Authors: Vincent Rodger & Alex Williams | Banner: Dao Zang Moua

[Continued from Match 390]

Planet Vortaak, millions of years ago

Among the stars laid a planet beginning its first steps in life. Magma covered every stretch of the planet’s surface, slowly making the land when they arrived…

The golden demise flapped their wings as they descended to the planet’s molten landscape, placing their feet on some of the only land formed as another of their kind joined them. This one was smaller, their horns not as developed and with armor plating laying across their yellow scales. The smaller of the two looked towards their elder as the golden demise looked at the lava, hissing as they told them a tale.

Many planets began life in this way, burning from the core to the surface. Though it was rare for lifeforms to actually form on a planet so young, it was possible. King Ghidorah grew angry at this, their whole existence filled with rage as life itself offended them. Nothing filled them with more pleasure than to snuff out the light before it even began, a very important lesson for their younger apprentice. The one who would come to be known as Grand knew so little, but yet held so much potential with their destructive capabilities, they hoped to turn them into one of the most powerful entities across the universe. One day, they would not be around, but their legacy would live on in Grand.

Below them sat the pool of hot, boiling magma, pulsing with heat as it traveled down a stream. Within the heat, sat millions of amoeba-like beings waiting for their true form to take place. But one saw THEM. The pair of golden destroyers were sitting above them, merely watching the beginning of life. The amoeba began to pulse, its form beginning to expand, changing at a rapid state. The golden demise’s three pairs of eyes widened as a new monster began to rapidly appear in front of them. Black armor lay across its body, three massive necks and heads mimicking their own form. Twin wings sprouted from its back, black and dark red laid across the wing’s armor, the posture being on all four legs instead of the planet eater’s upright form. Three sets of eyes opened as hideous mouths let out a roar filled with… purpose. A worthy form, at long last.

The golden demise hissed as they stood up to their full height, rattling their tails and expanding their wings, attempting to intimidate the imposter Ghidorah. The younger serpent stood back as he prepared to watch from the sky. The ebony horror unleashed another roar, challenging his master, for he was the dragon of darkness, the new devourer of worlds… Desghidorah.

With hatred in their hearts, the two charged at one another…

***

-1988-

They fell.

Descending down from the heavens, the two lovers held each other tight as they prepared themselves for the unknown. All they needed was each other. Both looked each other in the eyes deeply, smiling. Their eyes told each other everything, committed to facing every obstacle coming for them.

Their solace couldn’t last forever.

“Hina Amano!”

She nearly gasped, taking her eyes off of Hodaka and scanning through the blue sky when a twinkle shined through. Hodaka’s eyes followed suit, turning to face what she was staring at, but through his point of view, nothing was there.

“Hina?” he asked worriedly, but it was fruitless as she elicited no response and kept her gaze on the sky surrounding them.

Hodaka’s voice went silent as Hina kept her attention fully on the gleaming light. Its influence spread farther and farther as she shielded her eyes while Hodaka didn’t not feel its effects. She nearly gasped, as Hodaka yelped out for her safety and pulled her in closer.

“You have forsaken your oath!”

Hina couldn’t find the words to respond to the ominous voice, shellshocked by what it was referring to, but it would not matter as it continued on.

“A city sacrificed. Lives will be lost.”

She knew what it meant.

Her happiness at the cost of the world.

A part of her regretted deserting her role as the Sunshine Girl and knew she would carry that burden with her forever. Her left eye started tearing up, as the scenarios of how badly the world would be impacted were playing in her head. People losing their lives, separated from the ones they love, and the world changing as they knew it.

No.

No matter what path she went down, there would still be hurt. Hina clenched her fists behind Hodaka’s back.

“I promise I will do better.”

Hina wiped the tear from her face. She couldn’t go back, not now.

Not when she was on the path to what she wanted.

“Your penance will be paid in full. You will be called upon to serve as the one before you has.”

The twinkling light vanished and a metallic being burst through the sky. Hina swept her eyes over the entity zooming towards her. Its majestic, metallic wings blanketed the sky as it cast its shadow over them.

Hina briefly glanced over to Hodaka, but like the voice speaking to her, he didn’t notice the being nor them being shrouded by the shape.

“And only when you have lost everyone and everything you cherish, will you be freed from this servitude.”

The former Sunshine Girl stared back up at the winged spirit, getting a better look at it. She found it awe-inspiring. Its silvery wings were met with a golden bronze scattered across, its chest shining brightly with gold and red. The green orbs distributed across its body reflected the sun’s light, blanketing the world in light. Then, finally, the bird looked down at Hina and let out an audible sound, calling her to her newfound duty.

The divine messenger’s golden helmet lit up, forcing Hina to shield her eyes momentarily, letting out another gasp. Knowing she had to witness every moment that was transpiring, she found herself giving her eyes the strength to open up and to witness the glowing beams.

It seemed like an eternity, with the beams still emitting from the phoenix, she felt herself regaining consciousness, and yet was still aware of her surroundings. She felt something around her neck, which a glance downwards revealed to be a necklace, a simple string attached to a green crescent of a gem.

“You are now the avatar of the Space Warfare God, the protector of the people.”

With one final burst of energy, the phoenix let out a call with a golden rush of energy surged towards her. Hina felt herself imbued with the dynamism of the creature before, however, despite the massive amount she received, she felt herself become weary.

Her eyes slammed shut.

”Utsuno Ikusagami.”

***

-1991, Present Day-

Her eyes opened.

She lazily moved her head sideways, taking note of the light blue walls with photos of memories she had of her friends and families plastered on them. The girl rubbed her head while propping herself up.

“That dream again,” Hina murmured as she removed her hand from her face, before looking at her palms. “No. It was real.”

The abilities of the Sunshine Girl lingered, but were no longer as prevalent as before. The sun would hardly beckon to her calls, not that it mattered in any way, since they had to relocate to Hokkaido. Yet, something else lived inside her, one of far greater power.

Hina let out a yawn as she moved herself off the bed, but as soon as her feet touched the ground, a loud thud was heard. The noise didn’t shock her as she simply rubbed her eyes to find Hodaka on the floor. He raised his head up and smiled at her.

“I was just coming to wake you, but it seems you already got that part taken care of,” chuckled Hodaka.

Hina cracked a small smile at him. “Something about that doorway makes you trip, doesn’t it?”

“I think this is the world’s way of saying it has something against me,” joked Hodaka, never once keeping his eyes off Hina, his beloved. Whether it was her being bathed by the sun or in a dull room, she was not only beauty, but she elicited it everywhere she went. He smiled, immediately feeling good about himself just by being in her presence.

“She really is the best of us.”

“From doors to guns, you do have a habit of trying to get yourself killed,” countered Hina, keeping her gaze on her knight. He always rushed off, trying to help anyone he could, even if he had no powers or any skills that he could benefit from, but it never stopped him. His words or even actions were enough to change a person for the better. The past three years without him were suffocating, but that was the past, now was the time to focus on the future. Or at least that’s what she kept telling herself.

“It’s my charm, you know?” beamed Hodaka.

“If you say so,” Hina hummed while heading out towards the doorway, only to stop in front of him.

“What’s the matter, aren’t you hungry?” questioned Hodaka, as his smile faded away with concern when he saw his girlfriend freeze in front of him.

“You want me to step on you?” inquired Hina, raising an eyebrow at him.

“Huh?” questioned the bewildered Hodaka, as his eyes shot downwards only to realize he was still on the floor. “How did I not realize that?”

“You were too busy looking at my boobs,” Hina pointed out, frowning at him.

In an instant, Hodaka’s face turned bright as a tomato from embarrassment. “I…. No! I didn’t mean to… I was only looking at you….”

Hina cut him off by letting out a huge roar of laughter, causing Hodaka to calm himself as he rolled his eyes.”Not funny, Hina.”

“It’s a little funny,” Hina giggled, offering him a hand. “Besides, you always fall for it.”

“I guess some things never change,” chuckled Hodaka, offering the assistance given to him as he was lifted back to his feet. The two didn’t let go of each other’s hands and made their way to the kitchen where they were greeted by the sweet smell of miso soup and onigiri.

“Thanks for the help by the way!” Nagi hollered out, seeing his two roommates entering the living room.

“Right, sorry senpai!” Hodaka called back out, his face growing red once more from neglecting his duties in preparing the meal.

“Still?” Hina inquired, pouring a portion of the soup in her bowl.

“What, he still gives out some decent advice,” Hodaka countered, setting up the table with all of the utensils.

“But you shouldn’t rely on it all the time! You’re older than me!” Nagi exclaimed, waiting in line to scoop up his serving.

Hina simply chuckled as the two continued to bicker while she mosied over to the table. However, her mind shifted somewhere else, back to when she awoke.

The power inside her.

One far greater than her ability to bring out the sun.

She never tested this ability nor had the faintest idea on the full extent of its power. Yet, she knew enough about it to activate and a decent grip on what she would become. The figure appeared in several of her dreams, clad in silver armor with the sun placed behind it as if it strapped the star to itself. What made her admire the figure the most was how every time it showed, it was blanketed by holy light, as despite its intimidating stature, it ushered in a sense of safety.

Despite it all, she couldn’t bring herself to tell anyone about it, especially Hodaka and Nagi. She couldn’t put them through anything like this.

