Ok, we're almost there! I ask that you wait just one more chapter, ok? After this one, the big one will finally take shape! Our heroes are almost ready to meet!
Chapter 17: Departure
Meanwhile, at the Loud Residence...
During the chase...
"I've sent my findings to you. I'm sure you have received them?" Lisa was speaking to the monitor.
"Yes we did." The voice said. "We'll be sure to look them over. I still can't believe she's been alive after all this time."
"I was unable to coordinate her exact location, but I'm sure from the surveillance footage I aquired from the Michigan Central Station shows that it was heading for Elmore around the time she disappeared." Lisa said. "I wonder if she was the girl Lori saw digging through her boyfriend unit's trash cans."
"Still, this was a big help Miss Lisa Loud." The voice said. "I have to say, you have such a talent for a girl your age."
"Thank you too, Dr. Kleiner." Lisa said, with the monitor showing Dr. Issac Kleiner. "I hope this helps the SPD find her before the Dark Phoenix does."
"We sure hope so as well." Kleiner said. "Take care Miss Loud."
"You too." She said, and the monitor disconnected. In secret, she is aware of the SPD and their existance. While she was not a member, she was a good friend to Dr. Kleiner, which is how she came to know the organization. Since yesterday, she was helping them find some information about Franz Hopper, and she was told that their friend from the outside agreed to help if they found the professor's daughter.
The child prodigy got up from her seat, and then glanced at the window. Peeping her head up, she saw her brother Lincoln putting stuff in CJ's car. She noticed the symbols SPD on it. To be honest, Lisa knew something off about CJ when she met him today, and she knew what the SPD truly meant, and who they truly were. And she knew that CJ was in fact an SPD operative. She was helping them search for information on Franz Hopper and his work for the past month. And they have an interest in her brother?
"I wonder why the SPD is also interested with my brother-unit?" Lisa asked herself. "He has no connections to Franz Hopper... Maybe because he saw her that night when he was patrolling the streets last month or probably because they think his skills could be of use of them." She then turned to the viewer.
"Before you all lose you intellectual capabilities, yes I've always known Lincoln was a superhero." Lisa told the viewer. "I just didn't tell him or my family units because I want to respect his wishes in keeping it secret. I am human after all." She then turned her computer off and then left her room to see Lincoln off.
"So, wait, you leaving?"
That was the first question Clyde asked Lincoln as he was packing his stuff into the car. Clyde is Lincoln's best friend, the nerdy kid with the circular thick rimmed glasses, freckles and black hair styled in an afro, dressed with a yellow-and-blue striped shirt with a white collar, black pants and tennis shoes. They've been friends since they were little, especially due to their love of Ace Savvy. He is sloHoward and Harold Micbride's adopted son. He is very neurotic and worriesome, probably because he has allergies and asthma. But he's always willing to help Lincoln when he needs it, and to be honest, he loves hanging out at his place, spending time with his sisters as well.
He was told yesterday by Lincoln that he was leaving for a very important matter. Clyde is fully aware of Lincoln's secret life as a super hero, and has done a fantastic job at keeping it a secret. He even gave Lincoln some advice and suggestions for what kind of gear the white haired kid should use during his patrolling.
"Yeah, I have to." Lincoln said. "Let's just say that, as Kim Possible would say, it's a save the world thing."
"Ooooh, I get it." Clyde said. "Well then, I won't ask anymore. Here, let me help." Going to the other side of the suitcase, the boy helped his white-haired friend heave the bag into the backtrunk, though the african-american boy is not as strong as Lincoln. Despite this, the two managed to put the case in the trunk.
"Sorry if I won't be here for most of the summer." Lincoln said.
"Eh, it's alright." Clyde said. "It's all part of being a hero. Besides, I'm still in a good mood today."
"Really, why?" Lincoln asked.
"Well, remember when I told you when my dads said that they're gonna adopt a younger sibling?"
"Yeah, what about it?" Lincoln asked.
"Well, my dads found someone who's looking for someone to give her baby a good home!" Clyde said. "I'm gonna be a big brother!"
"Sweet!" Lincoln said as he high-fived his best friend. "Who'd they get in contact with?"
"Can't really say." Clyde said. "From what I heard, my dads came into contact with their old highschool gal-friend from Elmore, and she told them the mother is an underage teenager they took in. She says that she's looking for someone to give her baby a good home."
"Wait, an underage teenager?" Lincoln asked.
"Yeah, she's around fourteen or fifteen." Clyde said. "My dad's friend said that she's been out on the streets for a long time."
"Oh, man, that bites." Lincoln said.
"Yeah, but she's doing fine now." Clyde said. "And it's surprising that she wants to give her baby to us. But hey, she wants what's best for her child, so I don't see any harm in it."
"That's great." Lincoln said. "When are you gonna see her?"
"Well that's the thing." Clyde said. "She hasn't given birth to her yet, and it probably won't be until another week or so at the least."
"Well, I guess I can meet her when I get back." Lincoln said.
"Hey Lame-O." A voice said behind the boy. He turned his head to see Ronnie Anne, the tough hardcore latin-american tomboy with dark tan skin, black hair worn in a ponytail, with freckles and two buck teeth. Her attire consisted of a purple hoodie with jean shorts, a white tank top underneath, and blue shoes with light pink socks worn high. Ronnie Anne is Lincoln's close friend and crush. Like him, she comes from a big family, consisting of many uncles, aunts, cousins and grandparents due to her latin / mexican heritage. She contantly bullies Lincoln and sometimes humiliates him in front of his peers, but the reason behind that is because she actually likes him... a lot. They actually became friends when Lincoln's sisters got involved... or meddled into the situation, where their point of Ronnie Anne bullying their brother due to her liking him was proven right... after she punched him in the face for kissing her.
Since then, the two have been friends ever since, while trying to tell everyone that they were not dating. But to be honest, the thought of them both actually together was something they both liked. She was told yesterday by Lincoln that he was leaving, but unlike Clyde, she had no knowledge that the white haired boy she liked very much was the NEX El Tigre, which was something her family always praised because of the Riveras, the family El Tigre originated from, were Latin / Mexican as well. So he told her that he was going to Summer Camp for a month, which surprised her, but she understood.
"Oh, hey Ronnie Anne." Lincoln said. "Thanks for coming."
"No problem." Ronnie Anne said. "Did you think I was going let you leave without saying goodbye." She gave him a punch on the shoulder, but it was a friendly punch.
"Sorry I'm gonna be gone for a while." Lincoln said.
"Eh, it's ok." Ronnie Anne said. "I just hope I can put up with Bobby and Lori at my house constantly." The two looked over and saw Lori and Bobby flirting with each other. Bobby was Ronnie Anne's older brother, as he too had tan skin with black hair with a tuft combed upwards. He wore blue jeans, brown shoes with multiple white stripes, a black belt with agold buckle and a cream-colored T-shirt underneath a green button shirt. Unlike Ronnie Anne, Bobby is more relaxed, easy going, kind and has a carefree attitude, similar to Leni in terms of perception and intelligence. He is also best friends with Lincoln, having a big brother little brother relationship. He is also Lori's boyfriend.
"Oh babe, you know I love you so much." He said as he nuzzled Lori's neck.
"I love you too Boo-Boo Bear." She said as she kissed him, while Ronnie Anne and Lincoln looked with disgust.
"So cheesy." They both said. The white haired boy turned to Clyde, who was also showing a bit of disgust. Back then, Clyde had an obsessive crush on Lori, up to the point where he would have a massive nose bleed and get jealous whenever she and Bobby hung out. But suddenly, Clyde was not doing so. It wasn't because he was now comfortable, it's because he was no longer interested in Lori.
"Wow, Clyde, you're not having a nose bleed or getting jealous?" Lincoln asked.
"Nah, I've finally given up on Lori." Clyde said. "Stopped being interested in her after finding out what she does in the bathroom. That's Bobby's problem now."
"Hey, Lincoln!" Lynn called out, holding Lincoln's blue backpack, which had his smaller things, such as comic books, cellphone, sketchbook, art supplies, and Bon Bon, his stuffed rabbit. "You forgot your backpack."
"Oh, thanks Lynn." Lincoln said as she gave it to him. He didn't know how long the trip to the SPD's headquarters was going to take, so he prepared himself for a long ride. As Lynn turned to see Clyde however, she froze instantly. The boy removed his glasses for a second to scratch between his eyes, and then placed them back on. The jock kept staring at him... at his cute... cute... face, and her heart was pumping in a strange rhythem, and her cheeks turned red.
"Lynn?" Lincoln asked as he moved into her sight. "Earth to Lynn, you alright?" Seeing her brother, the jock quickly shook her head.
"Uh, yeah, I'm good." Lynn said.
"Oh!" Clyde said looking down at his feet. "My shoes untied. Don't wanna trip and fall down again." He turned for a second and bent down to tie his shoes. Lynn however, kept staring at him, and at his thin buttocks. Surprisingly, while Clyde finally got over his crush on Lori, Lynn started developing feelings for the thirteen year-old. She didn't know why she liked him, because he was the exact opposite of her. She's tough, he's cowardly. She's daring, he's cautious, she's a sportsgirl, he's a nerd. But she didn't care. She just... liked him.
"Cute butt." She whispered, unaware that Lincoln heard that.
"What?" He asked.
"What?" Lynn asked, as Ronnie Anne rolled her eyes, knowing about Lynn's sudden romantic interest in Lincoln's friend.
"You have everything packed honey?" Rita asked.
"Yeah, I have everything." Lincoln said. "Suitcase, Backpack, supplies, toothbrush, everything." His suitcase was full of clothes, toothbrush, toothpaste, and sleep attire should he need it. Of course he's gonna need it. He's not gonna wear the same clothes everyday while he's away. Pretty soon, all the girls and their father were outside. While he told everyone yesterday he was leaving the next day, they were a bit surprised. But neverless, they were excited. This was going to be goodbye for a while, so the girls, and Lisa who had just joined them, decided to say their goodbyes together.
"Well, looks like we won't be seeing you for a while." Lori said.
"Yeah, but I'll be back soon." Lincoln said.
"Don't worry, I'll be sure to hold the fort while you're gone." Lori said. "I'll make sure nobody goes into your room, and if you send any messages to my phone, I won't delete them."
"Thanks Lori." Lincoln said as he gave his sister a hug.
"You take care little bro!" Bobby said as he gave Lincoln a hug too. "I'll keep Lori company while you're away, ok?"
"Thanks, Bobby." Lincoln said. He then turned to Leni, who was looking away.
"Goodbye!" Leni said.
"Leni, I'm the one who's leaving." Lincoln said.
"Oh, right." Leni said, turning back around. "Sorry about that." She then looked at her younger brother, and there were tears forming up in her eyes.
"Leni?" The boy asked.
"You're growing up so fast Linky." Leni said. "I'm Gonna Miss You So Mu-huh-huh-huh-uch!" She cried as she hugged him tightly, pressing his face into her stomach. Despite that she was only a month along, the boy could hear the heartbeat inside her. With the experiences he's had when Rita was carrying his other siblings in her tummy, he knew that Leni was going through the major mood swings all women go through when they're in the nest.
"Leni, it's the hormones, ok?" Lincoln said. Luckily, Lori stepped in and dragged Leni away.
"Don't worry Leni, Lincoln will be back, ok?" Lori said.
"I know, but I'll miss him sooo much!" Leni wailed.
"C'mon Leni, let's go take your prenatals." Her older sister said as she took her into the house.
"Well, guess this is goodbye for now lil' bro." Luna said as she approached the white haired boy.
"For now at least." Lincoln said.
