Title: Beyond the Badge
Summary: Fillmore and Ingrid are now students at Z High School. They work to solve a case concerning the National Safety Patrol Convention and the very integrity of the safety patrol. Along the way, they learn just how deep their bond has grown since their days at X Middle School.
Disclaimer: Fillmore is the creation of Disney. I don't own it. Nuff said.
Author's Note: Read, enjoy, and please review! Reviews that say you like it are nice, but reviews that say why you like it are better. Chapter by chapter reviews that convey the emotions you felt as you read certain parts of the chapter are very helpful too.
I also wanted to include a big Thank You for WondaGal who was my Beta for this story.
Act One: Mark of the Pentagon
The wind ominously howled outside Z High School as five hooded individuals gathered around the pentagon table in the middle of a room. As each one sat down, they picked up the hockey mask in front of their seat, put it on, and removed their hoods. The one who had gathered this group spoke.
"Greetings my comrades, as you can tell each of these masks has a device which will disguise our voices when we speak. Until now I have only communicated with you through letters, but with these masks complete we can start meeting in person to speed up the plan. Each of you has an important part to play, and when we succeed, the entire structure of the safety patrol will be powerless to stop us."
One of the other members of the table interrupted, "so how are we gonna refer to each other. You don't want us to know each other in case one of us gets busted, but we ain't gonna get nowhere fast that way."
"Simple, I will be known as Zero. You shall be known as One. The lady next you shall be Two. The other gentleman next to her will be Three and our primary financier shall be known as Four. Is that simple enough for you?"
"Sounds good sunshine," replied Number One. After a pause, he said, "Although I already know Number Two, how can I trust these others."
Before tensions got too high over the slight, Zero replied, "Because we all share a common goal. Every scheme you have tried eventually went afoul because of the safety patrol. While we will personally enjoy power that would come with the demise of the safety patrol, there is another part of this plan that gives us a second common goal. It is a challenge that we will all relish for our own individual reasons."
"Your letters stated nothing about this second goal," replied Three.
Zero retorted," I figured it would be a pleasant surprise. Something all those around me at this table would enjoy. A little bit of revenge."
"So just get on with it already," said Two.
"When this plan succeeds, this entire school will witness the downfall of Officer Cornelius Fillmore." After Zero said this, all those around him grinned mischievously behind their hockey masks. Zero lifted up a bottle of soda as his said, "to the rise of our power and the downfall of Cornelius Fillmore." The others raised their bottles and joined Zero in toasting to their upcoming plan.
It was the first day of the new school year as Fillmore strolled into the Safety Patrol Headquarters at Z High School. After he had hung up his leather coat, he walked to his desk at the back of the room. He saw a smirk on Ingrid's face as he sat down at his desk. "First day back and you're already got one of those looks. What's up?"
"Remember last year when Principal Malick and Vice Principal Probst announced that they were retiring?" Ingrid replied.
"Yeah, Superintendent Gimple is going to introduce the new Principal and Vice Principal today," Fillmore responded.
"Well, I saw some faces in the hallway and have a hunch as to who are going to be introduced."
Before Fillmore could reply, Vallejo shouted from the entrance to the Safety Patrol Headquarters, "Fillmore. Third. Let's move, the assembly starts in five minutes."
School Superintendent Gimple walked up to the microphone and addressed the assembly. "Student and faculty, as you known after many years of service Principal Malick and Vice Principal Probst retired. After a thorough search, we have found two very qualified candidates to lead Z High School for many years to come. Without further ado, I present to you Principal Folsom and Vice Principal Raycliff."
Principal Folsom walked up to the podium and started to give her inauguration address, saying, "Some of you know me from going to X Middle School…"
As Folsom spoke, at the Safety Patrol Watch Station Fillmore looked over at his partner and said, "Well this year just got more interesting."
Ingrid replied, "You sound so thrilled Fillmore. Looking forward to having constant pressure on every major case again?"
After chuckling Fillmore replied, "What's that saying? The more things change the more they stay the same."
"Yeah, it's something like that," responded Ingrid.
A Week Later
"You ready Frank?"
"Ready when you are Vallejo. The comic book counterfeit ring has their hideout in Art Studio F. Hard to believe three guys could have flooded the comic book market this much."
"Well either way it ends now. I've got the warrant from student council so let's do this," Vallejo responded. Frank Bishop and Horatio Vallejo headed down the hallway until they reached Studio F. Vallejo quickly opened the door. In the middle of the room were Biggie Shotwell, and two artists Cyrus and Josh. Cyrus and Josh were copying a comic book and Biggie was packing completed forgeries into a box. "Your comic book ring is toast," Vallejo said. He added, "I like you three to come with us." While Biggie submitted due to not wanting to run, Cyrus and Josh started to run to the back of the room. Frank gave chase and quickly caught Josh, but Cyrus was able to climb out the back window.
