Here it is, after all the hard work, the summaries for the Street Fighter Zero and Street Fighter Zero 2: Sakura Ganbaru! mangas by Masahiko Nakahira, serialised in Gamest, published by Shinseisha. As everyone should know, Street Fighter Zero 3 took lots of storyline influence from both of these works. Feel free to distribute this summary as long as it stays complete in it's entirety. Below is the summary for the first volume of Street Fighter Zero 2: Sakura Ganbaru!. Note that the names are the Japanese names, and may differ from the actual name. Also, some typos and bad translations may occur, sorry if there are any. Finally, remember that this is a SUMMARY and not a manga translation, hence the looseness of the translations. Ikuzou! The first scene is narrated by Sakura, as the shot shows her typical Japanese suburb home. Hi, my name's Sakura Kasugano, 15 years old. I'm still studying, but I'm also a Street Fighter! Sakura turns off the alarm clock, which says 6.30 am. Time for training! and Sakura goes down the stairs . She then sees her brother playing Super Famicom (SNES). Sakura : Oka-san (Mom)! Tsukushi's still playing video games! Tsukushi : Keep quiet, I'm still far from the end. Tsukushi continues playing Final Fight (he's facing Sodom). Mom then enters the room, with a laundry basket. She asks Sakura about the commotion she's making, and how it might upset the neighbors. Oka-san : Still not finished yet? Don't give up, Tsukushi, I want to see you beat that game! Oka-san gives her son moral support, which makes Sakura puzzled. Tsukushi then asks why Sakura is wearing her sailor fuku (the school uniform) on a Sunday. Sakura : Because, as a Street Fighter, image is important. It will differentiate you from the rest. Anyway, you won't understand... She then asks permission from mom to go 'for a walk', while Tsukushi asks where is she headed. Mom asks her where she's going, but Sakura just says, "Ittekimasu (I'm going)!" and Mom reminds her to "Make sure to come home before lunch!" Sakura doesn't want her parents to know she's now a Street Fighter, because she'd be scolded (a picture of Ken Shamrock mat-wrestling is shown). Suddenly, Dan : Hei, kid, wait up! Dan Hibiki appears behind a lamp post. Dan : Last time, I faked my defeat, but this time, I'll show you who's the best for sure! Dan does his taunt while saying this. Sakura : Hmmph, it's you again. Don't try to make a fool of yourself. Dan is a Street Fighter from Hong Kong, he's here to exact revenge. Dan: This is my chance. Go! (Dan starts running). Sakura : Hey, that's unfair! Dan : In this game, everything's fair! Come on, race with me!. The result sees Sakura winning the race, again, as usual. Sakura : Kachi da (My victory!). Dan always try to race against me, and always lose. "Hey, I want to learn something new today!" Sakura said to Dan who is lying face-first on the grass. Dan asks Sakura if she had mastered last week's technique, which Sakura answers yes. Then he asks her to show it to him. "I've changed the name of the move," Sakura shyly admits, but Dan doesn't mind. Then, "Sho-ouken!" and Dan is knocked down by the attack. "Ahh, gomennasai (sorry)! I always repeat this mistake when doing it (a diagram shows the correct Shoryuken, and Sakura's Shoouken, while Shoryuken goes straight up, Shoouken takes a step forward before going up)". Sakura bows her head, repeatedly saying "I'm sorry!", but Dan is thinking that this girl wasn't joking when she said she wanted to Street Fight. "She has potential." "OK, I'll teach you a new move." Dan says as he thinks this is his chance to show off. "Yes, a new move. It's called Gadouken, and it can cause you harm if done incorrectly." Dan then starts to explain the fundamentals of the move, (something about air, which makes Sakura puzzled) which is actually related to Tai Chi, and Dan then readies his hand, a glow is seen and "Ureya!", he launches the Gadouken. However, Sakura managed to dodge the projectile unharmed. "Why did you dodge the move?" Dan asks her. "It's dangerous if it hits!" "Hmm, if I can learn this move, I won't be afraid of someone stronger than I am. I must study harder!" Sakura thought. Dan then makes an excuse to end the lesson ("That Shoouken really hurts"), and Sakura thanked him for teaching her the Gadouken. "Ja, mata ne (See you)!". Dan thought to himself, this girl is weird, usually girls her age would be dreaming of idols, branded goods or involved in puppy love, but she's into Street Fighting. "Maybe she'll be a champion. She did learn my moves quite fast. I'm worried she'd surpass me!" Sakura is jogging when she sees her friend beside her riding a Piaggio Vespa (think retro-style scooter), and tells Kei that she can't ride a scooter since she doesn't have a license. (Kei is wearing a black baby-T and khaki shorts with matching black riding boots and gloves). "Now's not the time for this!" Kei screamed. Then Sakura saw Tsukushi crying on the pillion seat. Later... Sakura : Oh, the game cartridge was stolen by gangsters. Kei : I think the Metro Setagaya gang did it. I was going to bring him to the police station to make a report. Tsukushi : But ne-chan (means sister or sis), the cartridge was someone else's, what are we going to do? Sakura : Don't be a crybaby! (Sakura hits her brother on his head) Don't worry, I'll help you get the cartridge back. The two siblings and their friend are spying on a video game shop (it's called Game Pro, of all names...), which Tsukushi said where the gang usually sold their stolen cartridges. Sakura is determined to get it back for her brother, but Kei is worried that she might get hurt. Sakura : Don't worry, it'll be good for my Street Fighting. Kei and Tsukushi : Street Fighting? Sakura : (In front of Game Pro) Hey, chinpira (small-time gangsters), come out! Aren't you ashamed of yourselves, stealing games from defenceless children? Come out, I want justice! Nobody answered, and Sakura turned to Kei, who told her to look back, and there he was, a giant hulk of a man, coming out from the door. Hulk : Who's the wise guy trying to ruin my business? I'm gonna kill you! Hulk saw the little girl in front of him and deduced that she's the one. Then he saw her short skirt and said to himself, "Ooh, how cute!". Then he said, "Before I beat you, I'm gonna see your underpants!" (Ooh, a paedophile!) and punched Sakura, who fortunately evaded the attack. Sakura : Wow, he's the strongest