“Not again,” Hina murmured.

“Not again?” Hodaka asked, snapping her away from her thoughts. She looked up to see the two of them staring at her dumbfoundedly.

“Did I really say that out loud?”

“You okay?” Nagi asked, before taking a sip from his soup, keeping his gaze on his older sister.

“Um… yeah! I… just…” Hina stammered, trying to find the right words without worrying them too much. Still, she let out a small defeated sigh, knowing she wasn’t fooling them. “Just… forgot to turn on the TV.”

She got up and marched to the smaller TV placed on the counter, turning it on with the press of a button. Normally, they used it for noise when preparing meals or trying to work on the mundane tasks around the apartment, but she needed a distraction.

“Anything, really.”

“If you’re gonna turn on the TV, at least have it be something more entertaining than the news,” Nagi countered, immediately yawning from the droning voice of the newscaster.

“It’s fine, it’s best to know what the weather conditions will be like,” Hina softly spoke, turning her head down to her soup.

“Hina,” Hodaka called out, gaining her attention once more. “Is everything really okay?”

She saw the concern in his face, as all he wanted was to make sure she was alright and would be willing to do anything to make her happy. It terrified her, because she desperately wanted to tell him the secret she was harboring all these years, but this was worse than what happened previously.

“Yeah, just trying to wake up,” Hina voiced, but elicited a small smile. “I appreciate you asking, though.”

“Of course,” Hodaka smiled back, going to take a bite out of his onigiri, but was interrupted by Nagi. “You might want to wake up faster, sis.”

“Huh?” Hina murmured, noticing Nagi pointing directly behind her.

“Oh shit!” Hodaka uttered out, nearly dropping his food.

The former Sunshine Girl turned around, eyes immediately widening the moment they had the screen in their field of vision. What the three of them saw was horrifying.

Anguirus, once thought of as a protector, was ravaging the landscape all around him. The Fierce Prehistoric Dragon crawled from the depths of the earth as the rumbling caused several buildings to tip over, crushing anyone unfortunate enough to be in their vicinity. Additional cracks formed, tearing the scenery apart all around him. Then, the worst of it had yet to come. The fleeing civilians collapsed as the smoke caused by the explosions suffocated them, causing pure agony in their final moments.

Before more could be shown the TV cut out and issued a general emergency signal, indicating everyone in the vicinity to evacuate at once. Hodaka jumped out from the table and in the blink of an eye, grabbed everything essential to them.

Hina and Nagi couldn’t process it, the horror that was displayed on the television just seconds ago. It left them in a state of petrification, though it didn’t last long with Hodaka taking a hold of each of their hands.

“We have to go, now!”

The two of them were yanked away from the table and dragged across the living room to the outside world. Hina looked up at the bright blue sky being absorbed by the smoke, converting it into a reddish-orange.

“No. Not again.”

Hina teared up, seeing the beautiful sky being taken away from them once more. She was at fault last time, costing millions of people their homes for it, but now, it was happening in front of her eyes once more.

“I have to tell them, but their safety comes first.”

The former Sunshine Girl snapped out of her trance and picked up her feet. Hina ran fully alongside Hodaka, removing the supplies from him while he focused on carrying Nagi. They didn’t have time to discuss it nor come up with a concrete plan, but they both agreed that they needed to run as fast as possible.

“We’ll be alright, Hodaka. It’ll be my turn to save us.”

***

Within the Hollow Earth sat a monster thought long forgotten. The beast slept, wanting rest after helping his fellow titans hunt for a meal. Then he heard an echoing roar, his eyes snapping open as the order for subjugation emitted. The behemoth rose from his bed rest, puffing out of his chest before unleashing a response.

Though he sensed the fall of the island of Titans, he would not be enslaved or scared off by an invader. He would rather die than live in chains. The mutant could tell that they were drawing near, he would need to gather the others and face the threat head-on, for if they didn’t, he feared the world would fall to the invader’s might.

The monster prince turned, walking towards where he last saw the pair of humanoids. He knew they felt it as well when their respective roars reached out in defiance. As they entered his view, they turned. The pair wore armor from past hunts, the bone covering their bodies to protect the weak flesh from stronger opponents that lived in the Hollow Earth.

The Brown Gargantua wore the armor of the great Dah’ren Mohran, one of the many beasts that fell to the blade his father gave him. Though it was a challenging hunt, Sanda had come up on top. The gentle giant stood up, grabbing the knife made from the fallen Baragon before placing it in a sheath. He nodded at his nuclear companion.

The Green Gargantua reached down, grabbing the helmet to his Diablos armor before putting it on. Gaira was ready for war. Unlike his brother, the hunt for his armor was rather easy, the beast dying a rather quick death. The beast of the sea also yearned to see the light of the sky or the darkness of the ocean, he wished to finally leave this prison.

The pair looked towards their saurian companion, waiting for the nuclear leviathan to give the command. The fully grown son of Godzilla nodded before turning and walking away from their cave home. Minilla had faced many Titans in his life, but none had brought such a feeling of dread in his heart. Whatever this monster was, it needed to be eliminated.

***

The tenacious ankylosaur unleashed a roar into the sky, announcing his arrival before groaning in annoyance as he dragged himself from the tunnel. The wounds from the battle at Skull Island were still fresh, it was a miracle that he had survived the slaughter.

Anguirus took in deep breaths as he observed his surroundings. This city was not his destination, but he was near. He sensed the life signs of his fellow guardians, protectors of the planet. Though he and his allies on the island had failed, perhaps these earth defenders could take back the battle. He needed to hurry, for the might of the trio brought fear within his mind. If it wasn’t for his change in tactics, they would have killed him and Godzilla Junior.

The fire monster stepped forward, determination and adrenaline forcing him forward through the aching pain. The citizens quickly ran from the area, though the beast was known to be a protector of the planet, they did not forget his attack in 1955. And when an Earth Defender arrived, it usually meant that something to fear was coming.

In the corner of his eye, the ankylosaur spotted something. He turned, seeing the hole behind him begin to give a heavenly glow. Cracks in the very earth emitted light before it erupted, dirt flying in all directions. Anguirus cried out in surprise as he jumped back, getting into a defensive position. Through the dust, he spotted a pillar of light and a gigantic shadow in it. The form stretched its wings, joints popping as the beast continued the action. Its three large necks uncoiled, legs flexing as it stood up and sank scythe-like talons into the soil. A beefy tail which branched into two swung back and forth, the hydra taking in a deep breath as three maws gave a sinister grin. He had finally been released from his prison, hatred for the sun god still running through volcanic veins, he would pay for daring to seal him away.

The ebon fiend would drain this world of its light, reducing it to a lifeless husk, one he would rule on the foundation of corpses. The hydra’s eyes snapped open as his heads raised into the air and unleashed a roar of dominance. The embodiment of death, the hydra of chaos, Desghidorah had returned.

Anguirus began to growl, his body shaking at the reveal of another Ghidorah. He had just escaped from two of them and now he unleashed another onto the world. What had he done? The ankylosaur focused on his opponent, the dragon flexing his wings and body while shifting into an intimidating display, roaring at the defender. The two locked eyes before Anguirus made the first move and charged forth, kicking up dirt as he leaped across the field.

Desghidorah stared down at his charging adversary, flames surrounding all three maws before unleashing fireballs at the dinosaur. The first two struck the land around them, only for the third to strike Anguirus across the shoulder. The dinosaur cried out in pain but pushed forward, aiming to slam his bulk into the Ghidorah. Desghidorah reached down, grabbing Anguirus in mid-charge and sinking its teeth into his flesh. Blood fell and smoke rose from the wounds as the ankylosaur let out a cry of pain, the three-headed destroyer shaking its heads violently to worsen the damage. Blood flew across the field before the brave reptile was thrown.

Anguirus let out a roar of pain as he crashed into the earth, citizens running in the opposite direction in fear. Hina looked back, she wanted to help but she also needed to take care of Hodaka and Nagi. She turned, joining the others as they fled.

***

The forest shook as a green goliath walked through the countryside. The beast heavily breathed as he snarled, his bones feeling as if they were going to snap, his organs ready to burst. The young mutant could feel his ally close, but what made dread fill his mind was the fact that the signal was fading.

Something was wrong, he could feel another source of energy near the ankylosaur. Something alien, even somewhat familiar to the invaders that attacked his home and killed his family. Godzilla Junior felt rage climb up from the very roots of his being. He needed to catch up, and fast, if he didn’t, then the one part of his family that remained would fall to the invader.

The young Godzillasaurus crushed trees under his weight, small forest animals running away to avoid being crushed when suddenly… a gigantic boom echoed through the environment. Junior turned his eyes towards the direction of the sound, spotting the very earth crack and a landslide being triggered by the event. Through the dust and earth, a green hand emerged, quickly being followed by a bipedal beast. The monster roared as he crawled his way out of the Hollow Earth, the Gargantua taking in deep breaths as he got the whiff of fresh air for the first time in years.

Armor covered his body, a reminder to those that would challenge him of his might. The colossus turned his gaze, spotting Junior standing in the forest. Gaira smiled before beating his chest and snarling at the young monster, issuing a trial by combat. Junior puffed out his chest before releasing an ear-piercing roar, this beast stood in his way to Anguirus. He would need to hurry and take care of the challenger before his friend perished.

