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Chapter Text

Year: 1946

(Pokey Oaks County, Day). A car was driving through a dirt road surrounded by greenery on either side, kicking up a trail of dust as it went on, the sound of gravel getting mushed under its weight. The car was a taxi cab, painted in a coat of vibrant yellow with a sign mounted on the roof that did in fact read “Taxi”. The taxi turned into a small town, a developing town that was in the heart of the Pokey Oaks County, a small town called Townsville. The taxi cab drove through the busy streets of the town, passing by cars with people inside who were on their way to their destination whether that be work or just running errands. The taxi driver was a rather rotund man with large limbs and hands that almost hid the steering wheel he was gripping. He had brown hair that appeared like a mountain, pointing up to the hair with a bushy mustache, wearing a pink shirt and brown cargo pants with sandals. The driver glanced at his driver’s mirror, greeting the passenger in the backseat.

Dialogue:

Ernst: “Moin, young man! Nice day is it not?!”

The young man in the back was tall and muscular yet lean with blonde, blue eyes and a bright smile. He was dressed in a policeman’s uniform, a dark grey uniform with a blue stripe running down his pant legs. His hat that was of the same colour of his uniform was resting on the man’s lap. The young man asked; “Excuse me? I’m sorry, I don’t–.”

Ernst: “Moin! I say hello!”

The young man, finally understanding the man, replied; “Oh, hello. Again, I’m sorry. That’s German, correct?”

Ernst: “Why yes, young man! I came here in 1940, and have been driving ever since.”

The young man asked; “What made you decide to move?”

Ernst: “The explosion of 1939, of course.”

The young man commented; “The one in Abysus, of course.” 

Ernst: “Yes, yes! It’s not like it was some war, eh? We only have one of those.”

The large man then laughed while the young man contributed with a light chuckle.

Ernst: “Hey, what’s your name, young man?!”

Joe: “Joseph, sir. Joseph Jeralds but you can call me Major.”

The taxi cab pulled up the Townsville Police Station where Joseph exited the car. The station was built into the shape of a large rectangle and had two floors with several windows as well as two front doors that towered over anyone who entered. The building was built using brick, the ground floor’s exterior walls having them exposed while the exterior walls of the second floor were painted white.

Joe: “Thank you, Ernst.”

Ernst: “Of course! Good luck, army man!”

Joe waved goodbye to Ernst as he drove off. Joe then looked ahead at the station and took a breath, smiling upon releasing it while placing both hands on his hips. Joe entered the precinct and was elated by his surroundings; officers were either running around the tiled floor or sitting at their desks doing paperwork. While Joe was taking it all in, someone called out to him, making him turn to the left where he saw a Townsville officer. A Hispanic man with a mustache wearing the same uniform as Joe was.

Joe: “Oh, hello.”

Officer Perez: “Hey, I’m Officer Perez. Are you the new guy?”

Joe: “Yes, yes I am. My name is Joseph Jeralds or Joe but you can call me Major if you want.”

Officer Perez: “Major? Well, you’re in the wrong line of work, then. The sign up office for the military is just down the street.”

Joe: “Oh, I–.”

Perez laughed.

Officer Perez: “I’m kidding, Joe.”

Officer Perez patted Joe on the shoulder, telling him; “Welcome to the force, Major .” Officer Perez pointed at the office straight ahead and told Joe; “That’s the captain’s office, that’s where you need to be.” Joe noticed a sleeping officer and commented; “Really? On the job.”

Officer Perez: “Oh, him? Yea, he… he does that. Don’t mind him, just get to your interview.”

Joe: “I will, thank you.”

Joe headed to the captain’s office, walking past that same sleeping officer on the way there, shaking his head at the sight. Stepping into the captain’s office, Joe saw the captain of the police himself, sitting at his desk waiting for him. He was elderly gentleman but still very fit with a large stature. He had a long, bushy and grey mustache that matched his grey hair hidden underneath the cowboy hat he wore. The captain wore the same uniform although his was more of a coat. His green eyes stared right at Joe who seemed to be lost in the man’s gaze. The captain asked; “How long are ya gonna keep standin’ there?”

Joe: “Oh, I’m sorry…”

Joe glanced at the plaque sitting near the edge of the captain’s desk which read “Captain Jedediah Tennyson” .

Joe: “Captain Tennyson, good morning.”

Captain Tennyson replied with a grunt. Joe rushed to his seat, sitting in the chair opposite the captain. Captain Tennyson opened his desk drawer and took out a stack of files, stating; “Your files were sent over beforehand but I wanted to go over them face to face.”

Captain Tennyson: “Joseph Jeralds, correct?”

Joe: “Yes, sir.”

Captain Tennyson: “Also says here that you also go by ‘Major’ ? Were you in the army, son?”

Joe: “No, sir. That was a nickname from my Uncle Sam.”

Captain Tennyson placed down Joe’s files and asked; “Uncle Sam, huh? You mean Sergeant Samuel Jeralds who fought in the World War? That Uncle Sam?”

Joe: “Well, I guess he is popular.”

Captain Tennyson: “That’s an understatement, kid.”

Joe: “True.”

The captain continued reading from Joe’s files; “Oh, you’re from the Pokey Oaks County– Farmsville to be exact.”

Joe: “Yes sir. Born and raised.”

Captain Tennyson: “Your Uncle Sam raised you, I’m guessin’?”

Joe: “Yes sir.”

Captain Tennyson: “Good stocks come from there, I should know– I myself call Farmsville home. Got any other family back in Farmsville, Jeralds?”

Joe: “Apart from my Uncle? Uh, no. He passed two years back and that uh– that kinda motivated me to finally become a police officer.”

Captain Tennyson: “Sorry to hear that, son. He was an American hero, your uncle.”

Joe nodded and thanked the captain for his sentiment.

Captain Tennyson: “Alright, Jeralds. Tell me, what motivated ya, what’s the actual reason why you want to become a police officer?”

Captain Tennyson got a bit close to Joe, leaning against his desk, looking into Joe’s eyes.

Joe: “My uncle, of course. He served this great country without question and I want to follow in his footsteps. I want to protect this great nation and everyone in it anyway I can, sir.”

The captain leaned back on his chair, rubbing his fingers through his mustache. He then leaned forward and reached his hand out to Joe. With a smile, Captain Tennyson said; “Welcome to the Townsville Police Force, Major.” Joe smiled and eagerly shook the captain’s hand. The captain escorted Joe out of his office and called out to the other officers in the precinct.

Captain Tennyson: “LISTEN UP, WE GOT A NEW OFFICER IN THE FORCE!!! HIS NAME’S JOE JERALDS, MAKE ‘EM FEEL WELCOME, GOT IT?!!”

The officers responded; “YES, SIR!!!”

Captain Tennyson: “Officer Perez, get over here!”

Officer Perez: “On my way!”

Officer Perez approached the captain and Joe, congratulating the latter for his achievement; “I know I said this before but welcome to the force, man!”

Captain Tennyson: “Perez, show him to– Where’s Brickowski?”

Officer Perez cleared his throat and pointed to the officer in question, the same officer that was sleeping at his desk. The captain sighed.

Captain Tennyson: “Perez, get back to what you were doin’... I got it.”

Officer Perez gave the captain a salute and responded; “Yes, sir.” Perez then told Joe; “Good to have ya, Major.” before he walked off. The captain then led Joe over to the sleeping officer; a middle aged man, his uniform barely fitting his rotund body, he had freckles on his bald head and a bushy mustache. On his desk was a half drunk bottle of root beer to his left and an empty box of donuts to his right.

Captain Tennyson: “OFFICER BRICKOWSKI!!!”

Officer Brickowski was awakened instantly, looking around from being in a state of alertness. After calming down, Officer Brickowski looked up and saw the captain looking down at him, drool sliding down Brickowski’s lower lip. Officer Brickowski wiped away the drool before sitting up in his chair.

Officer Brickowski: “Wha–?! Oh, he– hey, Captain. Hm, who’s the kid?”

Joe: “I’m 24, I’m not a kid .”

Officer Brickowski: “That’s a kid to me.”

Captain Tennyson: “Shut up, Brickowski.”

Officer Brickowski: “Uh, sorry, sir. Who's the rookie?”

Captain Tennyson: “Officer Mike Brickowski, this is Officer Jeralds and he is your new partner.”

Joe: “Nice to meet you.”

Officer Brickowski: “Mhm.”

Captain Tennyson: “Now that you two are all acquainted, get your asses out of this station and run your beat.”

Joe: “Oh, a beat. Ok, alright. I’m ready, sir.”

Captain Tennyson: “Good. Brickowski, you could learn a few things from him.”

Captain Tennyson nodded at Joe but grimaced at Brickowski before going back to his office. Joe and Brickowski then shared a look and before Joe could say a word, Brickowski cut in to say; “C’mon, kid.” as he walked away. Joe shook his head and followed after his partner. Joe and Brickowski then entered the latter’s assigned squad car. Officer Brickowski was searching for his keys when he noticed that Joe was wiping down the place with a cloth he sprayed with sanitiser.

Officer Brickowski: “The heck are ya doin’?”

Joe: “Just wiping down the place, everything’s got to be neat.”

Brickowski gave Joe a look of confusion and slight frustration.

Joe: “Sorry, I had a strict upbringing.”

Officer Brickowski: “Yea yea.”

Brickowski started the car and then drove out of the precinct. Strolling through the streets of the town, Joe, wanting to snuff out the silence between them, initiated some small talk.

Joe: “So, how long have you been in the force?”

Officer Brickowski: “Since it was created ten years ago.”

Joe was a bit confused, seeing as Brickowski was brandishing some grey hair within the blonde he had left and wrinkles around the eyes. Brickowski noticed that Joe was scanning his physical features and grimaced.

Officer Brickowski: “Yea, I’m older than the other officers! What of it?! There wasn’t a police station here when I was younger, alright?! Better yet, I’m not even that old. I’m only 43!”

Joe held up his hands in surrender and said; “Hey, I understand.”

Joe: “So you said that this police force was relatively new?”

Officer Brickowski: “Mhm. You should’ve seen this place before it, a real hellhole. The police scared away the riff-raff. That’s why this force was made and why I joined, to take care of this place.”

Joe smiled.

Joe: “We have something in common, Officer Brickowski.”

Officer Brickowski: “Mhm.”

They pulled up on a curb, exiting the squad car after Officer Brickowski placed it in park. After stepping out of the car, ready to walk the beat, Joe asked Brickowski if he could elaborate on what Townsville was like before.

Officer Brickowski: “A real Question Mark, ain’t ya?”

Joe: “What?”

Brickowski sighed.

Officer Brickowski: “I guess I can tell ya a tale. After that explosion seven years ago in that European country–.”

Joe: “Abysus.”

Officer Brickowski: “Yea, that place. …The world changed after that day… and so did here. Certain people just started poppin’ up and going on a rampage– and it was so random too, it could anyone at anytime. Day or night.”

Joe: “Rampage?”

Officer Brickowski pointed at a store and asked; “See that store, the J. Soup and Broth L. store?” and Joe nodded.

Officer Brickowski: “That store was here from when this town was just a settlement and it has been through the ringer ! When these people were out and about, that place was wrecked over and over again… people were…”

Joe: “...Brickowski?”

Officer Brickowski: “Uh… yea. Every rampage would ruin that place– but only that, all you see before you was destroyed on repeat!”

Joe: “Oh man, I’m so sorry.”

Officer Brickowski: “...Yea. If it wasn’t for Mayor Hartfield putting the force together, getting help from the rich people that move into this town, it would’ve gotten worse.”

Joe: “Your Mayor was from Tennessee, right? Mayor Cornelius Hartfield?”

Officer Brickowski: “What’re you, an encyclopedia?”

Joe: “Knowledge is power, Brickowski.”

Officer Brickowski: “Whatever. Anyway, he really came in and helped clean up this town. You wouldn’t think that a man who was just a corn farmer would put this town in the right direction but here we are. Now those same rich folk started sprucing up the place, constructing the buildings you see now– bringing in jobs… it's a great sight.”

Joe: “And these ‘certain people’ ?”

Officer Brickowski: “What about them?”

Joe: “What happened to them?”

Officer Brickowski: “They come around from time to time but that’s why we’re here. To keep the bad apples out.”

Joe: “Yea, that’s we’re here. To keep people safe.”

Officer Brickowski: “Sure are.”

The two then went on to walk their beat, going around either offering people directions whether they be native or otherwise or helping the town’s folk with small issues. Those small issues included directing traffic, welfare checks and even recusing Jebedissa Bravo’s cat from a tree, to name a few. Joe and Brickowski were walking down Yodelinda Valley Lane, the former of the two being vigilant, scanning for trouble, when they heard the sudden screams of a woman. Looking down the street, they saw a woman on the ground and a man running away with what appeared to be her purse.

Joe: “Purse snatcher, I got it!”

Joe ran off while Brickowski seemingly went over to the woman that fell to the ground. Joe moved swiftly through the crowd while still maintaining his speed while the purse snatcher was gradually losing speed with the more people he ended up bumping into. It was extremely apparent that Joe was gaining on the perp, the criminal looked back and was shocked that Joe was closing the gap. The purse snatcher was running towards an alleyway, ready to turn down it when a police car suddenly shot out of it, obstructing the perp’s path. This gave Joe the opportunity to tackle the criminal to the ground, knocking the wind from the man’s sails. Joe forced the man over on his stomach after getting the purse from him, Joe began cuffing the man. The perp was a large man with stubble and wearing worn out clothing, a pair of jeans and a shirt with black and white stripes. After clasping the cuffs around the man’s wrists, prompting the criminal to groan from the discomfort, Joe looked ahead at the police car that blocked the perp’s way. Joe realised that it was Brickowski’s squad car, looking through the front passenger window to see the officer at the wheel.

Joe: “What’re you doing here?! Why aren’t you with the victim?!”

Officer Brickowski: “You’re welcome, rookie!”

Back at the scene of the crime, more officers had arrived, with Officer Perez and another officer putting the perp into their squad car. Officer Perez said sarcastically; “Watch your head.” as he shoved the criminal into the back of the squad car.

Officer Perez: “Probably nothing in there to begin with.”

Officer Perez noticed Joe and Brickowski and approached the duo to congratulate them on their arrest.

Officer Perez: “Congrats, fellas!”

Joe: “It was no problem, really.”

Officer Perez: “Are you kidding? Joe, we’ve been looking for this guy for a month now. Duke Monday is a piece of work; grand larceny, grand theft auto and the list continues– but only in terms of stealing stuff.”

Officer Brickowski: “Looks like he finally ran outta funds so he decided to do a quick snag-and-grab to keep himself a float.”

Officer Perez: “Brickowski, are you sure you helped out?”

Officer Brickowski: “I told you, I blocked his path so the rookie here could tackle him!”

Joe said to himself; “You probably should have been with the victim since I had it.”

Officer Perez: “The day you get a new partner, you actually get back to doing some actual work.”

Officer Brickowski: “Can it, Perez!”

Officer Perez laughed.

Officer Perez left with the words; “Be careful, Mike or the rookie here might take your job!” Brickowski mumbled to himself as he glared at Joe; “That’ll be the day.”

Officer Brickowski: “Alright, what the heck was that back there?!”

Joe: “I’m sorry that I lost my cool back there but I did tell you that I had the situation under control . You needed to be with the victim, not neglect them!”

Officer Brickowski: “Hey, if it wasn't for me, the perp would’ve got away!”

Joe: “No, he wouldn’t have.”

Officer Brickowski: “ Real sure of yourself, huh?”

Joe: “I am. I have to be. I want to protect this town and its people– heck, the whole country. So there is no place for doubt or unassurance. So please, when I say that I have the situation under control, believe me.”

Officer Brickowski: “Listen, kid–.”

Joe: “For the last time, I am not a kid! I am an officer, just like you!”

Brickowski was taken aback by Joe’s gusto but he quelled his anger before he ended up saying something potentially out of line. Officer Brickowski nodded, then said; “Alright… sure.” Joe let out a breath to collect himself.

Joe: “Now, excuse me.”

Joe then walked off with Brickowski grimacing at him the entire time. Joe went over to the young woman who was robbed, approaching her after she was finished talking with a fellow police officer.

Joe: “Good evening, Ms…”

Hildie: “Hildie.”

Hildie brandished her bright pink leather purse and said; “And you’re the officer that retrieved my purse, right?”

Joe: “That’s right.”

Hildie was a woman of fair complexion with long brown hair, partially hidden but a yellow hat with a white ribbon on it. Her outfit otherwise consisted of a light blue dress, white fingerless gloves, neckwear and a dark blue buttoned top held by a belt with a golden buckle.

Hildie: “Thank you for help, Mr. Officer. May I ask your name?”

Joe: “Officer Joe, ma’am and there’s no need to thank me. I am just doing my duty.”

Hildie: “Well, Officer Joe…”

Hildie walked up and planted a kiss on Joe’s left cheek and concluded; “I will thank you anyway.” The woman smiled then strolled off and Joe was holding his left cheek as he watched her walk away, a giddy smile on his face. Joe walked back over to the squad car where Brickowski was waiting for him, behind the wheel. Joe got into the car and then announced; “Alright, let’s get back on that beat. We have more work to do.”

Officer Brickowski: “...She kissed you didn’t she?”

Joe: “Is it that obvious?”

Officer Brickowski groaned as he started the car and then drove off. Joe and Officer Brickowski went around the town, continuing their work to protect and serve until the sun went down. The two then returned to the precinct where they were both cheered upon entry. Officer Brickowski cracked a smile as he shared in the cheers but that smile was quickly wiped away when the officers approached Joe in particular. HBrickowski ended up being crowded by the officers, lost in the shuffle.

Officer Perez: “24 arrests. I can’t believe that Brickowski is a part of that equation.”

Joe jokingly declared; “More or less.” and the officer’s laughed while Officer Brickowski glared at Joe from the crowd. The officers were chanting Joe’s nickname on repeat; “MAJOR!!!” until Captain Tennyson came out of his office, sending the officers back to their posts with his commanding voice.

Captain Tennyson: “Alright, alright! What’s with all the ruckus?!”

Officer Perez: “It was just a little party, Captain. We’ll invite you next time, alright?”

Captain Tennyson glared at Perez with Perez holding up his hands in surrender. Captain Tennyson shook his head then turned to go back into his office but before he did, he called out to Joe and Brickowski.

Captain Tennyson: “You two did great today… but the work’s not done. Clap it up for a minute and then get back to it, understand?”

All the officers replied with a roaring; “Yes, sir! ” except for Brickowski who grumbled his response, still glaring at Joe. Day turned to night and all the officers were now off the clock, going back to their homes. Joe was leaving the station, going down the steps when he heard his name called from a distance; “ Joe!” Joe looked ahead and saw Perez at the foot of the steps, standing by his personal vehicle.

Joe: “Perez, what’s up?”

Perez: “Going straight home?”

Joe: “Yea and since I’m walking, I gotta get going.”

Perez: “Tell ya what, you and I get a drink at the Varmints Bar and I give ya a lift home.”

Joe: “Sure, sounds good.”

Perez: “Great, hop on in.”

The two got into the car with Perez of course taking the wheel.

Joe: “Oh, do you mind if I wipe my seat down?”

Perez: “Oh, Brickowski mentioned that. Go ahead, I guess.”

As Joe was wiping down his seat using a bottle sanitizer and a white cloth, he asked; “Really, he told you? Why?”

Perez: “He was bad-mouthing you.”

Joe chuckled.

Joe: “That guy really doesn’t like me, huh?”

Perez: “Eh, he doesn’t like anyone much.”

After Joe was finished sanitising his area, Perez asked; “You ready, everything all cleaned over there?” Joe chuckled and then responded; “Yea. I’m sorry about this.”

Perez: “No worries, man. Now I know who to call up when my car needs a washing.”

The two laughed as Perez started the car, then they were off. Perez and Joe went over to the Varmints Bar to unwind after work. Stepping inside, the interior was filled with other men that also visited the bar to decompress after a hard day's work. They were all sitting on bar stools, indulging in the root beer they were being served by Pesos Bill. Pesos Bill was the owner and bartender of the Varmints Bar; he was a large bald man who had a big red nose and a thinning beard of red that matched his eyebrows. He wore a pale white shirt, khaki pants and a slightly messy apron.

Perez: “Pesos! How ya doin’?!”

Pesos Bill: “Eyy, Perez! What happened to Enguells?! Got a new partner or somethin’?!”

Perez: “Nah nah. This is Joe, the newest officer of the TPD.”

Joe: “Nice to meet you, Mr. Bill.”

Pesos Bill: “No need to be so formal, Joey! Get comfortable and I’ll bring you two some drinks!”

Joe: “Thank you for having me.”

Pesos Bill: “No problem.”

Pesos then went for the root beer while Perez and Joe sat at the end of the bar, on two bar stools. At the same time, Joe noticed that Pesos Bill was barefoot, turning to Perez with a confused look on his face.

Perez: “I know. He’s a bit odd but he’s good people.”

Joe: “Good people. They come in all shapes and sizes.”

Perez: “Ain’t that the truth.”

Pesos Bill grabbed two mugs of root beer and slid them toward the duo with them catching the mugs. Perez then raised his mug and proposed a toast; “To 24– no, you got two more so 26 arrests.” Joe chuckled as he raised his own mug.

Joe: “To progress.”

Perez nodded and then the two clinked their mugs before they took a drink of their root beer.

Joe: “Speaking of Brickowski, I get the feeling that he doesn’t like me very much.”

Perez: “He probably doesn’t but don’t pay him attention.”

Joe: “Kinda hard since he’s my partner.”

Perez took a drink of his root beer, then replied; “Good point.”

Joe: “Then again, I wasn’t very nice either. I kinda got into an argument with him earlier today. I told him to take care of the victim while I chased the assailant but he helped me out instead.”

Perez: “And you didn’t want him to?“

Joe shrugged.

Perez: “Listen, yea, he should’ve tended to the victim. But I mean, he helped you out.”

Joe: “I know, it’s just that I knew that I could’ve handled it.”

Perez: “You’re part of a police force , Joe.”

Joe: “You’re right. I just tend to get ahead of myself, ya know.”

Perez: “I hear ya.”

Joe took a swing of his root beer.

Perez: “Brickowski wasn’t always the big dumb oaf he is now.”

Joe: “Really? What was he a nice guy before?”

Perez: “Yep, he used to have a partner too before he started his solo act.”

Joe: “Really?”

Perez: “Mhm. Officer Jenyx, he was a good guy but he eventually transferred to another developing town. I think it’s called Anytown.”

Joe: “I’ve heard of that place. Outside the Pokey Oaks County? Why move so far?”

Perez: “Brickowski happened, he changed. He had a family once, but then that ended.”

Joe: “What happened?”

Perez: “I don’t know, he doesn’t talk about it but it was rough. He wasn’t the same person since and that guy he turned into drove Jenyx away.”

Joe contemplated on the information he was told as he took another drink of his root beer. Several mugs of root beer later, Joe and Perez eventually left the Varmints Bar and got into the latter’s car.

Perez: “So, where ya headed?”

Joe: “The new place– I think it’s called Muscular Arms.”

Perez: “Oh, the new apartment. I know where that is.”

The two were driving down the streets of Townsville, cars whizzing past them as they continued conversation.

Perez: “Hey Major, what made ya want to be a cop?”

Joe: “I want to help anyone and everyone, anyway I can.”

Perez: “You’re really about this ‘helping everyone’ stuff, huh? I’m not knocking it, it’s just that you’re so– adamant , ya know?”

Joe: “Well, you’d have to thank my uncle for that.”

Perez: “Uncle Sam, right?”

Joe: “Yep. He was very strict; I woke up early, was delegated chores and responsibilities. He never allowed me to stray from my purpose, he gave me discipline. Sure, I’m just a cop now so I’m not necessarily helping ‘everyone’ but one day… I will.”

Perez: “Alright, confident. I respect it.”

Joe: “Of course. I have a plan in order; join the force, work my way up to captain, then commissioner and then it’s off to the military.”

Perez: “So you can be an actual major.”

The two chuckled.

Perez: “That’s gonna take a while, though man. Years, in fact.”

Joe: “I just have to work hard at it then.”

Perez: “He mentioned this too, ya know? When Brickowski was bad-mouthing you, he mentioned your mission statement. Not in so many kind words, though. Cuz ya know, bad mouthing .”

Joe: “Brickowski said that ‘I’m sure of myself’ but you have to be in this line of work. There’s no place for doubt or anything like that. Not if you want to be great and that’s where I’m heading.”

Perez: “Well, I’m rooting for ya, Major.”

Joe: “Thank you, Perez.”

They eventually pulled up at the Muscular Arms apartment building and Perez gestured to it, saying; “Welp, this is it.” The apartment building was made of brick and was the current tallest point in the town. On top of the building were the words “Muscular Arms”, shining in neon red, contrasting the night sky.

Joe: “Muscular Arms.”

Perez:”Yep. This building is a part of the development the town’s going through. Funded by one of the aristocrats that live here. His name’s Moe Bucks but I heard he changed his name to Morbucks. Classy.”

Joe: “Well, this is now my home. Thanks for the lift, Perez. And for the drinks, it was fun.”

Perez: “No problem, Major. Goodnight.”

Joe told Perez goodnight before he exited the car. Joe climbed the four steps of concrete it took to get to the apartment front door. After entering he went inside the elevator that took him to his floor where arrived at his room; apartment 105. Joe stepped inside his room, one already furnished along with having a radio.

Joe: “I suppose the next step is gonna be getting a TV but for now, I better wipe this place down.”

On the outskirts of Townsville, within a secluded woodland, a man was on his knees gasping for air. He was battered and bruised and spitting out red. The man’s name was Troy Herington III, one of Townsville’s aristocrats. He was an elderly man that was surprisingly fit for his age with a broad chin and wide shoulders that accompanied his large stature. He was stripped of his clothing, left in his underwear and what was left of his dignity. He was struggling on the ground when a sudden pain struck Troy in his side, forcing him to keel over, gripping into the dirt.

Troy Herignton III: “I’m… sorry.”

Standing over Troy was a tall and slender inhuman-looking man wearing a full black bodysuit with black boots. His skin was completely white and along with his yellow eyes that glowed in the dark, the man looked somewhat alien. However, his most notable feature was his robotic arm that resembled a gauntlet and because of his metal arm, he was given the name “Claw”.

Claw: “Why’re you apologising? Is it because you failed me or is it because you feel guilty.”

Troy Herignton III: “...I…”

Claw gestured to three men behind him; Jack, Crow and Wreck of Claw’s Wrecking Crew. They were dressed in construction gear; a white shirt under a blue overall, brown safety boots, gloves and yellow hardhats. The man named Jack got his name on the account of him brandishing a jackhammer on his hip; The other man named Crow carried two long crowbars on his back; and Wreck had a metal ball connected to a chain that he wore as a belt, using it as a flail. All three men also appeared somewhat inhuman as two of their bottom teeth jutted out of their mouths like tusks.

Jack: “You cost Mr. Claw a pretty expensive loss, Troy.”

The three men were slowly encroaching upon Troy.

Troy Herington III: “Wait! …Wait!”

Claw gestured to his men, prompting them to stay where they were. Claw then approached the beaten man, kneeling down to meet his eyes.

Claw: “You are one of three aristocrats that live in Townsville. Morbucks is on the ‘righteous path’ , focusing on the town’s development, never dipping his hands into my world. Mr. Anthropist is being… distant– I need to give him a call later. So that only leaves you , Mr. Herington. I hate to admit it but I can’t afford to lose any more of my connections to that town. After all, there were four of you at first and I am sure you don’t want it to be two, right Mr. Herington?”

Troy Herington III: “I… I don’t.”

Claw: “Good. Now, make sure a blunder such as this never happens again.”

Troy Herington III: “I won’t… I won’t. I'll get it back for you.”

Claw: “Initiative. I like that, Mr. Herington.”

Claw stood back up, turning his back to the beaten man.

Claw: “Get to it, then.”

Claw and his Wrecking Crew then walked off but not before Wreck threw Troy’s clothes at him. Claw got in his silver limo along with Jack and Crow while Wreck took the driver’s seat.

(Pokey Oaks County, The Town of Citiesville, Night). Claw was driven back to his home which was a large mansion in the heart of Townsville’s sister town Citiesville. Claw stepped out of his limo and entered his home, immediately heading into his office, sitting around his desk. Claw spun his leather chair around, turning his back to his desk to look at the wall behind him. It was decorated with photos of individuals, newspaper articles and notes that were connected with red string. Claw reached behind him and turned on his radio and a blast of jazz music quickly snuffed out the silence. He then cut himself a cigar and lit it, enjoying its fumes and some tunes as he stared at the wall before him. However, it didn’t take long until there was eventually a knock on the door that momentarily cut through the Claw’s music.

Dialogue:

Claw: “...Enter.”

Jack entered the room, gently and quietly opening and closing the door behind him. Jack stood quietly at the door and waited for Claw to acknowledge him.

Claw: “Speak.”

Jack: “Mr. Claw, Phil’s still avoidin’ us. He’s gung ho on turnin’ over a new leaf.”

Claw: “I see.”

Claw’s eyes went to a photo of a man of shorter stature that was dressed in a black suit and a top hat with puffy red cheeks and mustache.

Claw: “It seems that Mr. Phil Anthropist had finally grown a conscience, after all these years of getting his hands dirty. The smell of the dark underbelly of crime that he once inhabited… finally chased him off.”

Jack: “What’s the next move, Mr. Claw?”

Claw: “What’s next? What next is we remind him who he’s in allegiance to.”

Claw got up, setting down his cigar into his ashtray and approached the wall. He stood before the front page of the newspaper “The Townsville Tribune” which read; “A Bridge Between Two: Helen Troy on her path to creating a connection between two towns” .

Claw: “Mr. Anthropist was very vocal on his funding for Ms. Troy’s new toy, this Sonitrain. Its grand unveiling will be in a week.”

Jack: “Yea, it seems like a cool idea.”

Claw: “Oh, it is. But, it will have to be sacrificed…”

Claw placed his metal hand on the newspaper article, looked at Jack and concluded; “We’re going to show our friend Phil that he cannot escape this life.”

Jack: “ Oohh , we’re going to wreck his train, eh?”

Claw: “ Yes , Jack. We’re going to wreck the train. Your wordplay was redundant.”

Jack: “You're right.”

Claw: “Get out, Jack.”

Jack quickly responded; “Right.” before leaving through the door. However, he returned just as quickly, peeking his head through the door and saying; “Oop, one more thing, Mr. Claw.” Claw sighed.

Claw: “What is it, Jack?”

Jack: “You heard about the–?”

Claw: “The new addition to the Townsville Police Department? Yes Jack, I have heard and I don’t care.”

Jack: “Really? I mean, he just booked Duke–.”

Claw: “Happenstance. Right place, right time. Mr. Duke Monday wasn’t a big deal anyway.”

Jack: “What about the 24– no, 26 lockups in one dang day?”

Claw: “Somewhat impressive, leaning towards mediocre. I don’t care about some police officer from Farmsville , Jack.”

Jack: “Well, ya know a lot about ‘em even though ya say you don’t care.”

Claw: “Because knowledge is power, Jack. You think this empire only falls onto the lap of the lucky? The more you learn, the powerful you become– I already explained this to you and the others on orientation day, Jack.”

Jack: “Right again, Mr. Claw. Imma go now.”

Claw: “ Please .”

Jack then left, softly closing the door behind him. Claw then sat back in his chair, took back up his cigar and went back to enjoying the sound of jazz music.

Five Days Later

(Pokey Oaks County, The Town of Townsville, Day). Joe was awoken by the morning sun, getting out of bed and starting his day. Joe did one hundred pushups right out of bed, made himself a healthy meal then capped his morning routine off with a 10 mile jog. He took a shower, changed into his police uniform and then it was off to work. Joe rode his bicycle to work, parking around back before stepping inside the precinct where he saw Officer Perez was surrounded by other officers, reading that morning’s Townsville Tribune issue.

Dialogue:

Officer Perez: “Morning Major, get over here!”

Joe: “Morning fellas, what’s the word?”

Officer Perez: “Another article written about us– well, mainly about you.”

Perez took up the newspaper and read aloud; “ ‘56 total arrests in five days’ !”

Joe: “Wow, I thought I was the only one counting.”

Officer Perez pulled Joe in and commented; “Listen to this guy, eh? You feeling the glory yet, Major?”

Joe: “Aw, c’mon, Perez. I don’t do this for the glory– you know that.”

Officer Brickowski: “When are ya gonna stop with the act, rookie?”

Joe: “When are you gonna call me by my name , Brickowski ?”

The surrounding officers' voices synced up, saying; “ Ooohh .” Officer Brickowski looked around, all of his fellow officers’ eyes staring back at him.

Officer Brickowski: “...Whatever.”

Officer Brickowski grimaced at the officers and walked off.

Officer Perez: “Remember, don’t worry about him, alright. His bark is worse than his bite. I don’t even think he bites.”

Joe: “Yea I know… I just hope you’re right.”

Officer Perez: “Tell ya what, why don’t we get some root beer after work?”

Joe: “Yea, that would be nice.”

The captain came out of his office and called out to two officers with a commanding voice.

Captain Tennyson: “White! Pepper! There was a call on Yodelinda!”

Officer White was an officer with fair skin, pitch black hair and who wore glasses as he was nearsighted. While Officer Pepper had hot red skin, hence his name which made his snow white hair and mustache stuck out. His white hair being a point of inquisition since he’s only in his mid twenties.

Officer White: “Is it Mrs. Bravo again, sir?”

Captain Tennyson: “You win the bingo, White. Jebidessa said that someone trespassed on her property. A ‘weird individual’ . You get the drill, not get going!”

Joe: “You need a third, guys?!”

Officer Pepper: “It’s fine, Major. We got this.”

Captain Tennyson: “There are more officers in the station, Jeralds. In the meantime, you have a beat to run.”

Joe: “Right, sir.”

Captain Tennyson then went back inside his office while Officer White and Pepper went to leave the station. Joe quickly caught up to the two officers and asked; “Hey, what did the captain mean by ‘weird individuals’ ?”

Officer Pepper: “Might be one of those , ya know? Nothing we can’t handle.”

Joe was confused but he answered; “Yea, ‘one of those’ .” under the guise of understanding. The officers then left, Joe, watching them walk through the door, the term going through his mind.

Joe: “...One of those.”

The memory of Brickowski telling Joe about “certain people” then popped into his head, wondering if they were related.

Joe: “Certain… people.”

At the same time, there was a man lying in wait outside the precinct.

(The Anthropists Residence, Day). Elsewhere in Townsville was the residence of one of the town's aristocrats Phil Anthropist, a massive three story mansion painted a marigold yellow with a big yard that had a running fountain in the centre. By the front gates, two of Phil’s guards saw a silver limo pulling up and stopped it a few inches from the gate. Meanwhile, inside the house, Phil had just made himself a cup of tea when he heard loud banging noises outside his home. He quickly placed down his cup and ran over to one of the mansion’s many windows to find the source, particularly the window situated over the kitchen sink. Phil saw the same silver car pulling into his yard, through his front gates that were now destroyed while the two guards were laying on the ground.

Dialogue:

Phil: “Oh no.”

Phil made a break for the panic room underneath his house but when running through the kitchen, into his living room, he saw Claw standing by one of the windows. The lanky man’s presence stunned Phil stiff.

Phil: “Oh, Cla–.”

Claw: “I’m not here to intimidate you, Mr. Anthropist.”

Claw turned to Phil and told him; “So calm down, take a seat.” Shaking, Phil did as asked, sitting down in his recliner chair.

Claw: “I’m here to deliver a message.”

Phil cleared his throat, trying to stifle the fear he still felt.

Phil: “A message?”

Claw: “That’s right. I understand that you want to do good , do right by the people of this town. You may want to forget all the things you did for me… but I won’t.”

Phil: “I–.”

Claw: “I wasn’t finished speaking, Mr. Anthropist. That’s quite rude of you.”

Phil: “...Sorry, continue.”

Claw: “Thank you. Now, I came here to tell you that I am not going to blackmail you into coming back into the fold by threatening to tell the people of your true nature. I’m not going to kidnap your family members or even break every bone in your body.”

Phil’s body tightened from Claw’s hypothetical threats but he still managed to utter; “What… family? They left me… remember?”

Claw: “Good point.”

Claw noticed that Phil’s body was still shaking and approached him.

Claw: “Come now, Mr. Anthropist. I told you that you could relax, didn't I?”

Claw paced back to the window, his hands at his back. He started playing with the curtain, gently running his metal hand through it.

Claw: “Now, as for that message I came to deliver.”

Phil: “Wha– what is it?”

Claw: “That fancy new train you’re funding– to help that woman bridge the gap between Townsville and Citiesville. I will take that from you.”

Claw gripped onto the curtain tight as he looked Phil’s way, the stout man quaking in his socks.

Claw: “ That is my plan for you, Mr. Anthropist. I will take every good deed you’ve done or will ever do for this town away from you. I will force you to remember– I will force you to live with the fact that once upon a time… you were scum .”

Phil swallowed a giant spit of anxiety and fear, his body running with sweat. Claw stepped away from the curtain, the area he tugged on now being frilled.

Claw: “I will be seeing you, Phil .”

Claw then walked out of the room, leaving the house. Phil got up from his chair but he was afraid to move another inch, finally breathing again after hearing the engine of Claw’s silver limo, signalling that Claw had left. Phil collapsed to his knees, hyperventilating as he stared up at the ceiling.

Phil: “Please… forgive me.”

(The Townsville Police Department, Interior). Back at the Townsville precinct, Duke Monday was in lockup, located below the police station’s lobby, inside of a lonely cell. Officer Perez and his partner, Officer Enguells, went downstairs to the lockup. Officer Enguells had a lean physique but with broad shoulders and a goatee. They arrived at the hallway of cells, walking past each one, whether they were occupied or not until they reached the criminal Duke Monday himself.

Dialogue:

Officer Enguells: “Morning, Duke .”

Duke Monday: “What? Ya miss me or sumthin’?”

Officer Perez: “Not in the slightest, Monday. We’re shipping you out today, remember? You’re going to prison.”

Officer Enguells approached the bars of Duke’s cell, gripping onto two of the bars.

Officer Enguells: “You’re going to jail for a long time, Monday. And guess what… nobody’s gonna miss ya.”

Duke Monday: “...Dats the way I like it.”

Officer Perez chuckled lightly then he and Officer Enguells left. At the same time, while Joe was dealing with paperwork, a suspicious man walked into the police station lobby. The same man that was watching from outside. He had on a trench coat that failed to hide his rotund physique, had a double chin and was completely bald with red puffy cheeks. He stood a few feet from the front door, just waiting and when another police officer walked past him, he quickly struck them in the head and after they fell to the floor, he took the officer’s gun. He projected his voice as he pointed the gun forward; “WHERE IS HE?!!” All of the officers immediately pointed their guns at the man, barking at him to drop his gun. Officer Perez and his partner arrived back in the lobby, instantly taking out their gun after seeing the situation that was going down.

Officer Perez: “What the– Dynamite Dog?!”

Officer Brickowski glanced over to Joe and assuming he was uninformed about Dynamite Dog, Brickowski revealed information on the criminal. Or at least, he attempted to as he was immediately cut off by Joe.

Joe: “He’s Duke Monday’s partner in crime, I know! I have been researching, Brickowski.”

Brickowski groaned from frustration.

Joe: “They’ve been running together for six years now and in Dynamite Dog’s case…”

As if he was on queue, Dynamite Dog opened up his trench coat and revealed that he had a homemade bomb strapped to his chest.

Joe: “He’s an explosives expert, privy in building his own bombs.”

Dynamite Dog: “WHERE DO YA COPPAHS GOT HIM?!! WHERE’S DUKE?!!”

The captain then entered the lobby from his office, yelling; “Hey!” which got the criminal’s attention.

Captain Tennyson: “Hey… We got your buddy, he’s down in lockup. You didn’t need to come in here with a bomb strapped up, you could’ve called– talked this out.”

The captain was slowly approaching the manic man.

Dynamite Dog: “You’re not sending Duke to jail! Do you hear me?!”

Captain Tennyson: “Well, that’s not up to you–.”

Dynamite Dog: “Your ass!”

Officer Perez: “What?”

Dynamite Dog: “Shut up!”

Officer Perez: “I didn’t even say anything.”

Captain Tennyson: “There’s no way out of this. You know that, right? You came into the precinct with a bomb strapped to your chest like that was a real plan. Sure, we won’t shoot you or we’ll all go up in flames but after you get back your pal… then what? You just walk out of here? You know we can’t let that happen. We wouldn’t even give you Duke to start with.”

The captain kept creeping closer and ever so slowly towards Dynamite Dog. Dynamite Dog finally realised what the captain was doing and barked; “No, get away from me!”

Captain Tennyson: “Alright, alright… I’ll back off. I’m stepping…”

The captain was faking as since he was close enough to the perp, Captain Tennyson lunged at Dynamite Dog but the man readied his aim and was preparing to fire. Luckily, Joe caught on and quickly jumped to the captain’s aid, being closer to him than the other officers. Joe pushed the captain out of the way with Captain Tennyson only thankfully getting grazed across the shoulder before they both fell to the ground. In response, the other officers chambered their bullets, ready to fire when Captain Tennyson quickly ordered; “NO!!! DON’T SHOOT, DAMMIT!!!”