opponent I've ever faced. Kei : Sakura, be careful! Tsukushi : Beat the fat @$$, ne-chan! Hulk then does a few more punches, and Sakura is amazed at the speed and strength of the giant man. She asked Tsukushi what is the style of the man, and Tsukushi answered back, "It's western Boxing, ne-chan...". Sakura dodges more punches from Hulk, and saw her opening for the Sho-ouken, but she realized she made the same mistake (taking a step forward) and only grazed Hulk's body. We then see Sakura get thrown into Dan, who's shopping for groceries. Tsukushi : Ne-chan! Kei : Sakura-chan! Sakura : He's strong AND fast! His hands have long reach, if only there's a long range attack that I can use... Hulk : (Charging towards Sakura) Die! Dan : (Rises from the ground) Damn, who knocked me over? Oh, it's you Sakura. (Sees Hulk charging towards them) Where did this guy come from? Sakura : (Sees Dan, and thinks to herself) Well, even though I haven't tried it, but I have no choice. I'm small, but I have confidence. If I want to be strong, then I can't lose. Sakura then does a Hadoken. Dan sees his "student" do the Hadoken first time. Tsukushi and Kei are surprised. Then all of them hear a loud crash, and Hulk has fallen to the ground. Sakura : Hah, it's not as hard as it looks. Dan : (Crying because Sakura surpassed him again) Not, it's not possible! Tsukushi and Kei : (Both in ecstatic mood) Sakura, you're the greatest! Sakura then does the 'V' sign (the peace sign with the fingers). She thinks to herself, that she's ready for more challenges. The next part is Sakura's first meeting with Kanzuki Karin. Inside a Rolls Royce, Shibazaki (the bespectacled gentleman in Karin's SFZ3 ending) is chauffeuring young Miss Kanzuki back from a street fight. Shibazaki : Karin-san (Miss Karin)! You must stop these 'Street Fighting' activities. It's against family tradition. Karin : Don't worry, Shibazaki. I've explained it all to oto-sama (Father). The Kanzuki clan controls the world's politics and economy through it's power. As our long-time servant, you should know... Shibazaki : The Kanzuki are winners in everything! Karin : If our ancestors can bring fame to the Kanzuki name during the Sengoku period, then I can too! Shibazaki then thinks to himself that Karin, at such a young age, has matured tremendously and have mastered the Kanzuki philosophies. "People like us cannot be compared to anyone..." Then Karin sees a roadside Street Fight and got interested. She orders Shibazaki to stop the car. She then sees a young schoolgirl fighting a man much older than her. Sakura does her 'flower kick' (towards + MK in SFZ2), and KO's her opponent. "Too easy!" she said, before Dan smacked her head and said, "Don't be too cocky!". The crowd is cheering the victor, Sakura. Dan : I thought they'd be some real challengers here, but there's only trash. You too, Sakura, you need more strength in your attacks. Sakura : Yes, I understand.... (Thinks to herself) I only knew what Street Fighting is all about only after meeting Dan. Everyone likes to watch it. It's like a parade or a festival. Sometimes there are tough challengers. It's very exciting for me, maybe because of 'that man'. Maybe 'that man' is fighting somewhere else, but I can feel his presence right next to me. The crowd then cheers even louder when they see Dan entering. "Even though the world is big, it won't stop me from expanding Saikyo-ryuu all over it!" Dan said as he does the Chouhatsu Densetsu. The crowd goes wild over Dan's showing off, all except Sakura who knows better. Karin winds up her windowscreen and orders Shibazaki to head home. "I want to know who that girl is. Get that information tomorrow," ordered Karin. "The girl with the same uniform as you, Karin-san?" Shibazaki asks for confirmation, but Karin doesn't reply. Instead, she is wondering why she hasn't seen her at school before. Meanwhile Sakura is looking at the sky, thinking about the world. The next morning, students are seen converging toward their school. Among them, Sakura and Kei. Sakura : Kei-chan, ohaiyo! ('Morning Kei!) Kei : You know, you should stop fighting, or you'll get ugly from all that bruises. Sakura : Never mind, we're going to be late for school! Over a cellphone, Karin is receiving Sakura's biodata from Shibazaki. Shibazaki : Name is Sakura Kasugano. DOB is March 15th. Blood type is A. Height is 157 cm (about 5' 2"). Weight is 42 kgs (about 100 pounds, I guess). Eye sights are perfect 20/20. Likes sports, rice and is currently into Street Fighting. Weak in maths and doesn't like video games. While this is happening, Sakura is shown in Physical Ed class (usually the first class of the morning) breaking the school high jump record, while the others are just plain amazed. Shibazaki : (Continues his report) She's open-minded. Loves to fantasize about having long hair like her bestfriend Kei Chitose... Karin : (Outside class, talking to cellphone) Shibazaki, skip the unimportant infos. So, she's just a commoner, but why is she's interested in Street Fighting? Shibazaki : (He's shown near a computer console, with lots of computer hardware and a large monitor ala Batcave) That's all I can dig up. Currently she's with Dan Hibiki, which I assume is to get her exposure into Street Fighting. His moves resemble the USA Street Fighting champion, Ken Masters. Incredible. Karin : I've seen 'him'. The young fighter, who injured the Thailand Kick-boxing 'Emperor'. Ken Masters and 'that man' are from the same martial arts school! Shibazaki, prepare the fighting ring this afternoon. Shibazaki : But Karin-san, you shouldn't fight people like her! Karin : I've made my decision, because she's an excellent fighter. It's recess time, and the two best friends are enjoying their bento (lunchbox) when suddenly Karin appeared behind them, bringing a half-dozen chefs with her. (Karin is wearing the same school uniform like Sakura, which is white shirt with no zipper front, yellow-blue scarf, short blue skirt, standard loose-fit socks and dress shoes). Karin : Hajimemashite, Sakura-san. Atashi wa Kanzuki Karin desu. (How are you, Miss Sakura. I am Karin Kanzuki.) (To the chefs) Serve the guest. Chefs : Hai! Ojo-sama. (Yes! Mistress.) The chefs then wheeled in several serving trays and laid out a feast worthy of a queen in front of Sakura, who is just sitting there with a puzzled look. Karin : If you want to win, then you must have enough energy. This the tradition of the