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The four lessons that Junior learned from his teachers on what it means to be the King of the Monsters.

A Tale of Three KingsIn many ways, Skull Island was an arena. An arena that housed some of the biggest bouts in the history of Terra. Like the one going on right now. In one corner, ten young Skull Crawlers, two Vastatosaurus rexes, one giant snake, and two Alpha Skull Crawlers. In the other corner, Skull Island’s king and protector, Kong. Kong flexed his fingers. While still not quite as big as some of Terra’s other heavy hitters, the King of Skull Island had grown quite a bit since the days he’d been training a certain young Godzillasaur. And while this definitely would seem challenging to almost any other opponent, in truth, this was a handicap match for anyone not named Kong.One of the V.rexes made the first move. It roared and lunged at the king before being easily caught in Kong’s iron grip. The giant snake slithered around and attempted to flank Kong as he held the large predator at bay. Once it had a significant perch, it too lunged forward, only for Kong to slap it out of the air mid jump and crumple to the ground. Three of the young Crawlers all hissed and tried to rush the king, thinking their superior numbers would give them an edge on the much larger opponent. However, they seemed to have forgotten that Kong was still holding the V.rex at bay. In a show of titanic strength, Kong lifted the rex into the air and slammed it down onto the young Crawlers, crushing them. One of the Alphas hissed at the other to strike from the sides as the two split up. Meanwhile, the other rex charged at the king from the front. A three way attack. Perfectly executed.Despite his large size, Kong was surprisingly light on his feet. And in an impressive display of agility, he avoided the Vastatosaurus’ charge before grabbing it by the tail. He tore the predator from the ground and swung it like a club, smashing one of the Alphas in the face. The other Alpha hesitated after seeing its compatriot get smacked down, which gave Kong ample time to smash the Vastatosaurus into it. Seeing their leaders so summarily defeated, the younger Crawlers decided to cut their losses and slither off. However, Kong wasn’t about to let them get away.Picking up a large rock, Kong threw it as hard as he could, catching three more Crawlers under its weight. Only four remained. And the shock of the impact had jostled them, allowing Kong to catch up. He grabbed two of them by the tails in each hand, and slammed them into the other two, killing all four. Meanwhile, the first Vastatosaurus, still alive but dazed, struggled to its feet. However, before it could fully recover, it once again felt Kong’s iron grip on its jaws. The creature struggled against Skull Island’s mightiest son, but it was in vain. With a mighty roar and a sickening crunch, Kong tore the Vastatosaurus’ jaws apart in a violent display of gore. Kong allowed the creature’s corpse to fall from his grasp before beating his chest and letting out a mighty roar. A warning to any challengers that Skull Island was under his protection.Once his roar was done, Kong let his arms drop to his sides. While the battle had been exciting, it had been a long time since any of the creatures of the island had posed a challenge to him. Despite knowing nothing would be there, Kong couldn’t help but look over his shoulder. Despite the fact that it had been almost twenty years, he still expected a small Godzillasaur to be watching his every move. However, he knew that Godzilla Junior wasn’t there. He was probably off fighting some sort of giant space dragon somewhere in the world. He knew his student would be fine. Right now though, he was hungry. While the fight hadn't been difficult, it still worked up an appetite. What Kong didn’t see as he turned to leave was another enemy hiding in the shadows. The third enemy snarled and licked its maw at Kong, who had let his guard down completely. Once it was certain Kong did not know it was there, it leapt from its hiding spot and reared its claws back. Kong heard its approach at the last moment and turned to face this new interloper. Knowing he wouldn’t have enough time to dodge the blow, Kong raised his arm to try and block it. The creature’s claws raked across Kong’s forearm, leaving a gash that, while not debilitating, was still painful.Kong snarled at his new opponent. Another Alpha Skull Crawler. But this one was different from the others. It had several distinctive red markings running along its body, and it was much larger than a normal Alpha. The Crawler hissed at Kong as the greatest of apes glared. Knowing that this injury would make things a bit tougher than usual, Kong scanned the area for something he could use until his eyes landed on a nearby ironwood. Kong ran towards the old tree and, in one smooth motion, uprooted it and stripped it of its branches. The king of Skull Island turned to face his opponent again, brandishing his makeshift club. Kong roared a challenge to the Crawler, which it was all too happy to answer. The Crawler rushed Kong, ready to take another swing at the mighty ape. Kong readied his club, daring the infernal beast to come closer. The Skull Crawler leapt into the air, hissing wildly.However, before either combatant could make contact, a blue and white blast of light consumed the large Alpha. Kong halted his swing as the light continued on until it hit a nearby rock face before dying out. Kong looked at the aftermath of the damage. All that was left of the Alpha was a smoldering, charred corpse. Kong was dumbfounded for a moment, before he put his club down. It seemed he had company. Normally, a blast of blue and white light meant that his former student had come to visit. However, this one was different. More like a flame than a beam. First thing’s first though, treating his wound, and getting some food. He knew this particular company wouldn’t mind waiting a bit while Kong caught some mire squid.An old friend had come to visit.========Twenty Minutes Later========With his wound dressed and his catch flung over his shoulder, Kong made his way down to the shore. There, waiting for him, was his old friend. While his friend bore some resemblance to his former student, there were several noticeable features that differed from Godzilla Junior. He was taller, bulkier, and more crocodilian looking than Godzilla Junior. His spines were also more jagged and less pointed. However, he’d known this old man since he was still a whelp. And he rarely came by. So he knew it was important.“Gojira!” Kong called, “You look like you’ve put on some weight.”Gojira turned to see Kong approaching.“I seem to recall you were still small the last time I visited your shores.” Gojira shot back.Kong let out an amused grunt.“Looks like you finally learned how to speak normally.”Gojira grunted in annoyance.“The tongue of the hatchlings is still odd to me.” Gojira grumbled, “But if it allows the youngling to understand me more easily, then I am willing to learn.”Kong took a seat beside his old friend, taking another bite of his squid. He offered some to Gojira.“I am full.” Gojira commented, “The old power keeps me nourished.”Kong nodded, not entirely sure what he meant, but at least he'd made the offer. “I take it that something happened?” Kong asked grimly, “You wouldn’t be here otherwise.”Gojira hung his head and let out a sigh from his nostrils.“The boy,” Gojira began using the nickname he’d given Godzilla Junior, “his scent has disappeared from the oceans.”“What?!” Kong shouted, “Disappeared? Does that mean he’s-”“He is not dead.” Gojira reassured, “If he were dead, I would still be able to smell him. For his scent to disappear completely should be impossible.”Kong looked at Gojira in confusion.“What does that even mean?” Kong asked, “That he’s just…..gone?”“It would seem that way.” Gojira said.Kong was perplexed. He knew Junior’s life was hard. He knew that there were times that he had been brought to the brink of death. There were times where he was worried that the moth or one of his other allies would come to his island and tell him that Junior had fallen. But for him to just disappear was odd. But even if he was gone, the fact that Gojira, one of Terra’s best trackers was telling him that Junior was alive, wherever he was, was reassuring.“If he is alive,” Kong began, “then I’m not worried. He’s strong enough to handle whatever comes his way.”“I know.” Gojira said, “I have seen it in how he fights. His movements, the way he acts, the way he scans a battlefield for any advantage he can find. He learned to fight from you.”Kong snorted, taking another bite of his squid.“I forgot.” Kong grunted, “You went at it with him. I guess you’d know what he’s like.”“True.” Gojira began, “But I have also fought by his side.”Kong was just about to take another bite of his squid when he stopped himself.“What?” Kong asked, “He never told me about that.”“I suppose he would not.” Gojira said, “He seemed strange after the battle. But I did not wish to open old wounds, as it were.”Kong sat up straighter as Gojira turned to face him. The old king knew that his friend would want to know the tale. He shifted into a more comfortable position before turning his gaze towards the ocean.“It began many moons ago…..”