Dynamite Dog: “Give me Duke, now !”

Joe: “We won’t give you Duke! Just put the gun down!”

Dynamite Dog: “Shut up! Shut up!”

Captain Tennyson: “Jeralds!”

Even with a gun aimed at him, Joe stood up and stared down the criminal that stood before him with a strong and unwavering resolve that was shown through his eyes.

Dynamite Dog: “Wha– what’re you doing? I got a gun to your head, man! Get back!”

Joe: “I. Don’t. Care. I’m not gonna cower to some punk slinging around a gun to get what he wants. I’m on a mission to protect people and you won’t– no, you can’t stop me. I won’t allow it.”

Dynamite Dog was beginning to be overwhelmed by Joe’s vigour; sweat was running down his face and one could hear the cackling from his knees shaking intensely. He tried to find the words to rebut Joe but they couldn’t come. His hand was weakening, slowly lowering and noticing that Brickowski's emotions got the better of him. Fed up, he took aim at Dynamite Dog and fired, hitting the man in his shoulder, sending him to the ground.

Captain Tennyson: “Dammit, Brickowski!”

Officer Brickowski: “What?! I got him!”

Joe quickly rushed over to Dynamite Dog, checking on both his wound and the bomb; getting a negative realisation for the latter.

Officer Perez: “What’s that ticking?”

Joe: “The countdown started!”

Dynamite Dog; “I– I fell on– Ah! On the trigger!”

Officer Perez helped the captain on his feet and Captain Tennyson then asked; “Can you stop it?!”

Dynamite Dog: “Ah! No, I can’t! It’s gonna blow! Ah!”

Joe: “...No, it’s not. Not in here, at least.”

Officer Brickowski: “What’re you gonna go?!”

Joe: “I’m gonna try not to make things worse.”

Brickowski receded a bit from the jab. Joe grabbed the bomb, gently taking it off Dynamite Dog’s body before quickly running out of the precinct. Joe burst through the doors with the bomb in hand and shouted; “MAKE WAY!!! MAKE WAY!!! THERE’S A BOMB!!! ” Everyone immediately scattered for safety, complete pandemonium. However, to Joe, everything seemed slowed. Joe felt like he had all the time in the world, like that split second suddenly became an eternity. Although, that was only metaphorically as when he looked down at the bomb, the clock was still ticking just very slowly so Joe had to act quickly. Joe looked to the skies and with all his might, he flung the bomb as high as he could into the air and to his surprise, the bomb indeed rocketed skywards and exploded within the clouds above. The explosion momentarily blanketed the sky’s bright blue with an orange fire of potential destruction. For a moment the town’s square was completely quiet until everyone began cheering for the saviour Joseph Jeralds but they were chanting his given name “Major” . Joe himself, as the cheers of the gracious town’s folk resonated around him, was frozen stiff, lost in his own mind as he tried to process what he had just happened. He just threw a bomb clear into the sky like it was a baseball or even a paperweight, a feat that everyone was currently ignoring because they were relishing in the relief that their lives were still intact. The woman from his first day on the job, the woman named Hildie, was present, approaching Joe and planting another kiss on his left cheek.

Hildie: “Another thank you, this time from all of us.”

Joe: “Just… doing my duty.”

After restoring the peace in the town’s square, cleaning up any damages and escorting Dynamite Dog into a cell next to his partner Duke Monday, the Townsville Police were back to business. Joe was by his desk, surrounded by the other officers that were singing his praises.

Officer Pepper: “Seriously Major, how did you throw the bomb so far up?”

Joe: “I don’t know, Pepper. Adrenaline maybe?”

Officer Perez pulled Joe close, commenting; “Well that’s some heavy dose of adrenaline, man. That thing might’ve weight like what? Twenty pounds, give or take?”

Officer Enguells: “Even before that, when you save the captain. I mean, you were pretty close, sure but you moved so fast.”

Joe: “I guess… so.”

The officers were alerted to yelling coming from Captain Tennyson’s office, all looking to their right.

Officer Perez: “Man, the captain is still yelling at Brickowski. He should be resting that arm.”

Officer White: “He has it in a sling. Besides, you know he won’t. He’s too stubborn.”

Joe: “I don’t blame him, though. Brickowski made a stupid decision back there, he put our lives in danger for no reason.”

Brickowski came out of the captain's office, silently walking past everyone on his way to the restroom. The shame weighed on him as he kept his head down and eyes glued to the floor when he walked through the room. The captain then went to his office door and barked; “What y’all standing around for?! You have a job to do, all of you! ” The officers responded in unison; “ Yes, sir!” The captain turned to go back into his office, before he fully stepped away however, he called out to Joe.

Captain Tennyson: “Officer Jeralds!”

Joe: “Yes, sir!”

Captain Tennyson: “Good work.”

Joe smiled and replied; “Thank you, sir.”

Captain Tennyson: “Yea. Now pick up Brickowski and get back on your beat.”

Joe: “Yes, sir.”

Joe went to the restroom, opening to the door where he saw Brickowski washing off his face.

Officer Brickowski: “You ‘ere to yell at me too?”

Joe: “No and I’m sorry about the jab back there.”

Office Brickowski: “I saw the shot and I took it, alright?”

Joe: “Brickowski, that could’ve gone way worse back there because of what you did. You realise that, don’t you?”

Officer Brickowski: “...Mr. Perfect over ‘ere, eh?”

Joe: “What?”

Officer Brickowski: “...Nothin’. Let’s go, we got a beat to run.”

Joe: “...Yea, let’s go.”

When the pair stepped outside, they were greeted by paparazzi, all shoving notepads in their faces and asking a multitude of questions. Of course they were asking Joe several questions about what had happened earlier that day. Brickowski was shoved to the side however as Joe was surrounded by both sides. Unfortunately Joe was becoming more nervous the more eyes and questions were pointed his way. Luckily, Captain Tennyson intervened, stepping between Joe and the sea of journalists and chasing them away with his commanding voice.

Captain Tennyson: “Alright, alright! Get outta here! You need to organise an interview with us, y’all can’t just pop onto my precinct! Get outta here!”

Joe thanked the captain after he successfully chased the reporters away.

Captain Tennyson: “You stared down the barrel of a loaded gun but you froze around these vultures?”

Joe: “I’m not really used to this, captain.”

Captain Tennyson: “Just get out there, huh?”

Joe: “Yes, sir.”

The captain had a smirk on his face as he watched Joe and Brickowski go down the steps, shaking his head before stepping back inside. Joe and Brickowski approached their squad car and the latter felt his uniform for his keys, quickly realising that he didn’t have them. Joe dangled them from his index finger, telling his partner; “You’re off driving duties today, Brickowski.”

Officer Brickowski: “When did you–?!”

Joe: “You left them on your desk. Now, get in.”

Brickowski grimaced and growled as Joe got behind the driver’s seat. Brickowski then walked around the car and sat in the front passenger's seat, still sporting a frustrated expression. Joe glanced his partner’s way, chuckled as he started the squad car and drove off.

(Pokey Oaks County, The Town of Citiesville, Night). Claw was back inside his office, looking at his adorned wall while listening to the radio, jazz music flowing through the room as he indulged in a smoke, silently watching said wall. There was a knock on the door and once given permission, one of the Wrecking Crew, Crow quietly entered the room.

Dialogue:

Claw: “Crow? I called up Jack.”

Crow: “He had to pick up his brother’s daughter from school last minute.”

Claw: “Oh, I see. Go on.”

Crow put on his glasses and then took out a notebook and a pen.

Crow: “Alright, the weapons moving is going well– Wreck is driving them in from Anytown as we speak. Also,  Mr. Herington III left a message. Only a week until he arrives in Sherman.”

Claw: “Hm.”

Crow: “Furthermore–.”

The radio suddenly switched from smooth jazz to breaking news, the voice of the reporter of Townsville News Brock Bachman interrupting the briefing.

Brock Bachman: “Earlier today, local policeman Joseph “Joe” Jeralds or ‘Major’ to his friends at the precinct. Accomplished a great feat of strength by throwing a bomb into the air, allowing it to explode away from the town, saving the people within. Of course, this was nothing more than a heroic act but one not usually expected by our boys in blue.”

Crow: “Man, that’s kind of inhuman. Ain’t it, Claw?”

Claw raised his hand, gesturing to Crow to be quiet.

Brock Bachman: “The bomb was created by explosive expert Dynamite Dog in an attempt to free his partner, the incarcerated Duke Monday. Who was arrested by Officer Jerdals only five days prior. Now the question is, how did he do it? How did he throw a bomb so far up into the air and will we ever find out?”

Claw: “This is… unexpected.”

Crow: “What do you think, Claw?”

Claw: “Hysterical strength, maybe? He was in an extremely tense situation after all– his adrenaline should be rampantly flowing through his body at that moment.”

Crow: “Sure, that could be it. Like a father saving their kid from underneath a car.”

Claw: “Mhm.”

Crow: “So… do you want me to continue with the briefing?”

Claw flicked his hand at Crow, gesturing that he should leave the room with Crow doing so gently as always.

Claw: “Joseph Jeralds.”

(Pokey Oaks County, The Town of Townsville, Night). Joe arrived home, being given another lift by Perez after going for a couple of drinks. Joe bid his friend farewell with a wave before going inside his apartment. Joe stepped through his door, closing it behind it and leaning onto it, taking a moment to process all the events of that day. He took a deep breath, releasing it through his mouth after taking it in through his nose. Joe took a shower, changed into his pajamas and then hopped into bed. He was lying on his back, staring up at the ceiling and then his hands, lifting them up and positioning them before his line of sight. He would ball them into fists as he recalled the moment he threw the bomb sky high. Joe laid his arms at his side and then turned to his side, snuggling into his sheets before eventually drifting off to sleep.

To Be Continued

Chapter Text

(Pokey Oaks County, The Town of Townsville, Day). Joe was awake earlier than normal; he had already done his workout, already ate and did his early morning jog to cap it all off. He was now sitting at his dining table in his kitchen with a cup of coffee to his left and a pen and notebook to his right. Joe wanted answers, he wanted to know why ever since that day, he felt a little different, he had changed and that change was ongoing. Joe was scanning various newspaper articles and books from the local library and writing down valuable information in his notebook. He would find articles and writings about certain individuals that showed strange characteristics that were brought on by sudden changes that were referred to as mutations. However, these people would have negative perception bestowed onto them, ridiculed for their changes and for some, their actions. Joe wrote down every important information he found, taking a breather after writing his last word.

Dialogue:

Joe: “In everything I look through, I see this same term… E.V.O. No, there has to be a logical explanation for what I did last week. There has to be.”

Joe glanced at the clock on the wall, realising that it was coming up to the hour he would usually wake up to start his day and knowing that it would be time to head off to work soon. Joe took the last drink of his coffee, got up to put away his notes and research material, then got ready for work. Joe was dressed in uniform and was out the door, locking up his apartment when his neighbour stepped out of his apartment. It was a lanky man with a slight mustache whose tattered cowboy hat with a comically wide brim contrasted his somewhat well-kempt clothes.

Joe: “Morning, Jed.”

Montana Jed locked up, dropping his keys into his pocket as he crossed the short distance between his door and Joe’s to meet his neighbour.

Montana Jed: “Oh, good mornin’, Major! Off to work, eh?!”

Joe had locked his door, responding; “As usual.”

Montana Jed: “I’m just about to open up the food cart, wanna swing by for a Prirare Dog on a Stick? Not real Prirare Dog by the way, they're just wieners.”

Joe: “Thanks Jed but I’ve already eaten.”

Montana Jed: “Ok– Oh, you heard that the man from apartment 103 just up and left the apartment yesterday?”

Joe: “No, I didn't. I came in rather late last night. What happened?”

Montana Jed: “Not sure, one moment he was here and the next, he wasn’t.”

Joe held his chin, pondering the predicament.

Joe: “That is strange, though. After all, he wasn’t even here for long. Did he at least end his lease on the apartment?”

Montana Jed: “Nah and the landlord has been real peeved about that. I don’t know, that dude was behavin’ a bit strangely if ya ask me.”

Joe: “Strangely?”

Montana Jed: “You bet. I’ve been hearin’ grumblin’ and the sort comin’ from his apartment for the time he was here. From time to time, he would seep through my walls with his groanin’ and such.”

Joe: “Growls? Was he hurt?”

Montana Jed: “Don’t know. I was uh… too scared to ask.”

Montana Jed chuckled embarrassed. Jed got closer to Joe, specifically closer to his ear.

Montana Jed: “If ya ask me, I think they might’ve been one ah dem freaks .”

Joe: “...Uh– what?”

Montana Jed backed away and continued; “Yea, dem people who just change one day and become monsters and such. I think he left before they were chased outta town– ya know, to avoid the trouble.”

Montana Jed let out a snorty chuckle while Joe replied with a more anxious one.

Joe: “Listen Jed, I have to uh– I have to get going.”

Montana Jed: “No problem, Major!”

Montana Jed let out another snorty laugh while seeing Joe off with a playful salute. Joe raced downstairs, taking a breath upon reaching the outside world. After regaining his composure, he went to the apartment parking lot where his car was waiting for him. He had bought it just a few days ago and while it wasn’t much, it got Joe from one place to the next which was all he cared about. Joe got into his two-seater, gripping onto the wheel where he took another deep breath. He was about to start the car when he heard a man yelling in the distance and the voice was familiar.

Joe: “...Jed?”

Joe quickly got out of his car, closing the door when he saw a man running away from the apartment with Montana Jed running after him. However, Montana Jed quickly ran out of steam, stopping and planting his hands on his knees, crouching out a bit to catch his breath. Joe hurried over to Montana Jed, asking the tired man; “Are you alright?!”

Montana Jed: “I… he stole… some of my… dogs , Major!”

Joe looked down the street and saw the man running with a bag full of Prirare Dogs on a Stick and he had made it a good distance. Joe glanced back at his car, thinking of driving after the man but quickly deciding against it. The thought of his inhuman feat began rushing back through his mind, he looked at his hands, wondering if he could possibly achieve such a feat again.

Joe: “I’ll be right back, ok?”

Montana Jed: “Go gyet ‘em, Major.”

Joe, honing in on the criminal who had gained more distance, readied his legs. He then ran off; Joe felt relatively the same, the change he felt before didn’t reveal itself which made Joe double himself.

Joe: “Like I said, there is a logical–.”

Suddenly, Joe felt that change. He felt everything around him slow down; the cars were barely moving and the wings of birds flying overhead went to a near standstill, their wings slowly flapping up and down. Joe felt like he was ahead of the pack while everyone else tried to catch up, a lonely and almost isolating feeling. He shook his head, brushing off that feeling, honing back into the criminal that was running away with the bag of Prirare Dogs on a Stick. The feeling was yet still overwhelming but Joe pushed through it, blasting off and instantly catching up to the perp, much to even his own shock. Once Joe grabbed onto the man’s shoulder, pulling him in, everything around Joe went back to normal speed, from the cars in the street to the birds in the sky.

Joe: “Stop right there!”

The man was trying his hardest to escape but Joe’s grip was too tight, even though that man was twice the size of Joe. Joe pushed the perp against the wall while taking the bag of Montana Jed’s stolen food away from him. The man pleaded; “Ow, I’m sorry! Dammit!”

Joe: “What’s your name?”

Big John: “People call me Lummox but my name is Big John.”

Joe: “Big John?”

Big John: “Yea. First name Big, last name John. What of it?”

Joe: “Uh, nothing. That’s a lovely name.”

Big John: “So, what happens now?”

Joe: “You’re under arrest, Big John .”

Joe spun the man around and as he was placing the cuffs on Big John, Joe suddenly heard cheers coming from all directions, staring off soft before morphing into a rousing applause. Countless of Townsville’s citizens present celebrated Joe as he completely cuffed Big John, forcefully shifting him forward.

Joe: “Thank you, it’s no problem at all.”

Montana Jed eventually made his way down the street, meeting up with Joe and Big John, giving the perp a piece of his mind.

Montana Jed: “If ye wanted some dogs, ya coulda just asked!”

Montana Jed turned to Joe, his face brightening up with a smile and said; “Thank ya, Major.” Joe smiled and handed Montana Jed his stolen food.

Montana Jed: “Thank ya again, Major! Hey, how did you catch that guy so fast?!”

Joe: “I was… moving fast? I didn’t notice.”

Montana Jed took out one of the Prirare Dogs on a Stick from the bag and shoved it into Joe’s hand, telling him; “Here, it’s on the house.”

Joe: “Oh, tha– thanks.”

Montana Jed: “I should be the one thanking you !”

Joe: “I’m just doing my duty.”

Concurrently, driving down the streets of Townsville was a black limousine belonging to the aristocrat Phil Anthropist. He was dressed in his usual black suit and top hat but this time sporting a cane with a ball point tip. Accompanying him was a young woman named Helen Troy, an engineer with an innovative mind. She wore a black top and dress pants with loafers, golden glasses, a gold ring that contrasted her brown hair and blue eyes. Helen was looking out the window of the limo, silently watching the town pass her by. She glanced over to Phil, noticing the glass of wine shaking in his hand ever so slightly, which instantly made her curious.

Helen Troy: “Nervous?”

Phil: “Oh, no no no– why do you ask?”

Helen Troy: “You’re pretty close to dropping that still full glass of wine you have.”

Phil realised that she was right, setting down the glass in the cupholder that was built into the car door interior.

Helen Troy: “Phil… if you want to back out–.”

Phil: “No no… no. Ms. Troy, this has nothing to do with you, you hear. Nothing at all. What you’re doing, connecting us with our sister town, is a fantastic thing.”

Phil chuckled and jokingly continued; “Plus, you being a woman with that accomplishment makes it even more enticing to be a part of that great achievement.” Helen leaned forward, getting closer to Phil.

Helen Troy: “Are you certain?”

Phil: “Helen, I’m absolutely certain.”

Helen cracked a tight smile before returning to a somewhat emotionless expression as she leaned back in her seat.

Helen Troy: “Ok.”

Phil: “Alright.”

Helen Troy: “So, we’re on our way to the town’s police precinct, correct?”

Phil: “Yes we are but after we meet with Mayor Hartfield to finalise a few things.”

Helen Troy: “Of course.”

(Townsville Police Department, Interior). Joe was sitting at his desk, back into his notes instead of dealing with paperwork, trying to find anything else that could possibly explain away his changes, trying to find some form of normalcy. Joe was engrossed in the process when Officer Perez walked up and sat on the edge of Joe’s desk, calling out to him. However, despite Officer Perez being right next to Joe, Joe himself did not hear the officer’s voice. Officer Perez had to tap Joe on the shoulder when calling out to him once more.

Dialogue:

Joe: “Hm? Oh– sorry, Perez.”

Officer Perez leaned over to see what Joe was doing and asked; “What ya got there, Major? Love letters?” Joe pulled his notes from Officer Perez’s line of sight, hiding them away under his elbow.

Joe: “It’s uh– it’s nothing.”

Officer Perez: “What, you looking into the ‘superheroes’ that popped up in California?”

Joe: “No– wait, what?”

Officer Perez: “You didn’t hear? Some dude and his brother put on a cape and now they think they're heroes. Captain Righteous and Captain Nemesis or whatever– right out of a cartoon.”

Officer Brickowski then came by, adding; “I heard that they used to be Hollywood actors or somethin’.”

Officer Perez: “Yea, I think I heard that somewhere too.”

Joe, still hiding his notes, was blankly staring at Officer Perez. Perez noticed and asked; “Seriously Joe, you alright man?”

Joe: “Ye– yea, I am. It’s nothing, I’m just brushing up on my criminal info.”

Officer Brickowski: “So you can ace the pop quiz or something?”

Joe: “This again, Brickowski? It’d do you some good to do the same, you know. Nothing wrong with knowing who we’re up against.”

Officer Brickowski: “Bah, I know plenty .”

Officer Perez snickered from Brickowski’s declaration.

Officer Brickowski: “The heck are you on about, Perez?!”

Officer Perez pointed at Brickowski’s desk which was filled with empty donut boxes that added to its overall disheveled state.

Officer Perez: “You’re probably hiding root beer under the desk and I bet there’s drool on it from you sleeping with your mouth open. Again.”

Brickowski glared at Perez and Joe, the latter staring back at him with a stoic expression and groaned. He then waved both officer’s off and walked away. Joe was still watching Brickowski walk away when Perez asked; “Joe?”, prompting Joe to face his fellow officer.

Joe: “Yea?”

Officer Perez: “You okay, man?”

Joe: “...What do you know about E.V.O.s?”

Officer Perez: “E.V.O.s? Those weirdos?”

Joe: “Weirdos?”

Officer Perez: “Yea, they’re just a bunch of monsters that wreck stuff and hurt people. The ones I’ve seen usually look like– well, monsters but you have some that look normal which is kinda trippy. You don’t know about them?”

Joe: “Hm? No, never met them. I was uh, I was just asking.”

Officer Perez: “Hey… you sure you’re alright?”

Joe: “Uh– yea, yea.”

Perez smiled.

Officer Perez: “I’m not much of a therapist but I can lend an ear when you need to talk.”

Joe: “...Thank you, Perez.”

Captain Tennyson came out of his office and declared with his thunderous voice; “Look sharp, we have visitors!” Just then, Phil and Helen Troy had stepped into the police station. Helen’s presence in particular prompted every officer to stand and take off their hats, placing them against their chest as they greeted her.

Phil: “Visitors? I thought we were friends , Jebediah?”

Captain Tennyson: “Who told you that?”

Helen Troy: “We don’t need small talk, you know why we’re here.”

Captain Tennyson: “Straight to the point, good.”

The captain declared to his officers; “ALRIGHT LISTEN UP!!! As you know– I dang well hope you do, today is the grand unveiling of that new train made by the young lady standing before you!”

Helen Troy: “You flatter me, captain. There were a lot of moving parts in the Sonitrain’s development– from the many men that built it to funds that Mr. Anthropist so graciously donated.”

Phil: “Now you’re flattering me .”

Captain Tennyson: “Mhm. Well, the train’s gonna be in the brand new train station that was built and Ms. Troy here needs officers there on guard detail!”

Officer Perez: “Who you got in mind, Captain?”

Captain Tennyson: “Glad ya asked, Perez. You’re one of those officers.”

Officer Perez: “The best for first, I guess.”

Captain Tennyson: “It’s Opposite Day, Perez.”

Perez shot a snarky smile as the other officers chuckled at his expense. The captain went on to pick around ten officers that included Perez, Pepper, White, Enguells and Joe. When Joe’s name was called, Perez playfully nudged him on the arm.

Captain Tennyson: “Lemme just grab my things and we’ll get going.”

Officer Brickowski: “Captain, I want to– uh, I want to join up too.”

Captain Tennyson: “Brickowski–.”

Officer Brickowski: “Please, Captain.”

Captain Tennyson “...Yea, go ahead.”

Captain was about to walk back to his office when he told Brickowski; “Oh yea and get rid of  that bottle of root beer that you hid under your desk, Brickowski.” Brickowski’s face immediately turned beet red from embarrassment. He then did as asked, sheepishly getting the bottle from under his desk and quickly exiting the building to get rid of it.

Officer Perez: “Wait to go, Brickowski.”

Joe and Helen’s eyes crossed and the woman walked over to the officer, taking Joe aback a bit.

Helen Troy: “Are you Officer Joseph Jeralds?”

Joe put back on his hat and shook Helen’s hand, answering; “Yes. Yes, I am. Nice to meet you.”

Helen Troy: “Likewise. I am aware of your heroic act from last week– saving all those people by throwing the bomb skyward. A tremendous feat, if I do add.”

Joe: “Thank you.”

Helen Troy: “However, it is also– one would say, an unrealistic one.”

Joe: “Is that one person you by chance?”

Helen Troy: “Oh no… not at all.”

Helen shot Joe a smile who replied with one in kind. The captain then came back out of his office, locking the door behind him.

Captain Tennyson: “The officers who were called up– you know who you are, let’s get a move on!”

Phil: “Yes, let’s get this show on the road, gentlemen!”

Officer Perez: “Yea, the show doesn’t start til we get there.”

Captain Tennyson: “Can it, Perez.”

Phil Anthropist’s limo pulled out of the police station, accompanied by multiple squad cars, on their way to Townsville’s train station. At the same time, Claw and his Wrecking Crew were on their way to the subway station as well, inside Claw’s signature silver limo. Claw had a glass of red wine in his hands, taking slow sips at certain intervals.The Wrecking Crew were all partakking in the wine as well, taking slow sips just like Claw was. The limo’s phone, sitting next to Claw, started ringing which prompted him to set down his wine and answer it.

Claw: “Speak.”

Troy Herington III: “I… I got back the shipment of Herodium.”

On the other side of the phone, Troy Herington III was calling from a police station in Sherman Illinois, by a payphone across the street from it. The station itself was completely ransacked and riddled with fallen officers and other faculty. Troy’s men were moving around the station, guns in hand, making sure that they had truly gotten the job done.

Claw: “You understand that you almost ruined my dreams of monopolising clean energy, correct?”

Troy Herington III: “Yes… I know.”

Claw:”Good. Great work, return with my property.”

Troy Herington III: “...On my way.”

Claw then hung up the phone and went back to drinking his wine.

Claw: “Are the explosives in place?”

Wreck: “You betcha, boss man! We made sure to gyet outta bed real early so we could pop down ‘ere when nobody was aroun’!”

Claw: “And you all made sure they were properly hidden?”

Jack: “No doubt about it, we hid in the exact places you told us to, Mr. Claw.”

Claw: “Very efficient, you three.”

Crow took out his notebook and exclaimed; “I made sure to write down the instructions when you told us. Made it easier to remember.”

Claw: “I see.”

After taking a sip of his wine, Jack glanced at Claw, smiling after something seemingly caught his eye.

Jack: “I don’t guys but I think Mr. Claw is excited .”

Claw looked down at his glass of wine after taking a sip, slowly swirling the wine around.

Claw: “I suppose… that wouldn’t be a bad assumption.”

Jack: “This is gonna be good !”

(Townsville Train Station, Day). The train station was built on the northern edge of Townsville and it was currently filled with the town’s folk, their voices of excitement all filling the air as they awaited the Sonitrain’s unveiling. They had congregated on the platform where one would wait for the train and the railways was before them while the building where the tickets are sold was situated behind them. It was a one story building with multiple booths, painted in green, a pale red with bright blue accents. Standing before the crowd was Helen Troy, Phil Anthropist, Captain Tennyson and three notable officers; Officer Perez, Brickowski and Joe. Helen approached the microphone, clasping the stand with both hands, ready to speak. At the same time, Claw’s silver limo drove up to the train station, parking a few feet away from the building. Claw took another swig of his wine, watching as Helen gave her speech.

Dialogue:

Helen Troy: “I have lived in this town for the past 26 years– born and raised. I am happy to know that Townsville went from a simple settlement to the large town it is today! Becoming a place filled with opportunity and brighter tomorrows! It is an honour to be part of that change, of that growth! I also feel that its growth should be shared with others– of course I am talking about our sister town, Citiesville.”

As Helen continued her speech, Joe was entranced by her words, smiling at her sentiment as her voice rang in his ear. However, his thoughts shifted, the images of prosperity that Helen’s speech helped visualise in his mind, transformed into the memories of superhuman feats. He found himself running at high speeds through a void, isolated and the more he ran, the more along he felt. Luckily, Joe quickly snapped himself out of his trance, knowing that should be on alert.

Joe: “Come on, Joe. Focus . You are on the job right now. You’ll handle that later .”

Captain Tennyson: “Jeralds, look sharp.”

Joe: “Sorry, sir.”

Joe fixed himself, stiffening his body like a board and stared straight ahead. His and the captain’s eyes did cross paths quickly and the captain took a moment before turning back around. Joe continued to listen to Helen’s words when he noticed a slight agitation from Phil, tapping the small man on his shoulder to get his attention.

Joe: “Mr. Anthropist, are you alright?”

Joe made sure to ask with a whisper as to not interrupt Helen’s speech and Phil answered in similar fashion.

Phil: “Hm? Oh, dear boy. I am alright.”

Joe saw a beat of sweat running down the man’s temple, making Joe find Phil’s reassurance a bit dubious. Joe then realised that Phil was looking at something beyond the crowd of elated faces, specifically at the silver limo that pulled up next to the train station. Now Joe was suspicious of both Phil and the limo he was eyeing.

Helen Troy: “This train– the Sonitrain as I named it, will be a bridge so that Townsville can spread its growth outwards! And yes, our neighbour town is the beginning because I believe Townsville can and will become a beacon for this great nation and this is but the first step!”

Helen gestured to Phil and continued; “Of course, this was majorly possible due to the gracious contribution of Mr. Phil Anthropist!” and the town’s people clapped as he stepped up to the microphone.

Phil: “Thank you, Ms. Troy! Yes, I contributed to this endeavour but uh… this was the right thing to do! Like Ms. Troy, I also see a bright future for this town! I see it becoming a massive city that houses brilliant minds and ideas! Heck, that’s why we rich folk moved in here!”

His latter comment got a chuckle from the crowd.

Phil: “I speak seriously, mind you… This town has been through a lot to get where it is now!”

Phil’s eyes glanced over to Claw’s limo, swallowing his spit when he saw that the passenger window was down and Claw was looking right at him. Phil managed to collect himself and continued on with his speech.

Phil: “This town will be great and I see that Helen will make sure of it. Others like The Heringtons– who’s sadly out of town right now. Mr. Moe Bucks– just Morbucks , who’s also in the crowd, is currently making sure of it! He’s already establishing connections between this town and China!”

Morbucks replied with a playful salute using two his fingers and a tight smile as the crowd clapped.

Phil: “And I know… I want to make sure of it.”

Helen stepped back up to the microphone where Phil handed it off back to her before stepping into the background. Helen then cheered; “To Townsville! ” and the crowd then cheered back; “ To Townsville!”

Helen Troy: “Now, for what you all came here to see! The Sonitrain!”

The train in question then rolled up the railway, the Sonitrain; a white train, looking like purified milk with yellow accents and yellow tinted windows with a sloped front end and an overall sleek build for speed. It was also operated by the town’s mayor, Mayor Cornelius Hartfield who stuck his head out of the driver’s window and waved to his citizens.

Mayor Hartfield: “She’s a beaut, ain’t she?!”

Phil: “She is, Mr. Mayor! Ms. Troy here made sure of that.”

Mayor Hartfield: “Who wants to take the first ride on the Sonitrain ?!”

Phil: “Wait, what? Hold on!”

Helen Troy: “Mr. Anthropist?”

Captain Tennyson approached the fidgety man and asked; “You alright there, Phil?”

Phil: “No– I mean… it’s just, we don’t have to make people ride it today, right? I mean, the people can go home now, right? They’ve seen the train, they think the train’s great. They can go now, right? Get back to their lives? I thought that was the case, we show the people the future and then go home.”

Captain Tennyson: “Phil, you’re talking crazy.”

Officer Brickowski: “Hey, wait a minute. I wanted to get on this thing! It’s part of the reason I ca–!”

Brickowski noticed the captain’s intense scowl and quickly pivoted.

Officer Brickowski: “Uh, I want to keep it safe on the inside.”

Officer Perez: “Nice save.”

Joe noticed that Phil was once again gazing at the silver limo in the distance.

Joe: “Mr. Anthropist, what do you see?”

Phil: “What?”

Joe: “I noticed you earlier as well, looking into the distance. What is it? Why are you against the train’s operation?”

Officer Brickowski: “He probably has cold feet.”

Joe: “This seems serious, Brickowski!”

Officer Brickowski: “Says who? You? The ‘all knowing Major Joe’ ?”

Joe: “What is wrong with you?!”

Officer Brickowski: “Give me a few minutes and I’ll let you know!”

Brickowski was about to walk up to Joe when the captain grabbed Brickowski by the collar and him back.

Captain Tennyson: “What the hell is this!? Are you stupid?! We’re not in the ladies room, you gossip on your own time! Got it?!”

Both Joe and Brickowski answered; “Yes, sir!” Helen got in Phil’s face and asked; “...Mr. Anthropist, what’s going on?” Phil’s anxiety only grew, he was hyperventilating and drowning in own sweat while unable to find the words to speak. He tried but he only kept on stuttering and stumbling over his words.

Hele Troy: “Phil!”

Phil: “...I’m sorry.”

Helen Troy: “...What?”

Joe decided to scan the area, looking around, seeing all the worried faces of the crowd whizzing by as he thrashed his head from left to right. He honed in at the silver limo that Phil had his eyes on the entire time and as he stared, he started to realise that he could hear the voices of the people inside. It was confusing and overwhelming at first as he was also hearing voices from everyone and everything around him.

Helen Troy: “Joseph?”

Joe: “I’m alright… I’m a…”

It was just like any other change he’d experience, another trip into the unknown but just like those times, he pushed through the unknown and focused on just the voices within the car. The adrenaline coursing through him allowed him to concentrate while dulling his grewing anxiety and eventually, he could hear the voices inside the limo clearly. He heard Claw say; “Arm the explosives.”

Joe: “...There’s a bomb.”

Phil was first one of the group to spin around in Joe’s direction, shocked at the declaration.

Officer Perez: “The heck?!”

Captain Tennyson: “Jeralds?!”

Joe: “I am not joking, sir! We need to clear the area!”

Captain Tennyson was about to ignore what was to him, delusions from an anxious officer. However, the captain took a moment to look Joe’s eyes where he saw that same resolve he saw during the Dynamite Dog incident.

Captain Tennyson: “...Perez! Brickowski! Get everyone out of here, now!”

Officer Brickowski: “You can’t seriously–!”

Captain Tennyson: “ Now , Brickowski!”

Perez pulled Brickowski along and they regrouped with the other officers to escort the crowd to safety, away from the train station. Nevertheless, some of the people within the crowd were reluctant until Brickowski projected his voice; “There’s a bomb here, alright?! Get going!” This caused pandemonium but the people did listen, running toward safety. Perez shot Brickowski a look, slowly shaking his head.

Officer Brickowski: “What?! It got the job done, didn’t it?!”

Officer Perez: “Yea, yea. Just come on, huh?”

Meanwhile, inside the silver limo, Claw and his Wrecking Crew were watching the panic unfold before them.

Wreck: “I didn’t do nothin’!”

Jack: “Shut up, Wreck, we know!”

Crow: “I guess they found out about the bomb?”

Jack: “That's what it looks like. But we made sure to hide it so how did they find it?”

Claw was staring out the window, watching the people run by, when he spoke; “We still go through with the plan. I wanted to destroy his show of good, the people were nothing more than collateral, it didn't matter how many the blast got. My intention wasn’t to kill anyone.”

Jack noticed that Claw was still staring out the window and asked; “Uh, what ya lookin’ at, Mr. Claw? Something caught yer eye?”

Claw: “I suppose you could say… someone . Now, start the countdown.”

Jack initiated the countdown on command, pressing a couple buttons on an apparatus he had resting on his lap. The bombs themselves were numerous sticks of dynamite connected to a fuse that would go off after the timer arrived at zero using clock functionality. Joe picked up on the countdown, hearing the ticking coming from the train and looking around to see if others were hearing what he did. However, they did not.

Joe: “Captain, they’re on the train!”

Helen Troy: “How do you know that?”

Captain Tennyson: “He can explain that later, alright! Let’s get moving!”

Phil was actually subjugated to an anxiety filled trance the entire time, finally breaking free after hearing the captain’s words.

Phil: “Hm? What was that?”

Captain Tennyson: “You deaf?! We’re getting clear?!”

Phil: “Wha– what?! So what?! We’re just going to allow the train to blow up?!”

Captain Tennyson: “What, you wanna stay here and go up with it?!”

Phil: “Can’t we– we can’t just allow this great achievement to–!”

Helen grabbed Phil by his shoulders.

Helen Troy: “Mr. Anthropist! Phil! It’s alright.”

Phil: “But Ms. Troy.”

Helen Troy: “Let’s go!”

Phil: “...Helen.”

Joe glanced at the train one last time and while still looking at it, he said; “You guys go… I’ll save the train.”

Captain Tennyson: “Have you lost your goddamn mind?!”

Joe: “Maybe but this train is far too important to give up on so easily. I can do this.”

Captain Tennyson: “...Those dang eyes. Do you know where they are?”

Joe nodded.

Captain Tennyson: “...Get to it.”

He then turned to Helen and Phil and ordered; “Move! Let’s get a move on!” Before the trio left, Helen turned to Joe and said; “...Thank you, Joseph.”

Joe: “I’m just doing my duty.”

Phil and Joe shared a nod before the trio ran off, leaving Joe behind. Joe turned to the train and took a deep breath.

Joe: “You can do this, Joe.”

Captain Tennyson, Helen and Phil met up with Officer Perez and Brickowski, in the middle of escorting more people to safety.

Officer Perez: “Captain?! Where’s Joe?!”

Captain Tennyson: “He’s savin’ this town’s livelihood, son!”

Officer Perez: “What?!”

Officer Brickowski saw Joe standing before the train, watching him with narrow eyes.

Captain Tennyson: “You two, get outta ‘ere! You’re not sightseein’!”

Helen Troy: “Let’s go, Mr. Antropist!”

Phil: “Ye– yes.”

The two ran off with Phil trying to find Claw’s silver limo but being unsuccessful because of the people in hysterics crowding his sight. Helen grabbed the stout man by the arm and pulled him along, as he was lagging behind, saying; “Let’s go!”

Phil: “Ye– yes!”

Back at the train, Joe looked underneath the train where he in fact found the twelve stacks of explosives that were placed.

Joe: “Ok, that’s a lot.”

Joe looked back, seeing the people frantically running away.

Joe: “I can’t do– whatever I’m about to do here . Not where people can see.”

Joe ran to the other side of the train, quickly stooping down and going to work, taking off the explosives while doing it as delicately as possible.

Joe: “I still need to be quick… that run around the rain took up time.”

Joe continued taking off the explosives, chanting to himself; “Come on. Turn on– or something. Come on.”  However, his heightened speed did not kick in.

Joe: “Whatever, I just have to hurry!”

Captain Tennyson and the other officers had finished getting all the people a safe distance away. Perez looked back at the train for Joe and saw that he wasn’t there anymore, instantly getting worried.

Officer Perez: “Where is he?! Where’s Joe?!”

Captain Tennson: “Dammit, boy!”

While the others were worrying about their fellow officer, Officer Brickowski was just glaring at the Sonitrain. Joe was finally down to the last explosive to unhinged from the train’s undercarriage, doing so and gently setting it down in a pile with the others. He unfortunately found that the timer was near completion, only a few seconds remained.

Joe: “No no no! I wasn’t fast enough!”

Suddenly everything began to slow and the time between each tick of the clock began to get wider. Joe saw the countdown go down to three seconds, the clock's arms making another trip around.

Joe: “ Now you show up. Alright Joe, gotta work fast, I don't have much time left.

Behind him were the massive woodlands, the outskirts of the town and Joe had an idea.

Joe: “I need to try.”

Joe hurriedly picked up all the explosives, having them in his arms he ran off, speeding towards the town’s outskirts as fast as he could. Once close enough, Joe threw the bombs and it was inches away from him when he heard that the ticking of the clock ended.

Joe: “Oh no.”

The bombs went off right before Joe, a large pillar of fire and destruction blasted into the sky which immediately got all the town’s folk attention. The sound of the explosion emulated a great impression of thunder after a lightning strike and it sent tremors throughout the ground like a high scaled earthquake. Afterwards, Joe found himself a few feet away from a large crater of fire and pungent smoke that flowed into the air with the help of the wind. He managed to stagger back onto his feet, fully intact and most importantly alive. Although his clothes were extremely tattered or completely blown right off and his skin had slight bruising, Joe wasn’t badly injured but he was in intense pain. Even so, just like anything else, he pushed through the pain.

Joe: “I’m… alive.”

Joe looked back at the Sonitrain and smiled that it was still safe and sound as well as its citizens.

Joe: “I did it… I protected everyone.”

As for the pain that Joe was fighting through just to stand, it had finally gotten to him. He began breathing even heavier, prompting him to grab his chest, he felt weary and his vision began to blur until he ultimately passed out. Unbeknownst to Joe, some distance away from the explosion, Officer Brickowski had seen the entire ordeal unfold.

Officer Brickowski: “Joe… you bastard !”

(Townsville Hospital, Interior). Joe opened his eyes and all he saw was white, like a vast expanse but once his vision went back to normal, Joe realised that he was inside a hospital room. He looked to his left, outside the windows, watching the sun shine its bright yellow rays as the curtains fluttered in the wind. Joe suddenly sat up in his bed, remembering the prior events and when he looked down on himself, he discovered that he was wrapped in medical gauze as well as being attached to an IV drip. Joe lifted his left arm, hovering it above his right. His hand was shaking, nervous of what he would find when he took them off. Joe swallowed spit and unwrapped the gauze, he had a mixture of shock and relief from his right arm appearing completely unscathed.

Dialogue:

Joe: “This is great and all but wasn’t I covered in bruises?”