Gaira raised his hands above him, attempting to look bigger than he was, but such a trick would not work on Godzilla Junior. The young mutant charged forward, destroying the trees that surrounded them as he opened his jaws and attempted to wrap them around the Gargantua’s throat, only for the beast of the sea to put his arm up and protect his vital area. The monster cringed as he felt the razor-sharp teeth biting into his flesh, before lifting his leg and kicking the prince away.

Junior’s dorsal spines quickly lit a bright blue before he unleashed his atomic blast. The spawn of Frankenstein widened his eyes as he jumped out of the way, the beam causing a series of explosions as he trailed across the forest before the young Godzilla ceased the attack. Flames engulfed the forest, smoke rising to the sky as Gaira got to his feet. The humanoid let out a growl, his opponent was strong, but young. This creature had less experience in combat than he did.

Gaira charged forward, the green giant was ready to beat his opponent into the ground. Junior roared as the humanoid wrapped their hands around his throat, the pair falling over onto the ground. The mutant squealed before his opponent raised his hand above his head, ready to strike.

When a black figure appeared beside them. The Gargantua turned, spotting his ally, his eyes red with rage before applying pressure to his wrist. The son of Frankenstein released a roar of anguish before his stronger ally threw him with no effort. Gaira roared in pain as he landed with a thud across the forest, his ally reaching down and lifting Junior back to his feet.

Junior couldn’t believe what stood before him, it was another of his kind. Another Godzilla. The older mutant brushed the rubble off of him before releasing a small grunt. They wished to be allies.

Gaira got back to his feet, roaring before charging at his opponent, only for his brother to stop him mid-charge, standing in front of him with a stare telling his twin to stand down. Gaira came to a complete stop, snarling as his brother stood in his path. Sanda reached out, putting his hand on his sibling’s shoulder, and nodded. The Green Gargantua walked away, a proper challenge would appear soon. He just needed to wait.

The charcoal-colored Godzilla pointed towards the signal of their fellow guardians before releasing a roar. They needed to gather together and destroy the invaders once and for all. If they did not make this final stand, the world would fall and be brought to a crimson hellscape like that of the dawn of time.

Junior nodded, he agreed. Even if he was severely weakened, he wanted to be able to help as much as he could. But first, they needed to help save Anguirus. The young beast turned towards his friend’s signature, letting out a small whimper.

Godzilla looked towards where the young one looked, someone he knew was in danger. The planet’s defender snarled as he looked down before kicking some boulders into the forest. He couldn’t just ignore this plea for help, even if he wanted to. The older mutant nodded, agreeing to aid the young prince in saving his comrade, but they needed to hurry.

For Armageddon was upon them.

***

Ichor poured from the wounds as Anguirus struggled back to his feet, smoke billowing from his form as the resident of Skull Island stood his ground.

The hydra in front of him smiled as it chuckled with glee, seeing a lower life form in such anguish left a feeling of euphoria within the destroyer. First was this pathetic excuse for a defender, then it would track down the Knight and the Moth to exact revenge.

Flames surrounded the three maws once again before elemental power was unleashed upon the ankylosaur, screams of agony shouting to the heavens as the attack burned his scales.

Hina turned around, seeing Anguirus cling to life, desperately trying to do anything against his foe. Her heart sank at the thought of his demise, she had the power to end this and she was running away… it was pathetic.

“Hina…”

The young girl turned in every direction to find the origin of the voice but due to the ongoing battle and constant screaming it was hard to make it, yet it sounded familiar and in front of her, as real as the other voices that surrounded her…

“Hina, sweetheart…”

No it…it couldn’t be…

“I know you may be scared, but everything will be okay, those above us have sent me to help you. For a brief moment, I shall bear Amaterasu’s light.”

Hina’s eyes widened as tears began to flow from her eyes, her arm reaching out in front of her as a ghostly glow began to form in front of her, the identity of the voice being revealed to her with a warm smile.

“Mom?…”

“Oh how I have missed you. I’m sorry that this is how we reunite but I am so happy to see that my little girl has grown up.”

All time seemed to slow down as she was memorized in her mother’s presence, her attention completely taken away from the battle at hand, she had passed away almost four years ago now and yet she stood before her now holding out her hand to her.

“You wish to see the suffering of this animal stop, to save the one you love, and your brother…I would be a terrible mother if I didn’t help you now. My ray of sunshine.”

The ghostly figure began to get closer to her, her arms reaching out to her…

“Hina!” She snapped out of her daze, turning to see Hodaka grabbing her arm. “We have to go!”

She quickly turned back to the battle to see that her mother was gone once again, perhaps just like the suit of armor before Hodaka could not see her, the thought quickly disappearing as she returned her attention back to Hodaka.

Reaching out to him with her hand, gently placing it on his face, tears swelling up as she tried to find the words to say. To explain everything, to apologize for keeping it a secret, to justify it all but nothing would come to her mind.

And yet, that was her solution.

There was nothing she could say or do that would make this right to them. Keeping this secret for three years, from the people whom she held closest to her heart. She planted her feet in the ground, causing Hodaka to be pulled back by her sudden strength.

“Hina…” Hodaka cried out, concerned as to why she had stopped in her tracks, keeping her eyes peeled over the Titans clashing off in the distance.

“Hodaka, Nagi,” she spoke, turning back to them, sorrow painted all over her face as her hands fidgeted with each other.

“I’m sorry,” Hina apologized, her voice fading away, turning her back away from them once more as she took a few steps forward. “Nothing I can ever say or do would have made this right, but I realize sometimes doing nothing is the solution.”

“Hina… what are you talking about?” Nagi yelled out, trying to reach out to his sister, baffled at what she was trying to convey.

Hodaka held him back and went in his place, trying to reach out to her, but a strong gust of wind kept him at arm’s distance away from her. He attempted to fight back against the currents, but to no avail, he was powerless against the might of the invisible force before him.

“You saved my life, Hodaka, because of how you felt and how you couldn’t sit back,” Hina voiced, smiling at how she thought back to that fateful day of the two of them descending through the clouds.

A ray of sunlight shined directly on her while the powerful gusts of wind lifted the water from the puddles, allowing them to circle around her. Within seconds, the water created a forcefield around her while her mother’s ghostly figure wrapped her arms around the bubble, the light from the sun grew brighter and brighter, creating a blinding, yet reassuring, brilliant beacon of hope.

Above her, the air split apart into a glowing portal, a steel bird made of precious metals exiting. A sword and a circular object which glinted harshly in the light, something the boy assumed was a mirror. The two objects descended into the bubble, disappearing in the light.

Hodaka remained in a state of shock at the sight he was witnessing before him. Every muscle in his body was telling him to move, to pull Hina out of the cyclone that entrapped her, but he was powerless to do anything about it.

All he could think about was “No…. please. Not again. I can’t do this. Don’t take her away from us.”

Hina tilted her head slightly back, giving both him and Nagi one last smile. “This time, let me be the one who saves you. I’m just like you, I can’t sit back…. Even if nothing is the only option.”

The droplets of water, the high amounts of wind and the orange light circled around her intensively, going at speeds the naked eye couldn’t process until it let out a powerful shockwave. One that sent Hodaka and Nagi crashing down on their backs. They were dazed for just a few moments as they felt the cool winds no longer blowing on their skins.

Not worrying about the injuries he may have suffered from the blast, Hodaka jumped to his feet to check on the wellbeing of his girlfriend, but froze at the sight before him.

Hina was gone.

All that remained was a powerful knight clad in shiny silver and gold armor. One that inspired hope as electricity crackled through her fists. She took a step forward, observing the fight between Anguirus and Desghidorah as the three-headed demon was pulverizing the helpless defender. He didn’t have long, and Hina knew it. Whatever his reasons for being here, she knew Anguirus wasn’t the aggressor in this situation. There was a story that needed to be told from someone, and like several others, she saw the best in him.

Before taking another step forward, she held Utsuno’s left hand out, motioning for Hodaka not to follow. She regretted not staying with the two people she loved the most, but knew she’d regret it even more if she did nothing.

Utsuno took off, stumbling ever so slightly. Hina nearly gasped at all the extra weight she was carrying from this new body she was controlling. It was as if she was forced to pull several anvils behind her back, barely able to keep the mighty god upright. Still, she couldn’t let it stop her, not when there were so many lives at stake. The Space Warfare God’s “pilot” picked herself up as fast as they could, marching determinedly to quell this threat once and for all.

The sound of her steps echoed through the battlefield, causing both monsters to turn their attention to the new arrival. Desghidorah’s eyes widened as she approached, rage quickly consuming the hydra at the sight of the knight. Roars erupted from his three maws before charging straight at the one who was responsible for sealing him away so long ago.

Finally, he could exact his vengeance upon the holy warrior!

Electrical energy surrounded Utsuno’s fist before pulling it back and striking her adversary with a powerful blow, sending Desghidorah crashing into the city. Hina looked at her hand with amazement, so much power within her felt strange. She was just a human, and to wield such power she would have to tread carefully, one wrong move could be disastrous.

Anguirus stared at the knight as Desghidorah recovered, panting on the ground as blood flowed from his wounds. He needed to recover quickly and help against the hydra.

