as Blas confronted Blazer once more. "What the fuck do you need, squirt?"
In a final attempt, Blazer, trembling with fear, licked Blas's cheek and played his favorite rock song. Unexpectedly, a deep blush spread across Blas's face. Memories, long buried, resurfaced, and he dropped Blazer in a panic.
Blas, now overwhelmed with guilt, hugged Blazer tightly, apologizing for his violent outburst. Blazer, understanding the struggle, reciprocated the embrace, glad to have his friend back.
As the unconscious trio stirred, a new development unfolded. Candela spotted Bliss, actively promoting her nail salon business. Excitement radiated from Candela as she rushed to Bliss, high-fiving her with a paw. Bliss, bewildered, couldn't comprehend the situation.
Candela, determined to jog Bliss's memory, attempted to help her recall the past. Despite her efforts, Bliss remained in the dark. Blas rushed to her side, recounting five cherished moments they shared. The fifth memory, however, triggered a swift punch that sent Blas soaring into the air.
Laughter echoed as Bliss regained her memories, chuckling at the spectacle.
"Bliss is back in town, everyone!" Bliss yelped excitedly.
Blas landed on her back, relieved that his twin sister had returned. "Glad to know, sis..."
Unbeknownst to them, Iggy observed the heartwarming scene and, in turn, remembered his own lost memories, joining the jubilation.
Blazer, Candela, Coral, and Felix witnessed the reunion, smiles adorning their faces. The joyous atmosphere shifted as the remaining members of the Phoenix Gang, along with Bowser, Danika Kong, Dwayne, Dyandra, Dond, Doug, and Delilah, arrived.
With the mission in Adventure Bay accomplished, Bowser, Danika Kong, Doug, and Delilah opted to return home. Candela, feeling a newfound connection, chose to stay in Adventure Bay. Dwayne and Dyandra, committed to the Phoenix Hideout, departed.
As farewells were exchanged, the core group, consisting of Blas, Bliss, Iggy, Olga, Dom, James, Coral, Felix, Tangie, Taurro, Blazer, and Dond, geared up for the final leg of their journey. Their destination: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where their leader, Koko, awaited. The cityscape faded as they set forth, united by the determination to restore Koko's memories.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
AT A UNIVERSITY
In the heart of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the hum of an academic lecture hall filled the air as Koko, disguised as a math professor, delivered a captivating lesson. The students absorbed the knowledge he imparted, unaware of the secret life he led. As the lecture concluded, Koko retreated to his office, a sense of normalcy settling in.
To his surprise, the room was filled with familiar faces. The Phoenix Gang, the team aides, Koko's parents, Bandit, Chilli, Aspen, Blazer, and Dond surrounded him. An uneasy tension hung in the air as they restrained Koko, preventing any escape.
Mouth covered, Koko attempted to scream, his eyes reflecting a mix of confusion and fear. The Phoenix Gang, desperate to help him reclaim his memories, took turns pleading with him. Koko vehemently denied their claims, insisting he was a math professor.
"I'm a professor!" Koko said in fear. "I lecture math!"
Adriana, Koko's mother, interrupted the turmoil, shouting about his incomplete studies.
"You still have two more years of study!" Adriana said.
In response, Koko proudly presented a Master's Degree certificate. Ferran dismissed it as false, further fueling Koko's frustration. In retaliation, Koko conjured energy ropes, ensnaring them one by one, his grip tightening.
Amidst the struggle, his parents shared memories of his past, recounting the shy and fearful boy who had grown into the man before them. Olga, Blas, and Bliss took turns expressing their gratitude for Koko's acceptance. Iggy acknowledged Koko's generosity in allowing him to see his twin, Keegan.
James and Dom revealed their appreciation for Koko's understanding despite their complicated backgrounds. Felix and Taurro expressed pride for Koko's adventurous spirit, referencing their World of Warcraft experiences. Coral and Tangie pleaded for Koko to remember, their voices filled with desperation.
Bandit and Chilli recalled the loneliness that Koko had faced, thanking him for welcoming Brando into their lives. Brando, his eyes filled with gratitude, shared how Koko had raised him like a true parent.
"Please remember, Koko!" Everyone in the room said in tears.
Despite the heartfelt pleas, Koko vehemently yelled for them to shut up, resisting the tide of memories washing over him.
"SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT THE FUCK UP!" Koko yelled in panic.
Dom, in a last-ditch effort, handed a Cola Cao drink to Koko, mistakenly believing it was coffee. The room erupted into chaos as they scolded Dom for his mistake.
Unexpectedly, Koko took a whiff of the Cola Cao, and a flood of memories rushed back. He remembered the lively and outgoing person he once was—the exploration of Broca, Spain, the odd fascination with washing machines, and the shy boy who learned to make friends, ride a bike, and swim.
He recollected the challenges he faced, the bonds forged with his companions, the adoption of his pups, the inspiration behind starting the Phoenix Gang, and the journey that brought them all together...