========San Francisco BaySix Months Ago========Gojira was angry. And when the ancient king was angry, the last place anything wanted to be was in his way. He’d chosen to visit the gravesite of his fallen kin. The one the humans called “Adam.” However, when he had arrived, the bones were gone. Only the scent of something that did not belong was left in their place. Gojira had been tracking the scent for days, only missing the source by moments before it fled to another part of the globe. Now, he’d cornered it. It didn’t matter what this creature was, he would kill it for desecrating his nephew’s remains.Gojira broke the surface of the bay as he began a slow trek into the city. While the arrival of any Kaiju usually meant loud noises like screaming, sirens, and evacuations, this time, it was almost deathly silent. Gojira was normally one who enjoyed silence, but for what was supposed to be a quiet city, he found it unnerving. Still, the scent was close and he would not get anywhere by standing in the bay. The old king waded through the water before finally making landfall near the harbor. Gojira was not a particularly stealthy individual, so trying to keep a low profile was not an option as he searched the city, taking special care not to damage any human nests. While Gojira bore no strong feelings towards the denizens of this world, he bore no ill-will to the ones who chose not to make him their enemy.As Gojira continued his trek through the human nests, the scent grew stronger and more repugnant. That was when he saw it. A creature hunched over one of the human machines that created energy similar to the old power. Gojira could sense the energy depleting as the creature loomed over the machine. It was large, quite possibly even larger than Gojira himself. Its skin resembled old tree bark and was a dark shade of green that could almost pass for black. Much like Gojira, it had several rows of spines running down its back. But this creature’s spines were comparatively small. It was bulky, but almost unnaturally so. While its legs and tail were in proportion, its arms were unnaturally large. But worst of all, was its face. Almost completely expressionless. Its mouth, rather than any lips, merely resembled jagged teeth. All capped off by a pair of cold, uncaring blue eyes. Gojira couldn’t stand the sight of this abomination. Whatever it was, it had desecrated the grave of his kin, bastardized his form, and now was upsetting the balance that he and others worked so hard to maintain.“Return my kin’s remains and leave now.” Gojira commanded.The creature turned and looked at Gojira impassively. It had heard him. But its expressionless face made it impossible to know if it understood him. “Must I repeat myself?” Gojira asked angrily, “Return my kin’s remains and leave now!”The creature seemed to perk up at this. Gojira stood and observed it as it continued to stare impassively. It had definitely understood him that time. However, rather than comply with the old king’s demands, the creature looked down at its feet. Gojira was initially confused at its actions. However, confusion eventually led to anger as the creature picked up a large human transport and threw it at Gojira. The former alpha predator snarled as he slapped it away. Realizing words were wasted on this abomination, Gojira slapped his tail against the ground before letting loose the loudest roar he possibly could. A challenge to the monstrosity standing before him. The creature stared impassively again before it began to lean forward slowly. Each movement of its body seemed to make some sort of terrible creaking sound. Like old wood breaking apart. It finally began to slowly open its jaws and let out a roar that, while not dissimilar from the ones similar to Gojira made, sounded more garbled. Whatever this creature was, it was wrong in every possible way. And Gojira would be the one to correct this mistake.Gojira rushed his opponent with a level of speed that many would not have expected from a creature his size. The abomination merely stood impassively as the old king slammed into it with a powerful shoulder charge. The creature fell to the ground, creaking as its body met the pavement. Gojira, not wanting his opponent to have any breathing room, pressed his assault, grabbing the opponent by the scruff of its neck and dragging it up. Gojira opened his maw before clamping it down on the beast’s shoulder. However, instead of the taste of muscle and sinew, Gojira’s teeth met with the taste of tree bark. The old king was perplexed at exactly what this abomination was. He could sense the bones of his nephew within it. But it didn’t seem to have true musculature. However, Gojira’s distraction proved to be detrimental as the abomination raised a fist and drove it into the old king’s cheek with a powerful punch. Gojira let go of his opponent’s shoulder and let out a painful groan.The old king stumbled back, but managed to keep himself upright. The abomination began to stomp its way towards Gojira, another punch in the waiting. However, Gojira saw it coming a mile away and easily avoided it. Gojira returned the favor with a powerful claw swipe, catching the creature across the muzzle. The creature swung again, but Gojira easily avoided the punch. While it was powerful, it had no technique. And, while he wasn’t quite as good as he used to be, Gojira had seen more battles than most things on this planet. He could predict its movements easily. The real problem was trying to find a soft spot. The abomination fell back again as Gojira began trying every vulnerable spot he could think of. Stomach, neck, eyes, he tried all of them. But he couldn’t seem to make much of a dent in this creature’s armor. Gojira finally started to get somewhere when he struck the chest. While it wasn’t noticeable at first, Gojira did see that his claw had made deeper wounds in the chest than any of the other spots he’d tried. Whatever this abomination was, it had clearly put itself together in a hurry when it desecrated Adam’s remains. All Gojira had to do was keep digging into the chest and this fight would be over.Gojira slammed his tail into the abomination’s face, causing it to stumble back. Gojira lurched forward and dug his claws into the creature’s chest.“You have no soul!” Gojira roared.Gojira began to pull at the abomination’s chest as it splintered and cracked. However, Gojira’s roar seemed to awaken something in the creature. A sort of familiarity. Its eyes seemed to change, going from blank and lifeless to bright and full of intelligence. The abomination roared back. However, instead of unnatural noises that amounted to nothing like the previous roar, it seemed to answer Gojira’s roar.“That is why I have no fear!”Gojira’s assault paused as he took in what he had just heard. Had this thing just spoken? That pause was all it needed to drive another punch into Gojira’s cheek. The old king was stunned for a moment, but managed to regain his footing in time to avoid the second punch. Gojira threw another claw swipe, catching the creature in the shoulder before throwing all his weight behind another shoulder charge. The creature stumbled, but was not knocked off its feet like the previous time. The creature spun on its feet, throwing its tail in a devastating tail whip that slammed into Gojira’s chest. The old king stumbled back again, crashing through one of the human nests he took so many pains to avoid, before falling to the ground. Gojira raised his head up to catch a glimpse at his opponent.Damn it all! Gojira thought as he rose back to his full height, This abomination is learning as it fights!The old king rushed forward again as the creature ran to meet him. Gojira ducked under another punch and bore his teeth, ready to bite down on this thing’s arm. However, he did not notice the creature’s other arm before it slammed directly into his chin. Blood and saliva flew from the old king’s mouth as his body met the ground again. But the creature wasn’t done yet. It grabbed Gojira’s tail and began to lift him up. The creature spun on its heel, building momentum as it spun and as Gojira roared and attempted to free himself in some way. However, the old king could not figure out a way to free himself before the creature released him from its grasp, sending him flying. Gojira let out a pained roar as he crashed headfirst into another human nest. Gojira was hurt. But his pride refused to let him fall before this creature. He tried to get up again, but his arms gave out from under him. He placed his arms down again in another attempt to rise back up. But before he could, he felt something grab onto the back of his head. The abomination dragged the old king as he tried in vain to free himself from its iron grip. The creature dragged the old king to another human nest before it raised its opponent back up. It slammed Gojira’s face into the nest as it crumbled from the impact. The abomination moved to another nest and slammed the old king into it again. Then found another one and repeated the process. Again and again, Gojira’s face met steel and concrete. Once again unable to free himself, Gojira was forced to just endure hit after hit until the creature finally let up. It callously tossed the old king aside as he fell to the ground. The old king coughed up more blood and saliva as he finally regained his senses. He planted his arms under himself again and pushed himself back up. He turned his head towards where his opponent had been to see it seemingly chuckling. Gojira rose back to his full height and roared at the abomination in defiance. He slammed his tail into the pavement as the spines near the tip of his tail began to flicker with a neon blue light. A loud whirring sound filled the air as the spines along his back began to light up in sequence. The creature studied its opponent before its own spines began to crackle with energy. Instead of lighting up in sequence however, the creature’s spines lit up all at once with a crackling energy surrounding them. Gojira’s eyes narrowed. If this would be a battle of wills, then so be it.Gojira threw his maw open and let the old power fly in a fiery blast. At the same time, the creature opened its maw as well and released its own powerful blast of energy. Their respective attacks smashed into each other as a massive amount of energy built up between them. Neither combatant was willing to give an inch as the two of them continued to pour more and more power forward. Gojira’s eyes began to water and blood began to pool in them. While the old power was his trump card that he used to overpower things that couldn’t be defeated with physical might, it had one small caveat: Gojira needed to be able to breathe in order to use it. And currently, all his breath had been given to this current blast. Gojira struggled against the creature’s assault as he tried to pour more power than he really had into his attack.The creature, meanwhile, seemed to be drawing from a bottomless reservoir of power as its attack began to overpower Gojira’s. Gojira’s eyes went bloodshot as his attack was pushed back. Out of breath and nearly out of power, Gojira’s attack fizzled out as the creature’s attack smashed into him. A massive gash was carved into Gojira’s chest as he fell to the ground once again. A weak roar left his throat as the old king tried to show any form of defiance he could. The abomination stomped over to its fallen opponent and grabbed him by the jaw. It pulled Gojira’s jaws apart as the old king struggled as best he could. But he was too wounded and too tired to put up anything more than a token resistance. The creature’s spines crackled to life again as it kept Gojira’s jaws open. The old king knew what was coming. He had used this attack before. Firing the old power down an opponent’s throat to cook them from the inside out. Simple, but effective. And the ultimate irony that it would be used to kill him. The monstrosity seemed to laugh as it finished charging the killing blow. As he felt fear for the first time since times immemorial, Gojira closed his eyes as the creature fired its attack.Before it could do the deed, however, a loud, thunderous blow that would have felled a lesser opponent, slammed into the monstrosity, causing its attack to fire off in a random direction. The blow also caused it to release its grip on Gojira as the old king fell to the ground again. The monstrosity was sent flying and crashed into the ground as Gojira’s unfocused vision tried to make out his savior. It cut a very similar silhouette to himself, but was far less bulky and more evenly built. It had charcoal grey scales and large, white spines that briefly flickered blue before it exhaled. However, instead of a normal blast of energy, a calming blue cloud was released and washed over Gojira’s body. As the energy washed over him, Gojira felt his strength return. His savior repeated the procedure two more times, allowing the gash in Gojira’s chest to finally close. It wasn’t enough to fully restore his strength, but it was enough to revitalize and heal the wounded king. His vision finally began to refocus, as his savior extended a helping hand to the old king. In a voice that was gruff, but had an underlying kindness to it, his savior finally spoke.