"While you're there, be sure to have a Rock'n Good Time, alright?" Luna said.
"Sure thing." Lincoln said. "Good luck at your gig this weekend."
"I'll be sure to dedicate it to you bro." Luna said, giving her lil' bro a hug.
"Hey Lincoln, I made you this joke book in case you're missing me while you're away." Luan said.
"Wow, thanks Luan." Lincoln said, putting the book in his backpack.
"Oh hey Lincoln, do you know what the Buffalo said to her son when he left home?" Luan asked.
"No, what?" Lincoln asked.
"Bison!" Luan said. "Get it? Bi Son?" She gave a laugh and a snirk. Normally everybody would be tired of puns, but Lincoln gave a smile.
"Bi Luan." Lincoln said, giving her sister a hug. He then turned to see Lynn Jr.
"Well, guess this is it... for now." she said.
"Yep." Lincoln said. "You gonna be ok?"
"Yeah, I'll be fine." Lynn Jr. said. "It's still kinda weird not having you here, you know?"
"Tell me about it." Lincoln said. "Good luck at your baseball games Lynn."
"Don't worry, I don't need luck." Lynn said. "Besides, luck is nothing but bull, you know? While you're there, if anyone messes with you, don't forget the training I've been giving you, ok?"
"Ok." Lincoln said. The two then gave each other a hug, which was a lot longer than with his other siblings. That's the sign of how much closer they've gotten over the past couple years. He then turned to Lucy, who's eyes were hidden under her bangs.
"Sigh..." Lucy said. "It seems that this is goodbye."
"Yeah, but don't worry Lucy." Lincoln said. "I won't be gone too long... I think."
"If you're wondering if I'm sad, it's alright." Lucy said. "I enjoy misery. But I will write a poem for you when you return."
"Thanks Luce." Lincoln said. "Just don't stay in the dark for to long."
"Don't worry, I won't." Lucy said, and gave a smile. After their hug, Lincoln looked at his twin sisters.
"Awww, I wish we could go with you." Lana said.
"Me too, but they only selected me." Lincoln said.
"It's still not fair though." Lola said. "How am I gonna win this summer's pageant knowing you'll be away."
"You're pageants aren't that important." Lana said.
"I know that." Lola said. "Don't ruin the moment Lana."
"Say girls, can you both do me a favor?" Lincoln asked. "Try not to fight each other too much, and promise you'll get along while I'm away, ok?"
"Sure thing Linc!" Lana said.
"Anything for you!" Lola said, with the twins giving a big hug to their brother, who returned the favor. As they broke the hug, the boy turned to his child prodigy sister.
"So, it seems you're ready to depart on your little adventure." Lisa said.
"Yeah, mom did say to think of it as an adventure." Lincoln said.
"Just in case you ever need to talk to us, I upgraded your phone so you can video chat with us when you need to." Lisa said.
"Wow, thanks Lisa." Lincoln said.
"It's my pleasure brother-unit." Lisa said, giving a hug to her brother. "Be careful out there, ok?"
"Sure thing... wait, why?" Lincoln asked.
"Just wishful thinking." Lisa said with a nod. The boy gave a smile, then turned his attention to Lily.
"Linky go bye bye?" Lily asked.
"Yeah, I'm leaving for a while." Lincoln said. "But I'll be back soon. Wanna hug from your big brother?" The three year-old looked at him with a smile, and then ran off, leaving the white haired boy alone.
"Oh... ok." Lincoln said, lowering his head. But then the little girl ran up to him and gave him a big hug.
"I love you, Linky!" Lily said. Hearing that made the boy smile, and he embraced her in a hug. But then he heard snoring coming from the little girl. He picked her up in his arms.
"She's asleep again." Lincoln said, giving her to his mom.
"Guess so." Rita said. "Well, I guess this is goodbye Lincoln."
"Yeah, I guess so." Lincoln said, but then his smile then faded, and he stared down at the ground.
"What's wrong son?" Lynn Sr. asked.
"It's just... I never thought I would be leaving home." Lincoln said. "I'm gonna miss you guys."
"We're gonna miss you too Lincoln." Rita said. "But you'll be back."
"She's right sport." Lynn Sr. said. "No matter where you are, we'll always be with you." The boy raised his head up and gave a smile. He embraced his parents in a big hug, with the Loud sisters coming up to form a huge mega family hug.
"Take care Lincoln." Clyde said as he high-fived his friend.
"You too." The boy replied. Ronnie Anne then approached the boy.
"Have fun, ok?" She asked.
"Sure will." Lincoln said as the girl gave him a warm hug. A tint of red appeared on his face, but he didn't care. He wrapped his arms around her, concealing the hug. This went on for about almost eight seconds, until they realized they hugged too long, longer than the last time.
"Awww... I told you they were dating." Lola said.
"We're not dating!" Lincoln and Ronnie spoke in unison, though more tints of red appeared on their cheeks. Then a honking sound came from the car, with CJ waving his hand.
"Better get going." Lincoln said as he grabbed his backpack. "Goodbye everyone!"
"Goodbye Lincoln!" Everyone said. The boy ran up to the car and got in the front passenger seat. As he closed the door, he glanced back at his family. He knew that once he left, there was no going back. But he SPD needed his help, and he sure wasn't going to back out yet. He then turned to see CJ in the driver's seat.
"You'll see them again." He said.
"I know." Lincoln said.
"You ready... El Tigre?" CJ asked. The boy looked at him with a smile, confident.
"Sure am... Captain Japan." Lincoln said.
"Then let's go." CJ said with a smile. He started the car, and it drove off, heading down the street.
"Have fun sweetie!" Rita called out as the others waved goodbye. The car then took off, and Lisa stared down.
"I wonder if Lincoln knows what he's getting into?" She thought.
The car was driving down Interstate 375 and turning off on Interstate 75. CJ was driving, and Lincoln was in the passenger seat.
"So, off we go." Lincoln said.
"Yep." CJ said. "This is the start of the adventure." Lincoln then looked at the boy.
"How old are you?" Lincoln asked.
"16." CJ said. "If you're wondering, yes I do have a driver's license."
"Cool." Lincoln said. "Your lucky you and most teens do. My sister Leni didn't get her license until last month. And she's eightteen."
"Well, there's a lot of people who don't get their license until that age." CJ said. "I know someone who didn't get their license until he was twenty."
"Wow." Lincoln said. The boy then reached into his backpack, and pulled out one of his comic books, much to CJ's notice.
"Ace Savvy?" CJ asked. "By Bill Buck?"
"Yeah, he's a comic book superhero." Lincoln said. "His main weapon is playing cards."
"Ahh, so he's like Superman and Gambit combined." CJ said.
"Yep." Lincoln said. "I know what you're thinking, it makes me a bit of a nerd."
"That's fine." CJ said. "if it makes you feel better, there are lots of people part of fandoms nowadays. There's even a fandom for people who like to watch the Pony cartoons."
"Yeah, I've learned that after I caught Lucy and Lynn watching Pretty Pretty Ponies one time." Lincoln said. "I'm surprised they managed to convince Mom and Dad to take them last year to Pony CiderFest in Wisconsin."
"I've heard about that show." CJ said. "You watch it too?"
"Not really." Lincoln said. "I'm not much of a Brony, but I do love the community. They make the best content." The boy turns to the viewer and gives a wink.
"I still have my fair share of fandom in my life." CJ said.
"I was beginning to figure that, with you being Japanese and all." Lincoln said. "Do you read Manga, or watch Anime?"
"No, I don't actually read much Manga or Anime, though I do watch a bit of Attack on Titan and My Hero Academia once in a while." CJ said.
"Oh." Lincoln said. "What kind of comics do you read?"
"Tokusatsu genre." CJ said. "Mostly Kamen Rider and Super Sentai."
"Super Sentai, what is that?" Lincoln asked.
"Power Rangers." CJ said.
"Ohhhh... wait, Power Rangers originated from Super Sentai?" Lincoln asked.
"Yep." CJ said.
"Huh... never knew that." Lincoln said, looking back out the window, seeing the sign they were passing by.
You Are Now Leaving Great Lakes City. Come back soon!
The sign said it all, as they were indeed leaving home.
"Never thought I would leave home so far away. This is now officially uncharted territory."
"Definitely takes you out of your comfort zone, does it." CJ said. "You gonna be ok?"
"Yeah." Lincoln said. "I'll be alright. It's like what Mom said. Think of it as an adventure."
"And speaking of adventure, check this out." CJ said as he clicked the button on the steering wheel. Suddenly, the car they were driving began to be lifted off the road. Actually it was floating off the road. There were jets below pushing the car up from under and the wheels on the side stopped and turned over to face the ground. A Jet wing appeared on each side, and the front turned more arrow-dynamic. Lincoln looked outside as he saw that they were in the air and no longer on the ground.
"Whoa..." Lincoln said. "This car is a jet?"
"Actually, the jet turns into a car." CJ said.
"Neat!" Lincoln said, feeling more excited. He couldn't believe that this day just got more exciting. But with this being the SPD, he knew that this was also serious stuff. So, he did his best to keep his excitement to a minimum.
"So this is like the Big Leagues right?" Lincoln asked.
"Pretty much." CJ said.
"And we're part of a team?" Lincoln asked.
"Sure are." CJ said.
"How many of us are there?" Lincoln asked.
"There's another one, and he's off collecting his buddies." CJ said. "He highly requested it."
"So this is like S.H.I.E.L.D. and the Avengers, right?" Lincoln asked.
"You can call it that." CJ said.
"Ok then, so what certain qualities do I have to show?" Lincoln asked. "I mean, this is serious stuff, so should I be serious?"
"Kid, let me tell you a couple rules." CJ said. "One, don't ask too many questions. Two, it's not like a prove yourself or anything like that. And three, just be yourself."
"Be myself." Lincoln said. "I can definitely do that."
"Works for me." CJ said. A few moments have passed and Lincoln broke the silence.
"I know the first rule was not to ask so many questions, but out of curiosity, what's our assignment?" He asked. "Are we going up against somebody?"
"The Dark Phoenix." CJ said. "Ever heard of them?"
"I think I have." Lincoln said. "Are they some kind of Mafia?
"They're more than just a Mafia." CJ said, handing over a tablet to the boy, but not before pulling up a folder filled with information and photos, and Lincoln examined them. "The Dark Phoenix are the most notorious terrorist organization in the world, headed by former Armyman Mark James Hollenback, Professor Ignius Tyron, Doctor Otomo Kamikazi and Former scientist of Black Mesa Wallace Breen."
"What is their objective?" Lincoln asked.
"World Domination." CJ said. "They've been collecting old fragments of Shadow-Kaijin artifacts from around the world, dating back thousands of years way before the Great Pharoah was born."
"Kaijin... You mean the humanoid monsters." Lincoln asked.
"Technically speaking, yes." CJ explained. "The Kaijin are fierce monster-like tokusatsu warriors who come to earth to enslave the human race. The Dark Phoenix, however, have managed to capture and bring these monsters into our world and use them as soldiers to conquer the world."
"That's impossible." Lincoln said. "How are they gonna pull that off."
"With this guy's work." CJ said, clicking one of the keys on the tablet, revealing a photo of a man with black-grayish hair, with a beard as the same color. He wore dark sunglasses to hide his eyes. Lincoln was a bit surprised seeing the man in the picture, as if he knew him.
"Franz Hopper." Lincoln said. "I've heard about him from my six year-old sister Lisa." Lincoln said. "Lisa's a child prodegy, a science geek. She's completely obsessed with this guy."
"What did she tell you about him?" CJ asked.
"Only from the pictures I saw in Lisa's room, he was a teacher and that he was part of some group, and he was being hunted down for condoning illegal activities." Lincoln said.