KOKO'S MEMORIES
Broca, Spain - Koko's Childhood Home
Young Koko, with messy hair and bright eyes, explored the charming streets of Broca, Spain. His fascination with the town's various shops and odd interests had already begun.
Koko: *smiling* "Hey, Hector, check out this cool gadget! Wonder what it does!"
Hector, Koko's childhood friend, chuckled as they ventured into yet another shop.
U.S.A. - A New Chapter
The scene shifted to a young Koko arriving in the U.S., eager to embrace new adventures. His shy demeanor started to transform.
Koko: *tentatively* "I guess it's time to learn how to ride a bike and swim as well. New beginnings, right?"
The memory played out like a montage—Koko conquering the fear of the unknown, step by step.
Meeting Aspen - A Furry Friendship
In a park, Koko met Aspen, the energetic and affectionate canine furry who would become an integral part of his life.
Aspen: *barking excitedly* "Woof! New friend, yay!"
The bond between Koko and Aspen grew stronger with each passing day.
Adoption of the Pups
A heartwarming scene depicted Koko adopting a group of adorable pups (Blas, Iggy, Dom, and James), bringing joy and chaos to his life.
Koko: *laughing* "Welcome to the family, little ones!"
The four: "Arf!"
Phoenix Gang Beginnings
The flashback revealed the inception of the Phoenix Gang, marked by Koko's encounter with a mysterious figure who inspired him.
Mysterious Figure: "You have the power to change things. Gather those who share your vision, and create a legacy. Like you told me, be yourself."
Koko, inspired, rallied the early members, Brando, Blas, Iggy, Dom, and James, especially after being gifted unique powers.
Struggles and Triumphs
Images of challenges and triumphs unfolded—the fights they endured, the moments that tested their unity, and the resilient spirit that held the gang together.
Blas: "Koko, we've been through a lot, but together, we can face anything."
The scene continued with the entire Phoenix Gang and Koko sharing a hug.
END OF KOKO'S MEMORIES
The flashback seamlessly transitioned to the present as Koko, now back in his office, took a deep breath.
"I remember... everything..." Koko said in tears.
The room lingered in the echoes of Koko's past, a shared journey of growth, friendship, and resilience that had shaped the man before them. Releasing the energy ropes, Koko cried silently. The room transformed into a haven of warmth as everyone surrounded him, offering comfort and embraces. Aspen, relieved, planted a kiss on Koko's cheek, marking the end of a tumultuous journey to reclaim lost memories.
HOURS LATER
The day's warmth lingered as Bandit and Chilli bid farewell to Brando. The Australian couple shared heartfelt words, expressing their gratitude and promising to return someday. As they departed back to Brisbane, Queensland, Brando stood there, a mix of emotions playing on his face, then later meeting with Koko and the rest of the Phoenix Gang.
In another corner, Koko's parents, Ferran and Adriana, engaged in a quiet conversation. Their smiles and nods revealed a sense of reassurance. The journey to reconnect with their son had not only restored memories but also strengthened family bonds.
Meanwhile, the Phoenix Gang, accompanied by Aspen, Blazer, and Dond, found solace on a hill overlooking the city. The gentle breeze stirred the air, and the setting sun painted the sky in warm hues. The companions enjoyed the serene moment, contemplating the path that lay ahead.
Koko's gaze lingered on the horizon, his mind drifting into the uncertain future. Aspen, sensing the shift in Koko's thoughts, asked, "What's on your mind, Koko?"
Koko sighed, his eyes fixed on the changing colors of the sky. "I've been thinking about the future. What comes next for all of us?"
Aspen tilted his head, curious. "Why are you wondering about that?"
A contemplative smile graced Koko's face as he spoke his musings. "I've been thinking about disbanding the Phoenix Gang. Maybe it's time for each of us to pursue our own paths instead of sticking together indefinitely."
The members of the Phoenix Gang listened in silence, absorbing Koko's words. Each expression varied, from surprise to introspection. Koko continued, "I feel like we've come a long way, and maybe it's time to explore new adventures, on our own terms. But, of course, this is just a thought, not a decision yet."
Aspen nodded, understanding the weight of Koko's reflections. He laid his head on Koko's shoulder, the two friends sharing a silent moment as they watched the sun dip below the horizon.
However, the tranquility was shattered by an unexpected explosion on the horizon. The sky, tinged with red, showcased a Phoenix-shaped plume of smoke, adorned with familiar blue and pink hues. A sinister chuckle echoed through the air, sending a shiver down the spines of the Phoenix Gang members.
Olga's eyes widened with recognition. "That explosion, that laugh... could it be Sugo?"
Koko's expression hardened as he stood up. "Sugo," he muttered, the name hanging in the air with an ominous weight.
A moment of tense silence enveloped the group until Koko voiced the question that lingered in everyone's minds. "Was that Phoenopolix though?"
END OF CHAPTER