Joe heard the voices for two people talking to one another, one of those voices being Helen Troy. She greeted the other person as “Nurse Loulabelle”; a blonde woman with shiny red lips wearing a white nurse’s dress and a hat with a red cross branded on her left breast.

Nurse Loulabelle: “Back again, Ms. Troy? Your boy Joe is swell . He’s still out, though. Even after three days.”

Helen Troy: “Will he be alright?”

Nurse Loulabelle: “Oh of course! He’s still stable, no change in his condition whatsoever.”

Joe was shocked by the revelation, mouthing the words; “ Three. Days? ”

Helen Troy: “Good. May I see him?”

Thinking that the two ladies were just outside the door, Joe turned to the little window on the door to see them.

Joe: “Wait… Of course, they must be down the hallway.”

Listening in again, Joe was correct and he now heard Helen and Nurse Loulabelle walking down that hallway. Joe looked down at his arm, quickly rewrapping the medical gauze around it. Immediately after, Nurse Loulabelle opened the door to Joe’s room, leading Helen inside.

Nurse Loulabelle: “Here ya go, Ms. Troy– Oh, look who’s finally awake?! We were just walking about how you were sleeping for a while.”

Joe: “Oh, I see. Well, I’m awake now.”

Helen Troy: “I’m glad you're alright, Joseph.”

Joe: “Hello, Ms. Troy. Yea, I’m alright now. Thank you for always visiting.”

Helen Troy: “ ‘Always’? ”

Nurse Loulabelle: “How did you know Ms. Troy was here before? You were asleep, remember?”

Joe: “Well uh, it’s uh– I’m a policeman so it was pretty easy to uh– figure it out. Right?”

Helen Troy: “You can stare an explosion in the face but this interaction makes you nervous?”

Joe: “Well, not nervous .”

There was a moment of awkward silence in the room and Nurse Loulabelle felt the tension between the two.

Nurse Loulabelle: “Let me leave you two to chat. Remember, Ms. Troy, visiting hours end in the next two hours.”

Helen Troy: “Of course.”

Nurse Loulabelle smiled, glancing from Helen to Joe, letting a light chuckle. She then left, closing the door behind her. Helen then approached Joe’s bed, sitting in the chair next to it.

Helen Troy: “I want to thank you, Joseph. Because of you, my Sonitrain was saved and had the chance to transport people where they needed to be. People in this town worked in Citiesville and now it’s way easier for them to provide for their families. My mission of connecting the world has finally begun because you had the will to do what you did.”

Joe: “Connecting the world, huh?”

Helen Troy: “Townsville and Citiesville is just the beginning. I want a train all over the world. A major task, I know but I am up to the challenge.”

Joe: “I’m glad I could help, Ms. Troy.”

Helen Troy: “You did more than help , Joseph. You didn’t have to do what you did.”

Joe: “I’m just doing my duty, Ms. Troy.”

Helen Troy: “That simple?”

Joe: “Yea, kinda. Just like you, I have a mission and that is to protect the world and everyone in it.”

Helen Troy: “That is a herculean task, Joseph. I should know.”

Joe chuckled.

Joe: “...My Uncle Sam used to tell me stories when he was in the World War. He would tell me about all the missions he went on with The Crack Commandos.”

Helen Troy: “Crack Commandos?”

Joe: “It wasn’t their official name, it was given to them by the other soldiers. My Uncle Sam and best friends; The Living Bullet, Captain Sturdy, Sergeant Nitro and Ultra-Boy– all of them. He would tell me about the mission he and them went on, battling against the odds, fighting for America… It was there when I was but a little Major… when I realised that I also want to fight for this country. I don’t want my Uncle Sam’s efforts to be in vain. So yea, it’s not easy but I’m sure that I can do it, I have no doubts at all.”

Helen Troy: “Really? No doubts?”

Joe: “...No– no I don’t.”

Helen Troy: “Well I hope that our missions come to fruition.”

Joe: “They will.”

Helen Troy: “I admire your confidence.”

Joe: “I was told that I was ‘too sure of myself’. ”

Helen Troy; “Whoever said that is probably not too sure of themselves.”

Joe: “I guess so.”

Helen Troy: “...I do have a question, Joseph.”

Joe: “Hm?”

Helen turned directly to Joe, looking him in the eyes while Joe was trying his hardest not to blush.

Joe: “Wha– what do you want to know?”

Helen Troy: “How?”

Joe: “How… what?”

Helen was about to reiterate her question but the door suddenly burst open and officers piled into the room, escorted by Nurse Loulabelle. Captain Tennyson, Officer Perez, his partner Officr Enguells, Officer White and Officer Pepper.

Officer Perez: “Major, you’re up!”

Joe: “Hey, guys.”

Nurse Loulabelle: “Hour and a half, guys.”

Captain Tennyson: “We won’t be long now.”

Nurse Loulabelle nodded, leaving the room afterwards. The officers all greeted Helen, Captain Tennyson in particular removing his hat and pressing it against his chest as he did.

Helen Troy: “Good evening, gentlemen.”

Officer Enguells: “How ya feelin’, man?”

Joe: “I’m uh… I’m good.”

Captain Tennyson stepped forward.

Captain Tennyson: “Your actions were reckless, you could’ve gotten yourself killed! But… on the first day you told me what you were about and I believe you now.”

Joe: “Thanks, Cap– wait, you didn’t believe me before?”

Captain Tennyson: “Words are with a dime a dozen, kid. I needed to see action and you’ve proved that.”

Officer Pepper: “I’d say he was proving that since he got here.”

Captain Tennyson: “Watch where you’re pointing that nose, Pepper.”

Officer Pepper: “Yes, sir.”

Joe and the captain shared a smile, Joe chuckled and then replied; “Well, I’m glad I got to prove it to you, Captain. Thank you.” Captain Tennyson nodded.

Joe: “Now, tell me. What did I miss?”

Officer White: “Not much? But uh…”

Officer Pepper nudged White on the arm.

Officer Pepper: “ Not much? ”

Captain Tennyson: “There was an explosion at the Herington residence. Troy and his family–.”

Joe: “All of them?”

Captain Tennyson nodded.

Joe: “When did this happen?”

Captain Tennyson: “Three days ago, the day of the train bombing.”

Joe slouched as if the weight of the revelation was bogging him down. Thoughts of “What if” raced through his mind. However, the captain saw what was going on, snapping Joe out of his funk.

Captain Tennyson: “That’s enough of that.”

Joe: “What?”

Captain Tennyson: “Woulda, shoulda, coulda. You go down that road, you’ll go mad by the end of it.”

Officer Perez: “Yea Joe, don’t beat yourself up over it. You saved a lot of people that day.”

Joe: “...Yea.”

Looking around the room, Joe noticed that Officer Brickowski wasn’t present and asked; “Hey, where’s Brickowski?”

Officer Perez: “He couldn’t make it. He just had to go to the bar instead of visiting his partner.”

(Brickowski Residence, Day). Brickowski pulled into the driveway of his home; a quaint two story home that appeared unkempt, surrounded by dead grass with scatterings of rubbish nestled within. He looked over to the brown paper bag in the passenger seat which carried three bottles of root beer that soaked the bottom of the bag. He grabbed the bag and exited the car, walking across the gravel on his way to his front door. After opening the door, he dragged himself inside his home, lazily stripping himself of his uniform after setting the root beer in his living room sofa. He dropped the uniform on the back of the sofa and plopped himself down in his chair. Before him was a television but he opted to turn on the radio that was sitting down on the side table to his left. He was listening to tunes blaring from the radio as he enjoyed his root beer and he was half way through his first bottle when the music was suddenly interrupted by the voice of the reporter of Townsville News Brock Bachman.

Dialogue:

Brock Bachman: “Officer Joseph Jeralds has finally woken up after three days! The heroic policeman who saved all those lives at the town’s train station has stated that he will return to work tomorrow. Quite surprising to be honest but I suppose he is well rested. That being said, he did express sadness for the late Herington Family, wishing that he could have done something. However, you can’t save everyone. The people of Townsville are indeed happy for his comeback and happily await his return to the uniform. Welcome back, Major.”

Brickowski grimaced, took another swig of root beer and then shut off the radio. He got up, root beer in hand and went upstairs, passing by a framed monochromatic photo of what appeared to be Brickowski, a woman and a teenage boy. The woman had short blonde hair that coiled up at the ends with big bright eyes and the boy shared that same blonde hair. Interestingly enough, this framed photo stood out from the messiness of the house; there was a mountain of dishes in the sink, rolled balls of paper and small pieces of rubbish gathered up at every door along with cracks being in the walls. However, this photo was in perfect condition, not a speck of dust nor a crack in the frame. Brickowski took a moment to stare at this picture, his grip on his root beer loosening a bit. He saw that the frame was drooping a bit to the right, quickly straightening it, then stepping back to take another look at it. After seeing that it was perfectly straightened, he took another swig of his root beer before climbing to the top of the staircase. Brickowski came upon a bedroom, the door still open, and took a moment to look inside. This was also well kept, everything was neat and tidy unlike the rest of the house. Brickowski continued on, entering another room on the left of the hallway, before the bathroom, a much smaller room. The room was entirely cleaned out with only a single chair in the centre, situated before the north wall that was plastered with newspaper articles and not only from Townsville. There were newspaper articles from other outlets; The Sherman Herald from Illinois, The Daily Dump from Anytown and the Nowhere News from Nowhere Kansas to name a few. Each article was a chronicle of strange sightings; “Woman Made of Metal” , “A Man With No Face” and “Giant Purple Bast Spotted Outside Diner” . Brickowski was keeping track of certain individuals, ones that were always named by a singular term across all articles and that term was E.V.O.

Brickowski: “Monsters, every last one of them… just like you, Joe .”

(Anthropist Residence, Interior). Phil Anthropist was sitting his living room, looking out the same window that Claw was when he last visited. He was drinking wine from a glass and as the orange light of the sunset began turning to the black of night, Phil heard a sound that prompted him to look ahead. Phil was one again face to face with Claw. Phil, even while shaking, dropped his wine and quickly grabbed his gun from his side table then pointed it at the lanky man who was standing before him. Claw responded with a chuckle that evolved into full blown laughter but only for a moment.

Dialogue:

Claw: “When did you buy a gun, Mr. Anthropist?”

Phil: “Does it matter?”

Claw: “I suppose it doesn’t. Heard that Mr. Jeralds woke up today. Fascinating fellow, isn’t he?”

Phil: “What did you do to Troy? The explosion… that was you, wasn’t it?”

Claw: “Yes, that was me but you knew that, Mr. Anthropist.”

Phil: “... Why .”

Claw: “Because he slighted me.”

Phil: “But you got back your Herodium! Why did you–?!”

Claw: “And here I thought that you were done with this life. Come to find that you’re keeping up with current affairs.”

Phil: “We… we talked.”

Claw: “About that, prey tell?”

Claw took a seat in the chair opposite Phil, the action making the man jitter impulsively. There was a silence between the two men and Phil realised that Claw was actually curious.

Phil: “We– Well, he… he wanted to be free… free of you. He kept asking me how I did it. How did I leave this life– leave you. Little did he know that… I’m not actually free… aren’t I?”

Claw:”Hm. Self aware are we?”

The cold silence had returned but Claw asked; “Are you going to shoot?”

Phil: “Are you going to kill me?”

Claw: “Mr. Anthropist, if I wanted you dead, you would be. I told you before, I will bring down your empire made of false good. They are the curtains that hide your past ‘evil’ and all I have to do is burn them to ash. I will keep reminding you that you are scum for the rest– You were there when I told you this, Mr. Anthropist. You didn’t forget now, did you?”

Phil shook his head.

Claw: “Good. Admittedly, I actually came here for another reason but you went and changed the subject, now I’m uninterested in continuing. I think I will just take my leave.”

Claw stood up, Phil being startled by the simple action. Phil followed the lanky man with the gun, not breaking away for a second, too afraid to do so.

Claw: “I’ll be seeing you, Phil .”

Phil still had the gun aimed at Claw while the lanky man was walking out of the living room. After Claw left his home, Phil slowly sat the gun down on his side table. His right hand was shaking like a tremor was running through his arm, making him grab his wrist and hold his hand to his chest.

(Townsville Police Department, Interior). As the moon flew into the night sky, its light shone down on Captain Tennyson through the window behind him. He was the only person at the station and he was sitting at his desk, thinking about all the tragedies that had been taking place in a span of a week and three days. He sighed, letting out all the stress the events had caused. His thoughts then shifted to Joe, his newest officer that had so far shown to be a valued one. Although, there’s also something about him that made the captain ponder but he brushed it off. Captain Tennyson got up from his desk as it was time to lock up the station. He was outside the precinct and he had just turned the key in the lock when he heard a car pull up. Captain Tennyson turned around, seeing that it was actually a black limousine and exiting the driving seat, to the captain’s surprise, was Phil. The stout man looked anxious and agitated as he walked up the few steps to meet the old captain.

Dialogue:

Captain Tennyson: “Phil? You drivin’ yourself around now?”

Phil: “I uh…”

Captain Tennyson: “Phil, what’s wrong?”

Phil: “Jedidiah, I’m… I’m turning myself in.”

To Be Continued

Chapter Text

(Pokey Oaks County, The Town of Townsville, Day). It didn’t take long for everyone across Townsville to be informed about the massive development that happened a day prior, Phil Anthropist willingly turning himself in to the police. Each citizen had their eyes and ears perked as the news came through the airways, either through radios or from television sets, for those who owned them. Joe was driving his car down the street on the way to work and instead of the usual smiles and greetings he would get and return, it was people wholly focused on the news being put forth; from people in their car to customers listening to the radios at newspaper stands.

Dialogue:

Brock Bachman: “Phil Anthropist has been in police custody since last night, having turned himself in on his own volition. He is currently one of the two last aristocrats that remain in this town since the death of Terry Herington III and the rest of his family so of course, this came as a shock.”

Joe drive into work, quickly parking his car behind the station before bolting inside the building. He came through the door where he was met by the voice of Brock Bachman resonating through the lobby as each officer was listening from the few radios that were available. Joe hurried past various officers and other faculty on his way to Captain Tennyson’s office, stepping through the open door.

Joe: “Captain, is it true? Mr. Anthropist is here, right now?”

Captain Tennyson got up from his chair, putting on his hat as he approached the young officer.

Captain Tennyson: “Yea uh, it’s true. Came in last night just like the news said.”

Joe: “Well, did he confess to any crimes?”

Captain Tennyson: “Nope and he probably did do something, that’s how some of these rich types are but uh… I don’t think that’s why he’s here. I saw it in his eyes, Joe.”

Joe: “What? What did you see?”

Captain Tennyson: “...He’s scared somethin’ fierce, he’s running from something or someone .”

Joe: “What I don’t get is how the Townsville News got a hold of this?”

Captain Tennyson: “Easy, he told ‘em.”

Joe: “What? Why did he– Was this a warning for people who’re after him? Like him telling these potential threats where he is so they don’t come after him?”

Captain Tennyson: “Probably, maybe he thought they wouldn’t come after him if he was inside a police station but it’s still stupid. We don’t know who these people are and if they even exist. Who knows, they could be the type of people who’re crazy enough to storm the station for his head.”

Joe was about to speak when he suddenly turned his head to the left and said with a soft tone; “Ms. Troy is coming.” right before the woman in question did in fact enter through the doors of the police station. Captain Tennyson looked at Joe, confused but before he could pry, Joe quickly stepped away to meet up with Helen.

Joe: “Excuse me, sir.”

When Joe approached Helen, she asked the officer; “Is Phil really here?”

Joe: “Yea… I’m sorry. But he didn’t confess to any crimes, so he’s not guilty– not that we know of, at least.”

Helen Troy: “Regardless, this still looks bad. I accepted money from that man and now he’s in prison.”

Joe: “Jail, not a prison– nevermind. Look, Helen, you didn’t know.”

Helen Troy: “I should have. I thought that I did my research on that man before I agreed to work with him but I see now that he’s really good at hiding things.”

Joe pulled Helen into a comforting hug, saying; “Come here.” After a few seconds, the hug was then interrupted by Captain Tennyson, who came out of his office and asked with his booming voice; “Where the heck is Brickowski!”

Joe: “Uh– I’ll go look for him, Captain!”

Captain Tennyson: “Of course you will, he’s your partner Jeralds!”

Officer Perez came over to Joe and Helen, asking the former; “You need help?”

Joe: “No, I can find him on my own.”

Officer Perez: “You sure, man? More eyes don't hurt.”

Joe: “I know but I think I know where he is.”

Officer Perez: “Alright, man. I’ll keep Ms. Troy company…”

Perez turned to Helen and asked her directly; “If you’ll let me?” and Helen nodded, replying; “Yes, of course.”

Officer Perez: “So uh, do I get you a corsage or… ”

Joe laughed while Helen chuckled.

Helen Troy: “Thank you for that.”

Officer Perez: “I’m here all week.”

Joe nudged Perez on the, affirming the sentiment; “You kinda have to be.”

Joe: “Alright, be right back.”

_____________________________

Brickowski opened his eyes and found himself back at his home, sitting in his chair and before him was the television set, turned on and displaying a broadcast of a soccer game. Brickowski looked around, seeing that his house was clean and tidy, not a spec of garbage on the ground and the atmosphere was warm and cozy instead of cold and isolating. Brickowski smiled, leaning his head back in his chair, enjoying the warmness of his home. He then heard the sound of a bottle of root beer being opened and when he looked towards the kitchen doorway, Brickowski saw his wife Carol with a bottle of root beer in hand. Brickowski and his wife shared a smile and Carol then approached her husband, sitting on his lap where she planted a kiss on Brickowski’s lips. Brickowski was handed the root beer, happily taking it and quickly indulging, prompting Carol to chuckle. He held her close, sharing a moment when they heard the sudden screams of a boy coming from upstairs. Brickowski and his wife ran upstairs, past their shared bedroom and entered the room before the bathroom, their teenage son’s room. Brickowski’s eyes widened from shock while Carol covered her mouth with her hands, holding in her gasps. Brickowski called out his son’s name “Jeff” but his son only responded with screams of agony. Jeff fell out of his wheelchair and was on his elbows where he managed to ask; “ What’s happening to me?!” Unfortunately, the parents didn’t have an answer but even if they did, their words would have been snuffed out by the sound of bones breaking and flesh stretching. Tears came to Brickowski’s eyes as the looming shadow made by their son’s growing form blanketed him and his wife in a sheet of pitch black. There was then an ear-deafening roar.

_____________________________

(The Varmints Bar, Interior). Brickowski then woke up, now finding himself inside the Varmints Bar, sitting on a stool with his head down on the bar. Brickowski sat up, looking around him, at all the people that didn’t notice his sudden trip back to consciousness. To his right was a half empty bottle of root beer, taking it up and downing it in one just a few gulps. After setting it down, he asked Pesos Bill for another but was denied.

Dialogue:

Pesos Bill: “I’m cuttin’ ya off, Mike. No more.”

Officer Brickowski: “C’mon, you know I’m good for it.”

Pesos Bill: “...Go home, Mike.”

A voice then added; “Listen to him, Brickowski.” Brickowski turned further to his right, seeing Joe standing next to him. With Joe standing there, some of the people in the bar began cheering him on, their hero. Joe smiled and waved at their gratitude while Brickowski looked around the town’s folk, irritated by their outward appreciation for someone he knew was a monster. Brickowski opted to leave, getting up from the bar stool, throwing down the money he owed, then walked past Joe and through the door. Joe bid everyone in the bar a farewell before going after his partner, grabbing Brickowski on the shoulder after quickly catching up to him. Brickowski swatted away Joe’s arm and yelled; “Don’t touch me!”

Joe: “Brickowski, what’re you doing here?! Drinking in uniform , are you serious ?!”

Officer Brickowski: “I don’t need no lip from you… freak .”

Joe: “What… Wait a minute…”

Officer Brickowski: “I know what you are.”

Joe: “Brickowski… what’re you talking about?”

Officer Brickowski snickered, he then got close to Joe, his root beer breath snuffing out Joe’s clean air.

Officer Brickowski: “ I know what you are. One of them , one of those things that ruin everything… take good people away from us normal folk. Monsters .”

Joe was stunned silent.

Joe: “...How did you… know?”

Officer Brickowski: “I saw you Einstein , back at the explosion. Nobody else knows this and they don’t care to know which drives me crazy . They just keep clapping when they see your ugly face, singing your praises. And you know why? Because they don’t care, they only care that you saved their lives. But I know the truth, that you’re not one of us.”

Joe: “I am–.”

Brickowski chuckled, interrupting Joe’s attempted rebuttal.

Officer Brickowski: “You’re not one of us. Ever since that damn explosion nothing’s the same… no-one’s the same. But us normal folk can still hold on to what humanity we got left before that dreaded day comes and we lose that forever. Like you.”

Joe tried to speak but couldn’t find the words.

Officer Brickowski: “I’m going home–.”

Joe: “No– no, you have to come in! The captain–!”

Officer Brickowski: “I said I’m going home! I don’t care what you tell the Captain– make something up, you’re a smart kid. But I want you out of this town and if you don’t leave… I’m gonna have to do something about that.”

Brickowski walked off and when he was a few inches away, Joe called out to him, asking; “The ‘certain people’ you mentioned to me before. They’re the ones you were talking about, right?”

Officer Brickowski: “Like I said… you’re a smart kid.”

Brickowski then walked off, entering his personal car and Joe watched as he drove away.

(Pokey Oaks, The Town of Citiesville, Day). The Wrecking Crew were walking up the staircase which led to Claw’s office. Their heavy duty boots stomped down on each step as they ascended, the jingling of the weapons they carried resonating in the air with each step.

Dialogue:

Wreck: “So dah boss called all of us up? Why?”

Jack: “Maybe it was because of the news we saw on the television set about our ol buddy Phil.”

Crow: “I kinda miss Phil, he was the reason why I got that loan. Used to be such a great guy. Oh well.”

Jack: “Mhm. Hey, we’re coming up on the third to last step.”

Their stomps spontaneously transformed into soft footsteps as if they were stepping on feathers, quieting their steps as they approached Claw’s office. Claw was inside, staring at his wall of assortments while smoking his cigar and listening to his smooth jazz, as per usual. The Wrecking Crew knocked once and entered as quietly as they usually do after they were given permission to enter.

Jack: “Uh hey, we’re here.”

Claw: “It seems Phil has turned himself in.”

Jack: “Why do you think he did it, Mr. Claw?”

Claw: “Obviously he’s hiding from me. Going into the arms of the men who vowed to serve and protect, typical. He thinks it will keep me away but it looks like he did forget my plan for him.”

Wreck: “So uh, what do ya want us tuh do now? What’s dah next play?”

Claw: “We continue with the plan, of course. Crow, what’re the other achievements of Mr. Anthropist?”

Crow quickly put on his glasses and took out his signature notebook, skipping through some of the pages.

Crow: “The Clumpkins Department Store is a good one. What do you think, Claw sir?”

Claw: “It is. You know what to do.”

Wreck: “What about that Joe guy, eh? What if he tries tuh stop us again?”

Jack bumped Wreck on the arm, telling him; “Shut up, Wreck!”

Wreck: “Uh sorry, boss man.”

Claw: “Shut up, Wreck.”

Wreck: “Ok.”

Claw: “We will proceed with the Clumpkins Department Store.”

Jack: “Aye aye, Mr. Claw.”

Claw flashed them away and the men nodded with Wreck adding on a playful salute. They then quietly left the room so Claw could return to smoking his cigar and listening to his music.

(Pokey Oaks County, The Town of Townsville, Day). Joe drove back to the precinct in the squad car and parked it, stepping out of the car a defeated man. Joe closed the car door behind him but couldn’t find the strength to walk, his mind was racing with thoughts of what Brickowski could do with such information.

Dialogue:

Joe: “What am I going to do?”

Joe was knocked back into reality by the captain’s voice; “Jeralds! Where’s Brickowski?!” Captain Tennyson was standing by the steps, projecting his voice from feets away.

Joe: “He uh… He–!”

Captain Tennyson: “Speak up or come closer, Jeralds!”

Joe did the second action, walking towards the front steps with the little energy he managed to muster.

Captain Tennyson: “Now, where’s Brickowski?!”

Joe: “He’s uh… he said he wasn’t feeling well. He’s home right now… getting better.”

Captain Tennyson let out a heavy sigh as he rubbed the bridge of his nose. Afterwards however, the captain did pick up on Joe’s less chipper demeanour.

Captain Tennyson: “Jeralds… you alright?”

Joe: “Hm? Oh– ye– yea… I’m fine.”

Captain Tennyson gazed into Joe’s eyes but Joe quickly looked away from his stare, repeating his prior sentiment; “I’m fine , captain.” The captain shook his head softly but decided to heed Joe’s words of assurance.

Captain Tennyson: “Alright. Just uh, just get back on your beat.”

Joe: “Yes, sir.”

The captain went back inside the station. Officer Perez called out to Joe and when Joe looked up the steps, he saw Perez, his partner Enguells and Helen coming down them.

Joe: “What’s going on?”

Officer Perez: “The dance is over, Major and I’m bringing her back home. I did it before eleven too, just like you said.”

Joe chuckled.

Officer Perez: “It was a pleasure, Ms. Troy.”

Helen Troy: “Likewise.”

Officer Perez: “C’mon, Enguells, we got a job to do.”

Officer Perez and his partner then walked off with Enguells, commenting; “Right behind ya, partner.”

Helen Troy: “So– Hey, where’s Officer Brickowski? Did you not find him?”

Joe: “No no, I did. He just wasn't feeling well. He had to uh, he had to go home.”

Helen Troy: “Could I perhaps fill in for Brickowski?”

Joe: “Thank you for offering but I’m fine on my own. I could drive you home instead? I’m going on my beat so it’s no trouble at all.”

Helen Troy looked around, eyeing her car that was a few feet down the street. Joe spotted the car as well, quickly adding to the deal; “I can ask Pepper to drive your car back to your house for you.” Helen chuckled.

Helen Troy: “It’s fine, I can pick it up tomorrow. Now, I claim shotgun.”

The two then shared a smile. Joe and Helen were in the fromer’s squad car, going through the Townsville streets. Their destination, the residence of Helen Troy.

Helen Troy: “You know, I was just trying to talk to Phil but… he won’t see me.”

Joe: “Helen… I’m sorry.”

Helen Troy: “I also learned that ever since last night, people are becoming skeptical about the Sonitrain. More and more people are unwilling to take it because of its connection to him.”

Joe: “We don’t know if Mr. Anthropist is a criminal, just that he wants to be incarcerated.”

Helen Troy: “It is still suspicious, Joseph. Enough for people to see it in a negative light.”

Joe: “Well– and hear me out here, is it impossible to take something evil and use it to make good?”

Helen Troy: “Of course you can, that’s not my issue. It’s the person who is stuck with that evil, not knowing what they were given and now having to make that into good.”

Joe: “Well, I know you can do it. You’re a capable person, Helen, which is shown through your work. I know that your situation wasn't the best but like I said, we don’t know if he did anything yet so for now… just focus on the good. Hm?”

Helen Troy: “I will. Thank you and my apologies. I don’t like being vulnerable, it’s a waste of time honestly.”

Joe: “No it’s not. How else are we going to understand one another?”

Helen Troy: “Hm. I’ll take that in mind, Joseph.”

Joe: “I’ll hold you to that.”

Helen chuckled.

Helen Troy: “Seriously, thank you for driving me home and talking. I needed that.”

Joe started saying; “Just doing my duty.” and to his shock, Helen parroted his words in perfect sync. They both then shared a good laugh.

Joe: “I say that a lot, huh?”

Helen Troy: “It’s like a motto. I like it.”

Joe: “More like a catchphrase. Speaking of which, you think it’ll catch on?”

Helen Troy: “Not a chance.”

Joe: “Too corny, huh?”

Helen Troy: “No it’s just… too you . I can’t really see anyone but you saying that, Joseph. And I don’t think I would want to.”

Joe was lost in Helen’s eyes, cheeks slowly becoming beet red and mouth slightly agape.

Helen Troy: “Joseph, the road.”

Joe stuttered out; “Oh right! Sorry.” as he quickly turned his head forward and straightened his car’s path. As they continued on, Joe got the thought of my telling Helen about his secret. He thought that since Brickowski knew and he didn’t know what his so-called partner would do with that information, maybe getting someone on his side wouldn’t be a bad thing. However, he was terrified, unsure of how Helen would take this information, wondering if she would act the same way Brickowski did.

Joe: “...Uh, Helen?”

Helen Troy: “Yes, Joseph?”

Joe: “I uh…”

Joe was silent for a moment which made Helen a bit worried. He was thinking back to the research he did and ridicule he found, his talk with Perez which exposed his mindset on the matter and his prior standoff with Brickowski. His mind was racing and once again, Joe felt isolated.

Helen Troy: “Joseph? Are you ok?”

Joe: “Hm? Oh uh… nothing. Nevermind.”

Helen was confused as a slight melancholic expression appeared on her face. They arrived at Helen’s home; a small house somewhere within a housing scheme in the town’s square. It was a two story house with five windows and painted white with green shingles for the roof. It also had a lush green front yard decorated with marigolds. Joe got out of the car and opened the door for Helen who gave him a kiss on the check as thanks.

Helen Troy: “Be careful out there, Joseph.”

Joe: “I uh– I will.”

Helen smiled then walked away and Joe watched her walk all the way to the house as he caressed the cheek she kissed. Helen turned to Joe and gave him one last wave before going back inside. Joe went back in his squad car and drove off, smiling as he cruised down the street. Unfortunately, his happy demeanour slowly shifted into a saddened one when Brickowski once again crossed his mind, ruling it. Joe sighed but he continued on.

_____________________________

Brickowski was back in his house, stepping through the door where he was greeted by his son who wheeled his chair up to his father. Brickowski took a knee so he could hug his child. Brickowski asked; “How was school, kiddo?” His son Jeff responded; “It was great, Mom taught me about _____!” Brickowski was confused as he couldn’t hear the last thing his son said. However, he didn’t have time to ponder as his wife Carol entered the room. Brickowski stood back up as his wife approached him and planted a kiss on him.

Jeff: “Mom! Dad! Gross!”

Brickowski and Carol brushed off their son’s discomfort with a laugh as Brickowski himself rustled his son’s shoulder length blonde hair. Brickowski told his son; “We’re still young, Jeffy. We’re going to do these things.” Brickowski was right, he had all his hair, no wrinkles and was thinner. Carol bumped Brickowski, adding; “But we’ll be more considerate, ok?” Brickowski laughed, then conceded; “Alright, alright.” Brickowski kept laughing until he realised that his wife and son had disappeared and when he looked into a mirror that floated before him, he saw that he was older and that he was losing his hair as well as gaining wrinkles. He then heard his wife’s voice from upstairs, yelling down at him; “You won’t even look at him, Micheal!” His wife came down, her blonde hair was greying, bouncing up and down as she stomped down the stairs. She glared at Micheal, her big bright eyes sporting the most intense scowl.

Micheal: “That is not fair, Carol!”

Carol: “Not fair?! Not fair?! Our son losing the love of his father because of something that is out of his control is not fair !”

Carol walked up to Micheal and continued; “You understand that those things are inside us too, right?! They’re inside everyone ! Which means we could change too! Forever! That damn explosion changed all of us, Micheal! Do you get that?!”

Brickowski tried to find the words but they were well hidden at first.

Micheal: “...Carol, he has… tentacles.”

Micheal noticed Carol slowly backing away from him, prompting him to reach out for her but she quickly swatted his hand away.

Carol: “...That right there… That’s why he’s not here right now… and why we’re leaving.”

Micheal: “Wait… what?”

Carol didn’t answer and several suitcases, packed with clothes and other essentials suddenly appeared next to her.

Micheal: “You can’t– you can’t be serious! Just because I can’t–! Do you get that seeing my son like that is hard for me?! What, do you expect me to just pretend like nothing’s wrong?! Huh?! Like he isn’t just some kind of monster?!”

Carol: “No! …No, I don’t. Of course I don’t but I expect you to work past it to where you can not see him as a monster but as who he once was… your son !”

Micheal: “Our son is a monster , Carol! You see them, they wreck everything and everyone !”

Carol: “And you think our son is just like them, do you?!”

Micheal: “He almost killed us that day! You remember, right?!”

Carol: “That wasn’t his fault, Micheal!”

Tears began to fill Carol’s eyes, making her vision a bit blurry, looking like rain on a camera lens.

Carol: “...Our son is not a monster, Micheal!”

Micheal: “No… he wasn’t .”

Carol just stared at Micheal with wide eyes, as she couldn't believe the words that were coming from her husband’s mouth. Micheal gasped as Carol and her luggage had suddenly disappeared.

Micheal: “Wha– Carol?!”

Looking to his left, he saw Carol standing by the front door, her hand on the knob. They shared one last look before she opened the door and walked into the blinding orange light beyond it, disappearing forever.

_____________________________

(Brickowski Residence, Interior). Brickowski woke up; now finding himself back in his chair at home. He was surrounded by empty root beer bottles, dressed in nothing but his underwear as the radio played in the background. He lifted his right arm, aiming to rub his head but realising that he was holding onto a half empty bottle of root beer. Brickowski grimaced, he then finished the bottle in two gulps before throwing the empty bottle against the wall in a fit of rage with it then shattering to pieces on impact. Brickowski then held his head in hands, taking a deep breath in and out through his mouth, his beer breath polluting the air around him only for a moment before it dissipated. The radio suddenly switched from the regular programming to a breaking news report from the usual newscaster Brock Bachman.

Dialogue:

Brickowski: “Hm?”

Brock Bachman: “...We bring you terrible news… There had been an explosion at the Clumpkins Department Store, the entire building was destroyed and around… 89 lives were taken.”

Brickowski’s eyes widened in shock and he shot up to his feet, frozen still like a block of ice.

Brock Bachman: “...An incident very similar to the bomb attempt at the Sonitrain Reveal just days prior. The Clumpkins Department Store was also another thing tied to Mr. Phil Anthropist who’s currently in police custody. Unfortunately, this attempt was… successful. At this point there is no suspect but the Townsville Police are currently in search as well as trying to find any witnesses. This is a horrifying day in our town’s history. I ask you for a moment of silence for the deceased.”

Brickowski was still frozen, dripping with confusion and sadness for the fallen but there came an added feeling to the group of emotions and that was rage. He stormed over to the sofa where he dropped his police uniform. He took his shirt, holding up and staring at it.

Brock Bachman: “Thank you. This was Brock Bachman for Townsville News… good day.”

Brickowski’s teeth were clenched tight and his eyes were red with anger as he began growling under his breath.

(Townsville Police Department, Interior). The station was in a frenzy, all the available officers were scrambling in response to the explosion, carrying out orders as they ran throughout the lobby. Officer Perez and Officer Enguells returned to pandemonium on the orders of the captain.

Dialogue:

Officer Enguells: “It’s a madhouse in here!”

Officer Perez: “Of course it is, people just died.”

Officer Perez noticed Joe running around just like any other officer present, calling out to him as he and Enguells walked up.

Joe: “Perez… you heard, right?”

Officer Perez: “...Yea, we did. You seen the captain?”

Joe: “He’s in the office, taking and making calls.”

The captain came out of his office, yelling to the trio; “Perez! Enguells! Jeralds! What’re you standing around for?! You got work to do?!”

 Joe: “Yes, sir! Sorry, sir!”

Captain Tennyson: “Pepper! White! We need officers on the scene, now!”

Officer Pepper: “Yes, sir!”

Joe, Perez and Enguells were making their way back into the fold while Pepper and White were walking towards the front door. While in the crowd of scrambling officers, Joe suddenly stopped which got the attention of the other two. Within the craziness around him, Joe was hearing something, a voice calling out, a voice that was unfortunately being cancelled out by everything else. However, he picked up on this voice.

Officer Enguells: “Major, we gotta move!”

Officer Perez: “Hold on, Enguells. Joe… you alright!? What’s wrong?”

Joe: “I don’t…”

Dissecting the voice he was earring, Joe figured out who it was.

Joe: “Mr. Anthropist?”

Officer Perez: “Anthropist? What about him?”

Joe: “You guys go, I need to talk to the captain.”

Officer Perez: “Alright.”

Joe then made his way towards the captain’s office. He was at the door, listening in on Captain Tennyson on the phone, finding that he was speaking with Mayor Hartfield. The captain was pacing before his desk, the words “Yes” and “No” leaving his mouth at certain intervals, seemingly getting more stressed as the conversation went along. Eventually the captain finished the call, hung up the phone and let out a heavy sigh.

Joe: “Uh, cap–?”

Captain Tennyson: “Jeralds, the heck are you still doing here?!”

Joe: “I’m sorry captain but it’s Mr. Anthropist.”

Captain Tennyson: “Phil? What about ‘em?”

Meanwhile, in the station’s lockup, Phil was in his cell, standing by the bars and yelling to speak to someone.

Phil: “Hello?! Anyone there?! What’s happening?!”

Captain Tennyson: “What’s with all the hollerin’, Phil?!”

Captain Tennyson and Joe had come down from the lobby, standing before Phil’s cell. Joe noticed that the man appeared more disheveled after just one day; he had bags under his tired eyes, his clothes loosen, he was grease ridden from the sweat and his mustache became bushy and wild.

Phil: “Jedidiah, finally someone heard me! There was so much noise up there, I had to scream so loud that I almost lost my voice!”

Captain Tennyson looked Joe’s way for a moment, wondering how he heard the man calling out but he brushed it off, deciding to focus on Phil

Joe: “What’s the matter, Mr. Anthropist?”

Phil: “What happened? What’s going on?”

Captain Tennyson: “Phil, Clumpkins went up.”

Phil’s grip on the bars quickly loosened and he slowly backed away from the shock.

Phil: “Went… up? What’re you–?”

Joe: “There was an explosion… 89 lives were lost.”

Captain Tennyson: “This is the second explosion that– in some way, can be tied to you, Phil. So, what are you not tellin’ us?”

Phil began tearing up and through his mumbling sobs, he uttered; “I’m… sorry.”

Captain Tennyson: “Phil, what did you do?”

Phil: “Nothing! I didn’t do– …I don’t…”

Phil took a deep breath after wiping away his tears.

Phil: “The two explosions… I know… I know who’s responsible. It’s the same person who threatened me in my home last night–.”

Joe: “So, someone is after you.”

Phil: “Yes… it’s a ‘once business partner’ .”

Captain Tennyson got closer to the bars and asked; “Who. Is. It?”

Phil: “...A man– A man who goes by Claw.”

Joe: “ Claw? ”

Captain Tennyson: “I heard of ‘em before, he lives in Citiesville– a big shot. Although, I’ve never heard his name whenever crime’s involved. I had my suspicions because of course but…”

Joe: “So he’s either clean or made sure to clean up after himself.”

Phil: “The last one… definitely the last one. He’s not a Citiesville native, he swooped in when it was but a settlement– when it was only starting to become the town it is today. He planted his roots and grew his power as the town itself grew.”

Captain Tennyson: “Is he a benefactor, like Morbucks?”

Phil: “No… he’s not that kind.”

Joe: “And this Claw was also behind the bomb attempt on the Sonitrain?”

Phil: “Yes, he was.”

Joe remembered the voices he heard inside the silver limo he saw that day, realising that it was indeed Claw who was in attendance.

Captain Tennyson: “What do you have to do with Claw, Phil?”

Phil: “Claw is just– he’s a powerful man. A powerful man that I’ve done ‘business’ with over the course of years… He’s actually the reason why I have my current economic status.”

Captain Tennyson: “You got your money from the person who killed 89 people?”

Phil: “...I’m sorry.”

Joe: “Can you tell us what else you were involved with?”

Phil: “A lot of things, a lot of really bad things. Claw is a dangerous man and I was right there with him.”

Captain Tennyson: “He’s trying to wreck the things you built, ain’t he? You went on the straight and narrow but Claw didn’t like that very much, he wants you to remember– just like you said, that you were right there with ‘em.”

Phil softly nodded his head.

Phil: “He– he’s going to strike again, Jedidiah. I’ve established quite a few developments in this town so this just… this is just the tip of the iceberg.”

Joe: “Then the only way to stop him is to confess everything he did but that would mean–.”

Phil: “That I would incriminate myself in the process. I’ve had blood on my hands but not because of him but because I chose to work for him. That’s how he got away with stuff for the most part, he let everyone around him commit acts in his name, never getting his hands completely dirty. I’m already a criminal.”

Captain Tennyson gripped the cell bars and with a soft but deep and gravelly voice, he told Phil; “You are going to tell us everything . Got it?”

Phil: “I… I understand.”

Joe suddenly looked to his left, towards the door that led back up to the lobby and announced; “Brickowski?”

Captain Tennyson: “Brickowski? Jeralds, how’re you doin’ that?”

Joe: “I had my uh– I had my ears cleaned recently. Listen captain, I think something’s wrong, we should go.”

Captain Tennyson: “Hm. Let’s get going then.”

The two went back up to the lobby where they saw almost, if not every officer in the situation, all aiming their guns at Brickowski who was pointing his standard issue gun right back at them.

Captain Tennyson: “Brickow– Brickowski, what in the Sam Hell are ya doin’?!”

Nociting Joe, Brickowski quickly pointed his gun at him.

Officer Brickowski: “There you are!”

