ACT I [INT. / UNDERGROUND / LATE AFTERNOON]
Welp, they actually did it. Umeme, Radi, Terra, Friska, and Doc all managed to now bear witness to the elusive ziggurat. Domain of the Nightmare Maker. And it's all thanks to the help of a magical bubble. Go fig.
Friska: So this is what the ziggurat looks like.
Radi: Yep, just as brooding and edgy as I remembered.
Umeme: ... [first to notice] Hey, the bubble.
They see it floating down until it reaches the very bottom of the ziggurat's central stairway. Having fulfilled its delivery, the Voyager Bubble pops into thin air -- safely releasing the red velvet cake. Although, something worth noting is that there appears to be no recipients outside the temple. Or anyone for that matter.
Friska: Hm... No sign of any guards in the perimeter.
Terra: Assuming this place even needs guards. So how exactly are we sneaking in?
Doc: If the architecture matches that of a man-made ziggurat, there should be service entrances located on each side.
Friska: Alright, let's check 'em ou-
Terra: Wait, did the cake get noticed? Or us for that matter?
...
Radi: ... Hm. No teleport, no worrywart.
Umeme: Let's just hope it stays that way. C'mon.
The N-24 Hopper soon advances forward, going around to the left side of the ziggurat while still high above. Friska makes sure to go nice and steady, not wanting to draw any attention. And as for the red velvet down below, it soon gets surrounded in a green glow. No, not fire -- but a force that picks it up and moves it all the way over to the left side. Nice and steady.
Within a few precious minutes, the Revo-lutionists now find themselves near a myriad of legit service entrances. Alongside the red velvet cake, still under Terra's telekinetic tether. (She wouldn't dare touch such corrupt confections).
Friska: [has the Hopper currently parked behind a sizable rock formation, keeping their presence concealed] Okay, lil' guy. You know what ta' do.
After a nodded response, the rabbot activates two special features in terms of stealth. One is a thick padding of synthetic fur, sprouting solely from the soles of its feet. Second is a light refracting field that cloaks its entire body, making it completely invisible to the naked eye.
Radi: (lets out an impressed whistle)
Umeme: Outta sight, outta mind.
Friska: Not for us though. [takes out what appears to be a computer tablet of hers] We'll be able to see everything he sees. You guys ready for a sneak peek?
Radi: Forgot to grab popcorn, but I think I'll manage.
Without further ado, Friska briefly opens up the cockpit. Releasing the cloaked rabbot as it steadily treads into one of the many, many openings. After passing straight through like welcome air, it finds itself slinking down a long, dimly lit corridor. So far, so good. (So far at least).
The cautious machine looks around at the walls and ceiling -- all adorned with mural-like carvings. Said carvings are intricate, yet at the same time... primal. Imagery of demoniac beasts plague the whole passageway, thickening the atmosphere with a heavy foreboding. It's all quite a sight to behold. Not exactly a feast for the eyes, but more like a famine.
Revo-lutionists: [which they're getting right now via Friska's tablet]...
Terra: [sterns her face at the very sight]...
The rabbot soon reaches the end of the corridor, and yet still not a resident to be seen. Instead -- it finds some sort of ladder, leading all the way up to a circular... door? Maybe?
Rabbot: ...
Well, having no other way to go than back, the bot proceeds onward. And upward, climbing up to the top and getting a careful feel of the "door". With just a slight yet firm push, a crack of faint light can be seen emanating from the other side. After slowly opening it all the way, the rabbot soon realizes that it's not a door at all. It's a... manhole cover. In the middle of what appears to be a corner alleyway.
Radi: What the hell? He's... still inside the ziggurat, right?
Friska: I mean, yeah but- [hears something the rabbot hears]!
Footsteps. The rabbot quickly puts the manhole cover back in place, then backs up to the side to make way. For what exactly? Well, what else other than a Nightmare? An all too familiar one, in fact.
Radi, Umeme, & Terra: ...!!
Obliviously passing by is a Puppet Doll Nightmare, the very first Nightmare they fought back when the ziggurat took shape.
Radi: Never thought I'd see that ugly mug again.
Doc: [receiving update via neural link]! Status report from the rabbot. Despite multiple attempts upon entry, its internal Nightmare Radar cannot detect anything.
Umeme: Wait, seriously? Even when inside the damn thing?
Radi: Take a number dude -- you're not the only one callin' hacks.
Terra: If that's the case, least we can do is get a better view of the place.