“You’re not dying here today, old timer.” Godzilla Junior commanded.Gojira lifted his hand and grabbed Junior’s. The younger king pulled his predecessor to his feet. “What are you doing here boy?” Gojira asked.“You’re not the only one who could tell something was wrong.” Junior said.The two kings watched as the creature stood back up. It’s body, creaking like a falling tree.“This is not your fight boy.” Gojira said, “This abomination desecrated the remains of my kin. I must be the one to destroy it.”Godzilla Junior looked at his elder incredulously.“You can’t beat this thing alone.” Junior countered, “Plus, if I remember right, you named me the new alpha, didn’t you?”Gojira turned to the young whelp.“So, by your code,” Junior said, “As the alpha, it’s my responsibility to take care of threats like this thing, right?”Gojira’s eyes widened. While a whelp talking back to him would normally make him angry, he could not help but feel respect swell up within him. The boy might have been a whelp in his eyes, but being able to turn his own logic against him was a noteworthy feat. The two kings turned to face their opponent. The monstrosity had risen back to its feet before it began to size up the newcomer.“Add as many weaklings as you wish.” it said dismissively, “You will all die the same way!”Godzilla Junior growled at the creature angrily, which Gojira took note of. While he knew it wasn’t his business, Gojira couldn’t help but notice a look of recognition in Junior’s eyes. Like he seemed to know what this thing was. But right now, that wasn’t important. What was important was that this thing needed to die. The creature let out another distorted roar, a challenge to the two kings. In response to the challenge, Godzilla Junior and Gojira let loose their own roars. A challenge to the beast to “bring it on,” as it were. All three combatants charged, ready for the final round to begin.The creature threw a powerful left hook at Godzilla Junior. However, despite the power behind the punch, Junior was a much more agile target than Gojira, and ducked under it. The creature’s pupils dilated in surprise as Junior drove a vicious right uppercut into its chin. The creature stumbled back as Gojira sprung into action and slammed into it with a powerful shoulder charge. The creature let out a pained groan as it slammed into the ground with a massive thud.“The chest!” Gojira shouted, “I weakened it earlier! Tear it open boy!”Godzilla Junior nodded and charged towards the prone abomination. With no hesitation, he dug his claws into the creature’s chest and began to tear at it. The sound of splintering wood filled the air as the gash that Gojira had made began to widen. However, before Junior could tear its chest open completely, a powerful right cross slammed into his cheek, sending the younger king to the ground. The creature got to its feet as Gojira leapt into action. It grabbed a hold of the abomination’s left arm as it prepared to pounce on Junior again. The abomination let out a surprised screech as the old king yanked it back. It attempted to use its free arm to knock the old king off it, only to feel it be seized as well. It turned to see a recovered Godzilla Junior holding its right arm still.“On three!” Junior shouted, “One!”“Two!” Gojira replied.“Three!” they both shouted.The two kings both heaved with all their might, the abomination being dragged along for the ride. Its face was driven into the pavement and dragged along the ground as it was unable to do anything to resist. Once it stopped however, it was swiftly yanked back by Godzilla Junior yanking on its tail. With all the strength he could muster, the young king heaved the creature up and over his shoulder before slamming it back first into the ground. Following Junior’s suplex, Gojira’s plates began to light up as a low whirring sound permeated through the air. The whirring grew faster and louder as the light began to travel up Gojira’s back. As it reached a fever pitch, Gojira released another blast of the old power from his maw. The blast hit the abomination square in the chest and sent it skittering back. Gojira’s eyes widened. Once he was certain the creature had been blasted back enough, he canceled out his attack.“Incredible.” Gojira said.“Looks like our powers mix pretty well.” Junior said as he went to the old king’s side.“Indeed.” Gojira said flatly, “The power you wield is similar to the old power.”“We’ll figure that out later.” Junior shot back, “Right now, we’ve got a fight to win.”Junior and Gojira turned to face the creature again as it rose to its feet. The two kings glanced at each other in acknowledgement before rushing the beast again. Gojira raised his right hand to take a swipe at it. But before it could connect, the beast ducked out of the way. Junior followed up with a powerful punch, but the creature avoided it as well. It drove its fist into Gojira’s chest, causing the old king to let out a pained grunt. Next, it slammed a powerful left hook into Junior’s cheek, forcing him to stumble back. It followed up with a swipe of its tail, catching both kings in the chest and knocking them back. The two kings fell to the ground as the beast grabbed Gojira by the throat.It dragged the old king across the ground as it charged forward. It drove Gojira’s head through another human nest as he let out a pained roar. Junior struggled to his feet as he watched his ally be pummeled into submission. “What the Daiei’s going on?” Junior said to himself, “We had this thing on the ropes.”It seemed as though brute force alone wasn’t going to cut it. Realizing this, Junior scanned the environment for something he could use. His eyes landed on a broken piece of a spire. It was long, made of metal, and pointed at the tip. Junior climbed to his feet and picked it up. He hoped it would be enough.Gojira winced as another uppercut was driven into his chin. The old king fell back to the ground as the creature began to stalk forward. However, before it could reach him, Godzilla Junior appeared from behind it with his improvised weapon. In a surprising display of agility for one his size, he leapt off the ground and drove the spire into the abomination’s neck. It stumbled forward as the sound of shattering wood filled the air. It didn’t react in pain like most living things would, but it had been taken by surprise. Junior hung on as tight as he could as the creature tried to throw him off. Gojira raised his head, seeing his ally in his current predicament. He knew that they needed to finish this thing off before it learned any more about how they fought. It was time for a bit of a gamble. He hadn’t used this in a long time, but it might be just what they needed.Gojira propped himself up with his hands. To the untrained eye, it might seem like the old king was attempting to get back on his feet. However, Gojira's hands never left the ground. He snarled and lashed his tail back and forth as his spines flickered. It was time to get primal. The old king lurched forward on all fours in a display of speed that betrayed his massive size. Junior saw his ally rushing forward and, without a second thought, pushed off the abomination. Gojira turned his head away from the beast at the last moment and drove his shoulder into its knee. It fell to the ground as Gojira righted himself. As it attempted to get up, the old king slapped it back down with his tail and gave chase. Gojira pushed off the ground with his arms, and pounced on the creature’s chest. He viciously clawed at it, shredding through its hide like it was nothing. The old king dug deeper and deeper, until finally, he made it through. His eyes went wide as he saw it. It was…..difficult to describe. Most creatures had a beating heart protected by a ribcage in their chests. But this thing didn’t seem have any organs except one. It looked like some kind of fungal growth attached to what had been Adam's shattered ribcage. It convulsed and shuddered as Gojira stared it down. Whatever this creature was, it shouldn’t exist. Gojira raised one of his hands and began to reach for the organ. It was time to end this.However, before he could grasp it, the creature sprang back to life and drove a fist into Gojira’s cheek. It grabbed the old king by the throat and heaved him up. Godzilla Junior rushed forward, only for the abomination to turn towards him and throw Gojira at the young king. The two of them slammed into each other and fell to the ground in a heap.