Joe: “Brickowski–.”

Officer Brickowski: “Why are you still here?!”

Officer Perez: “The heck?! Brickowski, what the heck are you talking about?!”

Officer Brickowski: “I told you to leave this town, Jeralds! I told you to leave and never come back!”

Joe: “I’m not going anywhere, Brickowski. I told you about my mission when I got here and now nothing’s gonna stop me… not even you, officer .”

Officer Brickowski: “Shut up!”

Joe: “...Never.”

Captain Tennyson: “I can’t believe we're back here again– and one of my officers no less! Brickowski, put down the gun! Now! ”

Officer Brickowski: “Captain, you have a freak– a monster in this damn station!”

Joe jolted from Brickowski’s declaration, a quick shock of what felt like electricity instantly ran through his body.

Officer Brickowski: “Don’t you all get it?! Joe threw the bomb clear into the air and he survived another explosion after that!”

Officer Perez: “More like barely survived. He was in the hospital for five days, man!”

Officer Brickowski: “Then what about the bomb he flung clear into the sky like it was nothing !”

Captain Tennyson glanced at Joe for a second and then answered; “Farmsville has good stock.”

Officer Brickowski: “Bullshi–!”

Captain Tennyson: “That is enough , Brickowski!”

Officer Brickowski: “No! No! He’s a monster, just like those things that destroy this damn town every time they come around! Can’t you see?! Ever since he got here, everything has gone to heck!”

Officer Perez: “Wait… you think that Joe is one of those things? An E.V.O.?”

Officer Brickowski: “Isn’t it obvious?!”

Some of the officers were looking Joe’s way, making him even more nervous but he still stood his ground.

Joe: “Brickowski, it isn’t too late. You can stop this right now or…”

Joe placed his hand on his holster and continued; “I’m going to be forced to stop you myself.”

Captain Tennyson: “Not without my command, Jeralds!”

Joe: “Captain–.”

Captain Tennyson:”You heard what I said, right?! Don’t act like you suddenly own this station, got it?!”

Joe released his gun, calming his arm.

Joe: “...Yes, sir.”

Brickowski now saw that all the officers were eyeing him.

Officer Brickowski: “Wait… you’re not buying his crap, are you?!”

The room was quiet, not a word uttered and Brickowski saw this as a sign of distrust against him which flared up an intense rage within.

Officer Brickowski: “I’ll prove it to you!”

Joe: “Brickowski!”

Brickowski, in one quick motion, pointed the gun at Joe and fired. To Joe, the bullet was flying through the air slower than it actually was but he needed to work fast. Joe saw that the captain stepped before him for protection and that Perez was about to pull the trigger of his own gun. Joe grabbed a staple from a desk nearby and threw it at Perez’s arm, obstructing his shot but now, the bullet meant for him was closer than before. Joe barely had time to push Captain Tennyson out of the way so he could take the shot which struck him in the left thigh. Everyone just saw Joe collapse to the ground in pain. Brickowski flinched from Perez’s bullet that struck next to his feet while the captain was confused on why he moved when he never remembered moving. Captain Tennyson looked back and saw Joe clutching his thigh, trying to stop the bleeding.

Captain Tennyson: “Did it go through?!”

Joe: “Ye– yea.”

Officer Perez was staring at his gun, confused on how he missed his clear shot when he heard the mad howlings of Brickowski.

Officer Brickowski: “WHAT?!! THIS IS– THIS IS NOT RIGHT?!!”

Captain Tennyson, who was now kneeled down to comfort Joe, barked; “SHUT UP!!!” as he pointed his finger at Brickowski.

Captain Tennyson: “Perez! Enguells! Get ‘em outta here!”

The two men rushed up to Brickowski and snatched the gun from his hand while putting their fellow officer in cuffs.

Officer Brickowski: “NO!!! NO!!! LET ME  GO, DAMMIT!!! I SAW HIM!!! I SAW HIM THERE!!! THE BOMB WENT OFF AND IT DID NOTHING–!!!”

Captain Tennyson: “GET. HIM. OUTTA HERE!!!”

Captain Tennyson turned his attention back to Joe and asked; “You alright?” with a calming voice. Joe looked the captain in the eyes but Captain Tennyson noticed a change in Joe’s stare when he answered; “Ye– yea.”

Captain Tennyson: “...Alright.”

Officer Perez, as he and Enguells were escorting the rabid Brickowski away, glanced back at Joe.

Officer Enguells: “Perez, you good?”

Officer Perez: “Hm? Oh– yea, yea.”

Officer Brickowski: “You believe me, don’t you?”

Officer Perez: “What?”

Officer Brickowski: “You do, you believe me! He’s a monster, just like them !”

Officer Enguells: “That’s enough outta you, Brickowski!”

Officer Brickowski: “He walked away from–!”

Officer Enguells: “ From an explosion? Get real, will ya?! He wasn’t near the explosion but even then, he still was in the hospital for five straight days! Right, Perez?”

Officer Perez: “Uh, ye– yea.”

Perez and Enguells then escorted Brickowski out of the station’s lobby and into lockup.

(Townsville Hospital, Interior). Joe was sitting on the edge of a hospital bed, waiting for his doctor to enter the room. His left leg was covered in medical gauze and a crutch was leaning on the edge of the bed next to him. Joe was staring down on his cast, thinking about the events that got him here; the sudden burst of that allowed him to save so many people on two occasions, the apparent negative view against E.V.O.s and him possibly being one which drove his former partner to pull a gun at him. For the first time, Joe was experiencing something he wasn’t familiar with, he was experiencing unassurance. The doctor then stepped through the door, taking Joe out of his trance.

Dialogue:

Dr. Clark: “Good afternoon, I’m Dr. Clark.”

Dr. Clark was a tall dark skinned man with red framed glasses, a yellow undershirt under his pale green scrubs, complete with a bright white lab coat.

Joe: “Hello, I’m–.”

Dr. Clark: “Joseph Jeralds, of course.”

The doctor waved around the file he had in his hand, saying; “I do have your file.”

Joe: “Oh, right.”

Dr. Clark: “On top of that, you’ve been that talk of the town, Major .”

Joe let out a nervous chuckle.

Dr. Clark: “Well, everything looks fine. Interestingly the bullet didn’t pierce through your thigh, only the skin– the epidermis to be exact. I understand that you were here last time.”

Joe: “Yes, I was.”

Dr. Clark: “And those injuries that would normally take at least a month or two to heal, only took you five days.”

Joe: “I’ve heard that Farmsville has good stock.”

Dr. Clark: “ Mhm . Well, that leg should be healed in a week– of three days but considering your feats, who knows really.”

Joe: “Like I said…”

Dr. Clark, in perfect sync with Joe, parroted his sentiment; “Farmsville has good stock.”

Joe: “You know, that’s the second time that happened to me today.”

Dr. Clark: “Mhm.”

Joe: “So, am I free to go?”

Dr. Clark: “Yea, you’re discharged from the hospital.”

Joe was wheeled out the front door of the hospital by Nurse Loulabelle even though he told her that he was willing to walk. Nurse Loulabelle answered with; “It’s hospital protocol, Mr. Jeralds.” Joe reluctantly accepted the escort to the front doors where he was met by Helen Troy’s car pulling up.

Nurse Loulabelle: “ Aw , Ms. Troy is here. I wonder who she’s here to see? ”

Joe let out another nervous chuckle. Nurse Loulabelle helped Joe onto his feet before they were then approached by Helen Troy herself, having stepped out of her car.

Helen Troy: “Good afternoon, Nurse Loulabelle.”

Nurse Loulabelle: “Nice to see ya again, Ms. Troy.”

Helen nodded, she then turned to Joe and greeted him with a more soft and slightly sultry voice.

Helen Troy: “Hello again, Joseph.”

Joe: “Good afternoon, Ms. Troy.”

Nurse Loulabelle wanted to help Joe out of the wheelchair but he told her; “It’s alright, Nurse Loulabelle, I have it.” The nurse shrugged and answered; “Adamant, eh? Alrighty.”

Nurse Loulabelle: “Alright, I’ll take my leave.”

Nurse Loulabelle went back into the hospital, pushing the wheelchair back through the doors.

Joe: “Um, you’re here and you got your car.”

Helen Troy: “I told you, I would pick it up.”

Joe: “Didn’t you say tomorrow?”

Helen Troy: “Well, it’s not like you have a way to get home, do you?”

Joe: “Hm, I supposed not. Thank you, Ms. Troy.”

Helen Troy: “It’s no problem, Joseph. By the way, you don’t have to keep calling me, Ms. Troy .”

Joe: “Of course… Helen.”

Helen smiled.

Helen Troy: “Come on, let’s get you home so you can rest.”

(Townsville Police Department, Interior). The station’s lobby was crowded with officers cleaning up the aftermath of what had transpired, which only compounded them having to respond to the explosion of the Clumpkins Department Store. A couple forensic officers, wearing hazmat suits, were casing the spot where Joe had gotten shot, looking for the bullet he was shot with but coming up short. One of the forensics officers asked aloud for the missing bullet. However, they were met with ignorance of its whereabouts.

Dialogue:

Captain Tennyson: “Hold on, you’re sayin’ that bullet that Jeralds was just shot by is missin’?”

The forensic officer answered; “We don’t– yes sir.” The captain let out a heavy sigh as he rubbed the bridge of his nose.

Captain Tennyson: “One of my officers shot another and he’s now in lockup, one of Townsville aristocrats is actually a criminal and we still have an explosion to respond to!”

Officer Enguells: “Sir?”

Captain Tennyson: “Just blowin’ off some steam, Enguells. I’m alright. Just… just get back to work.”

Officer Enguells: “Wait sir… it’s Mr. Anthropist, he’s ready to confess.”

Captain Tennyson: “...Yea.”

The captain then went into his office. The forensics officers went back to searching for the bullet, still coming up short because unbeknownst to them, it was actually in the possession of Officer Perez. He had quickly snatched it before the forensics team came through. Officer Perez quickly walked to the bathroom, locking the door behind him, going up to the mirror and taking the bullet out of his pocket.

Officer Perez: “What the…?”

The pointed part of the bullet, the tip had been flattened like instead of skin, it had actually struck metal.

Officer Perez: “Joe… what is going on?”

(The Muscular Arms Apartment Complex, Interior). The elevator opened, revealing Joe and Helen within its golden brown interior. Joe had his crutch under his right arm to prop himself up even though he could feel the bullet wound currently healing. The fear of the thoughts of others still ruling not only his mind but also his actions. Helen went under his left arm, pressing against Joe’s body, the action making him flinch as she rested his arm on her shoulder.

Dialogue:

Joe: “Helen, what’re you doing?”

Helen Troy: “What’re you asking? I’m helping you.”

Helen helped Joe out of the elevator and down the hallway.

Joe: “Helen, you don’t have to–.”

Helen Troy: “For the last time, Joseph. I want to help you.”

Joe smiled and reluctantly replied; “Alright.” The duo arrived at Joe’s apartment door where Helen asked for Joe’s keys. He dug into his right pocket, took out his keys and placed it in Helen’s outstretched hand. She unhooked herself from under Joe’s arm, turned the key and opened the door. Helen placed Joe’s keys back into his hand and presented the open door with a hand gesture. Helen then helped Joe through the door, stopping a few feet from the doorway.

Joe: “Hm… Thank you, Helen.”

Helen Troy: “You’re welcome, Joseph.”

Helen, still under Joe’s arm, placed her left hand on Joe's chest, looking into his eyes.

Joe: “Uh, Helen?”

Helen Troy: “Yes, Joseph.”

Joe: “I uh… um.”

Helen Troy: “Hm?”

Joe: “I uh… You might wanna let go of me since ya know– I just came from the hospital. So, ya know, germs .”

Helen did back away but she also let out a slight snicker.

Helen Troy: “You want to tell me something, Joseph. I saw in your eyes today and just now.”

Joe: “Helen…”

Helen Troy: “It’s alright, Joseph. I’m not going to force you to tell me what it is. It’s obvious that you’re going through a lot.”

Helen pointed at Joe’s leg and said; “Physically…” She then looked into Joe’s eyes and concluded; “And mentally.”

Helen Troy: “Whenever you’re ready, Joseph. Whenever you’re ready to talk about what’s bothering you– whatever it is… I’m here. It’s my turn to help you, Joseph. You’re not alone in this.”

Joe: “I… yea.”

Helen Troy nodded.

Helen Troy: “Goodnight, Joseph.”

Joe: “Goodnight, Helen.”

When Helen turned to walk out the door, Joe felt everything in his body screaming, as if his body was hurting from Helen walking away. Everything in him was telling him to just open up, but he forced himself to do otherwise and all he could do was watch Helen leave. Helen had stepped out of the elevator, going into the lobby. Her mind was still on her conversation with Joe when she ended up bumping into Officer Perez, still in uniform and who had just entered the apartment.

Helen Troy: “Officer Perez, my apologies. I was… distracted.”

Officer Perez: “So this was why you didn’t hang out after the dance.”

Helen chuckled.

Helen Troy: “Caught me red handed, I suppose.”

Officer Perez: “Heard you helped Joe back to his cave, appreciate you going through the trouble.”

Helen Troy: “It was the least I could do.”

Officer Perez: “Hm. Well, I’m going up to meet him.”

Helen Troy: “Of course.”

Officer Perez tipped his hat at Helen before walking off. Helen looked back at Perez going into the elevator and a second before the doors closed, she caught a glimpse, a shift in his expression from jovial to stoic which caught her off guard. Joe was sitting on the edge of his bed, his crutch set next to him, looking down at his leg. He could feel the pain from the wound but he could also feel it already healing. Joe heard a knock on the door, getting up to answer it and when he opened the door, Officer Perez was on the other side.

Joe: “Perez? What’re you doing here?”

Officer Perez: “What, can’t I check up on my friend?”

Joe: “Uh yea yea. Uh… come in.”

Perez entered Joe’s apartment, making the comment; “I thought I would have to ask.”

Joe: “So uh… what’s up?”

Officer Perez: “You and Helen a thing? Going steady, are ya?”

Joe chuckled, then responded; “No, nothing like that… I think.”

Officer Perez: “Mhm. Never saw never, I guess.”

Joe: “You want some root beer, man? I bought a six pack from Pesos.”

Officer Perez: “No, I’m good. Actually, I’m here because I wanted to ask you a question.”

Joe: “About what?”

Officer Perez took out the bullet Joe was shot with, showing how its tip was flattened.

Joe: “...Perez, what’s that?”

Officer Perez: “It’s a bullet, Joe. The one you were shot with. I thought you told the captain that it went through. Did you lie?”

Joe: “No– I…”

Officer Perez: “Joe, look at the bullet! Look at it!”

Officer Perez got closer to Joe, holding up the bullet to him.

Joe: “...What do you want me to say?”

Officer Perez: “What do you mea–! Was Brickowski right, huh?! He said that he saw you at the Sonitrain, how you survived!”

Joe: “I don’t know what exactly Brickowski saw–.”

Officer Perez: “You mind telling me ? That explosion was huge and yea, you didn’t walk away unscathed but after five days, you were back on the field like nothing happened.”

Officer Perez took a breath.

Officer Perez: “Look Joe, I don’t want to be all accusatory… I just wanna know what’s going on. Brickowski shot you, Joe. He shot you, you get that, right?”

Joe: “Of course I do! You think I don’t?! My partner shot me today, Perez! Because what?! Because of something he thought he saw?! Huh?! You said it yourself, that he changed– that he wasn't the same guy that he was before!”

Officer Perez: “I know, Joe! I know! I know that Brickowski is a real piece of work and I’m definitely not with what he did but… is there anything on your side–?”

Joe: “ My side? ”

Officer Perez: “C’mon Joe. Don’t act like something ain’t bugging you. Didn’t I say that you could talk to me anytime?”

Joe: “I thought you said you weren’t a therapist?”

Officer Perez nodded as he backed off, replying; “Ok.” Perez then pocketed the bullet and looked at Joe one last time.

Officer Perez: “Goodnight… Major.”

Joe: “...Goodnight, Perez.”

Perez walked out of the apartment, closing the door behind him, after which Joe let out a heavy breath as rubbed his eyes.

Joe: “What’re you doing, Joe?”

Joe went and sat back on the edge of his bed, he then laid down with his legs hanging off the bed, taking a moment to just think. Moments later, Joe suddenly shot from off his bed, asking himself; “What am I doing ?! I just came from the hospital for Pete’s sake! Dammit, I’m going to have to change the sheets now!” Joe helped his forehead and sighed.

Joe: “I’m going to have to wipe down everything too.”

Joe went to the bathroom, sitting down on his toilet and taking off his leg cast. After which he saw that the bullet wound had fully healed, only leaving a circular scar where the wound was. Joe ran his finger gently over the scar.

Joe: “...Why?”

Joe shook his head, got up  and went into the shower. After his shower, Joe came out of the bathroom with a towel wrapped around his waist. He went over to his bed and began taking off the sheets.

Joe: “Damn, I should’ve taken off the sheet first. Now I’m going to have to take another shower after I change them.”

On the radio, the signature voice of newscaster Brock Bachman came over the airwaves and Joe was listening to his report as he took off his bed sheets. Brock first reported on the incident between Joe and Brickowski earlier that day, Joe stopping for a moment to listen keenly.

Brock Bachman: “Brickowski is now in TPD custody awaiting trial for his actions.”

Joe felt a sense of guilt but he knew that it was ultimately Brickowski’s own doing. Brock then switched to other news, specifically bringing up more developments concerning one Phil Anthropist.

Joe: “I have a bad feeling about this.”

Brock Bachman: “We finally have a follow up to Phil Anthropist’s incarceration. It was confirmed that Mr. Anthropist has been involved in criminal activity based on his confession on multiple crimes just moments ago. These crimes include; fraud, deception, embezzlement and money laundering on top of being an accomplice to… to murder.”

Joe: “Wait… what ? Accomplice to who?”

Brock Bachman: “Mr. Anthropist has also confirmed that his current economic status has been granted to him through a man known as Claw, a rich aristocrat from our sister town Citiesville and the supposed person that Mr. Anthropist has been an accomplice to. Claw is quite well known but has never been intertwined with crime until these allegations levied at him by Mr. Anthropist. Mr. Anthropist has also alleged that Claw is also responsible for the two Townsville bombings.”

Joe looked out his window, Helen instantly coming to his mind concerning these revelations.

Joe: “...Helen.”

(The Townsville Police Department, Interior). Micheal Brickowski was sitting in a cell, stripped of his uniform, the representation of his authority as policeman, back to being a civilian. He was now dressing the part; he had on a white tank top with grease stains around the stomach and brown loose pants, basically dressed as he would be if he was at home. He was but a simple man again but as far as anyone else knew, Brickowski was a criminal , a rogue policeman who shot his fellow officer, a man awaiting trial instead of the hero he thought himself to be. Payment for his trials was all that lied ahead. Across the hallway before him was the cell of Phil Anthropist, their eyes crossed paths on multiple occasions but only for a seconds at a time as they would turn away from another, perhaps feeling guilt of their actions or the fact that these actions came back to haunt them. The silence was apparent and palpable, as if it was able to be touched and Phil tore through the thick barrier of quiet by saying the first word.

Dialogue:

Phil: “Your name is Micheal , correct?”

Micheal Brickowski: “Hm? Uh, yea. Just uh… just call me Mike.”

Phil: “Hm?”

Micheal Brickowski: “My wife… she uh, she called me Micheal.”

Phil: “I see, so it's reserved.”

Micheal Brickowski: “Guess you could say that.”

Phil: “Well… my wife, she used to call me… Philip.”

Micheal Brickowski: “What changed?”

Phil: “She left… so she couldn’t call me that anymore.”

Micheal Brickowski: “You too, huh? Uh, what happened?”

Phil: “She didn’t… like the life I made for us… and I don’t blame her. What about you?”

Micheal Brickowski: “...Doesn’t matter.”

Phil: “I see.”

A third voice interjected, startling both men and making them stare down the dark hallway. Out of the shadows, a question was asked; “Do you mind telling me your story?”

Phil: “Oh… no.”

A lanky man with grey skin and a metal hand stepped out of the dark, appearing before them was Claw.

Micheal Brickowski: “Who’re…?”

Phil: “Wha– how did you get in here?!”

Claw glanced at Phil and answered; “Mr. Anthropist, you shouldn’t be surprised. I’ve popped into your home on multiple occasions.”

Micheal Brickowski: “Wait… you’re that guy… the one that bombed the place!”

Claw: “I suppose but that’s enough about me, I want to know more about you .”

Phil: “Micheal, don’t heed his words! He’s–!”

Without looking at him, Claw said to Phil; “It would be best if you kept quiet, Mr. Anthropist. It’s bad manners to interrupt others’ conversations, is it not?” Phil backed down and Brickowski saw the man swallow his spit as he stepped away from the cell bars.

Claw: “Now, where were we?”

Micheal Brickowski: “I– what do you want with me?”

Claw: “It’s like I said, I want to get to know you– well, that wouldn’t be entirely true. I want to know more about your former colleague, the man known as Major or–.”

Micheal Brickowski: “Joe?”

Claw: “ That’s the one. You think he’s different, correct? Something more than he is?”

Micheal Brickowski: “...No-one believes me.”

Phil: “Micheal, wait… No.”

Claw: “Try me.”

Micheal Brickowski: “I saw it. Wi– with my own two eyes… he’s a damn monster! A–!”

Claw: “An Exponentially Variegated Organism or…?”

Micheal Brickowski: “E.V.O.”

Claw: “There you go. Well?”

Micheal Brickowski: “Yea… yea, he is.”

Claw started slowly pacing in front of the bars.

Claw: “It is documented that in the early years of this town, there was a wave of E.V.O. incidents leftover effects by the Abysus Incident or 1939, the Nanite Event . Sure, it wasn't the only place that was affected by the event, the entire planet was and still is affected to this day. Even my hometown isn't shy of its own incidents.”

Micheal Brickowski: “Where’s that?”

Claw stopped walking, turned his eyes to Micheal and answered; “No important, Mr. Brickowski.” That immediately made Brickowski backed down.

Claw: “Back to this, you don’t care about how this monster fest all started, you only care about the fact that Townsville was forced to suffer by these individuals. Isn’t that right, Micheal?”

Micheal nodded.

Claw: “If it wasn’t for the police force, the same one you gave your life to, Townsville would have probably been worse off, correct?”

Once again, Micheal nodded in response.

Claw: “Mhm. The police station was this town’s saving grace, the town was established in 1912– it’s been around for a long time and you didn’t want it to disappear so you dedicated your life to protecting it… More or less, in your case as of late.”

Micheal retreated a bit into the bench he was sitting on after Claw’s remark.

Claw: “And after all the time and effort you put in, some young buck from Farmsville came in and not only stole your thunder but did it under false pretenses. He had an advantage and you didn’t. That doesn’t seem fair now does it?”

Claw got closer to Micheal’s cell, his metal hand clutching the bars, the sound of metal bending from his grip made Micheal flinch.

Claw: “So, what’re you going to do about that, Mr. Brickowski?”

Phil: “Michael don’t listen to him! You shake his hand, your soul will be his forever !”

Claw: “That was rather flattering. Thank you, Mr. Anthropist.”

Micheal glanced at Phil for a moment, Phil shook his head, pleading for Micheal to reconsider but his warnings were ignored. Micheal looked up at Claw and asked; “What do you want me to do?” Claw smiled.

Claw: “You want to get back your town, right? Save it from Mr. Major himself? Well, I can help with that.”

Phil: “Michael… please !”

Claw held out his hand and after a few seconds, Micheal got from the bench, walked up and shook the man’s hand.

Claw: “Your soul is mine now, I suppose.”

Claw chuckled.

Claw: “We’ll keep in touch. As for you, Mr. Anthropist, our arrangement isn’t complete. Now, if you’ll excuse me…”

Claw looked down at Phil and concluded; “I have a train to catch.” As Claw chuckled to himself, Phil’s eyes widened as he instantly understood what Claw meant.

Phil: “Please no… not that– PLEASE!!! THE PEOPLE!!!”

Claw kept laughing as he disappeared into the darkness. Micheal heard the crying and sniffled of Phil from across the hallway which got his attention.

Phil: “I hope you get what you want… Micheal.”

Micheal Brickowski: “...Me too.”

To Be Continued

Chapter Text

(Pokey Oaks County, The Town of Townsville, Day). Joe had woken up and started his morning routine, currently in the middle of his morning jog. He was passing by the early birds of the town; the shop owners, the hard workers and those coming off graveyard shifts. The people greeted the officer as he passed by, Joe returning smiles and waves. Joe eventually came upon an open lot that spanned miles which made him curious, luckily he saw Montana Jed rolling up with his cart, parking along the sidewalk.

Dialogue:

Joe: “Morning Jed!”

Joe called out to Montana Jed as he jogged over to him.

Montana Jed: “And a good ol mornin’ to you, Joey!”

Joe: “So, what’s going on here? Do you know?”

Montana Jed: “Hm? Oh, you remember how that Morbucks fellow been in talks with china?!”

Joe: “Yea, I remember.”

Montana Jed: “Well forget about it, this here is the union between the good ol’ US of A and Japan!”

Joe looked over to the massive lot and commented; “Japan, huh?”

Montana Jed: “Yes sir! From what I hear, they’re gonna build something big on dis ‘ere lot. ‘Movin’ a piece of Japan over to ‘ere’! ”

Joe, looking over the open lot and taking a breath as he placed his hands on his hips, commented; “Things are looking up, huh Jed?”

Montana Jed: “In a way, yea.”

Joe: “Hm? What do you mean?”

Montana Jed: “Ya heard the news about Phil, right? All those crimes he’s done and the people he’s involved with? Well, people are stepping back from everything that has anything to do with ‘em. For instance…”

Montana Jed put his arm over Joe’s shoulder, pulling him close. He then pointed at a group of people standing by the bus stop across the street.

Montana Jed: “See dem over there?”

Joe: “Uh, yea.”

Montana Jed: “They ain’t takin’ the train that cuz of the whole Phil thing. Some are sure but that number’s droppin’.”

Joe: “Oh no. I’ll be seeing you, Jed.”

Montana Jed: “See ya later, Joey!”

Joe walked over to the people waiting for the bus and greeted them with a bright smile and a; “Good morning.” They all returned a greeting in kind.

Joe: “Off to work, are we?”

An Arabic man, an older gentleman named Farouk, responded on behalf of everyone; “Yea, Major.” Farouk was a short, blading man dressed in formal work wear.

Joe: “Out of town, right? Why not take the train then? It’s faster–.”

Farouk: “Is it not obvious? It was funded by a bad man, Major.”

Joe: “I know but the Sonitrain itself is a source for good– of progress.”

A Hispanic woman named Talia, responded; “It’s not that easy, Major.” Talia was a brown-skinned woman with her curly hair arranged into a long braid at the back with a mole above her ruby red lips. She had on a pale green top, gold hoop earrings, a black pencil skirt and heels.

Talia: “Some of us are going to remember that it was built by that … man.”

Joe: “Actually, it wasn’t. The train was built by men who wanted better for this town and dreamed up and executed by a woman… a great woman who wanted just the same. That train is ours, it belongs to Townsville, not Phil. We make it ours because it is.”

Farouk: “I…”

Farouk looked around at the other people and saw that they were all shutting themselves off from Joe’s perspective.

Farouk: “...I’m sorry, Major.”

Joe nodded.

Joe: “I understand. Enjoy your day.”

Joe went back to his jog, lost in his own world while the one around him slowly blurred away. Joe felt himself slipping back into that dark isolation that was chasing after him, luckily he was knocked out of his trance after spotting a small congregation at a newspaper stand. He stopped by, picking up that day’s issue of the Townsville Tribune. After paying for it, he began reading; the front page was about Phil Anthropist’s confession and how it was reported that, as it stands, he would be seeing 25 years to life. Joe thought back to Phil telling them about Claw, the one behind the bombings and the taking of the lives of 89 people.

Joe: “...This is all just a mess.”

Joe was alerted to someone asking; “Hey, could you turn that up?”, making him look up from his reading to see the man selling the paper, turning up his radio. Joe then heard Brock Bachman’s voice over the airwaves; “And the news just keeps coming, folks. As Michael Brickowski, the former officer who shot fellow officer Joseph Jeralds…”

As Joe’s name was spoken, those standing around listening to the report, recognised they were next to the man in question. Quiet mumblings of his recognition were being slung, however to Joe himself they sounded like full on conversations because of his enhanced hearing.

Brock Bachman: “Has been released from the Townsville Police Department custody just an hour ago.”

Joe: “Wait, what?!”

Brock Bachman: “With the help of lawyer Mr. Sosumi, he has been let off with the plea of a psychotic break. Mr. Brickowski did also add a comment of him ‘being in the right’ .”

Joe heard the stray; “In the right?” from the crowd.

Brock Bachman: “Because according to Brickowski himself… Joseph Jeralds is an E.V.O .”

Joe felt the tone around him shift as everyone began staring at him, either filled with fear, confusion or even anger. He heard their mumblings of concern and feelings of betrayal as he twisted and turned to look at those around him. Feeling overwhelmed, Joe ran off, heading home to change into uniform and drove out to the precinct.

(Townsville Police Department, Interior). Joe arrived at the station which was crowded by paparazzi and to his discovery, he didn't need to fight through the crowd as the journalists immediately created a path for Joe right up to the station’s front doors. It was not out of admiration but out of disdain and Joe could feel it. He reached the doors, taking a deep breath as he held onto the knob, he then pulled the door open and stepped inside where everything suddenly went quiet upon his arrival. Everywhere Joe looked, every person was staring back at him with those same eyes.

Dialogue:

Joe: “Uh… Good–.”

Captain Tennyson: “I’m gonna have to ask ya… to leave , Jeralds.”

Joe: “Sir please, let me explain.”

Officer Enguells: “Get outta ‘ere, freak!”

Captain Tennyson: “Did I give you an order to speak , Enguells?!”

Officer Enguells: “...No, sir.”

Joe looked around the lobby and saw the faces of his fellow officers, their eyes pinning him down with intense anger and hatred.

Joe: “Sir… please.”

Captain Tennyson: “Please, just go.”

Joe nodded, he turned to leave when the captain told him; “Drop your badge and gun to the ground.” Joe pleaded to the captain; “Captain, don’t let me do this.”

Captain Tennyson: “Jeralds.”

Joe spotted the officers, hands hovering over their guns with Officer Enguells in particular, already gripping onto his own firearm. Not wanting to further escalate anything, Joe did as asked and stripped himself of his gun and badge.

Captain Tennyson: “Officer Perez, get ‘em outta here.”

Officer Perez replied; “Yes, sir.” as she approached Joe and escorted him out of the building where they were met by a sea of people, journalists and civilians alike, launching their shame and rage at Joe as they made their way through. Perez guided Joe into his squad car and drove off, eventually stopping by the new open lot, parking against the curb.

Joe: “...Perez?”

Officer Perez: “You’re an E.V.O.”

Joe: “...Yes.”

Officer Perez: “The bomb you threw up in the air?”

Joe: “And the explosion at the Sonitrain… it was inches away from my face–.”

Officer Perez: “But you lived.”

Joe: “...Yes.”

Officer Perez: “When that news came over the radio, every officer in the station wanted you gone. That instantly hated you.”

Joe: “...Do you?”

Officer Perez faced Joe and replied; “...I don’t know.” Perez gave Joe that flattened bullet, saying; “Here.” After Joe took the bullet, Perez started the car and drove off.

(The Muscular Arms Apartment Complex, Day). They eventually pulled up to the Muscular Arms apartment, Joe then immediately got out of the car without Perez even saying a word. Joe walked around the car, standing by the driver’s side.

Dialogue:

Joe tugged on the collar of his police uniform and asked; “Do I… do I return these?” Officer Perez responded, without even looking; “Burn them.” and then drove off. Joe began walking up the steps towards his apartment building. On the third step, Joe suddenly came across Claw who was standing before the doors of the Muscular Arms apartment building. Joe’s sorrow instantly shifted to anger as his face transformed into an intense scowl as he stepped forward, meeting the lanky man up close.

Joe: “What the hell are you doing here?!”

Claw: “Oh, aren’t you a brave one.”

Joe: “I don’t fear evil.”

Claw: “And the flattery just keeps coming, doesn’t it?”

Joe: “It was you, wasn’t it? Is Mr. Sosumi on your payroll?! Did you get Brickowski out of lockup?!”

Claw: “Why else would I be here? I’m not buying an apartment.”

Joe: “...Why… why’re you doing this?!”

Claw: “Because you stopped me from blowing up the train.”

Joe: “Tha– that’s it?! Because I stopped you from hurting people?! Good people?! ”

Claw: “Your pure sense of honour is extremely novel. I didn’t aim to kill anyone, I just wanted to remind Phil that he is scum. Collateral damage was to be expected and to think otherwise would be foolish.”

Joe: “You–?!”

Claw: “We’re in public, Mr. Jeralds. Are you sure you want to be charged with assault? That would be worse for you considering your situation.”

Joe: “Damn you!”

Claw: “Mhm. Anyway, are you going inside to pack?”

Joe: “What?”

There was a sudden explosion in the apartment complex’s parking lot.

Claw: “And there goes your car.”

Joe glared at Claw which prompted him to reaffirm; “I didn’t do it. Some youths came by here earlier.” Joe closed his eyes and took a deep and calming breath.

Joe: “Are you aware that you’re also guilty?”

Claw: “I know but as far as anyone knows, those are just allegations– accusations , if you will. On the other hand, as far as people care , you’re the monster here.”

Joe: “...That’s why you made Brickowski out me, because you wanted eyes on me… and not you.”

Claw: “He was right, you are a smart kid. So, when do you think you’ll leave?”

Joe: “ Leave?! Oh no, I’m going to stop you!”

Claw laughed.

Claw: “ Stop me? You can’t be seen in the town right now. Didn’t you hear the news? You’re going to leave and I’m going to continue to make Phil Anthropist’s life a living hell. Now be a good boy…”

Claw got close and continued; “And walk right out of this town. Ok? I can’t have you messing up more of my plans.” Joe grabbed Claw by the collar, managing to reach his neck in spite of his tall stature and pulled him close. Claw smiled at Joe’s rage which was being balled up into a fist that was shaking violently. Suddenly, Joe felt something strike him in the back of his head, looking at the ground he saw that it was a brick. The brick had splotches of red on one of its edges. Joe unhanded Claw and felt the back of his head, turning around to see a large crowd of people, all angrily yelling at him. Joe even spotted the young woman that he bestowed a kiss onto his cheek after saving her.

Joe: “...Hildie.”

Claw: “You might want to head inside.”

Joe: “You know when I leave. All eyes are just back to you, right?”

Claw: “I know but this is Townsville and I’m a Citiesville citizen. Your police have no jurisdiction in my town and the police of Citiesville are my biggest fans.”

Joe: “Scum!”

Claw: “I didn’t argue otherwise.”

Joe saw the people grabbing more weapons and objects and sighed. He then glared at Claw before walking past him.

Claw: “E.V.O.s have claimed siege to this town but that’s just an excuse for them to hate something they do not understand. People hate and I know that all too well.”

Joe’s eyes widened.

Joe: “Are you–?”

Before Joe could finish his question, Claw walked off, saying; “I suppose I’ll be seeing you, Joseph.” Joe scoffed at Claw before yelling; “I’M GOING TO STOP YOU!!! YOU HEAR ME?!! I’M NOT LEAVING UNTIL I DO!!!” Joe entered the apartment, going inside the elevator. He was inside the golden brown interior of the elevator when he took out the bullet Perez gave him and stared at it as he ascended. The doors opened and as Joe stepped out the elevator, he heard a familiar voice.

Helen Troy: “...Joseph?”

Joe: “Helen, you’re here.”

Joe pocketed the bullet.

Helen Troy: “I heard the news. I wanted to see how you were doing.”

Joe: “You wanted to…? Helen, are you sure you want to be here?”

Helen Troy: “I'm sure, Joseph.”

Joe: “...I’m sorry, Helen.”

Helen Troy: “Joseph… I would like to come inside.”

Joe sighed but he let Helen into his apartment, he stepped inside first and he closed the door once she entered after him.

Joe: “Do you want something to drink?”

Helen Troy: “Uh… sure.”

Helen sat down at the table while Joe poured out two cups of cold water from the fridge. Joe placed a cup before Helen and he sat in the chair opposite hers with his cup of water in hand.

Helen Troy: “...Did you hear about Phil?”

Joe: “What about him?”

Helen Trial: “He’s going to stand trial in a few days but it’s pretty much a done deal. Isn’t it?”

Joe: “I’m sorry about the train, Helen. I heard that it’s not getting much traffic.”

Helen Troy: “I suppose that it was par for the course.”

Joe: “Yea, I mean I have people outside my house right now because of what became. If I– I hadn’t changed–.”

Helen Troy: “No, this isn’t your fault, Joseph.”

Joe: “...Unfortunately, I don’t feel the same.”

Helen Troy: “So this was it, wasn’t it? What you wanted to tell but… couldn’t. I understand, you were afraid about how I would’ve reacted.”

Joe: “I’m sorry, I should’ve–.”

Helen Troy: “No, you were protecting yourself, I understand. But, that must’ve felt lonely for you.”

Joe held his head down, looking down at the table. Helen stretched her hand out, holding onto Joe’s.

Helen Troy: “If Phil is an example, I judge people by action… not on who they are.”

Joe brandished a tight smile.

Joe: “Well, that was different. You didn’t know the truth about Phil–.”

Helen Troy: “Neither did I of you.”

Joe: “Hm. Point taken. Well, here’s something else you don’t know.”

Helen Troy: “What is it?”

Joe: “The same man that’s behind the explosions is the reason why Brickowski was let go.”

Helen Troy: “What?! Well, what’re you going to do?”

Joe: “I have to stop him. He told me that he plans on keeping up with his actions so we should expect another explosion soon.”

Helen Troy: “We have to stop him before that happens!”

Joe: “Helen, no. You can’t–.”

Helen Troy: “Joe, don’t! I told you, I want to help you!”

Joe chuckled, then asked; “Is that all?”

Helen Troy: “Who knows?”

Joe: “Helen, I still don’t know–.”

Loud banging started emanating from Joe’s door. Joe gestured his hand toward Helen, telling her to stay seated while he checked the noise. As he slowly walked up to his door, Joe called our; “Who is it?” Whoever it was, they didn’t answer, they only kept ramming into the door. Doing so with more and more force until the door was broken off its hinges.

Joe: “Arnie?!”

The man in question was a large and rotund one with a bushy mustache and messy black hair, wearing an orange shirt and blue jeans. Behind him was a small mob of people that looked just as angry as Arnie did.

Arnie: “You– Get out of my apartment! Now!”

Joe: “You don’t even own the place, Morbucks does! You’re just my neighbour!”

Arnie: “GET OUT, NOW!!!”

Arnie tackled Joe to the ground and they were wrestling when Arnie saw Helen to his left, shooting up to his feet in response to presence.

Arnie: “...Ms. Troy? What’re you doing here?! Are you with him?! With this freak ?!”

Helen Troy: “I–.”

Joe: “No! No, she’s been trying to leave but I– I wouldn’t let her!”

Arnie barked; “You bastard!” as he punched Joe in the face and while Joe’s face was bruised, Arnie scrambled in pain. He got up from the ground, holding onto the knuckles of his left hand.

Arnie: “Get her outta here!”

Helen Troy: “Wait–!”

The women from the small mob went over to Helen and began ushering her out in spite of her being in disposition but after looking at Joe, who mouthed the words; “Please, go.” Helen reluctantly left. Arnie flashed his hand before grabbing Joe by the collar and threw him into the hallway.

Joe: “Arnie, stop!”

Arnie took a bat from one of the men in the small mob and struck Joe across the face.

Arnie: “Shut up, you monster!”

Arnie then struck him again but the bat ended up being shattered to pieces as a result.

Arnie: “Dammit!”

Arnie barked; “C’mere!” as he grabbed Joe by the collar once more, pulled him up and carried him out of the building, throwing him down to feet of the screaming mob. Joe was on the ground when he saw Helen was getting into her car. They shared a sombre look and she mouthed the words; “I’m sorry.” Joe gave a tight smile and Helen responded with one of her own before getting into her car and driving off. Joe was now on his knees when he heard; “If you’d just leave like I told you to, things wouldn’t have gone down like it did.” Joe looked up at the man before him, which was a well dressed Michael Brickowski who was looking down at him with a smug smile.

Joe: “Brickowski?”

Joe then got on his feet.

Joe: “Why’re you here?!’

Michael Brickowski: “To make sure you leave this town alone. Now go.”

Joe: “You idiot, are you seriously taking the side of Cla–?!”

Brickowski suddenly pulled a gun at Joe that instantly quieted the roars of the mob.

Michael Brickowski: “Shut up!”

Joe: “You made a deal with evil just to get at me… You’re despicable.”

Brickowski struck Joe across the face with the butt of his gun and began yelling; “Where do you get off, huh?! I’m protecting them from you ! Do you know your kind put us through, huh?!”

Joe: “I didn’t put any of you… through anything !”

Brickowski pointed his gun right at Joe’s forehead, the click of the bullet moving into the chamber resonating through the air. Joe took a deep breath and in a gust of wind, he vanished.

