WAH! Ok... I am truly, truly, TRULY sorry for the long wait. See, I was supposed to update this after I updated my other story- but I am a bit stuck on my poor KND fic so I've just worked on this instead.
And I have been busy- I recently got a full time job (gah) and enrolled in university (double gah) and I went overseas (yee) and am planning on moving there soon (woo) which makes my life very, very complicated right about now...
So yes, apart from my life in a soap opera- I've been trying to get this out for months now but there's just been so much drama. I'm truly sorry- I hope this chapter makes up for it. I've been working hard on it but still can't get my head around my writing!
I'd also like to point out that I am watching State of Origin right now as I update this- THAT is dedication right there, as any true Aussie will confirm. ;)
Can't tell you how many HAPPY DANCES I DID once I saw everyone liked the first chapter :D The support for the first chapter was overwhelming! WOW THANK YOU SO MUCH! I hope this chapter is just as good- if not better :) if this story hadn't gotten so much support it wouldn't be here- so give yourselves a pat on the back from me :D
I know I left you guys hanging for a long time, so I added some extra scenes in here just for you ^.^ my gorgeous readers! MWA!
...
I am
Out on my own
Moving in shadow
Nobody knows who I am
...
-Killing Heidi 'I Am'
Buttercup
.
I probably got about three hours sleep before an incessant tapping on my forehead caused me to jolt awake, and I opened my eyes to see a pair of deep emerald orbs gazing down at me- and a knowing smirk glinting in the early morning sun.
"Good Morning, Honey." I managed to grumble at her before rolling over, burying my face into the blissful softness of my thin pillow. It's hard to lie comfortably when you're sleeping in a tent- but after a couple of years, you find comfort in anything. "What time is it?"
My five year old crawled towards me, her deep dark eyes surveying me closely. Somehow she managed to wriggle under my arms into a tight hug- not that I would ever complain. I shifted my face so I could nuzzle into her black hair- already tied into a neat black braid down her back.
"Almost seven." From her cheeky voice I could tell she's still smirking at me. "Time to get up. Aunt Cass says so."
I scoffed at that, playfully pushing her away. "She didn't say that."
I heard her give a playful snicker and she slipped out of my grip, gliding upwards to hover above me. At five, she'd already mastered it. She loves to train...just like me.
"C'monnnn..." She grinned at me, and I peeled my eyes open to see those big dark green eyes widening pathetically. I had to return her smile, rolling onto my back to stare up into my daughter's gorgeous face.
She looks like her Dad.
It's plain to see, and it killed me when I first saw that- the spark the green Ruff once had now existed in her. There's no denying Butch is her father- those dark green eyes, hers even glistened maliciously like his used to do- right before he'd shove me into a building. But they were innocent- she has the most brilliant deep thoughtful, caring gaze. I've already seen me in her- I've seen her eyes narrow with determination, fill with scared tears...she is me as much as she is Butch.
She has the Utonium face too- the button nose, the long flowing hair (she keeps it tied back like I do) the stubborn nature, the fierce personality, but the empathy, the care...the good. But the cheeky side too. My little girl is more than mischievous- she's a vixen, a miniature me. She reminds me of Blayze every day- which really just makes me miss him more, but just further centres my focus at getting my baby boy back. My little reminder, every day I wake up hoping to see the two together one day- where my little girl can finally meet Blayze, her aunts and cousins and we can be a family again.
My heart ached for seeing that, all of us together again, with Bubbles and Bloss too...
I watched her hover above me playfully, eager to go out and train for the day. She bobbed up and down impatiently, blinking and pouting at me to get up. That bottom lip stuck out pointedly, aimed straight at me, her crystal green eyes glistening expectantly.
"Emerald." I snickered at her. "Give it a rest, I'm getting up."
She gave a tiny 'whoop!' and flew out of the tent flap- probably to do a few over-excited somersaults in the air. That girl has way too much energy. It makes her in great shape for the moves I ask of her, but I should have known better than to teach her too many fighting techniques so early. She's all too-keen to kick some butt. Sometimes a little too keen- she gets restless. Looking back with my sisters and I, I couldn't imagine what I would have done if I didn't have the villains of Townsville to take my fighting energy out on.
Emerald. Of course as soon as I saw those eyes I couldn't get them out of my head. Sure, they reminded me of his- but they weren't deep, dark and cruel- they were sparkling with laughter and cheekiness...like miniature gems.
The pain was unbelievable, and I doubled over at the force of it. Even with Blayze I never felt so much agony- my muscles were contracting so hard it felt I was about to split into two. I finally leaned against a nearby tree, my eyes squeezing shut as I gently lowered to the dirt.
"Buttercup..." Cass squeaked at me, dropping to her knees to stare into my eyes. Her hand clenched at my arm. "We have to get you to a hospital, the baby's coming..."
"No." I snarled at her firmly. We'd barely been on the run for three months, but already demons were popping up everywhere- guaranteed I'll get a fair few in the hospital. I was not about to take that risk. I clenched at my stomach, gritting my teeth furiously. "It's fine. She'll be born here. She's okay."
"But-" Cass only twisted her lips as her eyes locked with my furious, determined face. My heart was beating so hard I thought I was close to throwing it up, and I had to chew the inside of my mouth to a pulp to cope with the pain, but my baby was being born here. In the grass, among the trees, I didn't care.
"We'll be okay."
We'll get through. We will make it. We always will.
Cass laid out her things and I wasted no time helping her. Even in labour I pulled my own wait- it was just Cass and I... with the baby soon to join. My heart leapt with excitement, but my chest tightened again with pain and fear.
Last time I had Butch with me, and I didn't miss the petrified look locked in Cass' pale face.
"Okay..." She whispered, shaking as she propped me up, her dark eyes flashing with determination. "Let's do this."
I nodded, trying to breathe through the intense pain clawing at my insides as I leaned back. It was overwhelming, and all I could do was grip at the blanket beneath me as Cass gripped my hand, guiding me through it as she constantly checked me. Not only did I feel completely naked and my body was contorting painfully, thoughts wormed into my head that my little girl wasn't going to make it- maybe a demon will come by, we would fail, this would all just be a huge mistake...
"Ugh!" I couldn't help but groan helplessly as a huge contraction came, and I look up helplessly into the sky stretched above me as I took it all in.
A parent. I was going to be a mom again. I thought of Blayze, his pudgy smile, wide, apple green eyes, wild black hair...how much I wished I could hold him again...
"Oh my God..." I gripped onto Cass, positive I was breaking fingers. A wet cloth ran across my forehead and all I could do was push, thinking of my sisters and Blayze and my babies and how we'd be together again. Not Butch. Don't think of Butch...
I gripped onto those thoughts and held them close, gripping Cass and biting through the pain. My thoughts were racing my stomach was churning and I prayed for this all to be over soon.
I tasted blood, my body was numb and I was damp with sweat, but I could feel her coming- and that thought alone pushed every other worry away. I was seeing black spots in front of my eyes with the amount of pain that was ebbing through me, it was so unbearable and unforgiving.
