[Canterlot - E.A.T Tournament - Third Person POV.]
Twilight was frantic. Her mane had several splits ends adorning it. The rest of the royals watched her with concern as she repeatedly pressed down on the Scouter's scanning button. "Ok, relax; breathe and relax! No need to panic! The readings don't lie. Spike and Goku are currently equal at 10,000 in terms of power level. Of course, they both could be suppressing their powers again. No worries. I have to keep resetting the Scouter until I pick something up!" Twilight assured herself.
"Um, Twilight. Maybe you should stop pressing the button so much or else you might break it," Cadence advised.
"There's no need to get all worked up Twily. What are you looking for anyway?" Shining Armor asked.
"I'm trying to discover Spike's maximum power output. I know he's come a long way from how he was before. But I can't help but feel that it pales in comparison to Goku. He most likely won't even be able to touch!" Twilight said. Celestia places a comforting hand on her former student's shoulder.
"It's only natural for a mentor to hold greater strength than the student. There are even some things I haven't taught you as well. I suspect this match will be Goku's way of evaluating his pupil. He will push him, this is true, but I'm sure Goku is well aware of Spike's limitations," Celestia said.
"Young Spike has been groomed into a fine warrior indeed. Have faith that he will pass this trial," Luna said.
"He'll do fine Twilight," Shining Armor said.
Twilight sigh's slowly and watched as the match was about to begin. "...Good Luck Spike,"
"Oh come now, BlueBlood. There's no need for the long face. We have all lost our fair share of bets at some point in our lives," FancyPants said.
"Besides, you still have a chance. Twilight's scribe is his next opponent. So he might be the only fighter with enough insight to hold his own," Fleur said with the nearest hint of a coy smile. BlueBlood said nothing as he continues to pout. He let out an inaudible grumble as Fleur De Lis went on. "I always wanted to attend the new restaurant, honey. What was it called again? Tasty Treat? I hear that they have the most exotic entrees'. We have to dine there after this,"
"Of course dear," FancyPnats said. BlueBlood merely huffs again.
Back with Sombra's group, Hope had returned to find Chrysalis and Sombra in the middle of a conversation. "What you have just proposed has got to be the most foolish course of action in the history of creation!" Chrysalis exclaimed.
"And how can one live if they refuse to take risks? You know as well as I that Goku must be removed from the equation if we are to succeed and this is the best way to achieve that," Sombra said before he began to chuckle. "Or is the mighty changeling queen finally showing her true colors and admits that she's a coward?"
Chrysalis sends a death glare at the charcoal unicorn before she smiles smugly. "Never doubt the capabilities of a changeling. I'll complete your little errand,"
"Am I missing some context here?" Hope asked, gaining her cohorts attention.
"We were scouting a candidate of our Hope. One that will help in getting a certain monkey off our backs," Sombra said cryptically.
"Speaking of Candidates. Please tell me your recruiting is complete. I wish to leave this place. If I wanted to watch fools beat each other senseless then I would have ordered a pair of drones to do it," Chrysalis said in a bored tone.
"I have gathered the necessary forces. We can leave now if you want," Hope said.
"In a moment, the final match is about to begin, and I'm eager to see the conclusion," Sombra said as Hope raises an eyebrow and Chrysalis to groan.
"You just want to watch the dragon get beaten by his master," Chrysalis said in annoyance.
"Possibly..." Sombra said with a twisted grin. He completely missed the worried glance from Hope.
"HERE WE ARE AT THE END OF THE LINE, FOLKS. THESE TWO COMBATANTS HAVE FOUGHT LONG AND HARD TO GET TO THIS POINT. BUT WE CAN ONLY HAVE ONE DEFINITIVE WINNER. NOW THEN FIGHTERS! ARE. YOU. READY?!!" C.C. said as the crowd waited eagerly for the match to start.
Spike had butterflies in his stomach. He honestly could not recall a time where he had been this nervous. Neither Spike nor Scootaloo had been able to land a blow against Goku during their sparring sessions. He was sweating as Goku walks up to him. Spike stared up at his master's face while trying his best not to vomit. Goku said nothing while still holding a smile on his face. He extended his left arm and held his fist out. Spike stares down at the fist for a moment before he understood the gesture. He took his fist and bumped it against Goku's. This action seemed to have calmed his nerves a little, and he allowed a smile small to appear on his face as well.
"Do your best Spike and give it everything you got because I won't be holding back either," Goku said with determination.
Spike takes a deep breath and exhales. "I won't disappoint you, sir!" He said with as much conviction as he could muster. Goku nods and pulls his fist back and calmly walks a few feet away from his pupil. Goku turned back around and faced his opponent. He took his stance and addressed the official.
"I'm ready," Goku said.
Spike straightens up and exhales one last time before he too took his stance. "Ready!"
"ALRIGHT THEN, LET THE FINAL MATCH OF THE EQUIS ALLIED TOURNAMENT-- BEGIN!" C.C. said.
Spike made the first move and started running toward Goku. He leaps into the air and launches a flying kick at him. Goku sidesteps the attack, causing Spike to fly by him, and went to retaliate. Goku threw a left cross as Spike landed on the ground. Spike quickly ducked under it and got on his hands and knees. Spike balances on one side and shifts his body to go for a sweep attack. Goku saw this and immediately jumps up to dodge. However, Spike counters by wrapping his tail around Goku's boot and flicks him across the arena. Goku recovers by flipping into a standing position. He then turns on his heels to swat away a ki blast barreling towards him. Spike launches another one while Goku fires one of his own. The two explosions cancel each other out, leaving a cloud of smoke. When the fog fades away, Goku and Spike break into a run while exchanging Ki blasts.
"THE ACTION IS FAST, LOUD AND FULL EXPLOSIONS AS THESE TWO FIGHTERS LAY INTO EACH OTHER!"
"He's doing good so far," Shining Armor said as Goku and Spike continue their exchange.
"Maybe Goku will get tired before Spike does," Cadence offered.
Twilight didn't respond as she kept the Scouter active. "They're still even right now..." She mutters softly.
"Aw yeah, this is awesome! Isn't Scoots?" Rainbow said, giddy as a school filly.
"Pfft. It will be when Goku and Spike stop using kid gloves," Scootaloo replied much to Rainbows confusion.
"You mean to say that they're not fighting seriously? That's hard to believe," Ember said, but the big smile on Scootaloo face told her otherwise.
Back at the arena floor, Goku dodges to his left to avoid a blast while firing back in response. Spike veers to his right as the explosion slips past him and he returns fire. Goku jumps and pushes the projectile under him before he returns the sentiment. Spike bats it away and then flickers in front of Goku with his Ki charged up. Goku instantly counters, and both of them fires at point blank range. The two blasts explode on contact, enveloping both fighters in another smoke cloud. The crowd became uneasy. The more prolonged the smoke was covering the area.
"OH MY!! BOTH COMPETITORS JUST BLASTED ONE ANOTHER AT CLOSE RANGE! WE COULD BE LOOKING AT A DOUBLE KO HERE FIGHT FANS!"
This result was not the case, however. Both combatants jump back from the smoke and stare each other down once more. The spectators watched with great anticipation to see what will happen next. Goku stood straight up and started to speak. "That was great. I think that's it with the warm-up," He said much to the disbelief of everyone in attendance.
"THAT-THAT WAS JUST THE WARM-UP?!!" C.C. said with a pale expression as a snot trail came from his nostrils. The rest of the spectators weren't far behind.
"B-but they did so much!!"
"I could feel the heat from those beams from here!!!"
"They practically tore the Colosseum apart!!!"
The elements and company were having similar reactions. "Sweet Celestia! You mean after all of that, they are only just now getting serious," Rarity said in awe.
"What's about to happen when they finally..." Starlight tried to say but trailed off.
"I reckon we're in for one dandy of a slobber-knocker," Applejack said.
"Oh my!" Fluttershy said nervously.
"Oooooh, this is gonna be good!!!" Pinkie said with excitement laced in her voice. She pulled out a large tub of popcorn in preparation.
Celestia and Luna were the only ones among the royals who was still composed. "Should we request to have the shields strengthen up?" Cadence said with trepidation.