The embodiment of death once again charged at the knight, electrical energy surrounded his jaws before unleashing the Lava Gout Energy Bolts upon the usurper… only for the energy to slam into an invisible forcefield.

Hina raised her arm upward, energy surrounding her hand as it began to take form. Holy light engulfed the surrounding area, causing Desghidorah to screech with rage as he lost sight of his enemy. But before long the light had dissipated and was replaced with a blade in Utsuno’s hand.

Energy surrounded the blade as she got into a defensive position, waiting for her foe to make the first move. She was determined to take the demon’s life with one swing.

The ebony hydra stared at the knight as she made it back to her feet, something was off about this. Their last confrontation was a lot more aggressive and something about their energy was different, though he could not pinpoint the reason.

Either way, they would suffer his wrath!

The intergalactic hydra charged forward, all four powerful limbs breaking the concrete with ease as he picked up speed.

Utsuno swung her blade downward, hoping to slice through the heads in one swoop, only for Desghidorah to dodge out of the way and sink their fangs into the knight’s arm before sending millions of volts of electricity through their body.

Within the gem on the godly figure’s chest, Hina screamed in agony as she dropped her blade onto the ground, the sun goddess dropping to her knees before Desghidorah lifted with all of his might and threw her towards the city. Buildings being crushed in an instant as the Sunshine Girl crashed amongst the population.

Flames began to surround the dark copy’s maw when suddenly, Anguirus slammed into him with a Thunderball. Sparks were sent flying as Desghidorah released a screech of anguish and was pushed backward, the ankylosaur earning his full, undivided attention.

Anguirus released a roar at the hydra before leaping at him, aiming his maw at one of the demon’s necks before managing to land the attack. His fangs dug through his flesh with ease in an instant, causing the magma ichor to be released.

The Earth Defender screamed in pain as his maw burned, steam exiting his mouth as he quickly backed away from the wounded adversary. Desghidorah smiled before reaching out with his right and left heads, sinking his fangs into the beast’s hide, surging electrical energy through his body as the invader took to the sky.

Desghidorah’s middle head began to chuckle as Anguirus struggled to free himself, the ankylosaur roaring as he attempted to shake slash at their scales with his talons… only to be granted that wish.

The heads released their grip on the fire monster causing him to plummet to the earth. His mass picked up velocity as he descended to the surface, his eyes widening moments before crashing into the ground.

CRACK!

Spikes from Anguirus’ carapace snapped like twigs, blood erupting from his maw as the wind was knocked out of him. The ankylosaur struggled to breath as his vision became blurry, only seeing a black spot descending towards him.

Hina looked upon the fallen warrior as she rose back to her feet, rage quickly consuming the temporary goddess as she turned her attention to the one responsible. Desghidorah’s horrid laughter echoing through the battlefield as he aimed his weight towards the fallen, preparing to slam into his prey at full force.

“No!”

Energy surrounded Utsuno’s gem on top of her head before unleashing a beam of pure light at the demon, managing to strike it midair across the wing. Magma flew as Desghidorah unleashed a cry of anguish from his maws before crashing into the city.

Quickly Hina rushed over to the fallen, placing her hand on his neck to find a pulse.

“Oh thank god…”

Anguirus wheezed as blood continued to fall from his maw and nostrils, the last battle had already left him completely drained and now he was on the brink of death from another invader to his home.

No, not like this.

The dinosaur forced himself back to his feet, standing alongside the goddess of light as they awaited their enemy. Though perhaps facing him head on was not the proper tactic. Anguirus quickly began to dig into the earth, burrowing through the concrete and dirt with ease.

Utsuno stood still, her grip on her sword being tight as she awaited the next move.

A bellow of hatred erupted from the hydra as he rose back to his feet, magma flowing from the wound onto the ground, causing steel and concrete to melt instantly. The ebony demon snarled as he looked towards Utsuno Ikusagami, the knight charging at him while unleashing a battle cry.

Desghidorah followed in example, quickly charging forward and slamming into Utsuno’s chest. Pushing her back before attempting to sink their fangs into her arm once again, only to be met with her holy blade descending towards his mass.

The left head reached out, grabbing the blade by the jaws before pulling. Hina was brought closer to the threat, causing the right head to land their blow, properly getting ahold of the warrior’s arm once more. Energy surged through her as she struggled to free herself from his grasp, only to be met with flames from the middle.

The hellfire washed over Utsuno’s head in an instant, Hina screamed in agony as she felt the wrath of the elements. The onslaught of flames continued as she fell to her knees, the pain being everlasting within her immortal body.

BOOM!

The earth behind the hydra erupted into the sky, the landscape falling to the ground like rain as the tenacious ankylosaur emerged. He roared as he landed on top of the demon, causing him to cease the attack.

Utsuno dropped to the ground as Desghidorah’s grip was released, her hands keeping her off the ground as smoke rose from her form.

The hydra roared with fury as he shook his entire body, attempting to force Anguirus off of him as the fire monster ripped into the wyrm’s scales. Magma flowed from the wounds and burned the last resident of Skull Island, but the pain mattered little to him. This warrior had gone out of their way to save his life, he would not simply allow them to be slain by the ebony demise!

Desghidorah’s right head reached backward and snapped at Anguirus’ arm, attempting to sink his fangs into his attacker. Only for Anguirus to puff in his chest before releasing a howl directly into the enemy’s face, deafening the head in an instant. The limb screeched in agony as his ears began to bleed. Hot magma flowed onto the ground as he finally had enough, spreading open his wings to knock the ankylosaur off of him.

Anguirus released another howl as he slammed to the ground, quickly attempting to get back on his feet only to have fangs sink into his tail. Ichor flowed in between the teeth as he was lifted into the air and slammed into the ground, the process repeating as the Earth Defender released cries of anguish into the sky.

Hina stumbled to her feet, her eyes within the divinity of light widening as she witnessed her ally. Without a second thought she held out her hand, energy surrounding it before forming into a spear of light.

The demon had his back turned to her, surely he would fall to this blow!

Utsuno pulled back her arm and aimed the attack at the demon’s hide before throwing the projectile with all of her might…

Desghidorah’s left head quickly turned around as the projectile approached, opening their maw and managing to catch it.

“WHAT!?”

The demon’s middle head smirked as the left head threw back the holy weapon, aiming to destroy the sun goddess with her own attack.

“NO NO NO!”

Quickly, Hina formed a barrier in front of herself. Ancient runes were emblazoned upon it, all of her might being put into this one defense. The spear slammed into the barrier, initiating an explosion to engulf the area. A shockwave rippled through the area like a rock through a lake, causing the battlefield to shake violently from the blast.

Desghidorah dropped Anguirus onto the ground, the copy turning his attention to his nemesis. Dust and smoke covered his view from discovering their fate, the hydra snarled in frustration as he stared.

The ankylosaur looked through the dust, attempting to spot the knight the best he could. His vision had become blurry due to the massive beating and loss of blood, bones felt shattered and organs felt as if they were going to burst, but with every breath he continued to cling onto life.

Within the dust the sound of something moving was heard before Utsuno charged forward, sword in hand as she attempted to finally put down the darkened hydra.

The left head of the ancient menace once again sank its fangs into Anguirus’ tail, causing the fire monster’s eyes to widen as the already broken limb was shredded, flesh hanging by threads. He let out a blood-curdling cry as he was lifted into the air and then thrown at the holy knight.

His mass slammed into the goddess and caused the pair to collapse onto the ground. The two attempted to quickly get back to their feet as flames surrounded Desghidorah’s maws…

***

They watched the holy knight Hina turned into as she fought valiantly alongside Anguirus against the three-headed demon. Hodaka, with every fiber 0f his being wished he was capable of becoming something like her or could do anything to save her life, but alas, he was at a loss. All he could do was protect Nagi once more.

Despite the astonishing power she now wielded, they couldn’t help but notice both her and the Earth Defender were on the brink of defeat. The ancient dragon was far too much for them to handle. He cringed at seeing Anguirus cry out in agonizing pain from the beast’s flame breaths. The last of the Skull Island resident’s skin slowly melted while his blood boiled at the intense heat Desghidorah was generating.

Utsuno limped over, attempting to generate a shield to protect her ally and herself from the overwhelming firepower, but it was of no use. She was immediately met by the dragon of darkness’ crushing force of crackling electricity, effectively paralyzing them as they writhed on the earth from the energy coursing throughout their bodies.

It was getting too much for them to watch, but they couldn’t compel themselves to take her advice and run. They couldn’t leave her behind.

For all they knew, this could very well be the last time they see her.

Desghidorah ceased his assault, admiring his handiwork as he saw his two foes at their breaking point. Anguirus, this rudimentary creature, was drifting in and out of consciousness. His burns were severe, several of his spikes were either broken off or melted, and his tail was nearly split in half. All the while the dragon of darkness grinned at Utsuno’s injuries as she was on her knees while her left hand was placed on the ground. He couldn’t see any emotion in the knight’s face, but deep down, Desghidorah knew all she had was fear and failure.

And he relished in it.

He had waited a long time for this day and now it had arrived.

And the fun had only just begun.

Opening all three maws, flames brewed in his throats as he took aim at his injured foes. They would feel his wrath once more and will crave for death, but it would not come for them. Instead, he intended to repay Utsuno for the suffering inflicted upon him all those years ago.