Kanzukis toward their rivals. Sakura then starts to eat the food on the table but Kei whopped her head (that's the third time this has happened to anyone). Sakura : Oww! Why did you hit me? Kei : Do you realise what she's up to? Sakura : (Smiling) Yes, she wants to fight me. Karin : Wrong, I just want to prove that I am the winner in Street Fighting. (Leaves the room, smiling) See you at the courthall (a sort of an indoor stadium). Sakura : I've never met anyone this nice to me! Kei : Wake up, Sakura! She's Karin Kanzuki! She's the heiress of a rich family and only goes to school to look at people's desire. She's beautiful, smart and likes to criticise. She's an expert in a variety of martial arts. Even though she's a certified grandmaster, she's always looking for new challenges. If you fight her, your life could be threatened. It's all because of that Street Fighting you're into. While Kei is explaining this to Sakura, images of Karin as a school girl and a Karate master is shown. Next, it shows the courthall with Kei and Sakura outside. Then Sakura opens the door and enters. Sakura : Don't you worry, Kei-chan, I have to fight her to gain strength to reach 'that man's' level. Kei : You mentioned 'that man' again. Who is he? Sakura: (Ignores the question) Wow, it's so dark in here. Suddenly the floodlights are switched on, and Sakura sees a grimacing face. As the hall gets brighter, she sees a human pyramid, with Karin on top of it. (Karin is wearing her SFZ3 outfit, except that her zippered uniform is white, not red). Karin : I've been waiting for you. Don't worry, I've sealed off the place. No one's going to see you lose. Sakura : (Whispers to Kei) But there's still too many people inside (referring to the human pyramid). Kei : She doesn't respect our status at all. Then a judo fighter in the middle of the pyramid asks to fight Sakura first, because she doesn't believe Sakura's fit enough to fight Karin. Karin : Are you sure? But then, what about the people on top of you? The judo fighter realises his mistake, and starts to cry. He then apologizes to Karin and the rest of the human pyramid, that he's selfish on his feeling. Karin remarked that that's why he or anyone else on the pyramid, isn't qualified to fight her. Karin then jumps down from the pyramid and walks towards Sakura. Karin : According to Street Fighting rules, anything goes. Agree? Sakura : Umm, OK, but what are they (the human pyramid) doing here? Karin : They are the top athletes from each sport in this school. Above them all is me, Karin Kanzuki. Now, we're equal. "You should feel honored to face someone of my stature!" said Karin as she begins her attack with a few jabs. Sakura parries the jabs and saw an opening, but Karin does her counter (Yasha Gaeshi Uwadan) and throws her down the floor with a Ara-kuma Inashi, while the pyramids encourages the girls, and Kei feeling worried (again). Then Sakura does her Shoouken to break free. Both take a breather and assesses each others strength. Karin realizes that Sakura's a real threat and starts to get serious and does her Kourenken (at least that what it looks like), and the pyramid is amazed that Sakura has blocked them all, while Kei is worried that so far Sakura is limited to blocking attacks. Karin ends her Kourenken with a Mujin Kyaku and Sakura thought it was her chance to counter, but was nailed instead. Sakura is fairing pretty bad. Karin goes for the kill, saying that her victory was assured even before the match. She does a RH kick which Sakura counters with her Flower kick (a pyramid member said the attack was 'interesting') and adds a low Short into Shoouken, which Karin manages to evade in time, saying she has found Sakura's weakspot. But Karin hesitated in launching her counter (because she's too busy gloating) and Sakura lands just in time. She realizes that she needs to change tactics and remember Dan's advice to improvise during combat, so she modifies the Shoouken into the Midare Sakura which completely takes Karin by surprise and knocks her down. Pyramid member : Karin-san...has lost! (the athletes tumble onto the floor, shocked that Karin had lost) Kei : (Jumping with joy on Sakura's shoulder) Sugoi! (Great!) Sakura : That was close. (Thinks to herself, while an image of Ryu appears) There must be more people with the same strength as 'that man'. Street Fighting is a good training ground. Days later, near Dan's campsite (he's a hobo like Ryu) Karin : (Shibazaki at her side) Ha ha ha! I'll give you a chance to be my teacher. Dan : (looking puzzled) This girl is WEIRD! The scene changes to a few weeks later, at the Kasugano's residence. Sakura (wearing pj's) is sitting at her study table, looking at her trinket box. Inside, wads of 1000 Yen notes are seen. She recalls the days earlier incident... Dan : Oh, you don't want to accept the fight money (the money inside her trinket box)? Sakura : But I'm not fighting for money! Dan : Sakura, you should know that this is no ordinary money, this is fight money, a certificate of a Street Fighter's prowess in his skills! (Grabs Sakura in a headlock, looking menacing) How dare you say "I don't want it!" Sakura : I want it! I want it! Dan : (Releases headlock) Just keep it. It might prove useful someday. Flashback ends, and ... Sakura : (Slams the trinket box shut) I don't agree! Strength is not measured by money! Tsukushi : (Still playing SuFami downstairs) Quiet please, I'm trying to play here! Sakura : (an image of, yes, Ryu appears) But then I'll need it for my fare to find 'him'. and I have to go to school too... Suddenly something crashes through her bedroom window, and knocks Sakura's study chair, while Sakura scrambles away from the shrapnel. A figure rises up, and it's Karin Kanzuki, wearing a one-piece black blouse, the same dress shoes (boots, to be exact) and roses as line art. Karin : Excuse me for disturbing you. I haven't congratulated you for defeating me the other day. (Sakura looks scared) The reason I came here is to invite you to a Street Fighting tournament. Sakura : No thanks, I'm not interested. Karin : Aren't you going to ask me why I came through your window? Well, this is my way of intimidating you before our rematch, when I'll surely defeat you. (Laughs like her intro pose) Seeing Sakura looking disinterested, she repeats her propaganda, and the art has both looking like SD's ala Pocket Fighters. Karin then gives her a pin with a punch embossed on