"I already sent a notice to the unicorns down below. We should be fine," Shining assured although he did not sound convincing.
"Huzzah! Now we shall bear witness to how true warriors wage battle!" Luna exclaimed.
"Celestia, do you have any idea on what's going to happen?" Twilight asked as she looked to her former teacher for answers.
Celestia's face remained calm, but a small smile graced her features as she went to answer. "The battle of the millennium, dear Twilight,"
Goku was performing some hamstring stretches while Spike was mentally steeling himself the upcoming battle. It is here where he will finally put all his training to the test. Spike looks to Goku who had just finished his stretches. "Alright, let's get started,"
"Right!" Spike's features grew intense as he spread his legs out. He slams both his arms in together to form a cross over his head. "HAAAH!" Instantaneously, Spike's entire body is clad in a white aura. It danced and flickered like a burning flame at a campfire. The skies darkened above the Colosseum and the ground began to shake. Violent winds started to blow all around the vicinity. Members of the audience started to panic at the sudden development.
"WHAT...WHAT'S GOING ON HERE FOLKS?!?! THE ENTIRE COLOSSEUM HAD JUST STARTED QUAKING. THE SKIES HAVE TAKEN ON A DARK HUE! AND WHY IS ONE OF OUR COMPETITORS COVERED IN A WHITE FIRE?!"
"O-k class, stay very close to me!" Cheerliee said as she pulled her frantic students together.
Twilight stared in shock as the readings from the Scouter went into overdrive. "20,000, 25, 30-- His-His power keeps raising!!!"
Elsewhere, Sombra could only watch on in amazement at the display. He felt a sensation he had not felt since his first return from banishment; elation! "I must have it..."
"HOOAH-YAAAAH!!!" Spike slammed his arms down, and his aura erupted skyward. A blinding light shot from his form as the area began to settle down. Once the light subsided, everyone had a bemused expression at what the sight before them. Spike stood tall with a fierce demeanor. His body flashed with a white tint, and his aura was at least twice his size. "Ready when you are!"
"5-5-55,000...!? That's incredible!!" Twilight exclaimed at the new readings.
Goku broadly smiled as he got a feel for Spike's Current power level. It was awe-inspiring for someone who just started training in martial arts. His pupil easily surpassed everyone back on Earth. "I got to say I am impressed, Spike. You even surpassed what my strength was back on Earth with just a few months training," He praised. Spike had to resist the urge to gush at the compliments. "Now it's my turn..." Goku slides his left foot back and stood firm as he activated his aura. Small pebbles could be seen rising from the ground and disintegrating against the pressure. Lightning electricity shot out from the bottom of his boots and raced across the arena floor. "This is going to be magical. I can feel it!"
"NOW SON GOKU IS ENCASED IN THIS MYSTERIOUS WHITE FLAME!!! I HAVE A FEELING THAT WE ARE IN FOR QUITE THE SPECTACLE!!"
"Ok, I've got to learn how to do that," Shining said.
Twilight furrows her brows as she just got back the readings on Goku's power level. "60,000... Oh, Spike please be ok," She muttered softly.
"Woo-nelly! Look at those two! Ya think we should call the fire ponies?" Applejack asked.
"I assure you, darling, that this is quite normal for them. I'm more worried about signaling the building manufacturers," Rarity said with concern. Ember, along with Zecora, Scootaloo, and Rainbow Dash watched on great eagerness as well.
"Now, the real fight begins!" Scootaloo said, her voice filled with enthusiasm.
"It's gonna be awesome!" Rainbow said, matching her sister's feelings.
"This is quite a sight, and it's sure to be a fantastic fight," Zecora said.
Ember was stoic as she watched on. If she felt any nervousness while gazing down at her two friends, then she hid it well. She had witnessed Goku's power first hand. And a small inkling of fear crept up inside her. "It's time to see if I made the right choice, Spike..." She said softly.
Goku and Spike both took their stances as they prepared to engage. Their Gi's flowed like the princesses mane's under the influence of their power. Goku had trouble removing the smile from his face whereas Spike remained focused. A beat of sweat went down Spike's head as the rising tension. A small piece of rubble fell to the ground that seemed to echo throughout the Colosseum. That was all the signal they need as both Goku and Spike shot toward each other. The collision caused another flash to erupt and a shockwave to ring out. At the epicenter, the crowd could see the two fighter's suspended in the air and exchange blows. Spike throws a left aimed at Goku's face, but Goku dodges and connects with a right. The strike sends the young drake back to the ground. But he quickly recovers and goes on the offensive. Spike launches a kick that Goku blocks with his knee. He then tries for a one-two combo to which Goku evades and lands a right jab and a left hook to Spike's cranium. They break off as they rocketed to higher altitudes.
"INCONCEIVABLE FIGHT FANS. BOTH FIGHTER'S ARE GOING ALL IN. HOWEVER, SPIKE HAS YET TO LAND A SINGLE BLOW!"
"Come on, Spike," Twilight said.
Goku and Spike circled one another before Spike moves in again. He throws a wild haymaker that Goku quickly saw coming. Although, to Goku's mild surprise, it turned out to be a feint. As Spike went by, he quickly rotates his body to follow up with an elbow strike. Goku caught the offending limb with his right hand and struck at Spike's exposed ribcage. The young drake winces but sends a high kick to Goku's face. However, Goku blocks it with his left forearm and pushes him away. Goku takes the offensive by sending an open palm strike to Spike's sternum. He proceeds to follow up with an elbow to his pupil's face before grabbing his arm, flipping him to the ground below. Spike stops himself mere inches above the ground. He looks back up at Goku with gritted teeth as frustration starts to take hold.
"I knew Spike was going to have a hard time, but I didn't think it would be this bad," Cadence said as Spike shoots back up at Goku and launches a barrage of punches and kicks.
"It's only natural. Goku taught him everything he knows. He has more experience and better combat practice. I'm honestly surprised Spike has lasted this long," Shining armor analyzed, but he suddenly felt a chill coming from his right side. He turns around to see Twilight with a flowing mane and her glowing eyes staring into the deeps of his soul. "I-I mean, uh, Go, Spike! you can do it!"
Back at the action, Goku expertly dodges every blow Spike sends his way before landing a roundhouse kick right into his stomach. Spike backs off to nurse his wound. He closes one eye as grimaces in pain. 'He wasn't kidding about him not holding back.' Spike thought. Goku's smile has long since been replaced by a neutral expression that Spike couldn't get a read on.
"That's not good enough Spike. I know you can do better!" Goku said. Both fighter's proceeds to flicker out of plain sight and waged battle using high-speed movement. The two continued to clash at near hypersonic speeds.
"WHAT'S THIS?! BOTH WARRIORS HAS COMPLETELY VANISHED!!! WHERE COULD THEY HAVE GONE?" All of the spectators had their heads on a swivel as they tried to locate Goku and Spike. While everyone was trying desperately to find them, Scootaloo was easily tracking their moves.
"What the hay?" Can anypony see them?" Rainbow asked.
"Tracking their movements is something I cannot do. If you seek answers, then speak to Scootaloo," Zecora informs.
Rainbow turns to her little sister to find her eyes shifting back and forth rapidly. "Hey, Scoots. Can you see them?"
"Yes," Scootaloo responded curtly. Goku had just landed another punch to Spike's face causing to switch to the defensive.
That response slightly took rainbow but let it slide. "But how?"
"Just don't blink now let me concentrate," Scootaloo said much to Rainbows chagrin. Zecora giggles at this.
"Can you tell us who's winning?" Ember asked.
"...It's not looking good for Spike. Goku's beating everything he throws at him," Scootaloo said regretfully.
Just then, Spike manages to block a blow that knocks him out of hypersonic space, causing him to bounce off the barrier. He grunts from the hit before he was able to balance himself in the air. His breathing was heavy from the number of blows Goku inflicted on him. He glares back at his mentor who hovered a few feet away from him. The same unreadable expression still adorning Goku's face. They both flickered out of sight again and reappeared in various locations throughout the Colosseum. Spike rebounded off the barrier wall to set up a dive kick. But Goku deflects the kick away and counters with an elbow strike to the back. He follows up with a dive kick of his causes Spike to glide across the dirt and slam into the wall. But Goku was far from done.