Arnie: “He disappeared!’”

Hildie: “Where’d he go?!”

Michael Brickowski: “Outta town if he knows what’s best for him.”

Brickowski holstered his gun and began walking away from the crowd which prompted Arnie to ask; “Where are you going?” Michael glanced back at the man and answered; “Uh… I gotta meet with somebody.”

(The Townsville Police Department, Interior). Officer Perez rushed to the captain’s office, slowing down and opening the door to enter. Captain Tennyson was sitting back in his leather chair behind desk, looking outside the window to his left, gazing at the blue sky through the blinds.

Dialogue:

Officer Perez: “Yes, sir?”

Without looking the officer’s way, Captain Tennyson responded; “There’s a mob at the Muscular Arms apartment complex down the way. Get some officers out there and break it up, huh? The Mayor is breathing down my neck so make it quick.”

Officer Perez: “Yes sir.”

Perez was about to leave the officer but stopped, he turned back to the captain and asked; “Sir… did we do the right thing? Letting Joe go like that?”

Captain Tennyson: “...Ya know, I’ve been here since the beginning. Born in ‘72, I saw this place go from a small settlement to the town you live in now. When dem E.V.O.s wrecked through town, I was right there, seeing it all go down. Good people– men, women and children… all turned into monsters and killed other good people. It was hell. There was a strong hatred that grew from the point. People raised their kids to hate and those kids then grew up and taught their kids the same damn thing. The reasons for the hate will soon be lost to the ages and continue to be held further back as we go forward in time but that hate–.”

Officer Perez: “Will keep going.”

Captain Tennyson: “Mhm. It’s generational hate and I fear that a hate like that– that strong… will never go away.”

The captain faced Perez and continued; “So, ask me that question again, Perez.”

Officer Perez: “...I don’t think I can, sir.”

Captain Tennyson: “I get it. Besides, I don’t think I had an answer for you anyway.”

(Helen Troy’s Residence, Evening). Helen had arrived at her home a while ago but she couldn’t bring herself to exit her car, her mind still racking with prior events, the guilt of leaving Joe behind to fend for himself was getting to her. Helen took off her gold glasses and wiped her eyes. She then put them back on, finally mustering up the courage to get out of the car. She walked up to her front door, grabbed her keys and opened it. However, once she stepped inside, something grabbed onto her shoulder which startled her. Helen looked back and saw Joe, covered in cuts and bruises while seemingly being unaffected by them. She quickly pulled Joe into her house and locked the door afterwards, walking Joe towards the dining room.

Dialogue:

Joe: “I’m sorry. Don’t worry, no-one followed me.”

Helen Troy: “It’s alright Joseph, I’m just surprised to see you. If anything, I should be apologising to you–.”

Joe: “They would’ve hurt you, Helen.”

Helen Troy: “Regardless, it didn’t feel right to leave you like that.”

Joe: “Don’t worry, I’m fine.”

Helen Troy: “You’ll heal, right?”

Joe: “Yea. Hopefully it doesn’t take five days like last time.”

Helen Troy: “So, what now?”

Joe: “I… I don’t know. I came here because I never had anywhere else to go.”

Joe noticed that Helen was staring blankly at him, with a somewhat shocked expression.

Joe: “What is it?”

Helen Troy: “I’ve never heard you say ‘I don’t know’ before.”

Joe: “Hm. First time for everything, I guess.”

Helen Troy: “You can sit down, Joseph.”

Joe looked back at the chair at the dinner table and took a seat. Observing his wounds, Helen noticed that they had already started healing.

Helen Troy: “Now, what’re you going to do, Joseph?”

Joe: “I want to stop Claw, I want to end all of this. Truthfully, I want everything to go back to the way they were. I’ve managed to be a cop for about a month– dreamt about it my entire childhood only for it to be dashed after a month .”

Helen Troy: “Joseph, I’m sorry.”

Helen placed her hand on the shoulder of Joe’s red stained police uniform.

Joe: “I know that my life will always be different from this point on– there’s no going back. I just don’t know where to start this new one.”

Joe suddenly went to still, his eyes widened, his breathing screeched to a stop as sweat began raining down his face.

Helen Troy: “Joe… what’s wro–?”

The floor and even the house itself began to shake from a small tremor, forcing Helen to grip onto the chair Joe was sitting in.

Helen Troy: “An earthquake?”

Joe: “No… there was an… explosion.”

Joe looked Helen in the eyes and continued; “It was… the Sonitrain.” Helen gasped, holding her mouth as if she was holding back the shock. Joe shot to his feet and was rushing to the door to leave.

Helen Troy: “Joe, wait?!”

Joe ignored Helen and dashed out of the house in a blur.

(The Townsville Train Station, Evening). Joe appeared at the train station in a few minutes, kicking up a cloud of dust in his wake. The explosion decimated the Sonitrain and lit the surrounding area ablaze. Joe looked down at his hands then back at the roaring flames and began clapping. The intention was to put out the flames with a powerful gust of wind; he clapped once but the fires kept blazing, he clapped three times more and this time the flames seemed to be getting weaker. Joe gave it one last clap which released a powerful shockwave of wind that immediately put out the flames, leaving behind a scorched black train, emanating with steam.

Dialogue:

Joe: “...No.”

Joe went inside the destroyed train, walking past the fallen passengers within. Joe gasped when he looked ahead, seeing a barely conscious Farouk on the floor. Joe quickly knelt down and held the severely burnt man in his arms.

Joe: “Farouk… you– you took the train.”

With his last breath, Farouk only managed to say; “...Major.” before he ultimately expired. Tears filled Joe’s eyes but his face showed that he was filled with rage, he started breathing heavily from his mouth as his cheeks began turning red.

 Someone called out to Joe; “Hey!”, prompting him to turn to his left where he saw Officer Enguells who instantly drew his gun and took aim.

Officer Enguells: “You did this, didn’t you?!”

Instead of arguing, Joe gently placed Farouk down and disappeared in a blur, appearing before Enguells in a matter of seconds.

Officer Enguells: “Wha– when did you–?!”

Joe grabbed the gun from Officer Enguells, the officer backing away in response.

Joe: “You want something to fear?”

Joe then snapped the gun in half before dropping the pieces at the officer’s feet.

Joe: “...There.”

Joe then walked past Enguells, seething with anger as an intense scowl was etched on his face. He was walking towards the squad cars, the other officers making way for Joe out of fear. At the same time, Helen was driving up to the scene. She parked her car close and stepped out to meet Joe but he just kept walking.

Helen Troy: “Joseph!”

Joe: “Stay. Here! …I have to deal with this– with him .”

Helen Troy: “Joseph, let me help you, dammit!”

Joe: “I can do it myself, alright?! I don’t need anyone!”

Joe continued ahead, saying to himself; “And I probably never did.” Joe then ran off, kicking up a dust trail.

Helen Troy: “...Joseph.”

(The Townsville Police Department, Interior). Phil was sitting in his cell, looking at the floor with a sombre expression, mentally counting the days until his trial. He had started his seventeenth round of mental counting when he heard a sudden boom and was hit by a wall of wind. Phil looked forward where he saw Joe standing on the other side of his cell.

Dialogue:

Phil: “...Joseph Jerlads?”

Joe: “Where. Is. He?”

Phil: “What’re you going to do to him?”

Joe: “He blew up the Sonitrain, Phil. People were on that train. Where is he?”

Phil: “Wha… he…”

Phil fell out of his seat, dropping to his knees where he pleaded to the sky; “When will he stop torturing me?!”

Joe: “You want him to stop? Tell me where he would be right now.”

Phil looked up at Joe with tears in his eyes while Joe looked back with a stern expression.

Phil: “He has a house in Citiesville but that’s only one place he might be–.”

Joe: “Tell me all of them.”

(Pokey Oaks County, Night). Brickowski pulled up on a warehouse outside of Townsville, driving up a dirt road and parking in front before getting out of his car. As he walked towards the front doors, he was greeted by The Wrecking Crew; Jack, Crow and Wreck.

Dialogue:

Wreck: “Dere he is, dah man of the hour! What took ya?!”

Michael Brickowski: “You kiddin’ me? This place is hard to find, it took me a minute.”

Crow: “Yea, Claw wanted a secret place to move his stock of Herodium. It’s a whole thing.”

Michael Brickowski: “Uh, yea. Anyway, is he in there?”

Jack: “Yea, he’s waiting for you.”

Michael nodded then entered the warehouse, going through a small door that was cut out of the two larger doors. The interior was filled with crates and barrels along with large wooden shelves stocked full with more crates.  At the end of the room was a massive metal cauldron that was filled with Herodium in the form of a hot orange liquid which was being poured out of a metal funnel situated above the cauldron. Standing before the cauldron was Claw, hands behind his back, watching the liquid as it flowed into the iron cauldron.

Claw: “Did you have fun?”

Michael Brickowski: “If that’s what you call it? In any case, it looks like he’s gone.”

Claw: “Are you certain?”

Michael Brickowski: “Well uh, he just kinda ran off– too fast to see where exactly he went.”

Claw: “So you’re just guessing?”

Claw faced Michael, his glare making the man cower.

Claw: “He’s not gone, Michael. Well, he did leave the town but I’m pretty sure he’s out trying to find me considering what had just happened.”

Michael Brickowski: “What do you mean?”

Claw: “Oh, I just blew up the Sonitrain.”

Michael Brickowski: “Wait, what?! Why did–?!”

Claw: “You remember what you signed up for, right? I made Joe’s life in Townsville impossible, forcing him to leave while I continued my work.”

Michael Brickowski: “You blew a train with people!”

Claw silently stared at Michael for a moment until he asked; “Were you making a point?”

Michael Brickowski: “I can’t be a part of this.”

Claw: “Michael, you step through those doors and you won’t make it back home. I helped you and you knew what I was about so I don’t need your righteous indignation right now. You’re a part of this life now and that life belongs to me.”

After seeing that Michael didn’t move from where he was standing, Claw exclaimed; “Now, that’s more like it.” He then went back to watching the pouring of liquid Herodium, telling Brickowski; “Now keep it down a bit, I’m marveling.”

Meanwhile, outside the warehouse, The Wrecking Crew were passing the time by playing catch when they heard the moving of gravel and what sounded like footsteps. Crow put on his glass to see better and asked; “Who’s out there?!” Joe then came into view.

Jack: “Oh, it’s that one cop! What’s his name?”

Crow: “I think it was Major.”

Wreck: “Hey wait a minute, he ain’t a cop no more!”

Jack: “Oh yea, Mr. Claw made sure ah that.”

Crow: “Still wearin’ his uniform, though.”

Joe: “Is he in there right now?”

Crow: “Sure, he’s in there. Ya gotta make an appointment to see him, though.”

Joe: “Step aside, I don’t want to hurt you.”

Jack: “Ya don’t have to worry about that, Major. We’re just like you.”

Joe: “You guys are E.V.O.s too?”

Wreck: “Yup! So dah lil tough guy ‘I don’t wanna hurt ya’ stuff ain’t gonna work on us.”

Joe: “That’s good, actually.”

Michael jumped from the sudden sounds of fighting from outside while Claw didn’t even flinch, only smiling. Brickowski heard screams of agony and loud booms until everything went silent. Joe then burst through the large warehouse doors.

Michael Brickowski: “Joe?!”

Joe: “You’re here too, huh?”

Claw: “Goodnight, officer– oop, that’s no longer the case now is it?”

Claw faced Joe and asked; “So, did you kill my men?”

Joe: “I’m not a killer, Claw. I only knocked them out, what you heard was them trying to put up a fight.”

Claw: “I see. So, what can I do for you?”

Michela Brickowski: “I think he’s here to kick your can.”

Claw held his head and sighed.

Claw: “I know , Michael. What you just heard me doing before you so rudely interrupted, was sarcastic banter. I know that this man is here to ‘stop me’ and ‘put an end to my operation’ . Isn’t that right, Mr. Jeralds?”

Joe: “I’d say so.”

Claw: “Good. Well, I suppose you better come to me because I’m in the middle of something and I’m not moving from where I am.”

Joe responded; “Gladly.” as he made the first step, beginning his short trek toward Claw. However, he was met by Brickowski’s gun.

Joe: “Get out of my way, Brickowski.”

Michael Brickowski: “Just get outta ‘ere, Joe.”

Joe: “Remember what I told that criminal that threatened to blow up the station– Dynamite Dog? I told him that I’m not gonna cower down to some punk slinging around a gun to get what he wants. I made a promise to protect people and you can’t stop me, I won’t allow it.”

Michael's hands began shaking and sweat began running down his face as he swallowed his spit, his resolve was being overpowered by Joe’s. Brickowski eventually backed down, lowering his gun and stepping out of the way. Joe walked past Brickowski and made his way towards Claw who faced Joe once he approached.

Claw: “I should give you a round of applause, that was quite the show. Now, you said you’re not a killer so why are you here?”

Joe: “I’m taking you in even if I break every bone in your body and drag you to the station.”

Claw: “Hm, it looks like you have everything all figured out, huh? Well, I love to break to you, that’s not going to happen. I’m not going to prison which means the only way you're carrying me out of here is in a body bag, Major .”

Joe scowled at Claw’s remark. Claw lifted his metal hand and gestured to Joe to come at him which Joe obliged, charging at the lanky man. Joe ran in and threw a punch that, to his surprise, Claw caught with the same metal hand.

Claw: “Aw, don’t look so shocked, I’m an E.V.O., remember? You figured it out earlier, didn’t you? I mean, a man as tall as myself with such horrible complexion is far from common.”

Claw sent Joe flying, throwing him out of the warehouse where he crashed into Micheal’s car.

Michael Brickowski: “Got dammit!”

Claw then walked outside the warehouse to meet Joe who was climbing off the now wrecked car, getting back on his feet.

Claw: “We have to scrap out here, I have too many important stuff in the warehouse. Now, where were we?”

One of the Wrecking Crew intervened; “Wait, let us… handle him, Mr. Claw.” It was Jack who was getting back on his feet with the other two following suit.

Claw: “Hm? Oh, go ahead.”

Jack: “Round two, wise guy!”

Joe: “More wise than you, taking me on.”

Wreck: “Got ah mouth on ‘em, eh boys?!”

Crow fixed his glasses as he and the others took out their weapons.

Crow: “We’re not holding back this time!”

The Wrecking Crew charged at Joe, bellowing a war cry. Jack stabbed his jackhammer into the ground, sending out an intense tremor that shattered it in chunks. The force of the blow smacked Joe back and he rolled across the ground until he skidded to a stop. He looked up and through the dust came Wreck with his wrecking ball flail; he spun it around and swung down on Joe, shattering where Joe stood and seemingly Joe himself. Wreck touched down, smiling at his perceived accomplishment, brandishing his tusks. However, his smile quickly turned to shock as he was suddenly pulled by his flail into the smoke left behind by his attack.

Crow: “Wreck?!”

A hand jutted through the smoke, grabbing Wreck by the throat and as the smoke dissipated, Joe’s form began to be revealed. In his other hand was Wreck’s wrecking ball flail and with a tight squeeze, Joe shattered it completely. Joe began punching Wreck repeatedly in the face, destroying it more and more with each hit. Joe then grabbed Wreck by the tusks and began spinning him around until he finally slammed Wreck into the ground. The resulting collision was as if a grenade went off as an explosion of dust and debris shot into the air.

Claw: “Hm.”

Joe shot through the dust, charging at the other two members of The Wrecking Crew. Crow leapt ahead and swung down with both his crowbars but Joe evaded the attack and countered with an uppercut that was blocked by Jack’s intervention, using his jackhammer as a shield.

Jack: “You put a dent in my hammer!”

Joe backed away and went into a boxing stance.

Jack: “I’m gonna have to buff that out!”

Jack roared as he charged in with his jackhammer, swinging it around and forcing Joe back. Crow shouted; “Stand still!” as he then charged in, swinging his crowbars at Joe. Crow managed to land a hit on Joe who had to block with his forearm, grimacing a bit from the pain. Joe was unfortunately then struck in the face with Crow’s other crowbar. He then pushed Joe back and then struck him again but this time, the crowbar shattered to pieces upon impact on Joe’s now bruised skin.

Joe: “RAHHH!!!”

Joe threw a punch and even though Crow quickly used his one crowbar as a shield, it could not stand up to Joe’s anger as he broke through it with ease. Joe then sank his fist into Crow’s face. The punch utterly destroyed Crow’s face, blasting every tooth out of his mouth and sending him flying right into the back of Brickowski’s car. Micheal’s body jolted a bit from the sight of his car continuing to get damaged.

Jack: “You took out my brothers!”

Joe: “You guys were related?”

Jack: “It’s a… it's a figure of speech, man.”

Joe: “Right, I knew that.”

Jack charged in, once again swinging his jackhammer at Joe who managed to dodge each attack. Jack tripped Joe off his feet, making him fall on his back where he then stabbed at Joe with his jackhammer. Luckily, Joe grabbed the jackhammer before it reached him, pushing it back.

Jack: “Just die!”

Joe: “Never!”

Joe roared as pushed back on Jack more and more until suddenly, his eyes began to burn a bright white which caught Jack off guard.

Jack: “What the…?”

White hot heat then shot from Joe’s eyes, going right through both of Jack’s shoulders while blasting him back. Joe threw off the jackhammer and flashed his head left to right while squeezing his eyes shut as he staggered to his feet. Joe managed to quell the heat behind his eyes and after his vision returned, he saw Jack laying on the ground, groaning in pain from the holes burned into each shoulder.

Joe: “I’m… I’m sorry.”

Claw: “Oh, you can shoot heat from your eyes. Intriguing. They looked like shooting stars in the night sky, by the way– quite exquisite.”

Joe glared at Claw, going back into his boxing stance. Claw chuckled as he then began to slowly walk towards Joe.

Claw: “I remember when I first went through my metamorphosis, it terrified all the town’s folk.”

Claw raised his metal arm and continued; “I was but a child when the wise elders of said town thought it be a fitting punishment to remove … my arm.”

Joe: “I’m sorry that happened to you but that doesn’t give you the right to then torture people!”

Claw: “I want to be angry at them, Mr. Jeralds, so don’t you dare dictate to me how I should feel!”

Claw collected himself with a deep breath.

Claw: “My apologies, I let my emotions get the best of me. You have it wrong, though.”

Joe: “How so?”

Claw: “I don’t torture people because of what the wise elders back in my hometown did to me, I torture people who wronged me as anyone else would. That’s all, pretty simple. It’s like I told you before; people hate. Sometimes people don’t need a gigantic motive to do the things they do, sometimes they just want to do things. Sometimes people want to hate for hating sake…”

Claw stopped walking once he was a few inches away from Joe.

Claw: “And sometimes people are evil for the sake of it. Even when they have every right to be.”

Joe and Claw stared at each other for a moment until they suddenly threw a punch at one another. Their fists shot passed another other as they headed to their intended target, each other’s faces. Both their fists collided with each other’s face but neither man faltered, they kept going, punching at one another but Claw grabbed Joe by the face and slammed him into the ground. Joe forced out heat from his eyes, making Claw block with his metal arm. He swatted away the blast and grabbed Joe by the mouth with his metal arm, now heated up to high temperatures which burnt Joe’s cheeks. Claw then lifted Joe up by the mouth and threw him into the side of the warehouse, Joe slammed against the concrete wall before falling to the ground.

Claw: “Are we done? Do you need some motivation?”

Joe staggered to his feet, glaring at Claw.

Joe: “Moti… vation?”

Claw: “Yea! Let’s see. Well, if you remember, I was the one that killed 89 plus people and is actively destroying your small town– the one you swore to protect.”

Joe glared back at Michael Brickowski who shied away from his gaze. Joe then looked back at Claw, then down to the ground, digging his fingers into the dirt.

Claw: “There we go.”

Joe blasted off, slingshotting himself forward at high speeds, appearing before Claw who managed to react just in time, throwing a punch with his metal arm. Joe was quicker, luckily, ducking under the man’s punch and countered with an uppercut, striking Claw in the chin. However, that didn’t stop Claw as he then struck Joe in the gut which flung him through the large metal doors of the warehouse. Joe did manage to land on his feet just in time to dodge an oncoming axe kick from Claw, moving to the side. Joe quickly grabbed Claw by the leg and threw him into the large cauldron, Joe then ran up to Claw with a punch that he dodge, making Joe punch the cauldron of Herodium instead which left a fist-shaped dent behind. Claw grabbed Joe’s wrist and snapped it. Joe screamed as he backed away, Claw then threw a punch with his metal arm but Joe headbutted it, shattering it into pieces. Claw was shocked but quickly shrugged it off, swapping over to his legs, starting to kick at Joe. Fortunately, Joe ducked under the kick and struck Claw in the leg with his one good hand, breaking that leg. Claw grunted from the pain but Joe wasn’t done as when Claw looked ahead, Joe’s forearm was already flying towards him.

Joe: “This is the end, CLAW!!!”

Claw said to himself; “I suppose it is.” His face contorted into a smile right before he was struck by a lariat at full force. Joe roared as he sent Claw crashing into the ground, shattering it on impact while sending out a shock wave of force that rippled through the air. Joe looked down at the defeated Claw; he was broken and bruised all over but he wasn’t breathing which instantly sent Joe into panic. Joe then heard a hoarse chuckle coming from Claw as he struggled to turn his head to face Joe, brandishing his broken teeth with a crooked smile.

Claw: “Had you there… didn’t I?”

Joe closed his eyes and collapsed to his knees with a heavy breath.

Joe:: “I’m taking you in… Claw .”

Claw: “And then what? The towns folk will love you again?”

Joe: “I wish but I’m not stupid, I know that life is gone. I’ve made peace with it. I just had to make sure you couldn’t hurt anymore people. Cop or not… I still have a mission to protect everyone.”

Claw groaned from annoyance.

Claw: “And our chat is over. I can’t stand your self-righteousness.”

Claw got up from the crater he was in, much to Joe’s shock.

Joe: “What’re you… doing?”

Claw: “I told you… I’m not going to prison.”

Claw began walking towards the cauldron of liquid hot Herodium.

Joe: “Wait, you need to pay for your crimes–!”

Claw: “Have I not made myself clear?! Either you kill me or be quiet!”

Claw continued to walk towards the cauldron and he was inches away from it when he was suddenly shot in the back several times, falling to his knees. Joe quickly looked back to see Micheal Brickowski, gun in hand with steam seeping out from its nozzle.

Claw: “Looks like… somebody… complete their mission tonight.”

Claw then fell on his side, lifeless.

Joe: “You–.”

Michael Brickowski: “You gotta get outta here.”

Joe: “...Why?”

Michael Brickowski: “I called the station back when you were fightin’ his goons, they’re on their way here.”

Joe stood back on his feet.

Joe: “What’re you going to do?”

Michael Brickowski: “Does it matter?”

Joe: “...No, it doesn’t.”

Joe suddenly exclaimed; “They’re here.” Michael asked; “What?” before he then heard the sirens of incoming squad cars. Joe and Micheal shared one last look before he ran off into the night, speeding into the shadows. Michael checked his gun for bullets, seeing that there was no more left. He was then bathed in the red and blue lights of the squad cars that drove up, parking before the warehouse doorway. There were about four squad cars with two of the officers to exit them being Captain Tennyson and Officer Perez.

Officer Perez: “Brickowski.”

The captain was looking around the place; seeing the beaten men that made up the Wrecking Crew, the destroyed environment and Claw’s body laying before the cauldron of Herodium. In the centre of it all was Michael Brickowski with a gun in his hand.

Captain Tennyson: “What happened here, Brickowski?”

Michael Brickowski: “This guy was the reason I managed to get out of lockup but after he blew the train up… I had a change ah heart.”

The captain once again scanned his surroundings and then commented; “Did ya now?”

Michael Brickowski: “Sure did.”

Captain Tennyson ordered the other two officers to call for backup and then told Officer Perez; “Cuff ‘em.” Officer Perez responded; “Yes, sir.” as he took out his cuffs and approached Michael. Brickowski willingly gave Perez the gun and accepted the cuffs. Captain Tennyson walked up to Brickowski and asked; “Are you sure you alone did this?” Michael looked back at the lifeless Claw, then back at the captain where he met his vibrant green gaze.

Michael Brickowski: “Yea.”

Still looking into Brickowski’s eyes, Captain Tennyson told Perez; “Take him in.” While Brickowski was being escorted to the squad car, the captain approached Claw’s body. He noticed the several bullet holes but he also saw that he had broken bones and major bruising all over his body.

Captain Tennyson: “...Hm.”

(Pokey Oaks County, The Town of Townsville, Day). The next day had come but Townsville’s people were unmotivated and drained from all that had happened in the days passed. Brock Bachman’s voice was back on the radio waves, reporting on the news as usual and people were listening to it as they forced themselves out of bed or while getting ready for work. Officer Perez was driving to the station while Brock’s voice rang in his ear, listing off recent events.

Dialogue:

Brock Bachman: “The man behind the bombings known as Claw was found dead at his private warehouse last night. Along with him were his three accomplices, all unconscious when the Townsville police arrived. According to the captain of the Townsville Police Department, Captain Jedidiah Tennyson; former officer Michael Brickowski was also at the scene and he also confessed to being the one that killed Claw and subdued his allies.”

Officer Perez: “Of course he did.”

Brock Bachman: “This spells the end of what is called ‘The Second Siege of Townsville’ , the first being when this great town was ravaged by ravenous E.V.O.s. In other news, former Townsville Joseph Jeralds has been missing since yesterday, his whereabouts remain unknown and there is no attempt to look for him. As for Phil Anthropist, former accomplice to Claw, he is still in the Townsville Police Department's custody awaiting trial which is only two days from now–.”

Officer Perez turned off the radio and decided to take in the sounds of the busy but melancholic town around him as he drove the rest of the way to work. Perez pulled into the station, parking his personal vehicle and making his way towards the building. On his way there, he saw Montana Jed and his Prairie Dog on a Stick food cart passing by, opting to greet the eccentric man.

Officer Perez: “Uh, morning Jed!”

Montana Jed: “Oh, mornin’ there Officer Perez! Care for a Prairie Dog on a Stick?!”

Officer Perez: “No thanks, I’m on a diet. Hey uh, Jed. You were one of the last people to see Joe– well, apart from me, do you have any idea where he would have gone? Did he tell you anything?”

Montana Jed: “No… no. The last thing I saw ‘em do was… tryin’ to convince people to take– to take the train.”

Officer Perez: “...Yea.”

Montana Jed: “Officer Perez… should I care that he’s gone?”

Officer Perez: “I… I won’t tell you not to.”

Montana Jed smiled and nodded, then rolled on with his food cart. Officer Perez then went inside the precinct which was a bit quieter than usual as some of the officers were at the train station, helping clean up the wreckage. Officer Perez took a seat at his desk, getting into some paperwork. He grabbed a stack of paper, lifting them up to find something hidden underneath them. It was the same dented bullet but it was made into a chain. Perez smiled as he placed down the papers and took up the bullet to observe it closely.

Officer Perez: “Joe… you goofball.”

(Townsville Train Station, Day). Captain Tennyson and some of his officers as well as the fire department were clearing away the debris and shrapnel from the Sonitrain explosion. The captain overheard one of the firemen talking with Officer Enguells about Joe.

Dialogue:

The firefighter asked Officer Enguells; “So that freak really caused all this, huh?”

Officer Enguells: “More or less. All I’ll say is that nothing like this ever happened until he came here. Nothing good happens when they’re around.”

Captain Tennyson: “Hey, get to it!”

Officer Enguells: “Yes, sir!”

Captain Tennyson shook his head in embarrassment, he then shifted away a piece of metal, his black gloves protecting his hand from any cuts. The metal he picked up was a bar he threw behind him into a pile to be carried away. The captain then saw Helen Troy’s car pulling up with her stepping out and approaching him, putting on gloves of her own. They were a pair of white gloves with gold studs on them. The captain greeted the woman; “Ms. Troy.” as he tipped his hat at her.

Helen Troy: “Good morning, Captain.”

Captain Tennyson: “Fixin’ to get yer hands dirty?”

Helen Troy: “I suppose you could phrase it that way. I can’t just sit by not doing anything. I need to do something .”

Captain Tennyson: “I get ya.”

Captain Tennyson noticed Mayor Hartfield over to his left, arriving and helping in the cleaning as well. Reminding people that he is a very hands on Mayor.

Helen Troy: “Morbucks is funding the repair of the Sonitriain as well as the reconstruction of the station.”

Captain Tennyson: “Well, that’s great news.”

Helen Troy: “I wish Joseph was here to see that the town is pushing forward. You know that last thing he said to me was that he didn’t think he needed anyone.”

Captain Tennyson: “Considering what he’s been put through in such a short time, can’t blame ‘em too much.”

Helen took up a piece of metal, having it in her hands as she asked; “Is it safe to assume that Joseph will experience the same treatment elsewhere as he did here?” Captain held on to the brim of his hat and took a breath.

Captain Tennyson: “I would say so. We can only hope he’ll take care of ‘emself.”

Helen Troy looked to the sky, thinking about Joe as she gazed into bright blue.

Helen Troy: “Se safe… Major.”

(Nevada, Day). Joe had walked into a town in Nevada, opting to walk the entire way from the Pokey Oaks County instead of taking any form of transport to avoid any incident. It wasn’t a problem for him, luckily, because of his enhanced physicality. He only had on his officer’s pants and shoes, the only thing on his back was his white undershirt. Once he made it into town, that was when he wiped the first beat of sweat from his face after so many days of walking. Joe walked past a diner named Wong’s Food To Go , being tempted by the food inside but decided against it as he didn’t want to cause an altercation. Joe’s stomach began to growl, making him grab at his belly. Looking to his right, Joe saw a payphone across the street, quickly crossing over to it and stepping inside. He took out his wallet and opened it and within was a picture of his Uncle Sam standing with other men, all with smiles on their faces. Joe smiled as he glided his thumb across the photo. He then took off the phone and placed it against his ear as he placed 25 cents into the coin slot. Joe then dialed in a number and after a few rings, he heard someone picking up the call.

Dialogue:

Joe: “Uncle Donovan… yea, it’s me Jo– right, you would know… Yea uh, long story. I’m in Nevada right and I was wondering if I could pop by since I was so close by… I have nowhere else to go.”

The Story Continues

Chapter Text

Year: 1946

Joe was jogging down a mountain road, one like a serpent wrapped around a gigantic boulder. It was nearly empty, Joe only saw the occasional car drive past which allowed him to have some peace. He took this moment, when he was running downhill to just think about his life, the events that led to the present day. It had just started only to end in an instant. Lost in thought, not focusing about where he was going, Joe kept running. He eventually came back to reality just in time to realise that he had run too far, finding himself within the Nevada Desert.

Dialogue:

Joe: “...Hm.”

Joe sighed, spotting a rock to his left. He went over it and sat down, just to take a breather. He looked around him and saw nothing but sand. The feeling of isolation that has been following him since he left Townsville was still present and now it was codified by his current surroundings. He was lost within it and that gave Joe an uneasy feeling.

Joe: “...I better get back.”

(Orchid Bay, California, The Grand Smith Mansion, Day). Joe ran back to the mountainous city of San Francisco, California where he has been staying. He ran back up the mountain road, right up to its peak where a massive mansion was located. Made of red brick and towering into the sky, The Grand Smith Mansion created an intimidating presence but its lush green yard filled with multiple fountains, a large one within its centre countered that with delight. Joe walked through the front gates that brandished the number “107b” on one of the stone pillars that propped them up. He walked past the many hedges that were cut into shapes of animals which was to made for an inviting atmosphere. However for Joe, who was looking around, it didn’t do anything for him. He walked up to the steps of the mansion with a cold face, going up the short flight of stairs that led to the front porch where he sat down on the final step. Joe tried to enjoy the sun and open air but he was like a stone within a storm, the cool wind moved around him and the sun’s rays felt as they bounced off his skin. He started to hear a tune coming from behind him, it started off low but got louder the closer it got. Joe turned back and saw a young man with short blonde hair with bangs that hid his eyes and a body on the slender side. He wore a black t-shirt that read “Shag Carpeting” on the chest and blue ripped jeans. Even though it wasn’t connected to an outlet, the young man was strumming the strings of his electric guitar as he approached Joe.

Dialogue:

Joe: “Oh, good morning… uh… sorry. A few days here and I still can’t get your name down pat.”

The young man strummed his final string before plopping down next to Joe. He then told Joe; “Tis alright, friend. You can refer to me as Val, ‘ay brah.”

Joe: “Of course. Sorry again, I’m just uh– I'm a bit out of it.”

Val: “Tis chill, friend. You forgot my name but now you can remember what to call me by. So it all worked out.”

Joe: “Nothing seems to bother you, Val. How do you do it?”

Val: “Things may bother me but I alloweth them not bother, ya know?”

Joe: “Yea, I uh, I think I do.”

Val: “Most wondrous, friend.”

Footsteps interrupted the duo’s talk and looking behind them, they saw a woman with dark skin and curly black hair fashioned into a bun. Her skin was smooth but protruding from her shoulders, forehead, jawline and calves were dark green metal spikes. The woman, just like Joe, was an E.V.O. The shoulders of her white button up shirt she wore were torn to shreds because of the spikes as well as the calves of the grey pants she had on. Her eyes glowed a piercing bright turquoise with full pink lips. The metal along her forehead sloped down her nose and protruded forward as if it were a bird’s beak.

Val: “Valorous morn, friend Doris!”

Joe: “Good morning, Doris.”

Doris: “Hey. Donovan wants to see you.”

Joe pointed at himself and asked; “Wants to see me?” and Doris nodded. Joe stood up, dusting off his knees.

Joe: “Thank you, Doris.”

Doris: “Mhm.”

Joe: “Excuse me, guys.”

Val: “No worries, brah.”

Joe smiled and nodded at both then went inside the house.

Val: “Would thou care for a bard, Doris?”

Doris turned to Val and responded with a cold and monotone voice; “No thank you.” before going back inside. Val shrugged then went back to playing his electric guitar. Joe was calling out for his uncle when Doris, who was standing by the living room doorway, informed him; “Downstairs.” in that same stoic voice.

Joe: “Oh, thank you.”

Joe left the living room and headed to a door that was underneath the staircase that led to the bedrooms. He opened the door and went down the flight of stairs into a vast room built underneath the entire house. There were giant steel beams being pulled and dragged through the air by levers accompanied by the sound of metal being banged, dropped and welded. Joe came down the final step of the staircase, into what felt to him like a new world.

Joe: “Unc– UNCLE DONOVAN?!!”

Donovan yelled back; “Joey?! Be right with you!” There were then sounds of thrusters, making Joe look in the air where he saw his uncle flying above him. Donovan had a jetpack strapped to his back with a metal apparatus over his arms, chest and shoulders. He touched down before Joe, kicking up some dust as he landed.

Joe: “Hey, Uncle Donovan.”

Donovan: “Hey there, Joey.”

Donovan was very fit for his age; an elderly man with slicked back grey hair and striking beady eyes, a broad chin wearing a burgundy turtleneck.

Joe: “What is all this?”

Donovan: “Oh this? Just the metal framing– the foundation for the next hotel I’m building.”

Joe: “Whoa. What’s the gimmick this time?”

Donovan: “It’s still in its infancy but what you’re looking at is the first step into underwater hospitality.”

Joe: “An underwater hotel?”

Donovan: “You betcha. The foundation is made of Bicenthium Alloy, a new metal that was discovered not too long ago. It’s some pretty strong stuff so the hotel will be able to manage the water pressure. This right here… is going to revolutionise hotel franchising.”

Joe: “All of this is… wow.”

Donovan: “I know, I know.”

Joe: “...So uh, you asked to see me?”

Donovan: “Oh right, I was just wondering how you were getting along. Have you already gone on your jog?”

Joe: “Yea… yea. I kinda lost myself for a moment– ended up in the Nevada Desert.”

A loud scoff shot from the background, drawing the attention of the two men. The person who scoffed was Donovan’s 15 year old grandson, Edwin Grand Smith. He had a clipboard in his hands, supervising all the work that was taking place. Just like his grandfather, Edwin wore a burgundy turtleneck and had his black hair slicked back. He was looking disappointingly at Joe with his striking blue eyes.

Donovan: “Eddie.”

Eddie: “Still can’t believe you’re letting your powers weigh on you.”

Joe: “Excuse me?”

Eddie: “All I’m saying is that if I had your powers, I would–.”

Donovan: “That’s enough, Edwin!”

Donovan turned to Joe and told him; “He has a fascination with superheroes you see.”

Joe: “Superheroes, huh? You got a favourite?”

Eddie: “Easy, The Captain Brothers–.”

Joe: “Captain Righteous and Captain Nemesis? You know they’re not real heroes, right? They’re just actors stealing valour?”

Eddie: “They’re not ‘stealing valour’ ! They made San Fran better!”

Joe: “ Cops did that, son.”

Eddie: “I’m not your son!”

Joe: “Figure of speech.”

Eddie: “Whatever. I have work to do.”

Eddie then walked off, pouting the entire time.

Joe: “Well, he’s passionate . I mean, I understand but...”

Donovan: “I’m sorry about that, he really likes superheroes.”

Joe: “Completely understand looking up to someone.”

Donovan: “Hey, I’m going for some fresh air, care to join me?”

Joe: Uh, sure. Could I take a shower first? Clean off the seat and dirt?”

Joe stepped out of the shower. Towel around his waist, entering his room that he had wiped down the day he arrived at the mansion. He approached his bed where the clothes that he picked out were waiting for him; a white shirt with a blue star on the chest, pale brown cargo pants and a red belt with a gold buckle. Joe got himself dressed and stepped out of his room where he bumped into Eddie who had just come from the kitchen, a bottle of Cola Cola soda in hand.

Eddie: “Jeralds.”

Joe’s eyebrow flicked up, caught off guard by the teenage boy’s general demeanour.

Joe: “Look, we got off on the wrong foot back there. Why don’t we establish proper goodwill?”

Eddie: “Sure. I suppose I was a tad abrasive.”

Joe: “A tab, huh?.”

Eddie: “Mhm. Anywho, carry on.”

Joe: “Oh, uh…”

Eddie carried on down the hallway, drinking from his bottle of soda as walked off. Joe snickered as he shook his head, then walked off. Joe met with Donovan sitting on a wooden bench in the massive backyard filled with cemented pathways, grassfields and vibrant green trees. Joe called out to Donovan as he approached. Donovan was drinking tea hot off the kettle and a sandwich, setting them down to his left, the sandwich specifically on a plate.

Donovan: “Joey, take a seat.”

Joe sat to the right of Donovan as the elderly man dusted his hands off while licking the crumbs from his lips.

Donovan: “1 o’ clock in the afternoon and I’m just having breakfast. I’m sorry I couldn't make it to the table for breakfast, by the way.”

Joe: “It’s fine, I uh… I didn’t either. I ate in my room.”

Donovan: “Well that’s no good at all. I told you the rules of this house when you arrived, didn’t I?”

Joe: “Yes sir, you did.”

Donovan: “Could you repeat it?”

Joe: “We eat together in this house; breakfast at 10 and dinner at nine, sir.”

Donovan: “So you were listening. So why didn’t you abide by them, this isn’t like you to disregard an order.”

Joe: “I’m sorry, it’s just…”

Donovan sighed, giving Joe a soft pat on the back.

Donovan: “I’m sorry about what you had to go through, Joey. All you wanted to do was protect the country that your uncle protected during the war–.”

Joe: “But because of what I became… what I am, that was taken away from me.”

Donovan: “ ‘What you became’? ”

Joe: “Um.”

Donovan: “Joey, you’re still a person and a damn good one.”

Joe: “I don’t… I don’t know. It’s just that… all those people out there–.”

Donovan: “That you don’t have to worry about. This place is a safe haven for people just like you.”

Joe: “E.V.O.s?”

Donovan: “Family, Joey. Take Dory…”

Joe: “Dory?”

Donovan: “After her change and what happened because of it, she had to leave her home town. The place where she grew up for years. I opened up my home to her because I see her as one of my own daughters.”

Joe: “And Val?”

Donovan: “Of course. I found Val wandering the lonely roads of Nowhere Kansas. I asked him what that was about and you know what he said to me?”

Joe shook his head and Donovan chuckled.

Donovan: “He said ‘Good morrow, I am new to this land. Prithee show me the way?’ .”

The two broke into a short stint of laughter.

Donovan: “He uh– yea, he made himself at home real quick and I think of him as family as well. He and Dory give me some nice diversity here; Val can make up for Doris’ stoic and quiet nature but when I just want peace–.”

Joe: “You can enjoy Doris’ company.”

Donovan: “Mhm. We have a good thing going here, Joey. I missed having a full house.”

Joe: “Hm. I am glad that there’s a place like this at least. Thank you for letting me into your home, uncle Donovan.”

Donovan: “We may not be blood but we’re family, Joey… that’s what family’s do. Also, your uncle Sam wouldn't forgive me– probably kick my ass whenever I see him again, eh?”

Joe chuckled.

Donovan: “Yea, your uncle rubbed off on me. He set a good example for us. Oh, did your uncle ever tell you the story of when we found out about Leland’s little secret?”

Joe: “Ultra-Boy? Uh, no. He uh… he never got to it.”