In agreement, Doc relays a quick message to the rabbot -- to which it immediately obliges. It begins wall jumping from the two opposing buildings. Yes, buildings; Two among tons, in fact. And reaching the very top of one, the mechanical lagomorph gets an all-around look at them.
Building and skyscraper-esque structures of varying heights, needling up towards a heavily cloudy sky. Together, they make up a complete cityscape -- spanning for miles upon miles on end. A lot more miles than the ziggurat's exterior would have them believe. Yet the whole vibe is just as brooding and edgy, inside and out.
And what's a city without city folk? Peering down from above, the rabbot enhances its ocular lenses to get a good look at its inhabitants. All of whom are Puppet Doll Nightmares, casually walking around the place. To where exactly? Well, not sure if they have anywhere specific to be. They're not even going inside the buildings. Plus there're no cars, buses, bikes, subways, or etc. They're just... walking. Like millions of ants moving endlessly. So many millions.
Such a sight leaves the Revo-lutionists utterly speechless.
Umeme: An entire city inside a ziggurat? This rabbot isn't dreaming, is it?
Friska: At this point, that would make a lot more sense than this.
Radi: (annoyed sigh) And with no working radar, we're right back where we started. Didn't think finding the Nightmare Maker would be a bitch-&-a-half.
Terra: [thinking things through]... The highest.
Radi: The huh-est?
Terra: I've seen more than my fair share of civilizations. The tallest structure tends to be the most important.
Umeme: Hm. [looks around as thoroughly as the rabbot, until he points at something] Does that over there fit the bill?
Far eastward from the bot's position stands one such structure. Compared to the other neighboring skyscrapers, it certainly appears to take 1st place by just a few extra hundred meters.
Terra: I know it's a stretch, but it looks worth checking out. (to Friska) What's say you?
Friska: ... [nods to Doc]
Doc: [nods back, and relays some more info to the rabbot]
In affirmation, the imperceptible machine makes its way towards the tallest tower. It does so by hopping high and far from building to building, going completely unnoticed by the denizens below. In the span of several minutes, the rabbot's now seen (technically unseen) ricocheting from one neighboring skyscraper to another. Until it finally reaches the peak, standing on top the highest scrape in the cityscape. If this wasn't such a dreary place, the view would be no doubt breathtaking.
But enough sightseeing. The bot now sets its sights on a rooftop entrance, steadily approaching to open the door. And right when it does... it's about to-
Rabbot: ...!!
immediately halt from taking another step, as doing so would've meant a very, very long fall. No stairs, no rails, not even a semblance of light to make out what's inside. It's nothing but a pitch black abyss leading to who knows where. With the only hint being down.
Rabbot / Revos: ...
Radi: Well that's a lawsuit waitin' ta' happen.
Before any further response could be uttered, something strange occurs. (As if things weren't strange enough already). In its entirety, this very skyscraper becomes enveloped in a cylindrical field of purple energy. And in turn, so does the rabbot.
Radi: Ah crap!
Umeme: Did it get caught?!
Friska: I-I don't know, there aren't even any camer-
Just then, the whole team hears something the rabbot hears. No it's not footsteps -- far from it. It's a booming, bellowing sound, loud enough to be heard high in the... "sky".
Rabbot: [looking up through the transparent field]...
Revo-lutionists: ...?
Above the heavy clouds, in fact. But despite being obscured, its shadowy silhouette can be seen clear as day. It seems to resemble some sort of aircraft, albeit with a more avian-like appearance. And surprisingly enough, this craft is accompanied by a flock. A whole legion following from behind, as they loom over the city in a passing migration. However, just idly passing by isn't their only intent.
Instead, as the sky-high shadows soar over the city, something begins piercing out of the thick clouds. Multiple somethings; one by one, each aircraft drops a large, egg-shaped object from above.
Rabbot: ...!!! [Without hesitation, it quickly activates its jet thrusters to fly away. Only to be denied departure by the field]!!!
And as soon as the eggs make impact, their brief lives end not with a crack. But with a-
BOOM!!!!
An unwavering volley of explosions, spreading far and wide across any and all corners. Such catastrophe prompts the Puppet Doll Nightmares to run for dear life. It's every man for himself. Pushing past each other. Trampling over one another. One doll in particular can only take so much -- before becoming a husk of its former, shorter self. A shame, but a mercy by comparison.
The ones still alive, however, are left to suffer the very worst of it. Even with an obvious ticket out of here in the form of manhole covers, they just go completely ignored. Why? Well the answer's simple, really.
In this Genocide City, there's only one way out.
>> >> >> NOW LOADING...