"Years ago, Franz Hopper, who was known as Waldo Schaeffer, was part of an international top secret project filled with scientists in the fields of computing and quantum mechanics." CJ said.
"Project Carthage." Lincoln said. "Lisa told me about that too, that it was said to transport people from all around the world into a digital universe, and disrupt enemy communications."
"Well, that was a lie." CJ said.
"A Lie?" Lincoln asked.
"The disrupting enemy communications thing was a lie." CJ said. "Transporting people into the digital universe was the first step. The true purpose of Project Carthage was to open a gateway across the multiverse."
"Different Dimensions." Lincoln said.
"That's right." CJ said. "Franz Hopper thought they would use Carthage to help humanity move on in case our world ever ended, but he learned that the group, who were the predecessors of the Dark Phoenix, were planning to use it for benefit themselves and use it for world domination. The Phoenix killed all those who knew of it existance, except for a few who are alive today."
"That's horrible." Lincoln said.
"You wanna know what's ironic?" CJ asked. "They don't realize that the monsters they want to control, will destroy them in the end." Luckly for Lincoln, he was able to take this in well.
"You said there were a few who are still alive." Lincoln said. "Who else was involved?"
"There's a small list." CJ said. "Issac Kleiner, Eli Vance, ...and Professor Moshimo, he was part of it too, but his place was raided last year, so he's either kidnapped or dead. That's pretty much it."
"Man, Lisa would flip out if she ever saw this." Lincoln said, sliding the photos on the tablet to the side to see the next ones. "To be honest with ya, I've never been one for conspiracies and all but-" The next photo that came up was of the professor. But next to him, was a little girl with pink hair, roughly around seven years old. Lincoln's heart stopped as he saw the picture. He was looking right at the girl in the photo.
"That girl..." He said, as if he knew her.
"Hmmm?" CJ asked.
"Who's this girl in the photo?" Lincoln asked, pointing to the girl with pink hair.
"Aelita Schaeffer." CJ said. "The professor's daughter. She disappeared along with him years ago."
"No she didn't." Lincoln said. CJ looked at him with a surprised look.
"What?" CJ asked.
"I've seen her before!" Lincoln said. "Twice."
"You have?" CJ asked almost in disbelief. "When?"
"It was... almost two months ago." Lincoln said. "I remember now. I was walking past Flip's Food and Fuel one day, and then I heard Flip screaming. I turned to see the girl running out with a bag of groceries. She ran right past me. I saw her face. She looked scared to death. Flip told me that she was short on money and took the snacks she was buying. Then I saw her later again during my patrol."
"When was that?" CJ asked.
"The second time was a while later around 10:30pm. Saturday, I'm sure of it." Lincoln said. "I usually patrol between eight and eleven. Lori was complaining that some girl was raiding the Santiago's trash one night and I went to investigate. That night I saw the girl being jumped and tossed around by some gang. I intervined and stopped them. I offered to take her to the hospital, but she refused, saying that she had to get out of town. So I took her to the train station. She called me a hero, and that was the last time I ever saw her." CJ began thinking, but he caught a quick glimpse at the photo. At that moment, something clicked in his head.
"Let me see real quick." CJ said, as Lincoln handed him back the tablet.
"Ok, but shouldn't you be driving though?" Lincoln asked.
"Hold on a second." CJ said as he pressed a button on the wheel, engaging the auto-pilot.
-AUTO-PILOT ACTIVATED-
"Wow..." Lincoln said a bit impressed. He handed the tablet to CJ, who looked at the photo of Franz Hopper and Aelita carefully. He remembered Sonic talking about a girl he was looking for, some was also known as Aelita. He even caught a glimpse at the photo Sonic gave Magnusson. He even mentioned she was a student at Kadic Academy. The girl in this photo and the one in that photo were the the same person!
"Now I remember." CJ said. "A colleague we just recruited said that she was alive and wanted us to find her."
"And you just remembered?" Lincoln asked.
"Yeah, I didn't get the full details." CJ said. "You sure you saw her?"
"I'm positive." Lincoln said.
"You said the first time you spotted her was two months ago?" CJ asked. "What day was that?"
"It was April 2nd." Lincoln said. "I remember that day, it was the day after Luan's Prankpocalypse."
"Prankpocalypse?" CJ asked.
"Yeah, Luan's an aspiring comedian." Lincoln said. "She loves April Fools, and she does everything she can to prank the family beyond our greatest nightmares. She got some stunt people posing as us and... I don't wanna talk about it."
"Alright, let me check the security footage." CJ said as he placed the tablet on the radio player. "Shelia, check the security footage at Flip's Food and Fuel marking back April 2nd."
"Accessing security footage." Shelia spoke.
"Shelia?" Lincoln asked.
"Someone at SPD has a grandmother named Shelia, acts as a designated driver for her relatives." CJ said. The screen then pulled up, revealing the footage at the Flip's Food and Fuel. There it was showing Flip, the elderly man with a short stature, with gray hair and mustache, with a bald spot on the top of his head, wearing a red shirt, brown pants and black shoes behind his desk, twiddling his fingers, scratching his crotch, which was found revolting by the viewers. Then he clicked the cash register open and took some money out, placing it in his pockets. Lincoln gasped at this.
"What?!" Lincoln asked. "Did he just steal from the cash register?! That is so uncool!"
"Do you want me to send this to the police?" CJ asked.
"Nah, he got mugged by some parents who he cheated on for money." Lincoln said.
"That's Karma." CJ said. The footage kept playing. Coming from the doorway was a girl, wearing a dark purple coat, and her hair was short and pink.
"There is she." Lincoln said, pointing at the girl. CJ paused the footage, then zoomed in on the girl.
"Enhance image." CJ said, enhancing the image to be more clearer. It was her. It was definitely Aelita Hopper Schaeffer, just as Lincoln said.
"It's her." CJ said. "But she's still young, probably around 13 or 14. How is that even possible?"
"Maybe she has growth hormone deficiency?" Lincoln said. "Maybe her growth stunted sometime and she passed off as a little girl?" CJ looked at the boy.
"You got that from Lisa too?" CJ asked.
"No, last Halloween Lucy made us all watch Orphan, where the little girl the family adopted was actually 33 year-old murderer." Lincoln said.
"Is there anything your sisters don't do?" CJ asked.
"No, but to be honest, I love that about them." Lincoln said. CJ smiled then focused back on the photo.
"Still, I can't believe it's actually her." CJ said.
"And she's still around my age or a year older." Lincoln said. "How is she still young? She has to be at least 24 or something." CJ began to think.
"She was twelve when she disappeared..." CJ said. "Wait a second. Back at the hometown Franz Hopper lived at, there was an old factory in the Lake, and the SPD found a supercomputer. Issac comfirmed that Franz Hopper tried to recreate his own version of the project after he tried to destroy the real one. His version would allow him to visit the digital dimension as a safe haven. Shelia, play the last Video Diary of Franz Hopper's research!"
"Video found. Now playing video." Shelia spoke as the tablet began to play a video, which displayed Franz Hopper in some sort of chair near computer keyboards. The area looked underground.
"I built the Supercomputer as a safe haven for my research and an access point for me and Aelita to go to the Digital Dimension of Lyoko, a hub world I created based on Carthage's original design. It will allow us to escape my enemies. The scanners and the virtualization programs are ready. In a few hours, I will go to Lyoko with Aelita. She holds the keys to it all. Together we are the masters of Lyoko. She and I will be together, forever."
The video ends there.
"Is it just me... or does he sound a little... Loco in the coco?" Lincoln asked.
"One of the video diaries spoke of him using some kind of Return to the Past sequence to go back in time to relive past events." CJ said. "It may have deteriated his mental health. He must've used the Supercomputer to transport himself and Aelita to this... Lyoko world in the Digital Dimension. But the computer was shut down when we found it, so it may have froze them in a hypersleep status."
"But how did she escape?" Lincoln asked.
"Maybe someone turned on the computer before we found it." CJ said. "Maybe that's how she got out. And maybe Franz didn't survive the process. There was a school that Franz Hopper worked at. Shelia, check the school records of the hometown Franz used to live in."
"Checking School Records." Shelia spoke, displaying a large list of students at the town's school Kadic Academy. CJ typed in several names, including the name Aelita, and luckly, he found a match.
"Here she is." CJ said pulling up the file, which displayed Aelita and the information from the school's archives.
"Well I'll be damned." CJ said. "No wonder why we couldn't piece it together. She attended Kadic Academy under the name Aelita Stones, passing off as a cousin of fellow student Odd Della Robbia. They shared the same classes with three other students, Jeremie Belpois, Ulrich Stern, and Yumi Ishiyama." Lincoln looked at the name of the school, and recognized it.
"Kadic Academy..." Lincoln said. "Wait a second, that's where that School shooting took place."
"School shooting?" CJ asked.
"Yeah, last year some terrorists wearing weird suits showed up at the school and began shooting everywhere. Students, teachers, everybody died in that carnage." Lincoln said. CJ then searched the web, and found an article containing information regarding the school shooting at Kadic Academy. There were pictures of some dead students and teachers, and part of the school destroyed. A newspaper article was also shown.
HEADLINE: TERROR STRIKES KADIC
According to the Archives, the school was attacked by a group of mercenaries involved in a terrorist organization. Many students and teachers died from the attack, including four brave students; Jeremie Belpois, Ulrich Stern, Odd Della Robbia, and Yumi Ishiyama. One student, Aelita Stones, is still unaccounted for, but it is most likely she died in the explosion that killed many students in the library.
Lincoln only sighed as he saw the photos. There was also a video of one of the classmates filming an video for the start of the school year, where the gunshots were heard and the camera was dropped as several students ran for their lives and some strange suited soldiers moved.
"Wait, Freeze That Image!" CJ said, and the footage stopped, displaying one of the soldiers. CJ zoomed in and looked at the soldier, and noticed a strange symbol on it. It was the words HF, with three hydra heads in the back.
"Oh my god." CJ said.
"Was it the Dark Phoenix?" Lincoln asked.
"Worse... It's Hydra Force." CJ said.
"Hydra Force?" Lincoln asked.
"The Dark Phoenix's most high ranked operatives." CJ said. "Led by Drex Archo." CJ then brought up a photo of Drex Archo, the man in the shades, long drench coat, and the metallic arm on his right. "Once a militia soldier, he was cast out after he lost his arm in battle. Drove him psychologically insane. He became the leader of Hydra Force a couple years ago. His team were also the ones who attacked the factory when we were investigating it. They were probably looking for the Supercomputer."
"And they attacked to school for Franz Hopper's files?" Lincoln asked. "He worked there as a teacher back then, he wouldn't hide stuff at a school."
"I don't think they were just after files at the school Lincoln." CJ said. "They were after the girl."
"I get that they're desparate, but why are they going after the girl?" Lincoln asked.
"They think she could know something about Franz Hopper's work." CJ said. "She is his daughter."
"But Franz Hopper was a secretive man, there's no way he could trust his own daughter with this kind of stuff." Lincoln said. "Would he?"
"Maybe he did, or she found out when she was set free." CJ said.
"Poor girl." Lincoln said. "So not only does she lose everyone she loves, she's now on the run, she's homeless, and worse..." The boy couldn't help but wonder, thinking the girl was still out there alone, hurt, and her whole life taken away by some creeps. His hands clenched, but he kept his cool.
"Makes you mad?" CJ asked.
"Yeah." Lincoln said. "If I had known..."
"Even if you did, if you helped her, they would've come for you too." CJ said.
"But I know how to fight, and so does my sisters." Lincoln said. "Wish I could've done more..."