Donovan: “I think you could use a story right now. You mind if I tell ya the tale?”

Joe: “Uh yea, sure.”

Donovan: “Great. Now…”

_______________________

September 25, 1918

(Camp Jackson, South Carolina, Day). One of many bases built for the training and the deployment of troops, established in July 1917. One such army man stationed there was Leland Lewis; a young man with curly blonde hair, a chiseled face and small but lean build. He was the only one present in the barracks, getting dressed. He put on a white shirt with his camo pants along with his dot tag around his neck. Leland was somewhat cautious, looking around as he put on black glove that reached up to the bicep of his left arm.

Dialogue:

Leland: “There ya go.”

A voice called out for Leland, one that easily filled up the empty barrack space; “Lefty! Are you in ‘ere?!”

Leland: “Sam?! Yea, I’m by the bed!”

Samuel Jeralds stepped through the door, walked down and met up with Leland, leaning against the bunk bed. Samuel was dressed similarly to Leland with the added gold chain with a star on it accompanying his dog tag around his neck. He had blonde messy hair and a goatee with vibrant blue eyes.

Samuel: “What’s taking ya? You know that we gotta prepare for tomorrow don’tcha?”

Leland: “I know, I know. I was just uh– I was just putting on my glove.”

Leland raised his left arm, wiggling his fingers as he showed off the glove. Samuel snickered, also influenced by Leland's bright smile and chipper demeanour.

Samuel: “Come on, the boys are waiting for us.”

Leland: “Well then let’s get a move on!”

The two stepped outside where Leland commented; “You know that you’re the only one of the guys that call me Lefty, right? Even though I asked you not to?”

Samuel: “Can’t be dictating speech, there Leland. You wear a black glove on your left arm so I call you Lefty.”

Leland chuckled as he shook his head. Samuel and Leland then ran into a fellow soldier in the same get up as them. He was short but stout with a wide frame and muscular, his defining feature was his protruding nose and bald head.

Samuel: “Spencer Specific.”

Spencer Specific: “That’s General Specific to you, Jeralds.”

Samuel snickered at the remark. At the same time, Specific glanced at Leland who quickly diverted his eyes.

Spencer Specific: “Where are you two off to? Aren’t you two supposed to be preparing?”

Samuel: “Shut up, Specific.”

Spencer chuckled.

Spencer Specific: “I have rank over two lowlifes so you better watch that tone, soldier.”

Samuel: “You can’t pull rank on us when you don’t have it, Specific .”

Spencer Specific: “And you’re just oh so good aren’t you, Jeralds ?”

Samuel: “Better than you, General .”

Spencer grimaced at Samuel’s taunting, once again glancing over to Leland who averted his eyes just like before. This made him smile and ask Leland; “You good there, little guy?”

Samuel: “You prick.”

Leland: “It’s alright, Sam. Let’s just go, ok?”

Samuel: “...Yea.”

The two then walked off, Spencer eyeing them the entire with narrow eyes. Leland and Samuel had jogged the rest of the way to their location, by a tree in a generally secluded area on the campgrounds where several individuals were waiting. These individuals were; Donovan Grand Smith, Samuel Sturdy and Nathaniel Nitro. Sturdy was tall and stocky with broad shoulders, beady eyes and messy black hair. Nitro was a slender but toned man with a strong chin, vibrant red hair and flickering eyes. While a young Donovan still had his slick back hair but black with a muscular frame.

Sturdy: “‘Bout time you bozos showed up! What took ya?!”

Samuel: “Calm down, Sturdy. You’ll lose your hair with that worryin’.”

Sturdy: “Yea, yea.”

Nitro: “Finally,youguysfinallycame! We’vebeenwaitingforevertostart–!”

Leland: “Wow, wow Nitro. Slow down, buddy.”

Nitro took a deep breath.

Nitro: “We don’t have much time, though. We only have so much time until someone realises that we’re not helping with the preparations!”

Samuel: “What ya got for us, Donny?”

Donovan held up a contraption that had everyone in an instant state of awe and confusion; a small golden brown thruster with straps attached to it, making it possible for one to wear the instrument on their backs.

Sturdy: “Are ya just gonna stand ‘dere or are ya gonna tell what the dang thing is?”

Donovan: “Cool your jets, Sturdy. I just wanted you guys to have a good look is all. Now, what you’re looking at is a jetpack.”

Leland: “Wow, you finally did it! That’s awesome, man!”

Donovan: “She’s a beaut, ain’t she?”

As Donovan was putting on the jetpack, Nitro commented; “Isn’titfunnythatyoumadethisinsecret?! Like nobody foundaboutthis!” Sturdy looked over to Leland, who translated Nitro’s fast paced talking.

Leland: “He said that it’s pretty strange that Donny built this thing without being found out.”

Samuel: “That is a good point. How’d ya do it, Donny?”

Donovan had fully strapped on his jetpack when he answered; “Sneaking off campgrounds when I can, finding material not too far from here and acquiring some resources from the camp, etcetera. It was hard but I made it work.” 

Donovan glanced to his left, then his right and also looked past the others to peer in the distance for any wanted onlookers.

Donovan: “Alright, the coast is clear.”

Samuel: “Yea, we weren’t followed. Let it rip, Donny!”

Little did the men know, Spencer Specific was hiding from their line of sight. Donovan flicked up a small compartment on his right strap, exposing a red button that he then pressed which activated the jetpack. Fire and smoke burst out of the jetpack’s exhaust, slowly but surely lifting Donovan into the air. Donovan was sent flying above the 16 foot tall tree they were standing under.

Sturdy: “Well I’ll be a monkey’s uncle.”

Leland: “Thought you were already one, Sturdy.”

Sturdy: “Hm, good one.”

Leland: “Thanks, Sturdy.”

Samuel made a few steps forward.

Samuel: “Look at you! Always talkin’ about building some flying machine to help with the war effort and ya did just that!”

Nitro: “Wheredidya– Where did ya find the fuel for that thing?!”

Donovan: “One of the stuff I acquired was herodium! They got a batch of it in the labs here! I made this thing fast too cuz when I’m on that battlefield, I wanna whizz around the air while I take out the bad guys!”

Leland: “Like a bullet!”

Samuel: “A living bullet!”

Donovan: “Living Bullet! I dig that!”

Donovan eventually touched down on the ground, turning off the jetpack afterwards.

Nitro: “Wait a minute! Youstolethosethings! Whatifyagetcaught?!”

Donovan: “I think I caught that! You’re asking what if I get caught for stealing from the camp, right?!”

Nitro nodded, his head going up and down as fast and as wild as possible.

Donovan: “Eh, I’ll deal with it. No worries.”

Samuel: “You are a salesman.”

Sturdy: “Yea, a snake oil salesman.”

Donovan: “ Ha ha ha! ”

A voice then added; “IGood one, Sturdy !” The men turned to see Spencer Specific closing in on them.

Samuel: “Spencer? How did you–?”

Spencer Specific: “I followed you, Einstein .”

Spencer looked over at Donovan who was trying to hide his jetpack.

Donovan: “Sam, Leland! I thought you said you guys weren’t followed?!”

Leland: “We were sure we weren’t!”

Samuel: “This is on me, Donny.”

Spencer Specific: “Is it now?”

Sturdy: “You want me to hurt ‘em?”

Samuel: “Easy, Sturdy. Spencer, what do you want, huh? Aren’t you supposed to be helping out with the preparations?”

Spencer Specific: “You are all in violation of a lot of things, let me tell ya. Sneaking off campgrounds, stealing from the camp itself? I don’t know Donovan, not a good look. Wouldn’t you say, Lewis?”

Nitro: “Leland?”

Leland: “Um… he’s right, Donny… this is uh… not gonna look good for you.”

Donovan: “Leland, what’s going on with you two?”

Samuel: “You were acting weird before too. Leland?”

Spencer Specific: “Hold on, acting weir–. What makes you all think that anything is going on? Anyway, I will have to report to the higher ups on what I saw–.”

Sturdy: “Specific, you bastard!”

Spencer Specific: “Ah ah ah, Sturdy. Don’t do anything rash now. Lewis, I can count on you as a witness, right?”

Samuel looked over to Leland, who averted the man’s eye, looking down at the ground and nodding his head.

Samuel: “Leland… what’s going on?”

Specific walked up to Leland, placing his hand on his shoulder as he looked smugly at the other men.

Spencer Specific: “Be seeing you all, you too Leland.”

Specific then left, his loud cackling permeating through the air.

Nitro: “Iam sooooc onfused!”

Sturdy: “Hey, Leland! The heck was that about?!”

Samuel: “Sturdy, it’s alright.”

Samuel approached Leland, standing before him and with a gentle voice, he asked; “Leland. Lefty, what’s going on?”

Leland: “I– I told you, stop calling me Lefty !”

Leland squeezed his eyes shut as she shouted at his friends but after opening his eyes and realising that he had readied his voice, he backed away, feeling ashamed of himself. Leland then ran off, the rest of the soldiers watching on in confusion.

_______________________

(Orchid Bay, The Grand Smith Mansion, Interior). Joe and Donovan were back inside the mansion, in the kitchen where the latter was washing the utensils he had used. The kitchen itself was large, with a marble countertop island, dual sink, several wooden cabinets and efficient appliances; a large white refrigerator between the steel silver stone and the rows of cupboards. Joe was standing by the marble countertop island, watching Donovan as he finished washing up, putting away the plate and teacup he used.

Dialogue:

Joe: “I don’t understand, why was Leland falling in line with Specific?”

Donovan: “I’m still in the middle of the story, Joey. That’d be spoilers.”

Joe: “Oh, right. Ya know, uncle Sam told me that you were the one that came up with the name ‘Living Bullet’ but that’s not the case, uncle Sam did.”

Donovan: “Hm, wasn’t he modest. Yea, your uncle Sam came up with the name. Did he also tell you about the The Living Bullet Project?”

Joe: “Yea, he did. He told me about how the government drafting you on the project but not just you.”

Donovan: “Yea, they tried to make it a whole thing, using my work to replicate success but that went belly up after they quickly realised that I was the only man for the job.”

The two men were alerted to a voice that asked; “And I supposed that would imply that you didn’t get discharged, that you won them over?” That person was Doris, stepping into the kitchen.

Donovan: “Oh, Dory. Well, I would say that’s spoilers but considering that I stand before you, a man having fought in the war, I would be inclined to tell you yes.”

Doris: “That’s good.”

Donovan: “Yes it was. Now, where were we–?”

Joe: “Before you continue, uncle Donovan. I wanted to ask.”

Donovan: “Hm?”

Joe: “I appreciate the story– or I should say, I want to appreciate it. What I’m trying to ask is–.”

Donovan: “What’s the message of the story?”

Joe nodded.

Donovan: “Well, you’re going to have to find out, now won’t you?”

Joe chuckled, then responded; “I guess so.”

Doris: “Please, continue.”

Donovan: “Hm. Now…”

_______________________

Spencer Specific was in the middle of moving equipment into several trucks when he was approached by Leland. Leland grabbed Spencer on the shoulder after he had loaded a crate into the back of a truck, pulling him away a bit.

Spencer Specific: “Oh hey, Leland. Aren’t you supposed to be helping with–?”

Leland: “Shut up! What the heck was that back there?!”

Another soldier asked; “You two alright?”

Spencer Specific: “Yea, we’re fine. Let’s take this somewhere else, huh Lefty ?”

Leland, through his gritted teeth, replied; “...Fine.” The two went behind the Mess Hall where Leland immediately pressed the stout man against the building’s walls.

Spencer Specific: “Ah ah ah, you know you can’t do anything rash.”

Leland: “What the hell, Specific?!”

Spencer Specific: “Your friends are in violation, Leland.”

Leland: “Then what’s taking you so long to report them? You getting cold feet?”

Spencer Specific chuckled, then responded; “What? Can’t I have a little fun first?”

Leland: “You prick!”

Spencer Specific pushed Leland back a bit, stepping in slightly as much.

Spencer Specific: “Who do you think you’re talking to, huh?! I could take away your precious position, your valour– I can run you out of here! Do you understand me?!”

Leland: “I accepted you threatening to ruin my life but now you’re bringing my boys into this?!”

Spencer Specific: “I see General Specific in my future and in that same future, all of you are not around. However, I can keep them around but only if you play ball.”

Leland snickered, prompting Specific to ask; “What’s so funny.”

Leland: “You have that much doubt in your own talents that you need to get us out of the way so your sorry ass can succeed?”

Spencer Specific: “You’d do good to watch that mouth, Lefty . So, what’s it going to be?”

Samuel answered; “Sounds like a tough question.” The two men were stunned to see the man in question standing before them. In the distance, Leland saw Sturdy, Nitro and Dononvan standing by. Leland whispered to himself; “ ...Lookouts. ” Specific tried to play off the shock of what was thought to be a secret conversation being discovered, doing so by dusting off imaginary dust from his left shoulder.

Spencer Specific: “Samuel, it’s bad manners to interrupt a conversation.”

Samuel: “What, you want to restrict my actions?”

Leland: “Sam, please… just go.”

Spencer Specific: “Listen to your friend, Sam. You might not want–.”

Specific was suddenly struck in the face, making him stagger back. He momentarily lost his footing, tilting to his right and almost falling over. Spencer luckily caught himself before truly falling over and was holding the left side of his face.

Spencer Specific: “Do you know what you just did?”

Samuel: “I punched you.”

Leland: “Sam, wait! Hold on!”

Samuel glanced at Leland before glaring at Specific, his blue eyes peering through his intense scowl.

Samuel: “What did you do to him? What did you do to Leland?”

Spencer Specific: “Wouldn’t you like to kno–.”

Samuel struck Specific again, this time sending him into the dirt.

Spencer Specific: “What the hell is wrong with you?!”

Samuel went over to Specific and grabbed him by the shirt collar, pulling him up and barking in his face; “Answer me, Spencer!” Spencer, instead of answering, opted to push Samuel back. He followed it with a punch that Samuel quickly weaved out of the way of. The two gave each other some space, circling one another as there was definitely going to be a fight.

Leland: “Sam, please! Don’t do this!”

Samuel: “Then are you going to tell me what’s happening between you two!”

Leland: “I…”

Samuel: “Then that just means I’m going to have to beat it out of Spencer here!”

Spencer Specific: “Beat what out of me?! Leland and I were just having a nice conversation before you showed up and assaulted a fellow soldier!”

Samuel: “Shut up, Specific! Don’t remind me that we’re on the same side!”

Spencer Specific: “You know what? Fine! I’ve been meaning to–!”

Specific was once again punched in the face, interrupting his sentiment and sending him back a bit. Specific was wiping his mouth when he managed to weave another punch coming his way. However he was then struck in the gut with a knee he couldn’t react to, knocking the wind from his body.

Leland: “Sam!”

Samuel: “Are you just going stand there and take it?!”

Specific roared and charged at Samuel, tackling him but was unable to take Samuel off his feet. He then opted to strike Samuel’s gut to repeat, forcing Samuel to push Specific back. Samuel then threw a punch that Specific caught, chuckling smugly. Specific threw off Samuel’s arm and swung at him but Samuel ducked under, grabbed Specific’s arm and lifted him off the ground. Samuel then slammed Specific to the ground before straddling him and pummeling his face.

Leland “Sam!”

Samuel: “He did something to you, Leland! And I’m going to get to the bottom of it!”

Sturdy, Nitro and Donovan were still watching from afar when they heard a voice pop up from behind them, asking; “Move aside.” The men turned to see who asked and Sturdy in particular was being smug but only for an instant as his face dropped from the shock of who he was looking at.

Nitro: “...Uhhhh…”

Donovan: “The one time your engine stalls.”

Samuel was still on top of Specific, beating on him with his fists, one after the other, left then right. Specific’s face began becoming disfigured from the pummeling until Samuel was suddenly lifted up by the arm and thrown back.

Leland: “General Tuddrussel.”

General Tuddrussel was quite tall with wide shoulders even though he was on the leaner side. He had a long mustache that was reaching for the ground and a lantern-like double chin that gave him the air of a superpowered being.

General Tuddrussel: “What the hell are you two doin’?!”

Specific staggered to his feet, wiping the red from his nose, when he answered; “General Tuddrussel, sir. Samuel was the one–.”

General Tuddrussel: “Shut yer yap, Specific! You and Jeralds are to be in military detention for the next six hours! Got it?!”

Samuel: “Yes, sir!”

Spencer Specific: “...Yes, sir.”

The general closed his eyes and took a deep breath, he then approached the two men, placing one hand per one shoulder. He sighed, the two men feeling the weight of what felt like his disappointment bogging them down.

General Tuddrussel: “We’re fighting a war , gentleman. The last thing we need is to fight amongst ourselves. We should have camaraderie. Camaraderie. ”

Samuel: “You’re right, sir.”

Spencer Specific: “Yea… we’re sorry.”

General Tuddrussel: “Good. It pains me to do this to you two. Get going.”

The two men walked off slowly, the shame of their actions leading to the general’s disappointment pulling them down with each step. The general turned to Leland and asked; “You alright, Leland?”

Leland: “Ye– yes, sir.”

General Tuddrussel nodded, but then glanced at the soldier’s left arm and asked once more; “Are you sure?”

Leland: “...Yes, sir.”

General Tuddrussel: “Alright, grab the rest of your friends and get moving. We have a war to prepare for.”

Leland nodded then ran off, meeting back up with Sturdy, Nitro and Donovan.

Sturdy: “Lewis, what’s the deal with you and Specific?”

Leland: “...Not now, guys… I’m sorry.”

Leland then walked off ahead of the pack, the three soldiers doing nothing but watching their friend create a wider gap between them.

_______________________

(Orchid Bay, The Grand Smith Mansion, Interior). Joe, Doris and Donovan were now inside the mansion’s living room. The room was painted a pale turquoise green, adorned with watercolour paintings of various sceneries such as beaches, boats on the sea and snowy mountain peaks to name a few. There was a cabinet filled with delicate porcelain crockery, a sofa and chairs with wooden frames and pattern ridden upholstery and a lit fireplace which quelled the cold air that rushed past the mountain top while also facilitating a cozy atmosphere. Donovan was sitting in his lone chair, next to a side table he rested his mug full of root beer on. He took a sip of the root beer, a small break from telling the story.

Dialogue:

Joe: “Uncle Sam did mention General Tuddrussel. Um, is it true that–? You know.”

Donovan chuckled.

Donovan: “Mhm. General Jeremiah Tuddrussel was the most masculine yet the most feminine man I’ve ever met and had the pleasure to be under. That came with its own trials, he had to battle his own demons. I suppose that’s why he had a fondness for Leland and why he– oop. Heh, almost spoiled a part of the story there.”

Val, who was in the room as well, sitting on the sofa between Joe and Doris, asked; “Oh, this General Tuddrussel battled demons? Now, that’s an account I wouldst hark to, brah!”

Donovan: “No, not literal– Maybe another time, Val.”

Val: “ Righteous. ”

Eddie, who was standing by his grandfather, then asked; “One thing, granddad. The name Lefty, I quite like the name. I do believe that Mr. Lewis could instead embrace that– so it doesn’t drag him down.”

Donovan: “Perhaps but, I don’t know.”

Doris made a comment, her stoic voice resonating throughout the room.

Doris: “When my change happened, I was called the worst names that you couldn’t even imagine. Some were justified– I won’t get into that here but others were only said to hurt me. Why would someone ever take on a name they didn’t like with pride?”

Eddie: “To empower that name.”

Doris: “Doesn’t make sense to me.”

Donovan: “I see the vision, Edwin, taking the name and making it your own–taking its power away and giving that power to yourself. But I’m afraid it won’t work here.”

Eddie: “Of course. Again, I’m sorry.”

Doris nodded nonchlantly.

Donovan: “Hey Joey, you alright there?”

Joe: “Hm?”

Donovan: “You’re starin’ off into space. You thinkin’ on something?”

Joe: “I am, yea. I see where you’re going with the story but I’m trying to apply it to my circumstance.”

Donovan: “Well, maybe it’ll help if I– you know, finish the story ?”

Joe chuckled, then replied; “Good point.”

Donovan: “Alright then. Now…”

_______________________

The night had fallen, the next day was slowly approaching and Leland was inside the barracks frantically packing a large dark green duffle bag. He was packing in essentials like clothes; white shirts, camo pants and even his toothbrush. Leland had zipped up his duffle bag when he was confronted by the others; Sturdy, Nitro and Donovan. They entered the barracks, approaching Leland’s bunk where they were shocked about what they walked into.

Donovan: “Leland, what–!? What is this?!

Nitro: “Waitainute! Holdon! Holdon! Holdon! …Are you… are you going AWOL right now?!”

Leland: “If you hadn’t noticed, Sam just beat Specific’s face to a pulp! Which means he’s going to be after me !”

Sturdy: “After you? For what?”

Leland: “I can’t–.”

Sturdy: “Can’t what? Can’t bear the fight anymore? Huh?”

Leland: ”This isn’t about the war , Sturdy.”

Sturdy: “I know.”

Leland stepped back and took a breath.

Leland: “I’m sorry, guys. It all just got out of control–.”

Donovan: “ What did, Leland? What’s happening between you and Specific?”

Leland plopped down on the edge of his bunk, letting out a heavy sigh.

Leland: “...I’ll tell you.”

Meanwhile, Samuel was stepping out of a room, into a hallway with General Tuddrussel coming out after him.

General Tuddrussel: “You didn’t have to stay the extra two hours, Jeralds.”

Samuel: “I had to, sir. My actions today were… I’m sorry for what I’ve done, sir.”

General Tuddrussel: “It's alright, son. Just don’t let this happen again, alright? I hate to do this to ya.”

Samuel: “I will, sir.”

General Tuddrussel: “Good. Now get going, we have a war to prepare for.”

Samuel nodded, then left. He walked outside the building, into the night and was walking along the path back to his barracks when he heard a click in the distance. Samuel was immediately on high alert, scanning the area. He then heard the voice of Specific; “Calm down, Jeralds. It’s just me.” Spencer stepped into view, the right side of his face covered in medical tape because of his injuries. Stepping up behind Spencer and out of the shadows, were five other men.

Spencer Specific: “Oh, I did bring some friends.”

Samuel: “...Don’t do this, Spencer.”

Spencer Specific: “That pity in your voice. Looking down on me, don’t you? A man of my size– of my appearance being a soldier? It bothers you, doesn’t it? Well, I’ll prove to you and everyone else that I can make it– I’ll get what I want and no-one’s going to stop me!”

Back at the barracks, Leland had fixed his extended black glove back onto his arm as the other men were in awe; their faces were stuck in perpetual shock, widened eyes exposing their entire sclera and their bottom jaws reaching for the floor.

Leland: “I know, right.”

Sturdy: “The heck? Why keep that to yaself, Leland?”

Leland: “I’ve been asking myself that everyday but just like I told you, Specific hung it over my head.”

Donovan: “You need to let Sam know. He stood up to Specific for you.”

Leland: “I know.”

Nitro: “He’sstilloveratthedetentionarea,let’sgo!”

Leland: “Yea, I’m ready.”

At the same time, Samuel’s battle against Specific and his cohorts was in full swing, hidden within the shadows of the night. Although he had to fend off six men, Samuel managed to hold his own. Unfortunately, it came to a point where Samuel was beginning to be overwhelmed because of the numbers he was up against. Even so, Specific was infuriated and his rage took control. He turned to his men and asked; “Do you have it?!” and that man then took out a rusted metal pipe and threw it over to Specific who caught it. Specific ran over to Samuel as he was dealing with the two other men, raising the metal into the air, ready to strike. Spencer swung down and everyone heard a loud whack, the sound of metal hitting skin. Luckily, Leland had come in the way, blocking the hit with his left arm.

Samuel: “Leland… your arm.”

Leland: “It’s alright, Sam. I’ll… explain later.”

Spencer Specific: “Get outta the way, Lewis! Or your time here is done!”

Donovan: “Eh, I think he’ll be alright.”

Specific looked back and saw that Sturdy, Nitro and Donovan had also arrived.

Samuel: “Guys.”

Sturdy, Nitro and Donovan then charged into the fray, making quick work of Specific’s cohorts. Nitro ran up and slid across the ground, knocking one of the men off his feet, causing him to fall on his back. Nathaniel then hopped on top and struck the man with a punch in the neck and then face. The second hit being the one that knocked the man out. Donovan ran up and dropkicked another man. The man was knocked back, going down into a roll, rolling across the ground like a wheel before managing to get back on his feet. However, the momentum given to him was still making him stagger backwards. Donovan then charged at the man like a bullet, knocking the man into a tree, knocking the man out cold. Sturdy was attacked by two of the men but his larger stature gave him the upperhand; he grabbed their punches, pulled them in and grabbed them by the neck. Trudy lifted them up and knocked their heads together, instantly knocking them out. Meanwhile, Samuel and Leland were taking on Specific and his last cohort; the former took out the cohort with a kick while Leland was struggling with Specific for the metal pipe.

Spencer Specific: “You’re done, you hear me?! You and Tuddrussel! All of you! None of you deserve to be here! You don’t deserve to be a part of any of this! You hear me, Lewis! You are a pariah, a nuisance, a freak !”

Leland: “Shut the hell up!”

Leland wrestled the rusted metal pipe away from Specific, throwing it to the ground. Spencer attacked, throwing a punch that Leland weaved under. Leland then planted his feet firmly into the dirt and tightened his left hand into a fist. Leland then reeled his arm back, gathering all his frustration and his rage into a punch. He then launched it up, an uppercut that struck Spencer into the chin, a powerful blow that lifted the stout man off his feet and sent him to the ground. Spencer Specific was out cold. Leland looked down at Spencer, focused and breathing heavily but his trance was ended by a hand on his shoulder, Samuel’s hand.

Leland: “Sam, I’m sorry.”

Samuel: “We need to talk, Leland.”

Leland: “I know.”

Everyone was back at the barracks, Leland was standing in the middle of everyone else as they waited for him to speak.

Leland: “...When I was a boy, I was out in the cold alone–like an idiot. It was a big forest so I ended up being lost and I was out there for hours where eventually…”

Leland took off his glove, exposing that his left arm was fully black, completely disfigured and looking like charcoal broken off a burnt tree.

Samuel: “Frostbite.”

Leland: “Yea. All my nerves were shot but my muscles still work– if anything, losing my nerves made me tougher.”

Sturdy: “That’s for damn sure, if what we saw back there is anything to go off of.”

Leland chuckled.

Leland: “Well, it does have its cons. When America got involved in the war, I wanted to fight for it but everywhere I went– no matter how much I tried… I couldn’t. I was rejected every time because of my arm. The looks they gave me, like I was some sort of monster.”

Nitro: “Sohowdidyou–? So how did you get in?”

Leland: “General Tuddrussel gave me a chance.”

Samuel: “So how does Specific come into play?”

Leland: “He found out about me, he found out about how Tuddrussel didn’t necessarily go through the proper channels to get me in here. He took pity on me, if it wasn’t for him… I would’v been rejected again. Spencer knew all of that and hung it over my head. He would remind me that he ‘controls my future’ and that I could be gone if I wanted to… that I didn’t belong here. Well, you heard him.”

Samuel: “Leland, I’m sorry. Why didn’t you talk to us about it?”

Leland: “I should have but… I’ve been through constant looks, words… attacks– especially attacks. I’ve been rejected all my life for my appearance constantly. I finally got a 1A, guys… I didn’t want to lose it.”

Samuel: “We would have accepted you, Leland.”

Leland: “I know and I’m sorry. We’re brothers, I should have trusted you… but I didn’t.”

Sturdy: “Eh, it’s alright. Sometimes a man feels he needs to handle his own business.”

Leland: ”Thank you for understanding.”

Sturdy: “Mhm. But next time, make sure that when you have to deal with your own business, make sure you deal with it. Got it?”

Leland: “Yea. I will.”

Leland was about to put his glove back on when Samuel held out his hand and asked; “Let me shake your hand, Leland.” Leland was stunned for a moment but he then smiled and shook hands with Samuel with his exposed left hand.

Donovan: “Bring ‘er in, Leland.”

Nitro: “How does it feel?”

Sturdy: “That’s a weird question, Nate.”

The brothers in arms shook hands, getting reacquainted with their bond. At that moment, Specific, who was in the corner of the room on the floor with his cohorts, woke up.

Spencer Specific: “What the…? Wha… what’s going on here?”

Leland: “Just a bunch of guys hanging out, is all.”

Spencer staggered to his feet.

Spencer Specific: “What?!”

Sturdy: “Imma hurt ‘em.”

Samuel: “Hold off, Sturdy. You, grab your goons and get going. Now. ”

Spencer Specific: “...What?”

Samuel: “We’re going into battle tomorrow and this country needs all its soldiers. There’s no issues here as long as you don’t cause any. We need to fight the enemy out there… not each other. Now, get outta here!”

Spencer Specific: “...Yea.”

Spencer woke up his cohorts and then they all left the barracks in shame. Spencer looked back and saw Samuel Jeralds, Nathaniel Nitro, Samuel Sturdy, Donovan Grand Smith and Leland Lewis relishing in their brotherhood and all he could do was watch in secret yearning before he officially left.

______________________

(Orchid Bay, The Grand Smith Mansion, Interior). Everyone was gathered before a giant frame painting that rested above the living room’s fireplace. Joe, Donovan, his grandson Edwin, Doris and Val were before the large lit fireplace, enjoying its warm heat as they stared up at the painting that was being illuminated by the fire’s orange glow.

Dialogue:

Joe: “September 25, 1918. Wait a minute–.”

Donovan: “Figured it out, huh? We were getting ready for The Meuse-Argonne Offensive which was where we got our name.”

Joe: “The Crack Commandos.”

Donovan: “That’s right.”

The people in the painting were The Crack Commandos themselves; Sergeant Samuel Jeralds or Uncle Sam, Sergeant Nathaniel Nitro or Sergeant Nitro, Captain Samuel Sturdy or Captain Sturdy, Major Donovan Grand Smith or The Living Bullet and Major Leland Lewis or Ultra-Boy.

Eddie: “So, did you figure out how to apply granddad’s message to your life?”

Joe: “I uh…”

Donovan: “Well, did you? You were really focused on that.”

Joe: “I don’t… I don’t know.”

Donovan: “Joey…”

Eddie: “You can’t be serious right now?! Isn’t it obvious?! It’s acceptance! General Tuddrussel accepted Leland in spite of his abnormality, grandad and the other commandos– your uncle , accepted the General in spite of his alternative demeanour and then Leland, the greatest example! When he told the truth, those same commandos accepted him !”

Donovan: “Edwin!”

Eddie: “But granddad, he knows the answer, he just doesn’t want to accept it! He just doesn’t want to accept that people will accept him!”

Joe: “Because it’s not the same!”

Joe's sudden booming voice instantly quieted the room.

Joe: “It’s not the same, don’t you  get that?! People hate us! You should have seen what they did to me when they found that I was different, if it wasn’t for my durable skin… I would’ve been dead ! Leland might have been called names, given looks, rejected and attacked for most of his life but at the end of the day… he was still human.”

Joe looked around at everyone, the realisation of his outburst making him feel ashamed.

Joe: “I… I’m sorry.”

Joe repeated; “I’m sorry.” as he walked away, leaving the living room. Donovan glared at Edwin, who replied with an apology.

Eddie: “I’m sorry, granddad. It’s just–.”

Donovan: “Go to your room, Edwin.”

Edwin softly replied; “Yes, sir.” and then left the living room. Donovan met up with Joe back in the backyard, sitting on the bench, watching the night sky. Donovan went over to Joe, sitting to his left, waiting for Joe to say the first word.

Joe: “I’m really sorry for my outburst, especially at Edwin–.”

Donovan: “No, he needed to hear that. Edwin uh– he gets ahead of himself at times.”

Joe: “I also apologise for my words against Leland, I didn’t want to reduce what he went through.”

Donovan: “I know, you were just frustrated… angry. You also went through a lot, Joey.”

Joey rested his elbows on his lap, hanging his head down as he sighed. Joe said to himself; “ ‘Things may bother me but I alloweth them not bother me’. ”

Donovan: “What’s that?”

Joe: “Nothing. It’s just something that Val said. He’s surprisingly wise for a man so…”

Donovan: “Odd?”

Joe chuckled.

Joe: “...You know… there is some truth to what Edwin said. I can either let my circumstances weigh me down or move forward.”

Donovan: “It won’t be easy but you know that already and there is a chance that…”

Joe: “Nothing gets better.”

Joe looked back up to the night sky, gazing at the star, particularly at a lone one.

Donovan: “That might be you now but eventually, you’ll find a way to others.”

At the same time, another star popped up next to the lone star, its sudden glowing light telling another story.

Donovan: “That’s a start, right?”

Joe smiled and nodded. Donovan checked his watch and jumped onto his feet after seeing that it was 8 o’ clock on the dot.

Donovan: “We have dinner at 9 but we haven’t even started making dinner yet.”

Joe hopped off the bench as well.

Joe: “I’m sorry– Hey, let me help.”

Donovan: “What did you think this is? Of course you’re going to help.”

Joe chuckled. Donovan and Joe went back in the house, stepping through the door and into the main lobby.

Donovan: “You go on ahead, I’ll grab Edwin.”

Joe: “Yes, sir.”

Joe went to the kitchen where he saw Doris and Val getting dinner started; Doris was washing the vegetables while Val was grabbing the chicken from the freezer. Joe cleared his throat, getting their attention.

Val: “Sup, brah!”

Doris: “Joseph, are you alright?”

Joe: “Yea, I am. I am sorry for my outburst back there. It also didn’t feel right to disrespect a soldier that fought for us. For that, I also apologise.”

Val: “Nay worries, bah. Ev’rybody blows off steam at times.”

Val sat the large chicken down on the kitchen island.

Doris: “Don’t worry too much, I empathise. I myself was a bit… emotional at first.”

Joe: “Really? You? But you seem so calm.”

Doris: “Mhm.”

Joe: “Well, thank you for accepting my apology.”

A voice then asked; “I hope you accept mine as well.” Joe turned around to see Donovan and Edwin standing at the doorway with the latter being the one that spoke.

Eddie: ”I apologise for my assertions from earlier. It wasn’t right of me, I’m sorry.”

Joe: “It’s fine, don’t worry about it but thanks.”

Eddie: “Of course. Thank you for accepting my apology.”

Joe: “Mhm.”

Donovan: “Now, let’s get dinner started, huh? We only have an hour.”

Joe: “Let’s do it!”

Donovan, his grandson and Joe then joined the others in making dinner. Donovan was watching everyone with a smile and seeing them forging bonds brought him back to his days with the Crack Commandos and for a moment, he saw his brothers in arms again.

Joe: “Uncle Donovan, could you pass me the knife?”

Donovan: “Hm? Oh, here ya go, Joey.”

Donovan passed the knife to Joe, who began cutting up the vegetables. Donovan grabbed more ingredients from the refrigerator and began washing them over the sink and through the window, he saw that same star. However, this time the lone star was surrounded by even more stars. Donovan glanced over to Joe who was currently chatting with other members of the house and smiled.

The Story Continues

Chapter Text

______________________

Doris suddenly shot up awake, her eyes were fully open while her free form afro caught up to the rest of her body. She looked over to her left bedside table, seeing that the time on the clock was 6:02 AM which made Doris let out a shocked yelp. Doris flipped up her polka-dot printed sheets and hopped on her feet where she made an immediate dash for the bathroom. She brushed her teeth, showered and washed her curly wild hair all while humming a tune which manifested into her dancing to her own jig. After she was finished, Doris fashioned her hair into a bun before re-entering her room. She replaced her towel for formal office wear; a white button up shirt, black pencil skirt, red heeled shoes and gold hoop earrings. Still humming her tune, as she grabbed her handbag and went downstairs to the ground floor of the apartment. She then sped toward the front door after coming off the last step. Doris opened the door where she was met by a young dark-skinned man; he was dressed casually in a pale grey hoodie that had “Milten University” on the chest, blue jeans and a pair of red sneakers. His hair was also curly but more tame than Doris’, being in a taper fade. He brandished a bright smile and cheery face, bathed in the light of the early morning sun that was soaring into the sky behind him.

Dialogue:

Doris: “Donnie, what’re you doin’ here?”

Donnie: “C’mon sis, I know you. You woke up late and now you’re leaving the house without even having any breakfast.”

Donnie held up a brown paper bag and exclaimed; “Grabbed you something from Thunderclap.” Doris chuckled with a sarcastic tone and took the bag, swiping it from her brother’s hand.

Donnie: “Aren’t you supposed to be in class?”

Doris stepped out of the apartment, closing the door behind her and locking it.

Donnie: “D, I’m going to college, not high school. I have a different schedule. One that I abide by, by the way.”

Doris: “ Mhm . I’m going now. Thanks for breakfast.”

Donni: “Anytime, sis.”

Doris hugged her brother tight then rushed off to work.

Doris: “I’ll call you later, ok?! Love you!”

Donnie: “Love you too!”

Doris was going down the street but she stopped at a payphone to make a quick call. After putting a coin in, she dialed the desired number and held the phone to her ear, listening to the ring.

Doris: “Oh! Hey, babe! Sorry, I didn't get to call you– Yes , I woke up late! …And I’m currently wasting more time calling you.”

Doris chuckled, she hugged herself with her free hand as she started swaying gently side to side.

Doris: “I knew you’d think it was worth it. Yea. Yea. So, we’re on for tonight, right? Alright, goodbye… Love you too.”

Doris hung up the phone, telling the person waiting to use it after her; “There ya go!” as she rushed past. Doris was passing by the many identical, nearly conjoined apartment buildings when she eventually came up on the bus stop. She was fortunate as she spotted the bus currently pulling up.

Doris: “Don’t leave without me!”

Doris ran up to the bus, entered and paid the fare.

Doris: “Morning, Alton.”

After the bus driver greeted Doris with a head nod, she went and found a seat closest to the window. The bus drove off and Doris went back to humming her tune. Doris wasn’t really worrying about being late to work, the only thing on her mind was fictional scenarios of how the night ahead would play out. She was bobbing her head side to side to the of her hummings until she felt sudden stabbing pain in her temples. Doris immediately felt that something was wrong as her head began beating like a drum set being struck with the intensity of a lightning strike. Doris held her head in her hands, her eyes were squeezed shut and screams of agony were the only sounds she could muster. Her screams got the attention of the passengers, prompting one to ask about her well-being.

Doris: “I don’t– I don’t know! My head! It feels like something is stabbing it from the inside! Beating on it like– like a—! Feels like something is fighting to break out of my head!”

Doris’ screams got louder, alerting everyone in the bus. She got up from her seat, thrashing around in the middle of the bus. Doris had tears flowing from her eyes as her screams continued to echo.

Doris: “PLEASE!!! PLEASE, HELP ME!!! I DON’T– AHHHHH!!!”

Her screams were then drowned out by the sound of metal, screams of fear and soon after, the thunderous boom of an explosion.

The setting sun showered the police officers and firefighters that congregated in the middle of the street. The reason being a demolished bus, charred black like charcoal and emanating with steam. It was being cooled down with streams of water being blasted out of several manned hoses while the officers would stop the brave soul that wanted to break through the perimetre. Seeing the commotion from his sister’s apartment, Donnie decided to find the source, coming upon the massive crowd and the aftermath of an explosion. He approached the crowd and asked one of its members; “Hey, what the heck happened here?” The onlooker informed Donnie that it was stated to be a “freak explosion” .

Donnie: “Freak explosion? Dang.”

Donnie stepped away from the crowd to call his sister, using the same payphone she did earlier that day. However, he couldn’t reach her as she was unaccounted for in the place she’s supposed to be. Shocked and worried, Donnie placed the phone back onto its latch.

Donnie: “D… where the heck are you?”

Donnie ran out of the payphone and went looking for his sister. Elsewhere, a homeless man was sleeping underneath a bridge, the only thing to his name was a worn out mattress, a metal barrel used as a fireplace and a radio. He was supposed to be alone in his pseudo home but he currently had a trespasser. He was completely unaware that someone had just walked past him, that person being Doris. She barely had any clothes on and had splotches of black all over her skin because of the extremely close proximity to the explosion. Doris saw the barrel of fire and had a knee jerk reaction to it, backing away from the fire and cautiously going around it. She then sat a few feet away from the pseudo fireplace but the radio’s hum still reached her ears. Doris was in a catatonic state, parts of her body covered in spikes of dark green metal and her eyes now glowed a bright shade of turquoise, they were lonely as her pupils and the like had disappeared. She was staring into space, a blank expression on her face. On the radio was newscaster Shaquille Silverstein and his voice flowed through the air but Doris didn’t react, not until she heard the words “bus explosion” which made her body jolt slightly in response.

Shaquille Silverstein: “A bus exploded in Anytown’s Green Grove earlier today. It was sudden and the source is yet to be defined. Unfortunately, this tragedy took the lives of fifteen people, including bus driver Alton Alabaster who was only five days from retirement.”

Shaquille Silverstein began listing off all the names of the passengers who had lost their lives in the explosions which in time made Doris’s eyes well up with tears. Yet she didn’t cry, she only sat still, staring into space as the tears of guilt ran down her face. Eventually the names began to blur together until Doris could hear nothing but white noise as the world wound her was slowly and surely being erased, leaving only the drowning sounds of the isolating dark abyss.