"Rapid Fire!" Goku called out as he sent a volley of Ki blasts directly to his pupil. Spike barely had enough time to get his guard up before the bombings consumed his form. Goku continued his assault before finally letting up, leaving a massive smoke cloud.
"AFTER POPPING IN AND OUT OF EXISTENCE AROUND THE COLOSSEUM, SON GOKU LET'S LOSE WITH A BARRAGE OF BEAMS ON HIS YOUNG STUDENT. THIS FIGHT MUST BE WHAT A LESSON IN PAIN LOOKS LIKE AMONG HIS KIND. WILL THERE BE ANYTHING LEFT OF SPIKE AFTER THAT RELENTLESS ASSAULT?"
"He's making sonny sound like a big meanie!" Pinkie said with an angry pout.
"Well he is kinda rough with him," Starlight pointed out.
"Oh, I'm sure Goku wouldn't be too hard with Spike," Fluttershy said in defense.
The smoke cloud had finally dissipated to reveal that Spike had managed to get an energy shield up. However, his shredded Gi suggests that he did so during the middle of the barrage. Half of his upper body was bare as the remains of his clothing formed an impromptu toga. His right leg had a hole around the knee, and his lower left leg was visible. Spike's body was covered in scorch marks as he trembled slightly. Goku stares at Spike with a look of indifference as Spike drops his shield.
"I'm not beaten yet! There's gotta be something I can do," Spike said in between his pants. Spike then thrusts his hands out and clasp them together. Goku arched a brow at this and allowed Spike to continue. "Kame-hame-HA!" He yelled out and thrust his arms forward. However, instead of a beam of energy, the attack sputtered and fizzled out. Spike went wide-eyed at his failed attempt while Goku silently hung his head.
"IN ONE LAST ACT OF DESPERATION, YOUNG SPIKE ATTEMPTED TO USE THE SAME MOVE SON GOKU USED AGAINST FLAM. UNFORTUNATELY. HE SEEMS LIKE HE'LL NEED MUCH MORE PRACTICE WITH THAT ONE,"
Goku sighs and brought his palm up. He charges up his Ki and fires a massive blast at his exhausted pupil. Spike barely rolls out the way of the detonations, but Goku appears in front of him. Spike panics and throws out a wild punch. But Goku catches it and sends Spike skyward with a high kick. Goku then leaps in the air, grabs Spike by the tail, and spins until he becomes a blur. Finally, Goku throws Spike to the ground where he bounces harshly and tumbles across the field before coming to a stop. Goku slowly descends. His expression still unreadable as he glances toward Spike, who now lays motionless.
"AND THAT FINAL MOVE, SPIKE IS LAID OUT BY HIS MASTER. LET'S START THE COUNT 1, 2..."
"Oh, no..." Scootaloo said dejectedly.
"It would appear that young Spike has reached his limit. He has performed admirably," Luna said.
"DON'T SAY THAT!!!" Twilight blurted out as she glared harshly at the Lunar princess. Twilight realized her mistake and spoke more softly. "I'm sorry, but you're wrong Spike's still... He can-" Her voice got caught in her voice as tears began to form.
"He did very well, Twily," Shining Armor offered a supporting part on her shoulder.
"Yes he did, and I'm sure Goku knows that too," Cadence comforted her sister in law.
Celestia rests her hand on the young princess while she looks to Spike. "You did your best. Be proud of that..." She said softly.
"3, 4..."
The count continues as everyone waits for Goku to be declared the winner. Ember looks on solemnly as Spike has yet to move. "Do not falter now. You have the strength!"
Spike was vaguely aware of his surroundings as the count continued. He tried to move, but his body wouldn't listen. "Huh, guess that's it. All that training, and it was for nothing. What made me think I could beat Goku? The only thing I ended doing was wasting his time. I'm still a failure..." He thought to himself as his consciousness started to slip. There was nothing left to do but accept-
"DON'T YOU DARE QUIT SPIKE! YOU'VE COME SO FAR, TOO FAR IN FACT. DO NOT TELL ME YOU ARE CONTENT WITH HOW THINGS ARE? STAND UP AND FIGHT!" A familiar voice called out. Spike was able to fight off his wariness enough to pinpoint who was calling him.
"R-rarity?" Spike mutters softly.
"SHE'S RIGHT PARTNER. YA CAN'T QUIT NOW!" Applejack said.
"YEAH, GO, KICK SONNY'S FLANKS!" Pinkie joins in.
"STAND UP SPIKE!" Starlight chimed in as well.
"WE BELIEVE IN YOU!" Fluttershy added on.
"SHOW THE BIG GUY, HOW AWESOME YOU ARE!" Rainbow shouted out as well.
"5, 6..." As the count went on, Spike heard more of his friends spurring him on. And soon, members of the audience started to cheer him on too.
"Stand tall young hatchling!"
"Yeah, get up and show that foreigner the power of Equestria!"
"Spike, Spike, Spike!"
"PLEASE SPIKE STAND UP. YOU CAN WIN IF YOU BELIEVE IN YOURSELF!!!" Twilight called out as loud as her voice would allow. ( Which is pretty loud since she used the Royal Canterlot Voice.)
"7, 8..."
"T-Twilight? Every pony believes in me, but what can I do?" Spike doubted again. It wasn't until a new voice called out that a small ember lit in his belly.
"Well, Spike? Is this as far as you going to go? I know you're stronger than this!" Goku said. His mentor's voice seemed to drown out all the other's. Suddenly, Spike began to recall every conversation he's heard up to this point.
"If I found out a few month's ago then I would have been sad. But I spent the last six months improving myself and broke past my limits. And now even without wings, I can still fly!" His fellow student's word rang out sharply through his being, and the ember burned brighter.
"Scootaloo was able to achieve her goal, but what did I want?" Spike questioned as his body became less dense.
"Yeah it's tough, but I'm tired of always being left behind and failing to protect my friends!" Spike's voice spoke up as he found the strength to push himself to his hands and knees.
"That's right. I wanted to change. To show every pony, I can help and handle myself. And I was able to do that right?" Spike was now crouching on one knee, but he needed one more push.
"Honestly Spike your potential could be limitless as long as you keep trying to surpass the person you are today..." Goku words resonated and that gave Spike all he required.
"I-I get it now!" Spike said, his voice holding more power within it.
"Bah! What pointless sentimentalities. The lizard is no match for the ape," Sombra spat out. However, he received a slap to the face of Hope, who was watching the scene unfold.
"9- HOLD ON!" C.C stops just as he was about to reach the end. "WHY YES, YOU SEE IT CLEAR AS DAY FOLKS. AGAINST ALL ODDS, SPIKE IS BACK ON HIS FEET!!!" The crowd erupts into cheering as Spike beat the count. Spike had his head low, and his breaths became even.
"I-I will...!" He began to say as he raised his head. Goku was taken aback by the sheer determination blazing in his pupil's green eyes. "I WILL SURPASS MYSELF!!!" Suddenly, the Scouter flared to life and Twilight gaze upon the readings in bafflement.
"His power lever just jumped to 70,000?" Twilight exclaimed much to the shock of the other royals.
"Ha Ha, that's the way..." Goku said as his smile returned.
"HAAAAAH!!!" Spike yelled out as he felt the spark inside him burst into a flame. A new rush of power filled his body, and his aura came to life once again. Only this time, it took on a green hue while a white outline traced his form. His muscles expanded as his Gi ripped apart from the strain, leaving his chest exposed. A glowing green light replaced his pupils, and his features contorted into a vicious scowl. "I'M TAKING YOU DOWN!!!" He stated as his power fluxed again. Twilight slowly brought her hands to her face as the new readings showed up.
"86,000?! But that's...." Twilight trailed off as the announcer went to speak.
"SPIKE HAS CAUGHT HIS SECOND WIND, AND HE'S BURNING WITH PASSION. WILL THIS BE THE TURNING POINT?"
"Show me what you've got, Spike!!!" Goku said stated as he ignited his aura.
Spike lifts his left foot and slams it hard into the ground and darted toward his mentor. The force was so great that the ground split apart, and the barrier cracked. Goku charged forward as well and met Spike halfway. The two of them extended their fists and collided with one another. Perhaps the biggest shockwave all day occurred within the area. The kinetic force reverberated from the blow as the entire colosseum shook. Goku and Spike's arms shook from exertion as they tried to overcome the other.