ACT II [EXT? / CITY RUINS / CONTINUOUS]
The thunderous bellowing from above have long since passed, leaving behind only disaster in its wake below. What were once semblances of architecture have been reduced to ashes and ruin. And what were once puppets walking aimlessly now lay idle as just plain ash. (Well... maybe not entirely plain). However, only a single building remains standing -- the tallest of them all that's denied to fall. All thanks to its protective field, which soon dissipates after things have settled.
Regarding the lucky rabbot, it lands back down onto the rooftop. And upon peering down from above, it reveals the clear view of a devastating aftermath to the Revo-lutionists outside. Words cannot do them justice in describing what the hell just happened. What the actual hell...
Radi: Uh, guys? A whole buncha' Nightmares just got nuked. So... why wasn't that the least bit satisfying?
Umeme: (in agreement) Cuz chances are, the same thing just might happen out here.
Terra: That. Won't. Happen.
Having seen quite enough, the psychic jellyfish causes the cockpit to open up. She then exits out of the Hopper and begins walking towards a service entrance (same one the rabbot went in). Bringing the levitating red velvet with her.
Friska: Hold on, what're you-
Terra: Sticking to the plan. Your rabbot's played its part. Now's time to play ours. (off-screen) You boys coming?
Umeme & Radi: ...!
Radi: Ah hell yeah!
Umeme: [he and Radi exit as well] 'Bout time I'd stretch these legs.
Friska: Well, guess now's a better time than never. You three just be careful, okay?
Radi: Almost get killed, got it.
Friska: Wh-?! That's nowhere near what I j- Augh!
Radi: (letting loose a quick chuckle)
Umeme: Relax Friska, it's like you said. We play our cards right, this'll all be over in no time. (to Radi) Ready, dude?
Radi: Set, dude?
Charged up and ready ta' go, Umeme and Radi accompany Terra as they make their way inside the lion's den.
Or perhaps more accurately -- the lion eater's den.
...
Having successfully entered the ziggurat, the three are now seen speeding across its inane interior. Radi and Terra tenaciously take to the skies, all while Umeme parkours hardcore throughout the decimated terrain. In little time, they reach the last structure standing -- and head straight for the top. No elevator needed for the cheetah, much less stairs. He merely runs vertically up the skyscraper, stopping at the peak in a matter of seconds.
Umeme: [Radi and Terra land around the same time] Y'know I think Doc might've been way off on the whole "matching architecture".
Radi: A+ for originality, but a hard D- for hospitality. What's your take, Civilizations Expert?
Terra: [looking around the place]...
Umeme: Uh, Terra? Everything alright?
Terra: I've just now been asking myself that. This all seems... too easy.
Radi: What, getting inside the ziggurat? I'll admit, not the most grandiose entrance.
Terra: Well the last time I tried making my own, it teleported away. It was almost like it, [glances up at the gloomy sky] sensed my presence... And now all we had to do was walk inside without issue? Something just doesn't add up.
Umeme & Radi: [look at each other]...
Umeme: Y'know, you're better off leaving the math to Friska and Doc. If it weren't for them-
Radi: Ahem?!
Umeme: (reluctantly) And someone else I know, (normally) we probably wouldn't have made it this far.
Terra: I won't deny that, I have no right to. But... what if it's a trap?
Umeme: Consider your question answered -- this whole place is one big Nightmare death trap. I wouldn't exactly call it "picky".
Radi: Yeah, I think "pricky" is more like it. Besides, this is nothin' compared to our own trap. [Terra looks at the red velvet cake] That Nightmare Maker won't know what hit him.
Terra: ... This just might be our only chance, huh? ... [looks back to her two friends] Then let's make it a hit to remember.
Umeme & Radi: [grin in agreement]
Just then, the three Revos hear the sound of jet-propulsion, soon coming out the open rooftop door. Fortunately, it came from an artificially friendly face -- which unfolds itself into full view.
Radi: [he and the rest walk over to their little spy] Looks like someone's earned themself a promotion.
Terra: Agreed. You did excellent, lil' one.
Umeme: So how deep are we takin'?
Rabbot: [calculating]... [shrugs in uncertainty]
Umeme: That deep, huh? Alright, we'll take it from here. You can just head back to the Hopper.
Terra: And don't worry 'bout the exit, I cleared it out for you.
After giving a quick nod, the rabbot flies outta scene -- leaving the three to take center stage.
R,U,n'T: [staring down at the mawing abyss]...
Terra: [Turns to Umeme, then Radi -- each giving her a nod. She then looks back at the abyss]...