“I cannot say I did not find you the least bit entertaining,” the abomination said with a somewhat mocking demeanor, "But your continued existence has begun to bore me. Farewell."The creature’s spines began to flicker to life, as an electric blue glow began to overtake them. Godzilla Junior climbed to his feet and faced the creature. His own spines began to light up as well, flickering to life much more quickly than Gojira’s. His eyes glowed with a vibrant blue light as he opened his maw and let loose a powerful blast of radioactive plasma. The creature let his own blast fly as the two blasts slammed into each other. A massive amount of energy was formed as the blasts struggled against one another. Godzilla Junior poured more and more power into his attack, hoping that it would be enough. It seemed to be working as Junior’s blast slowly began to push back his opponent’s. Little by little, Junior’s attack crept towards the abomination. However, just as the battle seemed to be decided, the creature’s organ glowed with a vibrant blue. And it seemed to have some sort of effect on its attack, as it began to grow more powerful. The blasts were pushed back towards Junior as he attempted to pump more energy into his own.Gojira raised his head and took in the struggle before him. Godzilla Junior was doing everything he could to try and turn the tides. But it wasn’t enough. Gojira saw a number of scars beginning to appear across his successor’s hide. He didn’t fully grasp the boy’s powers, but he could tell they were swiftly running out. If he didn’t do something soon, they would both perish. At that moment however, he realized something. Godzilla Junior’s energy had revitalized him, but it had also strengthened his final attack. It seemed that the boy’s power synergized well with his own. What if the opposite was true?Gojira’s spines lit up once more, his eyes glowing bright blue along with them. The boy had saved his life. It was time to return the favor. The old king inhaled deeply before letting a blast from the old power fly from his maw. However, instead of aiming for their foe, he aimed the blast at Godzilla Junior’s spines. The blast struck and, almost instantly, his spines seemed to absorb the energy Gojira had given him. The scars that danced across Junior’s hide began to fade and his eyes began to glow brighter and brighter. Godzilla Junior leaned back, before lurching back forward again, as the intensity of his blast seemed to double. Almost instantly, the creature’s attack was pushed back. The combined energy of the blasts slammed directly into the creature’s face and flew off into the distance as it collapsed to the ground. Godzilla Junior and Gojira canceled their respective attacks and stared down their opponent.The creature had fallen once more. However, this time, the combined might of the two kings had ensured that its head had been blasted clean off. On any other creature, that would have been the end of it. However, the organ within its chest still seemed to convulse and shudder. Not entirely sure if this thing was still alive, but unwilling to take chances, Godzilla Junior stomped over to the fallen form of his opponent. He stared down at the organ as it continued to pulse. With zero hesitation, the King of the Monsters drove his hand into the creature’s chest cavity and tore the organ out. He held it in his hand for a brief moment before he crushed it, then pumping some nuclear power into his hand to torch what was left of the remains. Junior opened his hand as the charred remains of the organ were swept up in the wind, breaking apart into ash. His victory assured, Godzilla Junior let out a powerful roar. An assurance to some that the battle was over. A warning to others that this world was protected.Gojira climbed to his feet, shaking the dust and debris free from his body. Once he was certain it had all fallen off, he began to stomp towards Junior. Once he got within earshot, he heard the boy say something beneath his breath.“They’ll never see it.” he said, “They’ll never see it now.”“What was that boy?” Gojira asked.Remembering he wasn’t alone, Godzilla Junior turned to face the old king.“It’s nothing.” Junior said.Gojira could tell that was far from true. But he also knew that the boy’s affairs were not his business. “It seems the balance has been restored for now.” Gojira said.“I guess.” Junior said, not fully understanding what the old timer meant.“Your help was,” Gojira paused, “appreciated. While I am the one who maintains the balance, I suppose I must learn that I am not alone in this world anymore.”“Well, I appreciate your help, too, old timer.” Junior said, “You know, we wouldn’t mind having you be a part of our group. The battles are only going to get tougher from here. We could use someone like you to help even the score.”Gojira paused to think things over. It was tempting. To have allies again. To once again know camaraderie and friendship. The boy was friends with Mosura’s kin as well. Perhaps seeing where his old friend’s lineage had gone would do him some good. However, there were other matters that weighed on him. The boy’s group was strong. But they could not be everywhere at once. There were things that they could not reach because they would be forced to battle one of those foul smelling beasts from that fire pit in the ocean, or one of those abominations that stank of his old nemesis.“It is a tempting offer.” Gojira began, “But I must refuse. My duty is to this world.”Godzilla Junior nodded, though it was clear he was disappointed in the old timer’s decision.“However,” Gojira began again, “Should you have need of me, you will know where I am.”Gojira looked at his successor one last time.“You are strong boy.” Gojira said, “Stronger than many. But great power like ours is a tool. It must be tempered by a strong mind, and a stronger heart.”Junior nodded. The old king may not have known, but that advice was something he'd needed to hear.“Keep your wits about you.” Gojira said, “And remember; I will be there should you have need of me. Until we meet again, boy.”With that, Gojira turned towards the sea. He did not look back at his successor, as he knew that he would be alright. His feet sunk back into the water, before he lurched into a forward position. His body sunk beneath the waves, leaving only his spines visible. Before long, they too sank, leaving the calm waters of the bay behind.========Six Months LaterSkull Island========Kong’s eyes went wide as Gojira finished his tale. The king of Skull Island knew his student had grown strong. But to earn praise from Gojira was no small feat. The two kings sat on the beach as the waves lapped against the shore. Before long however, Gojira stood to leave.“I will continue my search.” Gojira said, “I know he is important to you.”“Like I said, I’m not worried.” Kong shot back, “If you think he’s okay, then he is. It’s that simple.”Gojira snorted at Kong’s remark before turning to his old friend. He slowly extended his arm towards Kong in a gesture he’d seen among the hatchlings. Kong smirked at his old friend before gladly shaking his hand.“Until we meet again, old friend.” Gojira said.Gojira stomped back into the ocean before sinking beneath it completely. Much like Kong, he wasn’t worried about his successor. Wherever he was, Gojira knew that he was okay.========Six Weeks LaterCanterlot, Lunar Tower========Princess Luna waited intently as her guest for the night hogged her washroom. She had warned him not to let Chibi Moon near painting supplies, and the stains in his coat and mane were proof that she’d managed to get them anyway. The door to her washroom swung open as the still wet form of Godzilla Junior stepped out. With a towel draped over his head, he attempted to tousle himself dry.“I warned you, didn’t I?” Luna said dryly.“You did.” Junior replied, “I should have listened. Chibi and paint do not mix.”Luna chuckled as Junior finally managed to get himself dried off.“So, I can’t imagine you called me here for nothing.” Junior said, “Is something wrong Lulu?”“Well,” Luna said, a slight blush creeping into her complexion, “Do you want to watch the stars tonight? It’s just that it can be a little dull around here by myself and I-”“Lulu, you don’t have to make up excuses.” Junior said, “I’d love to.”Luna smiled. She opened the door to her balcony and led her companion outside. The Lunar Princess sat down on her haunches as the King of the Monsters joined her. The two of them raised their eyes to the heavens. The countless stars shined down on them like a million lanterns, and, despite the similarities to the night sky on Terra, Godzilla Junior couldn’t help but be in awe of it. Luna smiled at her companion, before turning her own gaze to her night sky.“Young Starlight’s lessons are going well.” Luna said, “Though I must say, being a teacher is quite challenging.”“Really?” Junior said, turning his gaze to Luna, “I would think you’d be a natural.”“Celestia is the better teacher.” Luna said, “But she’s been willing to help me whenever I ask.”Junior chuckled as he looked to the sky once more.“Teaching Chibi has been tough.” Junior said, “But honestly, teaching someone else is rewarding. Being able to pass on everything my teachers have given me is…..difficult to describe.”“It fills you with pride.” Luna finished for him, “Both in yourself, and your student. It allows you to ensure the knowledge you have survives and impart it to another eager young mind. It’s difficult, but it’s worth it. Right?”Junior smiled to himself. He’d had many teachers over his life. His mother taught him kindness. His father taught him strength. Kong had taught him to fight. And another good king had taught him control. He was grateful for everything he’d learned over his life and everyone who had ever taught him. And now he had gotten to experience what they had felt with him. He leaned into Luna’s shoulder as the Lunar Princess smiled to herself.“Yeah.” Junior said, “It’s a wonderful feeling.”

“Teaching Chibi has been tough.” Junior said, “But honestly, teaching someone else is rewarding. Being able to pass on everything my teachers have given me is…..difficult to describe.”

“It fills you with pride.” Luna finished for him, “Both in yourself, and your student. It allows you to ensure the knowledge you have survives and impart it to another eager young mind. It’s difficult, but it’s worth it. Right?”

Junior smiled to himself. He’d had many teachers over his life. His mother taught him kindness. His father taught him strength. Kong had taught him to fight. And another good king had taught him control. He was grateful for everything he’d learned over his life and everyone who had ever taught him. And now he had gotten to experience what they had felt with him. He leaned into Luna’s shoulder as the Lunar Princess smiled to herself.

“Yeah.” Junior said, “It’s a wonderful feeling.”

A Tale of Three Kings ©
The Bridge © and
Godzilla © Toho/Legendary
Kong © Universal/Legendary

Description
The four lessons that Junior learned from his teachers on what it means to be the King of the Monsters.