"That's more like it but can you keep it up?" Goku asked with a smirk.
"WATCH ME! HAAAA!!!" Spike fiercely responds as he slams his right fist into his mentor's side. Goku barely manages to block while another shockwave rang out. The two grunted as they both launched two more attacks that slammed into another. What followed next was a rapid exchange of blows that was so fast that they appeared as blurs to everyone else. Violent winds blew harshly from the two warriors and spider web cracks spread out on the ground from their position. Goku lands a punch to Spike midsection. He grimaces before he presses onward. To Goku's surprise, Spike manages to push him back despite not landing a clean blow.
"SPECTACULAR FIGHT FANS. THEY'RE PUNCHING EACH OTHER SO FAST THAT GROUND IS BREAKING APART! YOU CAN FEEL THE INTENSITY RADIATING FROM SPIKE AS HE SLOWLY PUSHES SON GOKU BACK DESPITE HIS IMPRESSIVE GUARD!"
"RAAAAH!!!" Spike roared out as he sent a massive left hook to Goku who was able to block it. But the power behind strike it forces him to skid across the arena. His boots dug into the ground and left long trails in their wake. Goku quickly reacts and jumps in the air just in time to evade Spike launching his fist on his position. A deep crater formed as Goku continues to ascend. He looks back down at Spike only to be greeted by a Ki blast barreling straight for him. Reacting quickly, Goku raises his left arm and chops the energy attack in half. Goku turns his attention back to Spike, who was now flying at him. Goku fires a blast of his own only for it to harmlessly phase right through Spike. Thus, causing Goku's eyes to slam open.
"An afterimage? Clever-" Spike's Ki alerted Goku of his pupils' presence behind him. Spike flickers insight mere inches from his mentor and launches a barrage of attacks. Goku found himself on the defensive as Spike steadily grew faster with his attempts.
"RAAAAAH!!!!" Spike roared again as his attacks came faster and faster until the unimaginable happened.
*WHAM*
"I-I-I DON'T BELIEVE FOLKS. SPIKE HAS LANDED A BLOW, AND IT WAS RIGHT IN THE MONEY MAKER!!!" The spectators all gasp at this development as Goku's head was thrown back from a devastating punch. Goku manages to recover and stared at his pupil with a smirk on his face. He brought his arm to his lip and wiped against the warm liquid trailing down to his chin. Goku inspects his arm to find smeared blood on it.
Then, much to everyone else's confusion, Goku began chuckling. "Not bad! Not bad at all. HA!!!" Goku praised before intensifying his aura.
"I'M JUST GETTING STARTED!!!" Spike responded as his aura intensified as well.
The two fighters charge at one another once more and locked hands. Goku rears his head back and headbutts Spike's forehead. Spike recoiled as Goku follows up with a kick to the solar plexus that sends Spike flying downward. However, Spike recovers and promptly returns a headbutt himself. Spike took advantage of Goku dazed state and connect with several rapid punches all over Goku's body. He finished up by charging a Ki blast and launches it directly on Goku's abdomen. The explosion carried Goku back to the Colosseum and exploded on contact with the ground.
"Did that do it?" Cadence asked, hanging off the edge of her seat.
"Nay, not quite yet!" Luna answers; unable to mask her excitement.
"THIS COULD BE SPIKE BIG CHANCE HERE FOLKS!!!" C.C. stated. Spike flickers to the ground as Goku began pulling himself from the rubble. Spike clasps his hands together and brings it to his side.
"He's going to try again?" Ember questioned.
"Don't worry. This time's different!" Scootaloo said as she fluttered her wings excitedly.
"KA...ME...HA...ME..." Spike's face twitches with concentration as he focuses his Ki. Unlike the many failed attempts before, a blue orb of energy gathers in his palms. However, that's not all that happens. A greenish tint outlined the blue core and grew brighter the longer Spike held it. Goku had freed himself and stared at his student wide-eyed. A smirk made its way on Goku's features as he braced himself.
"Come on Spike. Give it you're all!!" Goku challenged.
"HAAAAA-ROOOOAAAH!!!!" Spike thrust his arms forward and fired a Kamehame-Ha worthy of the school of the turtle hermit. His roar was so loud that it put even the former Dragon Lord to shame. As the massive beam approached him, Goku swore he saw the image of a dragon's maw preparing to swallow him whole. He planted his feet and extended his arms outward. The beam made contact with his palms, and Goku struggled to gain control. The blast pushed him back several feet before he slowed to a crawl. Spike was putting as much power as he could into this. "RAAAAAAAAAH!!!!" He roared again and doubled the output of the beam.
Goku gritted his teeth as his arms began to strain. "Ha ha whelp, I did say 'no holding back' so I guess I should follow my advice. YAH!!!" Goku's aura shot up again until it towered over the beam. He reared his right arm back and clenched his fist as hard as he could. With a mighty bellow, he proceeded to punch Spike's Kamehameha wave straight into orbit. Everyone watched in awe as Spike's attack went out into space before fading away with a twinkle. They soon turned their gazes back to the combatants and for the umpteenth time, today were dumbfounded by what they saw.
"NEVER IN MY LIFE AS AN ANNOUNCER HAVE I BEEN THIS SPEECHLESS FIGHT FANS! AFTER DIVERTING AN OUTSTANDING ATTACK BY HIS PUPIL, GOKU'S RIGHT ARM IS COMPLETELY SCORCHED. JUST LOOK AT THE SMOLDERING REMAINS. SPIKE ISN'T FAIRING MUCH BETTER EITHER. THAT STRANGE ETERNAL FLAME HAS DISAPPEARED, AND HE'S COLLAPSED TO HIS KNEE'S. HE PUT EVERY FIBER OF HIS BEING INTO THAT MOVE. HOW WE WILL MOVE ON FROM HERE?"
Goku gazes upon his arm as it trembles uncontrollably. The attack caused an unsightly discolorization of black and purple"Unbelievable! He made my arm numb..." Goku thought. He looks back at Spike who was ready to keel over. Although, Goku noted that that same determination hadn't left his eyes. An idea pops into his head as his smile returned in full force. "Whadda say we settle things, Spike? One last attack. Winner takes all!"
"T-That's funny...! I was going to say the same thing!" Spike shot back as he got back to his feet. Both fighter's locked eyes one last time before they broke into a full sprint. They both leaped into the air and extended their legs for a flying kick.
"HI-YAAAAH!" They both screamed while the crowd watches in amazement. Both of their attacks hit home as they simultaneously landed. Goku's boot dug into Spike's snout while Spike's foot rammed into Goku's chin. After a few seconds, they both fell to the ground. Many gasps rang out at their seemingly unconscious forms.
"So it's a draw after all?!" Twilight said in disbelief.
"I am not so sure. I doubt either of Goku or Spike will settle for a tie," Celestia said.
"THESE FIGHTER'S CONTINUE TO AMAZE BUT WILL THE TOURNAMENT END IN A DRAW? LET'S FIND OUT 1, 2, 3, 4, 5..." As soon as the counted, Goku had begun to stir. He opened his eyes and shook off the cobwebs before he kicks flips to a standing position. He quickly rubbed the bruise growing on his chin as he watches his student intently. "WHAT IS SON GOKU MADE OF FOLK'S? I KNOW IF I TOOK A SHOT LIKE THAT I WOULD BE IN THE HOSPITAL FOR MONTHS. WILL SPIKE BE ABLE TO PRECIPITATE HIS MENTORS ACTIONS? 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8..." Spike rose to his feet, albeit, less flashy as Goku. "AS IF THEIR WAS ANYMORE DOUBT TO THIS DRAGON'S WILLPOWER! SOMETHING'S GOT TO GIVE HERE!"
"My body feels so heavy, but I can't stop now. I-I just...! I need one more punch!!" Spike said to himself as he let out another roar. He started with a slow run before he picked up speed. The cheering of the crowd became mute as the young drake focused only on his opponent in front of him. Goku stood still as Spike got closer. He did nothing to defend himself as he reflected on the fantastic progress his pupils have made here today. A proud smile made it's way on Goku's face while he closed his eyes. Spike was within striking distance. He cocks back his left arm and thrust it forward with all his remaining strength. Time seemed to have slowed down for the two as Spike's hand honed in on its target. He was mere inches away until....