Then, much like the red velvet, Umeme's body begins floating in mid-air -- as it's coated head to tail with psychic energy. Courtesy of Terra as their personal safety net. And with that, four streaks of light (1 blue, 3 green) take a dive right into the pool of pitch black. Whatever dwells within this deepest of dark, rest assured that it's in for one bright day.
Meanwhile, the rocketing rabbot heads towards the same spot it emerged from. Lo and behold, it seems that the jellyfish really did pave a way outta here -- revealing the manhole cover amidst all the pushed-away rubble. Surprisingly, despite all those devastating detonations, both hole and cover appear to remain completely intact (same goes for the surrounding asphalt). Well regardless, the bunny-borg is now just a skip 'n a hop away from returning to its maste-
CRASH!!!
However, if that hop was just a teensy bit faster, it would've surely dodged something.
Friska & Doc: [see that the rabbot's POV cam just suddenly went to static]...!!
As well as survived.
The culprit responsible was a tall structure, having rose rapidly from rubble. A building. Followed by another. Then another. More and more sprout up like grass from the soil, standing erect at varying lengths. In the span of less than a minute, an entirely new city has been built over the ruins of its predecessor.
Oh, and no need to worry about cleanup duty. The clouds above have got that taken care of. They begin to produce large tendril-like constructs, slithering down towards the city. And upon getting close enough, they begin sucking up the debris with tremendous force. Every last bit of it.
Rabbot: [its convulsive, glitchy mess of a body included]...
This also includes the ashes of the Puppet Doll Nightmares, chock-full of remnant energy.
A meal fit for a ziggurat.
Although, it appears that all the pavement, manhole covers, and even sidewalks aren't part of the debris -- having come out completely unscathed. Nevertheless, after a thorough cleansing of the city, the satiated tendrils return back to the clouds -- eager to feast another day. And speaking of which, this place is gonna need a new batch of citizens.
That's where the tallest skyscraper comes in. With its front entrance opened wide, and with an indefinite flash of purple light, a new set of puppet dolls begin walking outside. And the more coming out, the less of a ghost town this place will be.
For now.
>> >> >> NOW LOADING...
ACT III [INT. / CENTRAL SCRAPER / CONTINUOUS]
Back in the building's abyss, the three Revos are still delving downwards to deeper depths. Far deeper (as well as wider) than that of the exterior. However, as they do so, they soon get a group text on their phones.
Umeme: [takes out his own to read it]! It's from Friska. Something bad happened to the rabbot, but they couldn't see what.
Radi: Seriously? Damn, hope the lil' guy's still kickin'.
Umeme: Well, it's not like we can turn back now and find out. (critically as he looks around) Or at least look out through a window somewhere.
Radi: [looks around as well] Yeah this place is in desperate need of... well, everything.
Terra: ... ..!!
The jellyfish immediately halts, prompting the surprised peregrine to do the same. But much like her, both he and the cheetah look down to see why. A faint glimmer of light.
R,U,n'T: ...
Terra: (to Radi) Proceed with caution.
Radi: [nods in response]
The trio goes further down, swiftly but steadily. And with each passing second, the light below grows brighter and brighter. Until eventually...
Terra: ... [slows down and stops, as well as Radi]
After a considerate length of time, they finally reach the bottom of the abyss. Which in actuality, appears to be a throne room. His throne room.
R,U,n'T: ...!!!
The three Revos are currently floating tens of meters above the place, completely undetected. They keep it that way by staying quiet as a mouse (bonus if it's a dead one). Doing so as they keenly stare down at the source of all Nightmares.
The Nightmare Maker.
Said Maker takes the shape of a jet black humanoid, standing (technically sitting) at a height of 8 ft. The top of his head is engulfed in a corrupt and sinister purple energy, the very reason for the Nightmares' existence. In regards to the rest of his head, his face appears to be lacking a feature or two. No eyes. No ears. No noes. The only thing there is just a mouth, with a sharp-toothy grin to go with it.
As for the rest of his body, the following include: Long cloaked arms, with both hands floating right off his sleeves. An equally cloaked lower body, but with seemingly no legs. An upper torso shaped like a crescent moon. And embedded on said moon is a single giant eye -- a rather familiar feature added to his brand new look.
And speaking of "looking", the Nightmare Maker appears to be staring at something. He's not looking down from atop his throne, nor is he looking up above him (thank god). Instead, he's just staring straight forward at... nothing. Nothing at all.
☠︎♓︎♌︎♓︎❒︎◆︎: [looking "elsewhere" actually]...
Meanwhile, way up above him...
Umeme: (via thoughts) So that's what the Nightmare Maker looks like... Wait, what's he even staring a-!!?