A Tale of Three KingsIn many ways, Skull Island was an arena. An arena that housed some of the biggest bouts in the history of Terra. Like the one going on right now. In one corner, ten young Skull Crawlers, two Vastatosaurus rexes, one giant snake, and two Alpha Skull Crawlers. In the other corner, Skull Island’s king and protector, Kong. Kong flexed his fingers. While still not quite as big as some of Terra’s other heavy hitters, the King of Skull Island had grown quite a bit since the days he’d been training a certain young Godzillasaur. And while this definitely would seem challenging to almost any other opponent, in truth, this was a handicap match for anyone not named Kong.One of the V.rexes made the first move. It roared and lunged at the king before being easily caught in Kong’s iron grip. The giant snake slithered around and attempted to flank Kong as he held the large predator at bay. Once it had a significant perch, it too lunged forward, only for Kong to slap it out of the air mid jump and crumple to the ground. Three of the young Crawlers all hissed and tried to rush the king, thinking their superior numbers would give them an edge on the much larger opponent. However, they seemed to have forgotten that Kong was still holding the V.rex at bay. In a show of titanic strength, Kong lifted the rex into the air and slammed it down onto the young Crawlers, crushing them. One of the Alphas hissed at the other to strike from the sides as the two split up. Meanwhile, the other rex charged at the king from the front. A three way attack. Perfectly executed.Despite his large size, Kong was surprisingly light on his feet. And in an impressive display of agility, he avoided the Vastatosaurus’ charge before grabbing it by the tail. He tore the predator from the ground and swung it like a club, smashing one of the Alphas in the face. The other Alpha hesitated after seeing its compatriot get smacked down, which gave Kong ample time to smash the Vastatosaurus into it. Seeing their leaders so summarily defeated, the younger Crawlers decided to cut their losses and slither off. However, Kong wasn’t about to let them get away.Picking up a large rock, Kong threw it as hard as he could, catching three more Crawlers under its weight. Only four remained. And the shock of the impact had jostled them, allowing Kong to catch up. He grabbed two of them by the tails in each hand, and slammed them into the other two, killing all four. Meanwhile, the first Vastatosaurus, still alive but dazed, struggled to its feet. However, before it could fully recover, it once again felt Kong’s iron grip on its jaws. The creature struggled against Skull Island’s mightiest son, but it was in vain. With a mighty roar and a sickening crunch, Kong tore the Vastatosaurus’ jaws apart in a violent display of gore. Kong allowed the creature’s corpse to fall from his grasp before beating his chest and letting out a mighty roar. A warning to any challengers that Skull Island was under his protection.Once his roar was done, Kong let his arms drop to his sides. While the battle had been exciting, it had been a long time since any of the creatures of the island had posed a challenge to him. Despite knowing nothing would be there, Kong couldn’t help but look over his shoulder. Despite the fact that it had been almost twenty years, he still expected a small Godzillasaur to be watching his every move. However, he knew that Godzilla Junior wasn’t there. He was probably off fighting some sort of giant space dragon somewhere in the world. He knew his student would be fine. Right now though, he was hungry. While the fight hadn't been difficult, it still worked up an appetite. What Kong didn’t see as he turned to leave was another enemy hiding in the shadows. The third enemy snarled and licked its maw at Kong, who had let his guard down completely. Once it was certain Kong did not know it was there, it leapt from its hiding spot and reared its claws back. Kong heard its approach at the last moment and turned to face this new interloper. Knowing he wouldn’t have enough time to dodge the blow, Kong raised his arm to try and block it. The creature’s claws raked across Kong’s forearm, leaving a gash that, while not debilitating, was still painful.Kong snarled at his new opponent. Another Alpha Skull Crawler. But this one was different from the others. It had several distinctive red markings running along its body, and it was much larger than a normal Alpha. The Crawler hissed at Kong as the greatest of apes glared. Knowing that this injury would make things a bit tougher than usual, Kong scanned the area for something he could use until his eyes landed on a nearby ironwood. Kong ran towards the old tree and, in one smooth motion, uprooted it and stripped it of its branches. The king of Skull Island turned to face his opponent again, brandishing his makeshift club. Kong roared a challenge to the Crawler, which it was all too happy to answer. The Crawler rushed Kong, ready to take another swing at the mighty ape. Kong readied his club, daring the infernal beast to come closer. The Skull Crawler leapt into the air, hissing wildly.However, before either combatant could make contact, a blue and white blast of light consumed the large Alpha. Kong halted his swing as the light continued on until it hit a nearby rock face before dying out. Kong looked at the aftermath of the damage. All that was left of the Alpha was a smoldering, charred corpse. Kong was dumbfounded for a moment, before he put his club down. It seemed he had company. Normally, a blast of blue and white light meant that his former student had come to visit. However, this one was different. More like a flame than a beam. First thing’s first though, treating his wound, and getting some food. He knew this particular company wouldn’t mind waiting a bit while Kong caught some mire squid.An old friend had come to visit.========Twenty Minutes Later========With his wound dressed and his catch flung over his shoulder, Kong made his way down to the shore. There, waiting for him, was his old friend. While his friend bore some resemblance to his former student, there were several noticeable features that differed from Godzilla Junior. He was taller, bulkier, and more crocodilian looking than Godzilla Junior. His spines were also more jagged and less pointed. However, he’d known this old man since he was still a whelp. And he rarely came by. So he knew it was important.“Gojira!” Kong called, “You look like you’ve put on some weight.”Gojira turned to see Kong approaching.“I seem to recall you were still small the last time I visited your shores.” Gojira shot back.Kong let out an amused grunt.“Looks like you finally learned how to speak normally.”Gojira grunted in annoyance.“The tongue of the hatchlings is still odd to me.” Gojira grumbled, “But if it allows the youngling to understand me more easily, then I am willing to learn.”Kong took a seat beside his old friend, taking another bite of his squid. He offered some to Gojira.“I am full.” Gojira commented, “The old power keeps me nourished.”Kong nodded, not entirely sure what he meant, but at least he'd made the offer. “I take it that something happened?” Kong asked grimly, “You wouldn’t be here otherwise.”Gojira hung his head and let out a sigh from his nostrils.“The boy,” Gojira began using the nickname he’d given Godzilla Junior, “his scent has disappeared from the oceans.”“What?!” Kong shouted, “Disappeared? Does that mean he’s-”“He is not dead.” Gojira reassured, “If he were dead, I would still be able to smell him. For his scent to disappear completely should be impossible.”Kong looked at Gojira in confusion.“What does that even mean?” Kong asked, “That he’s just…..gone?”“It would seem that way.” Gojira said.Kong was perplexed. He knew Junior’s life was hard. He knew that there were times that he had been brought to the brink of death. There were times where he was worried that the moth or one of his other allies would come to his island and tell him that Junior had fallen. But for him to just disappear was odd. But even if he was gone, the fact that Gojira, one of Terra’s best trackers was telling him that Junior was alive, wherever he was, was reassuring.“If he is alive,” Kong began, “then I’m not worried. He’s strong enough to handle whatever comes his way.”“I know.” Gojira said, “I have seen it in how he fights. His movements, the way he acts, the way he scans a battlefield for any advantage he can find. He learned to fight from you.”Kong snorted, taking another bite of his squid.“I forgot.” Kong grunted, “You went at it with him. I guess you’d know what he’s like.”“True.” Gojira began, “But I have also fought by his side.”Kong was just about to take another bite of his squid when he stopped himself.“What?” Kong asked, “He never told me about that.”“I suppose he would not.” Gojira said, “He seemed strange after the battle. But I did not wish to open old wounds, as it were.”Kong sat up straighter as Gojira turned to face him. The old king knew that his friend would want to know the tale. He shifted into a more comfortable position before turning his gaze towards the ocean.“It began many moons ago…..”========San Francisco BaySix Months Ago========Gojira was angry. And when the ancient king was angry, the last place anything wanted to be was in his way. He’d chosen to visit the gravesite of his fallen kin. The one the humans called “Adam.” However, when he had arrived, the bones were gone. Only the scent of something that did not belong was left in their place. Gojira had been tracking the scent for days, only missing the source by moments before it fled to another part of the globe. Now, he’d cornered it. It didn’t matter what this creature was, he would kill it for desecrating his nephew’s remains.Gojira broke the surface of the bay as he began a slow trek into the city. While the arrival of any Kaiju usually meant loud noises like screaming, sirens, and evacuations, this time, it was almost deathly silent. Gojira was normally one who enjoyed silence, but for what was supposed to be a quiet city, he found it unnerving. Still, the scent was close and he would not get anywhere by standing in the bay. The old king waded through the water before finally making landfall near the harbor. Gojira was not a particularly stealthy individual, so trying to keep a low profile was not an option as he searched the city, taking special care not to damage any human nests. While Gojira bore no strong feelings towards the denizens of this world, he bore no ill-will to the ones who chose not to make him their enemy.As Gojira continued his trek through the human nests, the scent grew stronger and more repugnant. That was when he saw it. A creature hunched over one of the human machines that created energy similar to the old power. Gojira could sense the energy depleting as the creature loomed over the machine. It was large, quite possibly even larger than Gojira himself. Its skin resembled old tree bark and was a dark shade of green that could almost pass for black. Much like Gojira, it had several rows of spines running down its back. But this creature’s spines were comparatively small. It was bulky, but almost unnaturally so. While its legs and tail were in proportion, its arms were unnaturally large. But worst of all, was its face. Almost completely expressionless. Its mouth, rather than any lips, merely resembled jagged teeth. All capped off by a pair of cold, uncaring blue eyes. Gojira couldn’t stand the sight of this abomination. Whatever it was, it had desecrated the grave of his kin, bastardized his form, and now was upsetting the balance that he and others worked so hard to maintain.