"Well now we can." CJ said. "Do you remember where she was headed?"
"I told her the farthest the train can go was Elmore, which is about more than 85 miles from here." Lincoln said.
"Then we'll search there." CJ said. "Hopefully she's still there. We'll get her into safe hands. Sonic will also be pleased to know this as well."
"Sonic?" Lincoln asked. His eyes then widened. Was CJ talking about Sonic the Hedgehog? "Wait... Sonic the Hedgehog is working with the SPD?"
"Actually, he's working with us, and you'll get a chance to see him in action." CJ answered with a smile. The white haired boy's mouth dropped open. He has heard about Sonic the Hedgehog and his heroic accomplishments in the past. And now he was goin to work with him? Lincoln tried his best to keep himself from fanboying.
"Ok, this day just got even better." Lincoln said.
"Agent Miyamoto come in! Do you read me?" The voice from the radio spoke. CJ clicked the buttons on the dashboard, revealing Magnusson and Dr. Kleiner.
"Copy Magnusson, and Kleiner." CJ said.
"Whassup?" Lincoln asked.
"Who's the boy?" Dr. Kleiner asked.
"He's my partner." CJ said.
"Yeah, Lincoln Loud reporting for duty Sir." The boy said giving a salute.
"Listen, we got word that Hydra Force has been on the move." Magnusson said.
"Hydra Force?" Lincoln asked.
"Where are they?" CJ asked.
"In Elmore." Magnusson said.
"Elmore?" Lincoln and CJ asked at the same time.
"We have even more news." Kleiner said. "We have vital information regarding Franz Hopper. There was reports of a young girl that looks just like Franz Hopper's daughter."
"That is Hopper's daughter." Lincoln said.
"Yes, and it appears Hydra Force is pursuing her." Magnusson said.
"How did Hydra Force know where to find her?" Lincoln asked.
"Apparently someone tipped them off about the girl's location." Magnusson said. "We were able to intercept the message sent to them by a anonymous tipper."
"Put in on speaker." CJ said. Magnusson gave a nod and Issac played the message.
"This is to the Hydra Force. I have vital information regarding a fugitive that you are searching for. The girl's location is in a blue house owned by the Watterson family, right next to a big purple in the town of Elmore. The address is 1026 York Street-"
As the audio stopped, CJ and Lincoln were a bit surprised, not only because of the information that was given, but how the voice sounded so distorted and metallic.
"Ok that was creepy." Lincoln said.
"Sounds like it was edited to make it sound anonymous." CJ said. "Kleiner, can you see if you can edit the audio to find out the real voice."
"Already on it." Issac spoke as he began to do some typing on a computer. "Just gotta invert the sound, then take out the distortion, re-adjust the tune... Hmmm, it looks like some of the audio was cut at the end too. Restoring the file... and there." The audio played again.
"This is to the Hydra Force. I have vital information regarding a fugitive that you are searching for. The girl's location is in a blue house owned by the Watterson family, right next to a big purple in the town of Elmore. The address is 1026 York Street."
"Hey why is the light off in here?"
"DAD, GET OUT OF MY ROOM!"
CJ and Lincoln were now even more surprised, and yet confused.
"It sounds like... a little girl?" Lincoln asked.
"And sounds way too intellegent." CJ said. "Magnusson, can you intercept Hydra Force's movements?"
"We'll do what we can." Magnusson said. "Head to Elmore and find that girl."
"She may also have information regarding Franz Hopper's work." Kleiner said. "We can use that against the Green Phoenix."
"Alright, You guys let Sonic know that we're heading there now, and we'll meet him and his candidates there." CJ said.
"Alright, in the meantime, you also seek out one of our oldest friends." Magnusson said. "He's also residing in Elmore as well. And he can help you."
"Who?" CJ asked.
"He's known as... The Yeti." Magnusson said. CJ's eyes widened in surprise and he gave a smile.
"Alright." CJ said. "We'll go find him too. Inform Sonic right away."
"Copy that." Magnusson said. "Good luck Jamiko." As the radio turned off, Lincoln looked back at CJ.
"Who's the Yeti?" Lincoln asked.
"You'll see." CJ said with a wink as they continued onward.
Meanwhile... 30 Miles Outside of Elmore
Sonic was tapping his foot impatiently, as if he was expecting someone. And he was. He was able to send a message to two locations, though he hoped the first message he sent managed to get out.
"I'm waiting..." Sonic said. Then, there was a sudden sound coming from the sky. Lifting his head up, he saw a small dot that got closer and closer. He saw that it was a starship moving toward his location. As it got closer, it slowed down, and slowly decended to the ground. The cockpit's door opened up from the top. From inside, out jumped a yellow looking guy doing a sommersault, and made a perfect landing. It was Ratchet, and he was wearing a Commando helmet, and a nice yellow Commando suit as well. On his back was a small metal backpack. Though it wasn't actually a backpack. It was actually Clank. For his small size, he's pretty light to carry, so Ratchet attaches him to his back like a backpack. It may look embarrassing for Clank, but it's the best way for him to keep up. And it saves him from running.
"Am I not too late?" The lombax asked.
"Actually, you're a bit early." Sonic said. The lombax gave a smile.
"Good to see you again Sonic." He spoke, shaking the hedgehog's hand.
"You too Ratchet." Sonic said.
"Ahem." A robotic voice spoke.
"And good to see you too Clank." Sonic said, with Ratchet turning himself so Sonic could see the robot, who then jumped off his back.
"Nice to meet you again Sonic." Clank said. "I hope you are staying out of trouble."
"As always." Sonic said. "Sort of... I hope you're keeping Ratchet in check."
"Yeah, he has." Ratchet said. "So, how long has it been? A month or something?"
"A month?" Sonic said. "It's been almost a year since I've seen you guys. So how's Bogon?"
"Pretty good, though Megapolis is a bit noisy in the morning." Ratchet said. "It's like Metropolis all over again."
"Better than living in a garage?" Sonic asked.
"Well to tell you the truth, the garage is actually more quiet." Ratchet said.
"I can believe that." Sonic said. "But what about you Clank?"
"Funny you should mention." Clank said. "I've recently became a star in a Holovision show. It is called Secret Agent Clank."
"Wait, that was really you?" Sonic asked.
"You've seen it?" Ratchet asked.
"Yeah, Tails managed to adapt our Galaxy Receiver to play TV shows." Sonic said.
"How did you manage to do that?" Ratchet asked.
"We added some antennaes on the Receiver." Sonic said. "By the way Rat, you look great as a chauffeur." The lombax rolled his eyes.
"Yeah... thanks." He said. "So anyway, why'd you call us here?"
"It's a long story." Sonic said. "I'll explain it when the others get here."
"Others?" Ratchet asked.
"Yeah, I was asked to help some guys save the world, and I'm gonna need all the help I can get." Sonic said.
"So you brought us all the way out to this planet to help you save it?" Ratchet asked.
"Better than being a chauffeur." Sonic said.
"And you expected us to help?" Ratchet asked.
"Dude, you owe me one, remember?" Sonic asked.
"He does have a point Ratchet." Clank said. "After all, you heard what Elaris said. There has been no sign of any threat to our galaxy or in the Bogon galacy for a while. Perhaps this is the perfect opportunity to help Sonic. And like he said, we do owe him for helping us."
"Like we're gonna say no?" Ratchet asked.
"Sorry, I... forgot who I was dealing with." Sonic joked, as the lombax gave a sigh and a smile.
"Well, we do have nothing better to do, so ok." Ratchet said. "So, where are the others?" Sonic turned his head, hearing the sound of a vehicle closing in.
"Right about... now." Sonic said, as a vehicle came up, slowing down and coming to a full stop in front of the three. The car nice Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Minivan, with combat armor, and the Freedom League symbol on the side the middle passenger car doors. As the motor was turned off. The driver door opened up, with the sound of someone coming out, and closing the door.
"If I'm being honest right now, I can't believe the great Sonic the Hedgehog needs our help." He said, revealing to be Jak, giving a smile as he saw the hedgehog.
"Nice to see you too Jak." Sonic said, and then looked around. "Where's Daxter?" The passenger door flung right open, revealing Daxter, who fell out of the seat and onto the ground. Luckily, the little guy got to his feet in a jiffy.
"Hello Blue Blur, and fellow peeps and cronies!" The ottsel said. "The Daxternator is back!" Yep, it was Daxter all right.
"Good to see you as well Dax." Sonic said. "Thanks again guys, for coming all this way out here."
"And you'll thank us a lot more." Jak said. "We got what your ordered."
"And it better be worth it." Daxter said. "Really took us a lot of work to do it."
"Let me guess, you got him lunch?" Ratchet asked.
"No, I asked them to pick someone up for me." Sonic said. "These guys were close to the area so I asked them to pick him up."
"And it was a hassle too." Daxter said.
"You worry too much Dax." Jak said. "And yes, we got him. Though, you should've told us what he was capable."
"I said that he would be interesting." Sonic said.
"And he was." Jak said. "But the heads up would've helped."
"I wonder who they picked up." Ratchet said.
"Perhaps somebody important." Clank said.
"Just tell me you got him in one piece." Sonic said.
"Sure did." Jak said. "Wasn't that hard to get him."
"Easy for you to say!" Daxter said. "The kid was like a morphing psycho!"
"Just don't get startled when we open the door." Jak said. "He might jump."
"Jump?" Sonic asked. "What did you do? Tie him up?"
"No, we knocked him out." Jak said.
"What did you use on him?" Ratchet asked.
"We drugged his smoothie... and then we tazed him a few times." Jak said, opening the van's side door, revealing an unconcious 16 or 17 year-old on the floor of the van, almost drooling. The boy had shaggy brown hair, his skin was pale, but very bright in color. Despite his skinny appearance, there is lot of muscle definition. He wore a white zipped up vest with bright green lining on the edges, with the sleeves reaching the boy's elbows. Engraved on the chest area was the number 10. Underneath the vest was a green shirt with black lining in the center reaching to his shoulders. His pants were brown with cargo pockets, and his shoes were green and white. On his left hand was a strange white and black watch with green details upon it. He slowly began to open his eyes, revealing bright green pupils.
This was Ben Tennsyon, a young teen hero who is very known for being the keeper and wielder of the Omnitrix, the watch that was around his wrist. The device, created by Azmuth, a Galvin that possessed great knowledge and intelligence allowed it's wielder to transform into multiple different aliens. When Ben was ten years old, he found the Omnitrix while he was on a road trip with his cousin Gwen Tennyson, a young girl who has magical abilities, and his grandfather Max Tennyson, who is actually a senior member of the Plumbers, which were intergalactic policemen. When it attached itself to his hand, Ben learned that it can transform him into different aliens. Since then, he decided to use his new abilities to protect the planet from villainous aliens from different galaxies, such as Vilgax, the Chimera Sui Generis alien warlord, and the Hybreed, aliens who were dying out.
When the boy opened his eyes, he suddenly let out a yelp, realizing that he wasn't where he thought he was. The last thing he remembered was two guys asking him to go with them for an important matter, only resulting to him suddenly passing out when he refused. He could've sworn that he was also fighting them when they attacked. Waking up, he rolled over and fell out of the van.
"Ouch." Ratchet said. The teenager quickly got back on his feet, looking around quickly, not noticing the blue hedgehog, lombax, and or the robot right in front of him. Turning to his right, he saw Jak, who gave a snerky wave, as did Daxter.
"You!" The boy said.
"You!" Daxter said back.
"What the what was that all about?!" He asked.
"We told you to come with us." Jak said.
"And I said I wasn't interested!" The boy said.