But I held on, I gripped the ground, determined to stay. With one final, heaving push I heard my daughter's first screams. She was already a defiant fighter, determined until the end. And the second she opened her eyes to mine, I knew she always will be. She shone just like her eyes.
Just like Emeralds.
My little gem. Emmy.
I kicked off my blankets and groaned as my back rolled against the rough floor of the tent. It took some getting used to, living like we were camping every day, but it was the only way I could sleep soundly at night knowing we were untraceable. Demons stuck to dense populations, hardly ever heading for woodland. Cass and Emmy didn't seem to mind our restless lifestyle with setting up camp in a different terrain every week, and Cass was a terrific minder to my girl and Emmy loved giant areas where she was free to roam and train.
"Come ooooon!" I heard my five year old whine at me from outside the tent.
She's always keen to train.
I finally got out of 'bed' and slipped on my favourite combat boots, stomping them on while exiting the tent. I could immediately hear Cass snicker, and looked over to see her clicking a lighter over a pile of sticks, frypan full of food at the ready.
"Morning, Honey." She cooed at me, winking. "Did you sleep well?"
I rolled my eyes at her. She loved playing the 'housewife' role- somehow she managed to make our tense fugitive hunter status amusing. Emerald grew up knowing Cass and I as a pair, travelling all over the country just finding a good place to hide, training for a few days, hunting the few demons that got in our way, packing up and setting off again.
I could only poke my tongue out at my best friend as I flattened my unruly bed-hair, tying it up before settling down next to her. Cass pushed her own hair out of her eyes, suppressing a yawn.
Cass had changed from the rebellious girl I knew in high school- I guess both of us have in that regard. Her natural brown hair was tied up in a messy bun, she was rugged up in warm clothes and she'd become my partner in crime once again. I don't know what I'd do without her- she looked after Emmy when I was gone, she cooked, helped me pack and travel, scoped out plans for us and looked out for demons and helped me study different ways of hunting them. I can remember a few times she was responsible for saving my hide.
Which she just loves to remind me of...
Admittedly, and even Cass admits this, she would probably be dead without me too. Townsville was completely under demon control, as was most of the country. Anyone that dared to get in their way ended up dead or enslaved. Even businesses had to hand over a large chunk of profit over to demon families. Humans were nothing more than cattle, and thankfully Cass ensured her own family was safe before running off to join me on my journey, but staying undercover the way we did was the way of survival- the only way we escaped demon attention.
They still have no idea I'm alive.
"Hush, you." I snickered back to her, nudging as I sat down beside her, watching the way the embers flickered around the sizzling pan. I poked the bacon, trying to be helpful. Emerald flew around us- as hyperactive as usual.
"Moooommyyyy..." She cooed to me, halting mid-air and gazing at both of us through wide, glimmering eyes. "When are we gonna train? You promised we'd train!"
"I know..." I groaned to her, but couldn't resist a smirk. "Can I eat first, please?"
She rolled her eyes, looking bored at trivial pleasures such as eating when she could be running around practicing her moves. I smirked, picking up a worn looking football by the campfire. I found it not that long ago and it came in handy. As soon as her dark green eyes found it she zoomed as far away as she could- disappearing in the blink of an eye- before I threw it as hard as I could, the tiny ball disappearing into a minuscule dot against the bright morning sky. She flew after it, catching it midair before flying back again, her smile only brighter as she held the ball in her hands.
"You're getting good at that, Missy." Cass beamed at her before turning to me. "You should see how miserable I throw."
I chuckled, snatching the ball again and throwing it once more- the ball disappearing along with my daughter. It was thankful we were in the middle of a national park and somewhat far from any civilisation- otherwise her 'playing' would attract unwanted attention.
Even in a demon-infested world, it wasn't a normal sight for a five year old girl to be flying through the air.
"How was last night?" Cass asked me, grabbing some plates. I twisted my lips, flashing back to my night at the club. A few kills, sure. But Jayden's words still echoed through my mind. We weren't that far from my hometown- and I still felt I had a long way to go.
Emerald suddenly hovered next to me, panting slightly but holding the ball expectantly in her hands. I waved her off as I took the ball.
"Go long!" I yelled, before flinging it as far as I could. She took off again, her giggles echoing through the trees as she raced to catch it. I turned back to Cass, my teeth scraping against my bottom lip. She could tell I was hesitant.
"It was fine." I assured her. "But... I ran into Jayden."
"Jayden?" Her mouth fell open at the old name, her head tilting curiously. "Wh...why is he here? He didn't recognise you?" I notice her stiffen, her face paling. "Did he?"
"He did..." I mumbled carefully. "But, it's okay. He's running with demons now, but he's up to his old tricks. He has no idea where I am, or anything..." I frowned at the words, my voice warbling with insecurity . Nobody should trust Jayden, but that wasn't the issue.
"It just...brought up some memories, that's all." I mumbled. I couldn't help my voice trailing off. Cass handed me a plate of food, her face filled with understanding.
"Blayze?"
I just nod. The last time I saw Jayden was when I was pregnant, back in the city of Townsville... I couldn't get his words out of my head, what he'd told me. My teeth gritted in frustration.
It's not just about my baby, even though that sole thought keeps me up at nights. Jayden was from an era in my life where I was just a kid, a teenager still accustomed to throwing bad guys through skyscrapers, saving the city on a daily basis. The unstoppable, headstrong Green Puff- the one nobody messed with, the one they all feared, the secret weapon, the fighter...
Nothing would stand it my way back then. I hung with Jayden like I did all my friends- he was rebellious, mischievous and a little maniacal, but he was my mate. We were all like that at one stage. Young, carefree, bulletproof.
I guess Jayden was still that person- still unstoppable in his own way. He was a survivor, I had to say. He still held that spirit, ready to face the world with a middle finger. I guess... I was too.
So why wasn't I out there like he was? What do I have to fear that he doesn't?
"He got me thinking." I blurted out, unable to hold it back anymore. Cass stood up straighter, eyes wide as she hung onto every word. I bit my lip, feeling as though I was leading her to a death sentence.
"I think we should start heading back to Townsville."
.
Butch
.
I can barely keep my eyes open, let alone concentrate on the beautiful, steaming mug of coffee in front of me- but already I can tell it's going to be a crappy day. Brick's already in my ear about a new threat that's apparently got all the higher levels concerned, Brat already whined at me so much that I sent her packing before I even left bed, and I can hear thumps and crashes floors above me where surely Blayze has woken up in a similar mood to me- completely lethal.
Brick rolled his eyes up to the ceiling too- his eyebrows soon following. He was sitting across from me with an identical cup of coffee, and despite my kid being in a foul mood I was grateful Blayze's destruction of the upper floor had interrupted my older brother's droning.
"Really?" He scoffed at me, taking a break in his lecture to give me a smirk. "This early?"
I drained my coffee in one gulp, giving him my own dangerous look from the kitchen table. It's a pretty big, sturdy hard wood structure that sits in the middle of the kitchen, and has been a base for a lot of discussions-slash-arguments in the past years.