Radi: (same) Man, talk about the face only a mother could love. A blind o-!!?
Both Umeme and Radi gave a quick glance at Terra, only to get caught by surprise as they look back to see...
Terra: (one angry jellyfish)...!!!!!!!!!
Terra does her absolute damnedest to hold back her rage. Her hatred. All pointed and speared towards the beast that started it all. And now, after all this time, she has a means of finally putting an end to it.
With as much composure as she's willing to maintain, the jellyfish proceeds with Friska's plan. She begins slowly lowering the red velvet cake, down directly towards the unsuspecting Maker.
Umeme & Radi: [look only in anticipation at what's about to happen]...
Terra: ...
Within precious seconds, the cake now floats just a few feet above (and behind) the Nightmare Maker. And with little hesitation, Terra bears an intent to crush the cake with her psychic grip. But that very intent triggers the dessert's defense mechanism. A swirling green inferno that consumes the Maker in less than a second. Throne n' all.
Radi: Holy shit, it worked!!
Umeme: Wayda clutch it!
Terra: We're not done yet!
Terra telekinetically tugs Umeme (and Radi) over to her, ensuring they each keep a firm grip on her shoulders.
Terra: [dives straight down towards the flaming vortex] Time to finish this!
Umeme | Radi: Let's go! | Right on!
With both cheetah and peregrine at her side, the jellyfish enters the hellish maw of the... thin air?
R,U,n'T: [Terra comes to a screeching halt, with her and the other two all shocked by what they're now witnessing]!!!??
Not only has the green vortex disappeared, but it left the Nightmare Maker himself completely untouched. Both he and his throne remain in the exact same spot. But even more shocking than that...
☠︎♓︎♌︎♓︎❒︎◆︎: [partaking in a delicious slice of red velvet cake, enjoying one forkful after another]
R,U,n'T: ...!!!??
☠︎♓︎♌︎♓︎❒︎◆︎: [just now notices them]... (staticky) 🕈︎♋︎■︎⧫︎ ⬧︎□︎❍︎♏︎✍︎
Cutting outside of the skyscraper, more and more Puppet Doll Nightmares are shown to be exiting its front entrance. As of currently, almost a third of the city has been filled, with still more to come. However, they immediately stop at the sound / sight of something. That being a mighty blast of psychic energy, destroying the entire roof of the tower. And hurdling right outta said blast appears to be a familiar purple field. Only this time -- it's smaller and more spherical, with the very inside displaying a sort of gyroscopic stillness.
☠︎♓︎♌︎♓︎❒︎◆︎: [currently inside the field] (staticky) ☟︎❍︎📪︎ ♑︎◆︎♏︎⬧︎⬧︎ ■︎□︎⧫︎📬︎ [goes back to enjoying his cake]
Flying straight out from the top as well is Terra, who catches the force field via psychic clutch. Upon heading over to it, the livid jellyfish then tries to wring the Maker's neck for a clean snap. However, something from inside doesn't allow that to happen. Whatever it is, it's actively preventing her telekinesis from taking hold of him. Looks like she'll have to deal with the outside first.
And so, Terra tries to crush it open with immense force.
Terra: [grunting]...!!!
But the purple sphere proves highly resilient, with not a single crack in sight. This prompts her to stop and catch her bre-
Terra: [quickly notices something from down below]!!
Not planning to stand idly by and watch their creator's life threatened, the Puppet Doll Nightmares immediately take action. In near unison, their bodies begin to glow with predacious purple aura. And like the colony of ants they are, they all join together into one unified mass. It starts out all unsteady and wave-like -- but as soon as they finally get their bearings, rising from the sea of puppets is an enormous, serpentine organism. One comprised of many, many, oh-so many.
Said serpentine slithers its way upward using a nearby skyscraper, doing so with horrifying ease. And as soon as it reaches a good enough height, the conjoined colony lunges itself straight towards Terra.
Terra: [prepares to make a counter-attack, until...]!!
Two streaks of yellow and blue lightning barrel through the organism like cannon fire. Essentially cutting off the neck area and causing it to fall into the wave-like mass below. (Along with a significant amount of husk pieces). The two streaks stop at the top of a different scraper, one not too far from Terra's earshot.
Umeme: We'll hold off these mannequins! You find a way to break the Maker out of his shell!
After a quick yet thankful nod, the jellyfish takes both herself and the Maker to higher heights. Far above the scrapers' reach, but not so far as to pass through the ominous clouds. However, such drastic change in altitude does not deter the Puppet Doll Colony. It now begins to sprout multiple hand-like formations, each one heading nowhere but up. The cheetah and peregrine take note of that from up top the roof top.