"You left us no choice." Daxter said. "And I told ya Jak doesn't take no for an answer."
"That didn't give you the right to drug me!" The boy said. "What did you put in my smoothie?"
"Just something to put you to sleep on the way here." Jak said.
"Yeah, and you left a little drool on our van." Daxter said, pointing to small puddle of drool on the floor of the van.
"Well, you should've told me what you wanted from me!" The boy said.
"We were gonna tell you on the way if you agreed." Jak said.
"Doesn't work like that." He said. "You give the reason before you ask someone for their assistance. Now who sent you? Was it Vilgax? Dr. Animo? Hex? Steam Smythey... actually I haven't seen him in years?" Behind him, Sonic only rolled his eyes, not wanting to wait until the boy realized he was right behind him.
"Ben." Sonic spoke. Hearing his name, the boy quickly turned around, then showed a face of surprise, staring at the blue blur. Shifting his whole body to stare directly at the hedgehog, there was a few moments of silence.
"Sonic the Hedgehog." Ben spoke. "You have a lot of nerve bringing me all the way out here." The blue hedgehog gave a smirk and a shrug. The boy smiled.
"Come here you." He said as the two hugged it out, both giving chuckles of joy. Yes, these two know each other quite well, much longer than the others. About six years ago, Sonic had a run in with Ben Tennyson when the latter was around eleven, almost a whole year after he found the Omnitrix. During that time, Eggman and Dr. Animo, a scientist who had the power to talk to animals, tried to turn animals into ferocious robots to take over the world. Luckily, Sonic and Ben managed to stop them, forming a strong friendship along the way. They also been in contact since then. But Ben knew that Sonic loved to surprise him whenever they would meet up.
"It's good to see you again Ben." Sonic said.
"Good?" Ben asked. "It's great to see you. Man, have you grown."
"Me?" Sonic asked. "Look at you, you're taller than I am. Then again, I'm just an anthropomorphic hedgehog, but what are you gonna do?"
"Still, it's great to see you again." Ben said, then turned back to Jak. "Why didn't you tell me he sent you?"
"I was going to." Jak said. "But again, you refused."
"Again, always give details when you ask someone to join you." Ben said. Ratchet looked at the boy, as did Clank.
"Ratchet, does he look familiar?" Clank asked. "I could've sworn I saw him on the Galactic News Channel." The lombax only stared at the boy, examining him.
"Wait a second." Ratchet said, getting the boy's attention. "Brown hair, green eyes, the number 10, Galvin watch." The lombax's eyes widened up with a gasp.
"Are you Max Tennyson's grandson?" Ratchet asked.
"Yeah... yes, I am." Ben said, a bit surprised himself. Ratchet smiled.
"Kirby!" Ratchet said, confusing Sonic, Jak, and Daxter.
"It's Ben, actually." The boy said. "Ben Kirby Tennyson."
"Whatever, You're Ben Tennyson!" Ratchet said. "The grandson of Max Tennyson!"
"Wait, you know my grandpa?" Ben asked.
"Well duh!" Ratchet said. "We heard about you guys, you're both the talk of the Solana Galaxy! How you use that Galvin watch and transform into different alien creatures, and that your grandfather is the member of the Plumbers, The Intergalactic law-inforcement organization in the entire universe! Not even the Galactic Rangers are as good as you guys! He was such a legend! Oh, by the way, I'm so sorry for the loss by the way. We would've attended his funeral, but I had to help Grimm with some stuff back on Veldin." Hearing that brought more confusion to the other guys.
"What?" Sonic asked.
"Uhh, my grandpa isn't dead." Ben said.
"Oh." Ratchet said. "Could've sworn that happened."
"Perhaps that was one of the other senior members of the organization." Clank said. "My databanks show that he's alive and well."
"Huh..." Ratchet said. "Still, he was such a phenominon back in the day. It's nice to see his bloodline's living up to his legacy."
"Comes with the territory." Ben said.
"Wait a second." Sonic said. "Your middle name is Kirby?"
"Yeah, Mom called me that when I was four or five or something." Ben said. "But hey, why did you guys bring me here?"
"Cuz, we need your help Ben." Sonic said. "The world's in danger again."
"What's the problem?" Ben asked.
"You heard of the Dark Phoenix?" Sonic asked.
"The Dark Phoenix?" Ratchet and Clank both asked in unison.
"The Dark Phoenix?" Jak asked. "What's that?"
"I've heard about those guys." Ben said. "They're some kind of terrorist group who are using kaijin monsters to do their bidding."
"The S.P.D. has asked me to help them fight against the Dark Phoenix, but I can't do it alone." Sonic said.
"The S.P.D?" Ben asked. "You mean the Space Police Delta?"
"The Space Police Delta?" Ratchet asked.
"Hmmm... according to my data records, the Space Police Delta are one of the High ranking Peace Keeping Organization in the multiverse. Well connected with the Plumbers and Galactic Rangers." Clank said.
"Well, what does this have to do with us?" Ratchet asked.
"What if I told you guys we're putting a team together?" Sonic asked.
"A team?" Ben asked.
"A team?" Ratchet and Clank asked.
"A team?" Jak and Daxter asked.
"They need a team to help stop the Dark Phoenix." Sonic said. "They asked me, and now we're getting a team formed. Plus, the ones they selected were a bunch of space men in futuristic tights. You guys were the ones I had in mind."
"Wow..." Ben said. "Well thanks for thinking of us."
"But just remember, we're in the big leagues here." Sonic said. "Which means we need to follow orders ...if we have to."
"Well, that's not new." Ben said. "Still, I'm pumped. Of course I'm in."
"Better than doing nothing back in Bogon." Ratchet said. "I'm in. Clank?"
"A most interesting proposal." Clank said. "You can include me as well."
"To be honest, I don't like following orders, but if you're part of the team, we're in." Jak said.
"We?" Daxter asked.
"Aww c'mon Dax." Jak said. "Would you rather be back in Haven City?"
"Alright, I'm in too." Daxter said. "Only because you won't last a second without me."
"Then it's settled." Ben said. "What a dream team we are." The blue hedgehog gave a smile. But then a ringing came from his pocket. He reached in and pulled out his cellphone. He then answered.
"Hello?" Sonic asked.
"Sonic the Hedgehog, it's Magnusson." Magnusson's voice spoke over the phone.
"Hey Magnusson, what's up?" Sonic asked.
"I've just spoken with Agent Miyamoto." Magnusson said. "Where are you?"
"Just picked up my crew." Sonic said. "Tell CJ that we'll meet with him at the closest town."
"Good, because we got a situation." Magnusson said.
"A situation?" Sonic said. "What situation?" The boys leaned in a bit to hear what the guy on the phone was saying.
"The Dark Phoenix has just sent their top team the Hydra Force into action." Magnusson said.
"Hydra Force?" Sonic asked.
"A group of human mercenaries who hunt down and capture monsters." Magnusson said. "They just attacked and are after one of our own."
"Really?" Sonic asked. "Where is this Hydra Force now?"
"They're in Elmore." Magnusson said. Sonic froze in place, hearing those words.
"Elmore?" Sonic asked. "Where was their last location?"
"On York Street." Magnusson said. Sonic's eyes widened with shock. He turned to the direction that leads to Elmore. "Sonic, are you there?"
"Yeah, I'm still here." Sonic said. "Are there any casualties?"
"Besides some on the street injured, no one is dead." Magnusson said, allowing Sonic to give a sigh of relief. "Head straight for Elmore. Agent Miyamoto and his ally will meet you there."
"Copy." Sonic said as he hung up, and he lowered his head. "Gumball..."
"Hey, you alright?" Ben said, getting the hedgehog's attention.
"Yeah, command wants us to head to Elmore." Sonic said. "It's a couple miles from here."
"What's the sitch?" Daxter asked. The boys looked right back at him. "What?"
"Don't say that." Ben said.
"What? Sitch?" Daxter asked.
"The whole quote." Ben said. "That's Kim Possible's line."
"Well actually her line is that she can do anything." Sonic said.
"Still, the quote he said is also her other line." Ben said. "Heroes have more than just one line."
"Alright, sorry." Daxter said.
"Well then, what is our objective then?" Clank asked.
"I'll explain when we get there." Sonic said. "CJ will meet up with us."
"Who's CJ?" Ben asked.
"S.P.D's top agent, and co-founder of the team." Sonic said. "He and his candidate's going to meet us back in Elmore."
"Who's the lucky candidate?" Ratchet asked.
"I dunno, some kid from Great Lakes City, Michigan." Sonic said. "Anyway, we better head for town."
"Then let's get going." Jak said as he headed for the driver door. As he got into the driver's seat, Ben got into the passenger's seat, much to Daxter's irritation, while Sonic, Ratchet, and Clank hopped into the backseats, closing the door behind them. In an instant, Jak started the van, and it took off, heading straight for Elmore, all of them unaware that the carnage was happening already.
Welcome to the Amazing Town of Elmore!
That's what the sign said when they passed it, just arriving in town over the hill. The neighborhood was nice and pretty, with unique characters were just minding their own business, some talking to each other, unaware of the van passing by.
"We're just entering Elmore." Sonic said. The boys looked out the window to see a nice neighborhood.
"Wow, it looks settling." Ben said.
"Don't be deceived by the looks." Sonic said. "This town can get pretty interesting."
"How interesting?" Ben asked.
"Ever seen a T-Rex? Sonic asked. "A walking Banana? A Ghost? A Whatchamocallit?"
"Uhhh... No." Ben said.
"Well this place has it all." Sonic said. "Came here almost two years ago. Met a nice family."
"Is that why you had that look on your face earlier?" Jak asked.
"Yeah." Sonic said. "They live on the street where these Hydra guys attacked. I just hope they're alright."
"Clank, can you get information on what we're up against?" Ratchet asked.
"I'm sure I can." Clank said. "Accessing the planet's satelite, checking for records of unknown origin and wanted criminals..." He began speaking as his eyes glowed and his antennae began blinking.
"How long does it take for him to get all that?" Ben asked.
"Got it." Clank said, to everyone's surprise.
"Pretty quick." Ratchet said, as Clank then projected an image of the Dark Phoenix symbol and several photos of their actions.
"According to the hidden archives, the Dark Phoenix are to be said one of the most anonymous and secretive terrorist organizations in the entire world." Clank began.
"Reports has claimed that the organization has been using artifacts and strange technology completely foreign to this planet. The Hydra Force are one of the most vicious mercenaries of the organization, ranked right at the top. They are considered specialized and dangerous."
"So, we're going up against humans..." Daxter said. "Shouldn't be a problem."
"Don't get your hopes up Dax." Jak said. "Look..." Pointing to the front, the guys looked out to see York Street, almost completely in ruins. Some fences ripped up, some bullet marks on some of the houses, and cars completely wrecked.
"Wow..." Ben said. "They literally don't have any respect for public property." Sonic turned his head, seeing something that made his eyes widened.
"Jak, Stop the Van!" Sonic said. With that said, Jak slowed the van down to a stop, as Sonic opened the side door, quickly stepping out. Right before him was all that was left of the Watterson's home. The house was complete was gone, burnt and in ashes, with the lower level a bit intact. He rushed forward toward the house.
"Sonic, wait up!" Ben called as he followed the hedgehog inside, as Ratchet and Clank looked around, as Jak and Daxter scanned the area. They saw the next house, seeing a pair of medics carrying Mr. Robinson on a stretcher toward the Ambulance. The duo approached them.
"Hey, what happened here?" Jak asked.
"Old guy got shot." The first medic said.
"I was shot!" Mr. Robinson shouted. "Some crazy guys in these trucks shot everything in their path! They destroyed my car! What happened to my car!"