one side (it's actually a tracking device) and asks her to wear it to school tomorrow. She added that she'll feel the heat of battle then. Then she leaves via the smashed window, and Sakura tells her to wait, she wants to ask more questions. Karin : (Holding onto ladder dangling from helicopter ala SFZ3 special entrance versus Sakura) Good luck. I'll send someone to fix the window tomorrow. Sakura : Hey, wait! Oto-san : (Inside house, unseen) Sakura, what is that loud (Dad) noise? Tsukushi : It's too noisy, I can't concentrate on the game! The next day, Sakura (wearing the pin on her left shoulder) and Kei are walking to school. Kei : She gave you this pin? How ugly! Sakura : (Strangely not wearing her white Ryu headband) I don't know why she asked me to. I mean, I've made up my mind to stop Street Fighting. Kei : Honto ni (Really)? Are you serious? Then both sees Dan Kuuryuken'ing a street punk (who looks like Bahn from Sega's Fighting Vipers) and laughing/enjoying it. Sakura : Dan-san! Kei : (Looking PO'ed) Oh, great! Just the man I'd want to see right now! Dan : (Does his taunt win pose) I'm the best! Punk #2 : (Checks the KO'd punk) Senpai (Senior)! Dan : (To Sakura) Hey Sakura, you got the pin too! Look, I've won four already! Sakura : Wow, that is great (looking slightly disinterested). Punk #2 : How dare you hurt my leader! (He looks just like Bahn too, and wears a pin on his jacket lapel) Dan : Hey, that's the rules of the jungle pal! Punk #2 : I don't think so! (Sees Sakura with a pin) Hey schoolgirl! Let's fight! Sakura is surprised at the intimidation and Dan tells her to waste no more time and beat the guy up. "But I have to go to school now!" in which the punk answered "What, school? I skipped school since ten years ago!" and proceeds to fight Sakura, and manages to knock her with a 'Knuckle Attack'. Kei : (Again, worried about her friend) Sakura-chan! Dan : Be careful of his punches. The punk then goes in for the kill, but Sakura was ready and does a low Fierce 2-in-1 Hadoken combo (which barely registers as a combo in SFZ2), and ponders the fact that if it weren't for their appearances, they could've been friends. Dan then goes to the punk to see if he's still concious. Sakura : Dan-san, I think I know why strength cannot be compared against money. When the man punched me, I felt the punch hard, and realised the strength in it. That's why they continue to fight. Right, Dan-san? Dan : (Smiles) You're quite talkative this morning. (Tosses the punk's pin) Here, it's yours. If you want the real answers, tie up your hair and find it! The scene shifts to Shibazaki's computer monitor, which shows a map of Setagaya (I think) and Sakura's picture on a window (the Microsoft Windows-type). Another window shows her fight time, which was all of 18 seconds. Shibazaki : Took only one round, Karin-san. Karin : (On the streets, disposing a judo exponent and talking via a Bluetooth microphone) I have expected that. I've assembled many fighters, all fighting for the pins. (A map of Tokyo appear behind her). If I cannot beat Sakura, then I will ruin the Kanzuki name. Shibazaki : (Crying) We are the winners in everything! Always uphelding the Kanzuki name! How awe-inspiring! Karin : Hmmph. Ganbare masu (Try for the best)! Meanwhile, a tardy Sakura faces her next opponent. The smoke clears, she is heard saying, "Looks like this tourney isn't just for Japanese people," as Lee (from the first Street Fighter) appears. Sakura wastes no time and comes in with a few jabs and Lee counters them all. "So this is Chinese Wu Shu (war art, the proper name for Kung Fu)," Sakura said. She then decides to show Lee how a real counter works and does her Kick Zero Counter (Alpha Counter, the standing Roundhouse) but Lee was anticipating and does a splits kick (not sure if this is his trademark move, it has been 16 years, you know...). Sakura is knocked over to a wall, but she wasn't even fazed. She decides to continue attacking, and while Lee punches, Sakura leaps to the air and does a crossup Forward. Lee is suckered, and turns around, is hit by the crossup, and Sakura follows with standing Fierce (the double uppercut) and 2-in-1 Shoouken combo (Nakahira's art looks exactly like the in-game animations). Lee is KO'ed, Sakura feels that this is her 'strength' and wonders when will she meet 'that man' again. "Maybe when I'm old, when I've stopped Street Fighting". At another alley, another martial arts exponent falls, while Karin looks exhausted. Karin : That's the 20th! Shibazaki : Karin-san, daijyobu (are you OK)? Karin : Never mind about me, how is Sakura doing? Shibazaki : (Checks Sakura's status on computer screen) Yes, she's defeated 18 people. There are 16 people left, the outcome is still uncertain. (Pauses for a moment) Oh, there's someone different. (Karin listens in on hear headphone) There's a fighter named Maki (the Final Fight 2 kunoichi), who, around 3 pm, started amassing a large winning streak. Karin : (A long pause) 58 people defeated! (No this is not Maki's win record, this is someone elses who just pipped her) Shibazaki : Yes, the unknown fighter also started at 3 pm and defeated 58 people in the space of 2 hours. That's roughly 2.33 seconds for each match. Karin : Weird, who is that person? Can such a record be attained? Get me more info, Shibazaki! As Shibazaki acknowledges, Dan is grabbing the free beer (it's Suntory) from a damaged vending machine, while a fighter is seen lying next to it. He starts to feel bored from the lack of challenge, when suddenly the fighter with the largest win streak appears... Ken Masters : Why don't you just give up? Dan : Who said that? Who do you think you're talking too? Ken : (He is doing his Start+Strong win pose, the 'scoops hair off from his face and "Yatta, ze!" thumbs up') Ha ha ha, I like you already! PART TWO Continuing where we left off, Dan just found out who taunted him as he turned around to face the challenger. Dan : Ha ha ha, even a small tournament like this could attract the American Street Fighting Champion. I'm surprised, Mr. Ken Masters. Ken : (Holding a bunch of pins in his hand) I just like to meddle in someone else's affairs, besides visiting my late masters's tomb. Dan : So desu ka, but how unfortunate of you to bump into me. Ken : You should've said that before the match started! (Throws down the pins) Dan : (Does his opening pose, the taunt) Come on, you SOB! As shouts of ki-ai are heard, Shibazaki