Umeme: So, this the "Epic Final Showdown" you had in mind?
Radi: Mmm -- a lot more grunts than I'd like, but beggars can't be choosers. [body begins surging with electricity all throughout] Bet I can make a mess of the most, though.
Umeme: [same] Try keeping count this time, and you just might.
Aaand they're off! Radi takes to the air once more, all while Umeme takes to the buildings -- running on / ricocheting from one to another. Before the handmade hands even have a chance of reaching Terra, the two speedsters bring their hopes crumbling down. Literally.
Left and right hooks from Radi. Left and right kicks from Umeme (capoeira-style). Each one packing more force than the last the faster they go. And even when some hands try to get their hands on them (okay -- last one for now, promise) it's basically like trying to catch a couple flies. Or more accurately, a couple bullets.
Having no further interruptions, the jellyfish can now resort to a different method of cracking this nut. Much different. With both hands raised high, she creates a single ball of psychic energy -- increasing its power and size to a grandiose scale. Like a jolly green dwarf star, it makes up for the dreary weather by shining down upon the city below. Although, that's the thing about stars. Sooner or later, they have a tendency to... collapse in on themselves.
And that's exactly what the esper has in mind. She begins to condense the giant ball, bringing it down to a smaller and smaller size. Such a task requires her utmost focus and energy.
Terra: (make that her uttermost)...!!!!
☠︎♓︎♌︎♓︎❒︎◆︎: [halfway done with his cake, he stops and looks down at the manic mosh pit taking place]...
Ah, such frenzy. Such madness. Made all the more maddening thanks to that cat and bird. Blasting through the colony's numbers with relentless velocity, not stopping for even a second. It's as if the whole surrounding city is just one big game of pinball. And those two balls are pining for the highest score.
But the Puppet Dolls don't relent either. Where one hand falls, two more takes its place akin to a multi-headed hydra. And where hundreds of dolls drop dead, hundreds more appear fresh out the oven. And by "oven"...
Umeme: [midst all his blitzing about, he soon sees where their unending numbers are coming from]!!
That being the front entrance of the Central Scraper, pouring out more and more puppets by the passing seconds.
Umeme: (via thoughts) Hold on. How are more being made if the Nightmare Maker's up- [quickly dodges an incoming hand]!! (via thoughts) Okay -- this first, ask later!
Whatever the case, 3 million+ is a crowd. And Umeme intends to stop said crowd at its source, letting Radi take the lead for now. As he continues to avoid the wrath of the masses, his accelerant acrobatics lead him straight towards the tower. And once within close proximity, the cheetah unleashes a blast of lightning right at its base foundation.
However, despite decimating a hefty heap a' puppets, the Central Scraper is protected once more thanks to its returning force field. Even the roof has been rebuilt (well, more so regenerated) good as new.
Umeme: [lands on a rooftop and face palms] Ugh, perfect.
But he doesn't stay a sitting duck for too long, as the merciless mob stops at nothing to try and eradicate this vermin. However, it's during this time that Umeme notices something about the secured scraper. The amount of puppets being pumped out from it has come to a complete halt, given that there's little to no "out" for them to go.
Umeme: Ah, perfect.
With hella haste, the spotted speed demon makes his way towards the very top of the field. And before it has the chance to disappear again, Umeme takes that chance away. By delivering a continuous discharge of electricity, arcing throughout like restless claws. Not only does this keep the force field up n' running, but it also keeps the colony's numbers from growing any further. Something that a few hands soon become alerted to.
This prompts them to advance towards the pestering spark, and put its lights out for good. But the cheetah's endless emission makes him about as touchable as a toaster in a bathtub. Such an attempt doesn't bode well for the grabby hands, shedding nothing but husk pieces left and right.
Umeme: [still emitting] Sorry fellas, but you'll have to try a lot harder than-
Before he can finish, he sees two distant hands preparing to do just that. They begin rushing towards each other like opposing tsunamis. And once they finally meet, their collision takes the obvious form of a high-five. A high-five that creates a cataclysmic supersonic shockwave, shattering hundreds of thousands of windows from the surrounding buildings.
Fortunately for the Central Scraper, it still has its sturdy field to shield it. And unfortunately for Umeme, he's sent flying hundreds of feet away -- now seconds away from falling into a sea of PDs. But un-unfortunately, he's caught just at the nick of time thanks to Radi.
Umeme: [realizes he's still alive]...!!! (lets out a strong sigh of relief)!!