______________________

Year: 1946

(Orchid Bay; California, The Grand Smith Mansion, Interior). Doris suddenly closed the book she was reading, a book by the title of “Carrion Amongst The Clover” . The sound the pages made when clasped together was short and echoed through the room just as long. She was sitting alone in the living room, on the right side of the sofa, closest to the fireplace. Doris stared at the fire, being lost in the flying embers and the sound of crackling of the firewood. She eventually snapped herself out of her trance, shaking her head. Doris then placed the book down on the coffee table before her and took a deep breath as rested her elbows on her lap.

Dialogue:

Doris: “I’m getting the memories again.”

Doris looked over to the calendar that was hung next to the window, the date being June 14th.

Doris: “It is that time after all.”

Elsewhere, Joe and Eddie were doing their daily chores, currently in the middle of completing dish duty. They were in a routine constructed by Donovan; Joe was standing over the sink filled with soapy water, washing the grime and other greases from the plates while Eddie took the cleaned plates, dried them and then placed them onto the dish rack. Joe glanced at Eddie’s serious expression and snickered.

Eddie: “Something wrong?”

Joe: “No no, it’s just– you’re just a kid but you don’t particularly act like one.”

Eddie: “I have heard this before; that I don’t act my age, that I’m too uptight for my age but that ignores that fact that–.”

Joe: “That uncle Donovan raised you?”

Eddie stopped for a moment, meeting Joe’s gaze.

Eddie: “Yea, exactly.”

Joe: “I wasn’t thinking you should act your age, I was thinking that you remind me of when I was young, under the wing of my uncle Sam. The strict regiments, the task delegations, all of it. I know it all.”

Joe looked around the kitchen at large and continued; “You have a legacy to live up to, something to inherit after the fact. I know you’re just getting ready for it.” Eddie looked down at the plate he just dried with a white cloth, his reflection clearly visible upon the plate’s surface.

Eddie: “What… what did you inherit from uncle Samuel?”

Joe’s hands slowed, gliding across the plate with the soapy rag in a clockwise fashion.

Joe: “I would like to think that I inherited his mission, to protect his country that he left behind.”

Eddie: “I see–.”

Joe: “Unfortunately… I don’t know if the people within it are…”

Eddie: “Are?”

A voice offered up an answer; “Worth the trouble.”, making the two turn around to see Doris standing by the doorway. Joe chuckled.

Joe: “I uh– hm.”

Eddie: “Oh, today is the day, right Ms. Doris?”

Doris: “Yes it is.”

Joe: “The day? What’s happening today?”

Doris: “I’m going home and you’re coming with me.”

Joe: “Oh, really?”

Eddie: “This is a tradition that we adopted much recently when it comes to Ms. Doris. One member– except for my case since granddad accompanied me, would travel with Ms. Doris to her hometown.”

Doris: “And since you’re new…”

Joe: “I’m next in line.”

Doris: “Mhm. So, what do you say?”

Joe: “It would be an honour, Doris. Thank you.”

Doris: “Sure.”

Joe got dressed; he was wearing a white shirt under a dark blue jacket, khaki pants with red and white sneakers. He grabbed his essentials; toothbrush, extra clothes and his personal soap, slung his bag over his right shoulder and headed out the room. Doris arrived in the garage first, stepped off the final step and ventured forward into the garage. She walked past some of Donovan's collection of cars; Maseratis, Jaguars and Roadsters until she arrived at a particular one, a Maserati A6. Its base colour was red with a broad white stripe going down the middle. Doris had a small bag over her shoulder, throwing it in the back of the car just as Donovan walked up.

Donovan: “It’s been a while, huh Dory?”

Doris: “Only a year but I suppose.”

Donovan: “Alright Dory, stow that excitement, huh?”

Just then, Joe then arrived, greeting both.

Donovan: “Hey Joey. She’s a beaut, isn’t she?”

Doris had her hair fashioned into a large bun, she was wearing a green long sleeved top that hugged her figure and bell bottom jeans with crystals adorned on the back pockets. Unfortunately, her shoulder and calves spikes were jutting through the fabric of her clothing, ruining them.

Joe: “Doris? Well, she is very beauti–.”

Donovan chuckled, confusing Joe and making him stop mid sentence. He then looked at Doris who was staring back at him with her glowing bright eyes. Joe then saw her eyes dart over to the Maserati she was standing next to and it was then he realised the true meaning of Donovan’s question, nervously clearing his throat.

Joe: “I uh…”

Doris: “It’s alright.”

Donovan: “Thanks for the laughs, Joey.”

Joe: “Glad I could help. Anyway– so, a Maserati A6, huh? Quite the possession, uncle Donovan.”

Donovan: “Sure is, it was one of my first cars after we came home from the war. It was one  your uncle and I were cruising down the streets of San Fran in. I think at that time, the golden gate wasn’t finished yet.”

Doris: “Hm, you’re that old, huh?”

Donovan: “ Really old. But hey, that just means I get to be there when cool things happen and you guys aren’t.”

Joe chuckled.

Donovan: “So, you two ready to go?”

Doris: “I’d say so.”

Donovan: “I did some modifications to the engine and when I say modifications, I mean I replaced it with a herodium powered one. You’ll be in Reno in no time.”

Donovan placed his hands on both Doris’ and Joe’s shoulders, pulling them in a bit.

Donovan: “Be careful out there, I think of you as my own so come back in one piece. That’s an order.”

Joe: “Yes, sir.”

Doris responded with her signature cold monotone voice; “We will.” Donovan released his hold of worry and replied; “Good.”

Joe: “So, what’s the name of your hometown?”

Doris: “Anytown.”

The garage door opened up and the red streak that was the Maserati shot out, going down the driveway and through the gates that automatically opened for them. Doris and Joe were on the road, going down the winding road at high speeds, forward to their destination.

(Anytown; Nevada, Day). Two young men were walking down a hallway of Milten University, there was a row of lockers to their right and a glimpse of the outside world to their right. The right wall was nonexistent, the space instead filled with several columns with wide gaps in between for people to pass through. On the other side of the columns were green grass with pathways made of brick and concrete platforms decorated with benches and tables, one of the school’s commune areas for students and the like to intermingle. The two arrived at their class, stepping through the door and into a large room lined with desks and chairs in horizontal fashion with a stage at the end of the room. Down below was the lecturer’s desk, chair and large rectangular chalkboard that took up most of the back wall with the words “Quantum Physics 101” written in chalk. Donnie and his friend Earl were having a conversation on their way to their seats. Donnie was wearing a red shirt with a broad blue stripe with two smaller white stripes on each side running across the shirt horizontally. He wore blue jeans that were a shade dark and red sneakers. Earl wore a plaid shirt, burgundy jeans and brown heavy duty shoes. He had a simple haircut and some facial hair.

Dialogue:

Donnie: “Alright, alright. Wait, tell me her name again?”

Earl: “Jojo, man. Jojo .”

Donnie: “Alright, man. My bad, you haven’t been drip feeding me all the info so it’s gonna take a bit to lock them down.”

Earl: “Don, we’re entering a quantum physics class, there’s no excuses.”

Donnie chuckled.

Earl: “Look man, I’m tellin’ you, this girl is the one .”

The two reached their seats but didn’t sit down.

Donnie: “The one, huh. So what, you two are thinking of going steady or something?”

Earl: “I don’t know, maybe. You see, she’s from Herkelton way in Maryland so she’s only in Nevada for school.”

Donnie: “So she plans on going home after, huh?”

Earl: “Yea, so there’s still a lot of stuff to talk about before that but…”

Donnie: “ But? ”

Earl: “I don’t know, man. I think I might be down to have the talk.”

Donnie: “Hey man, I’m happy for you. Hopin’ for the best for you two.”

Earl: “Thanks, brotha.”

The two did a special handshake that ended with the collisions of their open palms that ended with them flicking their thumbs. A voice then declared; “Mr. Dalton, Mr. Williams, please be seated.”

Earl: “Sorry, Mr. Jablonski. But we’re at our seats, though.”

Mr. Jablonski: “But you’re not seated , are you Mr. Williams?”

Earl: “Tu che.”

Donnie chuckled as he and Earl took their seats. As the lessons continued, Donnie felt as if something was off, looking around the room in search of something or someone.

Earl: “Don? What’s up?”

Donnie: “I don’t– Hold on.”

Donnie held up his hand and asked the lecturer; “Hey, Mr. Jablonski?! Have you seen Julie–?!”

Mr. Jablonski: “Uh, Ms. Bean had been through some… changes , which means that she unfortunately had to drop out of school.”

Donnie: “Changes, huh?”

Mr. Jablonski: “That’s right, Mr. Dalton.”

Donnie: “Hm.”

Donnie heard whispers around him but the one constant within those quieted conversations that managed to reach even his ear was E.V.O. After the class ended, Donnie and Earl were leaving the classroom, the latter still being hung up on the disappearance of Julie Bean.

Earl: “Don, you good?”

Donnie: “Nah– alright, it’s Julie, man. She ‘changed’ ?”

Earl: “Yea, I picked up on that too– the whole class did, to be honest.”

Donnie: “Hope, she’s good.”

Earl: “Yea, especially with those new folk walking around.”

A voice asked; “New folk?” Before the two young men, stood the Twain Twins; Polar and Solar Twain. They were tall with brown hair, Polar’s being messy while Solar had his hair in a ponytail. Polar Twain was eating ice from a cup while Solar was drinking hot sauce through a straw.

Earl: “Guys, c’mon. Not now, alright?”

Solar Twain: “Polar, he’s pleading with us. That’s no fun.”

Polar Twain: “So true. Guys, chill out, huh? We just wanna hang.”

Donnie: “Get lost, you guys shouldn’t even be showing your faces considering…”

The twins stepped closer and Polar asked; “Considering… what? Donnie? ”

Donnie: “You’re smart, figure it out.”

Mr. Jablonski asked; “Do we have a problem, gentlemen?”, prompting the young men to look back at their lecturer.

Earl: “Nothing, Mr. Jablonski! We’re all good!”

Solar answered; “Yea, we’re just… hanging .” before glaring at the duo as he drank more of his hot sauce. The twins then chuckled then walked off. Donnie glared at them, their cackling echoing through the hallway as they ventured on.

Earl: “Man, those guys, ah?”

Donnie: “Yea… those guys.”

Earl: “So uh, you coming by the dorm?”

Donnie: “Can’t, man. I got family coming through.”

Earl: “Oh– Ooh . That’s today, huh? Alright, man. Have fun, cool?”

Donnie smiled and replied; “Yea.” before the two did their special handshake.

Earl: “Tell her hi from me, yea?”

Donnie: “Will do, man.”

(Sacramento, Day). Doris and Joe made a stop in Walton, a small town in Sacramento County, a real mix of suburban and rural in its looks and experience. They were at a gas station to get food and fuel; Doris was pumping gas in the car while Joe was inside the gas station, paying for it as well as getting food from the supermarket. Doris was wearing her brother’s Milten University hoodie over her clothes to hide her spikes but she was still vigilant of her surroundings, looking around as the numbers on the gas pump went up. Joe eventually stepped out of the gas station with two rectangular boxes of donuts in his arms.

Dialogue:

Joe: “Almost done?”

Doris: “Almost.”

Joe walked up with the boxes of donuts.

Joe: “You know, I heard a couple Waltons inside talking about a celebration– one that’s been going on for the past 17 years . Don’t you just love the act of tradition, it’s what America is all about, you know.”

Joe took out a glazed donut from the top box and took a bite.

Doris: “Donuts, hm?”

Joe: “Yea, there’s a Donut Dity in there. There’s one back in Townsville, I used to grab a couple of them while on my beat.”

Joe took another bite and then concluded; “Didn’t know they were a franchise.”

Doris: “I see. Are they any good?”

Joe, already having a donut in his mouth, answered; “I’d say so.” his words coming through his muffled chewing. The numbers on the gas pump reached its stop and Doris took out the hose and hooked back onto the latch.

Doris: “We’re ready.”

Joe: “Alright, let’s go.”

The two entered the car; Joe placed the donuts in the back seat, Doris turned that key, then stepped on the gas and they were now back on the road.

Joe: “Wow, we really made good time, huh? We’re gonna be in Reno in a couple of hours by this point. Uncle Donovan, you really outdid yourself.”

Joe glanced at the hoodie Doris was wearing, noticing the bulging on the shoulders from her spikes trying to bore through.

Joe: “I was wondering if– because I have powers and so I was wondering if…”

Doris: “I had them too?”

Joe: “Yea.”

Doris: “I was called ‘The Woman Made Of Metal’ . The spikes are just the tip of the iceberg, I can coat my body in the same metal.”

Joe: “Oh, ok. That’s uh, yea. That’s… yea.”

Doris: “Mhm.”

Joe: “Sorry for prying, it’s just that I noticed your vigilance back at the gas station and–.”

Doris: “You were wondering if there were any pros to the constant cons. I appreciate it, Joe but you know that there are no pros to this. Look at you for instance, even after you protected the people of Townsville, they still saw you as a monster.”

Joe: “Yea. I’m guessing you’ve been through the same, unfortunately?”

Doris: “When I left, I had my fair share of anger aimed at him. I was targeted everywhere I went.”

Joe: “You know… someone told me that people don’t need a reason to hate, that sometimes they just do.”

Doris: “What do you think? Do you think there’s a reason?”

Joe: “That’s all I ever thought, that there had to be a reason to hate– just like there’s a reason for anything we do. Maybe they were wronged… by us, experiencing things that led them to that hate. But now, I guess I’m learning that sometimes people hate… just because.”

Doris: “Have you considered a third option?”

Joe, while grabbing a donut from the back seat, asked; “A third option?”

Doris: “Sure. People obviously hate what they don’t understand, ignorance is where that fear– that hate comes from. A fear of the unknown. Sometimes, the fear is valid…”

Joe: “And other times?”

Doris: “It’s not.”

Joe took a solemn bit of his donut.

(Anytown; Nevada, Green Grove, Day). Green Grove was on the west side of Anytown and known for its lush green parks and goat throwing spots events, with its most notable landmark being Green Grove Retirement Home. Doris was driving Joe down where they happened upon The $1.03; it had the appearance of a large cash register with a green paint job and a giant neon sign that brandished its name in red light.

Dialogue:

Joe: “That’s charming.”

Doris: “Wait for it.”

Doris turned the corner where they then happened upon the $1.02 which made Joe chuckle. He looked over to Doris, expecting a similar reaction, only to see her wearing her usual cold expression, only feigning a slight chuckle. He was always curious about her lack of expression but not wanting to offend, he wouldn’t ask. They continued on, passing by a sign that read “Schyler Street” where the apartment buildings touched the sidewalk and were similar in appearance.

Doris: “This is where I grew up.”

They drove past a row of apartments that were to their right, Doris slowing down when approaching one in particular.

Doris: “This place in particular, my brother and I’s childhood home. Been here ever since our parents passed.”

Joe: “My condolences.”

Doris: “Thank you.”

Joe saw a familiar face, an old woman by the name of Jebidessa Bravo; she was going up the stone steps to the front door where she opened the door with her key and entered inside.

Joe: “Wait a minute, I know her– the old woman. That was Jebidessa Bravo, she used to live in Townsville. She must have moved after… everything.”

Doris: “She lives in our old apartment. Donnie… had to give it up when I left, he stays at the dorm full time now.”

They stopped at a spotlight, Joe looking over at Doris who was making sure that her hoodie was keeping her hidden, glancing once again at the Milten University insignia.

Joe: “So, tell me about your brother.”

Doris: “Donald but we call him Donnie– more like he prefers to be called that. He’s a sophomore at Milten. That’s outside Green Grove.”

Joe: “Oh, what does he study?”

Donnie: “Quantum Physics.”

Joe: “Nice. Glad to see the bright minds of this country being nurtured.”

Doris: “He was always smart, always heading towards something bigger than himself and I couldn’t be prouder.”

Joe: “What about you?”

Doris: “Me? Joe, look at me.”

Joe: “I know but– alright, what was life like before everything?”

Doris: “I used to work at John Merrick Elementary in Riverside… I had a boyfriend, I had a usual at the Thunderclap Diner… I even knew the bus driver’s name. I’d say that I had a pretty normal life, comparatively speaking.”

Joe: “Compared to now?”

Doris: “Compared to my brother.”

Joe: “I still think you have a chance, Doris. There’s this notion that I kind of abide by, where you can take something evil and use it for good.”

Doris: “The world has to change first.”

Joe chuckled, then replied; “I can’t even argue with you there.” Joe suddenly froze, he then started darting around, scanning his immediate area.

Doris: “Something wrong?”

Joe: “I hear something… very familiar.”

Doris: “What?”

Joe: “The sound a gun makes when someone is walking down the street with it in their back pocket.”

The two drove past a stout man, meeting his gaze with their own as they cruised by.

Doris: “Him?”

Joe: “Yea. Can’t believe he’s just walking around with a gun like that.”

Doris: “He’s probably licensed.”

Joe: “I sure hope he is.”

Doris and Joe eventually arrived at the Thunderclap Diner, pulling into the parking lot and parking in the furthest spot from the building itself. It had a vibrant blue sign with the words Thunderclap fashioning the same colour but in a brighter hue while the word diner was in red. It towered over the duo, its shadow creeping across the ground the sun moved through the sky.

Joe: “I hear footsteps, they’re careful.”

Joe shifted the boxes of donuts to the side just in time for Donnie to enter, having a place to sit.

Donnie: “Oh, thanks.”

Joe smiled and nodded.

Doris: “Donnie, this Joe– Joe, this is my brother Donnie.”

Joe reached in hand over his seat to shake Donnie hand, showing off his signature bright smile.

Donnie: “Joe, huh?”

Joe: “Yes sir, Joseph Jeralds. But you can call me Major.”

Donnie: “Major, like the military?”

Joe: “Not really, I mean I wish . It was a nickname from my late uncle Sam.”

Donnie: “Wait, Uncle Sam is your actual uncle?”

Joe: “Yep.”

Donnie: “Sweet. So, you’re from the house too, right?”

Joe: “Yep, it’s actually my uncle’s.”

Donnie: “I’m guessing your uncle was that guy that came with his grandson that one time?”

Joe: “You’d be right.”

Donnie: “Oh, cool. So D, is he your new guy? You two going steady?”

Joe was lost for words while Doris didn’t even flinch, Joe was only alleviated after Donnie started chuckling.

Donnie: “You should’ve seen your face. I’m just given’ you a hard time, man.”

Joe let out a nervous chuckle. Donnie then asked; “Could I grab one of these?”as he pointed at the boxes of donuts.

Joe: “Sure, sure.”

Donnie then grabbed a glazed donut from the box, still chuckling to himself.

Doris: “So, how’s school?”

Donnie: “I got a crap ton of projects to do, as usual. Nothing I can’t deal with, though. Oh, Earl did say that he found himself a good woman– he says hi, by the way.”

Joe: “A good woman, huh? That sounds nice.”

Donnie responded; “Mhm.” as he took a bite of his donut.

Donnie: “So, what kind of powers do you have?”

Joe: “Hm, well, they’re kind of like… Hm, I guess there’s nothing to really compare them to, huh?”

Donnie: “Sounds like you hit the jackpot then. You still even get to keep your good looks.”

Joe: “Yea, I was fortunate.”

Donnie: “Mhm.”

Doris: “Alright, now that we’re settled. Time to go.”

Joe: “Where too first?”

Doris: “There is a theme par–.”

Donnie: “Hold on, there is something that happened at school today. It’s been bugging me the whole day.”

Doris: “What is it?”

Donnie: “Yea uh… it’s a schoolmate of mine, she didn’t show up today. I found out that she dropped out.”

Joe: “Dropped out? Why?”

Donnie: “She became an E.V.O.”

Joe: “Was she… forced out of Milten?”

Donnie: “Of course she was but that’s not just what I’m worried about, there’s more to it.”

Doris: “Donnie, what’s wrong?”

Donnie took a moment, then continued; “There’s been some… people that sprung up in Green Grove a couple months back.” Doris and Joe faced Donnie and the former asked; “What kind of people?” Donnie sighed.

Donnie: “They call themself The Puritans .”

Doris: “Puritans?”

Donnie: “Yea, they’re a bunch of guys who want to purify Green Grove of the so-called ‘corrupted’ .”

Doris: “They’re hurting E.V.O.s?”

Donnie: “We don’t really know… we just know that when the Puritans get involved, some of these guys are never seen again.”

Joe: “And you fear that Julie might be in danger?”

Donnie: “Of course, man. We weren’t really friends or anything but… I– I worried about her, ya know?”

Joe: “...We know.”

Joe turned to Doris and declared in a voice that was driven; “Doris, we have to help.” Doris was a bit hesitant but she eventually agreed with a head nod.

Doris: “Yea, we’ll help.”

Donnie: “Thanks, you guys. I really appreciate this.”

Joe: “Of course.”

Donnie was driven back to Milten, Joe being at the wheel while Doris was hiding her appearance with her brother’s hoodie in the front passenger’s seat. Donnie exited the car and after closing the door, the duo sped off. Donnie waved them goodbye with the duo responding with a honk of the car horn.

Doris: “So, how’re we going to find Julie?”

Joe: “I have an idea.”

Elsewhere in Green Grove, A young woman just exited the Blimpo Mart convenience store. She was wearing extremely baggy clothes, a pale grey hoodie and spacious pale blue pants. She had on sunglasses with a bag filled with food in her hands and was in a rush to get out and get home. However, she ran into a road roadblock, that being The Twain Twins obstructing her path. As usual, Polar was eating ice from a cup and Solar was drinking his hot sauce.

Polar Twain: “ Hey Julie, missed ya at class today.”

Solar Twain: “Hold on, Polar. I think she just stole from the Blimpo Mart.”

Polar Twain: “Oh yea, I think you’re right, Solar.”

Julie Bean: “N– no, I paid for it! I paid!”

Polar shushed Julie, holding up a finger up to his mouth which showed off a particular symbol on the back of the black glove he was wearing. It was the symbol of the Puritans; the letter “P” coloured in white, enclosed by two circles. Polar then took Julie’s sunglasses off her face, exposing some of her physical mutation. Her skin was a puke green with wrinkles along her mouth and chin. Her skin had resembled the exoskeleton of an insect, complete with two extra eyes, the four of them having red colour like rubies. Polar dropped the sunglasses and crushed them under his boot.

Polar Twain: “You may have been able to fool the cashier with that get up but not us.”

Solar walked over to the end of the sidewalk where a car was waiting.

Solar Twain: “Let’s go for a drive, huh?”

The duo drove into Green Grove; Doris was at the wheel while Joe was scanning the area as they cruised along. The red light lit up, prompting Doris and the three cars before them to stop in their tracks.

Doris: “Are you going to explain the plan?”

Joe: “I’m listening for the person with the gun I heard earlier. Donnie mentioned that these men branshied a mark– either a tattoo or something on their clothing and I caught a glimpse of it on his chest earlier. I think what I saw matches up with what Donnie said.”

Doris: “Ok.”

Joe glanced at Doris.

Joe: “You hesitated back there.”

Doris: “Yes, I did. And?”

Joe: “Doris.”

Doris: “Joe, there will always be hatred for us and there will always be people that enact that hate.”

Joe: “So what, we don’t help?”

Doris: “I didn’t say that. What we’re doing is only stopping the symptom and not curing the disease. The day the world changes– like I said before, is the day that life for us will be better, not before.”

Joe: “But the world won’t change if we don’t do anything about it.”

Doris: “Just this morning, you were thinking it wasn’t worth it. What changed?”

Joe: “I remembered my mission.”

Doris: “We’re saving an E.V.O., not a human.”

Joe: “It’s a start.”

Doris: “All I’m saying is, we don’t have any real power, nothing will change.”

Joe: “I’m sorry but I don’t believe that.”

Doris: “Not anymore, you mean.”

Joe didn’t have a response.

Doris: “Mhm. So, have you got anything yet?”

Joe: “...Not yet– wait…”

Joe turned to his left, looking out the driver’s window, at the same man that was going down an alleyway. The man was of course stout with a receding hairline, some stubble and dressed in a blue overall over a very greasy white t-shirt that had a slit on the neck that exposed some of his hairy chest. The light turned to green and Doris drove over to the sidewalk, parking at the alleyway’s entrance. The duo then stepped out of the car and went down the alleyway, Joe calling out to the man as he was walking; “Good afternoon, sir! May I ask your name?!”

Dobbs: “Why, you a cop or somethin’?”

Doris: “Used to be.”

Joe: “Uh, well.”

Dobbs noticed Doris’ glowing eyes and immediately pulled out his gun and pointed it at her.

Dobbs: “Damn fouls !”

Joe: “Fouls?”

Dobbs: “Do you know that you’re standing next to a freak?!”

Dobbs pointed right at Doris’ face and she was still wearing her stoic and cold expression, unaffected by the barrel of his gun staring at her. Doris took off her hoodie, showing off the metal spikes protruding from her forehead and her jawline.

Doris: “Are you going to shoot me?”

Joe heard the click of the gun and reacted and in a flash, Dobbs found himself pressed against the wall and his gun in Joe’s hand.

Dobbs: “You’re a dupe !”

Joe: “I’m guessing– based on context clues, that those are E.V.O.s that look like you?”

Dobbs: “Let go of me, you freak !”

Joe crushed the gun with a single squeeze.

Joe: “Let’s try this again.”

Joe, Doris and Dobbs drove out to the outskirts of Green Grove, to an abandoned barnhouse. It was surrounded by a wide dirt road that was transformed into a race track that stretched for yards. The sound of revving engines and rubber skidding over dirt resonated from the track as a race was happening, two cars racing to the finish, vying for victory.

Joe: “So the Puritans are car people, huh? Unfortunate.”

Dobbs, who was in the back seat, responded; “Yea, sure. Hey uh, can I take one of these donuts?” Joe looked back and saw Dobbs’ hand already on the box and grimaced.

Joe: “Just take them, your germs must have already rubbed off by you sitting next to them anyway.”

Dobbs: “Sure, freak.”

Joe flicked Dobbs in the forehead but because of his super strength, it was extremely painful than one usually would be. Dobbs latched onto his forehead in agony as he screamed while Joe wiped his fingers off with a sanitised cloth.

Doris: “Let’s just get this over with.”

Joe and Doris got out of the car and started approaching the race track, coming up on a long line of people on sidelines all cheering for the cars they mentally chose to win as they drove past at high speeds.

Joe: “They’re not clocking us, they’re too focused on the race.”

Just then, every onlooker turned and pulled their guns at the duo.

Joe: “I stand corrected.”

The race was halted as one of the cars, a black roadster, stopped its forward momentum and went the opposite direction of what it was driving. The car drove up to the crowd, coming off the race track, avoiding all the bystanders as it skidded to a stop. The driver’s side opened and a man stepped out.

Doris: “This is him, I presume?”

Joe: “Yep, this must be Fang.”

Fang was a tall man with facial stubble, neck length auburn hair, slight wrinkles and an eyepatch. He wore a black sleeveless shirt and dark blue jeans with two gun holsters, a pistol secured on each side. Once he stepped out of his car, he was thrown his brown trench coat that he put on as he stepped a few feet away from his car.

Fang: “Looks like we got some visitors!”

Joe: “We heard about some new folk that came into town, thought we’d pay a visit.”

Fang: “Oh, I see. But why would we want a visit from lowly fouls? How did you even find this place? It was Dobbs, wasn’t it? Was it Dobbs?”

Doris: “Yes. Yes, it was.”

Suddenly another car then pulled up, the twin’s car, parking to the right of Fang. The doors then opened and the Twain Twins came out, they then opened the passenger side door and pulled out Julie Bean from the backseat and threw her at Fang’s feet. Fang pulled out a gun and pointed it at Julie’s head.

Joe: “WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING?!!”

Fang: “My duty.”

Joe sped up and saved Julie, pulling her away right as the gun went off. To Fang’s shock, he had shot the ground and when he looked over to Joe, he was back where he stood, holding onto Julie.

Fang: “So what now? Are you going to bring her back to the vile parents who still chose to raise this foul ?”

Joe: “Did you expect them to just abandon their child?!”

Fang: “No, I expected them to do the world a favour and take her out of it.”

Joe: “You sonuva–!”

Fang: “Why do you help her– you know, apart from being fouls yourself. Why do you prevent purification?”

Joe: “Killing an innocent girl is not purification!”

Fang: “You call it killing, I call it… correcting a wrong. They were rules to this world and if we don’t make sure that those rules aren’t abided by, we lose this country– heck, we lose this world .”

Fang stepped a few feet closer to Joe and Doris, asking them; “Don’t you care for this world? Aren’t you afraid of losing it?” Fang glanced at Doris, who only stared back with her expressionless face, he then glanced over to Joe who was glaring at him with rage.

Fang: “I am.”

Fang quickly aimed at Julie Ban and pulled the trigger just as fast. Luckily, Joe managed to react, grabbing the bullet before it struck Julie and then threw it away. Julie had let out a shriek as she guarded her body from what could have been.

Julie Bean: “...I… you–.”

Joe: “You’re alright, Julie.”

Joe turned to Fang and asked with a boom in his voice; “You asked if I didn’t care for this country– for this world! Of course I do, just find it hard answering stupid questions!”

Fang: “I can’t take you by your word, foul .”

Doris walked up to Fang, her body being covered in the same dark green metal colour that her spikes bore. She then struck Fang in the chest, sending him flying into the side of his roadster. Fang staggered to his feet, propping himself up using the hood of his car as he grabbed his gun and stuck it back into his holster.

Polar Twain: “Fang!”

Fang: “I’m… I’m fine…”

Fang coughed into his hands.

Fang: “Hm. Never seen a power like yours before, foul.”

Doris: “Oh.”

Fang: “You’re an odd one, aren’t you? You don’t say much but they say that people who don’t say much, think plenty. What’re you thinking about all this?”

Doris: “What am I thinking? I think this world is the way it is and that's it. The world changes everyday and people act according to those changes. Some are worse than others.”

Fang: “Are you saying that I’m wrong for the way I react to this change of yours? Are you suggesting that we should coexist ?”

Doris: “Maybe but that’s up to you.”

Fang: “As you can see…”

Fang stretched his arms open and in response, everyone cocked their guns.

Fang: “We made our decision.”

Doris looked around at the nozzles pointed at her and the others and answered; “I see that.”

Fang: “There is no coexistence, either your kind take us out or we take them out.”

Joe: “You seriously think that E.V.O.s are just going to wipe everyone out?!”

Fang: “The way I see it, yea. If we don’t act, it will be the end of us. The end of humanity.”

Doris: “You do fear us.”

Fang: “Of course.”

Doris: “Why?”

Fang: “I already said it, because you make no damn sense. Now…”

Fang gave a gesture and everyone aimed their guns. Joe quickly grabbed Doris then the Twain Twins’ car and propped it up before himself, Doris and Julie Bean. They were then bombarded with a multitude of bullets.

Solar Twain: “Wait, that’s–!”

Polar Twain: “Doesn’t matter about the car, just shoot!”

Jule was crouched down, screaming at the top of her lungs as she held her head.

Joe: “Julie, we’re fine! We’re going to be fine!”

Doris: “What’s the plan?”

Joe: “We wait.”

Fang looked on as his people fired down on the trio with a hailstorm of bullets until all their magazines were empty.

Polar Twain: “We’re empty!”

Joe: “Now!”

Doris: “Ok.”

Joe: “Julie, stay here, ok?”

Julie Bean: “Yea, yea. Don't worry about that.”

Both Joe and Doris leapt from behind the now decimated car, the latter creating a small sandstorm when crashing down before the Puritans. Doris then burst through the dust cloud, already coated in dark green metal, striking multiple men and sending them flying with open palm strikes. Fang watched as Joe and Doris took down his Puritans left and right, prompting him into pulling out both of his guns. Fang began shooting at Doris, Joe was about to intervene when Solar Twain intercepted.

Solar Twain: “Where do you think you’re going, foul !”

Solar had a shotgun that he was about to fire at Joe. Joe, of course, was fast enough to react but not fast enough to stop all the beads within the shotgun fire, opting to bottlecap the nozzle of Solar’s shotgun with his hand and taking the brunt of the shot in his palm.

Solar Twain: “Heh heh, so you do bleed.”

Joe glared at Solar, crushed the nozzle of his shotgun, snatched it away from him and then knocked Solar out with a punch. Fang was still shooting at Doris, the bullets bouncing off her metal skin, when he noticed the Twain twin going down.

Fang: “No!”

Fang holstered his guns and ran over to his car, reaching inside and taking out a rifle.

Fang: “PURITANS, LEAVE MY LINE OF FIRE!!! I DON'T WANT TO HURT ANY OF YOU– THESE TWO FOULS ARE DOING THAT ENOUGH ALREADY!!! I DON’T WANT TO SHOOT ANY OF YOU, NOW GO !!!”

Polar grabbed his brother and then he and every other Puritan scattered before Fang started shooting at both Joe and Doris.

Doris: “Joe, go for Julie.”

Joe sped back to the car to be with Julie while Doris took the brunt of Fang's rapid and relentless gunfire. He roared as he bombarded Doris with a multitude of bullets, the shells that once encased them littering his feet. Joe was taking in all the sounds around him; the bullets ripping through dirt and bouncing off metal, bullet shells falling to the ground and the soft whimpers of Julie Bean next to him. It was then that Joe had a realisation. In that moment, Fang’s and Doris’ eyes crossed paths and he gasped after catching a glimpse of the emptiness in her eyes. Just then, Fang’s rifle suddenly ran out of ammo.

Doris: “Are you done? Because, all things considered, that still hurts.”

Fang went straight for his holstered pistol at the same time Joe popped up from behind the car.

Joe: “Doris, we need to go.”

Doris: “Seriously?”

Joe: “We’ve done more harm than good here! We need to get Julie out of here!”

Doris glanced over to the car that was being used to shield Julie from gunfire.

Doris: “...Alright.”

Fang was reloading his pistols when Joe grabbed both Doris and Julie Bean and then sped away.

Fang: “NOOOO!!!”

He tried chasing after them but the only thing he was seeing was a trail of dust and then they were gone. Fang then heard the engine of a car driving away into the distance and grimaced, screaming from the frustration. Fang finished reloading his guns, sighed and then holstered them. The Maserati skidded to a stop on a lonely road that led out to the outskirts of Anytown’s Green Grove. The door then opened and Dobbs quickly exited the vehicle with the two boxes of Donut Dity donuts in hand.

Joe: “Wait, where do you think you’re going?!”

Dobbs: “Away from this stinkin’ town!”

Dobbs then ran off, Joe shouted for the rotund man to stop but Doris’ hand on his shoulder quelled his yells.

Doris: “Something tells me he won’t be getting far.”

Joe sighed, he then glanced over to Julie and told her; “Sorry you had to sit next to him.”

Julie Bean: “It’s ok.”

Joe: “Hm. …I’m going to have to wipe down the entire backseat. Make sure you take a good shower too, Ms. Bean.”

Julie Bean: “Uh, yea… sure.”

Doris glanced over to Joe, who was wrapping his hand in the same sanitised cloth from before.

Doris: “How’s your hand?”

Joe: “It’s fine, the bleeding stopped and it already started healing. It’s just gonna take a minute.”

Doris turned to Julie and asked; “So, where is your house?” The car pulled up to a house in Green Grove where Julie’s parents were at the door, waiting for their daughter.

Julie Bean: “Thank you so much!”

Joe: “Of course.”

Doris: “Go be with your family.”

Julie nodded, then got out of the car and ran into the arms of her parents.

Joe: “We did good today.”

Doris: “Yea.”

Doris started up the car and drove off. It was nightfall when the two were parked by the $1.03 Store that was closed at that point, the roar of the engine going silent from Doris shutting off the car.

Doris: “No, we didn’t do good today.”

Joe: “Excuse me?”

Doris: “What we did has become a waste of time, Joe.”

Joe: “Wait, what do you mean?”

Doris: “Why did we leave without taking Fang out first?”

Joe: “Because things were getting out of hand, Doris! Julie was still in danger!”

Doris responded; “Then the logical thing to do was to take Fang out so that Julie and others like that are living in fear in this town could rest easy at night.” her voice still shrouded in emotionless monotone.

Joe: “We’ll get them, Doris. We’ll take them in .”

Doris: “I wanted to show my hometown, Joe. This was supposed to be a moment of solace; I showed you my childhood house, introduced you to my brother –.”

Joe: “Doris–.”

Doris: “Joe, we’re mixed up with evil instead of enjoying what quiet we had.”

Joe sighed.

Joe: “I’m sorry, Doris.”

Doris: “The next time we see Fang, we take him out, for good .”

Joe was in awe of Doris’ declaration. Doris saw that Joe was about to say something so she turned on the car’s radio to put an end to the conversation. However, the voice that came over the radio made Doris take a pause.

Shaquille Silverstein: “There was a shoot out earlier today on the outskirts of Anytown’s Green Grove. The area was an abandoned barnhouse and was cleared out by the time the Anytown Police had arrived–.”

Doris regained movement in her body, turning off the radio.

Joe: “...Doris, you alright?”

Doris nodded. Joe glanced at the radio then back to Doris and asked; “Do you know him?”

Doris: “We were going to get married.”

Doris revved up the engine, prompting Joe to ask; “Where are we going now?”

Doris: “To tell my brother goodnight.”

(Anytown, Riverside, Night). Riverside was on the east side of Anytown, completing the town’s three sections. Fang was standing in a cemetery, looking over a particular headstone that read; “Scottie Fang” and nothing else. He was approached by one of his Puritans, a woman who was taller and more muscular than the average. Her brown hair was fashioned into a bun, she had on an eyepatch and wore a white shirt with blue jeans and black belt with a big gold buckle.

Dialogue:

Fang: “Marge, did the twins get back to school ok?”

Marge Malachi: “Yea, Solar does have a headache but he’s fine.”

Fang: “Good. And Dobbs?”

Marge Malachi: “Dealt with. Found him with boxes of half eaten donuts– got blood on them.”

Fang: “Hm.”

Marge was gazing at the headstone when Fang asked; “Do you miss your sister, Marge?”

Marge Malachi: “No, I miss who she used to be… before the corruption.”

Fang: “Good answer. After the corruption they are no longer human– no longer one of us and that scares me. Because at any moment, we could lose that same humanity.”

Marge Malachi: “Like your son did.”

Fang: “Yes. Poor Scottie. He was begging for my help when it happened… I remember the fear in his eyes when the barrel of my gun was staring him in the face… the same fear I felt from the corruption itself– what those poor souls in Townsville felt. There is no other solution, there is only the end. Them or us.”

Marge Malachi: “Them or us.”

Fang looked back at Marge and nodded. Suddenly, the Twain Twins appeared, running in at the end of the conversation.

Fang: “Polar? Solar? Why aren’t you in school?”

Solar Twain: “We were, that’s why we’re here!”

Fang: “What’s wrong?”

Polar Twain: “Donnie, a schoolmate of ours! He’s in cahoots with the corrupted– with the fouls that showed up at the old base today!”

Fang: “Really?”

The twins both nodded in sync.

Fang: “Bring this Donnie to me.”

To Be Continued

Chapter Text

The sound of the car engine revving and rubber wheels going across the asphalt blocked out every other sound around Doris. She and the others were on their way back to the west coast but that thought along with others were escaping her mind the further she traveled. Eventually, even the sounds of her brother and Joe conversing and the car itself were being muffled until Doris heard nothing but the constant beep of white noise. Her surroundings were also being diminished, disappearing as she fell deeper into the void. The isolation of black; a lonely place that Doris found herself alone, driving across the asphalt that started breaking away with each step. Doris tightened her grip only to realise that not only the steering but the car as a whole was gone and so was Joe and even her brother. Her face was still blank, emotionless but that anxiety that was boiling beneath the surface was shooting up like a whale escaping the depths. Fortunately, the hand of another laying on her shoulder pulled Doris out of her trance, pulling her out of the dark pit and back to reality.

Dialogue:

Doris: “Hm? What is it?”

Joe pulled away his hand and replied; “I should ask you that. “ Donnie, in the backseat, asked; “Sis… you good?”

Doris: “Yea, why?”

Donnie: “C’mon, D. Did you– ya know–?”

Doris: “Don’t worry about it.”

Joe and Donnie shared a look of concern but did as asked, burying their urge to pry.

Donnie: “So uh… we’re going back to Orchid Bay, right?”

Doris: “Yea, a new amusement park just opened up on the coast.”

Joe: “Doris… it’s likely that you won’t be able to enter.”

Doris: “But my brother can.”

Donnie and Joe shared another look of concern.

(Orchid Bay; California, Day). They returned to Orchid Bay, Joe even spotting and pointing out the mountain that The Grand Smith Mansion was perched on as they drove by. They went down to the bay area, where the new amusement park had opened up on the coastline. The first thing they saw after turning the corner was the park’s giant roller coaster and ferris wheel that was little over half the roller coaster’s size.

Dialogue:

Joe: “Whoa, was this always here?”

Doris: “Yes., it was finished last week. You were dealing with your funk to notice.”

Joe: “...Huh.”

Donnie: “What’s this place called?”