arrives at the scene, and quickly positioned himself out of view. Shibazaki : Even Ken Masters is interested in this tournament. I must inform Karin-san! A while later... Karin : (Adjusts her headphone while fighting) Ken Masters? (Seen parrying an opponent's punches) Even though this tourney is for those who have pins, but technically anyone can enter or decline to fight. Opponent : Tae Kwon Do and Tai Chi? This girl knows a lot about martial arts! Karin : Good, opponents like these (prob. referring to both her opponent and Ken) are what I want! Karin then does her Yasha Gaeshi Uwadan, and knocks down her opponent. He admits defeat, and Karin rubs his wounds with "In the Kanzuki tradition, losers are not worthy of talking back," and smashes his face on the pavement. She then recalls about what she knows about Ken Masters. Karin : Hadoken, Shoryuken and Tatsumaki Senpuukyaku. Those who master these techniques can rule the fighting world. Sakura's moves replicate these moves. It should prove interesting. Ah ha ha ha ha! Back to Sakura, as she's having her lunch at the roadside. Her sailor fuku is dirtied and she has several band-aids on her knees and face. Then she sees Kei returning from school. Sakura : (Feeling a bit shy about her appearance and for skipping class) Ah, Kei-chan. You're heading back from school... Kei : Look at you. All dirty and full of bruises, but you can still laugh. (Sees a crumbled wall nearby) The wall is smashed. Are you going to destroy Setagaya just to fulfill your hearts desire to win this tournament? A short pause, and... Kei : But I saw this cute Street Fighter on my way home. I'll forgive you if you could ask his name for me... Sakura : (Looks somewhat disinterested) Was the cute guy a good fighter? Kei : He was great! If I'm not mistaken, he could do the Hadoken too... Sakura's eyes widened at the mention of Hadoken. Next we see Sakura sprinting towards the place Kei said she saw the man. Her ears recall every bit of info Kei told her. "He was wearing a red gi, and had golden blonde hair. I think he was fighting Dan-san..." Sakura : (Thinking to herself) He uses the same techniques as 'that man'. Then he must know who 'that man' is! Like, what's his name, where does he live, everything I want to know about that man. Everything! (Saw someone across the road) Eh, red gi, blonde hair? A close up shot appears as Sakura crossed the road. It was a woman. A kunoichi (female Ninja) to be exact. "A woman?" said Sakura. The kunoichi also noticed the schoolgirl in front of her. (It's Maki, from Final Fight 2 on SuFami/SNES, and soon on Capcom vs SNK 2 too. She looks the same, except she is using a tonfa/nightstick). Maki : So, you're a competitor too? (Notice the pins on Sakura's left shoulder) Looks like you've won a lot of fights earlier. You must be a great fighter! Sakura : Ah, sumimasen (Ah, excuse me)...?(Sakura actually meant "Can I ask you something?") Maki : If you want to be excused, fight me first, or just admit defeat! (Maki thought that Sakura wants to be excused from the fight) Sakura : Chigau (No), I just want to ask something. I just want to know if you've met someone else besides me that wears this white headband? Maki : Headband? I used to wear a headband myself. (A picture of Maki squatting wearing a long coat with Kanji/Chinese characters on it, holding a katana and wearing a headband herself, while two others are seen waist down with the same coat, another one squatting next to her, but his face was covered by the word ballons, does anybody know where this picture came from?) Sakura : (Looking annoyed) I'm not talking about you. Maki starts to get annoyed too, since she wanted to fight first and the schoolgirl isn't even intimidated by her presence. Sakura also feels a bit down, since she assumed that this is not the person Kei said she saw earlier. Maki : (Loses her patience and slashes at Sakura with her tonfa) Fight me first before resuming your search! (The tonfa grazed Sakura's band-aid) Don't underestimate me, fight harder! (She continues slashing) Sakura : A weapon? Maki : Why, is it not allowed? Look at that man down there! Sakura sees a KO'd fighter. From his clothes, Sakura assumed that he was a Samurai. She then saw a broken katana next to him. "A katana?" said Sakura and Maki quickly seized the situation and does a downward slash, and Sakura is forced to use her hands to block it. Sakura : (Grimacing from the pain) Ah, ittai, ittai yo! (Oww, that hurts, that hurts!) Maki : (Looks puzzled) I hit her hard, and still no broken bones... Sakura then turns around and looks concentrated on the fight. Maki also smiles, as she'd expect a good fight from Sakura. We then switch back to Dan, whose face is wounded and he's struggling to stay up. Ken : Hey, not bad. Shibazaki : (Behind lamppost) He's still up! I guess we'll have to re-evaluate his rankings. Ken : Street Fighting is fun, but Eliza doesn't like me entering it. Dan : Eliza? Ken : My girlfriend. Dan : Huh. This is men's business, why does a woman has to interfere? Ken : Forget that, I'm more interested in your answer to this question. Why are you copying my moves? Dan : What? I thought you're the copycat fighter? Ken : No, you're the monkey! Dan : No, you are! Ken and Dan continue their argument/bickering and Shibazaki then feels weird about the whole situation. Suddenly, Dan powers up and this forces Ken to put up his guard. Dan : Idiot! You've raised my anger. Kami-sama (God), forgive me but I have no choice! At least I don't have a girlfriend to worry about! (Dan then does the flashing version of the Kuuryuken) Shibazaki : Dan's flashing? What is that move? But then we see Dan's face being punched, as Ken countered the Kuuryuken with his Shinryuken. Ken : (Lands from Shinryuken) Well, how does it feel? (Dan is seen falling onto a car, smashing the roof and windows) Shibazaki : Incredible. Just incredible! Karin : (Appears behind Shibazaki) Fighting Ken Masters... is a stupid thing to do. (Ken notices someone behind the lamppost) Shibazaki : Karin-san! Karin : Hmmm, I don't know why I'm interested in both you and Sakura. Maybe because both of you have an interesting type of martial arts. Ken : (Discovers the challenger to be a cute girl) Excuse me for a moment. (Faces a lamppost) I'm sorry, Eliza. If I'd knew there were challengers like her, I wouldn't have come. (Karin is puzzled by Ken's actions) But this girl taunted me only after