Radi: [maneuvering past the many hands] You're welcome! And I'm pretty sure you're also losing!
Umeme: Won't be a winner anytime soon with more dolls out to play!
Both cheetah and peregrine catch a glimpse of the tower's force field dissipating once again. And now it's free to unleash more and more Puppet Dolls out from inside.
Radi: Man, talk about a quick refill!
Umeme: Oh yeah?! How's about we show 'em what "quick" really is?!
Radi: ...! Say less!
The raptor rockets off to one of many unoccupied sections of the city, getting himself and the cheetah far away from the malicious mass. Soon aware that they've been left to their own volition, the Puppet Dolls can finally resume their pillaring ascent towards Terra. And with such ever-growing numbers, it's only a matter of time before...
Wait a minute...
Things just got windy.
Very windy.
A few Dolls take notice of that, with "a few" quickly turning to "a lot of". The hand-shaped structures soon cease their ascent at the sight of something far off west. A massive, lumbering tornado of epic proportions, moving straight towards the colony. Another machination of the ziggurat, perhaps? Well -- judging by leagues of yellow n' blue lightning emanating throughout, far from it.
The whirlwind rages heavily throughout the city, leaving little to nothing behind akin to a giant vacuum cleaner. And soon enough, its current populous is in for the cleansing of a literal lifetime. Hundreds upon thousands of Puppet Dolls get blown away and sucked into the cyclone, causing the erected limbs to shrink further and further down. This continues until the tornado reaches a specific stopping point. Having the Central Scraper right inside its very center.
And though the tower is currently protected from the harshest of elements, the same can't quite be said for the Puppet Doll Nightmares. With no more being sent out, the rest are all left at the mercy of this voracious, volt-ridden vortex. And the two creators of said vortex speed away from it afterward; Only this time, it doesn't appear to be going away anytime soon. Gaining a far enough distance from its powerful pull, they stop on top a building and take a good look at what they've done.
Radi: (completely winded, but has just enough to let out an impressed whistle)
Umeme: (just as exhausted as him) You said it.
Radi: (breathing heavily) So how long... d'ya think that twister will... y'know, keep it twisted?
Umeme: (same) Well... Hopefully long enough for Terra to-
Just then, a blinding flash of green light can be seen (or unseen) high above the city. After averting their gaze for just a moment, Umeme and Rad look up to see Terra. Her hands appear to be clasped firmly together -- but upon opening up, they unveil a new surprise for the Nightmare Maker. What was once a gigantic ball of psychic energy, has now been reduced to what can only be described as a black hole.
The black hole is miniature, about as big as a golf ball. Its accretion disk takes on a more greenish color, as opposed to the standard orange-red. Despite the unique appearance, its distortion of the space around it functions just like any other. Though regarding its gravitational pull, that's currently kept on a tight leash. Her leash.
Terra: [Tries to facade her fatigue, as she wipes away some blood dripping from her nose. Blue blood]...
☠︎♓︎♌︎♓︎❒︎◆︎: ... [gestures to her to continue, interested to see what comes next]
Hating to keep him waiting (nah, just hating him in general) the jellyfish moves her mini black hole over to the Maker. She then activates the raw power of its inescapable pull. However, she focuses said pull solely on the spherical field keeping him safe. Hm, although -- calling it "spherical" wouldn't be the most accurate seconds later.
Akin to a wad of gum, it stretches to great lengths as it's dragged towards her hole. In little time, the force field starts to get consumed into the anomalous abyss. The Nightmare Maker included.
☠︎♓︎♌︎♓︎❒︎◆︎: [maintains a amused smile, even when being sucked in like spaghetti]
And just like that -- poof. Gone without the slightest trace. The ordeal of a deed is done. Or at least, halfway done.
Terra: ... (catches a much needed breather)!!!
Despite it taking a helluva lot outta her, Terra manages to keep hold of the hole. Amidst this, she looks down and spots Umeme and Radi. With the cheetah being once again carried, the two make their way straight up to her.
Umeme: Terra, you okay?
Terra: (worn out, actually) Of course... Can't thank you enough for... [gives a glance to the still twisted twister] keeping those Nightmares busy... I hope it wasn't too much trouble.
Radi: Uh, if by "trouble" you mean "fun", then sorry to disappoint. (chuckles)
Umeme: [getting a better look at the mini black hole she made]... So he's really inside there, huh? Never knew you could do that.
Radi: Yeah since when could you do that? Could've came in pretty handy a while back, just sayin'.