"He waited up for me last night. I put him in his own bed."
He swore under his breath, still giving me that cocky snicker he's become known for. "You're in trouble. You playing the bad guy today, huh?"
Oh, he's pushing it.
"Shutup..." I growled, swallowing the rest of the dregs in my cup before slamming it back down. "He's just being a brat."
"Speaking of..." Brick trailed off, his eyebrows rising again suggestively... "I could see she was over here last night." Man I wanna smack that smirk off his face "How'd that go?"
"How do you think it went?" I spat back, narrowing my eyes at him. Trust him to encourage her over... "Clearly you didn't see her leave."
Brick rolled his eyes again, looking ready for another lecture. He always thinks I should hurry up and find another partner. Of course he'd find the worst candidate.
"Anyway..." He gave in and changed the subject, seeing that I was about to strangle him. "Boomer thinks we should be serious about this new hunter. More hunters are coming out, and they're learning how to do some serious-"
A crash was heard above, followed by a telltale thump, which even made him wince. I grabbed for another coffee.
"-Damage..." He finished off. He turned to me with that same troubled frown. "You sure he's ok?"
"Relax." I shrugged, ignoring the deafening noises above. "How many hunters have we faced off with before? Nobody knows about this stuff- and even if they did it can't defeat us. I dunno why he's so bothered."
Another bang sounded, followed by a thud, and- for a good measure- another crash, with what sounded like glass sprinkling to the floor above. Brick only raised his eyebrows at me, his crimson eyes giving me that familiar stern look.
"He'll be fine." I dismissed quickly, gulping down the hot liquid in front of me. I licked at my lips, anxious for caffeine. "He's just moody."
"Yeah well, you might wanna talk to him..." He muttered, and that made me tense up. Brick's never hesitant- my older brother never holds back on anything- so why all of a sudden does he look so awkward? I narrowed my eyes. If it's about Blayze, it can't be good.
"About what?" I growled out, threat evident. He shrugged, glancing at the floor before switching back to me.
"He's been asking..." He mumbled. "About...Buttercup."
I held back a yelp as the coffee I was holding suddenly splattered over my hand, scalding my skin briefly before sizzling- my demon blood softened the blow after the initial bite of pain. I didn't take my eyes off him- I merely gritted my teeth, holding back from snapping his neck.
My heart was suddenly beating very fast and very hard—so much that I felt it in my mouth. I gripped at anything I could- not even noticing when the cup I was holding began crumpling to dust in my fingers, tinkling to the tabletop.
"What." I snarled, very carefully and slowly. "Did you tell him?"
"He didn't mention her personally." He hissed at me very fast, as if worried someone would hear. "He's just been...ya know, asking about his Mum-"
My heart pounded very hard at that.
"Why?"
"I don't know, he just...he doesn't know why he doesn't have one!" Brick muttered to me, now looking very uncomfortable. There was another thump and a crash above us, but we paid no attention. "Look, he's just curious, ok? He's six."
I swore under my breath, suddenly feeling very tense. Ok, I can't say I'm that surprised- I mean, Blayze is a smart kid, he's got his own thoughts and ideas forming in that head of his. I can tell. It should be considered normal he'd ask about her eventually.
I kicked at the table, which jolted dangerously.
I just didn't think it would hit so hard when he actually did.
Brick watched me with a somewhat sympathetic expression, but really didn't get a chance to blurt out whatever he opened his mouth for because, a second later, we both jumped at a familiar wail sounding somewhere above us. Only a few more moments and a bright streak of crimson light announced my nephew's arrival, tears streaming down his face as he zoomed into the kitchen and launched at his father. Brick fell back in alarm, his son hanging off his neck.
"DAAAAADYYYY!" Bruiser screamed, as loud as his four-year-old lungs would allow. "BLAYZE HIT ME!"
I had to smirk at that. Brick's glare turned to me, now hateful as Bruiser sobbed into his shoulder.
Bruiser is a cute kid, I'll give him that. There's no mistaking that he's a splitting image of Brick, and we knew that the day he was born. Brick swaggered around months afterwards, so proud that a miniature version of himself had finally graced the world. He had the same wild auburn hair that hung into his face, the same freckled face and the very same dark blood red eyes- mirrors themselves of Brick's and Bane's. I knew the moment I saw him- held in Blossom's arms- that he was going to be a bossy, cocky, stubborn leader just like his old man, and ours.
...But for now, he's a typical four year old. Blossom even combs his hair in the mornings, and Bruiser actually sat still to let her. He wasn't quite a Ruff just yet...more of a sook. Just a kid.
And Brick hates it.
"Bruiser." Brick grumbled at him, grabbing a handful of his son's shirt and hanging him from it. He held him out at arms length, and Bruiser looked alarmed. He looked like a puppy being held by the scruff of his neck, and I stifled a smirk while Brick glared at him. "Don't whine at me. Stop crying."
"Buh-" Bruiser's eyes widened even further, and his bottom lip trembled as more tears threatened to give way. He looked miserable- his pale face all blotchy and his hair tousled probably from Blayze roughing him up. His hands curled into stubborn fists, and he began to squirm in Brick's grip. "B-BUT BL-BLAYZE HIT M-ME! M-MAKE HIM S-STOP!"
Brick rolled his eyes towards me, as if daring me to say anything. I just took another gulp of coffee. I could tell just by looking at him I knew what he was thinking.
Bruiser's birthday is in a few weeks, he'll be five. The same age we were when we began fighting off the Puffs and trying to take over Townsville. When Blayze turned five we started training him the same way- gave him drills, moves to learn, started toughening him up in case we get attacked. He started getting stronger, flying faster, hitting harder, his demonic powers began to show...
The way Bruiser's heading, all three of us know he won't be ready for it. It causes so many fights- at least twice a week I'm forced to take Bruiser while Brick and Blossom fight about it. He is constantly complaining about how soft he is.
"Calm down!" Brick hissed at my nephew, pulling him closer to snap into his face. He lowered his voice into leader mode. "Settle down, Bruiser."
But with one look from those darkening eyes Bruiser only whined more, kicking and shaking to get free. He even cuddled his balled fists into his mouth, whimpering with his eyes clamped shut.. Brick only twisted his lips impatiently, now pointedly looking at me like it was my fault. He dropped Bruiser and he caught himself before tumbling towards the ground, his face crumpling again in despair.
"Don't worry, Dude." I assured him. Bruiser turned his pout to me, so I put on my best 'soothing' voice- the one that works best on Blayzer. "I'll talk to him, don't worry. He's just angry at me."
Bruiser only sniffled at me, shifting his feet against the stone floor. That pouty bottom lip trembled dangerously.
"I'm gonna have bwuises." He sniffed, rubbing at his abused arm. He turned his gaze back to his Dad hopefully. The kid had these stares that stabbed right at the heart, I couldn't imagine Brick and Bane's blood red eyes ever being innocent, but my nephew managed it.