*SWISH*
Spike's punch veered off to the side. His pupils faded out, and his body let gravity take hold. But before he could hit the ground. Goku extended his wounded arm out and caught the young drake. They stood frozen like statue's before Goku gently lays the now unconscious drake down. His smile never left his face. Goku turned to C.C. who was speechless this time and spoke up. "Hey, you can start the count again if you like,"
C.C. shook out of his stupor and proceeded. "UM, YES- *AHEM* -1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10!!! IT WOULD SEEM THAT FATIGUE HAS FINALLY CAUGHT UP WITH OUR YOUNG COMPETITOR. BUT THIS LITTLE DRAKE HAS GONE FURTHER THAN ANYPONY COULD HAVE POSSIBLY GONE. HOWEVER, THERE CAN BE ONLY ONE CHAMPION. SO, CONGRATULATIONS SON GOKU. YOU WIN THE EQUIS ALLIED TOURNAMENT!!!" The spectators roared in applause the thrilling conclusion of the tournament. The noise was so loud that it woke Spike from his slumber.
With a groan, Spike slowly opens his eyes. "W-What happened?"
"Hey there, sleepy head. Have a nice nap?" Goku asked cheerfully.
Spike's eyes widen as he shot up to a sitting position. He turned frantically to Goku for answers. "Wait! So did I win?" He asked hopefully, but Goku shook his head. Spike features went downcast before Goku places a comforting hand on his shoulder.
"No need to get down in the dumps, Spike your performance out here today surpassed all my expectations. You, as well as Scootaloo, have made me very proud," Goku reassured.
"Thanks, Goku but how did I lose anyway? It's all a blur," Spike asked.
"Haha, the same way I lost my first tournament match against Jackie Chun," Goku saw Spike's confused expression, so he elaborated. "You see, I'm much taller than you. That means my limbs sank in deeper than yours did. Although, dragon scales hurt more than a shoe," He joked as they both shared a laugh. Goku helps Spike to his feet, and the crowd cheered louder.
"You two were fantastic!"
"Best. Day. Ever!"
"Encore!"
Spike and Goku turned around to find their friends sharing their sentiments as well.
"WAY TO GO, PARTNERS!," Applejack said
"MARVELOUS, DARLING, SIMPLY MARVELOUS!" Rarity said.
"YOU BOTH DID GREAT!" Starlight praised.
"YAY! WAY TO GO!" Fluttershy said.
"WE'RE GONNA HAVE THE BIGGEST PARTY EVER!!!" Pinkie said while throwing confetti.
Spike blushed at the praise and turned his head to the private royal booth. The three elderly princesses all wore approving smiles. Shining Armor gave Spike a nod and thumbs up. Meanwhile, Twilight was a different story. She held both her hands over her heart while she was trying and failing to stop her tears from streaming. However, these were not tears of sadness if the sweet smile was any indication. It didn't matter if he lost because of his friends and family; he was the champion.
"LET GIVE A BIG HAND TO OUR TWO FINALIST FOLKS. THEY PUT AN IMPRESSIVE SHOW THAT SHALL BE REMEMBER FOR ALLL TIME!!" C.C. said as a round of clapping and whistling went off. "NOW TO PRESENT YOUR PRIZE; PRINCESS CELESTIA!!!" On cue, the majestic alabaster princess flew down to the duo. She stood before them wearing the same motherly smile as always.
"I must congratulate you two myself on that terrific display. Even during my lifetime had I seldom the opportunity to witness such feats," Celestia slowly approached Spike and bends down to plants a small kiss on his forehead. She giggled at his flushed reaction and whispered in his ears. "You may have lost but consider that a consolation prize," The solar goddess than turns back to Goku. "To the victory comes the spoils as they say. Please speak your wish, and if it is within my power I shall grant it,"
Goku paused for a moment as he posed thoughtfully. Speculation began to form on what the mysterious alien would ask of the sun princess. Ranging from becoming a noble, claiming the riches of the land or even some more risqué request one could make. However, Goku's wish proved to be the most significant shock ever to occur.
"Princess Celestia. For my wish; I challenge you to a fight!" Goku proclaims.
"..."
"..."
"..."
"WHAAAAAAAAAAAAT!?!?!" Instantly, the crowd was in an uproar by this. Some thought Goku had taken one too many hits and had gone insane. Other's slandered him for the wasted opportunity. While most were outraged at the thought of their princess fighting for sport. The rest of the royals quickly appeared in a flash to try and mitigate this new controversy.
"Goku...! Have you lost your mind?! You can't just challenge Princess Celestia to a fight!!" Twilight said through a strained voice.
"Hmm? Why not?" Goku asked.
"WHY NOT?!!?! I COULD MAKE A LIST ABOUT WHY NOT!!!" Twilight shouted.
"I'm sure he's has a good reason, Twilight. Calm down," Cadence said as she moves closer to Goku and whispers to him. "Please tell me you have a good reason," She pleaded.
"Well yeah. Since I fought Luna, I was wondering what her sister could do. So I decided challenging her would be fun," Goku replies with a cheerful grin.
"How could fighting Princess Celestia be fun? Besides with that injury, you should get immediate attention!" Shining chimed in voicing his disapproval.
"We must profess that we are disappointed in thy's choice," Luna spoke up. "Why just challenge our sister when our battle remains undecided?" She said with a pout as Twilight, Cadence and Shining Armor fall to the ground. Celestia stood quickly and watched on with amusement. Twilight got back to her hooves and went to address Spike.
"Spike, you talk some sense into him. He's crazy!!!" Twilight beseeched her adoptive sibling.
"I don't see a problem with it," Spike said nonchalantly.
"SPIKE!!" Twilight yelled indignation.
"I accept," Celestia said loud enough for the entire colosseum to hear her.
"YOU WHAT?!" They all said in surprised. Celestia had a coy smile as she continued.
"I believe I have stated that If the wish was within my power that I would grant it. And this wish is well within that stipulation. However, I must ask you to receive aid for your arm and have a day's rest. We'll reconvene back here tomorrow at noon. Is this satisfactory?" Celestia ask.
Goku sent her a smile of his own. "I'll be here," He said confidently.
"UNBELIEVABLE FIGHT FANS. THE CHAMPION OF THE E.A.T TOURNAMENT HAS ISSUED A CHALLENGE TO OUR VERY OWN PRINCESS CELESTIA AND HER HIGHNESS ACCEPTED! DON'T MOVE FROM THOSE SEATS, OR ELSE YOU MIGHT MISS WHAT IS SURE TO BE THE BATTLE OF THE AGES!!!"
"Well, now. Things just got a little more interesting. Perhaps Goku will destroy Celestia for us," Chrysalis said.
"Yes, I am sure it will be an excellent match. Too bad you won't get to see it as you have a task to complete. This lull in combat presents the perfect opportunity for you. I suggest you seize it," Sombra said. Chrysalis then stood up and performed a mock bow to him.
"Your will is mine my liege," Chrysalis said in a condescending tone. She teleported away before the unicorn could retort.
"Why is this next candidate so important that you had Chrysalis handle the recruitment?" Hope asked.
Sombra chuckled at this and answered. "Because I believe this next candidate will provide me the means to end this insufferable magic drain forever,"
[Golden Bit Hotel, 7 pm.]
"Wow...! I can't believe the Princess loan out this whole hotel for us," Scootaloo said. "But why not stay at the castle with the girls?"
"Those reporter ponies would be expecting that since Goku is the E.A.T champion. Besides Ember's staying here too and I wanted to talk to her about that thing she did after our fight," Spike informs.
"That was pretty strange. None of the dragons back on Earth did that," Goku said as he took out a senzu bean and ate it. All of his wounds instantly healed, and the feeling came back in his arm. "Much better. You did a number on me," He said to his young pupil.
"I could say the same thing. Anyway, I'm going to head out and find Ember. Good luck tomorrow," Spike said as he ran out the door.