Just then, the trio drove by the giant pale pink sign with the words “Mondo A Go-Go Coastal Amusement Park” written in white bold letters, the park’s namesake being larger on the sign. The Maserati pulled into the parking lot and both Joe and Donnie then exited the car.

Donnie: “What do you want, D?”

Doris: “...A churro.”

Donnie: “Aight… D, you sure about this?”

Doris turned to her brother and faked a smile which caught Donnie off guard.

Doris: “I’m sure. Go have fun.”

Donnie: “Aight.”

Donnie and Joe were about to talk off when Doris called back the latter.

Joe: “Hm? Doris?”

Joe approached the driver’s side of the car.

Doris: “Donovan fitted the car with a far reaching antenna.”

Joe: “Huh, really? Nice.”

Doris: “Mhm. I’ll be listening out for Fang and the Puritans in the meantime.”

Joe: “Alright.”

Doris: “Remember what I told you, Joe. When I pick up something, we’ll deal with it… for good.”

Joe: “...Yea, I remember.”

Joe patted the roof of the car and then stepped away. Once inside the amusement park, Donnie and Joe were surrounded by bright colours and enticing activities; The Wild Prawn ride, The Man-Eater roller coaster and the Blue Circle ferris wheel to name a few. Donnie pointed to a food truck that he and Joe approached, passing by the truck sign which read “The Human Crab” .

Donnie: “Human Crab? You guys sell human crabs here?”

The man inside the truck, manning the kitchen chuckled, then answered; “No no, we’re just a bunch of humans selling actual food. No te preocupes.” ( “Don’t worry.” )

Joe: “No te preocupes. Hispanic?”

The man introduced himself as Enrique, correcting Joe; “I’m Mexican.” He was a stout man with a long face and slight brown complexion. He had a prominent chin and barely any hair; he had hair behind his ears and another tuft of hair as a crown. He was dressed casually with a “Human Crab” apron which had a little graphic of a crab holding up the words on it.

Donnie: “I do like me some crab.”

Joe: “Is there anything on the menu?”

Enrique: “¡Sure, seguro!”

Joe: “Hm. We might wanna go on the rides first before we eat something, though.”

Donnie: “Good point. We’ll be back, alright?”

As the duo walked off, Enrique shouted: “Si, we will be here!” Donnie and Joe were walking around, looking at all the rides they passed when Joe asked; “Where to first?”

Donnie: “I got an idea.”

Joe suddenly found himself barreling down the tracks of The Man-Eater roller coaster with Donnie by his side. Joe was a bit overwhelmed at first but when he looked to his right, he saw Donnie throwing up his hands and shouting for joy and that imagery brought a smile to his face. Joe then began getting into the fun himself, yelling just as loud as he threw up his own arms, the moment making Donnie smile. They went on to go on every ride in the Mondo A Go-Go theme park; from the Wild Prawn to the Blue Circle ferris wheel. After the fun rides, the two went to get their food from Enrique. The two enjoyed their meals as they walked down the broadwalk; Joe got himself a burger and fries while Donnie got the crab, both with a bottle of Cola Cola in hand. Specifically, Donnie would holster his in his back pocket when eating while Joe would tuck his soda between the arm and side.

Joe: “You know, I’ve never really ridden a roller coaster before– or a ferris wheel for that matter.”

Donnie: “Oh yea? Never had a carnival or something back home?”

Joe: “Not really. I’m from Farmsville, nothing there but crops and more crops.”

The two chuckled.

Joe: “They were still fun stuff to do, of course. My uncle would take me to the river all the time, either for fishing or swimming– or both… Those were good times.”

Joe took a bite of his burger.

Donnie: “Remind me of me and D. Our parents used to take us to the Anytown Goat Throwing festival every time that time of the year came around.”

Joe: “You two had some great times, right?”

Donnie ate two of the crab’s legs before taking a drink of his Cola Cola, putting it back in his back pocket.

Donnie: “Yea… even after our folks passed, we would still hang. I still remember her smile… her laugh. Haven’t seen a genuine one in a while.”

Joe: “You noticed that, huh?”

Donnie: “Of course I did. That smile back in the car… she’s just putting up a front, for my sake.”

Joe: “I’m sorry.”

Donnie: “Yea– I gotta thank your uncle, though. Donovan. Not only did he find my sister but he also gave her a home. Because god only knows she doesn’t have one outside that mansion anymore and that… that pains me, man.”

Joe: “Yea. I’m realising that I’m lucky I get to walk into the open like this because I look human– a dupe they called me. At the end of the day, all these people, if they knew… things would be very different.”

Donnie took another chunk of his crab, washing it down with another gulp of Cola Cola. At the same time, Joe took a big bite of his burger when he asked; “I was just curious, she said she left after she changed. Was she…?”

Donnie: “Ran out?”

Joe: “Well, yea.”

Donnie: “That happened to you, right? Back when you were a cop?”

Joe: “Yea. So I was wondering if she had to go through that same pain.”

Donnie: “...Nah, it was worse than that. She just… she just couldn’t come back home after what happened.”

Joe: “What happened?”

Donnie: “Not my story to tell, Major.”

Joe: “Fair enough.”

The two had eventually finished their burgers and crabs, finishing the rest of the Cola Colas to wash down the food.

Donnie: “I wanted to thank you again for helping Julie out.”

Joe: “No problem, I’m just doing my duty.”

Donnie: “Duty, huh?”

Joe: “Sorry, force of habit. So, how is she? How’s Julie?”

Donnie: “Yea well, she and her parents moved outta town. I don’t blame them, anything to get away from these dang Puritans.”

Joe: “Well, you don’t have to worry about them for longer. We’re going to deal with Fang and his little squad.”

Donnie: “You’re going to kill him, right?”

Joe: “Wait, hold on. I don’t want to kill anyone . I just want to bring them to justice.”

Donnie: “That’s why D’s gonna do it, not you.”

Joe: “What was that? Hold on–.”

Donnie: “Hey man, you seem like a good guy– you’re not built for this.”

Joe: “Fang needs to be punished for his heinous acts! Put him into the deepest hole if you need to but no-one’s ki–!”

Donnie: “Fang and people like him need to be buried underneath the prison and if you can’t do it… people like D will!”

Joe: “And you’re ok with this?! You’re ok with your sister being a killer?!”

Donnie: “O– of course not, man! But she’s grown so I can’t stop her! It ain’t my place!”

Joe: “So you’ll allow your sister to fall deeper into that pit she’s in?!”

Donnie: “Wait… what?”

Joe: “In the car, the look on her face– I know that look! …I’ve been there.”

Donnie: “...It’s not like there isn’t some part of me that doesn't like this, that’s screaming for me to stop her but…”

Joe: “But?”

Donnie: “She won’t listen to me, I know she won’t listen… she thinks that she’s too far gone.”

Joe: “I don’t think she is.”

Donnie: “That’s nice but you don’t know her story.”

Joe looked over to Doris and replied; “You’re right… I don’t.” A beam of light then hit Joe in the eye. The light turned out to be reflected sunlight from Doris’ spikes. She had done this to get the two men’s attention and they then quickly hurried over.

Joe: “Did you hear something about the Puritans?”

Doris: “No but there was a robbery at your school. A magnet was stolen from Milten’s Physics department.”

Donnie: “Wait, what?! Did you hear who it was?!”

Doris: “No. Now, get in.”

Joe: “Wait, why?”

Doris: “To take out Fang like we discussed.”

Donnie: “That’s if you can find him. They’re a secret, no-one in town knows who they really are, only that they roam.”

Joe: “Then how did you find out about them?”

Donnie: “Wrong place, wrong time. Remember when I told you about them having either tattoos or symbols?”

Joe responded with a head nod for both him and Doris.

Donnie: “Polar was wearing a particular glove once.”

Doris: “Do they know about you?”

Donnie: “Nah, I wasn’t close when I saw it.”

Joe: “Good thing.”

Donnie: “Yea. So, it’s not easy to find them.”

Doris: “We’ll figure it out. Get in.”

(Anytown; Nevada, Milten University, Evening). The trio had arrived back in Anytown by sunset and the Maserati pulled up to the front entrance of the campus. Joe was at the wheel while Doris was in the passenger seat, using her brother’s loaned Milten University hoodie to hide her visage. Donnie exited the car and approached the driver’s seide, resting his hands on the roof of the car.

Dialogue:

Donnie: “Joe?”

Joe: “Don’t worry, I’ll watch her back.”

Donnie: “Good. D, be careful out there.”

Doris: “I will.”

Joe: “You sure you don’t want us to drive you over to your dorm?”

Donnie: “It’s cool, I just need to grab something from my locker real quick.”

Joe: “Alright.”

Donnie was still present, staring at his sister.

Donnie: “Uh…”

Doris: “Hm?”

Donnie shared a look with Joe, then responded; “...Nothing. Nothing, it’s cool. You two be careful, alright?”

Doris: “Yea.”

Donnie backed off and Joe then revved up the engine and skidded off. After watching them leave campus, Donnie went inside the university building. He walked down the hallway to his locker and was digging into it when heard laughter coming from up the hallway. Donnie looked to his right where he saw the Twain Twins walking up to him, cackling like hyenas. Donnie slowly closed his locker as they got close, prompting Donnie to back away preemptively.

Donnie: “I don't got time for you too right now. Beat it.”

Polar Twain ate a couple of ice cubes from his cup, then answered; “Didn’t you hear about the robbery earlier today?”

Solar Twain: “They told us to stay in our dorms for the rest of the day, didn’t they Polar?”

Polar Twain: “They sure did, Solar.”

Solar jiggled as he took a sip of his hat sauce.

Donnie: “So you two are gonna escort me to my dorm or what?”

The twins shared a look, chuckling with each other. Donnie rolled his eyes and tried to leave but the twins blocked his path. Out of nowhere, Donnie decked Solar Twain in the face, making him drop his hot sauce. However, Polar snuck Donnie with a punch that made him stagger back a bit. Donnie shrugged off his daze and tackled Polar to the ground where he began wailing on him, incessantly punching Polar in the face. Unfortunately, Solar kicked Donnie in the temple, sending him to on his back where Solar and Polar began kicking him relentlessly.

Elsewhere in Anytown’s Green Grove; Doris walked up to a payphone next to the $1.03 Store, put in a coin, took the phone off the latch and placed it next to her ear. After a couple of rings, those on the other side finally picked up the call.

Doris: “Donovan, hello. …Yes, we’re back in Anytown– yes, we did see the mansion on our way in and out of Orchid Bay. …Oh, he’s picking up some food for us.”

Just then, Joe had pulled up in the car, food in the front passenger seat.

Doris: “He’s here now. …Yea, we’re alright. Yes… see you soon.”

Doris placed the phone back onto the latch, hanging up the call. She then turned to Joe who exited the car. She made her first step away from the payphone when it began ringing, catching both Doris and Joe off guard. Joe and Doris locked eyes for a moment and then Doris answered the call.

Doris: “...Hello.”

Fang: “Oh, hello. Good manners from fouls keep taking me for a loop.”

Joe, hearing the call from the car door, began scanning the surroundings, looking if Fang was nearby.

Joe: “Damn, he’s lucky I can’t see through walls.”

Doris: “Where are you?”

Fang: “Looking for me, eh? Well, that’s why I called, I want to meet up.”

Doris: “ Where are you? ”

Fang: “Hm hm. You can find me at the ol Eternitoys building in Riverside.”

Doris: “I’m on my way.”

Fang: “I’ll be waiting.”

Doris hung up the phone and walked over to the car, asking Joe; “You heard that, right?”

Joe: “Yea, I did.”

Doris: “I’m driving.”

Joe handed the keys over to Doris and he then went to the front passenger side. The two arrived in Anytown’s Riverside, pulling up to the abandoned Eternitoys buildings; unkempt and greasy, covered in graffiti, cracks in the structure, broken windows and the once vibrant sign that read “Eternitoys” was now drained of all its colour. They exited the Maserati and began walking up to the building, stepping through the massive front doors that were torn down through wear and tear. Inside the Eternitoys building was like a wasteland, decorated with scatterings of empty shelves, dust and the occasional rodent. Fang was waiting down an aisle of a couple of these empty shelves, standing under a flickering light fixture.

Fang: “It was cleaned out several weeks ago, bought up by a new company– what was it called?”

Joe: “I think you’re talking about Wacko Toys.”

Fang: “A knowledgeable foul, huh. You see, that’s the scary thing about change. People would argue that change is good, a very nebulous statement when you examine it further. Because much like this building… and a foul being bright…”

Joe scowled.

Fang: “I don’t think all change is good .”

Doris: “I’m over this.”

Doris made a step but was stopped by Fang; “Ah ah ah.” He then held out his hand and made a gesture and on his queue, more of his Puritans came into view. Marge Malachi, The Twain Twins and more of the Puritans. Doris was in shock about who came out with them, her brother Donnie. Fang noticed Doris’ wide eyes expression and looked back at Donnie, looking at his battered and bruised riddled body.

Fang: “I’m sorry, we didn’t want to hurt him. But he was being a bit resistant .”

Doris: “You… why’re you doing this?”

Fang: “I want to kill you and you're going to let me.”

Doris: “You think we’re just going to stand here and let you kill us?”

Fang: “Yes.”

Doris: “Idiot. I wanted to kill you and this only made me more motivated.”

Doris made another step but was stopped once again after she heard the click of a gun. A gun that was being held to her brother’s head.

Fang: “You see what they did to a human despite our motto. You kill me and they’ll kill him. So, are you going to work with me or not?”

Joe: “Work with you?! Alright, this ends now!”

Joe sped up to Fang and grabbed him by the arms but to Joe’s shock, Fang began laughing.

Joe: “The heck is wrong with you?!”

Fang bared his teeth, revealing a pin and the next moment, dropped something in his jacket pocket. Joe went after the object in his pocket but Fang shot at him, forcing Joe to react to that thus distracting him from his first action. Joe dodged the bullets and because of that, he didn’t have enough time to get rid of the object. Fang uttered; “Boom.” just as Joe got to the object in his pocket which turned out to be a grenade that then exploded. He was sent flying through the air before crashing into a couple of empty shelves.

Solat Twain: “Woohoo! Yea!”

Doris looked on in worry at the fiery crash side of Joe when she heard her brother calling out to her.

Donnie: “Doris!”

Donnie was unfortunately then struck in the face by Polar Twain using the butt of his gun, sending him to the ground. The sight angered Doris further and she coated her body in dark metal in response. Doris charged at Fang while being riddled with bullets from the Puritans, ignoring each shot since they were bouncing off her reinforced skin. Doris came down on Fang with a punch that he managed to evade, making Doris shatter where he stood. Fang flipped around and began firing pistols that were disregarded by Doris’ defenses. Doris attempted to run at Fang only to be shot from the side by a shotgun, sending her back a bit, her feet digging into the ground to stop her momentum. Doris saw that she was shot by Solar Twain, a bullet shell flying out of his shotgun after cocking it. Solar took one last sip of his hot sauce before slamming it to the ground and charging at Doris, firing off his shotgun as he ran in. Solar got close and fired but the nozzle of his shotgun was grabbed and crushed by Doris’ metal hand, preventing the shot from escaping. She then grabbed the gun away from the twin and whipped it in his face which sent him flying.

Polar Twain: “Solar!”

Polar, Marge and others began bombarding Doris with rifles and pistols, a firing squad that was seemingly overpowering Doris. Fang ran over to Donnie, yelling out; “Keep firing!” as he grabbed Doris’ brother by the arm, picking him up off the ground.

Donnie: “Let go of me! Doris!”

Fang: “Listen, I’m sorry that we hurt you, alright?! The fouls were the only ones–!”

Donnie pushed Fang off and threw a punch that Fang unfortunately grabbed.

Fang: “Fear lies within but you aim that fear at your fellow man instead of the enemy… Pity.”

Fang then twisted Donnie’s arm. Donnie heard her brother’s scream of agony which gave her a second wind, fighting back against the gunfire and rushing towards the Puritans. Doris bulldozed through the firing squad, going over to Fang and sending him flying into a shelf with a swipe of her arm.

Marge Malachi: “Fang!”

Polar stepped up, saying; “I got it!”, pulling out a couple grenades of his own. Doris had her brother in her arms when she saw a grenade land before them.

Donnie: “...D?”

Doris turned her back to the grenade just before they went off, another explosion rocking the abandoned Eternitoys building. The ringing in his ear was the first sound Donnie heard when he opened his eyes. Looking down on his body, he saw that he was in one piece, protected by his sister. However, the explosion had also separated them. He got back on his feet, moving through the smoke as he called out his sister’s name. Meanwhile, Doris was struggling to get out a cough, the force of the blast giving the feeling as if her brain was rattling around her head. Doris shook off the daz as she got up on her feet, eventually regaining her bearings. She then heard her brother’s voice, seeing him stepping out of the smoke into the cloud she was in.

Doris: “Donnie.”

Donnie: “Do–.”

The two then heard a gunshot and Doris’ eyes widened in shock as she saw red flowing from Donnie’s lower abdomen.

Donnie: “...ris.”

Doris hurried over to Donnie, catching him before he fell back to the ground. She looked back and saw who fired the shot, that being Polar Twain. The bullet coming from his pistol. Doris roared; “AHHHHH!!!”which resonated throughout the building and even brought Joe back to consciousness.

Joe: “...Doris?”

Doris gently laid down her brother and then got up, facing Polar Twain and charging at him, her roar bellowing out. Her reinforced skin made her stride destroy the floor as she charged at the one who shot her brother.

Polar Twain: “Ah, ge– get away from me, you freak!”

Polar Twain fired his pistol in fear, trying to deter Doris but she was unwavering. With tears in her eyes, Doris reeled back her tightened fist and launched it forward, striking Polar Twain in the face. She struck Polar with all her might, a fist so strong that numerous teeth flew out of his mouth as he bottom jaw was completely decimated, flying off the hinges. Fang saw Polar flying overhead before crashing into a shelf.

Fang: “...Polar– POLAR!!!”

Doris went back over to her brother, taking him in her arms as her metal coating receded.

Fang: “You… you damn foul ! You hurt one of us, how dare you hurt one of us !”

Doris completely ignored Fang, fully preoccupied with her brother’s condition. Joe was on his hands and knees, watching as all the guns took aim at the Dalton siblings.

Joe: “Doris… Donnie.”

Joe took off, tearing up the floor with his sudden sprint. He ran across the battlefield, grabbed the siblings and whisked them to the car in a blur all before the guns went off.

Fang: “Wait! WAIT!!! STOP!!! STOP!!! ”

Fang ran over to Marge and pushed her gun down with the other Puritans following suit, lowering their weapons.

Marge Malachi: “They’re… they’re gone.”

Joe had placed the siblings in the backseat, looking at them using the overhead driver’s mirror as he was driving away. Joe also saw Fang run out of the building and quickly took aim at them. Fang began firing at them, precision shots that Joe narrowly managed to evade but the car had still sustained damage; the areas being the back window and the rear lights of the car.

Fang: “DAMMIT!!!”

As Marge was running out to Fang, she called out to him; “Fang! Fang!”

Fang: “Polar, is he… is he alright?”

Marge Malachi: “...No, he’s not.”

(Anytown, Riverside Hospital, Night). The Maserati pulled up to the hospital doors but Joe was the one that charged inside with Donnie in his arms, fighting for air and dripping all over the place. He ran around the hallway yelling for help as tears flooded his vision, brought on by looking down and having the chance to take in Donnie’s condition. Multiple doctors came up to Joe, taking Donnie from his arms and placing him down on a gurney. Of course they asked Joe about his wounds; his bleeding, bruises and burns, wanting to tend to him as well in spite of his reluctance.

Dialogue:

Joe: “Wait– hold on, I’m alright! I’m ok, take care of him! Take care of him! ”

Even so, the doctors insisted and eventually Joe relented and accepted the doctor’s help. Outside in the car, Doris was in the backseat, staring ahead as tears flowed down her face. She was taken back to the night she changed, the explosion took her back to the dark pit, to the isolation that seemed to have followed her everywhere since that day. It was within that darkness that Fang stood out, walking across the void which brought her back to reality. Doris saw Fang and Marge Malachi carrying the severely hurt Twain Twins into the hospital. Joe was being escorted to a room when he saw Fang and his hurt Puritans enter through the doors, their presence immediately changing the mood, creating a tense atmosphere only between them while everyone else were thankfully oblivious. They locked eyes all the way to their registered rooms. The night fell and the moon rose up in the sky, illuminating the earth with rays of white light. Joe was in his hospital bed, hooked up to monitors and IV drips, looking up at the ceiling as he was unable to sleep. Joe took a look at his body, seeing that his wounds were nearly healed, only having a few bruises and burns to get over. He removed his attachments and sat up in his bed, looking out the window and just listening. Donnie was in the neighbouring room, gauze covering his head, cheek and abdominal region, hooked up the heart monitors and the like. Donnie finally opened his eyes, waking up from sleep and to his shock, Doris was sitting in the chair next to his bed.

Donnie: “D?! You shouldn’t be here!”

Doris: “It’s alright, it’s late and no-one saw me come in.”

Donnie: “...You alright?”

Doris: “You’re the one in the hospital bed, Donnie… I’m so sorry.”

Donnie: “This isn’t your fault, D. Puritans did this to me, not you.”

Doris: “Well, you don’t have to worry anymore… I’m going to get them for what they did to you.”

Donnie: “...Doris, you don’t have to do this.”

Doris went silent.

Donnie: “You’ve been fallin’ deeper into the pit. I just don't want you to get stuck there and if you do this, I fear that… you will.”

Doris: “It’s too late for me–.”

Donnie: “No, it’s not–.”

Donnie started coughing, prompting Doris to hold his arm until he stopped.

Donnie: “D, don’t do it. I thought that I was doing the right thing by not stopping you. Who am I to do that, right? You can make your own decision… but all I was doing was encouraging your descent and I’m sorry… I’m sorry for not helping you out of that pit, for not stopping you from falling deeper into it. I’m sorry.”

Doris gently squeezed her brother’s hand.

Doris: “No, no. You’re perfect, you’re the only thing that makes sense in my life. Please, don’t blame yourself.”

Donnie coughed again, this time covering his mouth with his fist.

Doris: “Do–.”

Suddenly, they both heard a nurse calling out; “Mr. Dalton?! Are you alright?!”

Donnie: “Uh, uh! Ye– yea!”

Doris turned to his sister who was already getting up from her seat and told her; “You gotta go.” He grabbed her hand one last time, Doris turned back to face Donnie.

Donnie: “Please… don’t do it.”

Doris: “...I’m sorry.”

Doris got out of the hospital before she was noticed and stepped through the doors, she walked down to the car that was parked further to the front gates where she ran into Joe.

Doris: “You should be healing.”

Joe: “I’m fine. Just a little bruising. I took a bomb to the face before, a grenade isn’t so bad.”

Doris: “You’re trying to stop me?”

Joe: “Why else would I be here? Why do you want to kill him?”

Doris: “Why do you want to save him?”

Joe: “Save him?! I don’t want to save him, I want him to make sure he gets the punishment he deserves!”

Doris: “That’s him dead, Joe. It’s very odd to me that you’re so adamant on just letting him go free.”

Joe: “Go fre–? Doris– alright, let me ask you a question. A man– a terrorist blows up somewhere, maybe he blows up Empire City. He intentionally kills several. Does he deserve to die?”

Doris: “Yes.”

Joe: “Another despicable person goes around, targets and kills a couple people. Does he deserve to die?”

Doris: “Of course.”

Joe: “Last one, a man robs a store and steals some money because he’s dirt poor. Does he deserve to die?”

Doris: “Joe, that’s not the same.”

Joe: “What do you mean? The man killed the cashier and two other people as they were buying groceries. Doesn’t he deserve to die?”

Doris didn’t respond.

Joe: “See, that’s the problem with this worldview. It’s arbitrary. Do you think that the thought of putting these pieces of– these people in the dirt where they belonged doesn’t ever cross my mind?! Of course it does! But I don’t do it and you want to know why? Because if I wanted– if anyone wanted, there doesn’t have to be a line. Anyone could just bend to rules to fit them and kill anyone they decided deserves it because they felt like it! To decide who lives or dies like that… that’s a malicious god and I’m neither.”

Doris: “What about your uncle, didn’t he decide who lived or died?”

Joe: “Don’t you dare ! My uncle had a duty to uphold, to protect this great nation! Just like I have a duty to trust in the law!”

Doris: “The same law that ran you out after they found out who you really were? That law?”

Joe: “...You…”

Doris: “Exactly. Step aside, Joe.”

Joe: “I… I can’t, I can’t let you go down the pit again.”

Doris: “How did you…?”

Joe: “Because I’ve been there, Doris. I know that face, the feeling of isolation– I’m right there but I’m climbing out and I know you can too.”

Doris: “...It’s too late for me.”

Joe: “No, it’s not! It’s not too late for you, Doris!”

Doris: “You don’t know my story, Joe.”

Joe: “You’re right, I don’t… but I want to.”

Doris: “...Get out of my way, Joe.”

Joe stepped closer to Doris and told her in a stern voice; “I’m not moving.” Doris coated her skin in metal in response and Joe sighed.

Joe: “Doris, you don’t want to do this.”

Doris: “Then move.”

Joe shook his head. Doris threw a punch that Joe weaved with his speed and when another came his way, he grabbed it.

Joe: “Doris, stop!”

Doris flexed her fingers and the metal that coated them jutted out like claws.

Joe: “Wow.”

Doris pushed Joe back and began slashing at him with her claws, morphing the metal around her other fingers into claws and began using both hands. However, Joe still managed to evade her attacks. Doris threw a punch out that Joe grabbed, throwing Doris over his arm, only for her to land on her hands and feet.

Joe: “Doris, please .”

Doris: “...I need to do this.”

Joe: “No… you don’t.”

Doris charged at Joe, throwing a punch that Joe leapt back from, however after he landed on his feet, Joe was hit in the eye by reflected light. It obstructed his vision which gave Doris a chance to strike, plunging him into the ground head first with a solid steel punch, shattering the ground on impact.

Doris: “You held back and that’s why you’re on the ground right now… I'm sorry.”

Joe was on the ground; bleeding from his head, nose and mouth, blurred vision and in extreme pain.

Joe: “...Do… ris… He’s milita… tary. He’s danger…”

Doris didn’t answer walking away as her metal coating receded. She got into the car and drove off, eventually arriving at Riverside Park, the landmark of Anytown's third sector. It was a lush green park that was filled with the usual scattering of trees and park benches. Since it was late in the night, the park was quiet, devoid of people. Doris parked the car before the front gates of black steels, jumping over them to enter the park. She walked down the path made of red brick until she arrived at a steep cliffside that overlooked a dried up ravine filled with large jagged rocks. It was at this cliffside where Doris met up with Fang, they were standing by the metal railings that overlooked the ravine.

Doris: “You actually showed your face.”

Fang: “I make due on my promises, even to a foul… I suppose.”

Doris: “Are you really military? That would explain the weaponry your group has access to.”

Fang: “I served ten years. Nice eye, or was it the other foul– the dupe? You know, I should've recognised him. He’s the one from Townsville, isn’t he? Now he’s in the hospital made for us, using our resources and our energy, being touched by our people. Makes me sick .”

Doris coated her skin in dark green metal and in response, Fang pulled out his two pistols.

Doris: “Are you alone, like you promised?”

Fang: “It’s just me and you as far as this duel is concerned.”

Doris: “ Are you alone? ”

Fang: “Do you see anyone else?”

Doris charged at Fang, who immediately started bombeding her with bullets as he strafed to the left. Doris brought out her claws and started swinging at Fang once she got close enough but Fang kept weaving each slash, ducking underneath one of her attacks to then shoot her in the back of the head. The bullet bounced off and Fang watched the bullet spin around in the air when he noticed a metal arm flying towards him. Fang moved his head back and then went into a backflip, landing on his feet where he fired off more bullets. Doris growled and charged in, throwing out two punches that didn’t connect, opting to then throw out an axe kick. Fang gasped as he was unable to evade, the axe kick landing on his right shoulder, making him grunt aloud from the pain. Fang pointed his gun directly at her face and Doris didn’t stop him from firing, taking the shot to the face.

Fang: “Vile! Disgusting, all of you!”

Doris grabbed one of Fang’s pistols and broke it into two with both hands. She then grabbed at Fang himself but he managed to roll away from her reach, firing back with his one gun. Fang ultimately ran out of bullets, throwing away the pistol and taking out a shotgun he had hidden in his trench coat. Doris ran up at Joe, crossing her arms to block incoming shotgun fire, the bombardment pushing her back with each fire. Fang then ran up on Doris, jumping up and leaping off her still crossed arms and shooting her in the back of the head when he was in mid air. Doris tilted forward from the force of the shot but quickly shrugged it off and grabbed Fang by the leg before he touched the ground. Doris then broke his leg and slammed him onto the ground, she then stepped over Fang who turned and cocked his shotgun, ready to fire. Doris quickly grabbed the gun and struck Fang in the face with it, she then bent the shotgun and threw it away. Doris straddled Fang and began beating on Fang, the sound of metal crashing against soft skin filled the night air. As Doris was beating on Fang, flashes of fire and people suffering filled her head. She was back inside the bus and everywhere she turned, the guilt of the people from that one day surrounded her. Each fist against Fang’s face represented themselves as the explosions of the bus she was in and after the fires and smoke, Doris was back in the dark. She was falling deeper into the pit and unfortunately, now the exit seemed so far away and the gap kept widening. Doris closed her eyes, fully accepting her descent and reaching the bottom was only a single fist away. However, when she reeled her fist back her arm froze in mid air. Doris didn’t have time to register what was happening as she was then pulled off her feet and thrusted into the air until she was slammed against something. Doris was in pain but wouldn’t scream and she was trying to fight her way off whatever she was stuck to but couldn’t. She looked to her left and saw Marge Malachi stepping away from a level before running over to Fang, who was staggering to his feet. Fang stepped on his broken leg which made him scream and lose his footing but Marge managed to reach him quick enough and caught him before he fell.

Fang: “Thank you, Marge.”

Marge Malachi: “You look like crap, Fang.”

Fang: “Heh… I’m alright.”

Fang’s face was covered in red; he was missing teeth, his left eye was swollen shut and his head overall had seemed flat, like a pancake. He looked over to see that Doris was stuck to a large machine; the focal point was a large orb.. It was a black ball that was attached to a control panel of bauge that included glowing flips, buttons and levers. The machine was hooked up to the back of a black Chrysler Thunderbolt decorated with hot rod flames on the hood of the modified car.

Fang: “Hm, the magnet came in handy.”

Marge Malachi: “You got your faithful one on one, let’s just kill the foul and be done with it!”

Fang: “Yea… yea, you’re… ri– right. Did you… strap the grenades on?”

Marge Malachi: “Just like you asked.”

Fang stared at his car for a moment, then told Marge; “Run her off… the cliff.”

Marge Malachi: “...Ok. Them, not us.”

Fang forced out a smile, then parroted; “Them... not us.”

Marge helped Fang over to a tree and sat him down next to it, she then ran over to the car, glancing at the struggling Doris one more time before entering it. Doris was trying her hardest to free herself but to no avail, the magnet was strong and coupled with the pain she was in, Doris was going anywhere. Doris heard the loud revving of the car and the wheels skidded against the ground, kicking up grass as it shot off. Marge went straight for the cliffside, jumping out of the carone close enough to the cliff. Marge rolled away, stopping to see the car burst through the railings, taking Doris over the edge. Doris let out a sharp gasp as she felt the pull of gravity dragging her to the bottom. In that moment, Joe regained consciousness, finding himself being brought into the Riverside hospital. He saw two security guards bringing him through the door and sprung out of their arms, getting back on his feet. The security guards were in shock, with one of them pleading; “Wait, hold on! You were bleeding all over the place– well, you were. Let’s get you inside, huh?”

Joe: “I’m fine. I– I gotta go!”

Joe ran off despite the guards’ protests and when he was a safe distance away, Joe kicked into his super speed, becoming a blur that raced through Anytown to his destination. That was Doris, who was watching and the jagged rocks came closer and closer. She closed her eyes, accepting her fate as everything around her was receding back into the dark. Marge Malachi went over to Fang, helping him on his feet when they both felt a sudden rush of wind.

Marge Malachi: “What the?”

Doris still had her eyes closed, still falling into the pit until she felt something grab her. Her eyes opened and before her was Joe, his blonde hair blowing in the wind from the rapid descent.

Joe: “Are you ok?!”

Doris: “I…”

Joe: “It’s alright, I got you!”

Joe used his super strength to pull Doris off the magnet.

Joe: “Phew, wow! I did that!”

Doris was trying to undo her metal coating but it was proving to be difficult.

Doris: “I still… feel it…”

Joe: “Oh! How do I turn it off?”

Doris: “Lev… er.”

Joe: “Lever?! Lever!”

Joe glanced below him, seeing that they were approaching the ground fast so he had to act just as quickly. He looked around the machine, eventually finding the lever and shooting it with his white hot Heat Vision that shot like shooting stars in the night, melting the lever and causing a malfunction. That then led to the magnet shutting down and Doris could finally recede the metal coating from her body, taking a loud gasp from all the pain she was feeling being relinquished. However, they were still falling and coupled with the car, the magnet, the grenades and the jagged rocks below, it wasn’t a guarantee for survival. Doris grabbed onto Joe’s arm and closed her eyes, waiting for an extremely rough landing but inside of a crash and a boom, there was nothing. There was silence. Doris opened his eyes and saw that the ground was still under her, she gasped from the realisation that she was floating. She looked over to Joe, who was also in shock, looking down at his feet with wide eyes. They shared a look, it was silent until Doris asked; “You can fly?” Marge and Fang were walking away, the latter leaning against the former for support.

Fang: “Wait.”

Marge Malachi: “What is it?”

Fang: “I didn’t hear… a boom.”

Marge Malachi: “You’re right.”

They turned around and a moment later, Joe with Doris in his right arm and both the car and large magnet in his left, floating up before them.

Marge Malachi: “Oh… my, oh my god.”

Marge began tearing up. Joe floated down the ground, a safe distance away from the cliffside where he first laid down the car and magnet before escorting Doris gently to the ground. Joe then pulled the grenades off the magnet and disarmed them before crushing them into dust. Joe saw that Doris was looking his way and responded; “My uncle Sam taught me a few things.” The two heard sobs, seeing that Fang had burst into tears.

Fang: “Monsters! Monsters, ready to claim the earth– to wipe us out! Them or us! Them or us!”

Fang and Marge both dropped to her knees, crying into her hands and begging, pleading to the duo as they looked on with a mix of confusion and slight pity.

Marge Malachi: “Please, please ! Please! ”

Joe and Doris began approaching Fang and Marge, prompting the former to curse at them.

Fang: “No, no ! Get away from us, you fouls !”

Doris: “You know, some part of me did fear you. But now…? I only pity you.”

Marge suddenly stood up and pointed a gun at Doris but it was immediately noticeable that her hands were shaky.

Fang: “Do it! Do it! Them, or us!”

Marge Malachi: “Them or…”

Marge was lost in Doris’ turquoise glowing eyes and eventually she dropped the gun, tears still flowing from her eyes.

Marge Malachi: “You understand, don’t you?! There were rules, things made sense before that explosion! Nothing makes sense anymore! Nothing! People become monsters and wipe us out, constantly showing us that nothing can stop them! Nothing at all! We try and try, we manage to fight back everyday… everyday a new freak pops up and claims even more of us! Left and right we drop like flies while your kind slowly takes over! It’s not fair, life used to make sense!”

Marge grabbed either side of head and continued; “It used to make sense !”

Doris: “Your fear really ran that deep.”

Marge Malachi: “Of course it does! And– and if you were still one of us… you’d be scared too.”

Doris: “Maybe.”

Doris then punched Marge in the face, knocking a couple teeth from her mouth and knocking her out on top of that. Fang, tears still wetting his own eyes, watched as his faithful compatriot fell to the ground next to him while he himself was in a catatonic state. His face was drenched in tears but eventually, his eyes glazed over and he then passed out from the stress.

Doris: “...Maybe.”

The sun was rising over the horizon, making both Doris and Joe look back at it as it bathed them in its early morning glow.

Joe: “A new day.”

Doris: “Yea, it is.”

(Anytown, Riverside, Night). With Joe at the wheel, he and Doris were driving up to the Riverside Hospital in the late hours to avoid any instance of pandemonium. At the same time, they were listening to a rebroadcast of earlier news, of newscaster Shaquille Silverstein bringing news about the aftermath of the Puritans.

Dialogue:

Shaquille Silverstein: “After five days, the scourge of the Puritans that have been plaguing Anytown for months on end have finally ended. Members such as Solar and Polar Twain, two students of Milten University, have been charged with multiple counts of murder. The brothers are currently recovering in the Riverside Hospital; the former from head trauma and the latter from having a broken jaw on top of his share of head trauma. They will be incarcerated after a full recovery. Maraga Malachi, another member, was found to have been behind the death of her sister Mel Malachi and is also being charged with multiple counts of murder. The Puritans got away by hiding in plain sight, often working in secret but after a major confession from Marge Malachi, those still in hiding are currently being seized. As for the leader Fang, he is currently in Riverside hospital as well. Although, his condition is more complicated than others with there being reports of him currently being on life support. There is some controversy however, as some people on the outside looking in, are fully empathised and agree with the Purita–.”

Doris turned off the radio as she and Joe pulled into the hospital, parking the car by the front gates.

Joe: “Are you ready?”

Doris: “Yes.”

Donnie was laying down in his hospital bed when he felt a sudden wind burst into his room, making him look into the direction of the door.

Donnie: “D? Joe?”

Doris and Joe had snuck into the hospital via the latter’s speed, avoiding the eyes of security, nurses and doctors alike. Doris sat down in the chair next to Donnie’s bed while Joe was standing behind her.

Donnie: “This shot ruined the trip, huh? Completely wasted .”

Joe: “I feel this was my fault. Sorry for ruining the tradition, Doris. Donnie, sorry for ruining the time you were supposed to have with your sister.”

Donnie: “It’s all good. You came through and took care of the Puritans which also means Milten is down into jackasses.”

Donnie chuckled which unfortunately hurt him, making him grab at his side.

Doris: “Donald.”

Donnie: “Dang, you haven’t called me that in a minute . Makes me wonder if you’re alright.”

Doris went silent.

Donnie: “...Did you fall in?”

Doris: “I did. And I wish I could say that to you or our parents… I wish that I said that I had the strength to pull myself out of it but…”

Donnie placed his hand on Doris.

Donnie: “Whatever happened, I’m just glad you’re here now. Doris, I’m going to be your anchor, alright? I’m going to be the hand that holds you up– the wings that take you up so you won’t fall into the dark pit ever again. Alright?”

A tear fell from Doris’ face but what happened next both made Donnie and Joe speechless and that was Doris breaking down. She began bawling as she rested her head on her brother’s arm, gripping onto it. Donnie placed his hand on Doris’ head, making her look up in response to see that Donnie was tearing up as well but brandishing a smile. Joe watched happily as the Dalton siblings embraced one another.

Doris: “...Thank you…”

Later, the Maserati rolled up to a stoplight, stopping before the line in accordance to its red shine. At the wheel was Doris, the only one actually inside the car. The streets were empty, not a car in sight since it was so late at night. The sound of thunder began resonating throughout the lonely skies then suddenly there was a bump and the car was rattled from an unknown force. However, Doris was unnerved, perfectly still even when the car was shaking from side to side.

Joe: “Sorry, I’ll get the hand of this flying thing eventually.”

Doris answered in her monotone voice; “It’s alright. Did you see Earl?” Joe answered yes as he opened the door and got inside the car, strapping himself in.

Joe: “I just had to let him know what happened. He was a bit surprised about a flying man at his dorm window, though.”

Joe chuckled.

Joe: “But he was quickly receptive.”

Doris: “I see. Are we ready?”

Joe: “Yea, let’s go home.”

The two then drove off. They were driving through Grove Grove on their way out, going past both the $1.02 and $1.03, listening to music on the radio. Joe was tapping the steering wheel to the tune of Shag Carpeting up until the music suddenly stopped, looking over to see that Doris had shut off the radio.

Doris: “I… I wanted to apologise.”

Joe: “For what?”

Doris: “For disgracing your uncle’s name. It wasn’t right… I’m sorry.”

Joe: “You’re forgiven, Doris.”

Doris: “I also wanted to thank you, for saving my life.”

Joe: “Of course, Doris.”

Doris: “...I still don’t think that the world will truly change but I suppose, in some way, we can make it better if we try.”

Joe: “Even if your hope in humanity is small, I’m glad it’s there.”

Joe chuckled.

Joe: “Ya know, I should also thank you as well.”

Doris: “Thank me ?”

Joe: “You were right when you said that I didn’t believe we could change anything after what happened in Townsville. I lost my way but doing this– with you, really put me back on track. And for that, thank you.”

Doris: “I’ll offer my help again if you need it.”

Joe: “Likewise, Doris. For anything, I’ll be there.”

Doris smiled and nodded. Joe was going to turn back on the radio when his hand was obstructed by Doris’.

Joe: “Doris?”

Doris: “I actually know another way to pass the time.”

Joe: “Oh. Hm. Well, I’m all ears.”

Doris smiled and then began to tell Joe her story.

The Story Continues