Terra: (still plagued with fatigue,) The first time I made this was... many ages back. Hadn't made another since, and for good reason... (but tries to keep it at bay for now) Listen closely you two. What I'm about to do next will end this once and for all. But first we need to g-
Before she has the chance to finish, something suddenly gets spat out from the clouds at startling speeds. Hitting Terra right in the back of her head.
Terra: ... [psychic aura instantly fades away]...
With no further word muttered, her motionless body begins plummeting down from above. Along with the detached head of a rabbot.
Umeme & Radi: Terra!!
The peregrine quickly stoops down and catches Terra, now carrying both her and Umeme.
Umeme: Terra?!... [tries shaking her for a response] Terra, c'mon -- wake up!
Other than still breathing, she gives them zip from the lip. But just then, the two hear the sound of a loud crack up above them. They look up to see that it came from the mini black hole. Except now, it's been freed from its leash.
But instead of sucking everything in however, it appears to be showing more and more cracks throughout its design. And the green accretion disk surrounding it is becoming brighter and brighter with every passing second. Every fleeting second.
Radi: (a tad concerned) Uhh, Umeme? Any chance this is that "good reason" Terra was talking about?
Umeme: (a lot concerned) Wanna stick around and find out?! [points direction] Or maybe head for that manhole seven blocks south?!
Tough choice, but Radi ultimately goes for the latter -- immediately diving down and reaching the manhole cover. Though it's not the same one they came out of, no time is wasted dwelling on that. Posthaste, Umeme and Radi get the unconscious Terra down inside first. Themselves soon after, with the cover quickly slammed shut.
And not a second too soon, as the black hole can hold its form no longer. So it instead takes the new form of a powerful, luminous explosion.
A supernova.
One spanning far and wide throughout the city. Nothing goes untouched by its light. Not the clouds. Not the ragdolling dolls. Not even the force field. And as for the Central Scraper inside, it enjoys the light show just a smidge longer before said field eventually breaks open.
The tallest of them all, and now the last to fall.
>> >> >> NOW LOADING...
ACT IIISS [INT. / SERVICE ENTRANCE CORRIDOR / CONTINUOUS]
Meanwhile, Umeme and Radi (with Terra currently laid by the wall) continue looking up at the closed circular doorway. Still intact along with everything else here. Not a glimmer of light leaks through from the other side. Not even the slightest sound.
Umeme & Radi: ...?
Radi: Should we... check it out now?
Umeme: ...
The cheetah goes up first, slowly opening up the door/cover to see...
Umeme: ...!!!
Nothing.
No buildings nor clouds. No puppets nor nado. But most importantly, no Central Scraper. Other than a nigh-endless stretch of asphalt, concrete, and cast iron -- absolutely nothing.
Radi: [second to see, no ladder needed]...!!! Woah...
Umeme: She... She did it. We did it!
Radi: Ehh wasn't much of a "we" there, but nice of you to include me. [continues looking around the empty place]... So whaddwe do with the ziggurat? I mean, I don't wanna say "free real estate" but-
Umeme: Don't know and don't even think about it. [heads back down and walks over to Terra] First things first is we get Terra back to the Hopper. Tell the others what happened. [lifts her up] Mm, wonder how long she'll be out for?
Radi: [closing the cover as he heads down as well] Hmph, hopefully not as long as I wa- [just then, something quickly catches their attention in the distance]!!
A flash of purple light, illuminating past the service entrance leading outside. But as soon as the flash ceases, "outside" has shifted instantly into a brand new change of scenery. However -- before they can have time to process that change, a sudden, powerful rush of air lifts and pulls them off their feet. Except it's not the air's doing; something from outside is sucking it all out of the corridor like a straw. And despite Umeme and Radi's commendable struggle to hold on, all the three Revos can do now is be suck out alongside it.
By the end of their forceful exit from the service entrance, the pulling finally stops. Now it's just... floating. Floating down until they land on a strange, rocky surface.
Umeme & Radi: ... [immediately realize where they are]!!!!!!
They'd no doubt gasp, if it weren't for the fact that they can't. So with both their breaths held tightly -- and Umeme firmly covering Terra's mouth and nose -- the two prepare to blitz their way back inside the ziggurat ("inside" inside). However -- another blinding flash of light impedes their intent, and they open their eyes soon after to see no ziggurat. Only a breathtaking (in more ways than one) view of the planet they were on just moments ago.
Planet Immobi, seen from 238,855 miles away on none other than the moon. And its dark side, no less.
If the ziggurat could speak just once, it would most likely have said "goodbye". Either that or "fuck you".
UNTIL NEXT TIME...