"Your car's trashed sir." The second medic said. Mr. Robinson only screamed in anger, but then he moaned in pain.
"Take it easy, we're taking you to the hospital." The medic said again.
"No, I wanna see my car!" Mr. Robinson shouted. "Woman! Help Me!" Mrs. Robinson only hissed as she helped her husband to the ambulance.
"What an jerk." Daxter said.
"You're telling me." Jak said. Sonic and Ben rushed into what was left of the house, with Ratchet following behind. The blue hedgehog looked around the living room, or what was left of it at least. The couch was gone, and the stairway was gone too.
"Looks like the stairway is not usable." Ben said. Ratchet moved pass the stairway and saw the basement door from behind the stairs.
"I'll go check the basement." Ratchet said as he went down, and Clank using his eyes to allow them to see in the dark. Ben looked to his left and saw what was still intact. A photo of the Wattersons. With Richard, Nicole, Anais, Darwin, and Gumball holding two fingers up, teeth out, and smiling awkwardly, which was the same face he made in the school photo.
"They seem like a nice family." Ben said, remembering what Sonic said about them being a nice family. Sonic was not actually listening. He was still trying to take in what he was seeing. He was praying the Wattersons were alright. The first time he met them was when he faced off against Eggman, who unleashed Chaos into the world after destroying the Master Emerald. Chaos was an entity who was driven mad by the echidnas who wanted the Chaos Emerald's power, and ended up mortally wounding it's Chao ad Tikal, it's only friend. The beast is powered by the Chaos Emeralds, and with all seven, it'd be invincible. Gumball and Darwin helped Sonic and Tails search for the Chaos Emeralds, only for them to be stolen by Eggman, who then kidnapped Amy Rose, taking their fight to the Egg Carrier, Eggman's flying fortress. With additional help from the Wattersons, Knuckles, and some help from Big the Cat. They managed to defeat Eggman, but Chaos betrays Eggman and used the Chaos Emeralds to become Perfect Chaos, and nearly flooded Station Square in Cincinnati, the city the Egg Carrier crash landed near. But Gumball managed to find the last Chaos Emerald and give it to Sonic, allowing him to become Super Sonic, and defeat Chaos once and for all. Diminished of it's anger, Chaos moved on into the Afterlife, and Sonic and his friends became close friends to the Wattersons, making a promise to visit them again soon. The memories of his adventure with them brought a smile. But it wasn't enough to help him escape the reality. But then his foot tapped on something. Looking below, he saw a metal box, covered in soot. But it was completely unharmed. Picking it up, he opened it, seeing that it was trading cards, with the one on top displaying Sonic himself.
"Are those trading cards?" Ben asked, who looked over Sonic's shoulder.
"Yeah..." Sonic said. "Kid's been collecting them since my victory against Chaos."
"Sounds like he adores you." Ben said.
"Yeah." Sonic said. Ratchet and Clank approached from the basement doorway.
"Nobody's down there." Ratchet said. "Though there was an opening on the side of the wall. Small enough for somebody to hide." Jak and Daxter then came into the house.
"Wow... what a dump." Daxter said. "Kinda reminds me of the Slumps down in Haven."
"Find anything?" Jak asked.
"No, just a box of trading cards." Ben said.
"Why would these guys be after the Wattersons?" Sonic asked. Ben looked to his left, and noticed a closet open. He looked inside, and saw that there was some stuff on the ground. He picked one of the items up, and saw that it was a photo. He examined it.
"Hey Sonic, is this family associated with the SPD?" Ben asked, making Sonic turn his head.
"What?" He asked.
"Check it out." Ben said, revealing the photo. To Sonic's surprise, it was a photo of Nicole, who looked to be in her late teens or early twenties. That could explain the longer hair down her back. She was wearing a black and white suit, almost like the ones the soldiers he saw back at the SPD base were wearing.
"That's Nicole." Sonic said, taking the photo and looking at it.
"Was she part of the SPD?" Ben asked.
"She never said anything about it." Sonic said.
"Well, it's a secret organization." Jak said. "Maybe she kept it secret. Even from her own family."
"It's the only way one can protect the ones they love." Daxter said, who then examined the photo. "Wow, she looks hot."
"Dax." Jak said, knowing what Daxter was thinking.
"I know, I know." Dax said. "I'm not messing with the sugar when we meet her." As Ratchet looked around in the kitchen, Clank, on Ratchet's back, looked out the window.
"Ratchet, look." Clank said, getting the lombax's attention. Seeing through the window, he made a peek.
"Sonic, do you think these Hydra people are guys who look like they don't wanna be followed?" Ratchet asked.
"Why?" Sonic asked as he came into the kitchen.
"Shhh... look." Ratchet said, pointing from the window. They then saw two guys wearing black armored suits, looking around. Seeing nothing, the two men moved out from the broken fence. The boys looked with suspicion.
"C'mon, let's follow them." Sonic whispered, as the others gave a nod. The group then followed the two men over the fence, completely undetected. They passed several home yards, some in which were heavily damaged or nearly destroyed. Possibly the actions of the Dark Phoenix and their cronies. After following them across the street, they managed to track them to Elmore School, which has been closed since the start of the summer, which isn't a surprise. Passing the side of the school, they saw the Elmore Stadium, a massive area of grass that is laid out as a football field. The boys then moved to the side of the entrance, and slighly moved their heads to see the field. They saw multiple mercenaries wearing suits and armor, holding guns, and the boys saw the Hydra symbol on their trucks.
"That must be the Hydra Force..." Sonic said.
"What are they doing?!" Daxter asked in a loud voice, causing the boys to hide back a bit.
"Shhhh!" They said to the ottsel.
"Sorry..." He whispered. Leaning their heads forward to see. They saw a man move away from his doom buggie, revealing to be Drex Archo. He was gazing forward, while and his men were unaware the heroes watching silently.
"No way..." Ben said, recognizing the man. "That's Drex Archo."
"You heard of him?" Jak asked.
"He used to be in the Army." Ben said. "He was expelled after he lost his arm. They say he's mad as a hatter now a days."
"Mad as a hatter?" Ratchet asked.
"Psychologically insane." Sonic said. As the group watched unseen, Drex was waiting, until one of the militia men approached him.
"He's here..." The man said.
"Good." Drex said. "Let's not keep him and us waiting." The men stood their ground, as Drex faced forward. Suddenly, a bolt of dark lightning zoomed in and landed yards in front of them.
Before them was a strange humanoid mutant kaijin. His body was white, with his left arm completely redish-black, along with his right leg. He had a huge shoulder armor plate on his right arm, while there were spikes on his left one with a yellow eye. He carried a long blade, and a coat-like cape hung from the back of his waist.
"Who dares...?" The monster asked.
Shadowkan General Voidus / シャドウカン将軍ヴォイドス
The sight of the creature surprised Sonic and the guys.
"What the hell is that?" Daxter asked.
"That's gotta be one of those Shadowkan monsters." Sonic said.
"Shadowkan?" Jak asked, looking back at Daxter, who nodded. The monster they encountered back in the Wasteland. That was a Shadowkan too!
"Who the hell is that?" The soldier asked.
"General Voidus..." Drex said. "The field commander of the Shadowkan, and right hand man of the Shadowkan-Lord..."
"S...Shadowkan?" The supervisor asked.
"Bio-engineered mutants." Drex said. "They were once part of the SHADOW-Organization, until their leader was wiped out." The shadow-mutant looked around as he approached the militia men, giving a low growl, which startled a couple of them.
"I take it you are the Hydra Force?" Voidus asked.
"That's right." Drex said. "We want to make a collaboration."
"A collaboration you say?" Voidus said, looking around. "I heard about your Dark Phoenix... that you've been capturing some of my kind to do your dirty work. And you expect me to do the same?"
"We face a common enemy." Drex said. "And we humans have a saying. The enemy of my enemy is my friend. If you help us, we'll help you."
"And what do I get in return?" Voidus asked.
"We have some of your brothers in captivity, and we can collect a few that are still on the run for you as well." Drex said. "We'll be glad to set them free for you, in exchange for a little girl, and a blue cat." The shadow-mutant general glanced at him and at his men.
"As much as I don't like working with humans, I suppose I can lend a hand." Voidus said. "I will need my crew."
"They'll be at your disposal." Drex said. "Name them down, and we'll let them go."
"First up on the list..." Voidus spoke. "Silkoid!"
Hearing the word, the supervisor typed in the words, and looked at the information. Lifting his head up, seeing Drex giving a nod, he clicked the button, which then transported was a mutated silkworm with a snapping dragon's head for a body.
Silkoid / シルコイド
"Yo, Whassup Bitches?!" Silkoid asked. Turning his head, he saw General Voidus.
"Hey General, what's up my man?" Silkoid asked. "We back to kill some humans and kick all their asses man!" Turning his big head, he saw Drex, the supervisor, and some of the militia with them. "Oh... we not killing anybody today?"
"Nice to see you too Silkoid..." Voidus said. "I see you've been doing well in prison."
"Yeah man, it's the bomb." Silkoid said. "They all praise me in those cells. So, what's the 411 man?"
"These specimens require our help." Voidus said. "And in exchange, they will help us."
"Okay then." Silkoid said, then looked back at the militia. "You're lucky a-holes! I'll kill you all another day."
"Alright, who's next." Drex said.
"Next up... Lionizer!"
"Ok, Lionizer..." The supervisor said, pulling up the archives, displaying a shadowkan warrior with the head of a lion-like creature and a robotic body with four tails with small blades on the tips, armed with two huge toothed swords. "Ok, he's a shadowkan with a lion head, four tails. He's been locked up for bank robbing, kidnapping, murder, double murder, triple murder... Hey listen, this sounds all... crazy and all, I don't think we should be letting these-" Before he could finish, however, General Voidus, with no patience, raised his sword and slammed it into the ground, causing the rocks to push up and aim straight at the supervisor.
"Ok ok ok ok ok... I didn't say I wasn't willing, I just need a consent form." The poor guy said, as Drex only gave a glare.
"Do what he said." The man said, with the supervisor giving a whimper and nod. Clicking the button, another Shadowkan materialized, revealing Lionzer.
Lionzer / ライオンザー
"Finally... to kill some flesh." Lionzer said.
"Impressive, isn't it." Drex said, as the militia man nodded. "Next on the list."
"Reaper Robot!"
"That's right, we're getting the gang back tonight!" A robot monster spoke, armed with pulse-blasters, a mace, and massive claws. After giving a happy note when materialized, he gave a nod in thanks to the militia.
"I want to thank you all for your hospitality." Reaper Robot said. "And you, I hope you die from getting shot in the head." He gave a laugh, while the militia men looked at each other.
"Feather-Shadow!"
A crawling hybrid of a lizard, beatle, and bird emerged from a cell, emitting it's razor-sharp teeth, and claws, with needles in his mouth.
Feather-Shadow / 羽影
"SCRRREEEECH!" It's what all it was saying.
"Mecha-Neck!"
A mutant Shadowkan cyborg stepped forward, swinging his razor-sharp talons, and gave a roar with it's machine gun head.
Mecha-Neck / メカネック
"I hope you like bullets!" Mecha-Neck said.
"Gorgon!"
A flying shadow-mutant emerged from the skies, complete with acid dripping claws, stinging tentacles from out of their chests, and it stuck out a long whipping tongue.
Gorgon / ゴルゴン
"I'll tear you up in the sky!" Gorgon shouted.
"Raptor Sniper!"
A modified raptor with cyborg armor and a sniper gun on his right arm, jumped from the tall light posts.