"I gotta get going too. Rainbow wants to fly a few laps at the guard training course. Good luck tomorrow," Scootaloo said to Goku as she raced out of the room and down the hall. She kept going to she rounded a corner and bumped into someone. "Oaf! Sorry I didn't see- Oh, hey Spike,"
"Hey there, I was just looking for you," Spike said much to Scootaloo's confusion.
"But I thought you wanted to find Ember," Scootaloo remembered.
"I tried looking around, but I guess she hadn't turned up yet. So I decided to head back because I wanted to talk about the tournament so far. Let's head to Canterlot park. Nopony will bother us there," Spike said as he turned to leave.
"Oookay..." Scootaloo said carefully and followed behind the drake.
[Back at the Colosseum, noon.]
The Colosseum walls were scarcely devoid of any occupants. Everyone seemed to take C.C. advice to hear and camp out in the stands as they waited for the match to begin. Word spread out rapidly that the serene, motherly and majestic Princess Celestia would be battling the tournament winner. So as a result, the majority of Canterlot's elite (who previously thought the tournament was beneath them) had flocked to the Colosseum in hopes of witnessing this unprecedented event. The royal family was already there standing in the arena with C.C. as they wait for Goku to return.
"Urgh! There's no excuse for this. He was just a few blocks from the Colosseum. How could he be late?!" Twilight said petulantly.
"Relax Twily, It's not even a minute past noon. Besides, Goku issued the challenge. Do you think he'd miss out?" Shining said.
"I'm sure he's on the way now," Cadence said as she looked up in the sky. "There they are now," She said as Goku, Spike and Scootaloo landed in the Colosseum.
"Hey everyone," Goku greeted.
"Greetings Sir Goku. We are glad you could arrive for this momentous of days," Luna said.
"...Even if you're 20.5 seconds late," Twilight mutters.
"It's is good to see you recovered nicely. Now that you are here, are you ready to begin?" Celestia asked.
"In a second," Goku said as he turns to Scootaloo. "Are you sure you're fine after last night?" He asked with concern.
"Pfft, no problem. Did you think those jerks could stop me? I got the best training in the world!" Scootaloo said as Goku smiled at this response. Spike and Scootaloo made their way back to the bleachers.
Goku nodded and turns back to the Royals. He walks up to them and faces Celestia directly. "I've been waiting a long time for this," He said as he took his stance. Twilight and the other's teleported back to their booth as C.C. began to speak.
"WELCOME BACK FIGHT FANS. YOU'RE IN FOR ONE SPECIAL TREAT TODAY AS PRINCESS CELESTIA IS POISED TO DO BATTLE WITH THE E.A.T. CHAMPION, SON GOKU. SO WITHOUT FURTHER DELAY, LET'S GET THINGS STARTED. FIGHTER'S, ARE YOU READY?!"
"No question about it," Goku said.
"This is sure to be interesting," Celestia said.
"BEGIN!!"
Goku carefully studies the solar princess as he slowly advances. He could help but notice that the princess has yet to take any semblance of a stance. She just stood there with her hands folded and resting in front of her stomach, along with holding that same motherly smile. It was quickly becoming apparent that Celestia wasn't going to take any preemptive action. So Goku decided he would.
"Ya want me to make the first move, huh? Alright!" Goku said to him himself as he made a mad dash straight toward his opponent. Just as he got within range, Goku flickers out of sight and reappears to her right side. Goku then launches a straight punch aimed right at her face. However, Celestia responds by blocking the blow with her mighty wings. "What?" he said in surprise. Celestia then flexed her feather limb out and bounced Goku off of her. Goku was knocked into the air before he recovers back into a standing position. All the while the sun goddess hadn't moved a muscle.
"GOKU DECIDES TO TAKE THE INITIATIVE AND STRIKE FIRST. TOO BAD HE DIDN'T ACCOUNT FOR HER MAJESTIES POWERFUL WINGS. THEY MAY LOOK FRAGILE BUT THE WINGS OF A PONY ARE INCREDIBLE STURDY,"
"Great, now he tells me," Goku said sarcastically.
"Is there something wrong Goku?" Celestia calmly asked.
"I'm pretty fine. How about yourself?" Goku said back.
"I'm doing lovely but shouldn't you try a little harder to land a blow against me?" Celestia asked.
Goku smirked at this and went to attack again. He leaps into the air and launches a roundhouse kick towards Celestia's midsection. Although, her horn quickly lit up and she teleported to safety. Goku spun in the air from his whiffed attack before finding his balance. He turns around to find Celestia still wearing her smile. Undeterred, Goku charges her again. Only this time he fires a Ki blast at her hooves causing the dust to fly up. Celestia remained calm and flapped her mighty wings together to blow the dust and Goku away. The Saiyan warrior once again rights himself and stares the princess down.
"What's with all the posturing? Surely, they are capable of more than this?" Queen Cream Puff said haughtily.
"They are feeling each other out. Forming a strategy for this bout," Chief Zombiyoy said.
"Neither of them will show their hands before the other. Be patient. They will start the true battle soon," King Iron Hoof said.
Celestia saw the crowd was getting more anxious as time went on and finally unfolded her hands. "I believe it's my turn to engage now. You'll have to forgive me as I'm a little rusty in hand to hand combat," Celestia said as she took what looked like a boxer stance. Her left arm was six inches from her muzzle and her right extended outward. She also began to bounce on her hooves. She was alternating from left to right.
"No worries. Go at your own pace--" A white-furred fist cut into Goku's right cheek. He recoiled sharply and jumped back from the sudden attack. However, Celestia pressed on her offensive. She closed the distance quickly and rained down a flurry of left's and right's while Goku did his best to block and deflect them. Celestia was like a seasoned boxer at this point. Every strike aimed at a vital area that Goku had no choice but to defend against it. But that's when Goku realized a crippling flaw when it came to boxers; they usually don't protect against attacks aimed at the legs. Goku timed his strike perfectly as Celestia threw a straight jab. He slammed the back of her hamstring with a swift kick, causing her to wince out in pain. He followed up by grabbing her jab and tossing her in the sky. Celestia was making a beeline for the reinforce shield before she stops herself with a beat of her wings.
Celestia turned back to Goku as she hovered in the air with a stunned expression. "That was rather mean. I'll have to watch out for those kicks of yours," She said with mock indignation.
Goku chuckles at this. "So was cutting me off. You're not pulling any punches. I thought you said you were rusty?" he said she wipes the blood from the cut off of his cheek.
"Oh, I am. I'm just working out the kinks," Celestia said as she rolled her shoulders. "Shall we continue?"
"After you, Princess," Goku said as both fighters rushed each other.
"It has been many moons since our sister has taken up fisticuffs. We wonder how she long before she resorts to magic?" Luna asked as both fighters went back in forth with attacking and defending.
"I have never seen auntie like this..." Cadence said in awe.
"No kidding..." Shining added.
The readings on scouter and the fight left Twilight in a transfixed state. "Goku's power has-- It's at 90,000 right now!!!" She proclaimed much to the shock of her companions. Back in the skies, Goku and Celestia continued their assault, hoping to overpower the other. They both reared their fist again and traded simultaneous blows to one another faces. They both stood frozen as their fist rested squarely on their cheeks.
"LISTEN TO THE SOUND OF THAT SIMULTANEOUS BLOW. BOTH FIGHTER'S HAD SCORED A MASSIVE HIT TO THEIR RESPECTIVE ASSLIANT. THEY SEEM EVENLY MATCHED SO FAR BUT AS WE COME TO LEARN LOOKS CAN BE DECEIVING,"
Goku and Celestia slowly pulled back their fist and backed away. Goku was panting as he could still feel the sting from Celestia's strike. It felt as if his face was on fire. Goku touched his cheek for confirmation only to wince at the burning sensation. He looks back at Celestia who was still as calm and relaxed as ever. "Haha, so I guess you worked out the kinks?"
Celestia smiles and rubs her cheek as well. Even with her impressive healing magic, she was going to have a bruise for a few days. "I must say I can certainly understand how you pushed Luna to such an extent. I don't think it would be wise for me to hold back any longer. I hope there won't be any hard feelings afterward..." Celestia then leveled both of her palms out and her horn ignited. Her hands shined brightly before quickly dying down. Goku watched on with fascination as he saw Celestia outfitted with a pair of shimmering gauntlets.