The flames erupted from his maws, racing towards the two wounded heroes, but were cut off by two atomic blasts. One blue and the other purple, moving as if they danced around each other before landing on their destinations. From the blasts of the impact, two of Desghidorah’s projectiles were sent off course, forcing their flames to melt a city block instead. Only one remained, setting the two ablaze, however, it didn’t last long as a sharp projectile was sent crashing into it.

With a gurgled cry, Desghidorah’s affected head immediately ceased its flames and instead unleashed a volley of magma from its mouth, melting everything below him. Utsuno tilted her head up, curious at what caused her executioner’s attack to cease, only to find a horn of some sort lodged through the left head’s throat. She watched as he gagged on the blade while magma ichor still continuously poured out of its mouth. The other two heads immediately took their attention away from them and towards their wounded comrade, desperately trying to pull the horn out of his maw.

Anguirus stirred himself awake, trying to piece together what caused this new development. He looked over at Utsuno, curious if she was the culprit behind their foe’s suffering, but she seemed as puzzled as he was. Instead, he heard a roar of encouragement.

The Earth Defender slowly turned his head around to see the impossible.

It was Junior.

And he wasn’t alone.

With him were two hairy humanoids. One brown and the other green, clad in some kind of armor that he couldn’t make out. Perhaps once he recovered, he could properly identify it, but it didn’t matter right now.

Then, the sight that really shocked him was…..

“Godzilla!?” Nagi blared out.

“But…. he’s dead!” Hodaka added in disbelief, watching as he saw the mighty King of the Monsters standing before them with the other ghosts.

“It was said both Gargantuas perished from a volcanic eruption and Godzilla died of his wounds nearly twenty years ago. This was general knowledge!” Nagi called out, watching the two siblings survey the area while the two Godzillas kept an eye on the wounded Desghidorah.

“If they’re here to save Hina, then I’m glad they survived,” Hodaka simply voiced out, his words invoking a sense of relief to himself, watching as they made no move against her nor Anguirus.

“Well, Gaira seems to have his mind set on other things,” Nagi pointed out, shifting their eyes towards the Green Gargantua as they attempted to reach down for a couple of fleeing civilians. However, the commands of his stomach could not be matched by his older brother as he was smacked upside the head, telling him to let them go. Gaira snarled, but kept his composure, keeping his eyes peeled on the now recovering dragon.

Desghidorah, finally getting the right grip on the situation, yanked the horn out, now drenched in red ichor. He screamed at the sky. That puny blade hurt more than anything the two of them unleashed upon him and he wanted to know the source of this. Desghidorah’s three pairs of eyes tilted up to see his opposers now outnumbered him six to one.

The ancient dragon snarled. He welcomed a challenge, but that horn complicated matters for him. He was essentially down a head, as plasma still leaked out of its maw.

No matter.

What were a few more peasants to a god?

Anguirus lifted his head up weakly, every inch of his body was in agonizing pain, but what he saw reignited the fire in his body. The fire that inspired him to get back up and see this through the end.

The two he helped raise over the years, training them everything he knew and making sure they were always safe. His priority. Now stood before him, grown up and ready to face the world head on.

His children.

The two Godzillas, without even having to communicate, lit up with their dorsal fins and shot them out at the three-headed terror once more, eliciting a cry of annoyance. Their combined firepower pushed the dragon while the two Gargantuas took advantage of the opportunity presented to them. Sanda grabbed the horn, keeping up with his brother on the other side of Desghidorah as they ran around behind him.

Gaira channeled all of the strength in his body, unleashing a powerful shriek before grabbing a hold of Desghidorah’s tail, preventing any attempt to escape. With the all out assault currently taking place, Sanda took the opportunity and leapt onto the dark dragon’s back. Not even wasting a second of time, the Brown Gargantua repeatedly jabbed the horn into its back, earning several screams of anguish from the unholy beast. Streaks of magma oozed out, slightly burning Sanda’s fingertips. He snarled at the burning sensation, but ignored it as he focused on trying to find the right place to stab. If he could find the right spot, then maybe, just maybe, he could paralyze this abomination and bring the fight to a quick and swift end without any more suffering.

Their atomic blasts ceased, taking a moment to look at their wounded comrades. The silver knight before them slowly got to her feet while Anguirus shook his head and looked up. The ankylosaur couldn’t stop expressing his happiness at seeing how far the two had come, but more importantly, how they were still here. Even after he thought he lost them.

Anguirus let out a joyful honk at Junior, earning a playful roar back from the juvenile. The fire monster then looked back at the grown-up Godzilla, someone he hadn’t seen in over a decade. He was the spitting image of his father and already had the attitude of a champion, rallying his own army against a monster of evil.

The world couldn’t be in better hands.

Anguirus slowly crawled over to the two, patting Junior on the shoulders, roaring softly at the kid, ensuring he was glad to see him. The fire monster then glanced at Minilla and despite what stood before him, he still couldn’t help but see that playful baby he had helped watch over all those years. Without any warning, Anguirus stood on his hind legs and hugged Godzilla.

His life and everything he held dear was taken away from him days ago, but fate decided to give him a second chance. Anguirus wouldn’t let it go to waste and held onto his old friend even longer as Godzilla returned the favor by patting him on the head.

Godzilla let out a roar of relief, overjoyed at seeing his friend still the same as ever. Never losing hope even in the darkest of times and being a loyal companion to the end.

The Prince of the Monsters ushered out a command, notifying the others that the reunion would have to be on pause as the threat still remained. The four regained their footing as they analyzed Desghidorah thrashing about from the Gargantuas’ assault, readying to make their next move.

His father had told stories of his battles with a golden hydra from the stars, a fierce rival that would always force the King of the Monsters to join arms with others; it was poetic that the first beast he was to fight was another of that one’s kind.

Perhaps their two races were always meant to meet in war, destined to slaughter each other until the last members of their species perished.

Godzilla unleashed a roar into the sky before charging forward, the others following closely behind as they let out battle cries, causing Desghidorah to take notice of the approaching group. Rage built up as the two Gargantuas continued their assault, a pathetic gesture compared to the raw power he possessed. He stood up on his two back legs momentarily, forcing Sanda to fall off of his back and into Gaira, the two releasing groans as they slammed into each other.

Flames surrounding the ebony hydra’s maw built up in temperature as the demon returned to the ground, the three heads firing at the group in unison. Junior and Utsuno quickly dodged to the side to evade damage, but Anguirus had been through two major battles in a matter of days. His strength was not the same as it was in his prime, though he attempted to move out of the blast, he was simply not fast enough…

Godzilla quickly jumped in front of the flames, letting out cries of pain as he blocked the attack’s path, Anguirus’ eyes widened with fear as he let out a cry to the grown prince, fear taking over his mind as his old friend was in pain for his sake. Desghidorah’s three maws smiled as they continued the attack, the super darkness dragon feeling immense pride rush through his mind as this world’s champions were nothing before his might.

But then Godzilla took several steps forward, his hands covering his eyes as all three flames aimed directly at him, the pain being immense but the adrenaline and rage pushing the prince forward. The hydra raised the temperatures as the nuclear saurian pushed through his attack, his spines flashing purple as he finally reached out, wrapping his hands around the enemy’s maw before unleashing his Atomic Blast point blank.

The power of the atom overcame Desghidorah’s flames and engulfed his middle head swiftly, the dragon of darkness screaming as the other two heads continued their assault, Godzilla’s will being unbreakable even as his flesh was burned with temperatures comparable to a volcano. Anguirus watched in amazement at the young one’s determination, once again reminding him of his father as they faced off against King Ghidorah and Gigan decades ago.

Junior’s spines flashed a bright azure before unleashing his Atomic Blast at the destroyer, striking true on the beast’s hide, sending the hydra through the environment until the young Godzillasaurus ceased his assault. Godzilla charged at the downed hydra in an instant, rage erupting from within as he repeatedly kicked the downed invader, roaring with each strike, his eyes glowing red with rage.

No matter what he would defend the innocent! Human, Titan, God, Mortal; It did not matter what they were as long as they called out, he would answer! He would show them a better tomorrow just as his father had, because he is King!

Sanda slowly got up to his feet as he witnessed the entire act Godzilla had performed. He smiled at the act of heroism he performed to save the others despite the severe burns he received. Even if he wasn’t his own flesh and blood, he couldn’t be more proud than to witness a champion before him. Sanda noticed the orange-stained horn a few feet next to him and placed it firmly in his hand.

Even if Godzilla was a hero, he couldn’t do this alone. Sanda scanned the area for his newfound allies when all he heard was laughter. His head snapped over to his brother already on his feet, laughing at the display before him. The benevolent Gargantua shook his head and grumbled at his brother’s reaction to the beatdown.

Sanda marched over and smacked Gaira over the head, immediately ceasing his laughter. The Green Gargantua shrieked out in response to his brother, but Sanda let out a roar of his own, ushering a command to assist in the battle. Gaira mumbled before marching over as Sanda soon followed suit, letting out a small chuckle at the display before him.

Utsuno struggled to stay on her feet from the combined weight of her own body and the injuries she had endured prior. Yet, she couldn’t back down now, not when the others were still fighting strong. She heard a small roar and glanced over at the juvenile. His body was shaking just like hers, but he still had a lot of fight left in him. She stared right at him, seeing the fear, yet determination in his eyes.