Brick only grumbled. I guess he was immune by now. "Then you'll live up to your name." He muttered, slumping back down to sit at the table.
Bruiser only growled at that, sniffing up the last of his tears and stomping off angrily, his hands curled into fists.
"He's such a sook." Brick growled to me once we knew he was out of earshot. "Bloss is babying him too much- I know it. We never had that kinda stuff and we turned out okay, but Bruiser whines about everything-"
"Sounds like someone I know." I teased him, my tongue between my teeth. He gave me a venomous look, but I only grinned back in return. I couldn't help it- he threw tantrums as easily as his kid could. Sometimes it was like my brother had only grown taller since he was five years old- the rest of him stayed exactly the same.
"Shutup!" He snapped at me angrily, blood red eyes flashing dangerously. "That's not funny! And I'm being serious. He has to toughen up if he's gonna be a leader like me one day." He frowned in thought, his face taking on a serious, stern expression.
I had to roll my eyes at my brother. Even though we'd grown so much in power over the years, forming a powerful trio with the demon blood that now ran through our veins- he was still the self appointed leader, taking on all the responsibility and barking out never-ending orders. If Bruiser was anything like his old man, he had nothing to worry about.
Another crash sounded from upstairs, knocking Brick from his stupor and causing him to switch that narrowed glare on me. I groaned in resignation, hoisting my heavy boots onto the table before screaming my kid's name over my shoulder.
"BLAYZE!"
I could hear my voice booming up the hallways, sure to reach a few storeys up. Sure enough the thumping stopped- the house was- for a quick moment- graced with rare peaceful silence. I heard his own angry yell back to me.
"WHAT!"
Yep. He is very definitely pissed at me. I held back a growl as I raised my voice higher.
"KNOCK IT OFF!"
For a few seconds there was silence again- not even a creak to be heard throughout the huge house. But then-
"Ooo..." Even Brick winced at that splintering smash that echoed through the hallways as my son had clearly found the biggest, most expensive, thing to break. I had no idea what it was- or where he was- but it sounded like it was heavy- and expensive. "Him is going to have a cow."
That was followed by smirks from both of us, but I quickly shook myself- heading out to the front foyer to scream up the stairs once more.
"BLAYZE!" I yelled out to him, my eyes narrowed. I had to brace myself for this one. "GET DOWN HERE! NOW!"
Nothing. Even I had to admit, with my meanest yell, Blayze had some guts. I set my feet on the stone floor, and I could feel myself beginning to twitch as I readied myself.
"DON'T MAKE ME COME GET YOU!" I yelled out, my warning bouncing off the walls. I clenched my fists. "ONE...!"
Silence. My arms folded in front of my chest as I chewed at my gums.
"TWO!"
A moment's silence, and out of the corner of my eye I saw a bright lime green flash- a burst of light that shot across the landing and followed down the stairs, and before I could blink a familiar pair of bright apple green eyes were glaring at me- a defensive narrowed gaze that mirrored my own.
But his pale skin was slightly flushed, and despite the fact his lips were clenched together in defiance, he was holding in pants that showed he'd bolted as fast as he could just to make it in time before that final 'three' was uttered.
I couldn't help the grin that twitched on my lips. Blayze's stance matched mine- he stood the exact same way I did. I guess he's seen me so many times in a fighting stance, he just picked up on it. His thick black hair was splayed out the same as mine too- spiky and windswept, hanging into his face. He still wore his amulet too- Bane's amulet. The dark, almost black, emerald hung around his neck on a thin chain, under his shirt. He never went anywhere without it- he knew there would be Hell to pay if he ever did.
He had the same determined glare, the same clenched fists, with shoulders back proud, head held high- but with those bright, sweet, light green eyes- there was no missing his mother in him.
There was no forgetting that.
Blayze's gaze shifted awkwardly as he tried to hold my stare, and his feet shuffled against the hard ground as the silence between us stretched out.
"What?" he mumbled darkly, but still managed to look sulky while avoiding my gaze. I cocked an eyebrow. Anyone else who'd have such an attitude with me would be dead right where they stand. But he shifted his glare again, and now those apple green eyes were blinking at me dolefully- brow furrowed. I cracked a smirk.
"Noticed you were causing havoc upstairs..." I pressed, both eyebrows rising. He swallowed, twisting his lips. "And I saw your cousin looked a little bruised up."
His left eye twitched. Uh oh.
"He was being annoying!" Blayze finally snapped at me, even going as far as stomping his foot against the stone floor. His eyes narrowed viciously, fists tightening. I took a deep breath.
"Blayze-"
"And you said you'd be home early." He growled the last part through gritted teeth. Okay, he was definitely pissed. His glare was hardening. Amazingly, those eyes still looked nothing like mine- they grew colder, like a stone dark grey-green. Like sour apples.
I tried again. "Kiddo-"
"And why was she here?" He continued gravely, those steely eyes boring into me. Dammit. He saw her. He wasn't letting this go- like a dog with a bone, he was holding onto it until I caved. I let out an angry groan, now furious with myself. I had to let her stay...
"Look, Blayze." I growled at him, matching his stance. His guarded eyes narrowed further at me, and I had to heave a sigh as I held up my hands in surrender, lowering my voice. "Hey, you got me okay? I was home late, I'm sorry."
His face crinkled at me, arms folding over his chest as he looked away. Not enough.
"I mean, I'm really sorry." I tried again. Hey, this was difficult- Blayze is the only person who has ever heard me apologize around here. "I got caught up working, had to take care of some stuff. We'll hang out tonight, okay? I promise, and this time I'll keep it. Honest." I held up my right hand just to show I was serious, and watched the way his lips twisted in contemplation. His glare snapped back to me, still sulky. I tilted my own head.
"Come ooooonnn..." I pressed, giving him a wide smile. "Blayzer..."
"You swear?" Blayze grumbled at me, fierce eyes narrowed in on me, staring daggers. Jeez, he wasn't letting me off easy this time.
"Yes, Blayzer." I grinned at him, holding back a smirk. "I swear. Promise."
Blayze's glare dropped again to the floor, and he looked as though he was in deep thought as he left me hanging, me watching him with hidden amusement.
He's so much like her.
"...Okay." He pouted at me, but still threw me a growl as I gave him a winning smile. "But I wanna play my games- and I wanna practice flying!"
"Okay, Man." I said, leaning down to ruffle his hair. "You're the boss."
But he still held up that sulky exterior, his arms folding again as he eyed me off, as if studying me. "And she better not be there."
Okay, I had to laugh at that. Blayze did not look amused, but I dropped down to tug at his messy hair again.
"You really don't like Brat, do you?"
He shook his head, those sour apple eyes flashing angrily. He let out a squeak as I grabbed him, throwing him up slightly before immediately grabbing him back, the two of us airborne. He cracked one of those happy smiles, the same ones he used to give when I did that to him as a baby. He flies through the air at speeds he can't control, and I'm always there to catch him before he gets a chance to fall. He cackled at me as I held him, all anger gone.