"It feels good to wear these again. My gauntlets are a part of my armor in my quarters. The last time I wore them was during the many strifes of Equestria's founding. I will not bore you with the details right now. But I know I must put an end to this match," Celestia said as she teleported from her position and appeared in front of Goku. She threw out a punch that Goku went to block. Unfortunately for the Saiyan warrior, the blow exploded on contact and blew Goku back. He felt the same burning sensation as before only this time it was much stronger. A stoic demeanor replaced Celestia's motherly expression as she narrows her eyes at him whereas Goku smile was in full force.
"Whoa...! Did you feel that? Celestia power just spiked up!" Spike said.
"O-Oh, yep, sure did. I guess Goku should be careful," Scootaloo said awkwardly. Spike arches a brow at this but dismissed it and continued watching.
Celestia darted toward Goku at high speeds and threw another punch. Goku donned his aura and focused his ki to his arm for added defense. He manages to soften the blow, but the force still blew Goku back. He noticed that Celestia teleported and tried to track her. Goku felt her Ki and immediately uses high-speed movement to dodge her drive bomb from above. She turns her head to the right and backhanded Goku just as he can into view behind her. Goku shook off the pain and vanished again. Celestia held her pose as her horn lit up and she too disappears. This cause Goku to miss wildly with a left punch directed at the sun princess face. Celestia responded by teleporting back into her previous position while slamming Goku down to the arena floor. Goku recovers and flies off to gain some distance. However, he bumps into something substantial.
"You aren't going to get anywhere if you keep retreating," Celestia said playfully as the heat from her body radiated. Goku couldn't tell if he was sweating from the weather or the rising feeling of nervousness. He quickly went for a roundhouse kick, hoping to surprise her with a sudden action. Celestia saw this coming and teleported behind him. She clasped her arms together and raised them high. She connected with an overhead double handed strike that once again exploded upon impact. Goku was sent plummeting to the ground at high speeds. His form was dragged across the ground before he came to a stop.
"OH, MY GOODNESS FIGHT FANS. SON GOKU WHO WAS PREVIOUSLY UNSTOPPABLE THROUGHOUT THE TOURNAMENT HAS NOW FOUND HIMSELF STRUGGLING AGAINST HER HIGHNESS DEVASTATING ASSAULT. HAS HE BITTEN OFF MORE THAN HE COULD CHEW HERE AND FINALLY MET HIS MATCH?"
Goku grunted in response as he pulls himself up from the ground. "She's better at close combat than her sister is, but how was she able to track my movements so easily?"
"The answer is quite simple..." Celestia said as she barrels towards Goku. She slams her fist into his stomach, resulting in another explosion, and smashes him against the shield wall — the armored fist digging into his stomach. Goku grabs hold of the offending limb and stares defiantly at the solar ruler. "I wanted to test the limit of that magical resistance you possess so I lace a tracking spell on every attack I sent against you. Your natural Ki only reacts to a strong intensity of magic. So a low-level tracking spell can be placed upon you. That's how I was able to follow those movements of yours, but I assure you it was no easy feat,"
Goku grunts as Celestia dug her fist into him harder, but he still manages a smirk. "Well, looks like your full of surprises..."
"I'm not the only one. You have yet to reveal your other techniques in this battle. You are quite powerful, but you should never underestimate a princess of Equestria!" Celestia said in a firm tone as she lifted Goku across the shield and slams him into the dirt. She pressed harder until Goku's body sank into the ground. An enormous crater shot out, and the field looked as though a sword slashed against it. Goku flew out of the trench and landed on the ground. He panted heavily as his Gi was, once again, worst for wear. The orange layer on top was completely gone, and his blue shirt was exposed. He had to holes right on his knees, and the explosion had left scorch marks on most of his upper body.
"Huh, guess I got no choice..." Goku said. Celestia wanted to press home; her advantage rushed Goku again. She reared her fist back and collided with his face. Another explosion rang and engulfed their forms. Suddenly, the smoke clears away, and the solar princess eyes widened in shock. Goku had blocked her punch with his palm and his covered in a blazing red aura.
"KAIO-KEN!!!" Goku shouted.
"Kaio what--" This time Celestia was cut off as Goku slams his punch right into her gut. She doubles over in pain, but Goku continued. He grabs her face and thrust his arm out, throwing the sun princess back into the shields.
"WHOA! ONCE AGAIN SON GOKU HAS SHOCKED US ALL AND TURNED THE TABLES! NOW INSTEAD OF WHITE, A BURNING RED AURA HAS ENVELOPED HIS FORM! WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR THE PRINCESS?!"
"Hey, Rarity... Was this the form Goku used to defeat Torch?" Starlight asked.
"That's quite right, darling. Although I'm sure the princess will hopefully fare much better," Rarity responded.
Celestia brought herself back to a standing position as she studies Goku carefully. She was finding truth in Twilight's words about this technique boosting his power. That last punch nearly knocked the wind out of her. Celestia had doubted the shields could hold up should he multiply his power's again. They would have to take this fight to the skies. One thing was for sure to the sun princess. She had wanted to gauge Goku's strength, and now she was getting a front-row seat. Celestia flared her wings out and made herself look as threatening as possible while taking her boxer stance. Goku took his position as his aura flared brightly. The two lock eyes before they shot at each other.
Both fighter's had the same idea about not involving any bystanders and shot up to the skies. Goku was wasting no time as launches two Ki blast at the princess. Celestia brought her gauntlets up and batted both of them away. However, both of her hands were trembling from the action. Celestia had no time to speculate as Goku was upon her again. His attacks were fast and relentless as Celestia now found herself on the defensive. Goku landed another body blow that sent the solar princess reeling. He then followed up with a dropkick that pushed her back. Despite her predicament, Celestia fires a magic beam towards her aggressor in hopes of slowing him down. Goku chose to evade by flickering out the pathway of the attack. Celestia saw this and tried to hone in on the tracking spell she placed on Goku earlier. But to her dismay, Goku was moving far faster than he was previously. The next thing the sun alicorn knew was a sharp pain in her muzzle. She quickly went to counter with a body blow of her own. As Goku doubles over, Celestia fires a beam from her fist buried in Goku's stomach. The magical energy pushed Goku further and further away, allow Celestia to recover. Goku managed to escape the blast and charged up his Ki.
"Twin Dragon Shot!" He called out as two blue orbs materialized from his hands. "Alright, torpedo no.1 away!" He said as the ball darted toward Celestia. Celestia recovers enough just in time to see something heading her way. Her eyes slam open as the Ki orb got closer. She instantly teleported to another position and witness as the blast destroyed a mountain top. "Torpedo no. 2 away!" Goku said as he fires the second orb. Celestia no time to dodge this one and instead puts up a shield around herself. Despite her protection, Celestia's guard broke down once the blast blows up in front of her. Celestia looks around once the ringing in her ears stops to find multiple images of Goku all around her.
"SON GOKU HAS JUST OPENED UP HIS BAG OF TRICKS AND SURROUNDED THE PRINCESS WITH MULTIPLE COPIES OF HIMSELF. HOW WILL HIGHNESS REACT?"
A drop of sweat fell from Celestia's brow as she tried to pinpoint the whereabouts of the real Goku. A task made increasingly difficult when Goku started mocking her. "What's the matter, Celestia? Having trouble finding the real me? I thought you could trace my movements?"
Celestia huffs at this and clasps her hands together. "If I can't locate the original then I shall rid the air space of all of you at once! Solaris Commandment: Blazing Illumination!" She called out. A bright flash of light shot from Celestia in all direction, wiping out the afterimages and sending the real Goku spiraling away. Goku manages to steady himself and stares down Celestia. He had an inkling that she was still saving her power for something big, so he decided to up the ante to bring it out.
"Time to end this! HAAA!!!" Goku called out. His aura flares out strongly. Celestia's eyes widened again as Goku clasp his together and begin chanting that familiar phrase. "KAAAA...!"