“Return my kin’s remains and leave now.” Gojira commanded.The creature turned and looked at Gojira impassively. It had heard him. But its expressionless face made it impossible to know if it understood him. “Must I repeat myself?” Gojira asked angrily, “Return my kin’s remains and leave now!”The creature seemed to perk up at this. Gojira stood and observed it as it continued to stare impassively. It had definitely understood him that time. However, rather than comply with the old king’s demands, the creature looked down at its feet. Gojira was initially confused at its actions. However, confusion eventually led to anger as the creature picked up a large human transport and threw it at Gojira. The former alpha predator snarled as he slapped it away. Realizing words were wasted on this abomination, Gojira slapped his tail against the ground before letting loose the loudest roar he possibly could. A challenge to the monstrosity standing before him. The creature stared impassively again before it began to lean forward slowly. Each movement of its body seemed to make some sort of terrible creaking sound. Like old wood breaking apart. It finally began to slowly open its jaws and let out a roar that, while not dissimilar from the ones similar to Gojira made, sounded more garbled. Whatever this creature was, it was wrong in every possible way. And Gojira would be the one to correct this mistake.Gojira rushed his opponent with a level of speed that many would not have expected from a creature his size. The abomination merely stood impassively as the old king slammed into it with a powerful shoulder charge. The creature fell to the ground, creaking as its body met the pavement. Gojira, not wanting his opponent to have any breathing room, pressed his assault, grabbing the opponent by the scruff of its neck and dragging it up. Gojira opened his maw before clamping it down on the beast’s shoulder. However, instead of the taste of muscle and sinew, Gojira’s teeth met with the taste of tree bark. The old king was perplexed at exactly what this abomination was. He could sense the bones of his nephew within it. But it didn’t seem to have true musculature. However, Gojira’s distraction proved to be detrimental as the abomination raised a fist and drove it into the old king’s cheek with a powerful punch. Gojira let go of his opponent’s shoulder and let out a painful groan.The old king stumbled back, but managed to keep himself upright. The abomination began to stomp its way towards Gojira, another punch in the waiting. However, Gojira saw it coming a mile away and easily avoided it. Gojira returned the favor with a powerful claw swipe, catching the creature across the muzzle. The creature swung again, but Gojira easily avoided the punch. While it was powerful, it had no technique. And, while he wasn’t quite as good as he used to be, Gojira had seen more battles than most things on this planet. He could predict its movements easily. The real problem was trying to find a soft spot. The abomination fell back again as Gojira began trying every vulnerable spot he could think of. Stomach, neck, eyes, he tried all of them. But he couldn’t seem to make much of a dent in this creature’s armor. Gojira finally started to get somewhere when he struck the chest. While it wasn’t noticeable at first, Gojira did see that his claw had made deeper wounds in the chest than any of the other spots he’d tried. Whatever this abomination was, it had clearly put itself together in a hurry when it desecrated Adam’s remains. All Gojira had to do was keep digging into the chest and this fight would be over.Gojira slammed his tail into the abomination’s face, causing it to stumble back. Gojira lurched forward and dug his claws into the creature’s chest.“You have no soul!” Gojira roared.Gojira began to pull at the abomination’s chest as it splintered and cracked. However, Gojira’s roar seemed to awaken something in the creature. A sort of familiarity. Its eyes seemed to change, going from blank and lifeless to bright and full of intelligence. The abomination roared back. However, instead of unnatural noises that amounted to nothing like the previous roar, it seemed to answer Gojira’s roar.“That is why I have no fear!”Gojira’s assault paused as he took in what he had just heard. Had this thing just spoken? That pause was all it needed to drive another punch into Gojira’s cheek. The old king was stunned for a moment, but managed to regain his footing in time to avoid the second punch. Gojira threw another claw swipe, catching the creature in the shoulder before throwing all his weight behind another shoulder charge. The creature stumbled, but was not knocked off its feet like the previous time. The creature spun on its feet, throwing its tail in a devastating tail whip that slammed into Gojira’s chest. The old king stumbled back again, crashing through one of the human nests he took so many pains to avoid, before falling to the ground. Gojira raised his head up to catch a glimpse at his opponent.Damn it all! Gojira thought as he rose back to his full height, This abomination is learning as it fights!The old king rushed forward again as the creature ran to meet him. Gojira ducked under another punch and bore his teeth, ready to bite down on this thing’s arm. However, he did not notice the creature’s other arm before it slammed directly into his chin. Blood and saliva flew from the old king’s mouth as his body met the ground again. But the creature wasn’t done yet. It grabbed Gojira’s tail and began to lift him up. The creature spun on its heel, building momentum as it spun and as Gojira roared and attempted to free himself in some way. However, the old king could not figure out a way to free himself before the creature released him from its grasp, sending him flying. Gojira let out a pained roar as he crashed headfirst into another human nest. Gojira was hurt. But his pride refused to let him fall before this creature. He tried to get up again, but his arms gave out from under him. He placed his arms down again in another attempt to rise back up. But before he could, he felt something grab onto the back of his head. The abomination dragged the old king as he tried in vain to free himself from its iron grip. The creature dragged the old king to another human nest before it raised its opponent back up. It slammed Gojira’s face into the nest as it crumbled from the impact. The abomination moved to another nest and slammed the old king into it again. Then found another one and repeated the process. Again and again, Gojira’s face met steel and concrete. Once again unable to free himself, Gojira was forced to just endure hit after hit until the creature finally let up. It callously tossed the old king aside as he fell to the ground. The old king coughed up more blood and saliva as he finally regained his senses. He planted his arms under himself again and pushed himself back up. He turned his head towards where his opponent had been to see it seemingly chuckling. Gojira rose back to his full height and roared at the abomination in defiance. He slammed his tail into the pavement as the spines near the tip of his tail began to flicker with a neon blue light. A loud whirring sound filled the air as the spines along his back began to light up in sequence. The creature studied its opponent before its own spines began to crackle with energy. Instead of lighting up in sequence however, the creature’s spines lit up all at once with a crackling energy surrounding them. Gojira’s eyes narrowed. If this would be a battle of wills, then so be it.Gojira threw his maw open and let the old power fly in a fiery blast. At the same time, the creature opened its maw as well and released its own powerful blast of energy. Their respective attacks smashed into each other as a massive amount of energy built up between them. Neither combatant was willing to give an inch as the two of them continued to pour more and more power forward. Gojira’s eyes began to water and blood began to pool in them. While the old power was his trump card that he used to overpower things that couldn’t be defeated with physical might, it had one small caveat: Gojira needed to be able to breathe in order to use it. And currently, all his breath had been given to this current blast. Gojira struggled against the creature’s assault as he tried to pour more power than he really had into his attack.The creature, meanwhile, seemed to be drawing from a bottomless reservoir of power as its attack began to overpower Gojira’s. Gojira’s eyes went bloodshot as his attack was pushed back. Out of breath and nearly out of power, Gojira’s attack fizzled out as the creature’s attack smashed into him. A massive gash was carved into Gojira’s chest as he fell to the ground once again. A weak roar left his throat as the old king tried to show any form of defiance he could. The abomination stomped over to its fallen opponent and grabbed him by the jaw. It pulled Gojira’s jaws apart as the old king struggled as best he could. But he was too wounded and too tired to put up anything more than a token resistance. The creature’s spines crackled to life again as it kept Gojira’s jaws open. The old king knew what was coming. He had used this attack before. Firing the old power down an opponent’s throat to cook them from the inside out. Simple, but effective. And the ultimate irony that it would be used to kill him. The monstrosity seemed to laugh as it finished charging the killing blow. As he felt fear for the first time since times immemorial, Gojira closed his eyes as the creature fired its attack.Before it could do the deed, however, a loud, thunderous blow that would have felled a lesser opponent, slammed into the monstrosity, causing its attack to fire off in a random direction. The blow also caused it to release its grip on Gojira as the old king fell to the ground again. The monstrosity was sent flying and crashed into the ground as Gojira’s unfocused vision tried to make out his savior. It cut a very similar silhouette to himself, but was far less bulky and more evenly built. It had charcoal grey scales and large, white spines that briefly flickered blue before it exhaled. However, instead of a normal blast of energy, a calming blue cloud was released and washed over Gojira’s body. As the energy washed over him, Gojira felt his strength return. His savior repeated the procedure two more times, allowing the gash in Gojira’s chest to finally close. It wasn’t enough to fully restore his strength, but it was enough to revitalize and heal the wounded king. His vision finally began to refocus, as his savior extended a helping hand to the old king. In a voice that was gruff, but had an underlying kindness to it, his savior finally spoke.