"Don't worry dude." I smirked back at him. "I don't either."
.
Bubbles
.
I curled up in one of the chairs sitting in what's known as our 'common room' on the fourth floor, concentrating hard on the art book in my lap. After it became clear that we weren't allowed to leave the house, especially since we'd probably be captured/killed by any demons that caught our eye, Bloss and I tried to keep ourselves busy. I finally built up the courage to ask Boomer for some art supplies, and my request was immediately rewarded with almost every type of paint, crayon, pencil imaginable- with a ton of art paper as well. Since then, all I can think of to create are memories and scenes of past Townsville- the happy, cheerful memories that I wanted to portray and keep forever…this time, in watercolour.
I felt my tongue between my teeth as I dipped a tiny brush into my glass of water on the floor, and I stopped for a second to take in the damp picture in front of me. I smeared a drop of water along the brown logs of what resembled Fuzzy's cabin in the woods of Townsville Mountains.
Our room always seemed so quiet- The large, rumpus-type room we declared our sanctuary a long time ago. The Boys allowed the room to be ours, because we were restricted to the fourth floor anyway, and it made the days shorter…less like a prison and almost like…
A home.
I frowned as I stared at that smeared cabin, the damp pages wilting across my knees. A lot had changed. I could feel my stomach drop at the thought that I've become such a different person after all this, but I can't deny the guilt always creep up on me. Maybe if I had put up a better fight, not been so accepting of this…
"Watch-ya doin', Mama?"
My heart leapt into my throat and I jumped, my brush clattering to the floor. I spun my head around to see a pair of bright blue eyes gazing at me serenely, peering over my shoulder. Bliss.
She'd probably been hovering behind me for a while, and I had to give a timid smile when her face lit up at my reaction. She loves to scare me, I have to admit- I'm pretty easy to scare.
You never know what can sneak up on you in this house…
"Morning, Honey." I cooed at her, reaching out to stroke my girl's tangled sunshine blonde hair. I watched Bliss float upwards at the touch, and I couldn't help a brief thought flash through my mind- I wish I could still do that. "I'm just painting...did you sleep okay?"
Bliss nodded, eyeing the colourful picture her Mommy had created. She was in awe, and floated forward to gaze some more.
"It's really pretty!" She squealed with excitement, turning those bright eyes back to me. Even though she's only three, I know my daughter is just as excitable and bubbly as I was at that age. "Can you add some pink?"
I had to chuckle, staring back at Fuzzy's cabin thoughtfully. "As a matter of fact, I can..."
I felt my shoulders relax as Bliss wrapped her arms around my neck, kissing me good morning. My hand went to her hair again, and I gave her a disapproving frown.
"Sit down, Missy. I'll do your hair."
Bliss squealed but disappeared in a flash to get her hairbrush and bows, only to flash back to me in a matter of seconds. I pulled her to one of the giant armchairs and set to work, brushing her long blonde hair, my thoughts wandering once more.
I always wanted to be a Mom, but I never thought it would be with Boomer. Even though the boys like to keep us as uninformed as possible, I know Boomer and I have a different level of trust. We have a child together, and I made him promise when Bliss was born that we'd work together to protect our daughter. I mean, I can at least be thankful for that- that he trusts me and I trust him.
I also know the boys have taken over with the help of other demonic beings- and that they joined from the Underworld (or wherever Him and Bane were from) when the balance of power on Earth tipped their way. I know the world is now in turmoil, overrun by demons who were flaunting their power every way they could. I know everything that we previously knew in society had been flipped- there was no democracy, or free will, or barely any freedom at all. Police, army, politics- all failed to exist at the Rowdyruff's demonic helm…
And we know it's entirely our fault.
I parted Bliss's now untangled hair, holding my hand out for a band.
After Blayze, there was always talk of more Rowdyruff children to protect the legacy of their power- and once they had reached the top it was obvious protection was needed. Blossom fell pregnant straight away, and Bruiser was born. I remember how much Blossom had sobbed and cried that she didn't want this fate, and it was obvious my sister hadn't consented to the conception, and definitely didn't like that her child was born only to be a protector of evil. But every time I saw my sister and my nephew together, I know Blossom loves him more than anything. Blossom and Bruiser are almost inseperable, and I know on some level she must connect with Brick as well.
I tied up one side of Bliss' long golden hair, taking as much gentle care as possible.
I knew how Blossom feels, because not long after Bruiser was born I discovered I was pregnant. Even though I knew that's what Boomer wanted, I hardly felt ready at all. At that moment, it was no longer about Blossom and I but about my baby, my family. My priorities changed completely and I found myself leaning more on Boomer, crying to him about all the changes and emotions and him being there for me, uttering soothing words and rubbing my back- he guided me through it all. He was the only person I knew that felt the same way about our baby. And once Bliss was born, I dedicated my entire heart to spending all the time I could being a good mother, and giving her the best life I could- despite our situation.
Bliss grabbed a few bright sky blue ribbons- her favourite colour- and held them up to me expectantly. I felt a grin spread across my face as I took them, weaving them through her pigtails.
Despite everything- Boomer being a part of a trio that was running a dictatorship, based off a bloodline that was destined to run a corrupted, evil society- I'm still determined to give Bliss the best 'normal' life possible. I'm trying my best to be a great mother, one like one we never had.
I tied my best bow, finishing off Bliss' pigtails with a flick of my own hair- waving over my shoulders. Bliss glided upwards, swinging her pigtails happily. Everyone said she was a splitting image of me- pigtails and all.
"Thanks Mommy!"
I felt a proud grin on my face just as I heard Blossom enter the room, her own hair a mess of long, wavy ginger tangles and her faded eyes sporting slightly dark circles underneath them. I gave her a once over, and knew immediately she'd had a rough night.
"Hey, Bloss..." I said softly, turning in my chair to watch my sister sit beside me in her own chair. "Did you sleep okay?"
"Hardly." Blossom sighed, but gave her signature sweet smile regardless. "Bruiser spent the night with us, I love the little guy but he drives me crazy. Kicked me all night."
I couldn't hold back a scoff "I bet Brick loved that."
"He was fine. He snored the entire night..." Blossom grumbled, rolling her eyes. She immediately went to grab one of the books piled beside her- her own collection she had collected. With such a quick, curious mind and determined, restless personality, even being locked up in one of Him's castles in the middle of a demonic world didn't keep Blossom resigned. Brick had finally fulfilled her pleas by buying (i.e. stealing) every book he could find. Blossom spent most of her days reading, just as I spent most of the days creating my own 'masterpieces' and it was easily our own little pieces of sanity. It was what kept us busy in a house we were held prisoner. We have distractions, we have our babies, and we have each other.
And those alone made us forget, made us hold together and push on.
We sat in silence, immersed in our own thoughts. Bliss set up at my feet, colouring in her own books. Every now and then I felt her eyes flick up to check on us, just as she always did. Being the youngest (I knew the feeling well) she took comfort in always having us with her.
The house was just too full of boys otherwise.