Raptor Sniper / ラプタースナイパー
"Prepared to be Sniped!" Raptor Sniper spoke.
"Gray-Man!"
A humanoid mutant armed with a bladed-lance appeared, his head chancing, ready for battle.
Gray-Man / グレイマン
"You will know no mercy!" Gray-Man said.
"Sepultura!"
A carrion beetle-like Shadowkan made a step forward as he was being released.
Sepultura / セプルトゥラ
"Hahahaha... who's ready for a Beeting!" Sepultura laughed.
"Heliotoid!"
An insectoid-looking robot materialized, with flames and fire surrounding him.
Heliotoid / ヘリオトイド
"Get ready... to BURN!" Heliotoid shouted.
"And last... but not least... Tsuchigumo-Stinger!"
Inside a cell was a spider-like Shadow-mutant with a scorpion's tail.
"I shall eat all of YOU!" It shouted.
"Oh Hell No!" The supervisor said. "No fucking way in Hell are we using a fucking spider, no way man!"
"No, no, no." Drex said as well. "Sorry, there are limits. Try again."
"Hmmmm, you're right, too gory." Shilubara said. "Okay ...how about..."
"Behemoth!"
A giant cybernetic mutant with superhuman strength and retractable claws made his entrance.
Behemoth / ベヒーモス
"You need a bigger door!" He whined in anger.
"Ok, let me just check real quick." The supervisor said as he clicked on his laptop, showing hesitation and fear at the same time. "Ok, you're clear to go!" With a click of his button, the shadowkan all materialized behind Voidus, ready for some action.
"Ok, uh... can I go home now?" The supervisor asked.
"Just one second." Drex said, and looked at Raptor Sniper. "You, blow his head off."
"Yeeesss..." Raptor Sniper said as he aimed at the supervisor.
"Wait Wait Wait No-!" The supervisor shouted, but it was too late as Raptor Sniper shot him, reducing him to ash.
"Ooooohhhh." Sonic, Ben, Jak, and Daxter said quietly.
"Oh my..." Clank said.
"That's not pretty." Ratchet said. Sonic then took out his phone and selected the camera app. Zooming in, he got a good shot of the Shadowkan warriors.
"I'll have to show this to CJ and the SPD." Sonic said. Back with the militia and the Shadowkan, Drex glanced back at Voidus.
"I gave you what you wanted, now you must keep your end of the bargin." Drex said.
"Of course." Voidus said. "It is the least we can do for you helping us. And what is this surprise you have for us?"
"You'll know when you complete the task." Drex said. "But I must ask myself. What is it that you really want?"
"We just want a home." Voidus said, putting his sword away. "Like all sentinent beings." As the conversation came to a close, a militia soldier approached Drex, holding a phone.
"Archo, we have a call, and it seems to be the anonymous tipper." He said.
"Give me the phone." Drex spoke as he swiped it from the soldier's hand.
"A tipper?" Sonic asked.
"Clank, can you intercept the phone call?" Ratchet asked.
"Check... here goes." Clank said as he squinted his eyes and activated his echo listerners.
"Is this the Hydra Force?" The caller asked in the same distorted voice.
"Yes it is, what do you want now?" Drex asked.
"I know where the girl and the Watterson family is." The caller said. "They are at the abandoned warehouse just outside the north of town."
"Thank you." Drex said. "And I must say, it is quite a surprise someone like you is helping us. Why?"
"The Wattersons are nothing to me anymore." The caller said. "They will pay dearly for the stupidness they brought to me over the years."
"Well then, we'll do you a big favor then." Drex said.
"Just remember, you never heard from me." The caller said.
"It'll be our little secret." Drex answered, and the call disconnected. He then looked at his militia.
"Alright listen up!" Drex called out. "The Wattersons and Schaeffer's Daughter is at the abandoned warehouse out of town. We capture the blue cat boy and the girl, that's our main objective. As for the rest of the family. Kill them all. HAIL THE PHOENIX!"
"HAIL THE PHOENIX!" The soldiers spoke in salute. The men moved toward their vehicles, and Drex turned to the Shadowkan.
"You scout ahead, we will follow." Drex said. "Capture the blue cat boy and the human girl. As for the others, kill them if you can." The Shadowkan general gave a grin.
"You heard the human." Voidus said to the other Shadow-kaijin. "Today, we hunt!" The monsters gave salutes, howls, and cheers as they moved out, with Drex getting into his personal vehicle and followed them, along with the other ones. As the trucks disappeared, the boys leaned their heads out from their hiding spot.
"Those guys are after the Watterson Family." Sonic said. "And what were talking about a human girl?"
"Ok, it's one thing to kidnap people, but killing them is just too far." Ben said. "And if there's one thing I don't like at all, it's people who kill people."
"Those monsters they got with them look pretty vicious." Ratchet said. "Clank, what were those things?"
"I do not know." Clank said. "I have never seen creatures like them before. Could they be from another galaxy?"
"Shadowkan." Sonic said. "They're those strange kaijin monsters from another dimension or something like that."
"Kaijin?" Ratchet asked.
"Humanoid monsters, tokusatsu warriors, demonic looking beasts, aliens and what not." Ben said.
"And you know all this because you faced monsters like that?" Jak asked.
"No, it's because I watch Power Rangers." Ben said. "It's the only japanese live-action show our country gets right... right?" Sonic, Jak, and Daxter gave a bit of meh.
"The Original Japanese ones are a bit better." Daxter said. "They include all the violence."
"Right..." Ben said.
"They said that they were Shadowkan." Jak said. "Me and Dax saw one of those monsters back in the Wasteland."
"What was it doing there?" Sonic asked.
"Not sure." Jak said. "It was causing some quakes. And it had an Eco Crystal."
"Eco Crystal?" Ben asked.
"Energy of the world, so to speak." Daxter said.
"Well, at least we know what we're up against... sort of." Ratchet said. Sonic stared down at the direction Hydra Force and the Shadowkan went. The others could see him clenching his hand tightly.
"Those guys already killed some of my friends." Sonic said. "No way I'm letting them kill even more of them." The blue hedgehog then turned his attention toward the boys.
"Are you guys ready for a test run?" He asked.
"Yeah, that's what I'm talking about." Ben said.
"You mean we have to fight against actual people?" Daxter asked. "And Monsters? And Mutants? Who are all willing to kill Us?!"
"Fine, let's bring it on." Jak said as he brought out his Macestaff, flinging it in his hand.
"Yeah, let's do this!" Ratchet said.
"So... what is the plan?" Clank asked. The blue hedgehog took a glance back at the direction the monsters left.
"Well, the good news is that they don't know we're here, so we got the element of surprise." Sonic said, and continued thinking. He then stared at Ben.
"Hey Ben, is there any chance Grey-Matter can get smaller?" Sonic asked.
"Not really." Ben said. "But there is another alien I can use that can get much smaller. Why?"
"You remember seeing Captain America: Civil War?" Sonic asked.
"Yeah, but what does that have to..." Ben said, but his eyes widened upon realization of what Sonic's plan was. "Ohhh, you mean?"
"Yep... we're gonna re-enact the Airport battle." Sonic said with a sly grin.
Just a little ways outside of Elmore, CJ and Lincoln were already near town, but they had to make a side trip to meet someone. The car turned into a long driveway near town, coming up to a house. The house was pretty small, all grey with a green roof, and a side garage right next to it. The car came to a halt, and both CJ and Lincoln exited the vehicle, their eyes upon the house.
"Is this the place?" Lincoln asked.
"According to the information, this is his house." CJ said.
"Wow, that's a small house." Lincoln said. In Lincoln's words, it was true. It was a small house. A lot smaller than Clyde's house and Ronnie Anne's flat. With him living in a big house in a big city as Great Lakes City, it was very rare of him to see small houses such as this one. Probably it's also because he was more used to living in a big house, especially since he had a big family.
"He must really love the peace and quiet." CJ said. "Not a house within a mile."
"Maybe since he's with the SPD, he probably wants to keep low profie." Lincoln said.
"I was beginning to wonder that too." CJ said as they approached the house.
"You sure we can trust this guy?" Lincoln asked.
"I trust him." CJ said. "He's one of the oldest and the best of the SPD years back, and he's an old friend of my father. Just whatever you do, don't stare."
"Why?" Lincoln asked.
"Just don't." CJ said as he knocked on the door. The door slowly opened, revealing a large white hairy humanoid yeti, though his appearance closely resembles a gorilla. Yep, it was Skips. He's the only yeti to wear blue jeans and a brown belt, with a huge structure around 6'7. He looked down to see the two.
"Hello Skips." CJ said.
"Hello." The yeti, Skips, said, his voice was deep and raspy, like an older Luke Skywalker. "If you guys are here to sell something to me, I'm not interested."
"No sir." CJ said. "My name is Jamiko Miyamoto of the SPD, the S-"
"Space Police Delta." Skips said. "Well I'll be damned, you're Ryu and Sakura's kid, right?"
"Yes." CJ said.
"Heh, I knew I'd recognize that hair from someone." Skips said. "Who's the kid with the chipped tooth?" CJ turned to see Lincoln, who had his mouth hung open with shock, staring right at Skips. Apparently while the boy tried not to, just seeing an actual yeti was enough to surprise him. CJ then snapped his fingers, getting the boy's attention.
"Oh, sorry." Lincoln said, realizing that he was staring. "Lincoln Loud... sir. Sorry, I've never seen a real life yeti before, especially in this climate."
"Well now you have." Skips said. "Anyway, you two better come in."
"Thanks." CJ said as Skips stood aside, then looked back at Lincoln.
"I am so sorry for staring by the way." Lincoln said.
"Dude, it's fine." CJ said. "I just said not to stare for shit and giggles." Giving a chuckle as he went inside, with the boy behind him rolling his eyes. As they went inside, the white-haired boy was surprised at what he was seeing. It was pretty empty, with only a bed, a TV, and an oven.
"Wow... uhhh... nice place." Lincoln said.
"Yeah, you'd get used to it." Skips said. "So, what do you boys want? I take it that the SPD wants me back, am I right?"
"Yes, Magnusson said that you'd be able to help us." CJ said.
"Eeeehhhh, I knew he couldn't keep me out of the fight." Skips said. "But for what?"
"We're dealing with a rogue terrorist group known as the Dark Phoenix." CJ said. "They're using kaijin monsters and artifacts to further their world domination goal."
"Hmmm... Kaijin you say?" Skips asked. "It's kinda surprising that humans are working with those monsters. Not even the Shadowkan would think twice to work with humans."
"The Shadowkan?" Lincoln asked. "Who are the Shadowkan?" CJ looked at the boy, then at Skips, who gave a sigh.
"The Shadowkan are demonic kaijin from the dark dimension." CJ said, summoning his tablet to display a hologram of various Shadowkan monsters in all shapes in sizes. "They travel across the multiverse to enslave and destroy the worlds that dwell within it. They were once led by Lord Destruction, who wants nothing but to take over the world, and that world is Earth. With his Shadowkan army, he will do so if nothing is done." Seeing the holograms and images, Lincoln was quite surprised by what he was seeing.
"Whoa..." Lincoln said. "Wait, you said, once led? You mean this... Lord Destruction is no more?"
"Pretty much." Skips said. "And five years ago, he was beaten... by him." The yeti pointed directly at CJ.
"Wait, you defeated him?" Lincoln asked. "When you were only 10?!"
"Eleven, actually." CJ said. "And yeah, I defeated him..." The white haired boy noticed a concern look on CJ's face, showing some uncertainty.
"You ok?" Lincoln asked.