Frank pulled his walkie-talkie, "Frank Bishop to any safety patrollers near Art Studio F. We have a fugitive, Cyrus Grant on the run; requesting back-up."
Anza answered, "You can cancel that request Frank. Turns out O'Farrell tripped into your fugitive about five feet from the Studio's window. Tehama and I were on our way because Danny said he needed help with something and saw it happen."
Tehama chimed in on her talkie, "And judging by how Mr. Cyrus Grant is stuck to O'Farrell, I'd say Danny had some issues with the super glue."
Vallejo rolled his eyes before saying, "We will just meet you all back at the north office."
By the time Vallejo and Frank had gotten back to the office, O'Farrell was at his desk and Cyrus was in the holding room. Frank asked, "How did you get him unstuck so fast?"
Chiming in from the back of the room, Ingrid said, "previous experience. My dad got stuck to a classroom skeleton during one of his head cold episodes. Ariella and I did some experimenting to get Dad loose. I just happened to remember the formula of the substance we made. It was a piece of cake."
"Unfortunately there's some bad news," Fillmore added from beside Ingrid.
"Hold on a second," said Vallejo before taking Biggie and Josh into the holding room. Coming back out, he asked," Okay, what is it?"
"This," said Fillmore as he tossed a card onto Vallejo's desk. The card was a business card, but it only had a black pentagon stamped in the center. Fillmore continued, "It looks like this group is another one that is connected to this pentagon card. We haven't this much trouble identifying someone since Stingray back when we were at X Middle School. Even Frank has been unable to come up with anything and he's the best profiler we have on the force."
Frank added, "if only we could flush out whatever person or people are behind the organization of this pentagon group, I might get something to work with. I've only gotten stuff on all the lackeys we've been pulling in. Nothing on the big fish though."
"Yeah unfortunately, these cards are made from basic business card packets that you can buy at any office supply store and the pentagon is just a generic stamp being used with a black ink pad," explained Tehama.
Vallejo rubbed the back of his neck for a few moments. Breaking the heavy silence was Anza, "well for now all we can do is keep breaking up all these rings that are popping up around Z High."
Frank added, "Anza's right. Besides Vallejo needs to get ready for the interview he has in an hour."
"That's right Vallejo, you got nominated for one of the spots in the three commissioner system Folsom wants to use for the safety patrol," said Tehama.
"Only one of the two assistant commissioner spots, although I hear guy up for the head honcho spot is one of the new transfers. He was the commissioner for his safety patrol when he was in Elementary and Middle School. He was also the commissioner at his last high school," Vallejo responded.
"Well good luck Vallejo," Frank said joyously. "I'll just go from a regular beat back to profiler specialist."
"We might just need that kind of specialized focus for this pentagon group," Vallejo responded. As Vallejo started to head out of the office, he turned around and said, "O and Fillmore. If I get this post, try to keep the repair bills down. I've enjoyed working with Frank again and not having to worry about all the headaches you make. It would be good for my ears with Folsom being principal now."
"Can't make any promises Vallejo," replied Fillmore as he chuckled with a big grin on his face.
Ingrid added, "Besides your lungs have had what, about a three year break from screaming Fillmore's name. They should be plenty rested for your upcoming term."
"Thanks Third, I think," replied Vallejo. With that, he went out the door and headed to his interview.
Early the next morning, Fillmore walked into the safety patrol office and saw Ingrid reading the Z High School Dispatch at her desk. "See anything interesting Ingrid?" Fillmore asked as he filled his hot chocolate mug.
After he walked over and sat in his desk, Ingrid replied, "You remember the National Safety Patrol Convention that is happening in two months?"
"Yeah, it was going to be hosted by a high school out in Idaho I think. About a month ago, the safety patrol there took down a tater tots smuggling ring, but destroyed the convention center during the bust."
"Apparently after Folsom was named Z High School Principal, she put in a last minute bid to host the convention since it had to be moved."
"So, you're telling me the convention is going to be held here?"
"Hmmm," Ingrid replied with a smirk as she nodded her head.
Before Fillmore could respond, his phone rang. "Fillmore." Ingrid saw Fillmore's face harden from whatever the person was saying to him on the phone. Fillmore said to the person on the phone, "Where do you want to meet?"…"I'll be there in five minutes." He hung up the phone and got up from his desk, "Ingrid, we got one."
Ingrid followed Fillmore out the door. They made their way through the halls and went outside towards the bocce ball field. As they got close to the stadium wall, Ingrid saw a familiar figure. Fillmore was the first to speak, "So Augie, what information do you have for me?"
Augie whispered back, "Remember you didn't hear this from me, but you know that group that's been using the pentagon cards?"
Ingrid replied, "We know the cards, but the safety patrol hasn't been able to find out anything about who the ringleaders are. Do you have any leads on that?"