Her tiny nose wrinkled as we heard a familiar whine.
Speaking of...
"MAMAAA!" Bruiser moaned loudly, a sharp flash of red light announcing his sudden arrival. He was beside his mother in an instant, planting his chin on the arm of her chair and giving her a pitiful look from those wide crimson eyes, tears on the brink of overflow.
Blossom turned her attention from her book to her son, her eyes widening as she took in his piteous expression. She immediately marked her place, snapping it closed.
"Blayze h-hit me." Bruiser whimpered, brandishing his bruised arm to further emphasize his pain.
I pouted for him at that. We both knew that bruise would last a while—Blayze hit pretty hard and demons don't automatically heal when a part of their bloodline injures them. It's part of their family connection…according to Boomer, anyway.
Bruiser sniffled again, cradling his arm. "I- I didn't even do any'fing-h-he's just being mean!"
"Aw, honey..." Blossom reached her arms out, Bruiser wasting no time in jumping into them. She cuddled her baby close, Bruiser wiping his face on her shirt. Neither of us could do anything about the situation. Blayze is much older and therefore impatient at his little cousin- it's been that way since Bruiser could fly and would follow Blayze around, just wanting to copy everything he did. Like his mother, he has a short temper and lashes out the only way his father taught him.
I feel for my nephew, even though we are all close- nobody can replace his mother. I can't imagine how much it hurts Blayze to see his cousins having mothers while he was only left to ponder why he didn't have one of his own.
"It's okay sweetie..." Blossom soothed him. "Blayze didn't mean it."
"You should yell at him..." Bruiser mumbled, his voice muffled by her shirt as he snuggled closer into her. Blossom held in a scoff, I wonder how thatwould go down with the green Ruff.
"I can't yell at Blayze, baby..." She grinned at him. "That's for Uncle Butch."
"But it's 'snot fair!" Bruiser wailed as more tears cascaded down his cheeks. "He's always being mean, and he doesn't have a Mom to yell at him!"
Blossom's mouth dropped open, but no noise came out. I felt my heart drop. I couldn't say what I wanted to. Blayze doeshave a mother. A great mother, probably even better than me...
Her eyes flicked to me, and I could only purse my lips and look away, feeling a sick, clawing feeling in the pit of my stomach at the mere mention of her. Our sister.
"Blayze...Blayze does have a mother, honey." I heard Blossom croak. "He...has a very nice Mommy. She's just not here...right now..." I looked over to see her bite her lip as Bruiser's eyes watched her closely, blinking innocently. "So...so Uncle Butch is filling in."
"When will she be back?" Bliss quipped from the side, now leaning in curiously.
"Uh. I- I don't know when, Baby." My answer was shaky. I felt my chest tighten, and wondered if Bloss was feeling as much pain as me. I grabbed at a one of Bliss' toys, holding it out to her. I struggled to find the right words. "Why don't you find some more paint? We can paint together!"
Bliss' cerulean eyes widened at that, a smile spreading across her rosy cheeks. "Okay!"
"You should go too, Bruiser." Blossom nudged him off. "Go help your cousin."
Bruiser gave her a pout but otherwise complied, resentfully following his younger cousin, slouching slightly as he flew after her down the hallway. As soon as the door snapped closed behind them, I reached for her sister's hand, only to find it clasping my shoulder. My eyes found hers, and I clenched her hand close as I saw they were dewy with telltale tears.
I gave a shaky sigh, feeling as though my heart was beating hard and fast in my throat. It had been a long time, but the emotions were still raw and fresh our minds. We both missed our sister more than anything- and without her it was as though we'd lost an arm, or a leg. Since Boomer told me I've never felt the same. Sure, we've lost ourselves in this prison, but we never thought we'd lose each other.And now, we both feel we've evolved into something totally different- and we can't even share that with our beloved sister. I can't ignore the pull to just give in- just admit my sister was dead and to forget about her.
but we could never admit that.
"It'll never stop hurting..." Blossom whispered into my ear, sniffling as she tried to hold back her tears. She numbly reached for her book, her hand clutching at her shirt where Bruiser had cuddled against her.
I shook my head, sighing as I turned back to my artwork. "Never."
Bliss flounced down the grand hallway, gliding carefully with her paints, humming to herself. She was such a happy, giddy little girl- her daddy's pride and joy. She couldn't wait to paint a picture with her Mom.
Her smile widened at that thought. She swayed from side to side, humming louder.
"Stop doing that!" Four year old Bruiser whined sulkily, following along. His crimson eyes glared at her, his arms folding across his chest. "You're such a baby."
Bliss sniffed, closing her eyes and sticking her nose further into the air as she lowered to the ground, skipping instead. She learned a long time ago not to listen to her cousins when they teased her.
Bruiser lowered to the ground to kick his feet, dragging them across the ground as he followed his little cousin, scowling in annoyance as he stared at the ground. He was concentrating so hard on the hardwood floors below he yelped in total surprise when he ran into Bliss, smacking into her as she looked up at who was at the end of the hallway.
Windswept, spiky hair, black hooded jacket with the sleeves rolled up, a few playful bruises littering his arms and baggy ripped jeans with worn sneakers and his trademark amulet around his neck- Blayze was waiting for his Dad to come back from a meeting so they could finally hang out and train. He looked up at hearing his whimsical cousin approach, and his mischievous apple green eyes glinted knowingly upon seeing them, his right eye twitching only slightly.
Bruiser froze, his eyes widening as he went back to cradling his already injured arm. He really didn't want any more bruises, but it was hard to stay on the right side of Blayze. Bliss eyed him warily, holding her supplies closer to her chest. She already knew he was in a bad mood, so she was especially careful.
Blayze smirked, kicking himself off the wall and standing a foot taller than his little blonde cousin. Bruiser was only a bit taller, but barely reached his shoulders.
"Hey Little Cuz..." He grinned at them, his tongue between his teeth. He shifted his gaze to Bliss. "...Baby Cuz."
Bruiser snickered at that. Bliss gave them both reproachful looks- having mastered this expression from her mother. She stuck her nose back in the air, going to walk past him.
Blayze stepped in her way. She sniffed, turning back around.
Bruiser moved to stand in her way.
"That's some cool paint you got there..." Blayze grinned from behind her, his eyes darkening. "Can I borrow some?"
"No!" It was Bliss' turn to pout, backing away from her cousin's evil stare.
"But I wanna paint something..." Blayze cackled at her, grinning mischievously. His eyes flicked to Bruiser. "Right Bruiser?"
Bruiser nodded vigorously, already feeling relieved he wasn't in the firing line this time. With Bliss around, he could actually have ...fun.
Bliss frowned. Even though she was only three, she didn't like the sound of this. Suddenly, Bruiser grabbed her from behind, and before she had a chance to let out one of her ear-splitting screams Blayze's hand snapped to her mouth.
Emerald zoomed through the air, pushing herself to go faster. The way she catapulted herself through the air, her stance, her technique- was all taught at a young age, so young she couldn't even remember when her mother taught her. Ever since she could fly, her mom was always right beside her- showing her how much faster she could go, how great she could be.