They were both afraid. Not only of the behemoth before them, but what would happen if they failed. They had a lot on the line and that’s all it took. For them to both understand each other.

The two young heroes watched as Desghidorah slowly regained his strength while the King of the Monsters was still kicking him down. Unbeknownst to them, Desghidorah smirked at the juvenile still laying into him. His arrogance cost him greatly as his right head slunk over to his leg and sunk its fangs into his legs, transmitting electricity into his body. Godzilla immediately cried out in pain, ceasing his assault on the three-headed being as he turned his attention to the head. However, Desghidorah’s middle head unleashed a powerful flame breath, scorching Godzilla’s entire head and earning a scream that shocked the entire Earth.

The two dueling kaiju traded places as Godzilla fell while Desghidorah rose. The dark dragon ushered out a cackle, watching Godzilla roll around on the ground in complete agony over the scorching heat covering his entire head. With his remaining two heads, Desghidorah sunk his jaws deep into Godzilla’s flesh, earning a childish squeal, one Anguirus was all too familiar with.

Anguirus shivered at the torture his child was going through as he moved his feet forward, doing anything he could to save him. However, his body completely broke! His limbs felt numb while his jaw hit the earth. The only bits of his body that could move were his heart, reminding him he was still alive, and his eyes to watch one of the most disgusting things he had seen in his life.

The Old Warrior cursed at himself at how he couldn’t do anything to save Minilla.

He failed.

Not just Minilla, but everyone he held dear to his heart.

This was the day he was gonna lose it all.

SHREEONK!

Anguirus’ head momentarily perked up to hear a more energized roar and see Junior racing like an arrow towards the dark dragon. Junior crashed into Desghidorah, earning a roar of anger, taking his attention away from the downed King of the Monsters and onto the juvenile.

Desghidorah stared deeply into the eyes of Godzilla Junior, hoping he’d find fear in his eyes, but to his disappointment only ones of defiance. He snarled, he would teach this welp what it meant to fear! Two maws opened up, intending to set the child ablaze, but instead screams were heard. Deghidorah’s heads watched as an energy spear hurled from far away tore through his chest, giving Godzilla Junior the opening he needed as his spines sparkled blue. He felt the energy surging through his entire body, feeling this would be the biggest output of atomic energy he ever produced.

Without wasting another second, Junior opened his jaws wide and let out the concentrated beam of azure atomic energy, searing not through any of his heads, but through his right wing. He concentrated all of his energy on the bone structure connecting it to the rest of their body. Desghidorah unleashed another howl of agony, turning his attention towards Junior and deciding he was not worth making suffer. Instead, he fully intended to kill the brat here and now.

Desghidorah charged his blasts once again, aiming them right at the distracted Junior’s head. Without any waste of time, he shot them out, intending for them to race towards their target, but instead their heads jerked straight up. Utsuno landed directly in front of the dragon, allowing her to cleave her mighty sword through the left wing of the dragon as if it were made of butter.

Both wings dropped to the ground simultaneously, not even allowing Desghidorah to be shocked at what had just transpired, but to still be reeling over the intense pain he was feeling.

How!?

The young warriors stood before them, side by side, seemingly proud of their accomplishment in the fight despite both of them feeling drained. They used up the last bit of energy they had to bring the dragon of darkness to where he was now. Whatever happened to them now, it was up to the others to finish the fight. They knew they weren’t going to win this, but at the very least, they could lead others to victory.

The two didn’t even attempt to evade as they both knew their bodies wouldn’t let them as Desghidorah bellowed, one far louder than any other he had ever unleashed. These two had cost him nearly everything and he was going to make sure they paid for it. Unleashing two flame breaths, forcing them to the ground as Junior cried out from his entire body burning up. Hina, on the other hand, couldn’t usher out those same cries, but instead, had to endure the pain in the silence. Yet, her body commanded her to commit one more act in this battle.

Utsuno gripped her sword tightly as she lifted it to match the raging flames. Before, Desghidorah would have smirked at the pitiful display, but they just wanted the two youth dead and instead increased the intensity of their flames. Summing up the last of her energy, she yanked her arm back and threw the sword directly at the dragon’s left head, decapitating it in an instant.

The pain once again forced Desghidorah to cease his assault and to take a moment to tend to its wounds, forcing its two remaining heads to cry out in pure agony. Utsuno laid on her back, looking deeply into Junior’s eyes. Ones that were grateful for everything she had done for him before drifting off into unconsciousness.

She didn’t have to understand him for her to know he was appreciative of saving his life, as the silence and knowing he was still alive was all that mattered to her. Utsuno soon followed her comrade’s journey, knowing her newfound friends would be able to save the day.

“I told you it would be okay, Hodaka,” Hina murmured, looking at the blue sky peering through the darkness above her.“I kept my promise that I would save us.”

***

Hodaka violently shook as he dropped to the ground, anxiety taking control as he stared at Hina’s unconscious body, a ringing echoing through his ears as Nagi grabbed him by the shoulders.

“Hodaka!” Tears swelled before coming down his cheek as his friend shook him. “Hodaka, she will be fine! She has Minilla and the others to get her out of there!”

Nagi tried his hardest to stay strong, the adult in the situation was now breaking down in front of him and his sister had been badly injured by Desghidorah, all of his hope being put into the new defenders of the planet.

Hodaka looked back up, quickly wrapping his hands around the boy and hugging him tightly, he was the adult and the child was being the stronger of the two. Disappointment rushed through him as he let go of Nagi and got back to his feet, watching as the four monsters surrounded the fire demon.

“You said that is Minilla, right? How do you figure that?

Nagi smiled as he turned his attention back to the action, wiping away a tear before explaining. “His Atomic Breath is purple, Godzilla’s was blue. Explains why a ghost has returned from the grave,” Nagi paused, turning his attention to Minilla slowly getting back up to his feet and brushing the remaining flames off of his body. “It’s his son. The new King of the Monsters.”

“I didn’t even notice the color change, I was too drawn into the battle itself.”

The two continued to observe the conflict, fully drawn into the battle now more than ever. Hina had made history by helping against the demon, now they were obligated to see this to the end.

***

Magma flowed from open wounds across Desghidorah’s form, his back covered in the molten liquid while the stump that once was a head poured out like a geyser.

The hydra turned his form towards the approaching Gargantua brothers, the pair roaring as they charged in to aid their allies. It was enough time for games, these pests had ruined his fun and gravely injured him, now they would suffer the wrath of a Supernova. The two remaining heads unleashed a cry as the injured demon charged forward, slamming his bulk into the pair at full speed, knocking them to the ground.

Desghidorah raised his form into the air before slamming his feet into the downed duo, earning a cry of pain as bones were crushed like toothpicks, flames surrounded the demon’s maw once more. Rage fuelled him as he wished to silence these children quickly and heal from his injuries, the Knight had fallen but the Moth and the others still had to pay!

The flames missed their downed targets as something tugged his form backward, causing the flames to merely scorch the earth in front of the spawns of Frankenstein. The pair quickly made it to their feet, their adrenaline forcing them to recover or die, the pair cheering as they saw what was responsible for their survival.

Godzilla stood tall, smoke rising from his form as his hands were wrapped around the demon’s tail, his eyes a blood red fueled with rage and determination to slay the abomination before him. It sought to end life on this planet, just as many others had attempted before him, and like those invaders he would die to earth’s protectors!

Atomic energy climbed up his dorsal spines, flashing purple once more before the mighty king unleashed a beam of energy directly at the demon’s back, causing Desghidorah to scream in pain as the power of the atom assaulted him. The middle head turned its attention to behind his form, seeing what was causing his pain. Flames surrounded his maw once more, only for Sanda to jump in and grab the powerful limb and aim it towards the ground.

The flames scorched the ground, engulfing it with the element. Sanda screeched in pain but continued to hold his stand, struggling to lift his free hand into the air to strike his opponent with his knife. The blade glowed orange as the heat of Desghidorah activated the horn’s natural bioillumination, Sanda roaring as he forced the blade into the demon’s flesh repeatedly, magma flying with each strike.

Desghidorah’s right head attempted to intervene, only for Gaira to grab the limb and sink his fangs into the demon’s flesh, magma flowing from the wound and burning his face. Adrenaline forced Gaira to continue the assault, the Green Gargantua thrashed his head violently back and forth, silently screeching in agony as he continued the attack.

The dark dragon had enough, managing to swing his head and throw the aquatic spawn off of him, crashing into the ground on his back with a groan of pain. As Gaira attempted to get back up to his feet, the hydra quickly retaliated, shooting out flames at him. The humanoid screamed in anguish as the element washed over his form, burning flesh with ease.

Sanda relinquished his hold, crying out to his brother as he watched the flames burn him. Desghidorah quickly reached out, sinking his fangs into Sanda’s arm and throwing him into the air, the Brown Gargantua screaming before crashing into the ground.

Godzilla released a rage fueled roar to the heavens before mustering all of his strength into lifting the demonic serpent, the dragon of darkness screeching as the mighty mutant managed to lift him into the air before slamming him into the earth, earth flying into the air as the newly crowned King continued the action.