"No," Augie replied, "but I heard some guys talking. Scooter McAllister, Colby Bosworth, and Ken Himmelman have been contacted about getting some preliminary work for a big job."
"What's the job Augie?" Fillmore asked.
"It deals with the National Safety Patrol Convention that is going to be held here in two months. A couple of days before the convention starts, some safety patrollers are bringing a new computer program that will match up safety patrollers based on their strengths and weaknesses to make better teams. Even inter-school cases would use the system because it would have every safety patroller in the nation in it. Apparently they are going to steal the program so they would know every safety patrollers strengths and weaknesses." As Augie finished, he nervously looked around to see if anyone saw him talking to Ingrid and Fillmore.
"Thanks Augie, I owe you one big time," Fillmore said before he and Ingrid started to walk back to the office.
As they walked back, Ingrid spoke first, "I haven't even heard of this new safety patrol matching system. If it's true, then how did this pentagon group get it?"
"I'm not sure. I do know since Augie saved my tail with the Folsom macaroni statue hearing, he sorta went straight. He'll do odd jobs if the job itself is legit, even if it's part of a bigger scheme that isn't. He won't ever give information on small jobs, but he's always helped me out with big cases. His information has always been good, so I'm not going to start doubting him now."
At this point, the pair was starting to approach some crowds. They both glanced at each other and understood without a word that they would continue this conversation back at the office.
As the approached the office, they heard the Glee Club singing on the other side of the door. "For he's a jolly good fellow, for he's a jolly good fellow, for he's a jolly good fellow…that nobody can deny." Walking into the office, Fillmore and Ingrid saw Frank, O'Farrell, Anza and Tehama gathered around Vallejo.
"Congratulations Vallejo," Fillmore and Third said at the same time.
Vallejo blinked and asked, "How did you two guess? Frank said he hadn't been able to get a hold of you two for my morning's surprise."
Fillmore just said, "That's why we're the best detective patrollers on the force."
"Now if only you damage bills were as small as the food you leave behind during an eating contest, my life as assistant commissioner will be nice and peaceful," Vallejo replied. The room just laughed as Fillmore shrugged in response to the playful jab.
Ingrid asked, "So who got the other two commissioner spots?"
Vallejo answered, "Andy Walnut, a former commissioner at Jacoby Middle School, got the other assistant commissioner spot. The recent transfer from out of state, Floyd Mitchell, got the head commissioner post. Fortunately I was allowed to have all of you guys under me."
"They gave it to you since you're used to working with us?" asked Frank.
Vallejo's commissioner face dropped and his friend faced came across his face. "I do have a great track record working with you guys. But, while that's mostly true, it isn't the only reason. Fillmore, Third, I need to warn you now. Walnut's rep from Jacoby is that he doesn't care for anyone with a rap sheet. It doesn't matter how short or if they've turned over a new leaf or not. From the commissioner's meeting this morning, I think the head commissioner shares the same perspective. Third should be fine since none of it stuck to her permanent record with her being so smart…I need you to try to keep yourself in check Fillmore. I got your back, but don't go giving them a lot to hammer you with, please. You two are the best; I have no doubt about that. The last thing we need is someone pressuring to get you off the force."
The solemnity that filled the room made it difficult for anyone to immediately speak. Ingrid and Fillmore just nodded to indicate they understood where Vallejo was coming from. To change subjects Ingrid asked, "Vallejo, in the commissioner's meeting, did they mention anything about a new partner matching computer program for safety patrollers?"
Vallejo raised an eyebrow as he said, "Yes, Project Trust. How did you know about it? The only ones in the meeting who knew beforehand were Folsom and Mitchell since he was a commissioner at the High School he transferred from."
Fillmore replied, "Let's talk this over in your office."
Vallejo nodded. Before Vallejo, Fillmore, and Ingrid went into the assistant commissioner's office, Vallejo said, "Everyone, what was just said doesn't leave this office until I say so, understand?"
"You got it chief," replied Tehama as Anza, O'Farrell, and Frank nodded.
Ingrid and Fillmore were walking away from the school after the commissioner introduction social for the after school shifts. "Vallejo was right, those other two commissioners seem like they don't trust you at all," said Ingrid.
"My rap sheet is what it is. That's all I'll ever be to some people. I came to terms with that a long time ago."
"But all those offenses were a long time ago too. It's stupid of them to think all of your success as a safety patroller was due to being Wayne's partner and then mine. You're the common factor."
"Don't sell yourself short now; you are the smartest kid in school."
Ingrid almost blushed as she replied, "That's school stuff. You come up with more angles on our cases than I do." She added sarcastically, "Besides, I think your buddy Parnassus has better grades than I do since we got into high school."