"It's just that, even though I defeated him, I'm still unsure." CJ said. "He said that we would meet again, even though he exploded in pieces. Most of his army collapsed when he was destroyed, but there have been a handful that have survived. The SPD have been trying to round them up ever since. I just have this feeling that he will be back."
"I guess I can't blame you there." Lincoln said.
"Thanks." CJ said.
"Still, I can't believe the SPD needs me again." Skips said. "After fourteen years since we've disbanded, they actually want me back?"
"We?" Lincoln asked. With that, the yeti made his way to the garage door.
"Here, let me show you something." He said as he opened the door, stepping inside. The two followed suit, seeing some boxes stacked up, along with various objects inside, suxh as a Victorian-Era pram, a telescope, a ship wheel, an oil heater, and a synthesizer with the name Gary on it. Under a stack of boxes was a device called the Hologram 9000.
"Don't touch anything." Skips said as he flicked a switch, revealing a rectangular hole near the wall on the ground, opening up and revealing a large shelve of several weapons, such as blasters, swords, even a massive Cannon Gun, most likely his signature weapon. Next to it popped out a table, revealing medals, and photos.
"Wow." Lincoln said.
"I was with the SPD for years, especially with their special ops task force known as the A-Squad. Founded nearly thirty years ago, we worked together and took on several monsters and kaijin that threatened the whole universe. Kinda feel like the old days." CJ and Lincoln looked at the weapons and photos. While CJ was impressed, Lincoln couldn't help but smile.
"Cool." He said. His eyes then glanced forward at the photos, seeing one in particular, which showed several characters in battle gear. One of them was Skips, in which he had brown hair on top of his head. CJ recognized one of the men in particular, holding a Samurai sword. It was his own father, Ryu.
"Is that?" CJ asked.
"Yep, that's your father." Skips said. CJ was amazed to see the picture of his father. He was probably CJ's age around that time. The white-haired boy next to him could tell there was emotional stuff going on in his eyes.
"You ok?" He asked.
"Yeah..." CJ said. "It's been a long time since I've seen my father. He died when I was only three, along with my mother."
"Oh..." Lincoln said. "I'm sorry to hear that." The boy then glanced back at the photo, and noticed someone interesting. While he didn't recognize her, he noticed that the figure was not human. She was an anthropomorphic cat, with longer hair and dark blue eyes.
"Who's that?" Lincoln asked.
"That... is Nicole Watterson... one of the best of the SPD... and my old partner." Skips said. "Nicole joined it when she was only fifteen, right after she finished high school."
"She finished Highschool at age fifteen?" Lincoln asked. "That's amazing. Guess my sister Lisa's gonna have some competition to beat that score."
"Yeah, she was dealing with a lot of pressure from her parents." Skips said. "They were very snobby, working business people, forcing her to take extracurricular activities. In short, they were assholes. Sorry you had to hear me say that."
"It's cool." Lincoln said. "Everybody in my home curses once in a while, even my three year-old sister curses too."
"Hehe..." Skips gave a chuckle, but then returned to the topic. "As I was saying, they were pretty much why she ran away and joined up with us. She rose up the ranks and became one of the youngest members to become a lieutenant general. We all thought that she should take the General exam, but she decided against it, and letted Arne Magnusson take it. Still kinda wish she'd stay."
"Why'd she leave?" CJ asked.
"She had a kid, that's why." Nicole said. "Well, now she's got two... or three if you count the fish with legs."
"Fish with legs?" Lincoln asked.
"Trust me, Elmore may look like a simple town, but there are lots of extradinary things around." Skips said. "You should see the people I work with."
"So where is Nicole now?" CJ asked.
"She lives in town." Skips said. "She would come by once in a while to chat, but her job and her kids keep her pretty occupied, and into trouble."
"Trouble?" Lincoln asked. "Let me guess, her kids cause chaos once in a while, like damaging the house, causing trouble at school, and doing crazy antics for no reason?" The yeti stared at the boy, then looked at CJ.
"He has ten sisters." CJ said. "All of them with different unique traits."
"Is that why his hair is so white?" Skips asked.
"No, it's actually a genetic trait." Lincoln said. "Runs in my mom's side of the family."
"Ohhh..." Skips said. "But yeah, he kids do cause trouble once in a while, even when they don't intend to. However, some stuff happened last year and her oldest son has been dealing with depression. Though yesterday, Mordecai and Rigby told me he was in better spirits."
"Who?" Lincoln asked.
"Some of the guys I work with." Skips said.
"When did they last see them?" CJ asked.
"Mordo and Rigs saw them while they were out." Skips said. "They saw them both talking to some some pink haired girl. Probably his new girlfriend." Lincoln and CJ froze hearnig the words pink haired girl.
"Wait, did this pink haired girl also have green eyes?" Lincoln asked.
"From Mordecai and Rigby's description, yeah... Why?" Skips asked.
"She's someone we're looking for." CJ said. "The SPD has asked us to find her before the Dark Phoenix does."
"What does the Dark Phoenix want with some girl?" Skips asked.
"She's Franz Hopper's daughter." Lincoln said. The yeti looked at the boy, showing he didn't know what he was talking about. "Waldo Schaeffer? You never heard of Franz Hopper? He's a scientist he worked on Project Carthage in the field of quantom physics."
"Carthage?" Skips asked. "Yeah I've heard of it, but I don't know anyone named Schaeffer or Hopper. Nowadays the SPD doesn't tell me anything... The US devision, at least."
"Yeah, that's kinda odd." CJ said. "Anyway, we better find Nicole and talk to her son."
"We talk to her son, we find the girl." Lincoln said.
"We find the girl, we get her into safe hands." CJ said. Before they could say anymore, a ringing was heard from an old ITT 500BLK Cortelco Rotary Phone.
"What's that?" Lincoln asked.
"My phone, that's what." Skips said as he approached it.
"That's a phone?" Lincoln asked. "I've never seen anything like it."
"That's because you don't live a long time like I do." Skips said, who then answered the phone. "Hello?"
"Hey... Whaddup Skips?" Mordecai's voice is overheard. "You're not busy by any chance, aren't you?" Noticing the nervousity in the blue jay's voice, the yeti gave a sigh.
"Hey Mordecai." Skips said. "What did you guys do this time?"
"Uhhhh... well, funny you should mention that... um..." Mordecai said.
"Lemme tell him!" Rigby shouted.
"Rigby, quiet!" Mordecai shouted.
"Skips, You Gotta Help Us!" Rigby shouted. "Some crazy guys are after us!"
"What guys?" Skips asked.
"We don't know!" Mordecai shouted. "These dudes in weird suits were chasing after Gumball and his family, and some metal psycho with silver hair and a metal arm killed Benson!" Skips froze in place, his eyes widened a bit.
"What?" Skips asked.
"Uhhh, Benson's dead!" Rigby shouted. "Which isn't our fault by the way-"
"No No, the first part!" Skips said. "Some guys were chasing after the Wattersons?"
"Yeah, they had this weird symbol on their cars, and it looked like a Hydra's head!" Mordecai said.
"And they're being led by some crazy dude with white hair and some metal arm that turns into a sword and gun!" Rigby shouted. "He nearly sliced my forehead off!..."
"Drex Archo..." CJ said, getting the Yeti and Lincoln's attention.
"The leader of the Hydra Force?" Lincoln asked.
"The Dark Phoenix's Elite Troops." Skips said, then turned his attention back to the phone. "Where are you guys?"
"We're at an old warehouse up north!" Mordecai said.
"But they're gonna find us and kill us!" Rigby shouted. "Please Help Us Skips!"
"We're on our way!" Skips said. "You boys stay right there, ok?"
"Sure!" Mordecai said. "But please hurry!"
"Wait, who's we?" Rigby asked in the background as Skips hung up.
"Wattersons?" CJ asked. "That's who the Hydra Force are after?"
"They were the family that had Hopper's daughter in their home!" Lincoln said.
"Then We better go help them out." Skips said as he went to the shelves to grab some gear. But then CJ's own cellphone began ringing about. The Japanese boy answered it.
"Hello?" CJ asked.
"Hey CJ, you there?" Sonic asked.
"Sonic." CJ said. "Yeah, I'm here."
"Dude, is that really him?!" Lincoln's asked.
"Yeah, that's him." CJ said.
"I take it that's your partner." Sonic said.
"Sure is." CJ said. "Anyway, where are you guys?"
"Well, where are you?" Sonic asked.
"At an old friend's house." CJ said. "Real close to Elmore. What about you?"
"We're just leaving the school's football stadium." Sonic said. "Those Phoenix dudes Magnusson told me about. They were here."
"You saw them?" CJ asked.
"Yeah, and they got some help." Sonic said. "From those Shadow Monsters. I've sent you a picture of them. Did you get it?" Looking at his phone, he saw the message icon.
"Yeah, I got it." CJ said, clicking on the message icon, then it displayed the herde of Shadowkan, consisting of Silkoid, Lionzer, Reaper Robot, Feather-Shadow, Gorgon, Raptor Sniper, Gray-Man, Sepultura, Heliotoid, Behemoth, and General Voidus. Lincoln's eyes widened a bit upon seeing the picture.
"Whoa..." He said. "Are those...?"
"Yep." CJ said, recognizing most of them, including one with the battle sword. "Looks like Hydra Force got help from General Voidus. The right hand man of Lord Destruction."
"And that's his crew?" Lincoln asked.
"Uh-Huh." CJ said. "Doesn't make sense though. The Shadowkan don't usually work with humans."
"You did kill their leader, so they might be getting desparate." Lincoln said.
"The Shadowkan working with the Dark Phoenix?" Skips asked. "That means something is up, and it's not good."
"They're also after a family I know." Sonic said. "They said they're gonna capture Gumball and some girl, and kill the others. We have to stop them."
"Where are they headed?" CJ asked.
"At an abandoned warehouse just outside the town up north." Sonic said.
"Alright, you follow them, and do not engage them until we get there." CJ said.
"Dude, I'm not risking waiting around so they can kill them." Sonic said. "I need to help them." CJ sighed. He was hoping Sonic wouldn't jump right into action. But considering the family are Sonic's friends, he doesn't want them killed.
"Ok, stall them until we get there, alright?" CJ asked.
"You got it man." Sonic said. The message ended.
"I'm surprised you got the blue hedgehog to agree to help you out." Skips said.
"It was a bit difficult, but he agreed." CJ said.
"So, what's the plan?" Lincoln asked.
"Good news is, Hydra Force doesn't know about us, so we got the advantage." CJ said.
"We better head there now." Skips said, taking a massive weapon with him. He then made his way to open the garage.
"So... this is where the fun begins." Lincoln said.
"That's right." CJ said. "We're going to do a test run. Oh, and I almost forgot." Taking his bag, he pulled out a case, and tossed it to Lincoln. "Put it on." Confused, the boy opened the box, and his eyes widened a bit.
"Is this for me?" Lincoln asked.
"Actually, it's SPD property, but it'll suit you." CJ said with a wink. Lincoln looked back into the box, and pulled out the cosmetic. He then placed it on his head, with the visor beginning to glow.
"Let's do this." He said.
0.5!
Well, that's the end of this chapter! We're just one more step... or half a step away from finally bringing everybody together!
Hydra Force recruiting General Voidus and his crew is heavily based on the scene from Transformers: The Last Knight, where the TRF (Transformers Reaction Force) recruit Megatron and his Decepticons to hunt down Cade and the Autobots. The Shadowkan themselves have been given some personality for comical relief.
The dialogue and written text for their introductions were intentional, so bear with me.
Oh, and Shelia is my grandmother's name (from my mom's side). Great woman.
So anyway, we're almost there...
Also, a huge thanks to Kainsword-Kaijin, who created and designed the Shadowkan!