“You’re not dying here today, old timer.” Godzilla Junior commanded.Gojira lifted his hand and grabbed Junior’s. The younger king pulled his predecessor to his feet. “What are you doing here boy?” Gojira asked.“You’re not the only one who could tell something was wrong.” Junior said.The two kings watched as the creature stood back up. It’s body, creaking like a falling tree.“This is not your fight boy.” Gojira said, “This abomination desecrated the remains of my kin. I must be the one to destroy it.”Godzilla Junior looked at his elder incredulously.“You can’t beat this thing alone.” Junior countered, “Plus, if I remember right, you named me the new alpha, didn’t you?”Gojira turned to the young whelp.“So, by your code,” Junior said, “As the alpha, it’s my responsibility to take care of threats like this thing, right?”Gojira’s eyes widened. While a whelp talking back to him would normally make him angry, he could not help but feel respect swell up within him. The boy might have been a whelp in his eyes, but being able to turn his own logic against him was a noteworthy feat. The two kings turned to face their opponent. The monstrosity had risen back to its feet before it began to size up the newcomer.“Add as many weaklings as you wish.” it said dismissively, “You will all die the same way!”Godzilla Junior growled at the creature angrily, which Gojira took note of. While he knew it wasn’t his business, Gojira couldn’t help but notice a look of recognition in Junior’s eyes. Like he seemed to know what this thing was. But right now, that wasn’t important. What was important was that this thing needed to die. The creature let out another distorted roar, a challenge to the two kings. In response to the challenge, Godzilla Junior and Gojira let loose their own roars. A challenge to the beast to “bring it on,” as it were. All three combatants charged, ready for the final round to begin.The creature threw a powerful left hook at Godzilla Junior. However, despite the power behind the punch, Junior was a much more agile target than Gojira, and ducked under it. The creature’s pupils dilated in surprise as Junior drove a vicious right uppercut into its chin. The creature stumbled back as Gojira sprung into action and slammed into it with a powerful shoulder charge. The creature let out a pained groan as it slammed into the ground with a massive thud.“The chest!” Gojira shouted, “I weakened it earlier! Tear it open boy!”Godzilla Junior nodded and charged towards the prone abomination. With no hesitation, he dug his claws into the creature’s chest and began to tear at it. The sound of splintering wood filled the air as the gash that Gojira had made began to widen. However, before Junior could tear its chest open completely, a powerful right cross slammed into his cheek, sending the younger king to the ground. The creature got to its feet as Gojira leapt into action. It grabbed a hold of the abomination’s left arm as it prepared to pounce on Junior again. The abomination let out a surprised screech as the old king yanked it back. It attempted to use its free arm to knock the old king off it, only to feel it be seized as well. It turned to see a recovered Godzilla Junior holding its right arm still.“On three!” Junior shouted, “One!”“Two!” Gojira replied.“Three!” they both shouted.The two kings both heaved with all their might, the abomination being dragged along for the ride. Its face was driven into the pavement and dragged along the ground as it was unable to do anything to resist. Once it stopped however, it was swiftly yanked back by Godzilla Junior yanking on its tail. With all the strength he could muster, the young king heaved the creature up and over his shoulder before slamming it back first into the ground. Following Junior’s suplex, Gojira’s plates began to light up as a low whirring sound permeated through the air. The whirring grew faster and louder as the light began to travel up Gojira’s back. As it reached a fever pitch, Gojira released another blast of the old power from his maw. The blast hit the abomination square in the chest and sent it skittering back. Gojira’s eyes widened. Once he was certain the creature had been blasted back enough, he canceled out his attack.“Incredible.” Gojira said.“Looks like our powers mix pretty well.” Junior said as he went to the old king’s side.“Indeed.” Gojira said flatly, “The power you wield is similar to the old power.”“We’ll figure that out later.” Junior shot back, “Right now, we’ve got a fight to win.”Junior and Gojira turned to face the creature again as it rose to its feet. The two kings glanced at each other in acknowledgement before rushing the beast again. Gojira raised his right hand to take a swipe at it. But before it could connect, the beast ducked out of the way. Junior followed up with a powerful punch, but the creature avoided it as well. It drove its fist into Gojira’s chest, causing the old king to let out a pained grunt. Next, it slammed a powerful left hook into Junior’s cheek, forcing him to stumble back. It followed up with a swipe of its tail, catching both kings in the chest and knocking them back. The two kings fell to the ground as the beast grabbed Gojira by the throat.It dragged the old king across the ground as it charged forward. It drove Gojira’s head through another human nest as he let out a pained roar. Junior struggled to his feet as he watched his ally be pummeled into submission. “What the Daiei’s going on?” Junior said to himself, “We had this thing on the ropes.”It seemed as though brute force alone wasn’t going to cut it. Realizing this, Junior scanned the environment for something he could use. His eyes landed on a broken piece of a spire. It was long, made of metal, and pointed at the tip. Junior climbed to his feet and picked it up. He hoped it would be enough.Gojira winced as another uppercut was driven into his chin. The old king fell back to the ground as the creature began to stalk forward. However, before it could reach him, Godzilla Junior appeared from behind it with his improvised weapon. In a surprising display of agility for one his size, he leapt off the ground and drove the spire into the abomination’s neck. It stumbled forward as the sound of shattering wood filled the air. It didn’t react in pain like most living things would, but it had been taken by surprise. Junior hung on as tight as he could as the creature tried to throw him off. Gojira raised his head, seeing his ally in his current predicament. He knew that they needed to finish this thing off before it learned any more about how they fought. It was time for a bit of a gamble. He hadn’t used this in a long time, but it might be just what they needed.Gojira propped himself up with his hands. To the untrained eye, it might seem like the old king was attempting to get back on his feet. However, Gojira's hands never left the ground. He snarled and lashed his tail back and forth as his spines flickered. It was time to get primal. The old king lurched forward on all fours in a display of speed that betrayed his massive size. Junior saw his ally rushing forward and, without a second thought, pushed off the abomination. Gojira turned his head away from the beast at the last moment and drove his shoulder into its knee. It fell to the ground as Gojira righted himself. As it attempted to get up, the old king slapped it back down with his tail and gave chase. Gojira pushed off the ground with his arms, and pounced on the creature’s chest. He viciously clawed at it, shredding through its hide like it was nothing. The old king dug deeper and deeper, until finally, he made it through. His eyes went wide as he saw it. It was…..difficult to describe. Most creatures had a beating heart protected by a ribcage in their chests. But this thing didn’t seem have any organs except one. It looked like some kind of fungal growth attached to what had been Adam's shattered ribcage. It convulsed and shuddered as Gojira stared it down. Whatever this creature was, it shouldn’t exist. Gojira raised one of his hands and began to reach for the organ. It was time to end this.However, before he could grasp it, the creature sprang back to life and drove a fist into Gojira’s cheek. It grabbed the old king by the throat and heaved him up. Godzilla Junior rushed forward, only for the abomination to turn towards him and throw Gojira at the young king. The two of them slammed into each other and fell to the ground in a heap.