Cornelius chuckled and replied, "If he does, it's because you're slacking. Although he's been a pain in my side since he got elected to student council, at least Peabody trusts me now."
"Yeah it only took the term paper case for that to happen. It's the politics of it though. Vallejo's great at taking on that part for the force so we can do our jobs."
"Yeah, I do appreciate that. It won't be easy with Parnassus as a student representative, the other two commissioners, and Theldin Lumbar as Student Council President."
"I can't believe Theldin would hold a grudge against you for clearing Eric Orben's name. I guess you just never know with some people," Ingrid replied. She continued, "Of course, I could deal without the head commissioner trying to flirt with me. "
Fillmore couldn't help but tease her. "What? You'd rather have Checkmatey flirting with you."
Ingrid shuddered then replied, "Do I just have bad luck attracting weirdoes and obnoxious guys?"
"Probably, just look at who your partner is," Fillmore replied as he put on a goofy face.
Ingrid couldn't help but smile at Fillmore. "I guess I can't argue with that."
The two safety patrollers had arrived at Ingrid's house. They said their goodbyes to each other as Ingrid went into her home. Fillmore walked the rest of the way to his house a few blocks down the street. He went inside and started on his homework.
"Cornelius," called Fillmore's mom from the living room.
"Coming," Cornelius replied. He went down the steps and saw his dad and mom on the living room couch. "What's up?"
Kern Fillmore spoke first, "Last month at work I entered a raffle for a month long get-away in the Bahamas. Today I won the drawing."
Joelle Fillmore continued, "The cruise is for two people. Your father and I will be leaving in about a month and a half. While we're gone, we are going to have you stay at a friend's house."
Cornelius raised an eyebrow, but before he could speak his dad spoke, "I've talked with Professor Third and he agreed to have you stay with them while we're out of town. We'll leave you keys so you can get into the house if you need something and to check the mail too. Just make sure you don't eat them out of house and home okay?"
Cornelius chuckled then replied, "Can't make any promises on eating, but I'll do my best."
O'Farrell, Tehama, Anza, Frank Bishop, Fillmore, and Ingrid were all in Vallejo's office the next morning. The door opened and Vallejo walked in and sat down at his desk. "Okay people, I called all of you in hear for a special briefing. Our head commissioner got a typed letter. It was an open declaration of the intention to end the existence of the safety patrol."
"Who was it from?" asked Frank.
"There were no signatures. Just the words 'the Pentagon' followed by the pentagon mark we've seen on those business cards lately. Mitchell showed us the letter at an emergency commissioner's meeting this morning. I brought up the information Fillmore and Third got yesterday about the National Safety Patrol Convention. I was then given charge of the Pentagon Case."
"So what do you need from us chief?" asked Tehama.
"Fillmore and Third, as of now you two are off your beat. Your sole focus is the Pentagon case file." Fillmore and Ingrid nodded in reply. Vallejo continued, "Tehama and Anza, you two are on back-up. We have to keep the information about the convention quiet, so Third and Fillmore can't just call for back-up over the walkie-talkies. Otherwise, you two have your regular duties." Anza and Tehama looked at each other and nodded. Vallejo addressed Danny and Frank, "You two are to continue as usual, but keep your eyes and ears open." Vallejo finished by saying, "Alright, everyone has their assignments. Keep me posted." With the briefing finished, everyone but Vallejo left the office and went to their desks.
As Ingrid and Fillmore sat down at their desks, Fillmore spoke, "So we know what the Pentagon is after. Other than that, we have no solid leads."
Ingrid replied, "Well, can start by putting out feelers for information about the Pentagon. While we can't mention the convention, we've busted enough people with connections to treat this similar to when we took down Stingray back at X."
"Great idea, I think I know some people around school who can be extra ears and eyes for us," Fillmore replied as he got up out of his chair.
"Who do you have in mind?" Ingrid asked as she followed Fillmore into the hallway.
"For starters, I think should head on over to metal shop. Wheels, Howie, Junior, and Tin Can might give us some clues. Stingray probably contacted those guys using similar means to how the Pentagon contacts people."
"I'm sure they'll be happy to see you again Kocheese," Ingrid replied with a smirk.
Fillmore sarcastically replied, "I think you need to dye you hair pink though Fingers. They might not recognize you with black hair."
"Good evening everyone," said Zero from his seat at the pentagon table. "I've called you all here to give you an update. In about a month, the plans to steal Project Trust will be complete. Furthermore, Officer Cornelius Fillmore has been assigned to the case. Eventually he will get in our way, but when he does that is when we put into motion our counterplans. For now, those of you in less visible roles around school need to keep a low profile. In one month, all of our hard work will achieve us an ultimate victory."
With ominous smiles behind their hockey masks, the Pentagon members got up from their seats and went for their customized exits. Each one looking forward to the roles they would play one month from now.