She had to grin at that. She could even remember when she could fly better than her Mommy could- when Buttercup could barely get off the ground Emmy flew around her head, following her on long walks.
Then she got stronger, she could lift her Aunt Cass up into the air (Cass screaming in protest at her body being in the hands of a three year old), she could punch through trees, she could dart into the atmosphere and back to the ground in a matter of seconds. Nothing made her out of breath, suddenly it was all about beating previous records, her mother timing her and teasing her, it only sparked a fire within her that longed to be the best she could be- despite being so young, nothing could extinguish that flame.
Snickering to herself, she could feel her eye twitch in excitement as she darted across the forest floor, skidding to a halt on the dirt-covered ground, spraying dust everywhere. She sped back up again, darting back. She was always practicing her stopping- it was easy enough to fly, but sometimes she overshot the landing. It was an easy mistake to make, according to her Mom- and she would know, the amount of times she had crashed into her.
She narrowed her eyes in determination.
But I don't wanna make mistakes... The five year old found herself thinking. I wanna be the best! Just like my Mommy!
She shot into the air again, hovering above the trees. Her mother's warnings rang in her head that she wasn't supposed to go above the tree canopy, but she always stuck her head above only slightly- just to see what was around. She was a great lookout for Cass for this reason.
She dropped back onto the ground, creating a mini-crater in the earth. As she shuffled restlessly, she could feel the heat within her fingertips spark again. She chewed anxiously on her bottom lip, glancing around carefully at her surroundings. Faintly, in the distance, she could sense her mother having a deep, meaningful conversation with Cass.
She planted her feet in the ground, shaking her black hair out of her eyes. As she looked down at her fingers, she tried to muster up all the emotion she could. That's the trick. She thought of happy stuff, the things that made her smile. She thought of anything that could make that power spark again.
Sometimes, the young girl liked to think of her Daddy. She knew she had one out there, and even though her mother was the best there was- she couldn't deny she wondered about him. Her Mom never mentioned anything, but she still liked to imagine what he was like.
I bet he's really nice... She'd think to herself whenever he entered her mind. She always struggled to capture a picture in her head. I bet he misses me, wherever he is.
A burst of green light exploded within her hands and she gave a happy giggle, holding out her hands. A sparking, green burst of energy shot from them and surrounded her- a sphere of protective light. She watched it, mystified, hoping her Mom didn't catch her. She closed her hands, letting the force seep back into her skin.
If anyone had been looking at that innocent little girl in the woods, they would have had to look twice to notice those innocent, pure emerald green eyes darken to a solid, daring black.
.
Butch
.
Boomer looked annoyed, and I guess I couldn't blame him. My boots were propped up against the heavy black marble table we used for meetings, and I was picking at my fingernails. Brick wasn't paying attention either, he was staring out of the window chewing the inside of his mouth. Boomer's hands curled into fists, his eyes darkening as he leaned forward, blonde hair falling into his eyes.
"Guys." He sneered at us angrily. "This is serious."
"Yeah, we hear ya Boomer." I grinned at him. "Threat. Hunter. Right. Yeah."
His fists tightened before releasing in an attempt to calm himself. He looked ready to strangle me, and I only smirked in reply. Brick stepped between us, looking bored.
"Boomer..." He grumbled to him. "Let's not blow this out of proportion. I know you're taking this Hunter thing really seriously- but there's a whole heap of them out there! You wouldn't believe how many reports the guys give me about hunters they've caught." He shrugged, rolling his eyes.
Brick may have changed in looks over the years, but he's certainly kept the same arrogant personality- the exact personality he seems to deem necessary as a leader. He stood cockily between us, his broad shoulders square and his deep crimson eyes surveying us carefully. He'd put on a whole heap of muscle like Boomer and I had- mostly from all of the battling and hunting we had to do to keep order (but of course neither are as buff as me).
Brick still wore that stupid hat on his head too, his wild hair squashed by the old trusted baseball cap. Maybe it made him feel 18 again, I dunno.
"Everyone wants to be a hero, everyone wants to be the saviour." He scoffed at this, and my smirk widened as well. "Hunters are bound to get a few lucky kills every now and then, but it's only because brain-dead teenage demons are running around." He heaved his muscular shoulders again. "Collateral damage."
"But it's not just lower levels!" Boomer growled at us both, his cheeks reddening. "It's higher levels too, whoever these humans are, they're gaining skills-"
"We haven't even completed our takeover yet." Brick dismissed him again. I noticed his crimson eyes flash with impatience. "Only the major cities- and we'll soon spread our takeover swiftly. It's already begun. They'll be knocked out like the rest."
"Fine." Boomer grunted, looking bitter. His face scrunched up to show he was extremely pissed off, and I found it extremely tempting to pinch his cheeks, just to annoy him further. Despite being a big, bad, powerful demon, he'll always be my little brother. He's still teased as being the 'baby'- the weakest one of us. And I was constantly picking up on him being the sweetest he could be to ol' Bubbles- he really was a sucker for that girl- completely whipped. It was as though she kept him prisoner- if anything. Not to mention how much he dotes on that little girl of his. You would never guess he was a big, bad demon.
"But just keep an eye out, okay" He insisted darkly. "Rebellions are popping up everywhere, and I just don't want to endanger any of us." His eyes narrowed in on us, his voice icy. "...Especially when it comes to the kids, and the girls."
Brick nodded. I had to sneer bitterly at that. Blayze and I can take care of ourselves just fine.
"I don't want us to let our guard down..." Boomer growled again, sinking into the chair opposite me. "Are there many patrols?"
"I've increased the guard..." Brick muttered thoughtfully, tapping his fingers on the table. "But so far no immediate threats have been noted, especially around the perimeter. Majority are satisfactory with how things are run...so there's no word of rogues." Brick shrugged. "Just a few hunters- but again, they've been taken care of."
"Fair enough." Boomer huffed. "But just be warned, because I heard-"
A sharp, ear splitting scream cut him off and echoed through the house. We simultaneously winced. Only one person could give a scream like that.
A sonic scream.
"Aw crap!" Boomer groaned in annoyance, bolting out of his chair and flying through the door in a flash of deep blue light. Exchanging knowing looks, Brick and grimaced before following him.
.
Buttercup
.
A life with restricted electricity and telecommunications takes a while to get used to, but Cass pulled me through it. After a few months, we scarcely noticed the aspects of camping out in different sites every week. This is our life. This is our safehouse.
I pondered this as I looked around at the trees surrounding us, taking it all in. So quiet and peaceful- it was like there was no demonic takeover, the world was the same. Like nothing had changed.
"It's a big thing, BC." Cass sighed to me as we ate our breakfast, shaking me out of my thoughts. We were sitting on a fallen tree, munching on her extra crunchy bacon. "I don't like that you're basing this decision just on what some asshole has to say..." She frowned with thought, her sharp eyes turning to glare at me. "What if it's a trap?"