seeing me fight. If she wasn't good herself, she would've stayed quiet. I musn't let anyone know my weakness. Back to Sakura, who is Hadoken'ing Maki, but Maki's speed kept her safe from the attacks. Maki : It would be hard for me to hit you, if you keep doing that. Very smart, but then you can't hit me too. I would like to see how long will you last. Sakura : (Talking to herself) She knows it's pointless to continue using the Hadoken. I'll have to find another way. Maki : (Talking to herself) I must find a way to get inside. Playing the waiting game is boring! (Sakura stops her Hadokens) Now's my chance! Sakura : (Running towards Maki) I know this isn't the best strategy, but it's better than the previous one! Maki : You truly are inexperienced in fighting. Iku yo (Come on)! Sakura charges towards Maki, who's waiting and slashes when she reached her. Sakura blocks the tonfa with her arms again. She is seen grimacing at the pain. Maki : Bushin-ryuu focuses on one-fighting-against-many. Your strategy is useless (shows a picture of Guy fighting an onslaught of street thugs) Sakura : One-fighting-against-many? (Sakura drops her guard and Maki punches her) Maki : (Jumps towards Sakura) Actually, the real reason you will lose is because you lack experience! I only need one attack to defeat you! (She does a downward strike using her tonfas) SMACKK!!! Sakura : (Still standing, blocking the attack with her wristguard) Thank you for your advice. When you attacked me, you left your legs open for attack. Thus, your legs are your downfall! Maki : (A bit surprised that Sakura managed to defeat her attack) Wrong! Bushin-ryuu is not like what you think! (Does a kick to counter) Sakura : Really? Iku wa, yo! (Does her Haru Ichiban, which hits Maki clean) Sakura then finishes the Haru Ichiban (the standing RH), expecting Maki to be defeated, but she only see Maki smiling. "Still smiling?" and stands up straight, but Maki is nowhere in sight. Maki : (Only her voice is heard, her pin spinning on the ground) Looks like I was careless. You are a fast learner, which surprises me. But you cannot rely only on this to succeed. What you need is more experience. You must accept all forms of challenges. Then we'll have a rematch! Sakura : Yes, I won't lose! I'll be stronger next time! (To herself) Then to face 'him'! We then switch back to Ken, who is readjusting his shoulder. "Damn, this girl is good. My shoulder hurts!" Shibazaki : Karin-san! (Karin is on the ground, obviously lost her match) Ken : Miss, can I ask you a question? Did you meet a competitor wearing a white headband? (Karin and Shibazaki is surprised by this) I have a feeling that he's here. (We see Sakura looking at the sky) Next we see a sequence of pictures, first Karin. She is wearing a winter coat, over an open-midriff T-shirt and jeans). The words are "Karin Kanzuki. Heiress of the Kanzuki Zainbatsu. The competition has reached it's climax. She was once defeated by Sakura (seen as her SFZ2/SFZ3 version), and she organized this tournament to stage her rematch. Now there are only 8 people left in the tournament!" Then we see a small clinic, where the competitors are having treatment for their wounds. Guy 1 : Blonde hair and red gi? It must be Ken Masters! I didn't think he'd participate in this tournament. He should win easily! Guy 2 : I think I saw him fighting a guy in a pink gi. Sakura : (A bandage on her wrist) Pink gi? It must be Dan-san! Where are they now? Guy 1 : I last saw him behind the Capcom building... Sakura : (Seen already running) Arigato gozaimasu! American Street Fighting Champion, Ken Masters. The champion with three trademark moves. Even though it's only rumors, but Sakura is positive that he knows 'that man's' identity. Sakura has grown up. She can feel the similarities between him and 'that man'. Especially with her experience and Street Fighting. She is no longer a 15 year-old! Suddenly... A guy said "Stop right there! This city is big. To track you down is hard enough". Sakura : The Kawasaki (another unclear translation) gang from Setagaya! (Note that each has their own names, but they weren't even translated, so I'll just have to provide descriptions. If anyone knows the exact names, please help out. The first guy looks like Hyo from Shiritsu Justice Gakuen/Rival Schools, another looks like Iori except his left eye is scarred, another looks like Goro, and the last one has long hair and uses a Chinese folding fan). Fan : One of our informers told me you've beaten one of our gang member. Hyo : Looks like we'll have to solve that problem. Iori : Choose either one-on-one or Battle Royale! Goro : Quickly! Sakura : Neither! I have important business. Fan : (Unfolds his fan) Both we and you are competitors. Why won't you fight, Street Fighter? Iori : Looks like she finally understood. Hyo : Let's begin now! Sakura realises she has no choice and starts the battle. She does a Shoouken and several uppercuts. While this is happenning the members are all tossed up like in a game of volleyball, with words like 'Serve' and 'Receive' are shown, as Sakura does a massive juggle combo. The gang members realized their mistake and cursed their luck. Sakura then does a 'Toss' (her standing Fierce) and jumps, doing her Sakura Otoshi/jumping Fierce ('Attack'). "This is the Volleyball Attack!" "Winner is Sakura!" At an office building... Male Staff : (Holding a volleyball) Come on, Kasugano, join us this time! Oto-san : (Packing his briefcase) Sorry, but I have to go home to have dinner with my family. Female Staff : Don't you live in Setagaya, Kasugano-san? The police said that there is a traffic congestion there. Male Staff : I heard the area's been closed off from vehicles for a special occasion. Rich people, they can do anything they wish with their money! Oto-san : Near my house? We return to Ken, who just finished another opponent. Dan : (Waiting for Sakura to arrive) What took you so long? I'm bored from your fight. Ken : (Talks to himself) He can still complain even though I whupped him up. (To Dan) I like to do it in style, so people will remember me. Shibazaki : (Inside Rolls) Karin-san, she's right on time. Karin : (Wearing a tight turtleneck sweater) What's the status? Shibazaki : She's heading this way, but there's an obstacle in her path. Karin : People like this are no problem to her. Dan : Just a few more minutes! Then we see Sakura punching a guy, who lands on the Rolls while Ken notices. "Huh?" Dan : She's here? Karin : Yes! Ken : Someone's running. Light footsteps. A girl. And now there's TWO. Sakura arrives, and she mimics her entry pose (running from the opposite side, screeching to a halt). The final match, and Nakahira shows mug shots of everyone. Sakura, Ken, Dan and Karin. The area is quiet. Then... Sakura : Err, Nihongo wa wakarimasuka? Anata no Ken Masters desu ka? (Err, do you speak Japanese? Are you Ken Masters?) Ken : Uhh, hai! (Uhh, yes!) (Both then turn their backs to each other, surprising Dan and Karin) Dan : Turned around? Karin :What are they doing? Sakura : (Whispering to herself) My heart is beating faster. I just want to ask him about 'that man'. Ken : How come she resembles 'him' so much? I didn't know 'he' had a kid sister. Maybe 'his' daughter? It couldn't be! Sakura : What to do? Calm down, Sakura! (A picture of you-know-who appears) Ahh! What would 'he' do in this situation? (Takes a deep breathe) Of course. (Turns around and talks to Ken) Right now there's only one thing to do. Ken Masters, I'm your Street Fighter opponent. Let's fight! Ken : (Rubs his head) If you say so. (Smiles) Ikuzou! Fight your very best! Sakura : I won't let you down. Their eyes show determination, and "HADOKEN!", a mini-explosion is seen over the neighborhood. Meanwhile Oto-san just reached a corner, when he saw a lamppost had fallen to the ground. Then he sees his house's rooftiles on the ground. Oto-san : My house. Damaged. What has happened here? What about my family? My wife? Sakura-chan and Tsukushi-kun? I'll protect you all! (A family picture is shown, Sakura for once is not wearing her sailor fuku, but Tsukushi is playing a Game Boy) Then he sees Sakura landing on the wall next to him. "Sakura?" but she doesn't notice her father and instead does a Shunpuu kyaku to Ken. Ken : (Blocking the Shunpuu kyaku) This is a poor imitation! Too bad. Not enough power. Sakura : He's not even flinching! (Changes tactics and does her Flower kick) Ken : Not bad, but still too childish. (Counters with a Shoryuken) Karin : She's hit! Dan : But not enough power to KO her! Sakura does the recovery roll (qcd + p in SFZ2, 2K in SFZ3) and Oto-san asks her again, but she still doesn't notice him. Ken : (Blocking more attacks from Sakura) She's putting on the pressure, not stopping the attacks. This is just like 'him'. (Sees Sakura readying her Hadoken) Ahh! Too slow! (Major counters with a standing Forward) Sakura : No true weaknesses. He's really great! But I won't give up. Ken and 'that man' didn't become great fighters in just one day. (Readies another Hadoken) Ken : Are you finished? Didn't I tell you, you're techniques are inferior! (Does another standing Forward anticipating a Hadoken) But then a bright flash is seen. The Hadoken was just a diversion! Karin and Dan realised this, and Oto-san just stand there looking amazed. Sakura jumps up and flashes (ala Oricom/Custom Combo). Ken : Up there! Can she withstand a Shinryuken? Sakura : I hoped that before I face 'him', I'd face someone really great. Now I'm satisfied! As she descends from the Oricom/CC flash, she does a Roundhouse (the stomp), a low Strong into a Shunpu kyaku, and keeps doing the Shunpuu kyaku, and finally a Shoouken, all hitting Ken clean. "I win?" whispered Sakura. As a sequence of pictures show Ken coming down and rolling (qcd+P in SFZ2 or 2K in SFZ3) pics of Karin, Dan, and Oto-san all looking surprised at the combatants. Sakura : (To herself) Is it true that I just beat Street Fighting Champion, Ken Masters? (Ken then stops near a wall, and blood is trickling from his face, but still smiling) Ahh, he's still up! I just beat him. No one can withstand those attacks! Why is he still smiling? WHY? Both then lunge towards their opponents, knowing that this is the decisive attack. Sakura does her Shoouken, but Ken's Shoryuken is just too perfect for her to beat. She lost.... Later, at the Kasugano's, Sakura just regained conciousness. Oka-san : (Shutting the windows) Oh, you're awake? Sakura : (Lying in bed) Oka-san? (To herself) I remembered (She saw the last thing before she lost conciousness, Ken's fist beating hers and taking her out cold), I've lost! (Pulls her bedsheets over her head) Oka-san : Go downstairs and help out in the kitchen. There's plenty of guests tonight. Sakura : Guests? Sakura then goes down and notices a lot of noise. Then she sees her family, Karin, Shibazaki, Dan and Ken Masters on the dining table, lots of food on the table. Oto-san : (Looking rather cheerful) Oh, she's awake. Come, join us! Sakura : (To herself) Ken? Why is he here? (To Oto-san) Err, I have to help Oka-san at the kitchen... Oto-san : Street Fighting Champion and Kanzuki-sama is here, you should entertain them. Dan : (Wearing a sweater) Oji-san (Uncle)! Why didn't you include my name? Oto-san : (Looking stern) Who are you, anyway? Shibazaki : (Rises and goes to Sakura) Don't worry, I'll help Mrs. Kasugano. Enjoy the feast. Next we see Shibazaki shredding cabbage skillfully like a chef, and Oka-san complements his work. Oka-san : (To Shibazaki) I used to worry about Sakura when she was injured, but now I'm not worried anymore. (Everyone was shown listening to Ken's Street Fighting stories) Shibazaki : There's nothing to worry anymore, it's all over. Oto-san : (Peaked through the door) Is everything ready? Oka-san : (Smiling) Oh, we're ready. Karin : (Rises up) Now I'll present the trophies. Does anyone object? (Karin is wearing a sleeveless shirt over her skirt, and a pearl necklace) We next see the trophy, in the shape of a clenched fist. Next we see both Ken and Sakura holding their trophies looking shy (both holding a similar trophy), Karin behind them smiling. (Ken is wearing a long-sleeve jersey, and Sakura's wearing a T-shirt over her school skirt). We then see Tsukushi playing SuFami Street Fighter II with Ken. Tsukushi : You're good! Ken : Nothing to it! Dan : (Obviously pissed at either of them for not letting him play) Come on, be reasonable! Oka-san : (Still talking to Shibazaki) They don't look like bad people (referring to Dan and Ken). As long as you people are with my Sakura, I don't have to worry again. Then we see mug shots (again) of the main cast. Ken having fun, Dan still looking PO'ed, Karin looking demure, Sakura shyly smiles, and Oto-san drinking from a beeercan. Later still, outside the house... Ken : Thank you, Mrs. Kasugano! Oto-san : Don't forget to visit us