The bigfoot of the mountains quickly charged to the fallen Gaira, his heart sinking as he witnessed his unconscious brother, smoke rising from his form and his flesh severely burned. His hair burned into a pitch black amongst his now broken armor, Sanda reached down to his fallen brother’s neck. It was to check his pulse, the colossus letting out a sigh of relief that at the very least he was alive.

Though his relief quickly became rage as he turned his attention back to the battle, this demon had dared harm his kin and for that he would pay with his life. The Brown Gargantua looked around the battlefield for his weapon, seeing it dropped near the demon, the humanoid immediately darting for the dagger.

Godzilla ceased his attack on Desghidorah before circling around the demon, the hydra letting out a roar of rage as he made it back to his feet, attempting to turn and blast the nuclear saurian with flames, only to be met with a flurry of strikes from the monster king. Each punch pushed the demon back before both heads recoiled and then struck his form, sending the mutant flying into the air before crashing into the ground.

As the new Godzilla bounced back to his feet he noticed the fallen knight, the mutant spotting the blade that was stuck into the ground near the heroic figure. His father had told him once that he managed to unlock a new ability to bring down his mechanical doppelganger, capable of changing the course of the battle in an instant.

Perhaps he too could do the same, Godzilla reached out to the blade attempting to lift it with the power of magnetism to no avail…only for the storm above him to react, lightning striking the earth, causing Godzilla to turn his attention to the sky.

He had not even noticed the darkened skies as the conflict continued, his focus being in the battle. However, something was off about the storm above him. It didn’t feel natural, the energy source being similar to Desghidorah’s, but slightly different.

Was this the power of the one he sensed while in the Hollow Earth? The being who challenged the entire planet and demanded it bend to their will? If that was the case then perhaps he could use their power against the beast that stood in front of him.

Godzilla roared to the heavens, demanding that the elements bend to his will, the king requiring power to end this conflict once and for all.

Moments passed and there was no answer, only puffing clouds within the storm glowing golden.

Then a yellow bolt struck his form, energy coursing through his veins in an instant, a new found power being unlocked by the new king. Godzilla quickly returned his attention to the Knight’s blade, reaching out to it, beckoning it to his hand.

The sword moved ever so slightly, moving across the ground and losing its placement, lightning striking Godzilla once again as he roared out to the weapon. This time he called the blade swiftly to his hand, the mighty king raised it into the sky before unleashing a battle cry as he opened up his other hand.

The ruins across the battlefield began to float in the air, the metallic materials surrounding him before aiming his hand towards the destroyer, the element answering his call and charging directly at Desghidorah’s neck as he switched from magnetically pulling to repulsing.

Sanda quickly grabbed his own blade as Desghidorah approached, flames surrounding his maw to quickly finish off this nuisance, only for metal to wrap around his right neck, the projectiles choking him and ceasing the assault. Magma flowed from the wound as the metals began to saw their way through the demon’s throat, the middle head crying out as he turned his attention to the now charging Godzilla, the sword of the Knight in hand aimed at his chest.

Before the demon could react, the blade was lunged into flesh, stabbing directly through the torso and out of the back. Magma flew across the battlefield as Godzilla landed his mark, smirking with pride as he managed to horribly wound the demon. He attempted to force the blade upward only for the middle head to knock him back.

Magma flowed from Desghidorah’s form as he struggled to stand, the right head of the beast finally falling to the ground as the melting metal cut through the limb. The last head was filled with anxiety as he watched the mighty king and the Brown Gargantua stand side by side, these peasants had brought them down to this… what a joke.

He was going to die… the pain and suffering of those he inflicted was now going to consume him, the endless darkness awaiting for him.

And yet, the fire still burned in his very body. He refused to die alone, and their champion would be the perfect one to take with him. Ignoring the tremendous pain the sword brought him by still being lodged in his chest, Desghidorah ignited his maw and unleashed massive waves of fire at the King of the Monsters.

Godzilla immediately shrieked at the scorching flames once again coating his body, he used his arms to shield himself, but it wouldn’t last long. Even in his weakened state, Desghidorah was still a dangerous threat, but he wasn’t in much of a position to overcome the dark dragon quickly.

The King of the Monsters took a deep breath in, knowing there was only one way this could end. It was something his father did, so the same was to be expected of him. If he wanted to carry out his legacy and to be the champion this world needed, then there was no other way. Godzilla pushed forward, eliciting several roars of defiance as he pushed through the scorching flames.

The Destroyer of Worlds was close yet so far as Godzilla pushed forward despite his vision becoming more obscured in darkness. Godzilla’s heart raced as he was starting to have doubts if he would even make it to Desghidorah.

Desghidorah’s mind lit up briefly at witnessing Godzilla beginning to fall. Despite losing, it brought him comfort knowing this hero would die with him. The world and these peasants will be crushed by his demise and he will be remembered as an everlasting threat that would haunt them forever.

MAAAARONK!!!!!

Desghidorah’s right eye shifted over to the loud bellow as he saw a large ball covered in spikes shoot towards him midair!

No! How could he have survived!? He was dead!

Desghidorah felt his own cold, black heart race in fear as his eyes widened. The dark dragon turned his attention away from the near collapsing Godzilla and directed his flames on Anguirus. The scorching heat was enough to make anyone steer clear, but compared to the last few days, this was just a meager attempt compared to the vast amount of beatings he had accumulated.

Anguirus’ Thunderball pushed through the flames and slammed right through the hilt of Utsuno’s blade, sending it straight through Desghidorah’s chest and out his back. The flames turned into embers sparkling out before ceasing entirely.

Desghidorah gasped for air, feeling the entirety of his strength being sapped away. Even to the point where his joints buckled underneath his own weight as he crashed to the ground. He lied motionlessly, with only enough strength to tilt his vision up slightly to see the battered Anguirus standing before him. Despite his handiwork of scorch marks all over the body, along with long streaks of blood running down and several spikes missing, he was still standing above him.

How could he have lost?

He was modeled after one of the most powerful beings in the universe and was even meant to surpass it, and yet, this was his executioner?

It wasn’t fair.

Anguirus let out a roar of pure rage, not wanting to let this demon die in peace, raced over and placed his hands on Desghidorah’s jaw. The mimic panicked, not because of the impending pain, but at how he would die to such a primitive creature. A weakened and old being, one that should have died a long time ago.

It wasn’t fair!

The Fire Monster screamed to the heavens as he pulled back the upper half of Desghidorah’s head and ripped his bottom jaw off with all of his might, dragging it all the way to the bottom of his neck. Magma poured out, allowing Desghidorah to unleash a gurgled cry of the immense pain he was feeling before his reign of terror ended.

Once a tyrant of darkness, now a crying pretender who would have never amounted to the heights of who he was modeled after. Desghidorah’s eyes watered as he looked Anguirus in his, pure hatred ran in them.

IT WASN’T FAIR!

Anguirus slammed the mimic’s head down on the ground as he watched the last moments of his life go by. The darkened sky he created was no longer visible, but instead the creature’s elbow crashing down before him.

SPLOOSH!

What remained of Desghidorah’s head splattered across the earth, causing the dark dragon’s movements to cease entirely. Anguirus took several deep breaths in and out, relieved at knowing the immediate danger was dealt with.

Every fiber of his body was telling him to crash, however, he couldn’t just yet. He needed to know, to know they were safe. His eyes scanned to the right, watching as the Brown Gargantua was tending to his brother while his eyes darted over to the wounded knight and Junior. Fear washed over him immediately, but knew it was just the adrenaline talking, noticing their bodies still stirring.

SHREEONK!

Anguirus snapped his head over to the loud, victorious roar of his old friend. Despite the injuries he accumulated, Godzilla still stood proud as he marched over to him. Anguirus honked quietly, relieved to know that everyone made it out alright. As the two made contact, Anguirus’ body couldn’t handle it anymore. He passed out in front of his friend, causing Godzilla to place his hands over him. The King of the Monsters sighed with relief, still feeling a pulse on his old friend’s body. Godzilla chuckled, having to remind himself that he was not only a fighter, but a survivor.

With a flash of light composed of orange and blue, Utsuno’s body flashed, gaining the attention of Sanda and Godzilla. What they saw was a girl lying on the ground as if all of her energy was drained from her body. Sanda’s mind lit up like a lightbulb, realizing she was the one assisting them in the battle. He ushered out a roar to Godzilla telling him to assist in Gaira’s recovery.

The Brown Gargantua raced over to the girl and gently placed her in his palm. He admired her beauty and the kindred spirit she displayed despite not being conscious. It reminded him of his old caretaker, Akemi Mizumi, who practically raised him as if he were her only child.

Before he could figure out what to do, he heard voices calling out.

“Hina!”

“Hina!”

Sanda snapped his head over and off to the distance, he saw two boys screaming at the top of their lungs in fear. His eyes widened, realizing what they thought he was going to do. The Brown Gargantua knew he couldn’t do much to keep her safe at the moment, but her friends could as he immediately raced over to them.

His footsteps caused Hodaka and Nagi to nearly drop to the ground as they kept their eyes on the approaching Gargantua. Sanda soon stopped in front of them, staring at them as they still kept their eyes trained on them. Despite knowing Sanda’s history, they couldn’t help but feel nervous around the gentle giant. With a huff, Sanda lowered his hand down and placed Hina gently on the ground, allowing the two to immediately race over to her.