“I cannot say I did not find you the least bit entertaining,” the abomination said with a somewhat mocking demeanor, "But your continued existence has begun to bore me. Farewell."The creature’s spines began to flicker to life, as an electric blue glow began to overtake them. Godzilla Junior climbed to his feet and faced the creature. His own spines began to light up as well, flickering to life much more quickly than Gojira’s. His eyes glowed with a vibrant blue light as he opened his maw and let loose a powerful blast of radioactive plasma. The creature let his own blast fly as the two blasts slammed into each other. A massive amount of energy was formed as the blasts struggled against one another. Godzilla Junior poured more and more power into his attack, hoping that it would be enough. It seemed to be working as Junior’s blast slowly began to push back his opponent’s. Little by little, Junior’s attack crept towards the abomination. However, just as the battle seemed to be decided, the creature’s organ glowed with a vibrant blue. And it seemed to have some sort of effect on its attack, as it began to grow more powerful. The blasts were pushed back towards Junior as he attempted to pump more energy into his own.Gojira raised his head and took in the struggle before him. Godzilla Junior was doing everything he could to try and turn the tides. But it wasn’t enough. Gojira saw a number of scars beginning to appear across his successor’s hide. He didn’t fully grasp the boy’s powers, but he could tell they were swiftly running out. If he didn’t do something soon, they would both perish. At that moment however, he realized something. Godzilla Junior’s energy had revitalized him, but it had also strengthened his final attack. It seemed that the boy’s power synergized well with his own. What if the opposite was true?Gojira’s spines lit up once more, his eyes glowing bright blue along with them. The boy had saved his life. It was time to return the favor. The old king inhaled deeply before letting a blast from the old power fly from his maw. However, instead of aiming for their foe, he aimed the blast at Godzilla Junior’s spines. The blast struck and, almost instantly, his spines seemed to absorb the energy Gojira had given him. The scars that danced across Junior’s hide began to fade and his eyes began to glow brighter and brighter. Godzilla Junior leaned back, before lurching back forward again, as the intensity of his blast seemed to double. Almost instantly, the creature’s attack was pushed back. The combined energy of the blasts slammed directly into the creature’s face and flew off into the distance as it collapsed to the ground. Godzilla Junior and Gojira canceled their respective attacks and stared down their opponent.The creature had fallen once more. However, this time, the combined might of the two kings had ensured that its head had been blasted clean off. On any other creature, that would have been the end of it. However, the organ within its chest still seemed to convulse and shudder. Not entirely sure if this thing was still alive, but unwilling to take chances, Godzilla Junior stomped over to the fallen form of his opponent. He stared down at the organ as it continued to pulse. With zero hesitation, the King of the Monsters drove his hand into the creature’s chest cavity and tore the organ out. He held it in his hand for a brief moment before he crushed it, then pumping some nuclear power into his hand to torch what was left of the remains. Junior opened his hand as the charred remains of the organ were swept up in the wind, breaking apart into ash. His victory assured, Godzilla Junior let out a powerful roar. An assurance to some that the battle was over. A warning to others that this world was protected.Gojira climbed to his feet, shaking the dust and debris free from his body. Once he was certain it had all fallen off, he began to stomp towards Junior. Once he got within earshot, he heard the boy say something beneath his breath.“They’ll never see it.” he said, “They’ll never see it now.”“What was that boy?” Gojira asked.Remembering he wasn’t alone, Godzilla Junior turned to face the old king.“It’s nothing.” Junior said.Gojira could tell that was far from true. But he also knew that the boy’s affairs were not his business. “It seems the balance has been restored for now.” Gojira said.“I guess.” Junior said, not fully understanding what the old timer meant.“Your help was,” Gojira paused, “appreciated. While I am the one who maintains the balance, I suppose I must learn that I am not alone in this world anymore.”“Well, I appreciate your help, too, old timer.” Junior said, “You know, we wouldn’t mind having you be a part of our group. The battles are only going to get tougher from here. We could use someone like you to help even the score.”Gojira paused to think things over. It was tempting. To have allies again. To once again know camaraderie and friendship. The boy was friends with Mosura’s kin as well. Perhaps seeing where his old friend’s lineage had gone would do him some good. However, there were other matters that weighed on him. The boy’s group was strong. But they could not be everywhere at once. There were things that they could not reach because they would be forced to battle one of those foul smelling beasts from that fire pit in the ocean, or one of those abominations that stank of his old nemesis.“It is a tempting offer.” Gojira began, “But I must refuse. My duty is to this world.”Godzilla Junior nodded, though it was clear he was disappointed in the old timer’s decision.“However,” Gojira began again, “Should you have need of me, you will know where I am.”Gojira looked at his successor one last time.“You are strong boy.” Gojira said, “Stronger than many. But great power like ours is a tool. It must be tempered by a strong mind, and a stronger heart.”Junior nodded. The old king may not have known, but that advice was something he'd needed to hear.“Keep your wits about you.” Gojira said, “And remember; I will be there should you have need of me. Until we meet again, boy.”With that, Gojira turned towards the sea. He did not look back at his successor, as he knew that he would be alright. His feet sunk back into the water, before he lurched into a forward position. His body sunk beneath the waves, leaving only his spines visible. Before long, they too sank, leaving the calm waters of the bay behind.========Six Months LaterSkull Island========Kong’s eyes went wide as Gojira finished his tale. The king of Skull Island knew his student had grown strong. But to earn praise from Gojira was no small feat. The two kings sat on the beach as the waves lapped against the shore. Before long however, Gojira stood to leave.“I will continue my search.” Gojira said, “I know he is important to you.”“Like I said, I’m not worried.” Kong shot back, “If you think he’s okay, then he is. It’s that simple.”Gojira snorted at Kong’s remark before turning to his old friend. He slowly extended his arm towards Kong in a gesture he’d seen among the hatchlings. Kong smirked at his old friend before gladly shaking his hand.“Until we meet again, old friend.” Gojira said.Gojira stomped back into the ocean before sinking beneath it completely. Much like Kong, he wasn’t worried about his successor. Wherever he was, Gojira knew that he was okay.========Six Weeks LaterCanterlot, Lunar Tower========Princess Luna waited intently as her guest for the night hogged her washroom. She had warned him not to let Chibi Moon near painting supplies, and the stains in his coat and mane were proof that she’d managed to get them anyway. The door to her washroom swung open as the still wet form of Godzilla Junior stepped out. With a towel draped over his head, he attempted to tousle himself dry.“I warned you, didn’t I?” Luna said dryly.“You did.” Junior replied, “I should have listened. Chibi and paint do not mix.”Luna chuckled as Junior finally managed to get himself dried off.“So, I can’t imagine you called me here for nothing.” Junior said, “Is something wrong Lulu?”“Well,” Luna said, a slight blush creeping into her complexion, “Do you want to watch the stars tonight? It’s just that it can be a little dull around here by myself and I-”“Lulu, you don’t have to make up excuses.” Junior said, “I’d love to.”Luna smiled. She opened the door to her balcony and led her companion outside. The Lunar Princess sat down on her haunches as the King of the Monsters joined her. The two of them raised their eyes to the heavens. The countless stars shined down on them like a million lanterns, and, despite the similarities to the night sky on Terra, Godzilla Junior couldn’t help but be in awe of it. Luna smiled at her companion, before turning her own gaze to her night sky.“Young Starlight’s lessons are going well.” Luna said, “Though I must say, being a teacher is quite challenging.”“Really?” Junior said, turning his gaze to Luna, “I would think you’d be a natural.”“Celestia is the better teacher.” Luna said, “But she’s been willing to help me whenever I ask.”Junior chuckled as he looked to the sky once more.“Teaching Chibi has been tough.” Junior said, “But honestly, teaching someone else is rewarding. Being able to pass on everything my teachers have given me is…..difficult to describe.”“It fills you with pride.” Luna finished for him, “Both in yourself, and your student. It allows you to ensure the knowledge you have survives and impart it to another eager young mind. It’s difficult, but it’s worth it. Right?”Junior smiled to himself. He’d had many teachers over his life. His mother taught him kindness. His father taught him strength. Kong had taught him to fight. And another good king had taught him control. He was grateful for everything he’d learned over his life and everyone who had ever taught him. And now he had gotten to experience what they had felt with him. He leaned into Luna’s shoulder as the Lunar Princess smiled to herself.“Yeah.” Junior said, “It’s a wonderful feeling.”

“Teaching Chibi has been tough.” Junior said, “But honestly, teaching someone else is rewarding. Being able to pass on everything my teachers have given me is…..difficult to describe.”

“It fills you with pride.” Luna finished for him, “Both in yourself, and your student. It allows you to ensure the knowledge you have survives and impart it to another eager young mind. It’s difficult, but it’s worth it. Right?”

Junior smiled to himself. He’d had many teachers over his life. His mother taught him kindness. His father taught him strength. Kong had taught him to fight. And another good king had taught him control. He was grateful for everything he’d learned over his life and everyone who had ever taught him. And now he had gotten to experience what they had felt with him. He leaned into Luna’s shoulder as the Lunar Princess smiled to herself.

“Yeah.” Junior said, “It’s a wonderful feeling.”

A Tale of Three Kings ©
The Bridge © and
Godzilla © Toho/Legendary
Kong © Universal/Legendary