I felt my face split into a smirk, my cheeks bulging with bacon. My eyes wandered to where Emerald was playing over the lake- flying so low she was just skimming the water- zooming back and forth. I think she liked to see her reflection.
"I can handle Jayden...and even the lowlife demons he runs with..." I frowned with thought, my mind flashing back to the old scenes of my home town- my beloved battleground- the park, the city, even school...there were good times. I really hated the thought that Butch had destroyed everything. I sighed, swallowing and putting my plate down. "This isn't just for me, Cass." I groaned at the realisation, everything seemed to hit me at once. "The longer we wait, the harder it'll be."
Cass hesitated, looking at the flickering flames of the campfire before giving me a long, thoughtful look. "I don't doubt your abilities Buttercup..." She said slowly, carefully. "It's just- it's so unpredictable. We've only heard small bits of information on what the Boys are like, there may be worse, higher level demons out there- and I just don't want to lose you. I mean, what if someone recognises you?"
My lips twisted. Even when I looked at myself in a mirror, I can't recognise myself. I always wonder if Townsville had given up on me yet- really believed I'm dead and never coming back. Maybe nobody wants a glimmer of hope. Maybe everyone already gave in.
I looked over at Emmy again- watching the way she innocently floated over the calm water, her finger dipped in the calm pool as she floated in the air. She splashed the surface sweetly, a smile spreading across her face. She flicked upward, a brilliant burst of lime green light following her. She was so sweet, vibrant with so much spirit. She had a sharp mind like Blossom, with the innocence of Bubbles... But she had passion and fire just like I did- mixed with the stubborn, fierce attitude of her father.
I had to do it- for her. For Blayzer My sisters and their kids.
"I have to try, Cass." I mumbled. "I know I've only had a few years training, but time's running out. I don't want Emmy to grow up in a world where we're always moving and she isn't given a reason why, I don't want her to grow up scared."
Cass gave me a trusting half smile, nodding her head slightly. "Emmy? Scared? Your Emmy?" She scoffed at that, and I had to smirk in reply. I looked around the camp again, just taking it all in.
"I need to see my sisters again, I can't let them continue to think I'm not there for them..."
"I know it's hard BC, I can't imagine..." Cass chewed on her bottom lip as she stared at her empty plate. "But just...don't jump into this okay? Maybe some more hardcore training for a few more months... Townsville is only about a couple hundred miles away from here- not far if we fly."
I nodded at that, feeling resigned as I stared out into that serene lake. My mind was set, determined and focused.
I'm not about to let this go. There's no way I'm going to give up- not without a fight...
"A few weeks..." I muttered, narrowing my eyes at the words. "And we make our move."
I heard her laugh, and I looked over in alarm. She was slightly tainting the ferocity and seriousness of the atmosphere. She was giving me a cheeky smirk, her dark eyes flashing with mirth.
"We're just going to attack the Ruffs- the most powerful rulers in this world at the moment." She snickered. "Me, the humble powerless sidekick to Buttercup- the headstrong, surviving member of the Powerpuff Girls." She sighed, her eyes rolling upward in what looked like a pondering, thoughtful glance. "We're really going for the big time, aren't we?"
I smirked back. "Oh yeah, Cassie...we're ready." I glanced back at my little girl, knowing she'll be thrilled at the new adventure ahead. We'll have to train like crazy over the next few weeks.
I know she won't mind though... I bit back a smirk. Just like me, she just loves the challenge.
.
Butch
.
All three of us halted at the doorway just in time to see a flash of green and red shoot past, followed by that piercing shriek again. Soon enough, Bliss' bright blue light flashed past as well.
I had to hold back a burst of laughter, my sides feeling like they were about to split.
Instead of her trademark long, golden pigtails- Blayze and Bruiser had pinned my poor niece down and slathered her hair in what looked like thick black muck- so much so that her hair stood upwards, looking strikingly similar to the Bride of Frankenstein. There were matching hand prints painted across her cheeks as well, followed by dark coloured splatters all over her clothes. Her cherished golden blonde hair was now stiff and black, spiked into the air and sticking out at all angles. And she looked horrified.
"BLAAAYYYYYYZE!" She screamed in horror, all three running passed us. Blayze was too busy cackling, Bruiser joining in. They turned around to stare at the screaming girl, matching evil smirks on their faces. Bliss was almost in tears, I could see she was trying to stay strong but her innocent crystal blue eyes were quickly filling with tears, her shaky hands touching at her hair as she grew more distressed. "What d-did you d-do! FIX IIIIIIT!"
"You look like Bride of Frankenstein!" Blayze snickered at her, waving his black covered fingers ominously. "Like a corpse bride!"
Bliss gasped at that, her hands going to her stiff, spikey hair with horror. Bruiser doubled over with laughter, pointing one of his own stained fingers at her.
"CORPSE BRIDE! CORPSE BRIDE!"
"SHUTUP!" Bliss squealed at them, dissolving into tears. She didn't have whiny, loud sobs like Bruiser, more innocent little gasps of humble tears. It was enough to tug at your heartstrings, especially Boomer's. Luckily for my little niece, she looked up through her tears to see us standing there, and she wasted no time in turning back to her taunting cousins.
"You're in SO much trouble!" She pouted grumpily, nose in the air. I saw Blayze sneer at her, his eyes snapping to the ceiling in disbelief.
"Oh yeah?"
I gave a little cough, my own eyebrows rising. I saw him freeze before he whirled around, all cockiness fading. I knew Boomer and Brick were giving their best annoyed glares, but I couldn't help but smirk. Blayze had a lot to learn about getting caught.
"Daddy!" Bliss immediately cried out to Boomer, darting over to him. Taking one look at Boomer's murderous glare, Blayze ran off in the blink of an eye, leaving a train of bright lime green light after him. Bruiser immediately went to follow his cousin, but missed the archway and smacked into the wall instead, falling backwards and blinking in alarm. He scrambled back up and bolted again, his own crimson light leaving a trail behind him.
"They ruined my hair!" Bliss wailed loudly, crying with despair as she fingered her black mess of hair. Even with her supernatural strength she couldn't pull her hair apart- the guys had really done a number on her this time.
Okay, I know it's bad- but I couldn't help but swell with a little bit of pride at my Blayzer. Already he was a terror. Already he was a spitting image of me.
Boomer whirled around to glare at me, catching my sly smirk. I sobered up quickly.
"Can you control your Satanic spawn?" Brick grumbled at me, but the corners of his mouth were twitching in a telltale way. I raised my eyebrows in return.
"That depends..." I contemplated mockingly. "Do you happen to have a crucifix?"
I am
Standing alone
And it's me
But you can't see
Who I am...
Heh heh. Poor Bliss is already getting tortured. Poor thing!
I hope everyone liked this chapter. It's my birthday soon (eek!) so PLEAAAASE fulfil my birthday wishes by reviewing and giving me some feedback! :D I'm easily pleased. Just click that beautiful review button and I'll love you forever!
Until next time!
Love, Dino xoxo