Hodaka looked up to Sanda, who still kept his eyes on him, and spoke up “Thank you.”

Sanda simply nodded, relieved to know they were not only safe but that they knew he could be trusted around them. The Brown Gargantua soon turned back and raced towards his comrades, wanting to assist Godzilla in any way he could.

None of them may realize it, but through the demon they vanquished they were now in this together. For the worst had yet begun.

***

Rain pelted her face as she slowly opened her eyes. Hina laid there motionlessly, watching the dark gray clouds hover over while the water continued to pour down. The sensation was cold and hollow, but she didn’t object to it. She just continued to lie there, letting the rain continue to hit her while the green grass provided her with a sense of comfort equivalent to a comfy mattress.

A huff was heard.

Her head perked up ever so slightly as she saw a figure moving through the darkness. It didn’t take long before it revealed itself. The juvenile saurian let out a small roar as it spotted her, walking slowly towards her.

“The kid? What was he doing here? How is he not hurt?”

She continued to eye him, noticing the small lip with every step he took, but didn’t seem to bother him. Instead, he squatted, lowering his head near the holy knight. He opened his maw as she saw the blue energy channeling its form in his throat.

Hina didn’t flinch at what Junior was about to do and awaited the inevitable. The juvenile Godzilla let out the atomic energy from his mouth as it crashed next to her, blowing specs of the earth past her.

Nothing pierced her skin, but what she felt was a great deal of warmth from the cool winds. Initially she was confused by the harmful radiation the blue flames would give off, but she didn’t feel threatened by it. She welcomed it.

And yet, the flame was slowly going out from the neverending storm. Hina gave Junior a concerned look as his efforts were about to be futile from the cyclone.

A murmur was then heard as Hina found herself being casted by shadow, however, it was not from the clouds. Hina was puzzled, no longer feeling the drops of water crashing down on her. The avatar glanced upwards to see Sanda shielding her from the storm, giving her a look of comfort, vowing to protect her at all costs.

A loud shriek was then heard, startling Hina while footsteps synched up to her racing heart.

“Was that demon still alive?”

The flame let out a shriek of its own, sparking her attention. What she saw surprised her. It was several pounds of food, ranging from different types of meat to vegetables being engulfed in flame. Hina turned her head to find the culprit to be Gaira, who looked down at her, not with hunger, but of determination.

“It doesn’t want to eat me?”

Hina glanced at the food cooking in the fire and then back at the Green Gargantua.

“It wants to take care of me.”

Then, a mighty roar was heard. A roar that challenged the powerful storm as she saw Godzilla marching his way towards the group. The atomic saurian let out his infamous roar nonstop as if he was trying to make conversation. The former Prince of the Monsters sat beside Hina, letting out smaller roars as if he was checking up on her.

Despite their language barrier, she could understand what he was trying to say to her. Hina chuckled at the attempt to speak.

“I’m doing alright. Thank you for asking.”

Godzilla nodded his head as he then scratched his nose, earning another snicker from the holy knight.

Then, Hina nearly gasped when she felt her whole body being wrapped around by a tail. Her heart raced briefly, trying to piece together what was attacking her only to find it to be Anguirus. Hina felt her body pressed up against his hide, bringing her a sense of comfort and relief. The fire monster ushered out a small roar, allowing her to use his body as a pillow.

Unlike the others, whom she felt a great sense of belonging with, none of them were like Anguirus. The two clicked somehow as if they had a full understanding of each other. Both saw each other as warriors who never backed down, caregivers who always put others over themselves and a friend who would always be there.

“You’ve done well for your first bout, but you still have much to learn.”

Hina’s eyes widened at the voice. The one she hadn’t heard in over three years. The voice that ushered in commands and yet terrified her all the same.

“Enjoy this while it lasts, because they will be taken from you.”

“I…. no…. This can’t be taken away. I finally figured…..”

“No. You have not. The consequences will arrive in due time and only then will you fully master this curse. Those in the afterlife will not rest until you do. ”

One by one, her friends disappeared back into the roaring storm, she struggled to cry out.

“No. Please! Not them. Take me! Please!”

Only one remained as she watched their body slowly fade away as tears welled in her eyes. She lunged onto the kaiju, trying to pull on them with all of her strength to keep them from going as her muscles were inflamed. Her body ached, but she ignored it, she wouldn’t lose him, not him or anyone else ever again.

“DON’T!”

Hina jolted up only to find herself pulled slightly back by tubes injected into her left arm. She breathed in and out, realizing she was no longer in the howling storm, but in a sterile room. Hina took a moment to collect herself and to let herself drop onto her back, on the soft cushiony bed she was propped up on.

“Was that a dream or a premonition?”

“Hina!” Hodaka called out, snapping her attention away to find him and Nagi running up to her bedside. Their eyes nearly watering as they gathered around her, embracing her with a big hug.

“Hey guys…” Hina tried to speak out only to be cut off by her little brother.

“Why didn’t you tell us about this!?”

Hina was puzzled for a moment only to realize what they were referring to.

Her new power.

“Crap. I can’t hide away anymore, I just need to tell them and hope they understand.”

Hina took a deep breath in, never wanting this conversation to happen, but she had no choice, as she spoke up. “What you saw was the power of the three lights. I’ll spare you the details, but it grants me the ability to become Utsuno Ikusagami, a champion of the people,” Hina elaborated, tilting her head down as she didn’t want to see their reactions. She couldn’t face their anger and sadness, as hearing about it would be bad enough, as she would soon find herself proven right.

“So, you get chosen yet again to be a servant for some divine being! Haven’t you already done enough!?” Nagi cried out, his stomach turning into knots while his mind raced at the thought of his sister being taken away from him once more. It devastated him the first time around and couldn’t bear the thought of it happening again.

“I…. I didn’t have a choice this time around… it was….” reasoned Hina, ensuring her voice was toned down to explain the situation more delicately.

“When we were falling, wasn’t it?” Hodaka deduced, not wanting to accept the reality, but kept his composure, knowing the origins of it.

“Yes,” Hina simply answered, keeping her head tilted down, feeling guilty over her confession towards them.

“Why didn’t you tell us?” Hodaka asked softly, moving his hand on top of hers.

“I already put you two through a lot when I was the Sunshine Girl. I didn’t want to worry either of you again,” explained Hina, her eyes emitting tears, as she let them drop down on hers and Hodaka’s hands.

“Bullshit,” Nagi cut in on, slamming his hand down onto theirs, never peeling his eyes away from them. “You’re my sister and you don’t get to hide secrets from me. We go through this together. It doesn’t matter if you’re a god or have an army of monsters at your disposal. You share a life with us. The three of us, that’s what matters.

“I…..” Hina stammered out only to find herself interrupted once more.

“You’re the one who always shines a light on everyone that brings us all together, but you can’t do it alone,” stammered Hodaka, as he gripped her hand harder, as if he had no intention of ever letting go. “Hina, promise me you’ll tell us whenever something comes up, whether it’s good or bad. We can handle it.”

“I… I will,” whispered Hina, as she turned her hand around and matched the grip of her loved ones.

“And I don’t care if our lives can never be normal, I just care about you,” Hodaka declared, his voice ringing throughout the room, not caring if anyone outside heard him. “About us,”

Hina bursted into tears at the overwhelming joy she felt from the two of them as she let go of their hands. To their surprise, she yanked them in for a hug, squeezing them tightly. “Thank you. Both of you. I love you both so much.”

“Love you too, sis,” chuckled Nagi.

“I love you, Hina,” Hodaka murmured as Hina hummed in response, rubbing his back. The embrace lasted for several minutes, with the room going dead silent until Nagi had the idea to lighten the mood up and removed himself from the hug.

“So, who’s your new favorite member of our gang?”

“Huh?” both Hodaka and Hina asked, confused as to what he was referring to.

“The kaiju!” Nagi explained, before making his choice. “Mine’s Gaira!”

“He tried to eat several people in front of us!” countered Hodaka, shocked at how someone could choose to view that gluttonous creature with awe.

“Eh, we all have our flaws.” shrugged Nagi.

“Fair, but I gotta give it to Godzilla. Never go up against the all-star hero,” Hodaka answered, as he turned to his girlfriend. “What about you Hina?”

Instead of answering his question, the avatar of the Space God looked past the window, observing the vista as the mountains covered with greenery provided her with a sense of peace. In addition to Hodaka and Nagi, what she saw standing in that landscape made her smile. She felt it as he watched from a distance, never leaving her side as he made sure she was safe and sound.

Anguirus let out a small roar, not knowing if the girl would hear it or not, but wanted to do so. She was alright and that’s what mattered. Her, Junior, and Minilla. His duty to protect never waivered, but it expanded.

He failed to protect nearly everyone on Skull Island, but he had a chance to atone. He wasn’t going to surrender that. He was never one to balk at the sense of duty and she was no different.

Guardians.

Her and him were one in the same, and they would do everything in their power to make sure it stayed that way. No matter what the future held for them.

They were survivors, and only through others did they become stronger.

Unbeknownst to them, they made a vow.

“We will watch over them all.”

Winner: Anguirus (Universal), Godzilla (Showa), Sanda