again when you're in Japan! Ken : OK! (Waving his hands goodbye from the Rolls's window) Oto-san : (Smiling proudly) My workmates will surely respect me! Sakura : (Tears forming in her eyes) Oto-san... gomennasai.... For not telling you about the Street Fighting. (Wipes tears off cheeks) Oto-san : (Looks angry, but later sighs) Actually, I was there when you were fighting Ken, only you didn't realise it. (Sakura looks up) Street Fighting... is a dangerous activity. I should've barred you against entering such an activity after knowing you had entered it. (Long pause) But, since you've put up so much effort in it, as your parents, we have no reasons not to let you continue. (Both then hug each other) Meanwhile, inside the Rolls Royce, Ken is seen clutching his chest in pain. Dan : Useless! You've broken three rib bones, and still want to show off! Is this the American Street Fighting Champion? Ken : Ha ha ha, she has many similarities with 'that man'. That's why I can't lose... Dan : And that's why this happened... (Thinking of Sakura, smiling) Hope she succeeds someday! We then see a screen, showing Guile being Tatsumaki Senpuukyaku'd by Ryu. Tsukushi is still playing Street Fighter II when Oto-san and Sakura came inside. Tsukushi : I still can't beat him! Oto-san : Tsukushi, stop playing and go take a shower! Tsukushi : Just a bit more. Oh, ne-chan, Ken-san said he wanted to have a race with you. Sakura : A race? Tsukushi : A race to see who can defeat a man called Ryu. Oto-san : Ryu? Sakura : (Smiles) RYU! Ken : (Still inside RR, still clutching his chest) Japan as the first step, whoever defeats Ryu first is the winner! Onwards! The race to defeat Ryu! EPILOGUE A picture of Karin is shown, with the words Ganbatte, Karin-san! and her vital stats. Here they are : Name Karin Kanzuki DOB 15th September 197x Blood type B Height 162 cm (roughly 5'5") Weight 48 kgs (I dunno?) Anyone with a map of Tokyo can look it up. In the 23rd prefecture, is a place called Kanzuki. It's 80 squre kilometers in size. Has steep hills, a raging river, and yet the life surrounding it hasn't destroyed the natural flora and fauna. (This place may or may not exist. As the description is written, aerial shots of the place is shown). The panel shows a giant gate, a man standing on top and Karin in front of the gate. Daigenjuurou : We are the winners in everything! Yet you lost at the Street Fighting tournament! If you want to prove your worthiness as a Kanzuki, come inside! Karin : (Feeling rather guilty) Oto-sama, you don't have to shout. Daigenjuurou : (The gate opens) This is the only ground route to the house. Since generations ago, this route has a special significance to the Kanzukis. You must pass three tests before being called a Kanzuki. You'll face the King of the Skies, King of the Waters and King of the Land! (Sees Karin smiling cockyly, and thinks to himself) Oh, the arrogant smile. She does have Kanzuki blood running through her veins. The first test : The Sky Door! It's actually a single rope run across a valley. To pass, you must tiptoe to the other side. Karin : (Walks confidently on the tightrope) Oh, how easy. I was expecting something harder! (Realises something approaching, and a giant eagle slashes at her) Daigenjuurou : Ha ha ha! Only a piece of rope, and an eagle attacking! Can you pass this test, Karin? Karin : (Her wrists have slash marks on them) In this situation there's only one thing to do. (She sees the eagle swooping down for another attack, and she jumps of the ropes, as the eagle missed, grabbed the rope with her hands and use the elasticity to add force to her kick aimed at the eagle. As she does this, she recalled how Sakura Shoouken'd her. She passed the first test, and crosses the valley) Daigenjuurou : Next is the second test. The Water Door! (A waterfall) In the raging waters, leg speed is useless. Karin : Where is the King of the Waters? Suddenly a grizzly bear lunges towards Karin from the base of the waterfall. Daigenjuurou : (Standing on top of the waterfall) Inside the waterfall is a grizzly bear. If you are slashed by it's claw, you are bound to get wounded. Can you pass this test, Karin? Karin : Hmmph, no challenge at all, when compared to Ken Masters' Shoryuken! (She recalled how Ken defeated her, and smashes the grizzly's skull using a head and knee bash) Huh, defeating bears are a necessity in a Street Fighter's training. Or have you forgot, Oto-sama? Daigenjuurou : Good, this is taunting by a Kanzuki. But there is still the final test, the Safari Door! A match against the King of the Land, the majestic lion! It's speed is unmatchable! Karin : (Sees the lion) Oh, the king of the animals. (Stares at the lion, and suddenly the lion becomes as domestic as a housecat, Karin petting it's mane) Daigenjuurou : An animal like this can be tamed by Karin? What did she do? (His cellphone rings, and he answers it) What? Are you sure? (To Karin) How dare you! Karin : (Smiling) Now I have 80% control in the Zaibatsu. I don't know about the past, but I think the tester should also be tested. Daigenjuurou : (Looks a bit worried) Oh, economy is not important, power is. I'll train you some more! Karin : Then I'll be waiting. (Leaves the Safari Door) Daigenjuurou : Where are you going? Karin : When Sakura first defeated me, I understood one thing, Rulers are always lonely, so I want to go out of this place and explore the world. Daigenjuurou : (To himself, somewhat proud) She's grown up. Later... Dan : Don't worry, I'm right behind you to defeat Sakura. But... you can't treat me like this! Dan is eating instant bowl noodles beside his camp, while Karin is having tea on the patio of her summer house. Seems Karin is using Dan as her teacher, but as usual Dan is shortchanged. Oh yeah, there is a Print Club-style picture at the back, which shows the whole cast of Sakura Ganbaru! Notable are Tsukushi, who is still playing Game Boy while Ken is coaching him, Kei looking worried at Dan, who is (yep) taunting and Maki punching him in the face, fed up with his attitude. The rest, Oto-san, Oka-san, Sakura and Karin are just smiling. TO BE CONTINUED The Street Fighter Series and all related names, titles, characters, materials, etc. are the copyrighted property of CAPCOM CO., LTD. The storyline described on this page are the copyrighted property of Masahiko Nakahira and Shinseisha. All rights reserved. This Document was written by MFZ (c) 1998, 2001, 2003.