Down below, Twilight's mane was frazzled and full of split ends. She laughed manically at the readings from the Scouter as her friends try to console. "Goku's power...just jumped to 180,000. Isn't that just grand?" She asked in a rhetorical sense before she started babbling. The other royals were wondering if the young princess had finally lost her marbles
"MEEEEE HAAAA...!" Goku continued.
"Oh drake, this is it!" Spike said with excitement.
"What is it? All I can see are blurs and flashes," Scootaloo whined. This reaction caused Spike to quirk a brow.
"MEEEEE...!" As the blue orb formed in Goku's palms, Celestia had raised her right arm high above her head. From the forced perspective, it looked as if the burning star in the sky was resting on the palm of the solar alicorn. Even more so when a miniature version, the sun began to form above her hand.
"Solaris Commandment..." Celestia said as the mini star intensified.
"HAAAAAAA...!!!!" Goku roared as thrust his arms forward and launched the biggest Kamehameha wave yet.
"SCORCHING EMPRESS!!!" Celestia roared out as well and launched the mini star forward. The moment it left her palm, the condensed ball of magic expanded to twice its size. Magic and Ki collided, and the struggle for dominance took place. The battle continued until the violent reaction of the two foreign powers erupts in a blinding flash of light that engulfed both fighters.
Down at the Colosseum, the many spectators were in a state of panic as the dome of light grew larger and larger. Many believe that the energies above would consume the entirety of Canterlot and started running toward the exits. Other's found themselves unable to move. Even with the possibility of imminent death, the remaining audience members wanted to see this battle through to the end. Sombra himself was among that percentage.
"SOMBRA! WE HAVE TO LEAVE!!!" Hope yelled out as she tried to pull her friend away.
Sombra wasn't budging, however. "Look at it, Hope. It's glorious!" Sombra spoke with delight. His features were a mix of excitement and fear. He watched in astonishment as the dome of energy got closer. "I must see this through to the end. Leave me if you must..."
"YOU'RE A BUCKING IGNORAMUS!!!" Hope hollered out as she places a shield over them in the hopes of somehow surviving the blast.
"THAT BALL OF ENERGY IS COMING CLOSER AND CLOSER FIGHT FANS! I DOUBT THERE WILL BE ANYTHING LEFT OF CANTERLOT AT THIS RATE! HOWEVER... THROUGH THE DARKEST OF TIMES; AN ANNOUNCER MUST ALWAYS REMAIN VIGILANT AND GIVE YOU FANS THE PLAY BY PLAY OF ANY SPORTING EVENT! IF THIS IS TO BE MY END THEN, ALL I ASK IS THAT YOU REMEMBER THIS DAY FONDLY!" C.C. said although it was doubtful that anyone heard him.
Lucky for the citizens of Canterlot. The end would not come this day. The blast of energy died down before it could reach the surface. The skies finally cleared, and everyone slowly realized that the threat to their wellbeings has ended. The Colosseum had barely withstood the combined powers of the Solar Alicorn and the Saiyan Warrior. Cracks adorned the walls and pillars. Pieces of rubble lay scattered around on the ground. But this mattered little to everyone present as they were desperately searching for the combatants.
"Where the hay are they?" Applejack asked.
"I-I haven't the faintest clue, darling," Rarity responds.
"You don't suppose that they're both...Gone?" Starlight hesitated to say.
"Oh, I Hope not..." Fluttershy said squeamishly.
Just then, Pinkie's body started jittering. "OH! Knee's knocking, fingers curling, teeth grinding. Something is about to appear- Wait! -make that two somethings!" Pinkie declared. And sure enough, both fighters had reappeared in the arena floor.
"OH, MY, FOLKS! I DON'T KNOW HOW BUT BOTH FIGHTER'S HAVE SURVIVED THE NERVE RACKING ORDEAL. AND SWEET FAUST! THEY LOOK LIKE THEY HAVE BEEN TO TARAUSAS AND BACK! THE PRINCESS LOVELY FLOWING MANE AND TAIL HAS BECOME DISHEVELED AND SHORTENED. HER DRESS IS TORN TO SHREDS, DAMAGED BEYOND REPAIR. THANKFULLY HER MORE- *AHEM* -MODEST AREAS ARE INTACT. SON GOKU ISN'T LOOKING MUCH BETTER. HIS UPPER BODY IS COMPLETELY EXPOSED AND COVERED IN DRIED BLOOD AND SCORCH MARKS. HOWEVER, DESPITE APPEARANCES, BOTH COMBATANTS ARE STILL READY TO CONTINUE!!!"
Goku and Celestia stared at each other for a long time, waiting for the other to make a move. Celestia was trying to formulate a plan as she ran through scenarios in her head. "He truly is stronger than I could have predicted. It's amazing beings such as him exist beyond the veil of stars. I will have to rely on my reserve to calm victory here..." She thought as she brought her hand up. However, she stops once she sees Goku features shift from a focused demeanor to a cheerful expression. "What could he be planning?"
"Alright, this has been fun, but it's over now," Goku stated much to Celestia's confusion. She tensed up in preparation for anything until the next thing Goku did through her for a loop. "I give up," Silence reigned throughout the arena as everyone tried to process what they just heard.
"WHAAAAAAAT?!?!?!" The occupants said in unison. C.C. recovered faster than anyone else and addressed the Saiyan warrior.
"THIS UNPRECEDENTED FIGHT FANS! SON GOKU HAS FORFEITED THE MATCH!! I SUPPOSE ONE CANNOT BLAME HIM WHEN FACING SUCH ADVERSITY. BUT HE STILL GAVE HIS ALL AND SHOWED US A MARVELOUS DISPLAY. LET'S GIVE HIM A BIG HAND ALL AROUND!" And the crowd did just that. There was no miss grieving or ill tidings. The audience witnessed some of the greatest matches in history. It only seemed fair to applaud the one who entertained them so thoroughly. "THE WINNER OF THIS MATCH IS HER MAJESTY; PRINCESS CELESTIA OF EQUESTRIA!" C.C. declared, and even loud applause erupted.
Although, despite everything that transpired, Celestia was still confused. Goku picked up on this and connected her telepathically. "Hiya princess, something on your mind?" He joked.
Celestia's eyes widen again as she heard Goku voice inside her mind. "Another one of your abilities I assume?"
"Yep," Goku said.
"Why did you submit? Surely you still hold more power..." Celestia pondered.
"That's the thing. If either of us exerted more power than we'd probably destroy the entire continent, besides, even then I would most likely still lose," Goku said a matter of factly. Once again, Celestia looks at him with surprise.
She began chuckling as she regarded his words. "You know something. You are perhaps the only being that has given me more surprises in a year than I've had throughout my entire life. I truly enjoyed this," Celestia stated happily.
"Haha, me too," Goku replied cheerfully.
"To think our sister would resort to the commandments... We must conclude our battle with Goku so that we may feel such exhilaration!" Luna declares.
"I think I've had enough excitement to last for eternity..." Cadence said as she clutches her heart.
"Ditto," Shining Armor added before he turns to Twilight who was still babbling incoherently. "Maybe we should get Twily home,"
The elements and Starlight were all having similar reactions as well. "Whoa, doggy! That was some slobber knocker!" Applejack cheered.
"I know, right!" Pinkie said with a huge grin plastered on her face.
"I think I'm going to need a break from all this fighting," Starlight comments.
"I hope Goku isn't too sad for not winning," Fluttershy said with concern.
"He'll be fine, darling. Although I can't say the same about my beautiful coiffure," Rarity added as she tried to smooth out the wrinkles in her mane.
"I guess I should have seen that coming. Goku knows how strong every pony is, right, Scootaloo?" Spike said as he turned to his fellow pupil only to find sweat all over her face and fear in her eyes. "Are you alright?"
"O-Oh, um, y-yes. I'm just glad all that's over..." She said timidly. Spike arched a brow at this odd behavior.
As the cheering and applause continued, One stallion had a delighted look on his face. "I must say I am pleased with the proceedings,"
"I am glad you enjoyed yourself. Now can we leave before Canterlot implodes?" Hope said.
"Yes, it is time to move on to the next phase," Sombra said as Hope's horn lit up. Sombra took one last look at Goku's smiling face before he smiled as well. "I can't wait to see your face filled with despair..." And with, that the two unicorns vanished in an orb of light.